Studies on the antiplatelet effect of the stable epoprostenol analogue beraprost sodium and its mechanism of action in rats

Baraprost sodium (sodium (+/-)-(1R*,2R*,3aS*,8bS*)-2,3,3a.8b- tetrahydro-2-hydroxy-1-[(E)-(3S*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-1-octen-6- 1H-cyclopenta[b]benzo-furan-5-butyrate, TRK-100) is a novel stable epoprostenol (prostaglandin I2, PGI2) analogue having antiplatelet and vasodilating actions. Its effect on platelet aggregation in whole blood ex vivo and platelet suspension in vitro, formation of cyclic AMP(cAMP), production of malondialdehyde(MDA), and 45Ca++-influx into platelets were studied in rats. Oral administration of TRK-100 (0.3-1 mg/kg) showed a dose-dependent inhibition of platelet aggregation induced by ADP and collagen in whole blood and also inhibited in vitro thrombin-induced aggregation of platelet suspension in the presence or absence of external Ca++. Oral TRK-100 (0.3-3 mg/kg) dose-dependently increased plasma cAMP levels and this action was confirmed in vitro with platelet rich plasma in the presence or absence of theophylline. 45Ca++-influx into platelets stimulated by thrombin was dose-dependently inhibited by TRK-100 (3-100 nmol/l). TRK-100 (3-100 nmol/l) also suppressed MDA production induced by thrombin in platelet suspension but not that induced by arachidonic acid. From these results, TRK-100 which is orally active was suggested to exert its antiplatelet action through the increase of cAMP in platelets by activation of adenylate cyclase, concomitantly followed by the inhibition of Ca++-influx and thromboxane A2 formation.     

Effect of beraprost sodium on peripheral circulatory disturbances induced by various stimuli

Effects of beraprost sodium (sodium(+/-)-(1R*,2R*,3aS*,8bS*)-2,3,3a,8b-tetrahydro-2-hydr oxy-1- [(E)-(3S*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-octen-6-ynyl]-1H-cyclopenta[b] benzofuran- 5-butyrate, TRK-100), a stable prostacyclin analogue, on the peripheral circulatory disturbances induced by various vasoconstrictive stimuli were studied. Orally administered beraprost sodium (10, 30 micrograms/kg) caused increase in skin blood flow in anesthetized rats and rise in skin temperature in conscious rats. Intravenously administered beraprost sodium (0.01-0.3 microgram/kg) reduced the recovery time of decreased pulse pressure by topical cooling of the leg in anesthetized rats. In conscious rabbits, intravenous infusion of beraprost sodium (10 micrograms/kg/min) inhibited the fluctuation of ear artery diameter, and dilated the ear artery and vein, resulting in a rise in the ear temperature. In anesthetized dogs, intravenously administered beraprost sodium (0.313-5 micrograms/kg) caused decrease in femoral blood flow and muscle blood flow in the hindlimb, however, it caused increase in skin blood flow at the hind leg instep. Furthermore, intra-arterially administered beraprost sodium (0.1-0.3 microgram/kg/min) under stimulation of lumbar sympathetic nerve caused increase in femoral artery blood flow and selective increase in the skin blood flow without affecting muscle blood flow.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Effect of a stable prostacyclin analogue on platelet function and experimentally-induced thrombosis in the microcirculation

Sodium dl-4-[1R,2R,3aS,8bS)-1,2,3a,8b-tetrahydro- 2-hydroxy-1-[(3S,4RS)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-oct-6- yne-(E)-1-enyl]-5-cyclopenta[b]benzofuranyl]butyrate (TRK-100) is a stable analogue of prostacyclin (epoprostenol, PGI2). The drug was shown to be a potent inhibitor of platelet aggregation in vitro, induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP), using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from human and several animal species. The inhibitory activity of TRK-100 using human platelets was half that of PGI2 and eight times that of PGE1. There was a marked tendency for platelet clumps to disaggregate following secondary aggregation in the presence of TRK-100 at final concentrations higher than 1 ng/ml. This activity was similar to PGI2 and more than 30 times that of PGE1. TRK-100 was shown to induce the disaggregation of a pre-existing thrombus in the microcirculation of the hamster cheek pouch. A dose-dependent response was obtained following oral administration of the drug at levels of 50-200 micrograms/kg. Optimal activity was observed 30-60 min after dosing and activity was sustained throughout the experimental period. TRK-100 was more active than PGE1 in the test system and appeared to be of a similar potency to PGI2. Since this drug is stable, orally active and without the hypotensive activity of PGI2, it is considered to be a potentially useful agent for antithrombotic therapy.     

Vasodilator actions of TRK-100, a new prostaglandin I2 analogue.

TRK-100, a stable analogue of prostaglandin I2 (PGI2), relaxed isolated arteries of the dog precontracted with PGF2 alpha or K+; the relaxation was in the order of mesenteric and renal greater than coronary and femoral greater than basilar and middle cerebral arteries. The relaxation by TRK-100 was not affected by treatment with atropine, propranolol, cimetidine, aminophylline, and indomethacin, but was suppressed by diphloretin phosphate, a prostaglandin antagonist. Treatment with TRK-100 attenuated the contraction induced by PGF2 alpha and Ca2+ in mesenteric and basilar arteries previously exposed to Ca2+-free medium, but did not significantly alter the contractile response to Ca2+ in the arteries exposed to Ca2+-free medium and depolarized by excess K+. TRK-100 and nitroglycerin relaxed isolated mesenteric arteries to a similar extent; however, when continuously infused into mesenteric arteries in anaesthetized dogs, TRK-100 produced greater vasodilatation than nitroglycerin. It is concluded that TRK-100 relaxes dog mesenteric and renal arteries more than cerebral arteries; the relaxation appears to derive from interference with the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and with the transmembrane Ca2+ influx through a receptor-operated channel. TRK-100 may vasodilate large and small mesenteric arteries and resistance vessels to a similar extent, whereas nitroglycerin preferentially dilates the large artery.     

Antithrombotic effect of TRK-100, a novel, stable PGI2 analogue

TRK-100, a stable PGI2 analogue structurally different from carbacyclines, was compared with other antiplatelet drugs for its effect on platelet functions using animal models. TRK-100 (10-300 nM) inhibited rat platelet aggregation induced by ADP (3 microM), collagen (12.5 micrograms/ml) and A23187 (10 microM), and its potency was about 1/3-1/7 that of PGI2. TRK-100 (0.3-3 mg/kg, p.o.) dose-dependently inhibited rabbit platelet adhesion (ED50: 2.2 mg/kg), and its effect lasted over at least 5 hr. In contrast, aspirin and ticlopidine (both at 300 mg/kg, p.o.) showed only a slight inhibition (4-7%). In the thrombocytopenia induced by collagen injection in rats, TRK-100 (3-300 micrograms/kg, i.v.; 0.1-3 mg/kg, p.o.) dose-dependently inhibited a decrease in platelet number, and its ED50 was 0.48-0.62 mg/kg orally and 13.7-16.4 micrograms/kg intravenously, while the inhibition by aspirin and ticlopidine (both at 1000 mg/kg, p.o.) was 40 and 37%, respectively. In the experimental thread thrombosis in rats. TRK-100 (0.03-3 mg/kg, p.o.) dose-dependently inhibited thrombus formation, and its ED50 was 0.46 mg/kg, being 21 and 87 times as potent as aspirin and ticlopidine, respectively. These results reveal that TRK-100 has a potent antiplatelet activity and is orally and intravenously effective for a variety of thrombosis models, suggesting that it may have a therapeutic value as an antithrombotic drug.     

General pharmacology of beraprost sodium. 2nd communication: effect on the autonomic, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems, and other effects

Beraprost sodium (sodium (+/-)-(1R*,2R*,3as*,8bS*)-2,3,3a,8b-tetrahydro-2- hydroxy-1-[(E)-(3S*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-1-octen-6-ynyl]-1H- cyclopenta[b]benzofuran-5-butyrate, TRK-100) is an orally active epoprostenol (prostaglandin I2, PGI2) analogue. Its general pharmacological effects on peripheral organs were studied. 1. In isolated organs, beraprost sodium relaxed the trachea and increased atrial beating rate (2.4 x 10(-5) mol/l). It also dose-dependently contracted the stomach, aorta, ileum and uterus (2.4 x 10(-7)-2.4 x 10(-4) mol/l). These effects of beraprost sodium were similar, but inferior to those of PGI2 and PGE1. 2. Intravenous administration of beraprost sodium produced a dose-related decrease in blood pressure (BP), its potency being about 1/3 times that of PGI2 in anesthetized rats and dogs. Beraprost sodium and PGI2 had no effects on heart rate (HR), and enhanced respiration in conjugation with a decrease in BP. Oral administration of beraprost sodium in high doses (1-3 mg/kg in rats and 0.3 mg/kg in dogs) caused a decrease in BP. A compensatory tachycardia and an elevated plasma renin activity (PRA) occurred after low doses (0.1-0.3 mg/kg) in rats. In contrast, a change of HR and PRA in rabbits and dogs was mild. 3. Beraprost sodium produced suppression of digestive organs: markedly, gastric motility and secretion and intestinal transport; slightly, but significantly, biliary secretion. On the other hand, it enhanced ileal motility at a high dose (300 micrograms/kg i.v.). 4. Oral administration of beraprost sodium caused a decrease in urinary volume and electrolyte excretion in rats. 5. Oral administration of beraprost sodium prolonged bleeding time in mice, while it had no effect on the blood coagulation system in vitro. In addition, beraprost sodium had no hemolytic action. 6. The other effects of beraprost sodium were weak. Beraprost sodium had no local anesthetic activity and no effect on salivation, pupil size and neuromuscular transmission in the skeletal muscle. Beraprost sodium slightly contracted the uterus of non-pregnant rats in situ and dose-independently inhibited carrageenin-induced paw edema. In conclusion, beraprost sodium produced various effects on the autonomic, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems. Probably, these effects may be based on its own action like PGI2.     

Effect of beraprost sodium on peripheral circulation insufficiency in rats and rabbits

Beraprost sodium (sodium (+/-)-(1R*,2R*,3aS*,8bS*)-2,3,3a,8b-tetrahydro-2- hydroxy-1-[(E)-(3S*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-1-octen-6-ynyl]-1H- cyclopenta[b]benzofuran-5-butyrate, TRK-100) is a chemically and biologically stable epoprostenol analogue which possesses both potent antiplatelet and peripheral vasodilating actions. Its effect on obstruction of the peripheral artery was studied in three different models: 1. acute thrombosis induced by electrical-stimulation of the femoral artery in rabbits, 2. occlusion induced by intra-arterial injection of sodium laurate in rats and 3. tail gangrene induced by subcutaneous injections of both ergotamine and epinephrine in rats. Oral administration of beraprost sodium resulted in suppression of thrombus formation in the acute thrombosis model, marked improvement of macroscopic and histological observations in the laurate-occlusion model and inhibition of tail gangrene extension. In contrast, ticlopidine improved thrombus formation in the acute thrombosis model and slightly improved histological observation in the laurate-occlusion model, but not in the tail gangrene model. Cilostazol suppressed lesions in the acute thrombosis model, but not in the tail gangrene model. These findings suggest that beraprost sodium may be very useful clinically for the therapy of peripheral circulation insufficiency diseases such as Buerger's disease and Raynaud's disease.     

Specific binding of the new stable epoprostenol analogue beraprost sodium to prostacyclin receptors on human and rat platelets

Binding of beraprost sodium (sodium dl-4-[(1R,2R,3aS,8bS)-1,2,3a,8b-tetrahydro-2-hydroxy-1-[(3S, 4RS)- 3-hydroxy-4-methyl-oct-6-yne-(E)-1-enyl] -5- cyclopenta[b]benzofuranyl]butyrate, TRK-100), a new potent antithrombotic agent, to washed platelets of humans and rats was studied. [11-3H]-TRK-100 binding was rapid, reversible, saturable, and highly specific. Scatchard analysis of concentration-dependent binding to human platelets revealed a single class of specific binding sites with an equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) of 133 nmol/l and a maximal concentration of binding sites (Bmax) of 46 fmol/10(8) platelets (275 sites/cell). Similar binding was observed on rat platelets. The Kd and Bmax were 66 nmol/l and 124 fmol/10(8) platelets (750 sites/cell), respectively. Competitive studies indicated that TRK-100 was 1.5 times less active than prostacyclin (epoprostenol, PGI2), but was 3 times more potent than PGE1 in displacing [3H]-TRK-100 from the binding sites on rat platelets. PGE2, PGD2, PGF2 alpha, and pinane thromboxane A2, a stable thromboxane A2 analogoue, had no affinity for the binding sites. The relative affinity of the four enantiomers of TRK-100--APS-314d, 315d, 3141 and 3151--for the binding sites was 100: 14: less than 1: less than 1, respectively. These results suggest that TRK-100 is a useful tool for studying biological roles of PGI2 as well as for use as an antithrombotic agent since TRK-100 mimics its actions via specific interaction with PGI2 receptors.     

General pharmacology of beraprost sodium. 1st communication: effect on the central nervous system

Beraprost sodium (sodium (+/-)-(1R*,2R*,3aS*,8bS*)-2,3,3a,8b-tetrahydro-2- hydroxy-1-[(E)-(3S*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-1-octen-6-ynyl]-1H- cyclopenta[b]benzofuran-5-butyrate, TRK-100) is an orally active epoprostenol (prostaglandin I2, PGI2) analogue. Its effect on the central nervous system (CNS) was studied. 1. When orally administered in mice, beraprost sodium at 0.3 mg/kg caused a flush of skin, a suppression of spontaneous motility, and a fall of body temperature. At 1 mg/kg and more, it showed obvious sedation, prolongation of hexobarbital hypnosis, and analgesic action in acetic acid-induced writhing test. However, even at 3 mg/kg beraprost sodium neither induced ataxia nor had anticonvulsant activity. Hypothermia was also observed in rabbits at 1 mg/kg (p.o. and i.v.). 2. When intravenously administered, beraprost sodium exerted long-lasting action on the CNS, while its pharmacological effects resembled those of PGI2. 3. Oral administration of beraprost sodium did not inhibit aggregation toxicity induced by methamphetamine (20 mg/kg i.p.) in mice. Beraprost sodium at doses higher than 1 mg/kg enhanced aggregation toxicity induced by methamphetamine (5 mg/kg i.p.), while intracerebral ventricular administration of beraprost sodium failed to enhance it. 4. In rat spinal reflex, intravenous administration of beraprost sodium (0.1 mg/kg) slightly enhanced monosynaptic reflex and at a high dose (1 mg/kg) suppressed polysynaptic reflex. 5. In the rabbit EEG, intravenous administration of beraprost sodium at a high dose (1 mg/kg) showed some effects such as the continuous pattern of wakefulness and a fall in power of the EEG.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Effects of enprostil on cardiovascular and respiratory parameters in the dog, and on hematologic parameters in the rat, monkey, and human

The effects of enprostil (+/-)-7-[(1R*,2R*,3R*)-3-hydroxy-2-[(E)-(3R*)-3-hydroxy-4-phenoxy-1- butenyl]-5-oxocyclopentyl]-4,5-heptadienoate) were studied on cardiovascular and respiratory parameters in the dog and on hematologic parameters in the rat, monkey, and human. Anesthetized dogs were instrumented to allow measurement of heart rate, systemic blood pressure, respiratory rate or tracheal pressure, and ventricular contractile force after intragastric (i.g.) or intravenous (i.v.) administration of enprostil in the presence or absence of autonomic challenges. The effects of intraduodenal (i.d.) enprostil on arterial and venous PO2, PCO2, and pH; respiratory rate, flow rate, and volume; blood pressure (b.p.); and heart rate were also examined. Enprostil i.v. (0.3-10 micrograms/kg) significantly increased tracheal pressure in a dose-dependent manner, but minimally altered b.p., heart rate, and ventricular contractile force. Enprostil i.v. (1-10 micrograms/kg) significantly inhibited pressor and depressor responses to several autonomic challenge agents at the highest dose level, indicative of a nonspecific inhibitory effect on b.p. responses. Cardiovascular effects of enprostil (1-100 micrograms/kg i.g.) were absent. Enprostil (10-3,000 micrograms/kg i.d.) had no noteworthy effects on respiratory parameters in the dog. Platelet aggregation effects of enprostil were studied in vitro using platelet rich plasma (PRP) from the rat, monkey, and human; whole blood clotting time and prothrombin time after oral enprostil were studied in the rat; and ex vivo effects on platelet activation were studied in humans.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

The in vitro and ex vivo antiplatelet effect of TRK-100, a stable prostacyclin analog, in several species

Effect of TRK-100, a stable PGI2 analog, on platelet function was tested in vitro and ex vivo. TRK-100 at the dose range of 0.5-300 nM inhibited platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid, adenosine 5'-diphosphate and collagen in several species including human platelets. The potency of TRK-100 was 1/2 to 1/5 that of PGI2. The effect was strong in human and cat platelets. In conscious rabbits and rats, oral TRK-100 at the dose range of 0.1-1 mg/kg inhibited ex vivo platelet aggregation up to 80% in the rat and 70% in the rabbit, and the effect lasted over 5 hr. However, in both species, the effect on blood pressure was minimal. In anesthetized rabbits, inhibition of platelet aggregation was the same level as in the conscious animal, but blood pressure depression was observed. Cyclic AMP levels of human platelets, 2 min after incubation, was elevated up to 2.4 microM/10(9) platelets by 100 ng/ml of PGI2 and 1.5 microM by 100 ng/ml of TRK-100. It was shown that TRK-100 has a potent antiplatelet effect both in vitro and ex vivo in many species through elevation of platelet cAMP. These results suggest that TRK-100 may be a potential oral antithrombotic drug.     

L-649,923: an antagonist of cardiac and vascular leukotriene D4 receptors

The capacity of L-649,923--sodium (beta S, gamma R*)-4-(3-(4-acetyl-3-hydroxy-2-propylphenoxy)-propylthio)-ga mma- hydroxy-beta-methylbenzene butanoate--to block vascular receptors of leukotriene D4 (LTD4) was examined in the conscious rat. Hindquarter (HQ), renal, and mesenteric blood flow and vascular resistance were evaluated in the conscious rat chronically equipped with miniaturized Doppler probes for organ blood flow measurement by directional pulsed Doppler technique. In addition, cardiac output was measured by thermodilution technique in conscious rats equipped with minithermistors in the ascending aorta. Systemic hemodynamic variables, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate were monitored through femoral catheters. LTD4 (1 or 10 micrograms/kg) produced a marked dose dependent increase in the mesenteric vascular resistance associated with a marked decrease in blood flow whereas no consistent effects were demonstrated in the renal circulation. LTD4, at 1 microgram/kg, increased the HQ blood flow whereas the higher dose of LTD4 produced a biphasic response: an early increase followed by a decrease in blood flow. Infusion of LTD4, 3 micrograms/kg per min over 10 min decreased cardiac output and increased total peripheral resistance. L-649,923 (10 or 30 mg/kg, i.v.) effectively blocked the LTD4-induced mesenteric constriction and the second phase of HQ vasoconstriction but did not modify the LTD4 induced HQ vasodilation. L-649,923 also effectively attenuated the cardiac effects of LTD4 infusion. These studies suggest that L-649,923 could preserve cardiac and vascular functions in pathologic states mediated by cysteinyl leukotrienes, such as traumatic or endotoxin shock.     

The selective carotid arterial vasoconstrictor action of GR43175 in anaesthetized dogs

1. GR43175 is a highly selective agonist at 5-HT1-like receptors in the dog saphenous vein. This study describes the haemodynamic effects of GR43175 in barbitone-anaesthetized dogs. 2. GR43175 (1-1000 micrograms kg-1, i.v.) produced dose-dependent decreases in carotid arterial blood flow with little or no change in arterial blood pressure. The decrease in blood flow was associated with an increase in carotid arterial vascular resistance. In preliminary studies, the dose of GR43175 producing 50% of the maximum carotid vasoconstrictor response was 39 +/- 8 micrograms kg-1, i.v. 3. In comparative regional haemodynamic studies, GR43175 (1-1000 micrograms kg-1, i.v.) had little effect on total peripheral resistance or resistance in the mesenteric, vertebral and coronary arterial vascular beds. Low doses of GR43175 decreased, whilst high doses (100 micrograms kg-1, i.v. and above) increased femoral arterial vascular resistance. GR43175 (1-1000 micrograms kg-1, i.v.) had no effect on respiratory inflation pressure. In doses of 100 micrograms kg-1 i.v. and above, GR43175 caused small decreases in heart rate. 4. The carotid arterial vasoconstrictor action of GR43175 was resistant to antagonism by the 5-HT2 receptor, 5-HT3 receptor and alpha-adrenoceptor blocking drugs, ketanserin, MDL72222 and phentolamine respectively, but could be antagonized by the non-selective 5-HT1-like receptor blocking drug methiothepin. Methiothepin had no effect on the carotid vasoconstrictor action of the thromboxane A2 mimetic, U46619. 5. The results demonstrate that GR43175 produces a selective vasoconstriction in the carotid arterial circulation of anaesthetized dogs via activation of 5-HT1-like receptors, which appear similar to those mediating contraction of the dog isolated saphenous vein.     

Renal effects of specific antagonists of arginine vasopressin in dogs.

To investigate the effects on renal hemodynamics of specific antagonists of arginine vasopressin (AVP), CGP 29325 (d(CH2)5-D-Tyr(Et)VAVP), which has both anti-vasopressor and anti-antidiuretic activities against AVP, and CGP 25838E (d(CH2)5-Tyr(Me)AVP), which has only anti-vasopressor activity, were administered to normally hydrated anesthetized dogs, and the effects on renal function were examined. The pressor response and constriction of renal and mesenteric arteries induced by AVP were dose-dependently blocked by intravenous CGP 25838E. Following intrarenal arterial administration (i.r.a.) of CGP 29325 at 3 micrograms/min, water diuresis occurred and urine osmolality (UOsm) decreased to less than 250 mOsm/kg. Renal blood flow (RBF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and urinary sodium excretion (UNaV) remained unchanged. A higher dose (10 micrograms/min, i.r.a.) of CGP 29325 further decreased UOsm to about 110 mOsm/kg. Although arterial blood pressure (BP), GFR and UNaV remained unchanged, RBF decreased from the control value 3.7 +/- 0.35 to 2.4 +/- 0.40 ml/g.min. CGP 25838E (10 micrograms/min, i.r.a.) had no effect on renal hemodynamics and urine formation. When administered into the mesenteric artery, CGP 25838E (10 micrograms/min) increased mesenteric blood flow (MBF) from 199 +/- 34 to 240 +/- 40 ml/min without any alteration in blood pressure. We tentatively conclude that CGP 29325, at a lower dose, exerted anti-antidiuretic effects through a specific inhibition of V2 receptors, while the higher dose of CGP 29325 altered RBF, through yet to be determined mechanisms. The vasoconstrictive activity of AVP may contribute to the regulation of mesenteric circulation, but not to renal hemodynamics, in anesthetized dogs.     

Modulation of eicosanoid-induced contraction of mouse and rat blood vessels by gingerols

The effects of the active principles of crude ginger (a traditional Sino-Japanese medicine), the gingerols, on the contractile responses to eicosanoids were compared using isolated mouse and rat blood vessels. Leukotrienes (LT) C4 and D4, a thromboxane (TX) A2 derivative (U-46619), prostaglandins (PG) F2 alpha, PGI2-Na, PGE2, the stable PGI2 derivative TRK-100, and PGD2 induced contraction in longitudinal segments of mouse mesenteric veins in that order of potency. Exogenous arachidonic acid and PGE1 did not cause contraction. The mesenteric veins also contracted in response to noradrenaline (NA) and phenylephrine (PhE), but not to clonidine. The gingerols alone relaxed the muscle transiently and then augmented the response to PGF2 alpha, PGE2, PGI2-Na, and TRK-100, but suppressed the response to PGD2, U-46619, LTC4, LTD4, NA and PhE. (+/-)-[6]-Gingerol also potentiated the PGF2 alpha-induced contraction in longitudinal segments of rat mesenteric vein and vena cava, but inhibited it in circular segments of rat aorta and longitudinal segments of mouse mesenteric arteries. These results showed that (+/-)-[6]- and (+/-)-[8]-gingerols potentiated the contraction induced by prostanoids (except PGD2) and inhibited that produced by PGD2, TXA2, and LT, suggesting the modulation of eicosanoids-induced responses by (+/-)-[6]- or (+/-)-[8]-gingerol.     

Similarity and dissimilarity of the vasoconstrictor effects of Bay K 8644 on coronary, femoral, mesenteric and renal circulations of dogs.

The effect of the dihydropyridine calcium agonist Bay K 8644 on the coronary, femoral, mesenteric and renal circulations was investigated and compared with that of noradrenaline in pentobarbitone-anaesthetized dogs. The left anterior descending coronary, femoral, cranial mesenteric and renal arteries were cannulated and their arterial beds perfused with autologous blood at a constant pressure slightly higher than the mean systemic arterial blood pressure. Bay K 8644 (0.1-300 nmol) and noradrenaline (0.1-300 nmol) were injected intra-arterially. Bay K 8644 decreased blood flow (vasoconstriction) in all 4 arterial beds. A maximum decrease was attained at 100 nmol and a further increase in dose did not appear to result in a further decrease in blood flow. At maximum effects blood flow decreased to about 35% of the basal value in coronary, 30% in femoral, 20% in renal and 15% in mesenteric circulation. Normalized ED50 values (ED50 divided by basal flow) of Bay K 8644 were 0.07 +/- 0.02 nmol in the femoral, 0.08 +/- 0.01 nmol in the coronary, 0.16 +/- 0.06 nmol in the mesenteric and 0.55 +/- 0.19 nmol in the renal circulation. At 100 nmol, the values for the half-duration of Bay K 8644 vasoconstrictor effects were about 196 s in the renal, 78 s in the mesenteric, 84 s in the femoral and 21 s in the coronary circulation. Noradrenaline produced a dose-dependent decrease in blood flow in femoral, mesenteric and renal circulations, and was about 2 times in femoral, 4 times in mesenteric and 9 times in renal circulation more potent than Bay K 8644.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Renal hemodynamic effects of nonhypotensive doses of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in hypertension and heart failure rats.

Both circulating and local renin-angiotensin systems (RAS) may contribute to cardiovascular homeostasis under normal and pathophysiologic conditions. They may also play a role in the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. In the present study, we compared systemic and regional hemodynamic effects of nonhypotensive doses of captopril and enalaprilate in normal rats, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and rats with heart failure due to myocardial infarction (MI). Enalaprilate (0.1 mg/kg) or captopril (3 mg/kg) was injected intravenously (i.v.) in conscious rats equipped with miniature Doppler flow probes on renal and mesenteric artery and abdominal aorta or an electromagnetic flow probe on the ascending aorta to measure cardiac output (CO). This resulted in a shift of the angiotensin-I (ANG I) dose-pressor curve (ED50 of ANG I after saline 0.21 +/- 0.33 micrograms, enalaprilate 1.45 +/- 0.26 micrograms, captopril 2.38 +/- 0.73 micrograms; mean +/- SEM; n = 6-12). In the systemic hemodynamic groups, no significant changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP), CO, or total peripheral resistance (TPR) were observed. In the regional hemodynamic groups, enalaprilate caused a slight (-8 +/- 1 mm Hg) reduction in MAP in normal rats. Resistance in the hindquarters was not affected by ACE inhibitors, whereas only enalaprilate reduced mesenteric resistance in MI rats. In contrast, renal resistance was reduced and renal blood flow (RBF) increased after captopril in normal and MI rats and after enalaprilate in MI rats. Effects were greatest in MI rats (RBF: saline -0.05 +/- 1.9%, enalaprilate 10.3 +/- 2.4%, captopril 10.1 +/- 2.0%).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Pharmacological studies of a newly synthetized 1,4-dihydropyridine derivative, 2,6-dimethyl-3,5-dimethoxycarbonyl-4- (o-difluoromethoxyphenyl)-1,4-dihydropyridine (PP-1466)

Hemodynamic effects of a new 1,4-dihydropyridine derivative, 2,6-dimethyl-3,5-dimethoxycarbonyl-4-(o-difluoromethoxyphenyl++ +)-1,4-dihydropyridine (PP-1466), were examined by measuring systemic blood pressure, various arterial blood flow such as femoral, vertebral, renal and superior mesenteric artery, heart rate and respiratory rate in anesthetized dogs. Cardiohemodynamic effects were examined by measuring cardiac output, coronary blood flow, maximal rate of rise of left ventricular pressure (dp/dt max.) and right atrial pressure. The changes in myocardial oxygen consumption associated with the parameters mentioned above were also examined by measuring coronary sinus outflow and oxygen content in blood samples. The results obtained are as follows: The intraarterial administration of PP-1466 to the femoral artery caused vasodilating response. The vasodilating effect of PP-1466 was approximately 200 times more potent than that of papaverine and comparable to that of nifedipine or nicardipine (YC-93). The effective dose to induce vasodilation on femoral, vertebral and superior mesenteric artery by the systemic use of PP-1466 was more than 0.3 microgram/kg i.v. and more than 0.03 mg/kg i.d. The vasodilation in vertebral artery was most prominent. After intravenous administration of PP-1466, renal blood flow decreased probably due to the fall in systemic blood pressure, whereas the flow progressively increased after intraduodenal administration. The effective dose to induce a fall in systemic blood pressure by PP-1466 was the range from 1 to 3 micrograms/kg i.v. and more than 0.1 mg/kg i.d., respectively. Diastolic hypotension was remarkable. Heart rate and respiratory rate were increased at the same time.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

The antiarrhythmic effects of the nucleoside transporter inhibitor,R75231, in anaesthetized pigs.

1. The effect of R75231, an inhibitor of purine nucleoside transport, were examined on ischaemic arrhythmias in anaesthetized pigs. 2. In closed chest pigs (n = 4), R75231 exerted a moderate dose-dependent decrease in mean arterial blood pressure (from 97 +/- 4 mmHg to 95 +/- 4, 90 +/- 1 and 83 +/- 2 mmHg at 25, 50 and 100 micrograms kg-1 respectively) and produced a dose-related shift to the left of the blood pressure dose-response curve to intravenous bolus doses of adenosine. The degree of inhibition of adenosine uptake by R75231, assessed ex vivo in erythrocyte suspensions, was 43 +/- 5%, 64 +/- 13 and 114 +/- 15% at doses of 25, 50 and 100 micrograms kg-1 respectively. 3. In open chest pigs, intravenous injection of R75231 (50 micrograms kg-1; n = 6 and 100 micrograms kg-1; n = 10) induced a dose-related decrease in both systolic and diastolic arterial blood pressure which was more marked than in closed-chest pigs (mean pressure 86 +/- 4 to 70 +/- 2 mmHg and 88 +/- 6 to 60 +/- 6 mmHg with 50 and 100 micrograms kg-1 respectively), without affecting heart rate or myocardial contractility. Coronary artery occlusion in these pigs caused a secondary decrease in blood pressure. This was not observed in controls (n = 10). The lower dose of R75231 did not exert any antifibrillatory effects, whereas the higher dose significantly reduced the incidence of ventricular fibrillation, from 80% in control pigs to 30%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Vasorelaxant effect of taurine is diminished by tetraethylammonium in rat isolated arteries

Although the vasorelaxant effects of taurine have been studied in rabbit ear artery, rat isolated aorta and mesenteric artery, its pharmacological properties in other vascular beds and underlying mechanism(s) are still not well clarified. The present study was designed to observe the effects of taurine on the contractions induced by depolarization and phenylephrine in rat isolated aortic, renal and mesenteric arterial rings, and to get an insight into its mechanism(s). Arterial rings were suspended in organ baths and tension was recorded isometrically. Taurine 20-80 mM produced concentration-dependent relaxations of rat isolated aortic rings precontracted by 30 mM potassium chloride and 1 microM phenylephrine; the maximal relaxation was 17.17+/-3.18% and 22.23+/-1.83% respectively. The relaxation was not affected by 0.1 mM NG-nitro-L-arginine methylester ester (a nitric oxide synthetase inhibitor), 10 microM indomethacin (a cyclooxygenase inhibitor), 1 mM 4-aminopyridine (a K(V) blocker), 10 muM glibenclamide (a K(ATP) blocker), 1 mM barium chloride (BaCl(2), a K(IR) blocker), and 100 nM iberiotoxin (a BK(Ca) blocker), but was nearly abolished by 10 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA, a non-selective potassium channel blocker). Preincubation with taurine 20-60 mM did not affect the basal tone but inhibited the contraction induced by phenylephrine, and the inhibitory effect was attenuated by TEA in isolated renal and mesenteric arterial rings. Present experiments show that taurine relaxes contracted rat aorta and inhibits the phenylephrine-induced contraction of renal and mesenteric arteries, and suggest that a mechanism related to potassium channel opening may be involved in the action of taurine.