Cannabinoids of diverse structure inhibit two DOI-induced 5-HT(2A) receptor-mediated behaviors in mice

We have recently shown that the selective cannabinoid CB(1) receptor antagonist SR 141716A produces robust frequencies of head-twitch response (HTR) and ear-scratch response (ESR) in drug-naive mice. Both behaviors were potently blocked by the selective 5-HT(2A/C) receptor antagonist SR 46349B. Selective 5-HT(2A/C) agonists such as DOI also produce these behaviors in mice. The purpose of the present study was to: (1) investigate whether Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) and its analogs [Delta(8)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(8)-THC), HU-210, CP 55,940, and WIN 55,212-2] can prevent the DOI-induced behaviors and (2) to see whether any correlation exists in the ID(50) potency order of these cannabinoids in inhibiting the DOI-induced HTR and ESR relative to their published ED(50) potency profiles in producing the tetrad of behaviors in mice. Thus, at 0 min, different groups of mice were injected intraperitoneally with either vehicle or varying doses of the following cannabinoids: Delta(9)-THC (0.25-20 mg/kg), Delta(8)-THC (2.5-20 mg/kg), HU-210 (0.02-0.5 mg/kg), CP 55,940 (0.004-0.5 mg/kg), and WIN 55,212-2 (0.5-10 mg/kg). Twenty minutes later, each mouse received an intraperitoneal injection of DOI (1 mg/kg) and the frequencies of DOI-induced behaviors (mean +/- S.E.M.) were recorded for the next 20 min. The tested cannabinoids reduced the frequencies of both DOI-induced HTR and ESR in a dose-dependent fashion. HU-210 was the most potent inhibitor of HTR, whereas CP 55,940 was most effective against ESR. The ID(50) potency order of cannabinoids in blocking the HTR is: HU-210 > CP 55,940 > WIN 55,212-2 > Delta(9)-THC > Delta(8)-THC, which is identical to their published order of potency in producing the tetrad of behaviors in mice. On the other hand, they had the following ID(50) potency order against the ESR: CP 55,940 > HU-210 > WIN 55,212-2 > Delta(9)-THC > Delta(8)-THC. The tested cannabinoids were 3-30 times more potent in preventing the ESR than the HTR. The data show that cannabinoids inhibit 5-HT(2A) receptor-mediated functions in a potent but differential manner.     

Comparison of cannabinoid ligands affinities and efficacies in murine tissues and in transfected cells expressing human recombinant cannabinoid receptors.

Affinities and efficacies of several reference cannabinoid ligands were investigated at central and peripheral cannabinoid receptors in three different species (rat, mouse, and human). The tested compounds belong to different chemical classes such as classical and non-classical terpene derivatives (Delta(8)-THC, Delta(9)-THC, HU 210, CP 55,940, CP 55,244, CP 55,243 and CP 47,947), aminoalkylindole (WIN 55,212-2, WIN 55,212-3) and diarylpyrazole cannabinoids (SR 141716A, SR 144528). As cannabinoid receptors have been shown to be mainly coupled to Gi/o type G- proteins, and by using the [(35)S]-GTPgammaS nucleotide binding modulation, we characterized the functional activity of these ligands which can act as agonists (positive intrinsic activity), partial agonists (partial positive intrinsic activity), antagonists (no intrinsic activity), or inverse agonists (negative intrinsic activity). To our knowledge, some derivatives (Delta(8)-THC, WIN 55,212-3, CP 55,243 and CP 47,947) have never been characterized in [(35)S]-GTPgammaS binding assays and up to now, this study represents the largest survey of reference cannabinoids performed in unique experimental conditions and in the same laboratory.     

Antiemetic and motor-depressive actions of CP55,940: cannabinoid CB1 receptor characterization,distribution, and G-protein activation

Dibenzopyran (Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol) and aminoalkylindole [R(+)-[2,3-dihydro-5-methyl-3-[(morpholinyl)methyl]pyrolol[1,2,3-de]-1,4-benzoxazin-yl]-(1-naphthalenyl) methanone mesylate; (WIN55,212-2)] cannabinoids suppress vomiting produced by cisplatin via cannabinoid CB(1) receptors. This study investigates the antiemetic potential of the "nonclassical" cannabinoid CP55,940 [1alpha,2beta-(R)-5alpha]-(-)-5-(1,1-dimethyl)-2-[5-hydroxy-2-(3-hydroxypropyl) cyclohexyl-phenol] against cisplatin-induced vomiting and assesses the presence and functionality of cannabinoid CB(1) receptors in the least shrew (Cryptotis parva) brain. CP55,940 (0.025-0.3 mg/kg) reduced both the frequency of cisplatin-induced emesis (ID(50)=0.025 mg/kg) and the percentage of shrews vomiting (ID(50)=0.09 mg/kg). CP55,940 also suppressed shrew motor behaviors (ID(50)=0.06- 0.21 mg/kg) at such doses. The antiemetic and motor-suppressant actions of CP55,940 were countered by SR141716A [N-piperidino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methylpyrazole-3-carboxamide], indicating both effects are cannabinoid CB(1) receptor-mediated. Autoradiographic studies with [3H]-SR141716A and [35S]-GTPgammaS binding revealed that the distribution of the cannabinoid CB(1) receptor and its activation pattern are similar to rodent brain and significant levels are present in brain loci (e.g., nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS)) that control emesis. The affinity rank order of structurally diverse cannabinoid ligands for cannabinoid CB(1) receptor in shrew brain is similar to rodent brain: HU-210=CP55,940=SR141716A>/=WIN55,212-2>/=delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol>methanandamide=HU-211=cannabidiol=2-arachidonoylglycerol. This affinity order is also similar and is highly correlated to the cannabinoid EC(50) potency rank order for GTPgammaS stimulation except WIN55,212-2 and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol potency order were reversed. The affinity and the potency rank order of tested cannabinoids were significantly correlated with their antiemetic ID(50) potency order against cisplatin-induced vomiting (CP55,940>WIN55,212-2=delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) as well as emesis produced by 2-arachidonoylglycerol or SR141716A (CP55,940>WIN55,212-2>delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).     

A novel high affinity class of Ca2+ channel blockers

Benzolactams (HOE 166 and analogs) form a new class of molecules acting on the 1,4-dihydropyridine-sensitive L-type Ca2+ channels. The main binding properties of HOE 166 and analogs to rabbit skeletal muscle membranes are as follows. (i) The compounds have a specific binding site to which they associate with a high affinity (0.25 nM for HOE 166). (ii) Unlabeled HOE 166 and analogs completely inhibit 1,4-dihydropyridine binding [(+)-[3H]PN 200-110] in a competitive way. (iii) Affinity values measured for HOE 166 inhibition of (+)-[3H]PN 200-110 (K0.5 = 0.25 nM and K1 = 0.55 nM) and of [3H]HOE 166 binding (K0.5 = 0.5 nM) are in good agreement. They also fit with results from direct binding experiments with tritiated HOE 166 (Kd = 0.27 nM) and from kinetic experiments (Kd = 0.39 nM). (iv) HOE 166 completely inhibits the specific binding of other classes of Ca2+ channel antagonists such as phenylalkylamines [(-)[3H] desmethoxyverapamil], benzothiazepines (d-cis-[3H]diltiazem), diphenylbutylpiperidines ([3H]fluspirilene), and [3H]bepridil. In all these cases the binding inhibition is of a noncompetitive nature. (v) The maximum binding capacity for [3H]HOE 166 binding to transverse tubule membranes, 65 pmol/mg of protein, is the same as that found for other classes of Ca2+ channel antagonists. 45Ca2+ uptake experiments performed with the rat aortic cell line A7r5 and the insulin-secreting cell line RINm5F demonstrate that HOE 166 and analogs fully inhibit the 1,4-dihydropyridine-sensitive 45Ca2+ influx elicited by depolarization. There is a good correlation between inhibitory potencies of compounds in the HOE 166 series measured on (+)-[3H]PN 200-110 binding to A7r5 membranes and on the activity of Ca2+ channels followed by 45Ca2+ fluxes with the same cells. Structure-function relationships of HOE 166 and analogs for Ca2+ channel blockade in A7r5 and RINm5F cells were also in good correlation. Finally, voltage-clamp experiments confirmed that voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channels are completely blocked by 100 nM HOE 166 even at a membrane potential held at -80 mV.     

Endogenous cannabinoid anandamide directly inhibits voltage-dependent Ca(2+) fluxes in rabbit T-tubule membranes

The effect of the endogenous cannabinoid, anandamide on Ca(2+) flux responses mediated by voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels was studied in transverse tubule membrane vesicles from rabbit skeletal muscle. Vesicles were loaded with 45Ca(2+) and membrane potentials were generated by establishing K(+) gradients across the vesicle using the ionophore, valinomycin. Anandamide, in the range of 1-100 microM, inhibited depolarization-induced efflux responses. Anandamide also functionally modulated the effects of nifedipine (1-10 microM) and Bay K 8644 (1 microM) on Ca(2+) flux responses. Pretreatment with the specific cannabinoid receptor antagonist, SR141716A (1 microM), pertussis toxin (5 microg/ml), the amidohydrolase inhibitor, phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (0.2 mM) or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (5 microM) did not alter the inhibition of efflux responses by anandamide. Arachidonic acid (10-100 microM) also effectively inhibited 45Ca(2+) efflux from membrane vesicles. In radioligand binding studies, it was found that both anandamide and arachidonic acid inhibited the specific binding of [3H]PN 200-110 to transverse tubule membranes with IC(50) values of 4.4+/-0. 7 and 13.4+/-3.5 microM, respectively. These results indicate that anandamide, independent of cannabinoid receptor activation, directly inhibits the function of voltage-dependent calcium channels and modulates the specific binding of calcium channel ligands of the dihydropyridine class.     

Receptor mechanism and antiemetic activity of structurally-diverse cannabinoids against radiation-induced emesis in the least shrew

Xenobiotic cannabinoid CB1/CB2-receptor agonists appear to possess broad-spectrum antiemetic activity since they prevent vomiting produced by a variety of emetic stimuli including the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin, serotonin 5-HT3-receptor agonists, dopamine D2/D3-receptor agonists and morphine, via the stimulation of CB1-receptors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether structurally-diverse cannabinoids [Delta9-THC, (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol); (Delta8-THC, delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol); WIN55,212-2, (R (+)-[2,3-dihydro-5-methyl-3-[(morpholinyl)), methyl] pyrolol [1,2,3-de]-1,4 benzoxazinyl]-(1-naphthalenyl) methenone mesylate); and CP55,940, ((-)-3-[2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl]-4-[3-hydroxypropyl] cyclohexane-1-ol)), can prevent radiation-induced emesis. Exposure to total body radiation (0, 5, 7.5 and 10 Gy) caused robust emesis in the least shrew (Cryptotis parva) in a dose-dependent manner (ED50=5.99 (5.77-6.23) Gy) and all animals vomited at the highest tested dose of radiation. In addition, the radiation exposure reduced locomotor behaviors to a significant but mild degree in a non-dose-dependent fashion up to one hour post-treatment. Radiation-induced emesis (10 Gy) was blocked in a dose-dependent manner by the CB1/CB2-receptor agonists with the following ID50 potency order: CP55,940 (0.11 (0.09-0.12) mg/kg)>WIN55,212,2 (3.65 (3.15-4.23) mg/kg)=Delta8-THC (4.36 (3.05-6.22) mg/kg)>Delta9-THC (6.76 (5.22-8.75) mg/kg). Although the greater antiemetic potency and efficacy of Delta8-THC relative to its isomer Delta9-THC is unusual as the latter cannabinoid possesses higher affinity and potency for cannabinoid receptors in functional assays, the current data support the results of a clinical study in children suggestive of complete protection from emesis by Delta8-THC. This effect has not been clinically observed for Delta9-THC in cancer patients receiving chemo- or radiation-therapy. Cannabinoids prevented the induced emesis via the stimulation of cannabinoid CB1-receptors because the CB1 (SR141716A)--and not the CB2 (SR144528)--receptor antagonist reversed both the observed reduction in emesis frequency and shrew emesis protection afforded by either Delta9-THC or CP55,940 against radiation-induced emesis. These findings further suggest that the least shrew can be utilized as a versatile and inexpensive small animal model to rapidly screen the efficacy of investigational antiemetics for the prevention of radiation-induced emesis.     

Identification, characterization, and photoaffinity labeling of the dihydropyridine receptor associated with the L-type calcium channel from bovine adrenal medulla

The dihydropyridine receptor associated with the L-type Ca2+ channel in adrenal medulla membranes has been identified and characterized. [3H]PN200-110 binds in a stereoselective, saturable manner to a single class of high affinity sites in adrenal medulla membranes, with a Kd of 0.1 nM and a Bmax of 141 fmol/mg of protein. Dihydropyridines inhibited [3H]PN200-110 binding with the rank order (+)-PN200-110 greater than nifedipine greater than nimodipine greater than usoldipine greater than or equal to nitrendipine greater than BayK8644 greater than (-)-PN200-110. [3H] PN200-110 binding was sensitive to divalent cations, as examined by the effects of Ca2+, Mg2+, and the chelators ethylene glycol bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid and EDTA. [3H]PN200-110 binding was modulated by various classes of L-type Ca2+ channel effectors. Benzothiazepines modulated binding of [3H]PN200-110 in a negative or positive manner that was temperature dependent, whereas phenylalkylamines weakly inhibited [3H]PN200-110 binding. Bepridil stimulated [3H] PN200-110 binding, whereas phencyclidine was without effect. The photoaffinity probe [3H]azidopine labeled a single polypeptide that migrated with an apparent molecular weight of 185,000-190,000 in sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis. The dihydropyridine receptor was found to bind specifically to wheat germ agglutinin columns. These results demonstrate the presence of a Ca2+ channel blocker complex in adrenal medulla. The drug receptor sites reside on a glycoprotein complex in which a polypeptide analogous to the alpha 1-subunit of the L-type Ca2+ channel from skeletal muscle has been identified.     

Calcium antagonistic and binding properties of semotiadil (SD-3211), a benzothiazine derivative assessed in cerebral and coronary arteries.

The present experiments were undertaken to elucidate Ca2+ antagonistic and binding properties of semotiadil and its (S)-(-)-enantiomer (SD-3212) in plausible clinical target tissues such as cerebral and coronary arteries. Semotiadil was about six times more potent than D-cis-diltiazem for Ca2+ antagonistic action, with a long-lasting and wide spectrum of inhibitory effects on contraction of dog cerebral arteries elicited by various spasmogens and mechanical stretch. Semotiadil exhibited a weak, negative, and heterotropic allosteric effect on (+)-[3H]PN 200-110 binding to pig coronary artery membranes: Scatchard analysis of saturation isotherms indicated that semotiadil increased the equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) of (+)-[3H]PN-200-110 binding without causing a significant change in the maximum binding density (Bmax). Furthermore, semotiadil significantly increased the dissociation rate (k-1) of (+)-[3H]PN 200-110 from the specific binding site. The enhanced binding of (+)-[3H]PN 200-110 to the coronary artery caused by D-cis-diltiazem was attenuated when semotiadil was present, whereas binding inhibited by verapamil was not affected in the presence of semotiadil. The results suggest that semotiadil exerts a potent Ca2+ antagonistic action by binding to a site in the Ca2+ channel distinct from the 1,4-dihydropyridine recognition site and interacts with the 1,4-dihydropyridine binding site in a negative, heterotropic, allosteric manner.     

Inhibition of serotonin release in the mouse brain via presynaptic cannabinoid CB1 receptors

We studied whether serotonin release in the CNS is inhibited via cannabinoid receptors. In mouse brain cortex slices preincubated with [3H]serotonin and superfused with medium containing indalpine and metitepine, tritium overflow was evoked either electrically (3 Hz) or by introduction of Ca2+ (1.3 mM) into Ca2+-free K+-rich (25 mM) medium containing tetrodotoxin. The effects of cannabinoid receptor ligands on the electrically evoked tritium overflow from mouse brain cortex slices preincubated with [3H]choline and on the binding of [3H]WIN 55,212-2 and [35S]GTPgammaS to mouse brain cortex membranes were examined as well. In superfused mouse cortex membranes preincubated with [3H]serotonin, the electrically evoked tritium overflow was inhibited by the cannabinoid receptor agonist WIN 55,212-2 (maximum effect of 20%, obtained at 1 microM; pEC50=7.11) and this effect was counteracted by the CB1 receptor antagonist SR 141716 (apparent pA2=8.02), which did not affect the evoked tritium overflow by itself. The effect of WIN 55,212-2 was not shared by its enantiomer WIN 55,212-3 but was mimicked by another cannabinoid receptor agonist, CP-55,940. WIN 55,212-2 also inhibited the Ca2+-evoked tritium overflow and this effect was antagonized by SR 141716. Concentrations of histamine, prostaglandin E2 and neuropeptide Y, causing the maximum effect at their respective receptors, inhibited the electrically evoked tritium overflow by 33, 69 and 73%, respectively. WIN 55,212-2 (1 microM) inhibited the electrically evoked tritium overflow from mouse brain cortex slices preincubated with [3H]choline by 49%. [3H]WIN 55,212-2 binding to mouse cortex membranes was inhibited by CP-55,940, SR 141716 and WIN 55,212-2 (pKi=9.30, 8.70 and 8.19, respectively) but not by the auxiliary drugs indalpine, metitepine and tetrodotoxin (pKi<4.5). [35S]GTPgammaS binding was increased by WIN 55,212-2 (maximum effect of 80%, pEC50=6.94) but not affected by WIN 55,212-3. In conclusion, serotonin release in the mouse brain cortex is inhibited via CB1 receptors, which may be located presynaptically and are not activated by endogenous cannabinoids. The extent of inhibition is smaller than that obtained (1) via another three presynaptic receptors on serotoninergic neurones and (2) via CB1 receptors on cholinergic neurones in the same tissue.     

Calcium channel agonist and antagonist binding in a highly enriched sarcolemma preparation obtained from canine ventricle

The purpose of the present study was to characterize the binding of the Ca2+ channel agonist (+/-)[3H]Bay K 8644 in a highly enriched cardiac membrane preparation and to examine its interactions with other Ca2+ channel ligands. Scatchard analysis showed that (+/-)[3H]Bay K 8644 displayed some 265-fold less affinity for its receptor than did the Ca2+ channel antagonist (+)[3H]PN200-110. Furthermore, (+/-)[3H]Bay K 8644 binding site density was significantly less than that seen for (+)[3H]PN200-110. Kinetic analysis of (+/-)[3H]Bay K 8644 binding revealed biphasic association and dissociation rates. The Ca2+ channel antagonist MDL 12,330A stimulated both (+)[3H]PN200-110 and (+/-)[3H]Bay K 8644 binding by effects on Kd. In contrast, diltiazem inhibited (+)[3H]PN200-110 binding but had no effect on (+/-)[3H]Bay K 8644 binding. Both MDL 12,330A and diltiazem inhibited Ca2+-dependent contraction in rat aortic rings but the combination of these two drugs was less than additive in this regard. We conclude that the binding profile of (+/-)[3H]Bay K 8644 results from the racemic nature of this ligand and that MDL 12,330A and diltiazem interact at sites distinct from one another on or around the slow voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel.     

Voltage-dependent binding of 1,4-dihydropyridine Ca2+ channel antagonists and activators in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes

Binding of 1,4-dihydropyridine Ca2+ channel ligands was characterized as a function of membrane potential using saturation, competition, and kinetic measurements in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes. The 1,4-dihydropyridine antagonist [3H]PN 200-110 bound to polarized cells (5.8 mM K+) with a KD value of 3.53 X 10(-9) M and a Bmax value of 50.1 fmol/mg of protein. In depolarized cells (50 mM K+), a KD value of 6.33 X 10(-11) M was found, reflecting a 55-fold increase in affinity; Bmax did not change upon depolarization. Dissociation rates (k-1) of [3H]PN 200-110 binding were faster in polarized cells (0.53 min-1) than in depolarized cells (0.018 min-1), but association rates (k1 of 2.17 X 10(8) and 2.27 X 10(8) min-1M-1 were not different in polarized and depolarized cells. The KD values calculated from the ratio of k-1/k1 accorded well with those determined from equilibrium binding assays. The enantiomers of Bay K 8644 and 202-791 and a series of nifedipine analogs inhibited specific binding of [3H]PN 200-110 in depolarized cells. In polarized cells, the affinities of the S-enantiomers (activators) were close to those in depolarized cells; however, the affinities of R-enantiomers (antagonists) were 50- to 65-fold lower. The effects of both (S)- and (R)-Bay K 8644 on [3H]PN 200-110 binding were mediated through increased apparent KD values, without changes in Bmax and nH. In depolarized cells, l-D600 and d-D600 partially inhibited [3H]PN 200-110 binding to a maximum of 71% and 56%, respectively; in polarized cells, l-D600 (d-D600 not measured) was ineffective on [3H]PN 200-110 binding. d-(cis)-Diltiazem, but not l-(cis)-diltiazem, partially inhibited (maximum 30%) specific binding of [3H]PN 200-110 in depolarized cells, but potentiated (maximum 79%) binding in polarized cells. The potentiating effect of d-(cis)-diltiazem was mediated through an increase in affinity without change in Bmax of [3H]PN 200-110 binding. (S)-Bay K 8644 potentiated 45Ca2+ uptake into the cells, with an EC50 value of 4.26 X 10(-10) M; concentrations higher than 10(-7) M were inhibitory, producing a biphasic concentration-response relationship. (R)-Bay K 8644 inhibited 80 mM K+-stimulated 45Ca2+ uptake with an IC50 value of 2.11 X 10(-9) M. These pharmacologic values correlate well with the binding affinities.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)     

Vascular effects of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), anandamide and N-arachidonoyldopamine (NADA) in the rat isolated aorta

The vascular effects of cannabinoids have been compared in the rat isolated aorta. Delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), anandamide and N-arachidonoyl-dopamine (NADA) all caused vasorelaxation to similar degrees in pre-constricted aortae. Vasorelaxation to THC was inhibited by in vivo pre-treatment with pertussis toxin (10 microg/kg) or with the synthetic cannabinoid CP55,940 (((-)-cis-3-[2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)phenyl]-trans-4-(3-hydroxypropyl)cyclohexanol), acutely or chronically), exposure to capsaicin in vitro (10 microM for 1 h), and de-endothelialisation. Vasorelaxation to anandamide was only inhibited by pertussis toxin and chronic CP55,940 pre-treatment (0.4 mg/kg for 11 days). Vasorelaxation to NADA was inhibited by pertussis toxin and chronic CP55,940 pre-treatment, and by de-endothelialisation. The vasorelaxant effects of the cannabinoids were not inhibited by cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonism; however, vasorelaxation to both CP55,940 and THC was inhibited by cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonism. Vasorelaxation to all cannabinoids was enhanced in the presence of indomethacin (10 microM). THC also caused vasoconstriction of the aorta while anandamide, NADA, CP55,940 and WIN 55,212-2 (R(+)-[2,3-dihydro-5-methyl-3-[(morpholinyl)methyl]pyrrolo[1,2,3-de]-1,4benzoxazin-yl]-(1-naphthalenyl)methanone mesylate) did not. The vasoconstrictor effects of THC were inhibited by in vivo pre-treatment with pertussis toxin or CP55,940, acute exposure to CP55,940, cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonism and cyclooxygenase inhibition. These results demonstrate the opposing vascular effects of cannabinoids in the rat aorta, and although vasorelaxation to each of the cannabinoids is of similar magnitude, it is mediated through different pathways. This gives further indication of the different vascular actions of cannabinoid compounds.     

Reversal of SR 141716A-induced head-twitch and ear-scratch responses in mice by delta 9-THC and other cannabinoids.

Recently, we have shown that cannabinoids of diverse structure block the ability of the selective 5-HT(2A/C) agonist DOI to produce the head-twitch response (HTR) and the ear-scratch response (ESR) in mice. The cannabinoid CB(1) antagonist/inverse agonist SR 141716A also induces these behaviors in mice. The purposes of the present study were: (1) to investigate whether Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC) and other cannabinoids HU-210 and WIN 55, 212-2 can prevent SR 141716A-induced HTR and ESR and (2) to evaluate any correlation between the ID(50) potency order of the cited cannabinoids in blocking SR 141716A-induced HTR and ESR and their ED(50) order of potency in reducing spontaneous locomotor activity and rearing behavior. For the SR 141716A reversal study, different groups of mice were injected intraperitoneally with either vehicle or varying doses of the following cannabinoids: Delta(9)-THC (2.5-20 mg/kg), Delta(8)-THC (5-20 mg/kg), HU-210 (0.05-0.5 mg/kg), CP 55, 940 (0.5-2.5 mg/kg) and WIN 55, 212-2 (2.5-10 mg/kg). Thirty minutes later, each mouse received SR 141716A (2.5 mg/kg ip) and the frequencies of the induced behaviors (mean +/- S.E.M.) were recorded for the next 30 min. The effects of the cited doses of cannabinoids were also examined on spontaneous locomotor activity and rearing frequency for a 20-min duration 10 min after cannabinoid injection. The tested cannabinoids reduced the frequencies of HTR and ESR in SR 141716A-injected mice. These agents also attenuated the cited naturally occurring repertoire of motor parameters in mice. Although large potency differences were observed among the cited cannabinoids, each tested cannabinoid was relatively equipotent in preventing locomotor parameters and SR 141716A-induced behaviors. The ID(50) potency order of cannabinoids in blocking SR 141716A-induced HTR and ESR were similar (HU-210>CP 55, 940>WIN 55, 212-2 > or = Delta 9)-THC=Delta(8)-THC), and are comparable with: (1) their ED(50) potency order in attenuating both spontaneous locomotor activity and rearing behavior (HU-210>CP 55, 940>WIN 55, 212-2>Delta(9)-THC=Delta(8)-THC) and (2) their published ED(50) potency order for producing the tetrad of behaviors in mice as well as their rank order of binding affinities for cannabinoid CB(1) receptors. The present data show that cannabinoids of diverse structure prevent SR 141716A-induced HTR and ESR, and inhibition of these behaviors by cannabinoids could be used as a new index of cannabimimetic activity.     

SR33557, an indolizinsulfone blocker of Ca2+ channels: identification of receptor sites and analysis of its mode of action

SR33557 belongs to a new class of molecules (indolizinsulfones) that act on the same receptor complex that has been characterized for other classical calcium channel effectors. The main binding properties of SR33557 to rabbit skeletal muscle are as follows. (i) Unlabeled SR33557 completely inhibits the specific binding of all classes of calcium channel antagonists such as dihydropyridines [(+)-[3H]PN200-110], phenylalkylamines ([3H] verapamil), benzothiazepines (d-(cis)-[3H]diltiazem), and diphenybutylpiperidines ([3H]fluspirilene). In all these cases inhibition of binding is of a noncompetitive nature. (ii) [3H]SR33557 binds with high affinity to T tubule membranes (KD = 0.08 nM) and the maximum binding capacity (Bmax = 78 pmol/mg of protein) is the same as that found for other classes of Ca2+ channel antagonists. Photoaffinity labeling confirms that [3H]SR33557 associates with the same protein of Mr 165,000 that binds the classical calcium channel inhibitors. 45Ca2+ uptake experiments performed with the rat aortic cell line A7r5, the insulin-secreting cell line RINm5F, and the pheochromocytoma cell line PC12 demonstrate that SR33557 fully inhibits the 1,4-dihydropyridine-sensitive 45Ca2+ uptake elicited by depolarization. A very good correlation was found between inhibition of 45Ca2+ uptake and of [3H]dopamine release in PC12 cells and between inhibition of 45Ca2+ uptake and of L-type Ca2+ current in A7r5 cells under whole-cell patch-clamp conditions.     

3H]PN200-110 and [3H]glibenclamide binding in normal and cardiomyopathic hamsters.

1. We examined the binding of the Ca2+ channel ligand [3H]PN200-110 and the ATP-sensitive K+ channel ligand [3H]glibenclamide to brain and heart from cardiomyopathic hamsters and compared them to controls. 2. We found that [3H]PN200-110 binding site density was elevated in the heart, but not in the brain, of 30- and 180-day old cardiomyopathic hamsters when compared to controls. 3. [3H]Glibenclamide binding site density was greatly reduced in the heart of 180-day old cardiomyopathic animals compared with all other groups. 4. Quantitative autoradiography revealed that [3H]glibenclamide binding was elevated in several brain areas of 30-day old cardiomyopathic hamsters relative to controls. 5. It is concluded that alterations in both Ca2+ and K+ channels exist in the cardiomyopathic hamster.     

The actions of peppermint oil and menthol on calcium channel dependent processes in intestinal, neuronal and cardiac preparations

The activities of menthol and peppermint oil were determined in guinea-pig ileal smooth muscle, in rat and guinea-pig atrial and papillary muscle, in rat brain synaptosomes and in chick retinal neurones by pharmacological 45Ca2+ uptake and radioligand binding assays. Menthol is a major constituent of peppermint oil and is approximately twice as potent as peppermint oil as an inhibitor of K+ depolarization-induced and electrically stimulated responses in ileum and electrically stimulated atrial and papillary muscles. IC50 values in the ileal preparation ranged from 7.7 to 28.1 micrograms ml-1 and in the cardiac preparations from 10.1 to 68.5 micrograms ml-1. Similar potencies were demonstrated against K+ depolarization-induced 45Ca2+ uptake in synaptosomes and against K+ depolarization and Bay K 8644-induced uptake in chick retinal neurons. IC50 values for menthol inhibition of K+ and Bay K 8644 responses in the retinal neurons were 1.1 x 10(-4) M (17.2 micrograms ml-1) and 1.75 x 10(-4) M (26.6 micrograms ml-1), respectively, and for peppermint oil were 20.3 and 41.7 micrograms ml-1 respectively. Both menthol and peppermint oil inhibited specific [3H]nitrendipine and [3H]PN 200-110 binding to smooth and cardiac muscle and neuronal preparations with potencies comparable to, but slightly lower than, those measured in the pharmacological and 45Ca2+ uptake experiments. Binding of menthol and peppermint oil, studied at 78 micrograms ml-1, was competitive against [3H]nitrendipine in both smooth muscle and synaptosome preparations. The data indicate that both menthol and peppermint oil exert Ca2+ channel blocking properties which may underlie their use in irritable bowel syndrome. Ca2+ channel antagonism may not be the only pharmacological effect of menthol and peppermint oil contributing to intestinal smooth muscle relaxation.     

(+)-[3H]isradipine and [3H]glyburide bindings to heart and lung membranes from rats with monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension

We examined the binding of a 1,4-dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca2+ channel ligand, (+)-[3H]isradipine (PN200-110), and that of an ATP-sensitive K+ (K(ATP)) channel ligand, [3H]glyburide, to heart, lung and brain membranes isolated from Sprague-Dawley rats made pulmonary hypertensive by monocrotaline, a pyrrolizidine alkaloid. A single subcutaneous injection of monocrotaline increased right ventricular systolic pressure, a measure of pulmonary arterial pressure, and the thickness of the right ventricular free wall in 3 to 4 weeks. The (+)-[3H]PN200-110 and [3H]glyburide binding site densities (Bmax) were reduced in hypertrophied right ventricles when normalized per unit protein in comparison with those of age-matched control (sham) rats, whereas the values of the dissociation constant (Kd) of both ligands bound to the hypertrophied right ventricle were not significantly changed. The [3H]PN200-110 binding to the lung membranes of the monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertensive rats was increased. The results indicate that the change in the binding of 1,4-dihydropyridine Ca2+ and K(ATP) channel ligands to heart membranes may contribute to the pathological alteration of cardiopulmonary structure and functions in rats with pulmonary hypertension induced by monocrotaline.     

Haloperidol,but not clozapine,produces dramatic catalepsy in delta9-THC-treated rats: possible clinical implications

The effect on rat catalepsy induced by Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta9-THC) in association with haloperidol (HP) or clozapine (CLOZ) administration was investigated. Delta9-THC dose-dependently increased HP (0.05-1 mg kg-1, s.c.)-induced rat catalepsy, while no catalepsy was observed after CLOZ (1-20 mg kg-1, s.c.) or Delta9-THC+CLOZ administration. The CB1 antagonist SR141716A (0.5-5 mg kg-1, i.p.) reversed the increase mediated by Delta9-THC on HP-induced catalepsy. The D2 agonist quinpirole completely reversed the catalepsy induced by both HP and HP+Delta9-THC; however, higher doses of quinpirole were needed in the presence of Delta9-THC. The M1 antagonist scopolamine and alpha2 antagonist yohimbine were able to reduce the catalepsy induced by HP and HP+Delta9-THC in a similar manner. CLOZ and the 5-HT2A/2C antagonists ritanserin, RS102221 and SB242084 were more effective in antagonizing HP than HP+Delta9-THC-induced catalepsy.7 HP and CLOZ failed to inhibit in vitro [3H]CP-55,940 binding, while Delta9-THC and SR141716A did not show an appreciable affinity for the D2 receptor. It was suggested that the different effects on rat catalepsy induced by Delta9-THC following HP or CLOZ administration may depend on the receptor-binding profiles of the two antipsychotics. The preferential use of CLOZ rather than HP in the treatment of psychotic symptoms in cannabis abusers was discussed.     

Gossypol induces chloride secretion in rat proximal colon

The role of L-type Ca2+ channels in morphine antinociception was studied in streptozotocin-induced diabetic and control rats, using [3H]PN200-110 [isopropyl 4-(2,1,3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl)-1,4-dihydro-2,6-dimethyl-5-methoxycabonylpyridine-3-caboxylate] binding (0.005-1.0 nmol/l) and rat whole brain membranes, to determine if the attenuation of morphine antinociception was related to alterations in dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca2+ channel binding characteristics. The tail-flick antinociceptive effect of morphine (4 mg/kg, i.p.) was significantly reduced in diabetic rats in comparison to that in controls. Nimodipine (0.1-3 mg/kg, i.p.) did not produce antinociception but significantly potentiated the morphine response in control rats. Nimodipine (0.3-3 mg/kg, i.p.) reversed the attenuation of morphine antinociception in a dose-dependent manner in diabetic rats. Moreover, insulin (2 U/kg, s.c.) [correction of mu/kg] reversed the attenuated morphine antinociception in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. A significant increase in the Bmax (+41%) of [3H]PN200-110 binding was observed in diabetic rat brain membranes compared to that in control rats. However, there was no change in affinity (Kd) value of [3H]PN200-110. The reduced morphine response in diabetic rats, in accordance with up-regulation of dihydropyridine sites, may be due to an increased Ca2+ influx through L-type channels. These results suggest a functional role of L-type Ca2+ channels in morphine antinociception and the diabetic state may lead to alterations in their density.     

Comparison of the effects of xenon and halothane on voltage-dependent Ca(2+) fluxes in rabbit T-tubule membranes

The effects of xenon and halothane on depolarization-induced (45)Ca(2+) fluxes mediated by voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels were investigated in transverse tubule membrane vesicles from rabbit skeletal muscle. Halothane, in the concentration range of 0.5-2 mM, caused a significant inhibition of (45)Ca(2+) fluxes. Xenon tested in the range of 60%-100% did not affect the (45)Ca(2+) fluxes. Radioligand binding studies indicated that xenon and halothane have different effects on the specific binding of [(3)H]Isradipine to transverse tubule membranes. Halothane caused a significant inhibition on the specific binding of [(3)H]Isradipine. In controls and in presence of 0.5 mM halothane, B(max) values were 26.9 pmole/mg and 15.1 pmole/mg, and K(D) values were 238 pM and 247 pM, respectively. On the other hand, there was no effect of xenon (60%-100%) on the characteristics of [(3)H]Isradipine binding. In conclusion, results indicate that xenon and halothane differ in their effects on the function of voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels and on the specific binding of [(3)H]Isradipine in skeletal muscle membranes.