The histamine H4 receptor is functionally expressed on neurons in the mammalian CNS

Background and purpose:

The histamine H₄ receptor is the most recently identified of the G protein-coupled histamine receptor family and binds several neuroactive drugs, including amitriptyline and clozapine. So far, H₄ receptors have been found only on haematopoietic cells, highlighting its importance in inflammatory conditions. Here we investigated the possibility that H₄ receptors may be expressed in both the human and mouse CNS.

Methods:

Immunological and pharmacological studies were performed using a novel anti-H₄ receptor antibody in both human and mouse brains, and electrophysiological techniques in the mouse brain respectively. Pharmacological tools, selective for the H₄ receptor and patch clamp electrophysiology, were utilized to confirm functional properties of the H₄ receptor in layer IV of the mouse somatosensory cortex.

Results:

Histamine H₄ receptors were prominently expressed in distinct deep laminae, particularly layer VI, in the human cortex, and mouse thalamus, hippocampal CA4 stratum lucidum and layer IV of the cerebral cortex. In layer IV of the mouse somatosensory cortex, the H₄ receptor agonist 4-methyl histamine (20 µmol·L⁻¹) directly hyperpolarized neurons, an effect that was blocked by the selective H₄ receptor antagonist JNJ 10191584, and promoted outwardly rectifying currents in these cells. Monosynaptic thalamocortical CNQX-sensitive excitatory postsynaptic potentials were not altered by 4-methyl histamine (20 µmol·L⁻¹) suggesting that H₄ receptors did not act as hetero-receptors on thalamocortical glutamatergic terminals.

Conclusions and implications:

This is the first demonstration that histamine H₄ receptors are functionally expressed on neurons, which has major implications for the therapeutic potential of these receptors in neurology and psychiatry.