CCK and 5-HT act synergistically to suppress food intake through simultaneous activation of CCK-1 and 5-HT3 receptors

Cholecystokinin (CCK) and serotonin (5-HT) systems have been shown to cooperate interdependently in control of food intake. To assess mechanisms by which CCK and 5-HT systems interact in control of food intake we examined: (1) participation of CCK-1 and 5-HT3 receptors in 5-HT-induced suppression of sucrose intake; (2) the interaction between CCK and 5-HT in suppression of food intake; (3) the role of CCK-1 and 5-HT3 receptors in mediating this interaction. Intraperitoneal administration of 5-HT (0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg) significantly reduced intake compared to control in a dose responsive fashion (r2=0.989). Suppression of food intake by 5-HT was significantly attenuated by prior treatment with the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron at each 5-HT dose tested (P<0.05), while blockade of CCK-1 receptors by lorglumide had no effect on 5-HT-induced suppression of intake. Administration of CCK-8 (0.5 microg/kg) or 5-HT (0.5 mg/kg) alone significantly reduced sucrose intake by 22.9 and 22.2% respectively, compared to control (P<0.0001). Co-administration of CCK and 5-HT resulted in a synergistic suppression of intake leading to an overall 48.4% reduction in sucrose intake compared to saline (P<0.0001). Concomitant CCK-1 and 5-HT3 receptor blockade by lorglumide and ondansetron respectively, resulted in a complete reversal of the combined CCK and 5-HT-induced suppression of intake. Independent administration of lorglumide or ondansetron did not alter intake compared to control. These studies provide evidence that 5-HT causes suppression in food intake by acting at 5-HT3, not CCK-1 receptors. Furthermore, CCK and 5-HT interact to produce an enhanced suppression of food intake, an effect mediated through concomitant activation of CCK-1 and 5-HT3 receptors.     

Nitric oxide synthase inhibitors enhance 5-HT2 receptor-mediated behavior, the head-twitch response in mice.

The purpose of this study was to characterize behavioral interactions between nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors and serotonergic 5-HT2 receptors. In the present study, NOS inhibitors, N(G)-nitro-L-arginine, N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methylester, N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine, 7-nitroindazole, trifluoperazine and NO scavenger, methylene blue markedly enhanced 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-induced selective serotonergic behavior, the head twitch response (HTR), in mice. However NO generators, sodium nitroprusside, 3-morpholinosydnonimine and S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine as well as NO precursor, L-arginine markedly inhibited 5-HT induced HTR in mice. In the previous study, it was demonstrated that the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists markedly enhanced 5-HT-induced selective serotonergic behavior, HTR, whereas NMDA itself inhibited 5-HT-induced HTR in mice. In the present study, it was demonstrated that the inhibition by a NMDA receptor agonist, NMDA of 5-HT-induced HTR was reversed by the treatment with NOS inhibitors, N(G)-nitro-L-arginine and N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methylester. The suppressive action by a NO generator, S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine of 5-HT-induced HTR was also reversed by the treatment with NMDA receptor antagonists, MK-801 and dextromethorphan. These results have shown that the NO system is located down stream of NMDA receptors involved in modulation of 5-HT2-mediated HTR. Therefore, the enhanced effects of NOS inhibitors on 5-HT-induced HTR support experimental evidence for the NO/5-HT2 as well as NMDA/5-HT2 receptor interactions indicating that NO plays an important role in the glutamatergic modulation of the serotonergic function at the 5-HT2 receptor.     

Functional interactions between native Gs-coupled 5-HT receptors in HEK-293 cells and the heterologously expressed serotonin transporter

In HEK-293 cells, serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) was found to induce cAMP production showing pharmacological characteristics consistent with the 5-HT(7) receptor. The presence of 5-HT(7) (and 5-HT(6)) receptor mRNA was confirmed by RT-PCR. Stable HEK-293 cell lines expressing either wild-type or haemagglutinin (HA)-tagged human 5-HT transporter (SERT) were selected and SERT function was confirmed using [3H]5-HT transport. The presence of SERT caused a 10-fold reduction in the potency of 5-HT-induced cAMP production compared to control cells. Downstream signalling by 5-HT(6/7) receptors could be detected as 5-HT-induced protein kinase A activation and phosphorylation of MAP kinase and CREB using phospho-specific antibodies. SERT inhibitors reversed the reduction in potency of 5-HT-induced cAMP production caused by the presence of SERT, resulting in a concentration-dependent left shift in EC(50) values but also a progressive decrease in the maximal response. Thus, when antidepressants were used to block SERT activity, 5-HT receptor signalling was effectively clamped within a mid-range.     

Pharmacological characterisation of 5-hydroxytryptamine-induced contractile effects in the isolated gut of the lepidopteran caterpillar Spodoptera frugiperda

The indolealkylamine 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, 0.1 nM-1 μM) caused dose-dependent increases in the number of contractions observed in guts isolated from the caterpillar Spodoptera frugiperda. Of the 5-HT analogues tested for agonist action, 2-methyl-5-HT (0.1-10 μM) was a full agonist with reduced potency while α-methyl-5-HT (0.1-100 μM), 5-carboxamidotryptamine (0.1-100 μM), 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MeOT) (10 nM-10 μM), and tryptamine (1-100 μM) were partial agonists. Incubation of isolated guts with proven mammalian 5-HT receptor antagonists showed that cyproheptadine (10 nM-1 μM), MDL 72222 (1-10 μM), tropisetron (1-10 μM) and 5-benzoyloxygramine (1-10 μM) were potent non-competitive antagonists of 5-HT-induced tissue contraction. In comparison, ketanserin (0.1-1 μM) was a competitive antagonist. The mammalian selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, clomipramine (10 nM-10 μM) and fluoxetine (10 nM-10 μM) also caused non-competitive inhibition of 5-HT-induced contraction while fluvoxamine (10 nM-10 μM) was a weak competitive antagonist. Low doses of clomipramine (0.1 μM) caused potentiation of 5-HT-induced gut contraction thereby suggesting the presence of 5-HT reuptake systems in this tissue. The contractile effects of 5-HT were inhibited by verapamil, Li⁺ and H7 and potentiated by theophylline thereby indicating that L-type Ca²⁺ channels, phosphatidylinositol second messengers and cAMP, respectively, are involved in 5-HT-induced tissue contraction. The 5-HT receptors mediating contractility in the gut of S. frugiperda have properties in common with mammalian 5-HT₂ and Drosophila 5-HT_dro2A/2B receptors. In addition, these data suggest that the tissue also contains receptors that are similar to mammalian 5-ht₆ and 5-HT₇ as well as Drosophila_dro1 receptors. However, the primary amino acid sequence of these lepidopteran 5-HT receptors will have to be elucidated before full comparisons can be made.     

Serotonin via 5-HT7 receptors activates p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and protein kinase C epsilon resulting in interleukin-6 synthesis in human U373 MG astrocytoma cells

Serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] is a widely distributed neurotransmitter which is involved in neuroimmunomodulatory processes. Previously, it has been demonstrated that 5-HT may induce interleukin (IL)-6 expression in primary rat hippocampal astrocytes. The present study was undertaken to investigate the molecular pathways underlying this induction of IL-6 synthesis. As a model system, we used the human astrocytoma cell line U373 MG, which synthesizes IL-6 upon stimulation with various inducers. 5-HT dose- and time-dependently induced IL-6 protein synthesis. We identified several 5-HT receptors to be expressed on U373 MG cells, including the 5-HT1D, 5-HT2A, 5-HT3 and 5-HT7 receptors. In this report, we show that the 5-HT-induced IL-6 release is mediated by the 5-HT7 receptor based on several agonist/antagonists that were used. 5-HT-induced IL-6 synthesis is inhibited by the partially selective 5-HT7 receptor antagonist, pimozide, and the selective antagonist SB269970. Furthermore, IL-6 synthesis was induced by the 5-HT7 receptor agonist carboxamidotryptamin. In addition, we found p38 MAPKs and protein kinase C (PKC) epsilon to be involved in 5-HT-induced IL-6 synthesis as specific inhibitors of these enzymes (SB202190 and RO-31-8425, respectively) blocked 5-HT-induced IL-6 synthesis. Furthermore, 5-HT mediated the phosphorylation of both p38 MAPK as well as the PKC epsilon isoform. The p42/44 MAPKs, however, were not involved in 5-HT-induced IL-6 synthesis. This study shows, for the first time, a central role of 5-HT7 receptor linked to p38 MAPK and PKC epsilon for the induction of cytokine synthesis in astrocytic cells.     

An enteric signal regulates putative gastrointestinal presympathetic vasomotor neurons in rats

Ingestion of a meal results in gastrointestinal (GI) hyperemia and is associated with systemic and paracrine release of a number of peptide hormones, including cholecystokinin (CCK) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). Systemic administration of CCK octapeptide inhibits a subset of presympathetic neurons of the rostroventrolateral medulla (RVLM) that may be responsible for driving the sympathetic vasomotor tone to the GI viscera. The aim of this study was to determine whether endogenous release of CCK and/or 5-HT also inhibits CCK-sensitive RVLM neurons. The effects of intraduodenal administration of the secretagogues sodium oleate (SO) and soybean trypsin inhibitor (SBTI) on circulating levels of CCK and 5-HT were examined. In separate experiments, the discharge rates of barosensitive, medullospinal, CCK-sensitive RVLM presympathetic vasomotor neurons were recorded after rapid intraduodenal infusion of SO-SBTI or water. Alternatively, animals were pretreated with the CCK1 receptor antagonists devazepide and lorglumide or the 5-HT3 antagonist MDL-72222 before SO-SBTI administration. Secretagogue infusion significantly increased the level of circulating CCK, but not 5-HT. SO-SBTI significantly decreased (58%) the neuronal firing rate of CCK-sensitive RVLM neurons compared with water (5%). CCK1 receptor antagonists did not reverse SO-SBTI-induced neuronal inhibition (58%), whereas the 5-HT3 antagonist significantly attenuated the effect (22%). This study demonstrates a functional relation between a subset of RVLM presympathetic vasomotor neurons and meal-related signals arising from the GI tract. It is likely that endogenously released 5-HT acts in a paracrine fashion on GI 5-HT3 receptors to initiate reflex inhibition of these neurons, resulting in GI vasodilatation by withdrawal of sympathetic tone.     

Characterization of the muscarinic and serotoninergic receptors of the intestine of the rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri)

The ability of carbachol and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) to contract isolated segments of rainbow trout intestine in a concentration-dependent manner indicates the presence of muscarinic and serotoninergic receptors in this tissue. The activity of these agonists appears to be directly on the smooth muscle, since ganglionic blockers and inhibitors of neurotransmission did not inhibit contractions. The carbachol-induced contractions were selectively inhibited by atropine and (+-)-3-quinuclidinyl xanthene-9-carboxylate hemioxalate hydrate, an M-2 muscarinic receptor antagonist. However, the inhibition was not competitive. McN-A-343, an M-1 muscarinic agonist had no effect on intrinsic tone. The 5-HT-induced contractions were selectively inhibited by methysergide and the 5-HT2 receptor blockers, ketanserin and 1-(1-naphthyl)piperazine. Again, the inhibition by these agents was not competitive. 5-HT1 and 5-HT3 receptor antagonists did not inhibit contractions. The results thus suggest that the smooth muscle of the rainbow trout intestine contains M-2 muscarinic and 5-HT2 receptors.     

Serotonin 5-HT3 Receptor-Mediated Vomiting Occurs via the Activation of Ca2+/CaMKII-Dependent ERK1/2 Signaling in the Least Shrew (Cryptotis parva)

Stimulation of 5-HT₃ receptors (5-HT₃Rs) by 2-methylserotonin (2-Me-5-HT), a selective 5-HT₃ receptor agonist, can induce vomiting. However, downstream signaling pathways for the induced emesis remain unknown. The 5-HT₃R channel has high permeability to extracellular calcium (Ca²⁺) and upon stimulation allows increased Ca²⁺ influx. We examined the contribution of Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα (Ca²⁺/CaMKIIα), interaction of 5-HT₃R with calmodulin, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling to 2-Me-5-HT-induced emesis in the least shrew. Using fluo-4 AM dye, we found that 2-Me-5-HT augments intracellular Ca²⁺ levels in brainstem slices and that the selective 5-HT₃R antagonist palonosetron, can abolish the induced Ca²⁺ signaling. Pre-treatment of shrews with either: i) amlodipine, an antagonist of L-type Ca²⁺ channels present on the cell membrane; ii) dantrolene, an inhibitor of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) Ca²⁺-release channels located on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER); iii) a combination of their less-effective doses; or iv) inhibitors of CaMKII (KN93) and ERK1/2 (PD98059); dose-dependently suppressed emesis caused by 2-Me-5-HT. Administration of 2-Me-5-HT also significantly: i) enhanced the interaction of 5-HT₃R with calmodulin in the brainstem as revealed by immunoprecipitation, as well as their colocalization in the area postrema (brainstem) and small intestine by immunohistochemistry; and ii) activated CaMKIIα in brainstem and in isolated enterochromaffin cells of the small intestine as shown by Western blot and immunocytochemistry. These effects were suppressed by palonosetron. 2-Me-5-HT also activated ERK1/2 in brainstem, which was abrogated by palonosetron, KN93, PD98059, amlodipine, dantrolene, or a combination of amlodipine plus dantrolene. However, blockade of ER inositol-1, 4, 5-triphosphate receptors by 2-APB, had no significant effect on the discussed behavioral and biochemical parameters. This study demonstrates that Ca²⁺ mobilization via extracellular Ca²⁺ influx through 5-HT₃Rs/L-type Ca²⁺ channels, and intracellular Ca²⁺ release via RyRs on ER, initiate Ca²⁺-dependent sequential activation of CaMKIIα and ERK1/2, which contribute to the 5-HT₃R-mediated, 2-Me-5-HT-evoked emesis.     

Serotonin augments gut pacemaker activity via 5-HT3 receptors

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine: 5-HT) affects numerous functions in the gut, such as secretion, muscle contraction, and enteric nervous activity, and therefore to clarify details of 5-HT's actions leads to good therapeutic strategies for gut functional disorders. The role of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), as pacemaker cells, has been recognised relatively recently. We thus investigated 5-HT actions on ICC pacemaker activity. Muscle preparations with myenteric plexus were isolated from the murine ileum. Spatio-temporal measurements of intracellular Ca(2+) and electric activities in ICC were performed by employing fluorescent Ca(2+) imaging and microelectrode array (MEA) systems, respectively. Dihydropyridine (DHP) Ca(2+) antagonists and tetrodotoxin (TTX) were applied to suppress smooth muscle and nerve activities, respectively. 5-HT significantly enhanced spontaneous Ca(2+) oscillations that are considered to underlie electric pacemaker activity in ICC. LY-278584, a 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist suppressed spontaneous Ca(2+) activity in ICC, while 2-methylserotonin (2-Me-5-HT), a 5-HT(3) receptor agonist, restored it. GR113808, a selective antagonist for 5-HT(4), and O-methyl-5-HT (O-Me-5-HT), a non-selective 5-HT receptor agonist lacking affinity for 5-HT(3) receptors, had little effect on ICC Ca(2+) activity. In MEA measurements of ICC electric activity, 5-HT and 2-Me-5-HT caused excitatory effects. RT-PCR and immunostaining confirmed expression of 5-HT(3) receptors in ICC. The results indicate that 5-HT augments ICC pacemaker activity via 5-HT(3) receptors. ICC appear to be a promising target for treatment of functional motility disorders of the gut, for example, irritable bowel syndrome.     

Serotonergic regulation of blood glucose levels in the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii: site of action and receptor characterization

The present study investigated the site of action of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and pharmacologically characterized the receptors involved in regulating blood glucose levels in the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. Injection of 5-HT into intact animals increased glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, 5-HT failed to elicit a hyperglycemic response in eyestalk-ablated animals. Effects of several 5-HT receptor agonists and antagonists were examined. 5-CT, oxymetazoline (both 5-HT(1) receptor agonists) and alpha-methyl-5-HT (a 5-HT(2) receptor agonist), but not 1-phenylbiguanide, m-CPBG (both 5-HT(3) receptor agonists), or RS 67333 (a 5-HT(4) receptor agonist), induced hyperglycemic responses in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, 8-OH-DPAT (a 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist), L-694,247 (a 5-HT(1B/1D) receptor agonist), and DOI (a 5-HT(2A) receptor agonist) were effective in significantly increasing the glucose levels, whereas both BW 723C86 (a 5-HT(2B) receptor agonist) and m-CPP (a 5-HT(2C) receptor agonist) were ineffective. Finally, ketanserin (a 5-HT(2A) receptor antagonist), but not p-MPPF (a 5-HT(1A) receptor antagonist), GR 55562 (a 5-HT(1B/1D) receptor antagonist), SB 206553 (a 5-HT(2B/2C) receptor antagonist), or tropisetron (a 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist), was able to block 5-HT-induced hyperglycemia. The combined results support the hypothesis that 5-HT exerts its hyperglycemic effect by enhancing the release of hyperglycemic factor(s) from the eyestalks, and suggest that 5 HT-induced hyperglycemia is mediated by 5-HT(1)- and 5-HT(2)-like receptors.     

Effects of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibition on basal- and serotonin-induced ion transport in rat colon

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a selective cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitor as compared to non-selective COX and lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitors in rat colon. Basal- and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT)-induced electrogenic ion transport (short circuit current, SCC), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release and histological characteristics were measured. Muscle-stripped mucosal sheets of the proximal and distal segment of rat colon were investigated by employing the Ussing chamber technique, radioimmunoassays for PGE2 and light microscopy examinations for control of tissue integrity. 5-HT and PGE2 both induced a concentration-dependent increase in SCC by activation of multiple receptors. The response to 5-HT was bumetanide-sensitive. Neither the non-selective COX inhibitor piroxicam, nor the selective COX-2 inhibitor SC-'236, altered basal- SCC or 5-HT-induced SCC. Indomethacin reduced both basal- and 5-HT-induced SCC in both segments. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid reduced the 5-HT-induced increase in SCC, but did not change basal SCC. 5-HT-induced a concentration-dependent release of PGE2. Only high concentrations of piroxicam and indomethacin reduced basal PGE2 release and 5-HT-induced PGE2 release. Histological examination of the specimens demonstrated only minor changes following mounting in chambers. There were no apparent differences in the morphology following treatment with COX or LOX inhibitors. These results suggest that in rat colon only the COX-1 enzyme is expressed under basal conditions. Furthermore, data suggest neither the COX-1 nor the COX-2 enzyme to be of major importance for 5-HT-induced ion transport in rat colon in vitro. In conclusion, this study supports 5-HT as a mediator of chloride secretion by activating several receptor subtypes and the LOX enzyme, releasing mediators such as leucotrienes.     

Dibutyryl-cAMP increases functions of 5-hydroxytryptamine2 receptors, but not of beta 2-adrenergic receptors, in a clonal cell line of rat neurotumor RT4.

A peripheral nervous system cell line RT4-B, established by Imada and Sueoka (Dev. Biol., 66:97-108, 1978), was shown to respond to serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] and catecholamines. 5-HT induced a small and transient increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in the RT4-B cells. The increase was effectively blocked by 5-HT2 receptor antagonists (spiperone, ritanserin and mianserin), but not by a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist (MDL72222), or a alpha 1-adrenergic receptor antagonist (prazosin), indicating that RT4-B cells express 5-HT2 receptors. On the other hand, catecholamines increased cyclic AMP production by RT4-B. The order of potency for stimulating cyclic AMP synthesis was isoproterenol greater than epinephrine much greater than norepinephrine much greater than dopamine, and the stimulation was effectively inhibited by the nonselective beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist propranolol, but not by the beta 1-adrenergic receptor antagonist atenolol, suggesting that RT4-B cells express beta 2-adrenergic receptors. The differentiating agent N6,2'-O-dibutyryladenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (dibutyryl-cAMP) enhanced the 5-HT-induced [Ca2+]i increase, but not the catecholamine-induced cyclic AMP production. The increase in the 5-HT response paralleled the increase in the density of 5-HT2 receptors. n-Butyric acid (2 mM) and 8-bromoadenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (1 mM) also increased the 5-HT response, and the sum of these increases was nearly equal to that induced by dibutyryl-cAMP. These results indicate that RT4-B is a novel model cell line for the study of 5-HT2 and beta 2-adrenergic receptors and their second messenger responses and for the analysis of the mechanisms how 5-HT2 receptor gene expression is controlled.     

Sustained pharmacological blockade of NK1 substance P receptors causes functional desensitization of dorsal raphe 5-HT 1A autoreceptors in mice

Antagonists at NK1 substance P receptors have demonstrated similar antidepressant properties in both animal paradigms and in human as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that induce desensitization of 5-HT 1A autoreceptors within the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). We investigated whether this receptor adaptation also occurs upon NK1 receptor blockade. C57B/L6J mice were treated for 21 days with the selective NK1 receptor antagonist GR 205171 (10 mg/kg daily) through subcutaneously implanted osmotic mini pumps, and DRN 5-HT 1A autoreceptor functioning was assessed using various approaches. Recording of DRN serotonergic neurons in brainstem slices showed that GR 205171 treatment reduced (by approximately 1.5 fold) the potency of the 5-HT 1A receptor agonist, ipsapirone, to inhibit cell firing. In parallel, the 5-HT 1A autoreceptor-mediated [35S]GTP-gamma-S binding induced by 5-carboxamidotryptamine onto the DRN in brainstem sections was significantly decreased in GR 205171-treated mice. In vivo microdialysis showed that the cortical 5-HT overflow caused by acute injection of the SSRI paroxetine (1 mg/kg) was twice as high in GR 205171-treated as in vehicle-treated controls. In the DRN, basal 5-HT outflow was significantly enhanced by GR 205171 treatment. These data supported the hypothesis that chronic NK1 receptor blockade induces a functional desensitization of 5-HT 1A autoreceptors similar to that observed with SSRIs.     

Vagal CCK and 5-HT(3) receptors are unlikely to mediate LPS or IL-1beta-induced fever

Previous studies suggested that peripheral immune mediators may involve intermediates acting on the vagus nerve, such as CCK or serotonin (5-HT). We have therefore investigated a possible role for vagal CCK-A and 5-HT(3) receptors in the febrile response after intraperitoneal human recombinant interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Unanesthetized, adult male rats instrumented with abdominal thermistors were given intraperitoneal CCK-8 sulfate (100 or 150 microgram/kg) or 2-methyl-5-hydroxytryptamine maleate (4 mg/kg). In other experiments, rats were treated with either antagonists to the 5-HT(3) receptor (ondansetron HCl; 100 microgram/kg) or the CCK-A receptor (L-364,718, 100 or 200 microgram/kg) in combination with LPS or IL-1beta. CCK administration caused a short-lived hypothermia, but interference with the action of endogenous CCK at CCK-A receptors was without effect on IL-1beta- or LPS-induced fever. Neither activation of 5-HT(3) receptors nor blockade of 5-HT(3) receptors affected body temperature or LPS fever. Taken together, our data support the idea that vagal afferents responsive to pyrogenic cytokines may be different from those responsive to CCK or 5-HT.     

Inotropic effects of prokinetic agents with 5-HT(4) receptor agonist actions on human isolated myocardial trabeculae

AimsBesides acting as gastrointestinal prokinetic agents, 5-hydroxytryptamine₄ (5-HT₄) receptor agonists can induce positive inotropism in human isolated atrium, but not in ventricles. We pharmacologically evaluated the gastroprokinetic 5-HT₄ receptor agonists tegaserod, prucalopride, R199715, cisapride, the cisapride metabolite norcisapride, and the 5-HT₃ receptor agonist MKC773 on human isolated myocardial trabeculae, and compared their effects with those induced by 5-HT and 5-methoxytryptamine (5-MeOT).Main methodsAtrial and ventricular trabeculae were paced and changes in contractile force were studied in the absence or presence of the 5-HT₄ receptor antagonist GR113808. Partial agonism was assessed using 5-HT₄ receptor agonists as antagonists against 5-HT. To test the contribution of L-type calcium channels, the inotropic responses to 5-HT and 5-MeOT were studied in the absence or presence of verapamil.Key findingsLike 5-HT and 5-MeOT, cisapride and tegaserod, but not prucalopride, R19971 and MKC­733, induced concentration-dependent positive inotropic responses on atrial trabeculae, which were abolished by GR113808. The L-type calcium channel blocker verapamil attenuated inotropic responses to 5-HT and 5-MeOT. None of the agonists affected the contraction of left ventricular trabeculae. Concentration response curves to 5-HT were shifted to the right in the presence of prucalopride, cisapride, tegaserod and R199715, but not MKC-773.SignificanceWe conclude that (i) inotropic responses to 5-HT and 5-MeOT seem to depend on L-type calcium channels, (ii) tegaserod and cisapride behave as partial 5-HT₄ receptor agonists, while prucalopride, norcisapride and MKC-733 cause no significant effects on human atrial trabeculae, (iii) R199715 seems to behave as a 5-HT₄ receptor antagonist.     

Peripheral 5-carboxamidotryptamine induces hindlimb scratching by stimulating 5-HT1A receptors in rats.

Treatment of rats with 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT) or 5-methoxy-tryptamine (5-MeOT) induces a hindlimb scratch response. These compounds have high affinity for 5-HT1A and 5-HT1D receptors. The selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist N,N-dipropyl-5-CT (DP-5-CT) also induced hindlimb scratching while the selective 5-HT1D receptor agonist, sumatriptan, did not. 5-CT-induced hindlimb scratching was inhibited dose-dependently by several 5-HT1A antagonists (BMY 7378, NAN-190, MDL 73005EF and pindobind-5-HT1A) as well as the non-selective 5-HT antagonist, methiothepin. Pretreatment of rats with the serotonin (5-HT) synthesis inhibitor, p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) or the 5-HT depleting agent, reserpine, markedly attenuated 5-CT-induced hindlimb scratching. These data suggest that hindlimb scratching induced by 5-HT agonists may not be centrally mediated but rather may be mediated by a neuronal 5-HT1A receptor localized outside the blood-brain barrier.     

5-HT induces duodenal mucosal bicarbonate secretion via cAMP- and Ca2+-dependent signaling pathways and 5-HT4 receptors in mice

In previous studies, we have found that 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a potent stimulant of duodenal mucosal bicarbonate secretion (DMBS) in mice. The aim of the present study was to determine the intracellular signaling pathways and 5-HT receptor subtypes involved in 5-HT-induced DMBS. Bicarbonate secretion by murine duodenal mucosa was examined in vitro in Ussing chambers. 5-HT receptor involvement in DMBS was inferred from pharmacological studies by using selective 5-HT receptor antagonists and agonists. The expression of 5-HT(4) receptor mRNA in duodenal mucosa and epithelial cells was analyzed by RT-PCR. cAMP-dependent signaling pathway inhibitors MDL-12330A, Rp-cAMP, and H-89 and Ca(2+)-dependent signaling pathway inhibitors verapamil and W-13 markedly reduced 5-HT-stimulated duodenal bicarbonate secretion and short-circuit current (I(sc)), whereas cGMP-dependent signaling pathway inhibitors NS-2028 and KT-5823 failed to alter these responses. Both SB-204070 and high-dose ICS-205930 (selective 5-HT(4) receptor antagonists) markedly inhibited 5-HT-stimulated bicarbonate secretion and I(sc), whereas methiothepine (5-HT(1) receptor antagonist), ketanserin (5-HT(2) receptor antagonist), and a low concentration of ICS-205930 (5-HT(3) receptor antagonist) had no effect. RS-67506 (partial 5-HT(4) receptor agonist) concentration-dependently increased bicarbonate secretion and I(sc), whereas 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-HT(1) receptor agonist), alpha-methyl-5-HT (5-HT(2) receptor agonist), and phenylbiguanide (5-HT(3) receptor agonist) did not significantly increase bicarbonate secretion or I(sc). RT-PCR analysis confirmed the expression of 5-HT(4) receptor mRNA in murine duodenal mucosa and epithelial cells. These results demonstrate that 5-HT regulates DMBS via both cAMP- and Ca(2+)-dependent signaling pathways and 5-HT(4) receptors located in the duodenal mucosa and/or epithelial cells.     

The role of 5-hydroxytryptamine3 and 5-hydroxytryptamine4 receptors in the regulation of gut motility in the ferret

The role of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)3 and 5-HT4 receptors in the regulation of gut motility in the ferret was investigated. The selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ramosetron (1 - 10 microg/kg s.c.) prolonged the interval of gastric antral migrating motor complex, but had only slight effect on small intestinal and colonic motility in unfed animals. The selective 5-HT4 receptor antagonist SB 204070 did not affect motility throughout gut in unfed animals. Neither ramosetron nor SB 204070 affected the motility throughout gut in fed animals. In conclusion, neither 5-HT3 nor 5-HT4 receptors tonically regulate ferret gut motility except that 5-HT3 receptors have a key role in the occurrence of migrating motor complex specifically in the stomach. The role of 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptor system in the regulation of gut motility in ferrets is similar to that in other mammalian species studied, including humans. This similarity suggests that the ferret is a suitable model animal to study gut motor functions in humans.     

5-Hydroxytryptamine and (+)-lysergic acid diethylamide displace [3H]thyrotropin-releasing hormone at its binding sites in the rat limbic forebrain

Binding of [3H]thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) to its receptors in the rat limbic forebrain was partially displaced by 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, ligand for 5-HT1 receptors) and (+)-lysergic acid diethylamide ((+)-LSD, ligand for 5-HT1 and 5-HT2 receptors) at nanomolar concentrations. Spiperone (ligand for 5-HT2 receptors) displaced [3H]TRH in a dose-dependent manner at micromolar concentrations. These results suggest that some TRH receptors are related to 5-HT1 receptors, probably adjoining them on the membrane. This type of TRH receptor is shown to be among the high-affinity receptors which we reported previously. The significance of the receptor-coexistence is such that TRH facilitates serotonergic transmission by increasing the density of 5-HT1 receptors. This finding seems to support a pharmacological observation of other investigators that TRH potentiates 5-HT-induced hyperactivity in mice, probably by affecting postsynaptic 5-HT receptors.     

Serotonergic modulation of murine fundic tone

Fundic tone is maintained through a balance of excitatory and inhibitory input to fundic smooth muscle. The aim of this study was to determine the role of serotonin (5-HT) and 5-HT receptors in modulating murine fundic tone. Muscle strips were prepared from the murine fundus. Intracellular recordings were made from circular smooth muscle cells, and the effects of 5-HT on tone and excitatory and inhibitory junction potentials evoked by electrical field stimulation (EFS) were determined. 5-HT induced a concentration-dependent contraction and smooth muscle depolarization that was tetrodotoxin resistant. The 5-HT(1B/D) receptor antagonists GR-127935 and BRL-155172 significantly inhibited 5-HT-induced contractions. The 5-HT(1B/D) agonist sumatriptan contracted murine fundic muscle. The 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist buspirone relaxed fundic smooth muscle, and the relaxation was inhibited by WAY-100135 but not by N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine or tetrodotoxin. 5-HT enhanced both the excitatory and inhibitory responses to EFS. The 5-HT(3) receptor antagonist MDL-72222 partly inhibited both the excitatory and inhibitory response elicited by EFS, whereas the 5-HT(4) receptor antagonist GR-113808 partly inhibited the EFS-evoked inhibitory response. The 5-HT reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine contracted smooth muscle strips, a contraction that was partially inhibited by GR-127935 and abolished by tetrodotoxin. In conclusion, the data suggest that 5-HT modulates murine fundic contractile activity through several different receptor subtypes. Sustained release of 5-HT maintains fundic tone through postjunctional 5-HT(1B/D) receptors. 5-HT(3) receptors modulate excitatory neural input to murine fundic smooth muscle, and both 5-HT(3) and 5-HT(4) receptors modulate inhibitory neural input to murine fundic smooth muscle.