sulprostone and butaprost

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) exerts various biological effects by binding to E-prostanoid receptors (EP1-4). Although recent studies have shown that PGE2 induces cell differentiation in some neuronal cells such as mouse DRG neurons and sensory neuron-like ND7/23 cells, it is unclear whether PGE2 plays a role in differentiation of motor neurons. In the present study, we investigated the mechanism of PGE2-induced differentiation of motor neurons using NSC-34, a mouse motor neuron-like cell line. Exposure of undifferentiated NSC-34 cells to PGE2 and butaprost, an EP2-selective agonist, resulted in a reduction of MTT reduction activity without increase the number of propidium iodide-positive cells and in an increase in the number of neurite-bearing cells. Sulprostone, an EP1/3 agonist, also significantly lowered MTT reduction activity by 20%; however, no increase in the number of neurite-bearing cells was observed within the concentration range tested. PGE2-induced neurite outgrowth was attenuated significantly in the presence of PF-0441848, an EP2-selective antagonist. Treatment of these cells with dibutyryl-cAMP increased the number of neurite-bearing cells with no effect on cell proliferation. These results suggest that PGE2 promotes neurite outgrowth and suppresses cell proliferation by activating the EP2 subtype, and that the cAMP-signaling pathway is involved in PGE2-induced differentiation of NSC-34 cells.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Bucladesine; Cell Differentiation; Cell Line; Cell Proliferation; Cyclic AMP; Dinoprostone; Mice; Motor Neurons; Neurites; Neuronal Outgrowth; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype; Signal Transduction

Endotoxin causes gastrointestinal motility disorder. Aim of this study is to clarify inhibitory mechanisms of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on smooth muscle contraction in rat ileum. Ileal tissues were isolated from control rat or from LPS-induced peritonitis model rat. Treatment with LPS inhibited carbachol (CCh)-mediated contraction in a time-dependent manner. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) genes were also upregulated, but iNOS expression was preceded by a rising of COX-2. All subtypes of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) receptors (EP1-EP4) were expressed in ileum, and PGE2 and selective EP2 or EP4 agonist inhibited CCh-mediated contraction. Selective iNOS inhibitor did not reverse LPS-induced inhibition of contraction by CCh at 1 and 2 hr, but reduced the inhibitory action at 4 hr after the LPS treatment. COX-2 inhibitor reversed the inhibitory action by LPS in all exposure time. Finally, in ileal tissues isolated from peritonitis model rat, iNOS expression was upregulated only at 4 hr after LPS administration, resulting in enhanced inhibitory action of LPS against CCh-induced contraction. In conclusion, LPS induces COX-2 to produce PGE2, which initially activates EP2 and/or EP4 on smooth muscle cells to inhibit the contractility in early phase of LPS exposure. Moreover, in late phase of LPS treatment, iNOS is expressed to produce NO, which in turn inhibited the contraction by CCh. The inhibitory cascade is similar in the ileum isolated from peritonitis model rat, indicating time-dependent changes of inhibitory action by LPS on intestinal motility in peritonitis.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Carbachol; Cyclooxygenase 2; Dinoprostone; Gastrointestinal Motility; Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic; Ileum; Lipopolysaccharides; Male; Muscle Contraction; Muscle, Smooth; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II; Peritonitis; Pyrrolidinones; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; RNA, Messenger; Time Factors

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is elevated during cardiac injury and we have previously shown that mice lacking the PGE2 EP4 receptor display dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with increased expression of the membrane type matrix metalloproteinase, MMP-14. We thus hypothesized that PGE2 regulates expression of MMP-14 and also affects fibroblast migration. Primary cultures of neonatal rat ventricular fibroblasts (NVFs) were used to test the effects of PGE2. Gene and protein expression was assessed by real time RT-PCR and Western blot, MMP activity was determined by zymography and migration of NVF was assessed by motility in a transwell system. PGE2 reduced expression of MMP-14 and these effects were antagonized by an EP4 antagonist. An EP4 agonist mimicked the effect of PGE2. PGE2 also increased mRNA and protein levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), an inhibitor of MMP activation. However, PGE2-stimulation of PAI-1 was mediated by the EP1/EP3 receptor and not EP4. Migration of NVF was assessed by motility in a transwell system. Treatment of NVFs with PGE2 reduced the number of cells migrating toward 10% FCS. Treatment with the EP2 agonist also reduced migration but did not affect MMP-14 expression or PAI-1. Our results suggest that PGE2 utilizes different receptors and mechanisms to ultimately decrease MMP expression and NVF migration.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Animals, Newborn; Cardiomyopathies; Cell Movement; Dinoprostone; Fibroblasts; Gene Expression Regulation; Male; Matrix Metalloproteinase 14; Methyl Ethers; Naphthalenes; Phenylbutyrates; Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1; Rats; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP4 Subtype; RNA, Messenger

Reports indicate that prostaglandin (PG)E(2) markedly enhances antigen-mediated degranulation in mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) but not in human mast cells (HuMCs). We have examined the underlying mechanism(s) for this disparity in HuMCs derived from the peripheral blood of multiple donors in addition to mouse BMMCs. HuMCs from half of these donors failed to respond to PGE(2) and the PGE(2) EP3 receptor agonist, sulprostone. However, HuMCs from the remaining donors and the LAD2 human MC line responded to PGE(2) and sulprostone with marked enhancement of antigen-mediated degranulation and IL-8 production in a similar manner to that observed in mouse BMMCs. The EP2 agonist, butaprost, failed to modulate antigen-mediated responses in any type of MCs. These distinct phenotypes could not be explained by differences in EP2 or EP3 expression nor by differences in the ability of PGE(2) to elevate levels of cAMP, a signal recognized to down-regulate mast cell activation. Moreover, both responder and non-responder HuMC populations exhibited similar activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and MAP kinases. However, translocation of PLCγ(1) to the cell membrane and the associated calcium signal were enhanced only in the responder HuMC population indicating that the link between EP3 and PLCγ is impaired in the non-responder HuMCs.. These data provide a cautionary note for the translating of observations in the mouse to human mast cell-dependent disorders, but may also provide a basis for examining the effects of co-activating receptors in patients susceptible to allergic conditions.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Cell Degranulation; Cell Line; Dinoprostone; Humans; Interleukin-8; Mast Cells; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases; Phospholipase C gamma; Protein Transport; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype; Signal Transduction; Species Specificity

The aim of this study was to determine whether the magnitude of the intraocular-pressure (IOP)-lowering response in monkeys to the nonselective prostaglandin (PG)F(2a)-isopropyl ester (ie) can be reproduced by combining other PG-subtype-selective compounds. IOP was lowered by approximately 25% after 4-5 days of topical administration with latanoprost (FP agonist, 1.5 microg, q.d.), bimatoprost (prostamide, whose metabolites have been shown to be FP agonists; 9 microg, q.d.), or travoprost (FP agonist, 1.2 microg, q.d) or the EP2 agonist, butaprost (25 microg, b.i.d.). The EP1 agonist, 17-phenyl trinor (PhT) PGE2 (b.i.d.), and EP3 agonist, sulprostone (b.i.d.), had no IOP-lowering effects. The addition of butaprost, sulprostone (10 microg), or 17PhTPGE2 (25 microg) to latanoprost did not lower IOP more than latanoprost alone. However, treatment with the combination of latanoprost, 17PhTPGE2, butaprost, and sulprostone produced a similar 50-55% reduction in IOP, as did PGF(2)alpha-ie (b.i.d.). In conclusion, latanoprost, travoprost, and bimatoprost produce similar IOP-lowering responses in normotensive monkeys and are most efficacious when administered q.d. pm, compared to b.i.d. The combination of the FP, EP1, EP2, and EP3 agonists used in this study was sufficient to lower IOP by the same magnitude as PGF(2)alpha-ie, suggesting that combining PG-subtype agonists may be a potent antiglaucoma strategy.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Alprostadil; Amides; Animals; Antihypertensive Agents; Bimatoprost; Cloprostenol; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Administration Schedule; Drug Combinations; Drug Therapy, Combination; Humans; Intraocular Pressure; Latanoprost; Macaca fascicularis; Male; Ophthalmic Solutions; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Tonometry, Ocular; Travoprost

The inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1) decreases mineralisation by immortalized mouse-derived cementoblastic cells (OC-CM cells), whilst various prostanoids, including fluprostenol (flup) increase it. Subtraction hybridisation conducted on flup minus IL-1-treated OC-CM cells revealed that one of the primary response genes preferentially induced by flup is the transcription factor Nur77. The objective of this study was to examine the signal transduction cascades regulating prostanoid induction of Nur77 gene expression in OC-CM cells.. Confluent OC-CM cells were treated with prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)), specific activators of the various EP prostanoid receptors and of the FP prostanoid receptor, and direct activators/inhibitors of the cyclic AMP-protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C (PKC) and intracellular calcium pathways. Nur77 gene expression was examined by mRNA extraction and Northern blot analysis.. PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha) treatment of OC-CM cells significantly increased Nur77 mRNA expression in a time- and dose-dependent fashion. Both the EP1 prostanoid receptor-specific activator 16,16-dimethyl-PGE(2) and the FP prostanoid receptor-specific activator flup significantly increased Nur77 gene expression by OC-CM cells as compared to vehicle-treated controls. Increase in Nur77 gene expression was also observed when direct activators of the PKA, PKC and intracellular calcium pathways were used to treat OC-CM cells. Direct inhibition of the PKA, PKC and intracellular calcium pathways abrogated Nur77 gene expression induced by OC-CM cell treatment with PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha).. Nur77 is a primary gene expressed by OC-CM cells and its induction appears to be mediated by the PKA, PKC and intracellular calcium pathways. Nur77 may affect expression of downstream target genes in OC-CM cells and partially regulate cementoblast cell function.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Calcium Signaling; Cells, Cultured; Colforsin; Cyclic AMP; Cyclic AMP-Dependent Protein Kinases; Dental Cementum; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Gene Expression Regulation; Mice; Misoprostol; Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4, Group A, Member 1; Prostaglandins; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Protein Kinase C; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Signal Transduction; Time Factors

Gastric emptying depends on functional coupling of slow waves between the corpus and antrum, to allow slow waves initiated in the gastric corpus to propagate to the pyloric sphincter and generate gastric peristalsis. Functional coupling depends on a frequency gradient where slow waves are generated at higher frequency in the corpus and drive the activity of distal pacemakers. Simultaneous intracellular recording from corpus and antrum was used to characterize the effects of PGE(2) on slow waves in the murine stomach. PGE(2) increased slow-wave frequency, and this effect was mimicked by EP(3), but not by EP(2), receptor agonists. Chronotropic effects were due to EP(3) receptors expressed by intramuscular interstitial cells of Cajal because these effects were not observed in W/W(V) mice. Although the integrated chronotropic effects of EP(3) receptor agonists were deduced from electrophysiological experiments, no clear evidence of functional uncoupling was observed with two-point electrical recording. Gastric peristalsis was also monitored by video imaging and spatiotemporal maps to study the impact of chronotropic agonists on propagating contractions. EP(3) receptor agonists increased the frequency of peristaltic contractions and caused ectopic sites of origin and collisions of peristaltic waves. The impact of selective regional application of chronotropic agonists was investigated by use of a partitioned bath. Antral slow waves followed enhanced frequencies induced by stimulation of the corpus, and corpus slow waves followed when slow-wave frequency was elevated in the antrum. This demonstrated reversal of slow-wave propagation with selective antral chronotropic stimulation. These studies demonstrate the impact of chronotropic agonists on regional intrinsic pacemaker frequency and integrated gastric peristalsis.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Biological Clocks; Dibenz(b,f)(1,4)oxazepine-10(11H)-carboxylic acid, 8-chloro-, 2-acetylhydrazide; Dinoprostone; Membrane Potentials; Mice; Mice, Inbred BALB C; Mice, Mutant Strains; Muscle, Smooth; Peristalsis; Prostaglandins; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Pyloric Antrum; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP1 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype; Stomach

The study was designed to determine the prostaglandin EP receptor subtypes functionally involved in electrogenic ion secretion in rat colon. With 30 rats, measurements of short circuit current (SCC) and slope conductance were obtained by Ussing chamber technique. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE(2)) and other EP receptor selective agonists were employed on stripped rat colon pre-treated with indomethacin and theophylline. Receptor-specific agonists were butaprost (EP(2)), sulprostone (EP(1) and EP(3)) and PGE(1) alcohol (OH-PGE(1)) (EP(4)). GW627368X was used as a specific EP(4) receptor antagonist. Forskolin-induced SCC was used as a control of tissue viability. The mean basal SCC was 24.5 +/- 0.9 microA/cm(2) (range 9.8-45.1), and mean basal slope conductance was 23.7 +/- 6.1 mS/cm(2) (range 9.7-39.8). The basal SCC decreased after pre-treatment with indomethacin and increased after pre-treatment with theophylline. PGE(2), butaprost and OH-PGE(1) stimulated maximal increase in SCC (55.8 +/- 4.1, 43.9 +/- 3.8 and 93.9 +/- 2.7 microA/cm(2), respectively), while sulprostone had no apparent effects. GW627368X eliminated OH-PGE(1)-induced SCC and partially PGE(2)-induced SCC, leaving butaprost-induced SCC almost unperturbed. Bumetanide, 20 microM, inhibited between 40% and 80% of the agonist-induced changes in SCC. In conclusion, compilation of the results on induced SCC by subtype specific receptor agonists for EP receptors and the pattern of induced SCCs inhibited by GW627368X indicate the EP(4) receptor subtype as the major mediator of PGE(2)-induced electrogenic ion secretion with a lesser induction through the EP(2) receptor subtype.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Colon; Dinoprostone; In Vitro Techniques; Ion Transport; Ions; Isoindoles; Male; Patch-Clamp Techniques; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP4 Subtype; Sulfonamides

Orofacial inflammation is associated with prostaglandin release and the sensitization of nociceptive receptors such as the transient receptor potential subtype V(1) (TRPV(1)). We hypothesized that certain PGE(2) receptor subtypes (EP1-EP4) are co-expressed with TRPV(1) in trigeminal nociceptors and sensitize responses to a TRPV(1) agonist, capsaicin. Accordingly, combined in situ hybridization was performed with immunohistochemistry on rat trigeminal ganglia. We next evaluated the effects of specific EP2 and EP3 agonists (butaprost and sulprostone) in cultured trigeminal ganglia neurons. The results showed that EP2 and EP3 are expressed in trigeminal neurons (58% and 53% of total neurons, respectively) and are co-expressed in TRPV(1)-positive neurons (64% and 67 % of TRPV(1)-positive neurons, respectively). Moreover, most of the cells expressing EP2 or EP3 mRNA were of small to medium diameter (< 30 microm). The application of butaprost and sulprostone triggered neuropeptide exocytosis, and butaprost sensitized capsaicin responses. Analysis of these data, collectively, supports the hypothesis that prostaglandins regulate trigeminal TRPV(1) nociceptors via activation of the EP2 and EP3 receptors.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Capsaicin; Cell Size; Cells, Cultured; Dinoprostone; Exocytosis; Immunohistochemistry; In Situ Hybridization; Male; Neurons; Neuropeptides; Nociceptors; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype; Trigeminal Ganglion; TRPV Cation Channels

The cyclooxygenase-prostanoid pathway regulates myometrial contractility through activation of prostanoid receptors on uterine smooth muscles. However, the possible expression of prostanoid receptors on autonomic nerves cannot be excluded completely. The aim of the present study was to clarify the presence of neural prostanoid receptors on adrenergic nerves in the porcine uterine longitudinal muscle. In [(3)H]-noradrenaline-loaded longitudinal muscle strips of porcine uterus, electrical field stimulation (EFS) evoked [(3)H]-noradrenaline release in a stimulation frequency-dependent manner. The EFS-evoked release was completely abolished in Ca(2+)-free (EGTA, 1mM) incubation medium and by tetrodotoxin or omega-conotoxin GVIA, suggesting that [(3)H]-noradrenaline was released from neural components. The EFS-evoked [(3)H]-noradrenaline release was significantly enhanced by treatment with indomethacin. In the presence of indomethacin, PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha), but not PGD(2), inhibited the EFS-evoked [(3)H]-noradrenaline release. Of synthetic prostanoid receptor agonists examined, both U46619 (TP) and sulprostone (EP(1)/EP(3)) decreased the EFS-evoked [(3)H]-noradrenaline release in a concentration-dependent manner, while fluprostenol (FP), BW245C (DP) and butaprost (EP(2)) were almost ineffective. SQ29548 (TP receptor antagonist) blocked the effect of U46619, but SC19220 (EP(1) receptor antagonist) did not change the inhibition by sulprostone or PGE(2). Double immunofluorescence staining using protein gene product 9.5, tyrosine hydroxylase, EP(3) receptor and TP receptor antibodies suggested the localization of EP(3) or TP receptors on adrenergic nerves in the porcine uterus. These results indicated that neural EP(3) and TP receptors are present on adrenergic nerves of the porcine uterine longitudinal muscle. Endogenous prostanoid produced by cyclooxygenase can regulate noradrenaline release in an inhibitory manner through activation of these neural prostanoid receptors.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Alprostadil; Animals; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Electric Stimulation; Female; In Vitro Techniques; Microscopy, Confocal; Microscopy, Fluorescence; Myometrium; Neurons; Norepinephrine; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Receptors, Androgen; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Swine

Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) has been shown to have a strong cytoprotective effect, inhibiting apoptosis. In the present study, we evaluated whether PGE(2) has a protective effect on cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced apoptosis in human lung fibroblasts. Apoptosis was assessed by various methods, including DNA content analysis. CSE (15%-20%) led to apoptosis and induced imbalance in favor of pro- over anti-apoptotic protein expression and activated caspases. PGE(2) blocked CSE-induced apoptosis and modulated the balance of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins and decreased the activation of caspases. This anti-apoptotic effect was mediated via EP(2) receptor activation as the EP(2) agonist butaprost mimicked PGE(2) activity and siRNA for the EP(2) receptor blocked it. An adenylyl cyclase inhibitor was found to abolish the PGE(2)-mediated cytoprotective effect. Correspondingly, c-AMP analogs blocked CSE-induced apoptosis. Consistently, the protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor KT-5720 abolished PGE(2)-mediated protection. PGE(2) and butaprost phosphorylated Bad and KT-5720 blocked phosphorylation. These results suggest that PGE(2) inhibits CSE-induced apoptosis via EP(2) receptor activation and activation of PKA, which leads to an alteration in the balance between pro- and anti-apoptotic factors. Through such a mechanism, PGE(2) may alter survival of cells in the smoke-exposed lungs, thus affecting the pathogenesis of cigarette smoke-induced disease.

Topics: Adenylyl Cyclase Inhibitors; Adenylyl Cyclases; Alprostadil; Apoptosis; Carbazoles; Caspases; Cell Line; Cyclic AMP-Dependent Protein Kinases; Dideoxyadenosine; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Activation; Enzyme Inhibitors; Fibroblasts; Humans; Indoles; Lung; Nicotiana; Pyrroles; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; RNA, Small Interfering; Signal Transduction; Smoke; Thiophenes; Triazoles

Assessment of functional EP receptor subtypes involved in PGE2-induced secretion in human duodenum. The spectrum of activities by PGE2 in mammals, including cytoprotective bicarbonate secretion in duodenum, is mediated through four G protein-coupled receptor subtypes (EP1-EP4).. Biopsies from the second part of duodenum from patients undergoing endoscopy were mounted in modified Ussing chambers. Basal and stimulated short circuit current (SCC) and slope conductance (SG) were measured. Dose-response relations for PGE2 and subtype receptors EP1/EP3 (sulprostone), EP2 (butaprost), and EP4 (1-OH PGE1) were assessed by cumulated doses of single agonists.. PGE2 caused a dose-dependent increase in SCC, maximum 101 +/- 20 microA cm(-2) with an EC50 of 35.6 +/- 5.8 nm (n = 3). Likewise 1-OH PGE1 caused a dose-dependent SCC increase, maximum 63.3 +/- 28.6 microA cm(-2) with an EC50 of 56.7 +/- 7.2 nm (n = 3). 1-OH PGE1 at 500 nm increased SCC by 18.0 +/- 3.0 microA cm(-2) (n = 10) and SG by 2.9 +/- 0.4 mS cm(-2) (n = 6). Sulprostone (n = 6) and butaprost (n = 6) had no effects on SCC or SG. SCC was inhibited 31.4 +/- 13.2% (n = 10) by bumetanide (25 microM serosa) and 18.6 +/- 5.8% (n = 10) by acetazolamide (250 microM lumen). Diphenylamine-2-carboxylate (DPC) (250 microM mucosa) and SITS (10 microM mucosa) had almost no effect.. Effects of PGE2 on secretion in the second part of human duodenum is mediated through the EP4 receptor and not through EP1, EP2, or EP3.

Topics: 4-Acetamido-4'-isothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic Acid; Acetazolamide; Alprostadil; Bicarbonates; Chlorides; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Duodenum; Humans; ortho-Aminobenzoates; Prostaglandins; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP4 Subtype

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with gliosis, neuroinflammation and higher levels of prostaglandins. Conflicting roles for cyclooxygenases and prostaglandins in the etiopathology of AD have been reported. We hypothesized that PGE2 signaling through EP2 and EP4 G-protein-coupled receptors could protect against amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta) neurotoxicity by increasing the cAMP signaling cascade. Using primary neuronal cultures, we investigated the presence of EP receptors (EP1-4) and the action of PGE2 and EP receptor agonists on neuronal susceptibility to Abeta1-42 toxicity. Low concentrations (1 microm) of PGE2, butaprost (EP2 agonist), and 1-hydroxy-PGE1 (EP4/EP3 agonist) were neuroprotective against Abeta1-42 toxicity, while sulprostone (EP3/EP1 agonist) at similar doses had no detectable effects. EP2 and EP4 receptor-mediated neuroprotection would involve changes in cAMP levels, as both EP2 and EP4 agonists increased intracellular cAMP concentration by approximately doubling basal levels, and both exhibited neuroprotective actions against Abeta-induced toxicity. The protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor RpcAMPS significantly attenuated the neuroprotection by butaprost, but not that by 1-hydroxy-PGE1, implying differences between EP2 and EP4 receptor protective mechanisms. Additionally, the increase in reactive oxygen species generated following exposure to Abeta was reduced by stimulation of both EP2 and EP4 receptors. Together, these results indicate that PGE2 can protect neurons against Abeta toxicity by acting on given receptors and stimulating a cascade of intracellular events, including the cAMP-PKA pathway. We propose that development and testing of specific PGE2 receptor agonists downstream of cyclooxygenase could lead to therapeutic applications.

Topics: Adenosine Diphosphate; Alprostadil; Amyloid beta-Peptides; Animals; Animals, Newborn; Blotting, Western; Cell Death; Cell Survival; Cerebral Cortex; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Interactions; Enzyme Inhibitors; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Neurons; Oxidative Stress; Peptide Fragments; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP4 Subtype

Synthesis of interferon (IFN)-gamma by natural killer (NK) cells is an important pro-inflammatory event with interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-18 playing major inductive roles. However, other temporal events are likely to regulate such processes and as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is ubiquitous during inflammation this study tested the hypothesis that PGE2 was capable of directly modulating cytokine-induced NK cell IFN-gamma synthesis in the absence of other immune cells. Using homogeneous NK cell lines to establish direct effects, PGE2 (0.1-1 micro m) was found to suppress NK cell IFN-gamma synthesis and antagonized the potent synergistic IFN-gamma-inducing effects of IL-12 and IL-18. The actions of PGE2 were mimicked by synthetic PGE2 analogues including misoprostol and butaprost. The selective EP2 receptor agonist butaprost, but not the EP1/EP3 agonist sulprostone, suppressed IFN-gamma synthesis and exclusively competed with PGE2 for receptor binding on NK cells. Further analysis showed that PGE2 did not modulate IL-12 receptor mRNA expression and the effects of PGE2 could be mimicked by the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-iosobutyl-1-methylxanthine. The absence of demonstrable receptor modulation coupled with the observed suppression of IFN-gamma synthesis by both EP2 receptor-selective agonists and IBMX suggest that PGE2 acts directly on NK cells via EP2 receptors with its downstream effects on cAMP metabolism. This conclusion is further supported by findings that PGE2 and its analogues consistently elevated levels of cAMP in NK cells. The ability of PGE2 to antagonize the potent inductive signal provided by the combination of IL-12 and IL-18 supports the concept that PGE2 may play an important role in limiting innate inflammatory processes in vivo through direct suppression of NK cell IFN-gamma synthesis.

Topics: 1-Methyl-3-isobutylxanthine; Abortifacient Agents, Steroidal; Alprostadil; Animals; Cell Line; Cyclic AMP; Dinoprostone; Interferon-gamma; Interleukin-12; Interleukin-18; Killer Cells, Natural; Mice; Misoprostol; Oxytocics; Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Receptors, Interferon; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype

Interleukin-23, a recently described cytokine produced by activated antigen-presenting cells, including dendritic cells, is a p19/p40 heterodimer. The p40 subunit is shared with IL-12, the major Th1-driving cytokine, while p19 is distantly related to IL-12 p35. IL-23 has pro-inflammatory actions, inducing IL-17 secretion from activated CD4+ T cells, and stimulating the proliferation of memory CD4+ T cells. Here, we examined the effects of PGE2, a well-known immunomodulator, on the production of IL-23 by bone marrow- derived dendritic cells (BM-DCs). Our results indicate that PGE2 increases the production of functional IL-23 from immature BM-DCs in a time- and dose-dependent manner. PGE2 induces both the expression of p19 and p40, without affecting p35 expression. The effect of PGE2 is mediated through the specific receptors EP2/4 and is mimicked by cAMP-inducing agents, such as forskolin and dbcAMP. Although PGE2 also induces IL-1beta and IL-6 expression in non-stimulated DCs, the stimulatory effect of PGE2 on IL-23 production is not mediated through IL-1beta or IL-6. GM-CSF, the pro-inflammatory cytokine required for the generation of BM-DCs, amplifies the IL-23 inducing activity of PGE2 in a synergistic manner. Recent studies described both pro- and anti-inflammatory effects of PGE2, and our results suggest an additional mechanism for its pro-inflammatory role, particularly significant for autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Arthritis; Bone Marrow Cells; Bucladesine; CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes; Cell Line, Tumor; Cells, Cultured; Colforsin; Culture Media, Conditioned; Cyclic AMP; Dendritic Cells; Dinoprostone; Gene Expression Regulation; Inflammation; Interleukin-12; Interleukin-12 Subunit p35; Interleukin-12 Subunit p40; Interleukin-17; Interleukin-23; Interleukin-23 Subunit p19; Interleukins; Lipopolysaccharides; Male; Mice; Misoprostol; Plasmacytoma; Prostaglandin Antagonists; Protein Subunits; Receptors, Cell Surface; Second Messenger Systems; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms; Toll-Like Receptor 2; Toll-Like Receptor 4

Recent studies suggest that the inducible isoform of cyclooxygenase, COX-2, promotes motor neuron loss in rodent models of ALS. We investigated the effects of PGE2, a principal downstream prostaglandin product of COX-2 activity, on motor neuron survival in an organotypic culture model of ALS. We find that PGE2 paradoxically protects motor neurons at physiological concentrations in this model. PGE2 exerts its downstream effects by signaling through a class of four distinct G-protein-coupled E-prostanoid receptors (EP1-EP4) that have divergent effects on cAMP. EP2 and EP3 are dominantly expressed in ventral spinal cord in neurons and astrocytes, and activation of these receptor subtypes individually or in combination also rescued motor neurons. The EP2 receptor is positively coupled to cAMP, and its neuroprotection was mimicked by application of forskolin and blocked by inhibition of PKA, suggesting that its protective effect is mediated by downstream effects of cAMP. Conversely, the EP3 receptor is negatively coupled to cAMP, and its neuroprotective effect was blocked by pertussis toxin, suggesting that its protective effect is dependent on Gi-coupled heterotrimeric signaling. Taken together, these data demonstrate an unexpected neuroprotective effect mediated by PGE2, in which activation of its EP2 and EP3 receptors protected motor neurons from chronic glutamate toxicity.

Topics: Alprostadil; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis; Animals; Animals, Newborn; Astrocytes; Cell Count; Cyclic AMP; Dinoprostone; Disease Models, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Interactions; Enzyme Inhibitors; Immunohistochemistry; Motor Neurons; Neurofilament Proteins; Organ Culture Techniques; Pertussis Toxin; Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases; Proto-Oncogene Proteins; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Spinal Cord; Statistics, Nonparametric

Intrathecal administration of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) produces mechanical hyperalgesia, thermal hyperalgesia, and touch-evoked allodynia in rats. Experiments were conducted to examine the effects of intrathecal administration of relatively selective PGE(2) receptor (EP receptor) agonists to establish which spinal EP receptors mediate these behavioral effects of spinally administered PGE(2). Administration of either sulprostone (EP(3) receptor agonist) or PGE(1) alcohol (EP(4) receptor agonist) produced marked mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia and touch-evoked allodynia. Neither 17-phenyl trinor PGE(2) (EP(1) receptor agonist) nor butaprost (EP(2) receptor agonist) produced any significant changes in behavioral response thresholds to mechanical or thermal stimuli. However, 17-phenyl trinor PGE(2) (EP(1) receptor agonist) did produce marked touch-evoked allodynia. These data suggest that in rats activation of spinal EP(3) and EP(4) receptors by PGE(2) is important for development of both mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia as well as for touch-evoked allodynia. PGE(2)-induced allodynia also appears to involve activation of spinal EP(1) receptors.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Behavior, Animal; Catheterization; Dinoprostone; Hot Temperature; Hyperalgesia; Male; Physical Stimulation; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Spinal Cord

The present studies were performed to determine the contribution of EP(2) receptors to renal hemodynamics by examining afferent arteriolar responses to PGE(2), butaprost, sulprostone, and endothelin-1 in EP(2) receptor-deficient male mice (EP(2)-/-). Afferent arteriolar diameters averaged 17.8 +/- 0.8 microm in wild-type (EP(2)+/+) mice and 16.7 +/- 0.7 microm in EP(2)-/- mice at a renal perfusion pressure of 100 mmHg. Vessels from both groups of mice responded to norepinephrine (0.5 microM) with similar 17-19% decreases in diameter. Diameters of norepinephrine-preconstricted afferent arterioles increased by 7 +/- 2 and 20 +/- 6% in EP(2)+/+ mice in response to 1 microM PGE(2) and 1 microM butaprost, respectively. In contrast, afferent arteriolar diameter of EP(2)-/- mice decreased by 13 +/- 3 and 16 +/- 6% in response to PGE(2) and butaprost. The afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction to butaprost in EP(2)-/- mice was eliminated by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition. Sulprostone, an EP(1) and EP(3) receptor ligand, decreased afferent arteriolar diameter in both groups; however, the vasoconstriction in the EP(2)-/- mice was greater than in the EP(2)+/+ mice. Endothelin-1-mediated afferent arteriolar diameter responses were enhanced in EP(2)-/- mice. Afferent arteriolar diameter decreased by 29 +/- 7% in EP(2)-/- and 12 +/- 7% in EP(2)+/+ mice after administration of 1 nM endothelin-1. These results demonstrate that the EP(2) receptor mediates a portion of the PGE(2) afferent arteriolar vasodilation and buffers the renal vasoconstrictor responses elicited by EP(1) and EP(3) receptor activation as well as endothelin-1.

Topics: Alprostadil; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; Animals; Arterioles; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; Dinoprostone; Endothelin-1; Kidney; Male; Mice; Mice, Knockout; Norepinephrine; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Vasoconstriction

1. Since the role of prostanoid receptors in intestinal peristalsis is largely unknown, the peristaltic motor effects of some prostaglandin (DP, EP, IP), thromboxane (TP) and leukotriene (LT) receptor agonists and antagonists were investigated. 2. Propulsive peristalsis in fluid-perfused segments from the guinea-pig small intestine was triggered by a rise of the intraluminal pressure and recorded via the intraluminal pressure changes associated with the peristaltic waves. Alterations of distension sensitivity were deduced from alterations of the peristaltic pressure threshold and modifications of peristaltic performance were reflected by modifications of the amplitude, maximal acceleration and residual baseline pressure of the peristaltic waves. 3. Four categories of peristaltic motor effects became apparent: a decrease in distension sensitivity and peristaltic performance as induced by the EP1/EP3 receptor agonist sulprostone and the TP receptor agonist U-46619 (1-1000 nM); a decrease in distension sensitivity without a major change in peristaltic performance as induced by PGD(2) (3-300 nM) and LTD(4) (10-100 nM); a decrease in peristaltic performance without a major change in distension sensitivity as induced by PGE(1), PGE(2) (1-1000 nM) and the EP1/IP receptor agonist iloprost (1-100 nM); and a decrease in peristaltic performance associated with an increase in distension sensitivity as induced by the EP2 receptor agonist butaprost (1-1000 nM). The DP receptor agonist BW-245 C (1-1000 nM) was without effect. 4. The peristaltic motor action of sulprostone remained unchanged by the EP1 receptor antagonist SC-51089 (1 micro M) and the DP/EP1/EP2 receptor antagonist AH-6809 (30 micro M), whereas that of U-46619 and LTD(4) was prevented by the TP receptor antagonist SQ-29548 (10 micro M) and the cysteinyl-leukotriene(1) (cysLT(1)) receptor antagonist tomelukast (10 micro M), respectively. 5. These observations and their pharmacological analysis indicate that activation of EP2, EP3, IP, TP and cysLT(1) receptors, but not DP receptors, modulate intestinal peristalsis in a receptor-selective manner, whereas activation of EP1 seems to be without influence on propulsive peristalsis. In a wider perspective it appears as if the effect of prostanoid receptor agonists to induce diarrhoea is due to their prosecretory but not peristaltic motor action.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Alprostadil; Animals; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Female; Guinea Pigs; Hydantoins; Hydrazines; Iloprost; In Vitro Techniques; Intestine, Small; Leukotriene Antagonists; Leukotriene D4; Male; Oxazepines; Peristalsis; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins A; Receptors, Leukotriene; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Xanthenes; Xanthones; Yohimbine

Up-regulation of neuronal cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the elevation in prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) have been reported to occur after cerebral ischemic insult. To evaluate whether the COX-2 reaction product PGE(2) is directly related to induction of apoptosis in neuronal cells, the effect of PGE(2) on cell viability was examined in rat cortical cells. PGE(2) induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner (5-25 microM) 48 h after addition to the cells, which was characterized by cell shrinkage, nuclear condensation or fragmentation, and internucleosomal DNA fragmentation. Neither 17-phenyl trinor-prostaglandin E(2) (an EP1 agonist) or sulprostone (an EP3 agonist) induced cell death, whereas butaprost (an EP2 agonist) induced apoptotic cell death. In addition, PGE(2) activated caspase-3 in a time-dependent manner until 24 h after treatment. The apoptosis induced by PGE(2) was prevented by a caspase-3 inhibitor in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate also induced apoptotic cell death in a dose-dependent manner (20-100 microM). These results suggest that PGE(2), acting via an EP2-like receptor, induces apoptosis in neurons.

Topics: Adenylyl Cyclases; Alprostadil; Animals; Apoptosis; Brain Ischemia; Bucladesine; Caspase 3; Caspase Inhibitors; Caspases; Cells, Cultured; Cerebral Cortex; Cyclic AMP; Cyclooxygenase 2; Cysteine Proteinase Inhibitors; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Activation; Isoenzymes; Nerve Tissue Proteins; Prostaglandin Antagonists; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Rats; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP1 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype; Second Messenger Systems; Signal Transduction

We previously demonstrated that the mouse EP3beta receptor and its C-terminal tail-truncated receptor (abbreviated T-335) expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells showed agonist-dependent and fully constitutive Gi activity in forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation, respectively. Here we examined the effect of the EP3beta receptor or T-335 receptor on adenylyl cyclase activity stimulated by the Gs-coupled EP2 subtype receptor in COS-7 cells. As a result, sulprostone, a selective EP3 agonist, dose dependently augmented butaprost-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity in EP3beta receptor- or T-335 receptor-expressing COS-7 cells. However, such adenylyl cyclase augmentation was not attenuated by either pertussis toxin treatment or expression of the PH domain of rat betaARK1, which serves as a scavenger of Gbetagamma subunits, but was partially attenuated by treatment with either 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid tetra(acetoxymethyl)ester, an intracellular Ca(2+) chelator, or W-7, a calmodulin inhibitor. These findings suggest that the C-terminal tail of the EP3beta receptor is not essentially involved in activation of EP2 receptor-stimulated adenylyl cyclase in a Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent but Gbetagamma subunit-independent manner.

Topics: Adenosine Diphosphate; Adenylate Cyclase Toxin; Adenylyl Cyclases; Alprostadil; Animals; Calcium; Calmodulin; Cell Membrane; Chelating Agents; Cloning, Molecular; COS Cells; Cyclic AMP; Dinoprostone; DNA, Complementary; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Egtazic Acid; Enzyme Inhibitors; GTP-Binding Protein alpha Subunits, Gi-Go; Pertussis Toxin; Prostaglandins; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Protein Structure, Tertiary; Rats; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP3 Subtype; Sulfonamides; Virulence Factors, Bordetella

Cumulative concentration-effect curves for prostaglandin E(2), sulprostone and butaprost were constructed in matched strips of human non-pregnant myometrium from 14 different donors. All samples were obtained from the mid-lateral wall of the uterus. Prostaglandin E(2) produced four types of concentration-effect curves: monophasic inhibitory (n = 7), monophasic excitatory (n = 2), biphasic consisting of an excitatory phase followed by an inhibitory phase (n = 4), and biphasic consisting of an inhibitory phase followed by an excitatory phase (n = 1). Sulprostone produced excitation of spontaneous contractile activity in all tissues (mean pEC(50) = 9.1+/-0.2, range 8.1-10.1, n = 14). Butaprost produced relaxation of cloprostenol-stimulated contractile activity in all tissues (mean pEC(50) = 5.7 +/- 0.1, range 5.0-6.9, n = 14). The mean pEC(50) value for sulprostone was significantly higher in tissues where prostaglandin E(2) caused some excitation (pEC(50) = 9.4 +/- 0.2, n = 7) compared to those where prostaglandin E(2) caused only inhibition (pEC(50) = 8.8 +/- 0.2, n = 7). Mean pEC(50) values for butaprost were not significantly different between these groups. These data suggest that (a) variability in EP receptor-mediated responses exists within a single anatomical site; (b) both excitatory and inhibitory EP receptor-mediated pathways are always operative in human non-pregnant myometrium, regardless of the type of tissue response to prostaglandin E(2); and (c) regulation of EP receptor-mediated responses occurs predominantly in the excitatory (EP(3) or EP(1) receptor) pathway rather than the inhibitory (EP(2) receptor) pathway.

Topics: Adult; Alprostadil; Cloprostenol; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Muscle Contraction; Myometrium

In the present study, we examined whether prostaglandin (PG) E2 and PGI2 regulated intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression in human oral gingival epithelial cells stimulated with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha). TNF alpha potently induced ICAM-1 expression in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. PGE2 and carbacyclin (a stable analogue of PGI2) significantly decreased ICAM-1 expression in TNF alpha-challenged oral gingival epithelial cells. Next, of the four subtypes of PGE2 receptors (EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4), we examined which subtype(s) mediated inhibition of TNF alpha-induced ICAM-1 expression by PGE2. 11-deoxy-PGE2, an EP2/EP4 agonist, significantly suppressed TNF alpha-induced ICAM-1 expression, whereas butaprost, an EP2 agonist, sulprostone, an EP1/EP3 agonist, and ONO-AP-324, an EP3 agonist, caused no effect on it. By reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, expression of EP4 mRNA was detected in oral gingival epithelial cells. Dibutyryl cAMP, a cAMP analogue, and forskolin, a direct activator of adenylate cyclase, significantly inhibited TNF alpha-induced ICAM-1 expression in oral gingival epithelial cells. From these results, we suggest that PGE2 and PGI2 inhibit TNF alpha-elicited ICAM-1 expression by cAMP-dependent pathways via EP4 receptors and IP receptors, respectively.

Topics: Acetates; Adult; Alprostadil; Analysis of Variance; Benzhydryl Compounds; Bucladesine; Colforsin; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Down-Regulation; Epithelial Cells; Epoprostenol; Gene Expression Regulation; Gingiva; Humans; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; Time Factors; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

High glucose reportedly stimulates prostaglandin (PG) E2 production and DNA synthesis in mesangial cells (MCs). However, the pathophysiological significance of PGE2 in MCs has remained unclear.. The effects of prostanoids on [3H]-thymidine uptake and cAMP production in rat MCs cultured with 5.6 mM glucose, 25 mM glucose, or 5.6 mM glucose supplemented with 19.4 mM mannitol were examined. The gene expression of PGE2 receptor (EP) subtypes in MCs was analyzed with Northern blotting techniques.. Northern blotting indicated EP1 and EP4 gene expression in MCs. EP1 agonists and PGE2 stimulated [3H]-thymidine uptake in MCs. EP1 antagonists dose dependently attenuated high-glucose-induced [3H]-thymidine uptake, which suggests EP1 involvement, by an increase in intracellular Ca2+, in DNA synthesis of MCs. On the other hand, forskolin, db-cAMP, and 11-deoxy-PGE1, an EP4/EP3/EP2 agonist, significantly decreased DNA synthesis in MCs. These inhibitory effects are thought to be mediated via EP4 as a result of an increase in cAMP synthesis. The effects via EP4 seem to be particularly important because PGE2-induced cAMP synthesis was significantly attenuated in the high-glucose group compared with the mannitol group, in which [3H]-thymidine uptake did not increase in spite of augmented PGE2 production.. The increase in DNA synthesis in MCs under high-glucose conditions can be explained, at least in part, by the high-glucose-induced inhibition of cAMP production via EP4, which augments EP1 function in conjunction with the overproduction of PGE2.

Topics: 1-Methyl-3-isobutylxanthine; Alprostadil; Animals; Anti-Ulcer Agents; Blotting, Northern; Calcium; Cells, Cultured; Colforsin; Cyclic AMP; Dinoprostone; Gene Expression; Glomerular Mesangium; Glucose; Male; Menstruation-Inducing Agents; Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Rats; Rats, Inbred WKY; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP1 Subtype; RNA, Messenger; Thymidine; Tritium

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is known to autoamplify its production in the osteoblasts through the induction of prostaglandin G/H synthase-2 (PGHS-2), which is the inducible form of the rate-limiting enzyme in PG synthesis, PGHS. To elucidate the cellular mechanism mediating this process, we have employed the PGE2 analogs, which are specific agonists for four subtypes of PGE receptor, and studied the potency of these analogs to induce PGHS-2 mRNA in mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. The induction was mainly observed by 17-phenyl-omega-trinor PGE2 (EP1 agonist) and sulprostone (EP3/EP1 agonist), but not by butaprost (EP2 agonist) or 11-deoxy PGE1 (EP4/EP2 agonist). Since EP3 subtype was undetectable in MC3T3-E1 cells, these data indicate that PGHS-2 mRNA induction is mediated through EP1 subtype of PGE receptor in MC3T3-E1 cells. PGE2 production determined by radioimmunoassay was also increased by 17-phenyl-omega-trinor PGE2 and sulprostone. The autoamplification of PGE2 production is considered to be important in elongating the otherwise short-lived PGE2 action in certain physiological conditions such as mechanical stress and fracture healing, as well as the pathological inflammatory bone loss. The observations in the present study provide us with the better understanding of these processes.

Topics: 3T3 Cells; Abortifacient Agents, Nonsteroidal; Alprostadil; Animals; Cyclooxygenase 2; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Fibrinolytic Agents; Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate; Isoenzymes; Mice; Osteoblasts; Oxytocics; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; RNA, Messenger

Cell surface expression of multiple structurally and functionally distinct prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) receptors (Rs), designated the EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 Rs, is a principal determinant of the diverse cellular effects of PGE2. The RNK-16 line of rat large granular lymphocytes, which has served as a model for natural killer cells, coexpresses a mean of 1092 EP3 Rs and EP4 Rs per cell with a mean Kd of 2.7 nM. The presence of the EP3 and EP4 Rs and the absence of the EP1 and EP2 Rs were revealed by inhibition of [3H]PGE2 binding by the EP3/EP1R agonist sulprostone, the EP3/EP2/EP4R agonist M&B 28767, and the EP2/EP4/EP3R agonist misoprostol but not by the EP1R antagonist SC-19220 or the EP2R agonist butaprost. Functional EP4 R expression was confirmed by finding that PGE2 and misoprostol, but not butaprost or sulprostone, evoked increases in the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP ([cAMP]) in RNK-16 cells. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and -3 were identified by zymography and Western blots as the principal MMPs secreted by RNK-16 cells. Secretion of both MMPs by RNK-16 cells attained a maximal level after 24 h of incubation and was enhanced significantly by 10(-9) to 10(-7) M PGE2, 10(-6) M misoprostol, and 10(-4) M dibutyryl cyclic AMP, but not by the EP3R agonist sulprostone. Thus, the effect of PGE2 on RNK-16 cell MMP secretion is mediated by an EP4 R-dependent mechanism involving increases in [cAMP]i. The migration of RNK-16 cells across micropore filters, without or with a layer of Matrigel, was stimulated chemokinetically by PGE2 and misoprostol. PGE2-elicited chemokinesis of RNK-16 cells across a Matrigel model basement membrane, but not across a microfilter alone, was suppressed by the GM 6001 inhibitor of MMP activities. Stimulation of MMP activities in RNK-16 cells by the EP4R thus facilitates migration of the NK cells across vascular basement membranes.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Blotting, Western; Cell Line; Cell Movement; Collagen; Collagenases; Cyclic AMP; Dibenz(b,f)(1,4)oxazepine-10(11H)-carboxylic acid, 8-chloro-, 2-acetylhydrazide; Dinoprostone; Drug Combinations; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; Extracellular Matrix; Killer Cells, Natural; Laminin; Matrix Metalloproteinase 1; Matrix Metalloproteinase 3; Metalloendopeptidases; Misoprostol; Prostaglandin Antagonists; Prostaglandins; Proteoglycans; Rats; Receptors, Prostaglandin E

The structure-activity relations and signal transduction pathways for the anabolic effects of prostaglandins were examined in cultured fetal rat calvariae. In the presence of cortisol prostaglandins of the E and F series (10(-9) to 10(-5) M) produced a dose-related increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation up to 4-fold at 24 h. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was also effective in the absence of cortisol. Butaprost (10(-6) M), a selective EP-2 receptor agonist, produced partial stimulation. Prostaglandin D2, prostacyclin, sulprostone, an EP-1 and EP-3 receptor agonist, and fluprostenol, an FP receptor agonist, were ineffective. Forskolin (10(-4) M) increased [3H]thymidine incorporation 3-fold, while phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) (10(-6) M) produced a 1.8-fold increase. Isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX) increased [3H]thymidine incorporation in control cultures, in the absence of cortisol, and increased the response to PGE2 in control and cortisol-treated cultures. [3H]proline incorporation into collagen and noncollagen protein was measured in the continuous presence of prostaglandins and cortisol for 72-96 h (continuous model) or when prostaglandins and cortisol were applied for 24 h, followed by culture for 48 h in control medium (on/off model). The effects on collagen were greater than on noncollagen proteins, so that the percent of collagen synthesis increased. The effects of prostaglandins and forskolin paralleled their mitogenic effects. PMA increased only noncollagen protein. Indomethacin did not diminish the anabolic response, while aphidicolin produced only partial inhibition. We conclude that the anabolic effects of prostaglandins on replication and differentiation of osteoblasts are likely to be mediated by an EP-2 receptor that stimulates adenylate cyclase.

Topics: 1-Methyl-3-isobutylxanthine; Abortifacient Agents, Nonsteroidal; Alprostadil; Animals; Cell Differentiation; Collagen; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Synergism; Epoprostenol; Hydrocortisone; Isotope Labeling; Organ Culture Techniques; Osteoblasts; Oxytocics; Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors; Prostaglandin D2; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Rats; Signal Transduction; Thymidine; Tritium

The expression by T lymphocytes (T cells) of more than one of the functionally distinct subtypes of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) receptors (Rs), designated EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 Rs, is a principal determinant of specificity and diversity of the immune effects of PGE2. The cultured line of human leukemic T cells, termed HSB.2, co-expresses a total of 7282 +/- 1805 EP3, EP4, and EP2 Rs per cell with a Kd of 3.7 +/- 1.4 nM (mean +/- S.E., n = 9). The EP3/EP1 R-selective agonist sulprostone, EP3/EP2/EP4 R-selective agonists M&B 28767 and misoprostol, and EP2 R-selective agonist butaprost but not the EP1 R-selective antagonist SC-19220 competitively inhibited the binding of [3H]PGE2 to HSB.2 cells. Stimulation of increases in the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP ([cAMP]i) by PGE2, misoprostol, and butaprost and of increases in the intracellular concentration of calcium ([Ca2+]i) by PGE2 and sulprostone demonstrated the respective involvement of EP2/EP4 Rs and EP3 Rs in transduction of biochemical signals. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 was identified by zymography and Western blots as the principal MMP secreted by HSB.2 cells. The cytosolic level and secretion of MMP-9 were increased maximally after 24 h of incubation of HSB.2 cells with 10(-8)-10(-6) M PGE2, sulprostone, M&B 28767, and misoprostol but not with 10(-6) M PGF2alpha, PGD2, PGI2, or butaprost, suggesting a principal dependence on EP3 Rs. That stimulation of MMP-9 secretion by PGE2 was not diminished in Ca2+-free medium but was suppressed significantly and dose-dependently by thapsigargin, an inhibitor of endomembrane Ca2+-ATPase, suggested that MMP-9 expression by HSB.2 cells is mediated by increases in [Ca2+]i attributable to release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. The lack of effect of dibutyryl cAMP, forskolin, and SQ 22536, an adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, on MMP-9 secretion by HSB.2 cells argued against any role for cAMP-dependent mechanisms linked to EP2/EP4 Rs. Cycloheximide and actinomycin D, which respectively inhibited protein and RNA synthesis, suppressed basal and PGE2 induction of MMP-9 production by HSB.2 cells. Northern analysis indicated that PGE2 and sulprostone time-dependently increased expression of MMP-9 mRNA. Thus, stimulation of MMP-9 in HSB.2 T cells by PGE2 is attributable to [Ca2+]i-dependent EP3 R-mediation of increases in message transcription.

Topics: Adenine; Alprostadil; Blotting, Northern; Bucladesine; Calcium; Cell Line; Colforsin; Collagenases; Cyclic AMP; Cycloheximide; Dactinomycin; Dinoprostone; Enzyme Inhibitors; Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; Humans; Kinetics; Leukemia, T-Cell; Matrix Metalloproteinase 9; Misoprostol; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; RNA, Messenger; T-Lymphocytes; Thapsigargin; Transcription, Genetic; Tumor Cells, Cultured

1. We studied the effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and its receptor subtype ligands on plasma levels of catecholamines in urethane-anaesthetized rats. 2. Administration of PGE2 (0.15, 0.3 and 1.5 nmol per animal, i.c.v.) dose-dependently elevated plasma levels of noradrenaline (NA), while the levels of adrenaline were not affected. 3. Administration of sulprostone (EP3/EP1 agonist) and misoprostol (EP3/EP2 agonist) effectively elevated plasma NA levels in a dose-dependent manner (0.1, 0.3, and 1.0 nmol per animal). Butaprost (EP2 agonist) (0.3, 1.0 and 3.0 nmol per animal) was without effect. 17-Phenyl-omega-trinor PGE2 (EP1/EP3 agonist) effectively elevated plasma NA levels only at its highest dose (1.0 nmol per animal), but this elevation was not attenuated by pretreatment with SC-19220 (selective EP1 antagonist) (20 nmol per animal, i.c.v.). 4. The potency of these test agents in elevating plasma levels of NA was as follows; misoprostol > sulprostone > PGE2 > > 17-phenyl-omega-trinor PGE2 > > > butaprost. These results suggest that activation of central prostanoid EP3-receptors induces central sympathetic outflow in rats.

Topics: Abortifacient Agents, Nonsteroidal; Alprostadil; Anesthetics, Intravenous; Animals; Brain; Dibenz(b,f)(1,4)oxazepine-10(11H)-carboxylic acid, 8-chloro-, 2-acetylhydrazide; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Injections, Intraventricular; Male; Misoprostol; Norepinephrine; Prostaglandin Antagonists; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Urethane

Intrathecal (i.t.) injection of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) to conscious mice produced a hyperalgesic action over a wide range of dosages with two apparent peaks at 100 pg and 10 ng per mouse, which may be mediated through EP3 and EP2 subtypes of the PGE receptor. In the present study, the effects of NMDA receptor antagonists on hyperalgesia induced by PGE2 were evaluated by the hot plate test at 30 min after i.t. injection. Hyperalgesia induced by a higher dose of PGE2 (10 ng/mouse) was relieved by D-AP5 (a competitive antagonist), 7-Cl-KynA (a glycine site antagonist), and ketamine and MK801 (non-competitive channel blockers). Intrathecal injection of butaprost (10 ng/mouse), an EP2 agonist, induced hyperalgesia, and this hyperalgesia was blocked by D-AP5, 7-Cl-KynA, ketamine, and MK801, similar to that induced by 10 ng of PGE2. On the other hand, hyperalgesia induced by a lower dose of PGE2 (100 pg/mouse) was blocked by D-AP5 and 7-Cl-KynA, but not by ketamine and MK801. Intrathecal injection of sulprostone (100 pg/mouse), an EP1 and EP3 agonist, induced hyperalgesia, and this hyperalgesia was blocked by D-AP5 and 7-Cl-KynA, but not by ketamine and MK801, similar to that induced by 100 pg of PGE2. These results first demonstrate that the NMDA receptor is involved in the PGE2-induced hyperalgesia and suggest that the hyperalgesic action by lower and higher doses of PGE2 may be mediated through EP3 and EP2 subtypes, respectively.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Dinoprostone; Hyperalgesia; Injections, Spinal; Male; Menstruation-Inducing Agents; Mice; Mice, Inbred Strains; Pain Measurement; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate; Receptors, Prostaglandin E

1. We have shown that intracisternal (i.c.) administration of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) attenuates naloxone-precipitated withdrawal jumps in morphine-dependent mice, and the effect was partly mediated by the corticotropin-releasing factor. To elucidate further other possible mechanisms involved in the inhibitory effect of IL-1 beta on morphine withdrawal jumping behaviour, in this study, we examined the involvement of the prostaglandin-synthesis pathway, because prostaglandins have been shown to mediate the several central effects of IL-1. Furthermore, we examined the effects of subtype-selective prostaglandin receptor agonists on morphine withdrawal jumping behaviour. 2. Mice were rendered morphine-dependent by subcutaneous implantation of a pellet containing 11.5 +/- 0.3 mg morphine hydrochloride for 48 h. Morphine withdrawal syndromes were precipitated by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of naloxone (10 mg kg-1). The degree of physical dependence on morphine was estimated by counting the number of jumps, one of the typical withdrawal signs in mice, for 40 min. 3. The inhibitory effect of IL-1 beta (1 ng/mouse) administered intracisternally 30 min before naloxone (10 mg kg-1, i.p.) was significantly blocked by pretreatment with sodium salicylate (a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor, 10 ng or 30 ng/mouse) administered intracisternally 15 min before IL-1 beta, while i.c. administration of sodium salicylate alone (3 ng, 10 ng or 30 ng/mouse) followed by i.c. administration of vehicle instead of IL-1 beta did not significantly change the number of jumps precipitated by naloxone. 4. Intracisternal administration of M&B28,767 (an EP3-receptor agonist, 1 fg-30 ng/mouse) and sulprostone (an EP1/EP3-receptor agonist, 10 fg-100 ng/mouse) 30 min before naloxone (10 mg kg,-1 i.p.) attenuated withdrawal jumps with a U-shaped dose-response, reaching a peak at 10 pg/mouse and 100 pg/mouse, respectively. On the other hand, i.c. administration of iloprost (an EP1/IP-receptor agonist, 10 fg-100 ng/mouse), butaprost (an EP2-receptor agonist, 10 fg-100 ng/mouse) or prostaglandin F2 alpha (a FP-receptor agonist, 10 fg-100 ng/mouse) 30 min before naloxone (10 mg kg-1, i.p.) did not significantly change the number of jumps precipitated by naloxone. 5. These results indicate that the prostaglandin-synthesis pathway is, at least in part, involved in the inhibitory effect of IL-1 beta on naloxone-precipitated withdrawal jumps in morphine-dependent mice, and that the prostaglandin s

Topics: Alprostadil; Analgesics, Opioid; Animals; Behavior, Animal; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Interleukin-1; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred Strains; Morphine; Naloxone; Prostaglandins; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Sodium Salicylate; Stimulation, Chemical; Substance Withdrawal Syndrome; Substance-Related Disorders

The agonist properties of SC-46275 have been investigated in EP receptor subtype-specific smooth muscle assays. In the isolated guinea pig vas deferens (GPVD), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), via the EP3 receptor, potently inhibited electrically induced contractions with an EC50 of 5.4 +/- 1.1 nM. Sulprostone and misoprostol were both potent relaxers of the GPVD yielding EC50s of 1.6 +/- 0.4 nM and 4.3 +/- 0.9 nM, respectively, while butaprost (10,000 nM) was inactive. SC-46275 was by far the most potent agonist in the GPVD exhibiting an EC50 of 0.04 +/- 0.02 nM. PGE2, via the EP1 receptor, stimulates contractions in the longitudinal muscle layer of the guinea pig ileum (GPIL) with an EC50 of 74.4 +/- 10.6 nM. SC-46275 was extremely weak in this preparation, generating only 33% of the maximal PGE2 effect at 30,000 nM. The circular muscle layer of guinea pig ileum (GPIC) is responsive to inhibition of electrically stimulated contractions by PGE2 (EC50 = 179.6 +/- 20.8 nM) via the EP2 receptor. SC-46275 (up to 10,000 nM) was completely inactive in this preparation. We conclude from these findings that SC-46275 is a very potent and highly selective EP3 receptor agonist. SC-46275 should prove to be an extremely valuable tool in probing the physiological significance of EP3 receptors. The high potency of SC-46275 at the EP3 receptor may account for its antisecretory and cytoprotective actions, while its lack of activity at the EP1 or EP2 sites may explain its very weak diarrheagenic potential.

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Anti-Ulcer Agents; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Electric Stimulation; Guinea Pigs; Ileum; In Vitro Techniques; Male; Misoprostol; Muscle Contraction; Muscle, Smooth; Prostaglandins E, Synthetic; Receptors, Prostaglandin E

Topics: Alprostadil; Animals; Bradykinin; Capillary Permeability; Dinoprostone; Drug Synergism; Inflammation; Rabbits; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Skin; Vasodilation