thromboxane-a2 and furegrelate

Thromboxane (TxA. Using isolated organ bath, saphenous vein and internal mammary artery preparations were incubated with TP receptor antagonist, TxS inhibitor, aspirin, IP or EP4 receptor antagonist. Then prostaglandin (PG)E. TP receptor antagonist and TxS inhibitor are more effective to reduce contraction induced by different spasmogens in comparison to aspirin. Our results suggest that TP receptor antagonist and TxS inhibitor might have an advantage over aspirin due to their preventive effect on increased vascular reactivity observed in post-operative period of coronary artery bypass grafting.

Topics: Arachidonic Acid; Aspirin; Benzofurans; Carbazoles; Enzyme Inhibitors; Female; Humans; Male; Mammary Arteries; Muscle, Smooth, Vascular; Phenylephrine; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Receptors, Thromboxane; Saphenous Vein; Sulfonamides; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Thromboxanes; Vasoconstriction

Glucoprivation stimulates a rapid sympathetic response to release and/or secrete catecholamines into the bloodstream. However, the central regulatory mechanisms involving adrenoceptors and prostanoids production in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN) that are responsible for the glucoprivation-induced elevation of plasma catecholamines are still unresolved. In this study, we aimed to clarify whether glucoprivation-induced activation of noradrenergic neurons projecting to the PVN can induce α- and/or β-adrenergic receptor activation and prostanoids production in the PVN to elevate plasma catecholamine levels. We examined the effects of α- and β-adrenergic receptor antagonists, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, a thromboxane A synthase inhibitor, and a PGE

Topics: Adrenal Medulla; Animals; Benzofurans; Blood Glucose; Deoxyglucose; Epinephrine; Indomethacin; Injections, Intraventricular; Male; Neurons; Norepinephrine; Paraventricular Hypothalamic Nucleus; Phentolamine; Rats; Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha; Receptors, Adrenergic, beta; Thromboxane A2

Arachidonic acid (AA) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is present in the phospholipids of the cell membranes of the body and is abundant in the brain. Exogenously administered AA has been shown to affect brain metabolism and to exhibit cardiovascular and neuroendocrine actions. However, little is known regarding its respiratory actions and/or central mechanism of its respiratory effects. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the possible effects of centrally injected AA on respiratory system and the mediation of the central cyclooxygenase (COX) to thromboxane A2 (TXA2) signaling pathway on AA-induced respiratory effects in anaesthetized rats. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of AA induced dose- and time-dependent increase in tidal volume, respiratory rates and respiratory minute ventilation and also caused an increase in partial oxygen pressure (pO2) and decrease in partial carbon dioxide pressure (pCO2) in male anaesthetized Spraque Dawley rats. I.c.v. pretreatment with ibuprofen, a non-selective COX inhibitor, completely blocked the hyperventilation and blood gases changes induced by AA. In addition, central pretreatment with different doses of furegrelate, a TXA2 synthesis inhibitor, also partially prevented AA-evoked hyperventilation and blood gases effects. These data explicitly show that centrally administered AA induces hyperventilation with increasing pO2 and decreasing pCO2 levels which are mediated by the activation of central COX to TXA2 signaling pathway.

Topics: Anesthesia; Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Benzofurans; Carbon Dioxide; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Inhibitors; Ibuprofen; Injections, Intraventricular; Male; Oxygen; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Respiration; Respiratory System; Respiratory System Agents; Thromboxane A2; Tidal Volume; Time Factors

The current study was designed to determine the effect of centrally administrated arachidonic acid (AA) on plasma gonadotropin hormone-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone level, and sperm parameters, and to show the mediation of the central cyclooxygenase (COX) to thromboxane A2 (TXA2) signaling pathway in AA-induced hormonal and sperm parameter effects. Studies were performed in male Sprague-Dawley rats. A total of 150 or 300 μl/5 μl doses of AA were injected intracerebroventricularly (icv). AA significantly caused dose- and time-dependent increases in plasma FSH, LH and testosterone levels of animals, but not plasma GnRH level. AA also significantly increased sperm motility of the rats without change sperm number. Pretreated with ibuprofen, a nonselective COX inhibitor (250 μg/5 μl; icv), and furegrelate, a TXA2 synthesis inhibitor (250 μg/5 μl; icv), prevented AA-evoked increase in plasma FSH, LH and testosterone levels, and sperm motility. In conclusion, our findings show that centrally administered AA increases plasma FSH, LH and testosterone levels and sperm motility of conscious male rats. Moreover, according to our findings, central COX-TXA2 signaling pathway mediates these AA-induced effects.

Topics: Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Benzofurans; Brain; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Inhibitors; Follicle Stimulating Hormone; Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone; Ibuprofen; Infusions, Intraventricular; Luteinizing Hormone; Male; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Signal Transduction; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Testosterone; Thromboxane A2; Time Factors

Lung cancer concerns a worldwide health problem and the efficacy of available treatments is unsatisfactory. Recently, thromboxane A2 (TXA2) synthase (TXAS) and receptor (TXA2R) have been documented to play a role in lung cancer development. Therefore, dual TXA2R modulator (i.e., the dual blocker of TXAS and TXA2R) may be more efficacious to kill lung tumor cells than single TXAS inhibitor or TXA2R antagonism. The close relationship between cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and TXAS also raises whether or how TXA2 contributes to the oncogenic activity of COX-2. This study is therefore conducted to answer these questions.. Various inhibitors and siRNA were used to evaluate the roles of TXA2 and COX-2 in the proliferation and apoptosis of lung adenocarcinoma cells. Cell proliferation was detected using both MTS ELISA and BrdU labeling ELISA. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were examined by flow cytometric analysis. TXB2 level, reflecting the biosynthesis of TXA2, was detected by peroxidase-labeled TXB2 conjugates using an enzyme immunoassay kit. Western blotting was performed to evaluate many biomarkers for cell cycles, apoptosis and proliferation. The levels of COXs were screened by reverse transcriptase and real-time quantitative PCR.. We found either single TXAS inhibitor/TXA2R antagonist or the dual TXA2 modulators offered a similar inhibition on cell proliferation. Moreover, inhibition of TXA2 arrested cells at the G2/M phase and induced apoptosis. It is further demonstrated that TXA2 was able to function as a critical mediator for tumor-promoting effects of COX-2 in lung adenocarcinoma cells.. The present study has for the first shown that dual TXA2 modulators and the single blocker of TXAS or TXA2R offer a similar inhibitory role in lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation and that the tumor-promoting effects of COX-2 can largely be relayed by TXA2. Thus, TXA2 should be regarded as a critical molecule in COX-2-mediated tumor growth and a valuable target against lung cancer.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Adenocarcinoma; Adenocarcinoma of Lung; Antineoplastic Agents; Apoptosis; Benzofurans; Blotting, Western; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Cell Cycle; Cell Line, Tumor; Cell Proliferation; Cyclooxygenase 2; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; Enzyme Inhibitors; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Flow Cytometry; Humans; Hydrazines; Immunoenzyme Techniques; Lung Neoplasms; Nitrobenzenes; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction; Receptors, Thromboxane; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; Signal Transduction; Sulfonamides; Sulfonylurea Compounds; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

Cirrhotic portal hypertension is characterized by increased hepatic oxidative stress, AA (arachidonic acid)-derived TXA(2) (thromboxane A(2)) release and exaggerated hepatic response to the α-adrenergic agonist MTX (methoxamine). Besides promoting hepatic fibrosis, the role of hyperleptinaemia in the modulation of vascular response in NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) rat livers remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to explore the possible links between hyperleptinaemia and the disarrangement in the hepatic microcirculation. NASH-cirrhosis with hyperleptinaemia was induced in lean rats by feeding with an HF/MCD (high-fat/methionine-choline-deficient) diet. Portal haemodynamics, various substances, protein and mRNA expression and PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acid) composition were measured. Finally, the effects of leptin pre-infusion on TXA(2) release and concentration-PPP (portal perfusion pressure) curves in response to MTX were evaluated by simultaneously pre-treatment with the Kupffer cell inactivators GdCl(3) (gadolinium chloride) or EC (encapsulated clodronate), the TXS (TXA(2) synthase) inhibitor furegrelate, the TP receptor (TXA(2) receptor) antagonist SQ29548 and the dual TXS/TP receptor antagonist BM567. In HF/MCD+leptin-lean rats, cirrhosis-induced PPP and MTX hyper-responsiveness were associated with increased hepatic TXA(2) production, TBARS (thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances) levels and the AA (arachidonic acid)/n-3 PUFA ratio, and up-regulation of hepatic leptin, FAS (fatty acid synthase), NADPH oxidase subunits, TXS, TP receptor, TGFβ(1) (transforming growth factor β(1)) proteins and mRNAs. Pre-infusion of leptin significantly enhanced MTX-stimulated PPP elevation and TXA(2) release, which were attenuated by GdCl(3) and EC pre-treatment. Concomitantly pre-incubation with BM567, but not furegrelate or SQ29548, significantly abolished the leptin-enhanced MTX-stimulated increase in PPP in NASH-cirrhotic rats. Hyperleptinaemia plays an important role in hyper-responsiveness to MTX in NASH-cirrhotic rat livers with portal hypertension. The leptin-enhanced MTX-stimulated increase in PPP is mediated by increased oxidative stress and Kupffer-cell-activated AA-derived TXA(2) release in NASH-cirrhotic rats.

Topics: Analysis of Variance; Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Benzofurans; Choline; Clodronic Acid; Diet, High-Fat; DNA Primers; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Fatty Liver; Gadolinium; Hemodynamics; Hypertension, Portal; Insulin Resistance; Kupffer Cells; Leptin; Methionine; Methoxamine; Microcirculation; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Receptors, Thromboxane A2, Prostaglandin H2; RNA, Messenger; Sulfonylurea Compounds; Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances; Thromboxane A2

The aim of the current study was to determine the central cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway and central thromboxane signaling in the cardiovascular effects evoked by arachidonic acid (AA). As a main control for the study, different doses of AA (75, 150, or 300 µg) were administered intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.). Centrally injected AA dose- and time-dependently increased mean arterial pressure and decreased heart rate in conscious normotensive Sprague-Dawley rats. The maximal cardiovascular effects of AA were observed at min 10 of the injection and lasted almost 30 min. To investigate the central mechanism of the AA-induced cardiovascular effect in conscious normotensive animals, pretreatment with nonselective COX inhibitor indomethacin (200 µg; i.c.v.), thromboxane A2 (TXA2) synthesis inhibitor furegrelate (250 or 500 µg; i.c.v.), or TXA2 receptor antagonist SQ-29548 (8 or 16 µg; i.c.v.) was carried out 15 min before AA (150 µg; i.c.v.) injection. While indomethacin completely prevented the pressor and bradycardic responses to AA, furegrelate and SQ-29548 attenuated these effects in part in awake normotensive rats. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the pressor and bradycardic cardiovascular effects of centrally injected AA are dependent on COX activity being totally central and the TXA2 signaling pathway being subsequently central, at least in part.

Topics: Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Benzofurans; Blood Pressure; Bradycardia; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Cardiovascular System; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Heart Rate; Hydrazines; Indomethacin; Infusions, Intraventricular; Male; Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Thromboxane A2, Prostaglandin H2; Signal Transduction; Thromboxane A2

We previously reported that in healthy mouse cerebral arteries, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) produces H₂O₂, leading to endothelium-dependent dilation. In contrast, thromboxane A₂ (TXA₂), a potent pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory endogenous vasoconstrictor, is associated with eNOS dysfunction. Our objectives were to elucidate whether (1) the cerebrovascular eNOS-H₂O₂ pathway was sensitive to oxidative stress associated with aging and dyslipidemia and (2) TXA₂ contributed to cerebral eNOS dysfunction. Atherosclerotic (ATX = LDLR(-/-); hApoB(+/+)) and wild-type (WT) control mice were used at 3 and 12 months old (m/o). Three-m/o ATX mice were treated with the cardio-protective polyphenol catechin for 9 months. Dilations to ACh and the simultaneous eNOS-derived H₂O₂ production were recorded in isolated pressurized cerebral arteries. The age-associated decrease in cerebral eNOS-H₂O₂ pathway observed in WT was premature in ATX mice, decreasing at 3 m/o and abolished at 12 m/o. Thromboxane synthase inhibition by furegrelate increased dilations at 12 months in WT and at 3 and 12 months in ATX mice, suggesting an anti-dilatory role of TXA₂ with age hastened by dyslipidemia. In addition, the non-selective NADP(H) oxidase inhibitor apocynin improved the eNOS-H₂O₂ pathway only in 12-m/o ATX mice. Catechin normalized the function of this pathway, which became sensitive to L-NNA and insensitive to furegrelate or apocynin; catechin also prevented the rise in TXA₂ synthase expression. In conclusion, the age-dependent cerebral endothelial dysfunction is precocious in dyslipidemia and involves TXA₂ production that limits eNOS activity. Preventive catechin treatment reduced the impact of endogenous TXA₂ on the control of cerebral tone and maintained eNOS function.

Topics: Acetophenones; Aging; Animals; Antioxidants; Atherosclerosis; Benzofurans; Catechin; Cerebral Arteries; Enzyme Inhibitors; Hemodynamics; Humans; Hydrogen Peroxide; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Mice, Knockout; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type III; Oxidants; Oxidative Stress; Receptors, LDL; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Up-Regulation

This study investigated the mechanisms underlying the response to hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) in mesenteric resistance arteries from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats. Arteries were mounted in microvascular myographs for isometric tension recording and for simultaneous measurements of intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)), superoxide anion (O(2)(.)) production was evaluated by dihydroethidium fluorescence and confocal microscopy, and thromboxane A(2) (TXA(2)) production was evaluated by enzyme immunoassay. H(2)O(2) (1-100 microM) induced biphasic responses characterized by a transient endothelium-dependent contraction followed by relaxation. Simultaneous measurements of tension and Ca(2+) showed a greater effect of H(2)O(2) in arteries from hypertensive than normotensive rats. The cyclooxygenase (cox) inhibitor, indomethacin [1-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-5-methoxy-2-methyl-1-H-indole-3-acetic acid] (1 microM); the COX-1 inhibitor, SC-58560 [5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-trifluoromethyl pyrazole] (1 microM); the thromboxane (TXA(2)) synthase inhibitor, furegrelate [5-(3-pyridinylmethyl)-2-benzofurancarboxylic acid, sodium salt] (10 microM); and the TXA(2)/prostaglandin H(2) receptor antagonist, SQ 29,548 ([1S-[1.alpha.,2.alpha.(Z),3.alpha.,4.alpha.]]-7-[3-[[2-[(phenylamino) carbonyl] hydrazino] methyl]-7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-yl]-5-heptenoic acid)) (1 microM) abolished H(2)O(2) contraction in arteries from WKY rats but only reduced it in SHRs. The O(2)(.) scavenger, tiron (4,5-dihydroxy-1,3-benzenedisulfonic acid disodium salt) (1 mM), and the NADPH oxidase inhibitor, apocynin (4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyacetophenone) (0.3 mM), decreased H(2)O(2) contraction in arteries from SHRs but not in WKY rats. H(2)O(2) induced TXA(2) and O(2)(.) production that was greater in SHRs than in WKY rats. The TXA(2) analog, U46619 [9,11-di-deoxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-epoxymethano prostaglandin F(2 alpha) (0.1 nM-1 microM)], also increased O(2)(.) production in SHR vessels. H(2)O(2)-induced TXA(2) production was decreased by SC-58560. H(2)O(2)-induced O(2)(.) production was decreased by tiron, apocynin, and SQ 29,548. In conclusion, the enhanced H(2)O(2) contraction in resistance arteries from SHRs seems to be mediated by increased TXA(2) release from COX-1 followed by elevations in vascular smooth muscle [Ca(2+)](i) levels and O(2)(.) production. This reveals a new mechanism of oxidative stress-induced vascular damage in h

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Calcium; Endothelium, Vascular; Enzyme Inhibitors; Hydrogen Peroxide; Hypertension; Indomethacin; Male; Mesenteric Arteries; Myocardial Contraction; Organic Chemicals; Rats; Rats, Inbred SHR; Rats, Inbred WKY; Superoxides; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

This study examines the effect of ovarian function on thromboxane A(2) (TXA(2)), prostaglandin (PG) I(2), PGF(2alpha), and PGE(2) release as well as the role of these substances in nitric oxide (NO) release and acetylcholine (ACh)-mediated relaxation.. Aortic segments from ovariectomized and control female Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) expression was studied. ACh-induced relaxation was analysed in the absence and presence of the COX-2 inhibitor NS-398, the TXA(2) synthesis inhibitor furegrelate, the PGI(2) synthesis inhibitor tranylcypromine (TCP), or the thromboxane-prostanoid receptor antagonist SQ-29548. TXA(2), PGI(2), PGF(2alpha), and PGE(2) release was measured, and the vasomotor effect of exogenous TXA(2), PGI(2,) PGF(2alpha), and PGE(2) was assessed. Basal and ACh-induced NO release in the absence and presence of NS-398, furegrelate, TCP, or TCP plus furegrelate was studied. Ovariectomy did not alter or increased COX-1 or COX-2 expression, respectively. NS-398 decreased, and furegrelate did not change, the ACh-induced relaxation in arteries from both groups. SQ29,548 decreased the ACh-induced relaxation only in aortas from ovariectomized rats. TCP decreased the ACh-induced relaxation in both groups, and furegrelate or SQ29,548 totally restored that response only in aortas from control rats. Ovariectomy increased the ACh-induced TXA(2), PGI(2), and PGE(2) release and the contractile responses induced by exogenous TXA(2), PGF(2alpha), or PGE(2), while it decreased the PGI(2)-induced vasodilator response. In aortas from control rats, NS-398 did not alter the ACh-induced NO release, and furegrelate, TCP, or TCP plus furegrelate increased that release. In arteries from ovariectomized rats, NS-398, furegrelate, TCP, or TCP plus furegrelate decreased the ACh-induced NO release.. Despite the prevalence of vasoconstrictor prostanoids derived from COX-2 in aortas from ovariectomized rats, the ACh-induced relaxation is maintained, probably as consequence of the positive regulation that prostanoids exert on eNOS activity.

Topics: Acetylcholine; Animals; Aorta; Benzofurans; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Cyclooxygenase 1; Cyclooxygenase 2; Cyclooxygenase 2 Inhibitors; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme Inhibitors; Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Epoprostenol; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Female; Hydrazines; Intramolecular Oxidoreductases; Membrane Proteins; Nitric Oxide; Nitrobenzenes; Ovariectomy; Prostaglandins; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Sulfonamides; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Tranylcypromine; Vasodilation; Vasodilator Agents

The aim of this study was to analyze whether endogenous male sex hormones influence the release of thromboxane A2(TXA2) and its role in the electrical field stimulation (EFS)-induced response, as well as the mechanism involved. For this purpose, endothelium-denuded mesenteric arteries from control and orchidectomized male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to measure TXA2 release; EFS-induced response, nitric oxide (NO), norepinephrine (NA), and prostaglandin (PG) I2 release were also measured in the presence of the TXA2 synthesis inhibitor furegrelate. Orchidectomy increased basal and EFS-induced TXA2 release. Furegrelate decreased the EFS-induced contraction in arteries from control rats, but did not modify it in arteries from orchidectomized rats. The EFS-induced neuronal NO release and vasodilator response were increased by furegrelate in arteries from control rats, but were not modified in arteries from orchidectomized rats. Furegrelate did not modify the EFS-induced NA release or vasoconstrictor response in arteries from either control or orchidectomized rats. The EFS-induced PGI2 release was not modified by furegrelate in arteries from control rats, but was increased in arteries from orchidectomized rats. The results of the present study show that endogenous male sex hormone deprivation i) increases non-endothelial TXA2 release and ii) regulates the effect of endogenous TXA2 on the EFS-induced response through different mechanisms that, at the least, involve the NO and PGI2 systems. In arteries from control rats, inhibition of TXA2 formation decreases the EFS-induced response by increasing neuronal NO release. In arteries from orchidectomized rats, the EFS-induced response is unaltered after the inhibition of TXA2 formation, by increasing PGI2 release.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Body Weight; Electric Stimulation; Epoprostenol; Male; Mesenteric Arteries; Nitric Oxide; Norepinephrine; Orchiectomy; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Testosterone; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

The adrenal glands and sympathetic celiac ganglia are innervated mainly by the greater splanchnic nerves, which contain preganglionic sympathetic nerves that originated from the thoracic spinal cord. The adrenal medulla has two separate populations of chromaffin cells, adrenaline-containing cells (A-cells) and noradrenaline-containing cells (NA-cells), which have been shown to be differentially innervated by separate groups of the preganglionic sympathetic neurons. The present study was designed to characterize the centrally activating mechanisms of the adrenal A-cells, NA-cells and celiac sympathetic ganglia with expression of cFos (a marker for neural excitation), in regard to the brain prostanoids, in anesthetized rats. Intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) administered corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) induced cFos expression in the adrenal A-cells, but not NA-cells, and celiac ganglia. On the other hand, i.c.v. administered arginine-vasopressin (AVP) resulted in cFos induction in both A-cells and NA-cells in the adrenal medulla, but not in the celiac ganglia. Intracerebroventricular pretreatment with indomethacin (an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase) abolished the CRF- and AVP-induced cFos expression in all regions described above. On the other hand, intracerebroventricular pretreatment with furegrelate (an inhibitor of thromboxane A2 synthase) abolished the CRF-induced cFos expression in the adrenal A-cells, but not in the celiac ganglia, and also abolished the AVP-induced cFos expression in both A-cells and NA-cells in the adrenal medulla. These results suggest that centrally administered CRF activates adrenal A-cells and celiac sympathetic ganglia by brain thromboxane A2-mediated and other prostanoid than thromboxane A2 (probably prostaglandin E2)-mediated mechanisms, respectively. On the other hand, centrally administered AVP activates adrenal A-cells and NA-cells by brain thromboxane A2-mediated mechanisms in rats.

Topics: Adrenal Medulla; Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Arginine Vasopressin; Benzofurans; Brain; Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone; Epinephrine; Ganglia, Sympathetic; Gene Expression; Genes, fos; Indomethacin; Injections, Intraventricular; Male; Norepinephrine; Photomicrography; Prostaglandins; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Thromboxane A2

We reported that the endothelial dysfunction that develops with age was associated with a proinflammatory phenotype. In this study, we hypothesized that an increased production of proinflammatory cyclooxygenase (COX) products occurs before endothelial dysfunction. Dilations to acetylcholine (ACh) were recorded from pressurized renal arteries isolated from 3- and 6-mo-old C57Bl/6 male mice treated or not with the polyphenol catechin (30 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1)) in drinking water for 3 mo. Release of thromboxane (TX) B(2), the metabolite of TXA(2), was measured by using immunoenzymatic assays, and free radical production was measured by using the fluorescent dye CM-H(2)DCFDA. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and COX-1/2 mRNA expression were quantified by quantitative PCR. N(G)-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA) reduced (P < 0.05) ACh-induced dilation in vessels isolated from 3- and 6-mo-old mice. In the presence of L-NNA, indomethacin normalized (P < 0.05) the dilation in vessels from 6-mo-old mice only. SQ-29548 (PGH(2)/TXA(2) receptor antagonist) and furegrelate (TXA(2) synthase inhibitor), in the presence of L-NNA, also improved (P < 0.05) dilation. L-NNA increased TXA(2) release and free radical-associated fluorescence, the latter being prevented by SQ-29548. In vessels from 6-mo-old mice treated with catechin for 3 mo, L-NNA-dependent reduction in ACh-mediated dilation was insensitive to indomethacin, whereas TXA(2) release and free radical-associated fluorescence were prevented. eNOS mRNA expression was significantly increased by catechin treatment. Our results suggest that an augmented production of TXA(2) and the associated change in redox regulation precede the development of the endothelial dysfunction.

Topics: Acetylcholine; Acetylcysteine; Aging; Animals; Antioxidants; Benzofurans; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Catechin; Cyclooxygenase 1; Cyclooxygenase 2; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Endothelium, Vascular; Enzyme Inhibitors; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic; Hydrazines; Indomethacin; Male; Membrane Proteins; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Nitric Oxide; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type II; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type III; Nitroarginine; Oxidation-Reduction; Reactive Oxygen Species; Receptors, Thromboxane A2, Prostaglandin H2; Renal Artery; RNA, Messenger; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane B2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Vasodilator Agents

The current study was designed to determine the cardiovascular effect of centrally administrated melittin, a phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activator, and the mediation of central thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and its receptors in normotensive conscious rats. Studies were performed in normotensive male Sprague Dawley rats injected intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) with melittin. Melittin (1.5, 3.0, 6.0 microg/5.0 microl; i.c.v.) caused dose- and time-dependent increases in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and decrease in heart rate (HR). Maximal effects were observed 5-10 min after 3.0 microg dose of melittin. In order to test the mediation of central TXA2 and its central receptors in the cardiovascular effect of melittin, the rats were pretreated with furegrelate (500.0 microg; i.c.v.), a TXA2 synthesis inhibitor, and SQ-29548 (8.0 microg; i.c.v.), a TXA2 receptor antagonist, 15 min prior to melittin (3.0 microg). Furegrelate or SQ-29548 partially inhibited the pressor effect and bradycardia elicited by melittin. In conclusion, our findings show that centrally administered melittin increases MAP and decreases HR in conscious rats. Moreover, according to our findings, central TXA2 and its receptors may in part mediate melittin-induced cardiovascular effects.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Blood Pressure; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Activation; Enzyme Inhibitors; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Heart Rate; Hydrazines; Male; Melitten; Phospholipases A; Phospholipases A2; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Thromboxane A2, Prostaglandin H2; Thromboxane A2

Plasma adrenaline is originated from adrenal medulla, while plasma noradrenaline reflects the release from sympathetic nerves in addition to the secretion from adrenal medulla. The present study was designed to characterize the source of plasma catecholamines induced by centrally administered histamine, with regard to the brain prostanoids. Intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) administered histamine (1, 5 and 10 microg/animal) elevated plasma noradrenaline and adrenaline (noradrenaline

Topics: Adrenal Medulla; Adrenalectomy; Animals; Benzofurans; Brain; Cyclooxygenase 1; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme Inhibitors; Epinephrine; Histamine; Histamine Agents; Injections, Intraventricular; Ketoprofen; Male; Nitrobenzenes; Norepinephrine; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Sulfonamides; Thromboxane A2

We examined the role of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in LPS-induced hyperresponsiveness of hepatic portal circulation to endothelins (ETs) and whether Kupffer cells are the primary source of TXA2 release in response to ET-1 in endotoxemia. After 6 h of LPS (1 mg/kg body wt ip) or saline (control), liver was isolated and perfused with recirculating Krebs-Henseleit bicarbonate buffer at a constant flow rate (100 ml.min(-1).kg body wt(-1)). ET-1 (10 pmol/min) was infused for 10 min. Portal pressure (PP) was continuously monitored during perfusion. Perfusate was sampled for enzyme immunoassay of thromboxane B2 (TXB2; the stable metabolite of TXA2) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. ET-1 infusion resulted in a significantly greater increase of PP in the LPS group than in controls. Both TXA2 synthase inhibitor furegrelate (Fureg) and TXA2 receptor antagonist SQ-29548 (SQ) substantially blocked enhanced increase of PP in the LPS group (4.9 +/- 0.4 vs. 3.6 +/- 0.5 vs. 2.6 +/- 0.6 mmHg for LPS alone, LPS + Fureg, and LPS + SQ, respectively; P < 0.05) while having no significant effect on controls. GdCl3 for inhibition of Kupffer cells had similar effects (4.9 +/- 0.4 mmHg vs. 2.9 +/- 0.4 mmHg for LPS alone and GdCl3 + LPS, respectively; P < 0.05). In addition, the attenuated PP after ET-1 was found concomitantly with significantly decreased releases of TXB2 and LDH in LPS rats treated with Fureg, SQ, and GdCl3 (886.6 +/- 73.4 vs. 110.8 +/- 0.8 vs. 114.8 +/- 54.7 vs. 135.2 +/- 45.2 pg/ml, respectively; P < 0.05). After 6 h of LPS, Kupffer cells in isolated cell preparations released a significant amount of TXA2 in response to ET-1. These results clearly indicate that hyperresponsiveness of hepatic portal circulation to ET-1 in endotoxemia is mediated at least in part by TXA2-induced receptor activation, and Kupffer cells are likely the primary source of increased TXA2 release.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Endothelin-1; Endotoxemia; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Gadolinium; Hydrazines; Kupffer Cells; Lipopolysaccharides; Liver; Male; Portal Pressure; Portal System; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Thromboxane; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

We previously showed that testosterone, administered in vivo, increases the tone of cerebral arteries. A possible underlying mechanism is increased vasoconstriction through the thromboxane A2 (TxA2) pathway. Therefore, we investigated the effect of chronic testosterone treatment (4 wk) on TxA2 synthase levels and the contribution of TxA2 to vascular tone in rat middle cerebral arteries (MCAs). Using immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, we demonstrated that TxA2 synthase is present in MCA segments in both smooth muscle and endothelial layers. Using Western blot analysis, we found that TxA2 synthase protein levels are higher in cerebral vessel homogenates from testosterone-treated orchiectomized (ORX + T) rats compared with orchiectomized (ORX) control animals. Functional consequences of changes in cerebrovascular TxA2 synthase were determined using cannulated, pressurized MCA segments in vitro. Constrictor responses to the TxA2 mimetic U-46619 were not different between the ORX + T and ORX groups. However, dilator responses to either the selective TxA2 synthase inhibitor furegrelate or the TxA2-endoperoxide receptor (TP) antagonist SQ-29548 were greater in the ORX + T compared with ORX group. In endothelium-denuded arteries, the dilation to furegrelate was attenuated in both the ORX and ORX + T groups, and the difference between the groups was abolished. These data suggest that chronic testosterone treatment enhances TxA2-mediated tone in rat cerebral arteries by increasing endothelial TxA2 synthesis without altering the TP receptors mediating constriction. The effect of in vivo testosterone on cerebrovascular TxA2 synthase, observed here after chronic hormone administration, may contribute to the risk of vasospasm and thrombosis related to cerebrovascular disease.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Androgens; Animals; Benzofurans; Body Weight; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Enzyme Inhibitors; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Hydrazines; Male; Middle Cerebral Artery; Orchiectomy; Rats; Rats, Inbred F344; Receptors, Thromboxane; Testosterone; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Vasoconstriction; Vasoconstrictor Agents; Vasodilation

1. In the present study, we aimed to determine the involvement of brain thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in blood pressure decreases evoked by acute and/or graded haemorrhage in rats. 2. Sprague-Dawley rats were used throughout the study. Acute haemorrhage was achieved by withdrawing a total volume of 2.1 and 2.5 mL blood/100 g bodyweight over a period of 10 min. A microdialysis study was performed in a hypothalamic area to measure extracellular TXA2 levels. Graded haemorrhage was conducted successively by withdrawing carotid arterial blood (0.55 mL/100 g bodyweight) over a 10 s period four times (S1-S4) at 5 min intervals. Furegrelate (125, 250 and 500 microg), a TXA2 synthase inhibitor, was injected intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) 60 min before acute or graded haemorrhage was initiated. U-46619 (0.5, 1 and 2 microg, i.c.v.), a synthetic TXA2 analogue, was administered 5 min before acute haemorrhage (2.1 mL/100 g bodyweight). 3. Acute haemorrhage produced a severe and long-lasting decrease in blood pressure and had a tendency to increase heart rate. Both haemorrhage protocols (2.1 or 2.5 mL/100 g) generated similar approximate twofold increases in extracellular hypothalamic TXA2 levels. Intracerebroventricular furegrelate (250 microg) pretreatment completely blocked the TXA2 increases induced by acute haemorrhage. Furegrelate administration (100, 250 and 500 microg, i.c.v.) attenuated the fall in arterial pressure evoked by acute haemorrhage and caused significant increases in heart rate at all doses injected. 4. Graded haemorrhage progressively lowered arterial pressure and increased plasma vasopressin and adrenaline levels in the last period. Furegrelate-injected rats were greatly resistant to the hypotensive effect of haemorrhage for all degrees of blood removed. Plasma adrenaline and vasopressin levels were significantly elevated in furegrelate-pretreated rats compared with the saline-treated group during S2-S3 and S4, respectively. U-46619 administration caused small but statistically significant decreases in arterial pressure induced by haemorrhage. 4. The results show that acute hypotensive haemorrhage increases extracellular hypothalamic TXA2 levels. The increase in brain endogenous TXA2 levels involves a decrease in blood pressure evoked by haemorrhage because the blockade of TXA2 synthesis by furegrelate pretreatment attenuated the haemorrhagic hypotension. Increases in plasma adrenaline and vasopressin levels may mediate this effect.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Animals; Benzofurans; Blood Pressure; Disease Models, Animal; Epinephrine; Heart Rate; Hemorrhage; Hypotension; Hypothalamus; Injections, Intraventricular; Male; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Time Factors; Vasoconstrictor Agents; Vasopressins

Plasma noradrenaline reflects the release from adrenal medulla and sympathetic nerves; however, the exact mechanisms of adrenal noradrenaline release remain to be elucidated. The present study was designed to characterize the source of plasma noradrenaline induced by centrally administered vasopressin and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in urethane-anesthetized rats. Intracerebroventricularly administered vasopressin (0.2 nmol/animal) and CRH (1.5 nmol/animal) elevated plasma levels of noradrenaline and adrenaline. Intracerebroventricularly administered indomethacin [1.2 micromol (500 microg)/animal] (an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase) abolished the elevations of both noradrenaline and adrenaline induced by vasopressin and CRH. Intracerebroventricularly administered furegrelate [1.8 micromol (500 microg)/animal] (an inhibitor of thromboxane A(2) synthase) abolished the elevations of both noradrenaline and adrenaline induced by vasopressin, while the reagent only attenuated the elevation of plasma adrenaline evoked by CRH. Acute bilateral adrenalectomy abolished the elevation of both noradrenaline and adrenaline induced by vasopressin, while the procedure reduced only the elevation of adrenaline induced by CRH. These results suggest that the release of noradrenaline from adrenal medulla and sympathetic nerves is mediated by different central mechanisms. The vasopressin-induced noradrenaline release from adrenal medulla is mediated by brain thromboxane A(2)-mediated mechanisms, while the CRH-induced noradrenaline release from sympathetic nerves is mediated by brain prostanoid (other than thromboxane A(2))-mediated mechanisms. The vasopressin- and CRH-induced adrenaline release from adrenal medulla is also mediated by brain thromboxane A(2)-mediated mechanisms in rats.

Topics: Adrenal Medulla; Adrenalectomy; Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Benzofurans; Brain; Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone; Epinephrine; Injections, Intraventricular; Male; Norepinephrine; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Thromboxane A2; Vasopressins

Prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthases and their arachidonate products have been implicated in modulating angiogenesis during tumor growth and chronic inflammation. Here we report the involvement of thromboxane A(2), a downstream metabolite of prostaglandin H synthase, in angiogenesis. A TXA(2) mimetic, U46619, stimulated endothelial cell migration. Angiogenic basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increased TXA(2) synthesis in endothelial cells three- to fivefold. Inhibition of TXA(2) synthesis with furegrelate or CI reduced HUVEC migration stimulated by VEGF or bFGF. A TXA(2) receptor antagonist, SQ29,548, inhibited VEGF- or bFGF-stimulated endothelial cell migration. In vivo, CI inhibited bFGF-induced angiogenesis. Finally, development of lung metastasis in C57Bl/6J mice intravenously injected with Lewis lung carcinoma or B16a cells was significantly inhibited by thromboxane synthase inhibitors, CI or furegrelate sodium. Our data demonstrate the involvement of TXA(2) in angiogenesis and development of tumor metastasis.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Animals; Benzofurans; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Chemotaxis; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endothelial Growth Factors; Endothelium, Vascular; Enzyme Inhibitors; Epoprostenol; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Fibroblast Growth Factor 2; Humans; Hydrazines; Lung Neoplasms; Lymphokines; Male; Melanoma, Experimental; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Neoplasm Metastasis; Neovascularization, Pathologic; Rats; Receptors, Thromboxane; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Umbilical Veins; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors

We applied a microdialysis technique for the measurement of hypothalamic thromboxane B2, a stable metabolite of thromboxane A2, in urethane-anesthetized rats. Perfusion with N-methyl-D-aspartate (1.5 and 2.5mM) of the paraventricular nucleus by microdialysis probe concentration-dependently elevated the levels of thromboxane B2 in this region and plasma levels of catecholamines. The elevation of adrenaline was much more marked than that of noradrenaline. Pretreatment with dizocilpine maleate (0.1 mM), a non-competitive antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, of the paraventricular nucleus by microdialysis probe attenuated the N-methyl-D-aspartate (1.5 mM)-induced elevations of both thromboxane B2 and plasma catecholamines. Intracerebroventricular administration of furegrelate (250 microg/animal), a thromboxane A2 synthase inhibitor, also abolished the responses evoked by N-methyl-D-aspartate. These results indicate that N-methyl-D-aspartate applied into the paraventricular nucleus produces thromboxane A2 in this region and elevates plasma levels of catecholamines, especially adrenaline. Thromboxane A2 produced in this hypothalamic nucleus is probably involved in the N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced central adrenomedullary outflow.

Topics: Adrenal Medulla; Animals; Benzofurans; Catecholamines; Dizocilpine Maleate; Enzyme Inhibitors; Excitatory Amino Acid Agonists; Excitatory Amino Acid Antagonists; Male; N-Methylaspartate; Paraventricular Hypothalamic Nucleus; Perfusion; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane B2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

The administration of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) derived from marine oils has been shown to suppress vascular myocyte, lymphocyte, keratinocyte, and mesangial cell proliferation in vitro, although the effects are variable and most reports provide fragmented insight into the mechanism(s) responsible for altering cell growth, particularly the relationship of membrane lipid remodeling to changes in cell proliferation. Thus, these studies were designed to elucidate the effects of mesangial cell membrane fatty acid remodeling (induced by EPA) on cell growth, and to define the relevance of changes in the synthesis of growth-modulating eicosanoids.. Mesangial cells were grown in RPMI and 17% fetal calf serum, and were subcultured and grown for 48 hours in 17% delipidated serum or delipidated serum supplemented with 0 to 50 micrograms/mL of EPA. Quiescent EPA-loaded and control mesangial cells were subjected to stimulation with 20 ng/mL of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) followed by measurement of 3H-thymidine incorporation and cell number.. Mesangial cells remodeled with EPA exhibited a significant decrease in PDGF-stimulated 3H-thymidine incorporation and cell number associated with a reduction in thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in the media. Importantly, the phospholipid fatty acid composition of mesangial cells grown in media enriched with EPA revealed an increase in EPA (0.5 +/- 0.02% to 17.02 +/- 0.52%) coupled with a reciprocal decrease in the precursor for TXA2, arachidonic acid (18.9 +/- 3.17% to 3.55 +/- 0.30%). Blockade of TXA2 synthesis in mesangial cells treated with indomethacin (0.1 to 100 mumol/L) or the specific TXA2 synthase inhibitor, U-63557A (0.1 to 100 mumol/L), evoked a similar reduction in PDGF-stimulated proliferation and TXA2 synthesis. Coincubation of PDGF with the TXA2 mimetic, U-46619 (1 mumol/L), reversed the growth suppression induced by cell membrane remodeling.. These studies suggest that changes in membrane fatty acid composition induced by EPA modulates PDGF-stimulated proliferation by engendering a change in PDGF-stimulated TXA2 synthesis. Furthermore, we conclude that TXA2 functions as a comitogen for PDGF-stimulated mesangial cell growth.

Topics: 15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5,13-dienoic Acid; Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Benzofurans; Cell Count; Cell Division; Cells, Cultured; Culture Media; DNA; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Enzyme Inhibitors; Glomerular Mesangium; Indomethacin; Platelet-Derived Growth Factor; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Thromboxane A2; Thymidine

The aim of this study was to find out the effects of cyclo-oxygenase and thromboxane synthetase inhibitors on right atrial prostacyclin and thromboxane A2 levels.. The study consisted of a total of 50 patients subjected to coronary bypass surgery. These patients were divided into two groups, Group I and Group II each consisting of 25 patients. In Group I patients, the right atrial tissues were studied for effects of indomethacin and U63557A on the prostaglandin levels. In Group II patients, the right atrial tissues were studied for effects of Aspirin and U63557A on the prostaglandin levels.. In Group I patients, the atrial tissues pretreated with indomethacin showed a fall in the levels of 6 keto PGF1 alpha from 153.5 +/- 28.4 pg/0.1 mg to 59.7 +/- 11.6 pg/0.1 mg and of TXB2 from 41.6 +/- 1.2 pg/0.1 mg to 17.2 +/- 3.2 pg/0.1 mg. In the atrial tissues of Group I treated with U63557A the levels of 6 keto PGF1 alpha fell to 145.4 +/- 26.8 pg/0.1 mg and the levels of TXB2 fell to 14.7 +/- 2.8 pg/0.1 mg. In Group II patients, the atrial tissues pretreated with aspirin, showed a fall in the levels of 6 keto PGF1 alpha from 142.1 +/- 2.8 pg/0.1 mg to 17.5 +/- 0.8 pg/0.1 mg. In the atrial tissues pretreated with U63557A, the levels of 6 keto PGF1 alpha fell to 131.2 +/- 2.9 pg/0.1 mg and the levels of TXB2 fell to 14.4 +/- 0.7 pg/0.1 mg.. The study showed that human right atrial tissues are capable of producing TXA2 in addition to prostacyclin. Indomethacin and aspirin by inhibiting generation of cyclic endoperoxides inhibited synthesis of both prostacyclin and TXA2. In contrast a thromboxane synthethase inhibitor U63557A selectively inhibited TXA2 without significant effects on prostacyclin synthesis.

Topics: Aspirin; Benzofurans; Coronary Artery Bypass; Coronary Disease; Culture Techniques; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; Enzyme Inhibitors; Heart Atria; Humans; Indomethacin; Prostaglandins; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

Thromboxane (Tx) A2 is a potent vasoconstrictor eicosanoid that attains high levels within nephritic glomeruli and mediates a drop in glomerular filtration rate (GFR). In the course of nephritis, however, GFR recovers despite high intraglomerular TxA2 levels. We hypothesized that this recovery indicates a reduced responsiveness of the glomerular vasculature to TxA2, and explored whether changes in TxA2 receptor protein expression and receptor-ligand binding are underlying mechanisms.. Glomerulonephritis was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats using an antibody raised in rabbits against rat particulate glomerular basement membrane (GBM). Changes in Tx receptor levels were assessed in protein lysates of glomeruli on days 3 and 7 after a single intravenous injection of the anti-GBM antibody. Ligand-binding studies were performed at the same time points using isolated glomeruli and the TxA2 receptor ligand [3H]-SQ-29,548. GFR was measured as the clearance of endogenous creatinine.. There was a marked increase in Tx receptor protein in the lysates of nephritic glomeruli on days 3 and 7. In contrast, binding sites (Bmax) of [3H]-SQ-29,548 decreased, indicating that the excess receptor became either inaccessible to its ligand (sequestered) or desensitized. Daily administration of the Tx synthase inhibitor Furegrelate starting prior to injection of anti-GBM antibody prevented the decrease in [3H]-SQ-29,548 binding. Furegrelate treatment starting in an established stage of nephritis had no effect. In these animals, GFR was lower than nephritic controls not treated with Furegrelate.. These observations indicate that in the course of glomerulonephritis, there is a marked increase in glomerular Tx receptor expression. The enhanced intraglomerular TxA2 synthesis causes either a sequestration or desensitization of its receptor. As a result, access of unbound TxA2 to efferent arterioles may become facilitated, and constriction of these arterioles may preserve GFR.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Disease Models, Animal; Enzyme Inhibitors; Glomerular Filtration Rate; Glomerulonephritis; Kidney Glomerulus; Kinetics; Ligands; Male; Rabbits; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Receptors, Thromboxane; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

Topics: Albuminuria; Animals; Benzofurans; beta 2-Microglobulin; Cyclosporine; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental; Diabetic Nephropathies; Enzyme Inhibitors; Immunosuppressive Agents; Kidney; Organ Size; Pancreas Transplantation; Pyrazines; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Transplantation, Isogeneic

Previous studies have demonstrated an association between renal cortical fatty acid composition and experimental models of renal injury. The present study was designed to extend these observations to the remnant kidney and to investigate the hypothesis that increased endogenous turnover of arachidonic acid metabolites results in the depletion of progenitor fatty acids. Remnant kidney cortex demonstrated a relative reduction of the essential fatty acids, linoleate and arachidonate (20 +/- 7.2% and 11 +/- 0.3%, respectively), nine weeks after subtotal nephrectomy. In addition, the monounsaturated fatty acid, oleate, was increased (48 +/- 10.6%) while its saturated progenitor, stearate, was decreased (13 +/- 4.3%). Serial evaluation of dienoic prostanoids revealed a significant increase in the renal excretion of TXB2 in rats with remnant kidneys (27 +/- 3.0, 29 +/- 1.1, and 34 +/- 3.3 ng/day vs. 21 +/- 0.8, 20 +/- 1.5, and 22 +/- 3.3 ng/day in control rats, at 3, 6, and 9 weeks, respectively). Moreover, TXB2 excretion inversely correlated with dienoic progenitor fatty acids [18:2(n-6), r2 = 0.76; 20:4(n-6), r2 = 0.79], suggesting that these events are biochemically coupled. Endogenous turnover of precursor fatty acids, confirmed by an increase in renal TXB2 excretion, preceded overt depletion of essential fatty acids by several weeks. Importantly, blockade of endogenous synthesis of TXA2 with the specific TXA2 synthase antagonist, U-63557A, restored the essential fatty acid composition to normal and ameliorated progressive glomerular destruction. Moreover, the ancillary fatty acid disturbances were attenuated by administration of U-63557A.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Dinoprostone; Fatty Acids; Fatty Acids, Essential; Kidney; Kidney Cortex; Male; Models, Biological; Nephrectomy; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane B2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Time Factors

This study compared the effects of a thromboxane synthase inhibitor, thromboxane receptor antagonist, and cyclooxygenase inhibitor in a canine arterial graft patency model. Fifty-six dogs were divided into a control (no treatment) and five treatment groups: thromboxane synthase inhibitor (U63557A; 15 mg/kg/tid); thromboxane receptor antagonist (SQ29548; 0.02 mg/kg/hr); high-dose aspirin (325 mg/day; low-dose aspirin (1 mg/kd/day; and aspirin plus dipyridamole (325 mg/day aspirin; 3 mg/kg/day dipyridamole). Drugs were orally administered except for thromboxane receptor antagonist, which was delivered intravenously by minosmotic pumps. After 24 hours of drug treatment, bilateral femoral artery prosthetic grafts (4 mm diameter x 7 cm; 1 polytetrafluoroethylene and 1 Dacron) were implanted. Patency was determined after 1 week. Dogs were classified before operation according to their epinephrine-enhanced arachidonate-stimulated platelet aggregation response. Polytetrafluoroethylene and Dacron graft patency rates were equivalent in all groups. Overall graft patency was significantly improved from 42% (control) to 94% by both high-dose aspirin and thromboxane receptor antagonist (p less than 0.001). Aspirin-dipyridamole also improved patency (83%; p less than 0.01 versus control), whereas thromboxane synthase inhibitor and low-dose aspirin were not effective. Baseline platelet aggregation was not predictive of patency. The drugs that promoted graft patency in this model either suppressed both thromboxane A2 and prostaglandin H2 formation (high-dose aspirin) or blocked their combined platelet receptor (thromboxane receptor antagonist). Thromboxane synthase inhibitor may be ineffective because prostaglandin H2 production is allowed. These data suggest that activation of the platelet thromboxane A2-prostaglandin H2 receptor is an essential event in early arterial graft thrombosis.

Topics: Animals; Aspirin; Benzofurans; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Dipyridamole; Dogs; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Graft Occlusion, Vascular; Hydrazines; Male; Platelet Aggregation; Receptors, Prostaglandin; Receptors, Thromboxane; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Vascular Patency

To determine the contribution of thromboxane (Tx) A2 release in reperfusion injury, 17 dogs were subjected to total coronary occlusion for 1 h and reperfusion for 1 h. Eleven dogs were treated with saline, and six were treated with selective TxA2 synthetase inhibitor U63,557A (5 mg/kg iv) 30 min before coronary artery occlusion. In all saline-treated dogs, peak reactive hyperemia after 10-s total coronary artery occlusion was diminished (P less than 0.01) after reperfusion. Myocardial segmental shortening was also reduced (9.8 +/- 1.9 to -6.7 +/- 2.0%, P less than 0.01) in the reperfused region. Reperfusion was associated with 737 +/- 343 premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) per hour. Histology revealed extensive myocardial infiltration and capillary plugging by leukocytes in the reperfused region. Myeloperoxidase, an index of leukocyte infiltration, was also increased (P less than 0.02) in the reperfused region. In the U63,557A-treated animals, serum and plasma TxB2 levels were markedly (P less than 0.02) reduced. Decrease in myocardial shortening fraction was less in U63,557A- than in saline-treated animals (P less than 0.05). The frequency of reperfusion PVCs was also significantly reduced (10 +/- 5 PVCs/h, P less than 0.02 compared with saline-treated dogs). However, peak reactive hyperemia was reduced similar to that in saline-treated dogs. Myocardial infiltration and capillary plugging by leukocytes in the reperfused regions was also similar in the U63,557A- and saline-treated dogs. These results indicate that treatment with U63,557A decreases reperfusion arrhythmias and preserves myocardial function. However, coronary reperfusion-induced deterioration in reactive hyperemia is not affected.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Coronary Disease; Dogs; Female; Heart; Hyperemia; Male; Myocardial Reperfusion; Myocardium; Peroxidase; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

The clinical usefulness of Cyclosporine is limited by its intrinsic nephrotoxicity. A potential mechanism of CsA-mediated renal injury may involve an alteration in the prostaglandin-thromboxane (PG-TX) cascade. In our studies, pharmacological manipulation of the PG-TX system in normal and nephrotoxic animals was conducted using a specific thromboxane synthetase inhibitor U63,557A, and the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin. Administration of CsA 50 mg/kg/day for 7 days to Sprague Dawley rats resulted in a 99% increase in urinary thromboxane B2 excretion compared with controls (48.2 +/- 3.1 vs. 24.2 +/- 2.6 ng/24 hr, P less than 0.001), while plasma levels remained unchanged. Glomerular and tubular function was significantly reduced at this time, with a 48% decrease in creatinine clearance (CCr), and a 25% reduction in the fractional excretion of sodium (FeNa) (P less than 0.001). Histological injury included cortical tubular vacuolization and necrosis. Administration of indomethacin 8 mg/kg/day to both normal and CsA-treated rats resulted in a significant reduction in prostanoid excretion. Indomethacin alone had no adverse effect on glomerular function; however, when coadministered with CsA an exaggerated decrease in renal function was observed. CCr in this group fell by a further 27% compared with the CsA-50 group, while FeNa decreased by 76% (P less than 0.001). Histologic injury intensified, with an increase in vacuolization and necrosis. In contrast, coadministration of U63,557A with CsA prevented the rise in urinary TXB2 excretion, improved CCr by 20% (P less than 0.05), and restored FeNa to control levels. The severity of CsA-induced vacuolization was significantly diminished. Selective inhibition of thromboxane production may therefore be valuable in mitigating the clinical nephrotoxicity of CsA.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Cyclosporins; Indomethacin; Kidney; Male; Rats; Rats, Inbred Strains; Thromboxane A2; Vasoconstriction

Since thromboxane A2 (TXA2) release may relate to the extension of myocardial injury following coronary ligation, the authors examined the effects of pretreatment with a selective TXA2 synthetase inhibitor U-63,557A, or a TXA2 receptor antagonist SQ-29,548, on myocardial infarct size forty-eight hours following left coronary ligation in rats. Myocardial infarct size (as percent of left ventricle, LV) was decreased from 44 +/- 3% in saline-treated control animals to 34 +/- 4% (P less than 0.05) in U-63,557A-treated animals and to 32 +/- 4% (P less than 0.05) in SQ-29,548 treated animals (U-63,557A-treated vs SQ-29,548-treated, P = NS). LV creatine kinase (CK) was 5.08 +/- 0.42 IU/mg protein in noninfarcted untreated rats and 1.79 +/- 0.21 IU/mg protein in saline-treated infarcted rats. LV CK was 2.86 +/- 0.40 IU/mg protein in U-63,557A-treated rats and 3.11 +/- 0.51 IU/mg protein in SQ-29,548-treated infarcted rats (both P less than 0.05 compared with saline-treated rats). The beneficial effects of U-63,557A and of SQ-29,548 were not accompanied by reduction in indices of myocardial oxygen demand (heart rate and arterial pressure). However, neutrophil accumulation in the infarcted myocardium was markedly decreased by U-63,557A and SQ-29,548 pretreatment. Myocardial myeloperoxidase activity, a specific marker of neutrophil infiltration, was also decreased (P less than 0.02) in U-63,557A- and SQ-29,548-treated animals (0.09 +/- 0.03 and 0.07 +/- 0.02 units/100 mg, respectively) compared with saline-treated infarcted rats (0.19 +/- 0.04 units/100 mg). In vitro incubation of U-63,557A and SQ-29,548 caused a significant and similar reduction in f-MLP-induced neutrophil chemotaxis, and U-63,557A increased prostacyclin formation in whole blood. These data suggest that reduction in the extent of myocardial injury by TXA2 synthetase or receptor inhibitors may, in part, relate to a decrease in neutrophil accumulation in the infarcted tissue. In spite of differences in mechanisms of action of U-63,557A and SQ-29,548, both agents exert a similar protective effect on the extent of myocardial injury following coronary ligation. Reduction in neutrophil accumulation in the infarcted zone, as well as in f-MLP-directed chemotaxis in vitro, suggests that TXA2 inhibition may modulate neutrophil migration.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic; Chemotaxis, Leukocyte; Creatine Kinase; Epoprostenol; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Hydrazines; Male; Myocardial Infarction; Myocardium; Neutrophils; Peroxidase; Platelet Aggregation; Rats; Rats, Inbred Strains; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane B2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

Previous studies demonstrate endothelium-dependent leukotriene D4 (LTD4)-induced relaxation of canine coronary arterial rings in vitro. We now show that coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion attenuates (P less than 0.01) the relaxation of canine coronary artery rings in response to LTD4 as well as acetylcholine (ACh), suggesting loss of endothelium-dependent coronary reactivity (n = 6 dogs). Since superoxide anions have been shown to cause breakdown of endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF), we wondered whether treatment of dogs with superoxide anion scavenger superoxide dismutase (SOD) would modulate the effects of LTD4 and ACh on reperfused coronary artery rings. Indeed, treatment of dogs (n = 5) with SOD before coronary reperfusion resulted in preservation of LTD4- and ACh-induced relaxation of coronary rings. Treatment of another five dogs with selective thromboxane-synthetase blocker U 63557A before coronary reperfusion also resulted in preservation of coronary ring relaxation in response to LTD4 and ACh. To determine the mechanism of U 63557A-induced preservation of coronary reactivity, canine neutrophil superoxide anion generation in the presence of U 63557A was measured. Although U 63557A had no effect on superoxide anion generation in neutrophils alone, it markedly (P less than 0.02) inhibited superoxide anion generation in neutrophils in the presence of platelets, most likely via shunting of accumulated cyclic endoperoxide in platelets toward formation of prostacyclin, which inhibits neutrophil superoxide anion production. Thus SOD and U 63557A protect against loss of endothelium-mediated vascular relaxation by LTD4 and ACh after coronary occlusion and reperfusion.

Topics: 6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha; Acetylcholine; Animals; Benzofurans; Blood Platelets; Coronary Vessels; Dogs; Female; Male; Muscle, Smooth, Vascular; Myocardial Reperfusion; Neutrophils; Recombinant Proteins; Reference Values; SRS-A; Superoxide Dismutase; Superoxides; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Vasodilation

Platelet-generated thromboxane A2 enhances norepinephrine release from adrenergic nerves. Microsomes were prepared from outdated human platelets and incubated with arachidonic acid to produce thromboxane A2. The incubate was added to isolated, electrically stimulated rabbit portal veins to determine its effect on adrenergic neurotransmission. Immunoreactive thromboxane B2 concentrations were measured to assess the generation of the precursor, thromboxane A2. Addition of microsomes in the presence of arachidonic acid (1 microM) caused a concentration-dependent increase in thromboxane B2 concentrations, electrically induced force and norepinephrine release. Inclusion of acetylsalicylic acid (10 microM) or the thromboxane synthase inhibitor, U63557A (100 micrograms/ml), in the arachidonic acid-microsome incubate eliminated the potentiation of force, norepinephrine release and thromboxane B2 generation. The thromboxane receptor antagonist, SQ30741 (1 microM), also eliminated the microsome effects on neurogenic force and norepinephrine release but not on thromboxane generation. The microsome-arachidonic acid incubate did not influence norepinephrine concentration-contractile response curves. These data are consistent with a potentiative action of thromboxane A2 on adrenergic neurotransmission, primarily mediated by enhanced release of norepinephrine. The physiological or pathological significance of this observation depends on the thromboxane concentrations in the vicinity of adrenergic nerves.

Topics: Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Arachidonic Acids; Benzofurans; Blood Platelets; In Vitro Techniques; Microsomes; Norepinephrine; Rabbits; Sympathetic Nervous System; Synaptic Transmission; Thromboxane A2

1. Eleven healthy, unanaesthetized sheep were given either a single intravenous bolus infusion of U63,577A (Upjohn), a selective thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, at a dose of 30 mg/kg (group 1, n = 6), or vehicle alone (group 2, n = 5). Animals were maintained in metabolic cages during the study, and received 150 ml of water/h and 7.5 mmol of sodium/h as Ringers lactate by intravenous infusion for 24 h before and during the study. During two 1 h control urine collections via bladder catheter, urine volume and sodium excretion closely paralleled these infusion rates. 2. In the first hour after injection of U63,577A, there were significant two- to three-fold increases in urine volume, urinary sodium excretion and fractional sodium excretion, compared with the control collections. During the subsequent 4 h, urine volume, urinary sodium excretion, and fractional sodium excretion fell to values significantly lower than in the control period. Creatinine clearance was reduced 1, 2 and 4 h post injection and returned to control values at 5 h. Urinary excretion of thromboxane B2 was significantly reduced compared with control values during the 5 h after injection of U63,577A. Excretion of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha did not change. Plasma renin activity was significantly increased 1, 3 and 5 h after injection of U63,577A. Vehicle controls showed no change in any of the above parameters. 3. The results indicate that in healthy conscious sheep, sodium and water replete, U63,577A has a transient but significant diuretic and natriuretic effect, followed by sodium and water retention and increased plasma renin activity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Female; Kidney; Renin; Sheep; Sleep; Sodium; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane B2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Urodynamics

Topics: 6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Benzofurans; Blood Vessel Prosthesis; Epoprostenol; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; Humans; Myocardial Infarction; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane B2

A pharmacological analysis was carried out to determine the possible role of aberrant calcium fluxes, vasoactive arachidonic acid metabolites, and microvascular lipid peroxidation in the development of posttraumatic spinal cord white matter ischemia. Pentobarbital-anesthetized cats were treated intravenously 30 minutes before a 500-gm-cm contusion injury to the lumbar spinal cord with one of the following test drugs: the Ca++ channel antagonists verapamil, diltiazem, or nifedipine; the cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors ibuprofen or meclofenamate; the thromboxane A2 (TXA2) synthetase inhibitor furegrelate sodium; or the stable epoprostenol (prostacyclin, or PGI2) analogue ciprostene calcium alone or in combination with furegrelate sodium. Another group of animals was pretreated for 5 days before spinal injury with a combination of the antioxidants vitamin E and selenium in high doses. The hydrogen clearance technique was used to make repeated measurements of spinal cord blood flow (SCBF) in the dorsolateral funiculus of the injured segment before and for 4 hours after injury. In 11 untreated uninjured cats, the mean preinjury SCBF was 12.7 +/- 1.5 ml/100 gm/min. Following contusion, there was a progressive decline in SCBF to 6.8 +/- 0.4 ml/100 gm/min, or 53.5% of the preinjury level at 4 hours. In comparison, the Ca++ antagonists diltiazem and nifedipine (but not verapamil) prevented a significant posttraumatic decrease in SCBF. Similarly, both cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors (ibuprofen and meclofenamate) maintained SCBF within normal limits (10 ml/100 gm/min or greater). However, neither TXA2 synthetase inhibition nor the stable PGI2 analogue alone had a significant effect in preventing ischemia, whereas a combination of the two agents did serve to support SCBF. The most impressive preservation of posttraumatic SCBF, however, was observed in the antioxidant-treated animals. Based upon these results, a hypothesis is presented concerning the pathogenesis of posttraumatic central nervous system ischemia which integrates an injury-induced rise in intracellular Ca++, the increased synthesis of vasoactive prostanoids (such as prostaglandin F2 alpha and TXA2), and progressive microvascular lipid peroxidation.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Calcium Channel Blockers; Cats; Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; Diltiazem; Dinoprost; Epoprostenol; Female; Ibuprofen; Ischemia; Male; Meclofenamic Acid; Nifedipine; Prostaglandin Antagonists; Prostaglandins F; Spinal Cord; Thromboxane A2; Verapamil; Vitamin E

U-63,557A, a new selective thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, was evaluated for its ability to prevent the extension of myocardial infarct size. Left coronary arteries of male Sprague-Dawley rats (230 - 270 g) were acutely ligated, producing a consistent model of myocardial infarction (MI) in rats analyzed 48 hours later. Left ventricular free wall (LVFW), creatine kinase (CK) activity, and amino-nitrogen concentrations were assayed as indices of infarct size. U-63,557A was administered intravenously in two doses (4 and 8 mg/kg) with a split schedule (2 min post-ischemia and either 4 or 24 hrs later). Administration of the thromboxane synthetase inhibitor significantly reduced both myocardial CK and amino-nitrogen loss at a dose of 8 mg/kg, but it was only slightly effective at 4 mg/kg. Drug treatment significantly increased the percent LVFW spared; 27 +/- 3% (vehicle) vs 43 +/- 7% and 52 +/- 7% (8 mg/kg). U-63,557A is an effective agent in myocardial ischemia for limiting the extension of infarct size after acute coronary artery ligation. Previous studies of other thromboxane synthetase inhibitors showed effectiveness in the early stages of MI. This study shows an effect on true infarct size 48 hours post-ligation, and suggests that inhibition of thromboxane A2 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ischemic damage in the myocardium.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Disease Models, Animal; Male; Myocardial Infarction; Oxidoreductases; Rats; Rats, Inbred Strains; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase

The factors responsible for the high pulmonary vascular resistance in the fetus are not well known. Thromboxane (TX) A2 is a potent pulmonary vasoconstrictor. To determine whether TXA2 may play a role in fetal pulmonary vasoconstriction, we infused the specific TX synthetase inhibitor U63,557A into eight chronically instrumented fetal lambs (134-137 days gestational age, full term 145 days) and measured pulmonary blood flow, pulmonary and systemic arterial pressure, and heart rate. U63,557A (3 mg/kg as a bolus then 3 micrograms/kg/min for 120 min infused in the main pulmonary artery) did not change pulmonary blood flow, pulmonary mean arterial pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance during the infusion and during 2 h following the end of the infusion. During the infusion, TXB2 arterial plasma concentrations decreased from 106.1 +/- 17.5 to 8.7 +/- 2.9 pg/ml. In three of the fetal lambs, immediately after the 2-h infusion of U63,557A, we infused the leukotriene end-organ antagonist FPL 57231 into the main pulmonary artery (1 mg/kg/min for 60 min). TXA2 synthesis inhibition did not prevent the pulmonary vasodilation induced by FPL 57231. Pulmonary blood flow increased from 64.8 +/- 24.4 to 669.5 +/- 65.6 ml/min/100 g lung tissue during the FPL 57231 infusion. We conclude that TXA2 does not play a role in the maintenance of elevated fetal pulmonary vascular tone, either directly or as a mediator of leukotriene action.

Topics: Animals; Benzofurans; Chromones; Female; Fetus; Pregnancy; Pulmonary Circulation; Sheep; SRS-A; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Vascular Resistance

Four calcium channel blockers (nimodipine, nifedipine, verapamil and diltiazem) of three chemical classes were tested in vitro for inhibition of platelet aggregation using heparinized human platelet rich plasma. Both ADP- and thrombin-induced aggregation were inhibited as was the biosynthesis of thromboxane A2 in response to ADP or thrombin. However, the IC50's for the calcium channel blockers were greater than or equal to 110 microM. Nimodipine was also tested in combination with prostacyclin, the potent platelet antiaggregatory agent, or with a thromboxane synthase inhibitor, U63557A. At concentrations at which neither nimodipine or prostacyclin inhibited platelet aggregation greater than or equal to 10%, the two compounds is combination synergistically inhibited both ADP- and thrombin-induced platelet aggregation. U63557A inhibited biosynthesis of thromboxane A2 by platelets in response to ADP or thrombin, but did not inhibit either ADP- or thrombin-induced platelet aggregation. However, U63557A in combination with a threshold inhibitory concentration of nimodipine resulted in a synergistic inhibition of platelet aggregation induced by ADP or thrombin. These results suggest that calcium channel blockers may be of therapeutic value as a new class of antithrombogenic agents when used in combination with agents that inhibit either platelet aggregation or synthesis of platelet thromboxane A2.

Topics: Adenosine Diphosphate; Benzofurans; Blood Platelets; Calcium Channel Blockers; Diltiazem; Drug Synergism; Epoprostenol; Humans; Nicotinic Acids; Nifedipine; Nimodipine; Oxidoreductases; Platelet Aggregation; Thrombin; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Verapamil

This report outlines the activity of a new thromboxane synthase inhibitor sodium, 5-(3-pyridinylmethyl)-2-benzofurancarboxylate, (U-63557A). U-63557A is a potent inhibitor of the thromboxane synthase in human platelets in vitro, as well as in rhesus monkey platelets ex vivo. A single oral dose of 3.0 mg/kg U-63557A inhibits the platelet thromboxane synthase in rhesus monkeys approximately 80% for at least 12 hrs. U-63557A has been administered to monkeys twice a day, (10 mg/kg) for 14 days, without evidence of drug tachyphylaxis or rebound. U-63557A does not inhibit thrombin-stimulated PGI2 biosynthesis in human endothelial cells, the 5-lipoxygenase in human neutrophils, or the cyclo-oxygenase in a variety of test systems. In anesthetized dogs, U-63557A injected i.v. at 0.1 to 5 mg/kg prevented the blockage of stenosed coronary arteries caused platelet aggregation. Similar effects were obtained by oral administration of 1-5 mg/kg. The thromboxane synthase inhibitor was more efficacious than cyclooxygenase inhibitors and equal to PGI2 in efficacy. Under appropriate conditions the protective effects of U-63557A could be reversed by i.v. cyclooxygenase inhibitors suggesting that its efficacy depended in part on endogenous PGI2 formation. Due to its specificity, oral activity, and extended duration of action, U-63557A is a promising compound for the evaluation of the role of thromboxane synthase in a variety of pathophysiological states.

Topics: Animals; Arachidonic Acid; Arachidonic Acids; Benzofurans; Blood Platelets; Cyclic AMP; Dogs; Humans; Oxidoreductases; Thromboxane A2; Thromboxane B2; Thromboxane-A Synthase; Thromboxanes