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Phosphodiesterase profiles of highly purified human peripheral blood leukocyte populations from normal and atopic individuals: a comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Several previous reports have suggested an increased activity of cAMP phosphodiesterases (PDEs) and a higher sensitivity of these enzymes toward PDE inhibitors in leukocytes of patients suffering from atopic dermatitis. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to comprehensively analyze and compare the PDE expression and activity profile of highly purified populations of leukocytes from normal and atopic blood donors. In addition, the influence of PDE inhibitors on function of leukocytes from normal and atopic individuals was investigated. METHODS: Density gradient centrifugation, elutriation, and magnetic cell sorting techniques were used to purify eosinophils, monocytes, and B and T lymphocytes from peripheral human blood. Complementary DNA-polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze PDE4 subtype messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels in addition to PDE isoenzyme activities. PDE4 inhibitor sensitivity was determined in monocyte homogenates from both groups. Functionally, suppression of lipopolysaccharide-induced synthesis of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in monocytes as well as phytohemagglutinin-induced T cell proliferation in peripheral blood mononuclear cell fractions by PDE4 and PDE3/4 inhibitors was compared. RESULTS: Identical PDE activities and mRNA expression profiles were found in all cells from normal and atopic donors except that there was an increase in the mRNA levels of PDE4A and PDE4B2 in atopic T cells, which was, however, not reflected in overall PDE4A activity. In addition, no differences in sensitivity of the functional responses to PDE inhibitors were noted. The mixed PDE3/4 inhibitor zardaverine was a more potent inhibitor of T cell proliferation than rolipram, a selective PDE4 inhibitor. CONCLUSION: No evidence for alterations of PDE activities in atopy is provided by our findings.

3',5'-Cyclic-AMP Phosphodiesterases↗

Characterization of the phosphodiesterase (PDE) pattern of in vitro-generated human dendritic cells (DC) and the influence of PDE inhibitors on DC function.

During differentiation of human monocytes (CD14(+)/CD1a(-)) to CD14(-)/CD1a(+)dendritic cells (DC), a drastic decrease in PDE4 activity was observed, while activities of PDE1 and PDE3 substantially increased. DC released tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge, which was abolished both by dexamethasone and the cyclic AMP-elevating drugs db-cAMP and PGE(2). In addition, rolipram, at PDE4-selective concentrations, blocked TNF release by 37 +/- 5% (P<0.05 vs. control). The PDE3 inhibitor motapizone only marginally influenced TNF synthesis, but a synergistic inhibitory effect was noted in combination with rolipram. Qualitatively, similar inhibitory effects were observed in DC-stimulated T cell responses. Motapizone, lacking efficacy when used alone, increased the effect of rolipram in blocking CD4(+)T lymphocyte proliferation in response to antigen (Ag) (tetanus toxoid, TT; keyhole limpet hemocyanin, KLH) presented by DC and in allogeneic mixed leukocyte reactions (MLR). However, in these coculture systems the T cells rather than the DC seem to be the major target cells of PDE-inhibitor action. In summary, PDE inhibitors can affect DC function directly as demonstrated by blocking TNF release and their efficacy reflects the changes in the PDE activity profile during differentiation from their monocyte precursors. These results together with the known efficacy of PDE3/4 inhibitors in T cells support the concept of combined PDE3/4 inhibitors for asthma therapy.

Cell Division↗

Safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of TQC3721, an innovative, dual PDE3 and PDE4 inhibitor, in healthy subjects and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase I and IIa clinical trials.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: TQC3721 is a novel inhaled dual phosphodiesterase (PDE3/4) inhibitor designed to provide bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory effects for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: First-in-human randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase I (SAD: 0.2 to 24&#x2009;mg single dose; MAD: 12&#x2009;mg once daily (QD) for 7&#x2009;days in healthy subjects) and phase IIa studies (0.75 to 6&#x2009;mg once or twice daily for 4&#x2009;weeks in moderate-to-severe patients with COPD) were conducted. Primary outcomes included safety, pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics (PDs), change from baseline of forced expiratory volume in the first second [FEV1], and FEV1 at 12 and 24&#x2009;h post-dose on days 1 and 28. KEY RESULTS: TQC3721 was rapidly absorbed (median Tmax of 0.25 to 0.5&#x2009;h), mainly by pulmonary absorption rather than gastrointestinal absorption, along with low systemic exposure and lack of significant accumulation. TQC3721 demonstrated favourable safety profiles in healthy subjects and patients with COPD. In patients with COPD, TQC3721 produced rapid and outstanding bronchodilation effect sustained over 12&#x2009;h post-administration, with FEV1 peaking at approximately 2&#x2009;h post-dose and returning to baseline levels by 12&#x2009;h, which supports a twice-daily dosing regimen for the future, and peak FEV&#x2081; improvements ranging from 186 to 272&#x2009;ml across dose groups after 4&#x2009;weeks of treatment. Moreover, twice-daily 3 and 6&#x2009;mg regimens were recommended for further clinical study. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Pharmacokinetic features, significant bronchodilation effects and overall favourable safety characteristics support further clinical development of TQC3721 as a potential dual-mechanism therapy for COPD.

Adult↗

Subthreshold doses of specific phosphodiesterase type 3 and 4 inhibitors enhance the pulmonary vasodilatory response to nebulized prostacyclin with improvement in gas exchange.

Aerosolized prostacyclin (PGI(2)) has been suggested for selective pulmonary vasodilation, but its effect rapidly levels off after termination of nebulization. Stabilization of the second-messenger cAMP by phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibition may offer a new strategy for amplification of the vasodilative response to nebulized PGI(2). In perfused rabbit lungs, continuous infusion of the thromboxane mimetic U46619 was used to establish stable pulmonary hypertension [increase in pulmonary arterial pressure (pPA) from approximately 7 to approximately 32 mm Hg], which is accompanied by progressive edema formation and severe disturbances in gas exchange with a predominance of shunt flow (increase from <2 to approximately 58%, as assessed by the multiple inert gas elimination technique). In the absence of PGI(2), dose-effect curves for intravascular and aerosol administration of the specific PDE3 inhibitor motapizone, the PDE4 inhibitor rolipram, and the dual-selective PDE3/4 inhibitor tolafentrine on pulmonary hemodynamics were established (potency rank order: rolipram > tolafentrine approximately motapizone; highest efficacy on coapplication of rolipram and motapizone). Ten-minute aerosolization of PGI(2) was chosen to effect a moderate pPA decrease (approximately 4 mm Hg; rapidly returning to prenebulization values within 10-15 min) with only a slight reduction in shunt flow (approximately 49%). Prior application of subthreshold doses of i.v. or inhaled PDE3 or PDE4 inhibitors, which per se did not affect pulmonary hemodynamics, caused prolongation of the post-PGI(2) decrease in pPA. The most effective approach, rolipram plus motapizone, amplified the maximum pPA decrease in response to PGI(2) to approximately 9 to 10 mm Hg, prolonged the post-PGI(2) vasorelaxation to >60 min, reduced the extent of lung edema formation by 50%, and decreased the shunt flow to approximately 19% (i.v. rolipram/motapizone) and 28% (aerosolized rolipram/motapizone). We conclude that lung PDE3/4 inhibition, achieved by intravascular or transbronchial administration of subthreshold doses of specific PDE inhibitors, synergistically amplifies the pulmonary vasodilatory response to inhaled PGI(2), concomitant with an improvement in ventilation-perfusion matching and a reduction in lung edema formation. The combination of nebulized PGI(2) and PDE3/4 inhibition may thus offer a new concept for selective pulmonary vasodilation, with maintenance of gas exchange in respiratory failure and pulmonary hypertension.

15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5↗

The effect of selective and non-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors on allergen- and leukotriene C(4)-induced contractions in passively sensitized human airways.

Non-selective inhibitors of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE) block allergen-induced contraction of passively sensitized human airways in vitro by a dual mechanism involving a direct relaxant effect on smooth muscle and inhibition of histamine and cysteinyl leukotriene (LT) release from airways. We investigated the effects of non-selective PDE inhibitors and selective inhibitors of PDE3 and PDE4 in order to determine the involvement of PDE isoenzymes in the suppression of allergic bronchoconstriction. Macroscopically normal airways from 76 patients were sensitized with IgE-rich sera (>250 u ml(-1)) containing specific antibodies against allergen (Dermatophagoides farinae). Contractile responses of bronchial rings were assessed using standard organ bath techniques. Passive sensitization caused increased contractile responses to allergen, histamine and LTC(4). Non-selective PDE inhibitors (theophylline, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine [IBMX]), a PDE3-selective inhibitor (motapizone), PDE4-selective inhibitors (RP73401, rolipram, AWD 12-281) and a mixed PDE3/4 inhibitor (zardaverine) all significantly relaxed inherent bronchial tone at resting tension and to a similar degree. Theophylline, IBMX, zardaverine and the combination of motapizone and RP73401 inhibited the contractile responses to allergen and LTC(4). Pre-treatment with motapizone, RP73401, rolipram or the methylxanthine adenosine receptor antagonist, 8-phenyltheophylline, did not significantly decrease responses to either allergen or LTC(4). We conclude that combined inhibition of PDE3 and PDE4, but not selective inhibition of either isoenzyme or antagonism of adenosine receptors, is effective in suppressing allergen-induced contractions of passively sensitized human airways. The relationship between allergen- and LTC(4)-induced responses suggests that PDE inhibitors with PDE3 and PDE4 selectivity are likely to act in part through inhibition of mediator release and not simply through direct relaxant actions on airway smooth muscle.

1-Methyl-3-isobutylxanthine↗

Evidence to suggest that the phosphodiesterase 4 isoenzyme is present and involved in the proliferation of umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells.

BACKGROUND: The type 4 phosphodiesterase (PDE) isoenzyme is the main isoenzyme of PDE involved in the control of adult mononuclear cell proliferation. OBJECTIVE: To establish whether PDE isoenzymes are present in umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells by the use of selective PDE inhibitors, and to identify which PDE isoenzymes are involved in controlling the proliferation of cord blood mononuclear cells. METHODS: Cord blood was obtained from normal deliveries and mononuclear cells isolated as described previously [1] with some modifications. Mononuclear cells were then stimulated to proliferate with phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) (2 microg/mL) in the presence of selective PDE inhibitors. Proliferation was measured by [3H]-thymidine incorporation. RESULTS: The type 4 PDE inhibitors (CDP840, rolipram and RO 20-1724), and the mixed PDE3/4 inhibitor, zardaverine, produced a concentration-related inhibition of PHA-stimulated cord blood mononuclear cell proliferation (P < 0.05, ANOVA). The non-selective PDE inhibitor, theophylline, also produced a concentration-related inhibition of proliferation (P < 0.05, ANOVA). In contrast, the PDE1 inhibitor, vinpocetine, the PDE3 inhibitor, siguazodan, and the PDE5 inhibitor, zaprinast, were unable to inhibit cord blood mononuclear cell proliferation. CONCLUSION: PDE4 is present in umbilical cord mononuclear cells and is involved in the control of cord blood mononuclear cell proliferation.

3',5'-Cyclic-AMP Phosphodiesterases↗

Coaerosolization of phosphodiesterase inhibitors markedly enhances the pulmonary vasodilatory response to inhaled iloprost in experimental pulmonary hypertension. Maintenance of lung selectivity.

Inhalation of aerosolized iloprost, a stable prostacyclin analog, has been suggested for treatment of primary and secondary pulmonary hypertension, but demands multiple daily inhalation maneuvers because of the short-term effect of this approach. In intact rabbits, pulmonary hypertension was induced by continuous infusion of the stable thromboxane mimetic U46619. Thereafter, the influence of aerosolized iloprost on pulmonary and systemic hemodynamics and gas exchange was investigated in the presence and absence of phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors for stabilization of the second-messenger cAMP. First, dose-effect curves for pulmonary artery pressure (Ppa) decline were established for the nonspecific PDE inhibitors pentoxifylline and dipyridamole and for the dual-selective PDE3/4 inhibitor tolafentrine when being applied as sole agent, either via the intravenous or the inhalative route. Subthreshold doses for each agent and each route of administration were then combined with a standardized iloprost aerosolization maneuver, which resulted in a substantial prolongation, but not augmentation, of the lung vasodilatory response for the prostanoid. Next, higher doses of each PDE inhibitor were employed for nebulization, causing per se some pulmonary vasodilative effect, in the absence of arterial pressure decrease or impairment of gas exchange. Coaerosolization of these PDE inhibitor doses with standardized iloprost caused approximate doubling of the immediate pulmonary vasodilator response, marked prolongation of the pressure relief overtime, and a 2- to 4-fold increase in the area under the curve of pulmonary vasodilation (efficacy tolafentrine > dipyridamole > pentoxifylline). Still, systemic arterial pressure was not suppressed and gas exchange was fully maintained. We conclude that coadministration of PDE inhibitors with inhaled iloprost markedly enhances the prostanoid-induced pulmonary artery pressure decrease while maintaining the lung selectivity of the vasodilatory response, and that coaerosolization is a particularly suitable route of administration. Even nonselective clinically approved PDE inhibitors may be employed for this purpose.

15-Hydroxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-(epoxymethano)prosta-5↗

In vitro differentiation of human monocytes to macrophages: change of PDE profile and its relationship to suppression of tumour necrosis factor-alpha release by PDE inhibitors.

1. During in vitro culture in 10% human AB serum, human peripheral blood monocytes acquire a macrophage-like phenotype. The underlying differentiation was characterized by increased activities of the macrophage marker enzymes unspecific esterase (NaF-insensitive form) and acid phosphatase, as well as by a down-regulation in surface CD14 expression. 2. In parallel, a dramatic change in the phosphodiesterase (PDE) profile became evident within a few days that strongly resembled that previously described for human alveolar macrophages. Whereas PDE1 and PDE3 activities were augmented, PDE4 activity, which represented the major cyclic AMP-hydrolysing activity of peripheral blood monocytes, rapidly declined. 3. Monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages responded to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with the release of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF). In line with the change in CD14 expression, the EC50 value of LPS for induction of TNF release increased from approximately 0.1 ng ml-1 in peripheral blood monocytes to about 2 ng ml-1 in macrophages. 4. Both populations of cells were equally susceptible towards inhibition of TNF release by cyclic AMP elevating agents such as dibutyryl cyclic AMP, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) or forskolin, which all led to a complete abrogation of TNF production in a concentration-dependent manner and which were more efficient than the glucocorticoid dexamethasone. 5. In monocytes, PDE4 selective inhibitors (rolipram, RP73401) suppressed TNF formation by 80%, whereas motapizone, a PDE3 selective compound, exerted a comparatively weak effect (10-15% inhibition). Combined use of PDE3 plus PDE4 inhibitors resulted in an additive effect and fully abrogated LPS-induced TNF release as did the mixed PDE3/4 inhibitor tolafentrine. 6. In monocyte-derived macrophages, neither PDE3- nor PDE4-selective drugs markedly affected TNF generation when used alone (< 15% inhibition), whereas in combination, they led to a maximal inhibition of TNF formation by about 40-50%. However, in the presence of PGE2 (10 nM), motapizone and rolipram or RP73401 were equally effective and blocked TNF release by 40%. Tolafentrine or motapizone in the presence of either PDE4 inhibitor, completely abrogated TNF formation in the presence of PGE2. Thus, an additional cyclic AMP trigger is necessary for PDE inhibitors to become effective in macrophages. 7. Finally, the putative regulatory role for PDE1 in the regulation of TNF production in macrophages was investigated. Zaprinast, at a concentration showing 80% inhibition of PDE1 activity (100 micromol l-1), did not influence TNF release. At higher concentrations (1 mmol l-1), zaprinast became effective, but this inhibition of TNF release can be attributed to a significant inhibitory action of this drug on PDE3 and PDE4 isoenzymes. 8. In summary, the in vitro differentiation of human peripheral blood monocytes to macrophages is characterized by a profound change in the PDE isoenzyme pattern. The change in the PDE4 to PDE3 ratio is functionally reflected by an altered susceptibility towards selective PDE inhibitors under appropriate stimulating conditions.

Cell Differentiation↗

Anti-spasmogenic activity of isoenzyme-selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors in guinea-pig trachealis.

1 The anti-spasmogenic potential of SK&F 94120 (PDE3-selective), rolipram (PDE4-selective), zaprinast (PDE5-selective), zardaverine (dual PDE3/4 inhibitor) and theophylline (non-selective) was evaluated in guinea-pig trachealis. 2 SK&F 94120 or rolipram (10 and 100 microM) antagonized histamine-induced tension generation in a concentration-dependent and non-competitive manner whereas ACh-induced contractions were unaffected. Similarly, SK&F 94120 and rolipram in combination were anti-spasmogenic with respect to both contractile agonists to an extent that was greater than the effect of either drug alone. Identical results were obtained with zardaverine (1, 10 and 100 microM) and theophylline (100 microM and 1 mM). 3 Zaprinast protected guinea-pig trachealis against histamine-, but not ACh-induced contractile responses in a manner that was indistinguishable from the results obtained with SK&F 94120. However, in contrast to the interaction between SK&F 94120 and rolipram, no further antagonism was seen when zaprinast and rolipram were used in combination. 4 Pre-treatment of tissues with SNP (10 and 100 microM) antagonized histamine-induced tension generation in a concentration-dependent and non-competitive manner. However, no further antagonism was produced when SNP and rolipram were used concurrently. Likewise, the protection afforded by a combination SNP and SK&F 94120 was no greater than that produced by SNP alone. 5 These results demonstrate that an inhibitor of PDE3 enhances the anti-spasmogenic activity of rolipram but not drugs that elevate cyclic GMP mass. Moreover, the ability of SNP and zaprinast to protect guinea-pig trachealis against histamine-induced contractions apparently is not due to the inhibition of PDE3.

3',5'-Cyclic-AMP Phosphodiesterases↗

The pharmacology of two novel long-acting phosphodiesterase 3/4 inhibitors, RPL554 [9,10-dimethoxy-2(2,4,6-trimethylphenylimino)-3-(n-carbamoyl-2-aminoethyl)-3,4,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-pyrimido[6,1-a]isoquinolin-4-one] and RPL565 [6,7-dihydro-2-(2,6-diisopropylphenoxy)-9,10-dimethoxy-4H-pyrimido[6,1-a]isoquinolin-4-one].

The pharmacology of two novel, trequinsin-like PDE3/4 inhibitors, RPL554 [9,10-dimethoxy-2(2,4,6-trimethylphenylimino)-3-(N-carbamoyl-2-aminoethyl)-3,4,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-pyrimido-[6,1-a]isoquinolin-4-one] and RPL565 [6,7-dihydro-2-(2,6-diisopropylphenoxy)-9,10-dimethoxy-4H-pyrimido[6,1-a]isoquinolin-4-one], has been investigated in a number of in vitro and in vivo assays. Electrical field stimulation-induced contraction of guinea pig superfused isolated tracheal preparations was significantly inhibited by RPL554 (10 microM) and RPL565 (10 microM) (percentage control; 93 +/- 1.2 and 84.4 +/- 2.7, respectively). Contractile responses were suppressed for up to 12 h after termination of superfusion with RPL554 demonstrating a long duration of action. RPL554 and RPL565 inhibited, in a concentration-dependent manner, lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis factor alpha release from human monocytes [IC50; 0.52 microM (0.38-0.69) and 0.25 microM (0.18-0.35), respectively] and proliferation of human mononuclear cells to phytohemagglutinin [IC50; 0.46 microM (0.24-0.9) and 2.90 microM (1.6-5.4), respectively]. The inhibitory effect of these drugs in vitro was translated into anti-inflammatory activity in vivo. RPL554 (10 mg/kg) and RPL565 (10 mg/kg) administered orally significantly inhibited eosinophil recruitment following antigen challenge in ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs. Likewise, inhalation of dry powder containing RPL554 by conscious guinea pigs (25% in micronized lactose) 1.5 h before antigen exposure significantly inhibited the recruitment of eosinophils to the airways. Exposure of conscious guinea pigs to inhalation of dry powder containing RPL554 (2.5%) and RPL565 (25%) in micronized lactose significantly inhibited histamine-induced plasma protein extravasation in the trachea and histamine-induced bronchoconstriction over a 5.5-h period. Thus, RPL554 and RPL565 are novel, long-acting PDE 3/4 inhibitors exhibiting a broad range of both bronchoprotective and anti-inflammatory activities.

3',5'-Cyclic-AMP Phosphodiesterases↗

cAMP phosphodiesterase inhibitors potentiate effects of prostacyclin analogs in hypoxic pulmonary vascular remodeling.

We investigated the effects of prostacyclin analogs and isoform-selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, alone and in combination, on pulmonary vascular remodeling in vitro and in vivo. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) isolated from pulmonary (proximal and distal) and systemic circulations demonstrated subtle variations in expression of PDE isoform mRNA. However, using biochemical assays, we found PDE3 and PDE4 isoforms to be responsible for the majority of cAMP hydrolysis in all VSMC. In growth assays, the prostacyclin analogs cicaprost and iloprost inhibited mitogen-induced proliferation of VSMC in a cAMP-dependent manner. In addition, isoform-selective antagonists of PDEs 1, 3, or 4 inhibited VSMC proliferation, an effect that synergized with the effect of prostacyclin analogs. The inhibitory effects were greater in cells isolated from pulmonary circulation. In an in situ perfused rat lung preparation, administration of prostacyclin analogs or the PDE inhibitors vinpocetine (PDE1), cilostamide (PDE3), or rolipram (PDE4), but not EHNA (PDE2), attenuated acute hypoxic vasoconstriction (HPV). Combinations of agents led to a greater reduction in HPV. Furthermore, during exposure to hypoxia for 13 days, Wistar rats were treated with iloprost, rolipram, cilostamide, or combinations of these agents. Compared with normoxic controls, hypoxic animals developed pulmonary hypertension and distal pulmonary artery muscularization. These parameters were attenuated by iloprost+cilostamide, iloprost+rolipram, and cilostamide+rolipram but were not significantly affected by single agents. Together, these findings provide a greater understanding of the role of cAMP PDEs in VSMC proliferation and provide rationale for combined use of prostacylcin analogs plus PDE3/4 inhibitors in treatment of pulmonary vascular remodeling.

3',5'-Cyclic-AMP Phosphodiesterases↗

Inhaled tolafentrine reverses pulmonary vascular remodeling via inhibition of smooth muscle cell migration.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to assess the chronic effects of combined phosphodiesterase 3/4 inhibitor tolafentrine, administered by inhalation, during monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in rats. METHODS: CD rats were given a single subcutaneous injection of monocrotaline to induce PAH. Four weeks after, rats were subjected to inhalation of tolafentrine or sham nebulization in an unrestrained, whole body aerosol exposure system. In these animals (i) the acute pulmonary vasodilatory efficacy of inhaled tolafentrine (ii) the anti-remodeling effect of long-term inhalation of tolafentrine (iii) the effects of tolafentrine on the expression profile of 96 genes encoding cell adhesion and extracellular matrix regulation were examined. In addition, the inhibitory effect of tolafentrine on ex vivo isolated pulmonary artery SMC cell migration was also investigated. RESULTS: Monocrotaline injection provoked severe PAH (right ventricular systolic pressure increased from 25.9 +/- 4.0 to 68.9 +/- 3.2 after 4 weeks and 74.9 +/- 5.1 mmHg after 6 weeks), cardiac output depression and right heart hypertrophy. The media thickness of the pulmonary arteries and the proportion of muscularization of small precapillary resistance vessels increased dramatically, and the migratory response of ex-vivo isolated pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) was increased. Micro-arrays and subsequent confirmation with real time PCR demonstrated upregulation of several extracellular matrix regulation and adhesion genes, such as matrixmetalloproteases (MMP) 2, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 20, Icam, Itgax, Plat and serpinb2. When chronically nebulized from day 28 to 42 (12 daily aerosol maneuvers), after full establishment of severe pulmonary hypertension, tolafentrine reversed about 60% of all hemodynamic abnormalities, right heart hypertrophy and monocrotaline-induced structural lung vascular changes, including the proportion of pulmonary artery muscularization. The upregulation of extracellular matrix regulation and adhesion genes was reduced by nearly 80% by inhalation of the tolafentrine. When assessed in vitro, tolafentrine blocked the enhanced PASMC migratory response. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time that inhalation of combined PDE3/4 inhibitor reverses pulmonary hypertension fully developed in response to monocrotaline in rats. This "reverse-remodeling" effect includes structural changes in the lung vascular wall and key molecular pathways of matrix regulation, concomitant with 60% normalization of hemodynamics.

Administration, Inhalation↗

The effect duration of selective phosphodiesterase inhibitors in the guinea pig.

The beta-adrenoceptor agonists, isoprenaline, salbutamol and salmeterol, the non-selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) isoenzyme inhibitors, theophylline, trequinsin; the PDE3 isoenzyme inhibitor, milrinone; the PDE3/4 isoenzyme inhibitor, benzafentrine; and the PDE4 isoenzyme inhibitors, denbufylline, nitraquazone, RP 73401, Ro-20-1724, rolipram and tibenelast all induced concentration-dependent reversal of prostaglandin F2alpha-induced contraction of guinea-pig superfused trachea in vitro. The relaxant response of the non-selective PDE isoenzyme inhibitor trequinsin was slow in onset and demonstrated very slow recovery, similar to that observed with the long-acting beta2-adrenoceptor agonist, salmeterol and the PDE4 inhibitor, RP 73401. The relaxant agonists also significantly reversed bombesin-induced bronchospasm in anaesthetised guinea-pigs and there was a highly significant correlation between the ability of drugs to reverse PGF2alpha-induced contraction of guinea-pig isolated trachea in vitro and bombesin-induced bronchoconstriction in vivo. Furthermore, both salmeterol and trequinsin demonstrated long lasting bronchodilator responses consistent with the in vitro data. These results show that PDE isoenzyme inhibitors demonstrate different pharmacodynamic profiles that is not determined by PDE4 inhibitory potency and indicate that other factors may be important in this regard.

Adrenergic beta-Agonists↗

Possible Contribution of Prostaglandin E2 to the antiproliferative effect of phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitors in human mononuclear cells.

Phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4, mixed PDE3/4, and non-selective PDE inhibitors have been shown to inhibit the proliferation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (HPBM). The aim of the present study was to examine whether endogenous prostaglandins, in particular prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), are involved in mediating the antiproliferative actions of PDE inhibitors, by comparing their effects with drugs which elevate or mimic adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) through mechanisms other than PDE inhibition. Indomethacin significantly reduced the antiproliferative effects of the PDE4 inhibitors rolipram and CDP840 and the mixed PDE3/4 inhibitor zardaverine, increasing the IC50 values from 2.51 microM to >10 microM, 0.81 microM to 2.82 microM, and 1.58 microM to 4.82 microM, respectively (P < 0.05), but did not alter the effects of theophylline. Forskolin, PGE2, and dibutyryl cAMP also inhibited HPBM proliferation, and in the presence of indomethacin the effects of forskolin and dibutyryl cAMP were reduced (although this was not significant), whereas PGE2 was not affected. Rolipram, CDP840, zardaverine, and dibutyryl cAMP all produced a concentration-related increase in PGE2 production (P < 0.05, ANOVA), but theophylline significantly increased PGE2 production only at the highest concentration examined, 1000 microM. The ability of indomethacin to reduce the antiproliferative effects of rolipram, CDP840, and zardaverine, together with the fact that these drugs can stimulate PGE2 production, suggests that their antiproliferative actions may be mediated in part by stimulation of endogenous PGE2 production. In contrast, it appears that endogenous PGE2 is not critical for the antiproliferative actions of theophylline, forskolin, and dibutyryl cAMP in HPBM. These results establish the importance of co-ordinated regulation of the cAMP phosphodiesterase and cyclooxygenase-PGE2 systems for the regulation of lymphocyte function in man, and have clinical implications for therapeutic approaches to diseases associated with lymphocyte dysregulation.

3',5'-Cyclic-AMP Phosphodiesterases↗

Modulation of spasmogen-stimulated Ins(1,4,5)P3 generation and functional responses by selective inhibitors of types 3 and 4 phosphodiesterase in airways smooth muscle.

1. The effects of isoenzyme-selective inhibitors of phosphodiesterases PDE3 and PDE4 on cyclic AMP concentration, two indices of phosphoinositide hydrolysis, and contractile responses to spasmogens have been investigated in bovine tracheal smooth muscle (BTSM). 2. Neither the PDE3-selective inhibitor ORG 9935, nor the PDE4-selective inhibitor rolipram increased cyclic AMP levels in BTSM. However, rolipram addition in the presence of PDE3 inhibition (ORG 9935; 1 microM) concentration-dependently (-log EC50 (M), 6.55+/-0.15; n = 3) increased cyclic AMP levels to about 70% of the maximal response to the beta-adrenoceptor agonist isoprenaline. 3. Rolipram per se inhibited histamine-stimulated [3H]-inositol (poly)phosphate ([3H]-InsP(X)) accumulation by > 80% (-log EC50 (M), 6.92+/-0.11; n = 3). Although ORG 9935 (1 microM) had little effect on histamine-stimulated [3H]-InsP(X) accumulation alone it greatly facilitated the inhibitory action of rolipram (-log EC50 (M), 8.82+/-0.39; n = 3). The effects of PDE3 and/or PDE4 inhibition on [3H]-InsP(X) accumulation stimulated by muscarinic acetylcholine (mACh) receptor activation were less marked. However, combined PDE3/4 inhibition significantly decreased this response at a submaximal concentration of mACh receptor agonist (carbachol; 1 microM). 4. The greater-than-additive effect of combined PDE3/4 inhibition was also observed at the level of contractile responses to histamine and carbachol. In experiments designed to investigate the effects of PDE3 and/or 4 inhibitors on the carbachol-mediated phasic contraction, additions of rolipram (10 microM) or ORG 9935 (1 microM) were without effect, whereas added together the inhibitors caused a significant (P < 0.01) 40% reduction in the peak phasic contractile response. 5. The effect on contraction correlated with a substantial inhibitory effect of PDE3/4 inhibition on the initial increase in inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) accumulation stimulated by spasmogen. Thus, in the presence of ORG 9935 (1 microM) rolipram concentration-dependently inhibited carbachol-stimulated InsP3 accumulation by > or = 50% (-log EC50 (M), 6.77+/-0.21; n = 4). 6. Carbachol (100 microM) addition caused a rapid decrease (by 67% at 10 s) in BTSM cyclic AMP level in the presence of PDE3/4 inhibition. However, omission of Ca2+ from the incubation medium prevented the carbachol-evoked decrease in cyclic AMP and this coincided with a greater inhibition (> or = 80%) of the carbachol-stimulated InsP3 response. 7. These data indicate that combined PDE3 and PDE4 inhibition has greater-than-additive effects on second messenger and functional responses to spasmogens in BTSM. Furthermore, the ability of PDE3/4 inhibition significantly to attenuate mACh receptor-mediated contractile responses, may be, at least in part, attributed to an effect exerted at the level of InsP3 generation.

Animals↗

Novel, potent, and selective phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors as antiasthmatic agents: synthesis and biological activities of a series of 1-pyridylnaphthalene derivatives.

The structural requirements for potent and selective PDE4 inhibition were revealed in a 1-pyridylnaphthalene series, and the best compound (3kg, T-2585.HCl) was chosen for further biological evaluation (PDE4 inhibition IC50 = 0.13 nM, selectivity PDE3/4 ratio = 14 000). Compound 3kg showed potent antispasmogenic activities (ED50 = 0.063 mg/kg for reduction of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction, intravenously; ED50 = 0.033 mg/kg for reduction of histamine-induced bronchoconstriction, intraduodenally) in guinea pigs with little cardiovascular effects. Furthermore, 3kg induced significantly weaker emetic effects than RP73401 after oral administration in ferrets and intravenous administration in dogs (3kg, none of 4 ferrets vomited at a dose of 10 mg/kg, po and none of 8 dogs vomited at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg, iv; RP73401, 4 of 8 ferrets vomited at a dose of 3 mg/kg, po and 6 of 8 dogs vomited at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg, iv); that is compatible with the lower affinity for the high-affinity rolipram binding site (3kg, 2.6 nM; RP73401, 0. 85 nM). This may imply that 3kg has an improved therapeutic ratio because of a broad margin between the Ki value of binding affinity and the IC50 value of PDE4 inhibition (ratio = 0.050).

3',5'-Cyclic-AMP Phosphodiesterases↗