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Effects of MCH/NEI in the striatum and interactions between them and with alpha-MSH on IP3 levels
Mónica Silvina Sanchez1, Victoria Berberian, María Ester Celis
1Laboratorio de Fisiología, Departmento de Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Casilla de Correos 61, Agencia Postal 4, Córdoba, Argentina.
Abstract:
In this study, we investigated: (a) the effect of melanocyte concentrating hormone (MCH) and neuropeptide glutamine (E)-isoleusine-(I) (NEI) on IP(3) production on an "in vitro" model using slices containing caudate putamen (CP) and accumbens nuclei (ACC); and (b) the interaction between these peptides and with alpha-melanocyte-stimulating-hormone (alpha-MSH) on the production of this second messenger. Only MCH at the highest dose studied (3.6 microM) increased the production of IP(3), whereas at the low concentration (0.6 microM) it did not affect IP(3) levels. NEI and alpha-MSH at both concentrations tested (0.6 and 3.6 microM), did not affect IP(3) production either. However, when NEI or alpha-MSH (at 3.6 microM) were added together with 3.6 microM MCH, the increase in the IP(3) content induced by this last peptide was blocked.
Insights
Melanocyte concentrating hormone (MCH) increased inositol trisphosphate (IP3) levels in brain slices. However, neuropeptide glutamine (E)-isoleusine-(I) (NEI) and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating-hormone (alpha-MSH) blocked this effect, suggesting complex peptide interactions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Molecular Neuroscience
Background:
- Inositol trisphosphate (IP3) is a crucial second messenger in intracellular signaling pathways.
- Melanocyte concentrating hormone (MCH) and other neuropeptides play roles in regulating neuronal activity and behavior.
- Understanding the interplay of these signaling molecules is vital for deciphering brain function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of MCH and NEI on IP3 production in specific brain regions.
- To examine the interactions between MCH, NEI, and alpha-MSH on IP3 signaling.
- To elucidate the role of these peptides in modulating intracellular calcium signaling.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an in vitro model with brain slices from caudate putamen (CP) and accumbens nuclei (ACC).
- Measured IP3 production in response to varying concentrations of MCH, NEI, and alpha-MSH.
- Assessed the impact of combined peptide treatments on IP3 levels.
Main Results:
- MCH significantly increased IP3 production at a high concentration (3.6 microM) but not at a low concentration (0.6 microM).
- NEI and alpha-MSH alone did not alter IP3 levels at tested concentrations.
- Co-administration of NEI or alpha-MSH with MCH blocked the MCH-induced increase in IP3.
Conclusions:
- MCH modulates IP3 production in the CP and ACC, indicating its involvement in intracellular signaling in these areas.
- NEI and alpha-MSH act as antagonists to MCH's effect on IP3 production.
- These findings highlight complex regulatory mechanisms involving MCH, NEI, and alpha-MSH in brain signaling pathways.
