Xestospongins (Xe's) A, C, D, araguspongine B, and demethylxestospongi
n B, a group of macrocyclic bis-1-oxaquinolizidines isolated from the
Australian sponge, Xestospongia species, are shown to be potent blocke
rs of IP3-mediated Ca2+ release from endoplasmic reticulum vesicles of
rabbit cerebellum. XeC blocks IP3-induced Ca2+ release (IC50 = 358 nM
) without interacting with the IP3-binding site, suggesting a mechanis
m that is independent of the IP3 effector site. Analysis of Pheochormo
cytoma cells and primary astrocytes loaded with Ca2+-sensitive dye rev
eals that XeC selectively blocks bradykinin-and carbamylcholine-induce
d Ca2+ efflux from endoplasmic reticulum stores. Xe's represent a new
class of potent, membrane permeable IP3 receptor blockers exhibiting a
high selectivity over ryanodine receptors. Xe's are a valuable tool f
or investigating the structure and function of IP3 receptors and Ca2signaling in neuronal and nonneuronal cells.