The influence of nicergoline on reaction kinetics of various forms of cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase.

10-Methoxy-1,6-dimethylergoline-8 beta-methanol-5-bromonicotinate (nicergoline) has in vitro a modulatory effect upon reaction kinetics of various forms of cAMP phosphodiesterase (PDE) from beef heart and mice brain. Nicergoline inhibits low Km form of cAMP PDE from hear and brain; concentration of inhibitor required for 50% inhibition is 3-12 mumol/l. It is believe that the observed in vitro effects of nicergoline on reaction kinetics of various forms of cAMP PDE may in vivo help to normalize the level of cAMP, keep its concentration within certain limits, both by opposing large increase and large decrease in its cellular concentration.