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Gautier MK, Kelley CM, Lee SH, Mufson EJ, Ginsberg SD. Maternal choline supplementation rescues early endosome pathology in basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in the Ts65Dn mouse model of Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2024; 144:30-42. [PMID: 39265450 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2024.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
Individuals with DS develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology, including endosomal-lysosomal system abnormalities and degeneration of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs). We investigated whether maternal choline supplementation (MCS) affects early endosome pathology within BFCNs using the Ts65Dn mouse model of DS/AD. Ts65Dn and disomic (2N) offspring from dams administered MCS were analyzed for endosomal pathology at 3-4 months or 10-12 months. Morphometric analysis of early endosome phenotype was performed on individual BFCNs using Imaris. The effects of MCS on the endosomal interactome were interrogated by relative co-expression (RCE) analysis. MCS effectively reduced age- and genotype-associated increases in early endosome number in Ts65Dn and 2N offspring, and prevented increases in early endosome size in Ts65Dn offspring. RCE revealed a loss of interactome cooperativity among endosome genes in Ts65Dn offspring that was restored by MCS. These findings demonstrate MCS rescues early endosome pathology, a driver of septohippocampal circuit dysfunction. The genotype-independent benefits of MCS on endosomal phenotype indicate translational applicability as an early-life therapy for DS as well as other neurodevelopmental/neurodegenerative disorders involving endosomal pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan K Gautier
- Center for Dementia Research, Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY, USA; Pathobiology and Translational Medicine Program, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christy M Kelley
- Complex Adaptive Systems Initiative, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA; Institute for Future Health, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Sang Han Lee
- Center for Dementia Research, Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elliott J Mufson
- Departments of Translational Neuroscience and Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Stephen D Ginsberg
- Center for Dementia Research, Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY, USA; NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Department of Neuroscience & Physiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Yaniv D, Mattson B, Talbot S, Gleber-Netto FO, Amit M. Targeting the peripheral neural-tumour microenvironment for cancer therapy. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024:10.1038/s41573-024-01017-z. [PMID: 39242781 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-01017-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
As the field of cancer neuroscience expands, the strategic targeting of interactions between neurons, cancer cells and other elements in the tumour microenvironment represents a potential paradigm shift in cancer treatment, comparable to the advent of our current understanding of tumour immunology. Cancer cells actively release growth factors that stimulate tumour neo-neurogenesis, and accumulating evidence indicates that tumour neo-innervation propels tumour progression, inhibits tumour-related pro-inflammatory cytokines, promotes neovascularization, facilitates metastasis and regulates immune exhaustion and evasion. In this Review, we give an up-to-date overview of the dynamics of the tumour microenvironment with an emphasis on tumour innervation by the peripheral nervous system, as well as current preclinical and clinical evidence of the benefits of targeting the nervous system in cancer, laying a scientific foundation for further clinical trials. Combining empirical data with a biomarker-driven approach to identify and hone neuronal targets implicated in cancer and its spread can pave the way for swift clinical integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yaniv
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Brandi Mattson
- The Neurodegeneration Consortium, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sebastien Talbot
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frederico O Gleber-Netto
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Moran Amit
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Jing Y, Ding Y, Fu H, Li T, Long T, Ye Q. Empagliflozin ameliorates ventricular arrhythmias by inhibiting sympathetic remodeling via nerve growth factor/tyrosine kinase receptor A pathway inhibition. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2024; 25:664-673. [PMID: 38949125 PMCID: PMC11296263 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) can ameliorate arrhythmias; however, the mechanisms underlying their antiarrhythmic effect remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to test the hypothesis that the SGLT2i empagliflozin (EMPA) ameliorates ventricular arrhythmias caused by myocardial infarction (MI) by inhibiting sympathetic remodeling. METHODS Male nondiabetic Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into Sham ( n = 10), MI ( n = 13), low-EMPA (10 mg/kg/day; n = 13), and high-EMPA (30 mg/kg/day; n = 13) groups. Except for the Sham group, MI models were established by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. After 4 weeks, the hearts were removed. Echocardiography, electrical stimulation, hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson's staining, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and ELISA were performed. RESULTS Except for left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT), EMPA treatment significantly ameliorated the left ventricular anterior wall thickness (LVAWT), interventricular septum thickness (IVST), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in MI rats; there was no statistical difference between the low-EMPA and high-EMPA groups. The threshold for ventricular fibrillation induction and myocardial fibrosis was significantly ameliorated in EMPA-treated rats, and there was no statistical difference between the high-EMPA and low-EMPA groups. EMPA decreased the expression of nerve growth factor (NGF), tyrosine kinase receptor A (TrkA), tyrosine hydroxylase, and growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43) in the left ventricular infarction margin myocardium of MI rats, especially in the high-EMPA group, with a statistically significant difference between the high-EMPA and low-EMPA groups. High-EMPA significantly decreased noradrenaline (NE) levels in the blood of MI rats; however, there was no statistical difference between the low-EMPA and MI groups. CONCLUSION EMPA ameliorated the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias in MI rats, which may be related to a reduction in sympathetic activity, inhibition of the NGF/TrkA pathway, inhibition of sympathetic remodeling, and improvement in cardiac function and cardiac structural remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Jing
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University
| | - Yanling Ding
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University
| | - Hengsong Fu
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education and Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University
| | - Ting Long
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qiang Ye
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University
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Li S, Ren X, Guan Y, Zhao F, Cao Y, Geng X, Wang Y, Wu N, Wu L, Zhao X. Genetic etiology study in a large cohort with congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis. Pain 2024; 165:1926-1943. [PMID: 38833577 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Pathogenic variations in the NTRK1 can cause congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA), a rare autosomal recessive inherited neuropathy. The precise diagnosis of CIPA relies on the identification of pathogenic genotypes. Therefore, it is essential to expand the NTRK1 variation spectrum and improve molecular diagnosis methods. In this study, 74 probands with typical manifestations of CIPA but unknown genotypes were recruited. A comprehensive molecular genetic analysis was performed to identify variations in the NTRK1 , using techniques including Sanger and next-generation sequencing, bioinformatic analysis, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), gap-PCR, short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping, and reverse-transcription PCR. In addition, functional assays were conducted to determine the pathogenicity of variants of uncertain significance (VUS) and further characterized changes in glycosylation and phosphorylation of 14 overexpressed mutant vectors with variants at different domains in the TrkA protein, which is encoded by NTRK1 . A total of 48 variations in the NTRK1 were identified, including 22 novel ones. When combined with data from another 53 CIPA patients examined in our previous work, this study establishes the largest genotypic and phenotypic spectra of CIPA worldwide, including 127 CIPA families. Moreover, functional studies indicated that the pathogenicity of VUS mainly affected insufficient glycosylation in the extracellular domain and abnormal phosphorylation in the intracellular domain. This study not only provides important evidence for precise diagnosis of CIPA but also further enriches our understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuzhi Ren
- Pediatric Orthopedics, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yun Guan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Feiyue Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics, State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yixuan Cao
- Department of Medical Genetics, State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xingzhu Geng
- Department of Medical Genetics, State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yanzhou Wang
- Department of Pediatric Orthopedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Nan Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lingqian Wu
- Center for Medical Genetics, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics & Hunan Key Laboratory of Animal Models for Human Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiuli Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics, State Key Laboratory for Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Pediatric Orthopedics, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Skv M, Abraham SM, Eshwari O, Golla K, Jhelum P, Maity S, Komal P. Tremendous Fidelity of Vitamin D3 in Age-related Neurological Disorders. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:7211-7238. [PMID: 38372958 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03989-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Vitamin D3 (VD) is a secosteroid hormone and shows a pleiotropic effect in brain-related disorders where it regulates redox imbalance, inflammation, apoptosis, energy production, and growth factor synthesis. Vitamin D3's active metabolic form, 1,25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3 or calcitriol), is a known regulator of several genes involved in neuroplasticity, neuroprotection, neurotropism, and neuroinflammation. Multiple studies suggest that VD deficiency can be proposed as a risk factor for the development of several age-related neurological disorders. The evidence for low serum levels of 25-hydroxy Vitamin D3 (25(OH)D3 or calcidiol), the major circulating form of VD, is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), dementia, and cognitive impairment. Despite decades of evidence on low VD association with neurological disorders, the precise molecular mechanism behind its beneficial effect remains controversial. Here, we will be delving into the neurobiological importance of VD and discuss its benefits in different neuropsychiatric disorders. The focus will be on AD, PD, and HD as they share some common clinical, pathological, and epidemiological features. The central focus will be on the different attributes of VD in the aspect of its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-cholinesterase activity, and psychotropic effect in different neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjari Skv
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani (BITS-Pilani) Hyderabad campus, Shameerpet-Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sharon Mariam Abraham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani (BITS-Pilani) Hyderabad campus, Shameerpet-Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Omalur Eshwari
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani (BITS-Pilani) Hyderabad campus, Shameerpet-Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Kishore Golla
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani (BITS-Pilani) Hyderabad campus, Shameerpet-Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Priya Jhelum
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience and Brain Program, The Research Instituteof the, McGill University Health Centre , Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Shuvadeep Maity
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani (BITS-Pilani) Hyderabad campus, Shameerpet-Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Pragya Komal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani (BITS-Pilani) Hyderabad campus, Shameerpet-Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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Chen Y, Guo B, Ma G, Cao H. Sensory nerve regulation of bone homeostasis: Emerging therapeutic opportunities for bone-related diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 99:102372. [PMID: 38880342 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the intricate interplay between sensory nerves and bone tissue cells is of paramount significance in the field of bone biology and clinical medicine. The regulatory role of sensory nerves in bone homeostasis offers a novel perspective for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions for a spectrum of bone-related diseases, including osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and intervertebral disc degeneration. By elucidating the mechanisms through which sensory nerves and their neuropeptides influence the differentiation and function of bone tissue cells, this review aims to shed light on emerging therapeutic targets that harness the neuro-skeletal axis for the treatment and management of debilitating bone disorders. Moreover, a comprehensive understanding of sensory nerve-mediated bone regulation may pave the way for the development of innovative strategies to promote bone health and mitigate the burden of skeletal pathologies in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of Guangdong, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Botao Guo
- The First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao, Hebei 066000, China
| | - Guixing Ma
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of Guangdong, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Huiling Cao
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Cell Microenvironment and Disease Research, Key University Laboratory of Metabolism and Health of Guangdong, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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Testa L, Dotta S, Vercelli A, Marvaldi L. Communicating pain: emerging axonal signaling in peripheral neuropathic pain. Front Neuroanat 2024; 18:1398400. [PMID: 39045347 PMCID: PMC11265228 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2024.1398400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve damage often leads to the onset of neuropathic pain (NeuP). This condition afflicts millions of people, significantly burdening healthcare systems and putting strain on families' financial well-being. Here, we will focus on the role of peripheral sensory neurons, specifically the Dorsal Root Ganglia neurons (DRG neurons) in the development of NeuP. After axotomy, DRG neurons activate regenerative signals of axons-soma communication to promote a gene program that activates an axonal branching and elongation processes. The results of a neuronal morphological cytoskeleton change are not always associated with functional recovery. Moreover, any axonal miss-targeting may contribute to NeuP development. In this review, we will explore the epidemiology of NeuP and its molecular causes at the level of the peripheral nervous system and the target organs, with major focus on the neuronal cross-talk between intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Specifically, we will describe how failures in the neuronal regenerative program can exacerbate NeuP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Testa
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
| | - Sofia Dotta
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vercelli
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
| | - Letizia Marvaldi
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
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Oner M, Chen MC, Cheng PT, Lin H. Metformin inhibits nerve growth factor-induced sympathetic neuron differentiation through p35/CDK5 inhibition. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C1648-C1658. [PMID: 38682237 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00121.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The authors' previous research has shown the pivotal roles of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) and its regulatory protein p35 in nerve growth factor (NGF)-induced differentiation of sympathetic neurons in PC12 cells. During the process of differentiation, neurons are susceptible to environmental influences, including the effects of drugs. Metformin is commonly used in the treatment of diabetes and its associated symptoms, particularly in diabetic neuropathy, which is characterized by dysregulation of the sympathetic neurons. However, the impacts of metformin on sympathetic neuronal differentiation remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the impact of metformin on NGF-induced sympathetic neuronal differentiation using rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells as a model. We examined the regulation of TrkA-p35/CDK5 signaling in NGF-induced PC12 differentiation. Our results demonstrate that metformin reduces NGF-induced PC12 differentiation by inactivating the TrkA receptor, subsequently inhibiting ERK and EGR1. Inhibition of this cascade ultimately leads to the downregulation of p35/CDK5 in PC12 cells. Furthermore, metformin inhibits the activation of the presynaptic protein Synapsin-I, a substrate of CDK5, in PC12 differentiation. In addition, metformin alters axonal and synaptic bouton formation by inhibiting p35 at both the axons and axon terminals in fully differentiated PC12 cells. In summary, our study elucidates that metformin inhibits sympathetic neuronal differentiation in PC12 cells by disrupting TrkA/ERK/EGR1 and p35/CDK5 signaling. This research contributes to uncovering a novel signaling mechanism in drug response during sympathetic neuronal differentiation, enhancing our understanding of the intricate molecular processes governing this critical aspect of neurodevelopment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study unveils a novel mechanism influenced by metformin during sympathetic neuronal differentiation. By elucidating its inhibitory effects from the nerve growth factor (NGF) receptor, TrkA, to the p35/CDK5 signaling pathways, we advance our understanding of metformin's mechanisms of action and emphasize its potential significance in the context of drug responses during sympathetic neuronal differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammet Oner
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chih Chen
- Department of Medical Research, Translational Cell Therapy Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pang-Ting Cheng
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ho Lin
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Sun L, Dai J, Zhang Y, Zhou L, Ren Y, Wang H. A novel NTRK1 splice site variant causing congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis in a Chinese family. Front Genet 2024; 15:1345081. [PMID: 38798698 PMCID: PMC11116696 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1345081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA, OMIM #256800), also known as hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type Ⅳ (HSAN-IV), is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by recurrent episodic fevers, anhidrosis, insensitivity to noxious stimuli, self-mutilating behavior and intellectual disability. CIPA can be caused by the variants in NTRK1 gene, which encodes a high-affinity tyrosine kinase receptor for nerve growth factor. To ascertain the hereditary cause of a patient with CIPA accompanied by the additional symptoms of mild growth retardation, prone to fracture, underdeveloped nails of fingers and toes, irregular tooth alignment, enamel hypoplasia, postoperative wound healing difficulty, hand and limb deformity, and dislocation of hip joint, whole exome sequencing was used and revealed a compound heterozygous variant in NTRK1. Methods DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples of pediatric patients and their parents, and subjected to comprehensive analysis using whole-exome sequencing (WES), followed by verification of variant sites in the NTRK1 gene through Sanger sequencing. To elucidate the functional impact of the newly discovered variants, an in vitro experimental system was established. Splicing analysis was conducted using PCR and Sanger sequencing, while expression levels were assessed through qPCR and Western blot techniques. Results One hotspot variant c.851-33T>A(ClinVar ID: 21308) and a novel variant c.850 + 5G>A(ClinVar ID:3069176) was inherited from her father and mother, respectively, identified in the affected individuals. The c.850 + 5G>A variant in NTRK1 resulted in two forms of aberrant mRNA splicing: 13bp deletion (c.838_850del13, p. Val280Ser fs180) and 25bp deletion (826_850del25, p. Val276Ser fs180) in exon 7, both leading to a translational termination at a premature stop codon and forming a C-terminal truncated protein. The expression of two abnormal splicing isoforms was decreased both in the level of mRNA and protein. Conclusion In conclusion, this study elucidated the genetic cause of a patient with CIPA and identified a novel variant c.850 + 5G>A in NTRK1, which broadened the and enriched the NTRK1 mutation spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin Dai
- Department of Orthopaedics, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lijun Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaqiong Ren
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hongying Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Pediatric Research, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Fukaya M, Ibuchi K, Sugawara T, Itakura M, Ito A, Shiroshima T, Hara Y, Okamoto H, Luton F, Sakagami H. EFA6A, an Exchange Factor for Arf6, Regulates NGF-Dependent TrkA Recycling From Early Endosomes and Neurite Outgrowth in PC12 Cells. Traffic 2024; 25:e12936. [PMID: 38725127 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Endosomal trafficking of TrkA is a critical process for nerve growth factor (NGF)-dependent neuronal cell survival and differentiation. The small GTPase ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (Arf6) is implicated in NGF-dependent processes in PC12 cells through endosomal trafficking and actin cytoskeleton reorganization. However, the regulatory mechanism for Arf6 in NGF signaling is largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that EFA6A, an Arf6-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor, was abundantly expressed in PC12 cells and that knockdown of EFA6A significantly inhibited NGF-dependent Arf6 activation, TrkA recycling from early endosomes to the cell surface, prolonged ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and neurite outgrowth. We also demonstrated that EFA6A forms a protein complex with TrkA through its N-terminal region, thereby enhancing its catalytic activity for Arf6. Similarly, we demonstrated that EFA6A forms a protein complex with TrkA in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Furthermore, cultured DRG neurons from EFA6A knockout mice exhibited disturbed NGF-dependent TrkA trafficking compared with wild-type neurons. These findings provide the first evidence for EFA6A as a key regulator of NGF-dependent TrkA trafficking and signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Fukaya
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kanta Ibuchi
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Takeyuki Sugawara
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Makoto Itakura
- Department of Biochemistry, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Akiko Ito
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Tomoko Shiroshima
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Yoshinobu Hara
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Hirotsugu Okamoto
- Department of Anesthesiology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Frédéric Luton
- CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), Université Côte d'Azur, Valbonne, France
| | - Hiroyuki Sakagami
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
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Reich N, Hölscher C. Cholecystokinin (CCK): a neuromodulator with therapeutic potential in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 73:101122. [PMID: 38346453 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2024.101122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a neuropeptide modulating digestion, glucose levels, neurotransmitters and memory. Recent studies suggest that CCK exhibits neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Thus, we review the physiological function and therapeutic potential of CCK. The neuropeptide facilitates hippocampal glutamate release and gates GABAergic basket cell activity, which improves declarative memory acquisition, but inhibits consolidation. Cortical CCK alters recognition memory and enhances audio-visual processing. By stimulating CCK-1 receptors (CCK-1Rs), sulphated CCK-8 elicits dopamine release in the substantia nigra and striatum. In the mesolimbic pathway, CCK release is triggered by dopamine and terminates reward responses via CCK-2Rs. Importantly, activation of hippocampal and nigral CCK-2Rs is neuroprotective by evoking AMPK activation, expression of mitochondrial fusion modulators and autophagy. Other benefits include vagus nerve/CCK-1R-mediated expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, intestinal protection and suppression of inflammation. We also discuss caveats and the therapeutic combination of CCK with other peptide hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Reich
- The ALBORADA Drug Discovery Institute, University of Cambridge, Island Research Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK; Faculty of Health and Medicine, Biomedical & Life Sciences Division, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK.
| | - Christian Hölscher
- Second associated Hospital, Neurology Department, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China; Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science, Neurodegeneration research group, Xinzhen, Henan province, China
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12
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Asao K, Sonoda K, Kawaguchi SI, Kawazoe Y. 3-Amino-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrothieno[2,3-b]quinoline-2-carbonitrile: A fluorescent molecule that induces differentiation in PC12 cells. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 101:117637. [PMID: 38368633 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Neural differentiation is triggered by the activation of multiple signaling pathways initiated by various neurotrophic factors. An elucidation of these mechanisms is anticipated to facilitate the prevention of diseases and the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Alternative small-molecule inducers for neuroscience studies are required instead of protein-based reagents for more efficient and convenient experiments. We demonstrated that small molecules of thieno[2,3-b]pyridine derivatives that induce neural differentiation, compounds 3a and 9a in particular, exhibited significant neuritogenic activity in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells. Moreover, 3a displayed pronounced fluorescence and a discernible Stokes shift. Furthermore, the outcome of the experiment conducted on the NGF-insensitive clones of rat PC12 cells, and the results of the intercellular uptake analyses suggested that the 3a-mediated activation of neural differentiation occurred independently of the TrkA receptor. Therefore, 3a portrays potential applicability both as a small molecule reagent to replace novel neurotrophic factors and as a potent fluorescent reagent for various techniques, including bioimaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Asao
- Center for Education and Research in Agricultural Innovation, Faculty of Agriculture, Saga University, 152-1 Shonan-cho Karatsu, Saga 847-0021, Japan
| | - Kento Sonoda
- Center for Education and Research in Agricultural Innovation, Faculty of Agriculture, Saga University, 152-1 Shonan-cho Karatsu, Saga 847-0021, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichi Kawaguchi
- Center for Education and Research in Agricultural Innovation, Faculty of Agriculture, Saga University, 152-1 Shonan-cho Karatsu, Saga 847-0021, Japan.
| | - Yoshinori Kawazoe
- Center for Education and Research in Agricultural Innovation, Faculty of Agriculture, Saga University, 152-1 Shonan-cho Karatsu, Saga 847-0021, Japan.
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13
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Zhou JZ, Chen H, Xu WL, Fu Z, Zhou S, Zhu WJ, Zhang ZH. Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation Inhibited Central Nerve Growth Factor/Tropomyosin Receptor Kinase A/Phospholipase C-Gamma Signaling Pathway in Functional Dyspepsia Model Rats With Gastric Hypersensitivity. Neuromodulation 2024; 27:273-283. [PMID: 36801128 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Functional dyspepsia (FD), which has a complicated pathophysiologic process, is a common functional gastrointestinal disease. Gastric hypersensitivity is the key pathophysiological factor in patients with FD with chronic visceral pain. Auricular vagal nerve stimulation (AVNS) has the therapeutic effect of reducing gastric hypersensitivity by regulating the activity of the vagus nerve. However, the potential molecular mechanism is still unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effects of AVNS on the brain-gut axis through the central nerve growth factor (NGF)/ tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA)/phospholipase C-gamma (PLC-γ) signaling pathway in FD model rats with gastric hypersensitivity. MATERIALS AND METHODS We established the FD model rats with gastric hypersensitivity by means of colon administration of trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid on ten-day-old rat pups, whereas the control rats were given normal saline. AVNS, sham AVNS, K252a (an inhibitor of TrkA, intraperitoneally), and K252a + AVNS were performed on eight-week-old model rats for five consecutive days. The therapeutic effect of AVNS on gastric hypersensitivity was determined by the measurement of abdominal withdrawal reflex response to gastric distention. NGF in gastric fundus and NGF, TrkA, PLC-γ, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) in the nucleus tractus solitaries (NTS) were detected separately by polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunofluorescence tests. RESULTS It was found that a high level of NGF in gastric fundus and an upregulation of the NGF/TrkA/PLC-γ signaling pathway in NTS were manifested in model rats. Meanwhile, both AVNS treatment and the administration of K252a not only decreased NGF messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein expressions in gastric fundus but also reduced the mRNA expressions of NGF, TrkA, PLC-γ, and TRPV1 and inhibited the protein levels and hyperactive phosphorylation of TrkA/PLC-γ in NTS. In addition, the expressions of NGF and TrkA proteins in NTS were decreased significantly after the immunofluorescence assay. The K252a + AVNS treatment exerted a more sensitive effect on regulating the molecular expressions of the signal pathway than did the K252a treatment. CONCLUSION AVNS can regulate the brain-gut axis effectively through the central NGF/TrkA/PLC-γ signaling pathway in the NTS, which suggests a potential molecular mechanism of AVNS in ameliorating visceral hypersensitivity in FD model rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Zhu Zhou
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Huan Chen
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wan-Li Xu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhe Fu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuai Zhou
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei-Jian Zhu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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14
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Xie W, Gao Q, Artigas Ramirez MD, Zhang H, Liu Y, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of nerve growth factor (NGF), and its receptor TrkA and p75 in the scent glands of muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus). Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 269:110905. [PMID: 37769961 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2023.110905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
NGF, also known as nerve growth factor, is crucial for the survival and differentiation of the nervous system, in addition to being involved in a number of non-neuronal systems. The aim of this work was to investigate the immunolocalization and expression patterns of NGF, its receptor, tyrosine kinase receptor A (TrkA), and p75 in the scent glands of muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) throughout the breeding and non-breeding seasons. The scent gland mass showed considerable seasonal variations, with higher values during the breeding season and comparatively lower levels during the non-breeding season. While no immunostaining was observed in the interstitial cells, NGF, TrkA, and p75 were immunolocalized in the scent glandular cells and epithelial cells during both breeding and non-breeding seasons. NGF, TrkA, and p75 protein and mRNA expression levels were higher in the scent glands during breeding season compared to the non-breeding season. Circulating levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), and T in the scent gland were all significantly higher throughout the breeding season. The relative levels of the hormones in the plasma and the scent glands as well as NGF, TrkA, and p75 were positively associated with each other. Additionally, transcriptome analysis of the scent glands revealed that differentially expressed genes may be linked to steroid biosynthesis, the estrogen signaling pathway, and neurotransmitter transmembrane transporter function. These results suggest a potential role for NGF, TrkA, and p75 in controlling seasonal variations in the muskrats' scent gland functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Xie
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingjing Gao
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Maria Daniela Artigas Ramirez
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuning Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China.
| | - Qiang Weng
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, China.
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15
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Stabile AM, Pistilli A, Moretti E, Bartolini D, Ruggirello M, Rende M, Castellini C, Mattioli S, Ponchia R, Tripodi SA, Collodel G. A Possible Role for Nerve Growth Factor and Its Receptors in Human Sperm Pathology. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3345. [PMID: 38137566 PMCID: PMC10742157 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) signalling affects spermatogenesis and mature sperm traits. In this paper, we aimed to evaluate the distribution and the role of NGF and its receptors (p75NTR and TrKA) on the reproductive apparatus (testis and epididymis) and sperm of fertile men (F) and men with different pathologies, namely varicocele (V) and urogenital infections (UGIs). We collected semen samples from 21 individuals (31-40 years old) subdivided as follows: V (n = 7), UGIs (n = 7), and F (n = 7). We submitted the semen samples to bacteriological analysis, leucocyte identification, and analysis of sperm parameters (concentration, motility, morphology, and viability). We determined the seminal plasma levels of NGF, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs), and the gene and protein expression of NGF receptors on sperm. We also used immunofluorescence to examine NGF receptors on ejaculated sperm, testis, and epididymis. As expected, fertile men showed better sperm parameters as well as lower levels of NGF, F2-IsoPs, and IL-1β compared with men with infertility. Notably, in normal sperm, p75NTR and TrKA were localised throughout the entire tail. TrKA was also found in the post-acrosomal sheath. This localisation appeared different in patients with infertility: in particular, there was a strong p75NTR signal in the midpiece and the cytoplasmic residue or coiled tails of altered ejaculated sperm. In line with these findings, NGF receptors were intensely expressed in the epididymis and interstitial tissue of the testis. These data suggest the distinctive involvement of NGF and its receptors in the physiology of sperm from fertile men and men with infertility, indicating a possible role for new targeted treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Stabile
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic Anatomy, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (A.M.S.); (A.P.); (M.R.); (M.R.)
| | - Alessandra Pistilli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic Anatomy, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (A.M.S.); (A.P.); (M.R.); (M.R.)
| | - Elena Moretti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Desirée Bartolini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Mariangela Ruggirello
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic Anatomy, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (A.M.S.); (A.P.); (M.R.); (M.R.)
| | - Mario Rende
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic Anatomy, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (A.M.S.); (A.P.); (M.R.); (M.R.)
| | - Cesare Castellini
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, 06100 Perugia, Italy; (C.C.); (S.M.)
| | - Simona Mattioli
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, 06100 Perugia, Italy; (C.C.); (S.M.)
| | - Rosetta Ponchia
- Unit of Medically Assisted Reproduction, Siena University Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Sergio Antonio Tripodi
- Department of Pathology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Giulia Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
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16
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Lin L, Zheng S, Lai J, Ye D, Huang Q, Wu Z, Chen X, Wang S. Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Protect Neurological Function After Traumatic Brain Injury by Suppressing Microglial Transformation to the Proinflammatory Phenotype and Activating Exosomal NGF/TrkA Signaling. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:5592-5606. [PMID: 37329381 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03419-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The transformation of microglia to a pro-inflammatory phenotype at the site of traumatic brain injury (TBI) drives the progression of secondary neurodegeneration and irreversible neurological impairment. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have been shown to suppress this phenotype transformation, thereby reducing neuroinflammation following TBI, but the molecular mechanisms are unknown. We found that Omega-3 PUFA suppressed the expression of disintegrin metalloproteinase (ADAM17), the enzyme required to convert tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) to the soluble form, thereby inhibiting the TNF-α/NF-κB pathway both in vitro and in a mouse model of TBI. Omega-3 PUFA also prevented the reactive transformation of microglia and promoted the secretion of microglial exosomes containing nerve growth factor (NGF), activating the neuroprotective NGF/TrkA pathway both in culture and TBI model mice. Moreover, Omega-3 PUFA suppressed the pro-apoptotic NGF/P75NTR pathway at the TBI site and reduced apoptotic neuronal death, brain edema, and disruption of the blood-brain barrier. Finally, Omega-3 PUFA preserved sensory and motor function as assessed by two broad-spectrum test batteries. The beneficial effects of Omega-3 PUFA were blocked by an ADAM17 promotor and by a NGF inhibitor, confirming the pathogenic function of ADAM17 and the central neuroprotective role of NGF. Collectively, these findings provide a strong experimental basis for Omega-3 PUFA as a potential clinical treatment for TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fuzong Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shaorui Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Putian University, Putian, 351100, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jinqing Lai
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Dan Ye
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, 350025, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qiaomei Huang
- Department of Anaesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian, China
| | - Zhe Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Xiangrong Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Shousen Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, 900th Hospital, Fuzhou, 350025, Fujian Province, China.
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17
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Almeida LM, Oliveira Â, Oliveira JMA, Pinho BR. Stress response mechanisms in protein misfolding diseases: Profiling a cellular model of Huntington's disease. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 745:109711. [PMID: 37541563 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Stress response pathways like the integrated stress response (ISR), the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) and the heat shock response (HSR) have emerged as part of the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington's disease (HD) - a currently incurable disease caused by the production of mutant huntingtin (mut-Htt). Previous data from HD patients suggest that ISR is activated while UPRmt and HSR are impaired in HD. The study of these stress response pathways as potential therapeutic targets in HD requires cellular models that mimic the activation status found in HD patients of such pathways. PC12 cells with inducible expression of the N-terminal fragment of mut-Htt are among the most used cell lines to model HD, however the activation of stress responses remains unclear in this model. The goal of this study is to characterize the activation of ISR, UPRmt and HSR in this HD cell model and evaluate if it mimics the activation status found in HD patients. We show that PC12 HD cell model presents reduced levels of Hsp90 and mitochondrial chaperones, suggesting an impaired activation or function of HSR and UPRmt. This HD model also presents increased levels of phosphorylated eIF2α, the master regulator of the ISR, but overall similar levels of ATF4 and decreased levels of CHOP - transcription factors downstream to eIF2α - in comparison to control, suggesting an initial activation of ISR. These results show that this model mimics the ISR activation and the impaired UPRmt and HSR found in HD patients. This work suggests that the PC12 N-terminal HD model is suitable for studying the role of stress response pathways in the pathophysiology of HD and for exploratory studies investigating the therapeutic potential of drugs targeting stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana M Almeida
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Mitochondria and Neurobiology Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Lab, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ângela Oliveira
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Mitochondria and Neurobiology Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Lab, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge M A Oliveira
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Mitochondria and Neurobiology Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Lab, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Brígida R Pinho
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Mitochondria and Neurobiology Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Lab, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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18
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Hey G, Willman M, Patel A, Goutnik M, Willman J, Lucke-Wold B. Stem Cell Scaffolds for the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury-A Review. BIOMECHANICS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 3:322-342. [PMID: 37664542 PMCID: PMC10469078 DOI: 10.3390/biomechanics3030028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a profoundly debilitating yet common central nervous system condition resulting in significant morbidity and mortality rates. Major causes of SCI encompass traumatic incidences such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, and sports injuries. Present treatment strategies for SCI aim to improve and enhance neurologic functionality. The ability for neural stem cells (NSCs) to differentiate into diverse neural and glial cell precursors has stimulated the investigation of stem cell scaffolds as potential therapeutics for SCI. Various scaffolding modalities including composite materials, natural polymers, synthetic polymers, and hydrogels have been explored. However, most trials remain largely in the preclinical stage, emphasizing the need to further develop and refine these treatment strategies before clinical implementation. In this review, we delve into the physiological processes that underpin NSC differentiation, including substrates and signaling pathways required for axonal regrowth post-injury, and provide an overview of current and emerging stem cell scaffolding platforms for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Hey
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Matthew Willman
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Aashay Patel
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Michael Goutnik
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Jonathan Willman
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Brandon Lucke-Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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19
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Chang YC, Lo YC, Chang HS, Lin HC, Chiu CC, Chen YF. An efficient cellular image-based platform for high-content screening of neuroprotective agents against chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. Neurotoxicology 2023; 96:118-128. [PMID: 37086979 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a major dose-limiting side effect, with no approved therapy for prevention or treatment. Here, we aimed to establish a high-content image platform based on the neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglia (DRG)-derived neuron cells for the discovery of neuroprotective agents against paclitaxel-induced CIPN. ND7/23 cells, an immortalized hybrid DRG cell line, were maturely differentiated by induction with nerve growth factor and upregulation of intracellular cAMP levels. High-content image analyses of the neurofilament-stained neurite network showed that paclitaxel disrupted the neurite outgrowth of well-differentiated ND7/23 DRG neuron cells, recapitulating characteristic effects of paclitaxel on primary cultured DRG neurons. This process coincided with the upregulated activity of store-operated Ca2+ entry, similar to those found in rodent models of paclitaxel-induced CIPN. The previously identified neuroprotective agents, minoxidil and 8-Br-cyclic adenosine monophosphate ribose (8-Br-cADPR), attenuated the reduction in total neurite outgrowth in paclitaxel-damaged ND7/23 cells. Additionally, the total neurite outgrowth of well-differentiated ND7/23 cells was concentration-dependently reduced by the neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents, oxaliplatin and bortezomib, but not the less neurotoxic 5-fluorouracil. We demonstrated that high-content analyses of neurite morphology in well-differentiated DRG neuron-derived cells provide an effective, reproducible, and high-throughput strategy for developing therapeutics against CIPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Chen Chang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ching Lo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Hsun-Shuo Chang
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan; Drug Development and Value Creation Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ching Lin
- Institute of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chih Chiu
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Yih-Fung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan; Drug Development and Value Creation Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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20
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Kendall A, Ekman S, Skiöldebrand E. Nerve growth factor receptors in equine synovial membranes vary with osteoarthritic disease severity. J Orthop Res 2023; 41:316-324. [PMID: 35578994 PMCID: PMC10084167 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophin that has been implicated in pain signaling, apoptosis, inflammation and proliferation. The resultant effects depend on interaction with two different receptors; tyrosine kinase A (TrkA) and p75NTR . NGF increases in synovial fluid from osteoarthritic joints, and monoclonal antibody therapy is trialed to treat osteoarthritis (OA)-related pain. Investigation of the complex and somewhat contradictory signaling pathways of NGF is conducted in neural research, but has not followed through to orthopaedic studies. The objectives of this study were to compare the expression of NGF receptors and the downstream regulator BAX in synovial membranes from joints in various stages of OA. The horse was used as a model. Synovial membranes were harvested from five healthy horses postmortem and from clinical cases with spontaneous OA undergoing arthroscopic surgery for lameness. Four horses with synovitis without gross cartilage changes, four horses with synovitis and cartilage damage, and four horses with synovitis and intracarpal fractures were included. Samples were investigated by immunohistochemistry and results showed that nuclear staining of TrkA, p75NTR and BAX increases in OA-associated synovitis. TrkA expression increased in early disease stages whereas increases in p75NTR were most prominent in later disease stages with cartilage damage and fibrosis. Clinical significance: Suppression of NGF may result in varied effects depending on different stages of the osteoarthritic disease process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kendall
- Division of Pathology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stina Ekman
- Division of Pathology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eva Skiöldebrand
- Division of Pathology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Mu JD, Ma LX, Zhang Z, Qian X, Zhang QY, Ma LH, Sun TY. The factors affecting neurogenesis after stroke and the role of acupuncture. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1082625. [PMID: 36741282 PMCID: PMC9895425 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1082625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke induces a state of neuroplasticity in the central nervous system, which can lead to neurogenesis phenomena such as axonal growth and synapse formation, thus affecting stroke outcomes. The brain has a limited ability to repair ischemic damage and requires a favorable microenvironment. Acupuncture is considered a feasible and effective neural regulation strategy to improve functional recovery following stroke via the benign modulation of neuroplasticity. Therefore, we summarized the current research progress on the key factors and signaling pathways affecting neurogenesis, and we also briefly reviewed the research progress of acupuncture to improve functional recovery after stroke by promoting neurogenesis. This study aims to provide new therapeutic perspectives and strategies for the recovery of motor function after stroke based on neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Dan Mu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Liang-Xiao Ma
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China,The Key Unit of State Administration of Traditional Chines Medicine, Evaluation of Characteristic Acupuncture Therapy, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Liang-Xiao Ma ✉
| | - Zhou Zhang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Qian
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qin-Yong Zhang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ling-Hui Ma
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tian-Yi Sun
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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22
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The Impact of Software Used and the Type of Target Protein on Molecular Docking Accuracy. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27249041. [PMID: 36558174 PMCID: PMC9788237 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27249041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The modern development of computer technology and different in silico methods have had an increasing impact on the discovery and development of new drugs. Different molecular docking techniques most widely used in silico methods in drug discovery. Currently, the time and financial costs for the initial hit identification can be significantly reduced due to the ability to perform high-throughput virtual screening of large compound libraries in a short time. However, the selection of potential hit compounds still remains more of a random process, because there is still no consensus on what the binding energy and ligand efficiency (LE) of a potentially active compound should be. In the best cases, only 20-30% of compounds identified by molecular docking are active in biological tests. In this work, we evaluated the impact of the docking software used as well as the type of the target protein on the molecular docking results and their accuracy using an example of the three most popular programs and five target proteins related to neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, we attempted to determine the "reliable range" of the binding energy and LE that would allow selecting compounds with biological activity in the desired concentration range.
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23
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Fang CN, Tan HQ, Song AB, Jiang N, Liu QR, Song T. NGF/TrkA promotes the vitality, migration and adhesion of bone marrow stromal cells in hypoxia by regulating the Nrf2 pathway. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:2017-2026. [PMID: 35579787 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-00974-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) transplantation is a treatment strategy for ischemic stroke (IS) with great potential. However, the vitality, migration and adhesion of BMSCs are greatly impaired due to the harsh environment of the ischemic area, which affects the therapeutic effects. Herein, we aimed to investigate the roles of nerve growth factor (NGF) in regulating cell behaviors of BMSCs in IS. METHODS The mRNA and protein expressions were assessed using qRT-PCR and western blot, respectively. To simulate ischemic-like conditions in vitro, Brain microvascular (bEnd.3) cells were exposed to oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD). Cell viability and cell proliferation were evaluated by MTT assay and BrdU assay, respectively. Transwell migration and cell adhesion assays were carried out to determine cell migration and adhesion of BMSCs, respectively, coupled with flow cytometry to evaluate cell apoptosis of bEnd.3 cells. Finally, angiogenesis assay was performed to assess the angiogenesis ability of bEnd.3 cells. RESULTS NGF overexpression resulted in increased cell vitality, adhesion and migration of BMSCs, while NGF knockdown presented the opposite effects. We subsequently discovered that TrkA was a receptor for NGF, and TrkA knockdown significantly inhibited the cell viability, migration and adhesion of BMSCs. Besides, Nrf2 was confirmed as the downstream target of NGF/TrkA to promote the viability, adhesion and migration of BMSC cells. Finally, NGF-silenced BMSCs could not effectively restore the OGD-induced brain microvascular cell damage. CONCLUSIONS NGF/TrkA promoted the viability, migration and adhesion of BMSCs in IS via activating Nrf2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Ni Fang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (the first-affiliated Hospital of Hunan normal University), No.89, Guhan Road, Furong District, 410000, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Qun Tan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (the first-affiliated Hospital of Hunan normal University), No.89, Guhan Road, Furong District, 410000, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Ao-Bo Song
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (the first-affiliated Hospital of Hunan normal University), No.89, Guhan Road, Furong District, 410000, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Ni Jiang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (the first-affiliated Hospital of Hunan normal University), No.89, Guhan Road, Furong District, 410000, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Qian-Rong Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (the first-affiliated Hospital of Hunan normal University), No.89, Guhan Road, Furong District, 410000, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China
| | - Tao Song
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (the first-affiliated Hospital of Hunan normal University), No.89, Guhan Road, Furong District, 410000, Changsha, Hunan Province, P.R. China.
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24
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Nicoletti VG, Pajer K, Calcagno D, Pajenda G, Nógrádi A. The Role of Metals in the Neuroregenerative Action of BDNF, GDNF, NGF and Other Neurotrophic Factors. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12081015. [PMID: 35892326 PMCID: PMC9330237 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature neurotrophic factors and their propeptides play key roles ranging from the regulation of neuronal growth and differentiation to prominent participation in neuronal survival and recovery after injury. Their signaling pathways sculpture neuronal circuits during brain development and regulate adaptive neuroplasticity. In addition, neurotrophic factors provide trophic support for damaged neurons, giving them a greater capacity to survive and maintain their potential to regenerate their axons. Therefore, the modulation of these factors can be a valuable target for treating or preventing neurologic disorders and age-dependent cognitive decline. Neuroregenerative medicine can take great advantage by the deepening of our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying the properties of neurotrophic factors. It is indeed an intriguing topic that a significant interplay between neurotrophic factors and various metals can modulate the outcome of neuronal recovery. This review is particularly focused on the roles of GDNF, BDNF and NGF in motoneuron survival and recovery from injuries and evaluates the therapeutic potential of various neurotrophic factors in neuronal regeneration. The key role of metal homeostasis/dyshomeostasis and metal interaction with neurotrophic factors on neuronal pathophysiology is also highlighted as a novel mechanism and potential target for neuronal recovery. The progress in mechanistic studies in the field of neurotrophic factor-mediated neuroprotection and neural regeneration, aiming at a complete understanding of integrated pathways, offers possibilities for the development of novel neuroregenerative therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Giuseppe Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (V.G.N.); (D.C.)
| | - Krisztián Pajer
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Damiano Calcagno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), Section of Medical Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (V.G.N.); (D.C.)
| | - Gholam Pajenda
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, Research Centre for Traumatology of the Austrian Workers, 1200 Vienna, Austria;
- Department for Trauma Surgery, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Antal Nógrádi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-6-234-2855
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25
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Zheng Q, Dong X, Green DP, Dong X. Peripheral mechanisms of chronic pain. MEDICAL REVIEW 2022; 2:251-270. [PMID: 36067122 PMCID: PMC9381002 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Acutely, pain serves to protect us from potentially harmful stimuli, however damage to the somatosensory system can cause maladaptive changes in neurons leading to chronic pain. Although acute pain is fairly well controlled, chronic pain remains difficult to treat. Chronic pain is primarily a neuropathic condition, but studies examining the mechanisms underlying chronic pain are now looking beyond afferent nerve lesions and exploring new receptor targets, immune cells, and the role of the autonomic nervous system in contributing chronic pain conditions. The studies outlined in this review reveal how chronic pain is not only confined to alterations in the nervous system and presents findings on new treatment targets and for this debilitating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xintong Dong
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Dustin P. Green
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Xinzhong Dong
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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26
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Diagnosis and Drug Prediction of Parkinson's Disease Based on Immune-Related Genes. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1809-1819. [PMID: 35731466 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02043-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Immune mechanisms play an important role in the development of PD. The purpose of this study was to identify potential differentially expressed immune-related genes (IRGs), signaling pathways, and drugs in PD, which may provide new diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for PD. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and IRGs were respectively obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset and the ImmPort database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to further identify hub IRGs. Core IRGs were obtained by intersection of DEGs and hub genes in the module of WGCNA, followed by construction of diagnostic models and regulation network establishment of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)-miRNAs-diagnostic IRGs. Analysis of functional enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and identification of related drugs of DEGs was performed. LILRB3 and CSF3R were identified as potential diagnostic markers for PD. Two regulatory pairs were identified based on LILRB3 and CSF3R, including XIST-hsa-miR-214-3p/hsa-miR-761-LILRB3 and XIST-hsa-miR-485-5p/hsa-miR-654-5p-CSF3R. LEP and IL1A were drug targets of Olanzapine. MMP9 and HSP90AB1 were drug targets of Bevacizumab. In addition, LEP and MMP9 were respectively drug targets of Lovastatin and Celecoxib. Herpes simplex infection (involved TNFRSF1A) and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction (involved CSF3R, LEP, and IL1A) were the most remarkably enriched signaling pathways of DEGs. Identified IRGs and related signaling pathways may play critical roles in the development of PD. Additionally, LILRB3 and CSF3R can be considered as potential immune-related diagnostic markers for PD. LEP, IL1A, MMP9, and HSP90AB1 may be regarded as immune-related therapeutic targets for PD.
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27
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Mitra S, Munni YA, Dash R, Sultana A, Moon IS. Unveiling the effect of Withania somnifera on neuronal cytoarchitecture and synaptogenesis: A combined in vitro and network pharmacology approach. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2524-2541. [PMID: 35443091 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Withania somnifera (WS), is known for its remarkable contribution in herbal medicine and Ayurveda, which is therapeutically applied to improve memory and anxiety in patients. However, the pharmacological details of this plant on memory boosting yet remained undefined. This study provides mechanistic insights on the effect of ethanol solution extract of the whole plant of WS (WSEE) on neuritogenesis by combining in vitro and in silico network pharmacology approaches. WSEE promoted significant neuronal growth through early differentiation, axodendritic arborization, and synaptogenesis on primary hippocampal neurons. The network pharmacological study confirmed that the neuritogenic activity is potentially mediated by modulating the neurotrophin signaling pathway, where NRTK1 (TrkA) was revealed as the primary target of WS secondary metabolites. This neurotrophic activity of WSEE was significantly stifled by the presence of TrkA inhibitor, which further confirms the TrkA-dependent activity of WSEE. In addition, a molecular docking study suggested steroidal lactones present in the WS might act as nerve growth factor (NGF)-mimetics, activating TrkA by binding to the NGF-binding domain. As a whole, the findings of the study suggest a significant role of WSEE on neuritogenesis and its potential to function as a therapeutic agent and in drug designing for the prevention and treatment of memory-related neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarmistha Mitra
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeasmin Akter Munni
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Raju Dash
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Armin Sultana
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Il Soo Moon
- Department of Anatomy, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
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28
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Therapeutic Potential of Exosomes Derived from Adipose Tissue-Sourced Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Neural and Retinal Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094487. [PMID: 35562878 PMCID: PMC9105552 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic agents that are able to prevent or attenuate inflammation and ischemia-induced injury of neural and retinal cells could be used for the treatment of neural and retinal diseases. Exosomes derived from adipose tissue-sourced mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSC-Exos) are extracellular vesicles that contain neurotrophins, immunoregulatory and angio-modulatory factors secreted by their parental cells. AT-MSC-Exos are enriched with bioactive molecules (microRNAs (miRNAs), enzymes, cytokines, chemokines, immunoregulatory, trophic, and growth factors), that alleviate inflammation and promote the survival of injured cells in neural and retinal tissues. Due to the nano-sized dimension and bilayer lipid envelope, AT-MSC-Exos easily bypass blood–brain and blood–retinal barriers and deliver their cargo directly into the target cells. Accordingly, a large number of experimental studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of AT-MSC-Exos in the treatment of neural and retinal diseases. By delivering neurotrophins, AT-MSC-Exos prevent apoptosis of injured neurons and retinal cells and promote neuritogenesis. AT-MSC-Exos alleviate inflammation in the injured brain, spinal cord, and retinas by delivering immunoregulatory factors in immune cells, suppressing their inflammatory properties. AT-MSC-Exos may act as biological mediators that deliver pro-angiogenic miRNAs in endothelial cells, enabling re-vascularization of ischemic neural and retinal tissues. Herewith, we summarized current knowledge about molecular mechanisms which were responsible for the beneficial effects of AT-MSC-Exos in the treatment of neural and retinal diseases, emphasizing their therapeutic potential in neurology and ophthalmology.
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29
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Zhang S, Zhao J, Quan Z, Li H, Qing H. Mitochondria and Other Organelles in Neural Development and Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:853911. [PMID: 35450015 PMCID: PMC9016280 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.853911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The contribution of organelles to neural development has received increasing attention. Studies have shown that organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), lysosomes, and endosomes play important roles in neurogenesis. Specifically, metabolic switching, reactive oxygen species production, mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, and the interaction between mitochondria and the ER all have roles in neurogenesis. Lysosomes and endosomes can regulate neurite growth and extension. Moreover, metabolic reprogramming represents a novel strategy for generating functional neurons. Accordingly, the exploration and application of mechanisms underlying metabolic reprogramming will be beneficial for neural conversion and regenerative medicine. There is adequate evidence implicating the dysfunction of cellular organelles—especially mitochondria—in neurodegenerative disorders, and that improvement of mitochondrial function may reverse the progression of these diseases through the reinforcement of adult neurogenesis. Therefore, these organelles have potential as therapeutic targets for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss the function of these organelles, especially mitochondria, in neural development, focusing on their potential as therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Zhao
- Aerospace Medical Center, Aerospace Center Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Quan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hui Li,
| | - Hong Qing
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Hong Qing,
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30
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Chen HK, Li YZ, Ge AN, Zhu YB, Wu SJ, Bai X, Bai HH, Liu YN. Cbl-b modulated TrkA ubiquitination and function in the dorsal root ganglion of mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 921:174876. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.174876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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31
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Reed NR, Reed WR, Syrett M, Richey ML, Frolov A, Little JW. Somatosensory behavioral alterations in a NGF-induced persistent low back pain model. Behav Brain Res 2022; 418:113617. [PMID: 34606776 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a major global burden in part due to the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms being poorly understood. A LBP rat model involving two injections of nerve growth factor (NGF, an endogenous pain-related neurotrophin) into trunk musculature was recently developed. Additional behavioral work in this NGF-LBP rat model is required to better characterize local and remote somatosensory alterations related to NGF-induced peripheral and central sensitization. This work characterizes the time-dependent development of hypersensitivity to trunk and hindpaw cutaneous mechanical stimulation and deep muscle mechanical hyperalgesia in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 6/group). Behavioral assays were performed at baseline (Day 0, D0), D2, D5 (pre- and 4 h post-2nd NGF or control injection), D7, D10, and D14 in NGF and control groups. Trunk and hindpaw cutaneous mechanical hypersensitivity were tested using von Frey filaments. Deep trunk mechanical hyperalgesia was determined using a small animal algometer. NGF rats demonstrated increased cutaneous sensitivity to ipsilateral trunk mechanical stimuli at D7, D10, and D14. NGF rats also demonstrated ipsilateral deep mechanical hyperalgesia on D2, D5 + 4 h, D7, D10, and D14. Cutaneous hypersensitivity was delayed compared to deep hyperalgesia in NGF rats. No additional sensory changes were noted. Together, these results indicate that male mechanical somatosensory changes develop primarily locally in the ipsilateral trunk following unilateral NGF injections. These findings contrast with a previous report in female rats using this NGF-LBP model showing more widespread (bilateral) hyperalgesia and remote mechanical hypersensitivity. Future studies will examine potential sex-related pain behavioral differences in the NGF model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas R Reed
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402 South Grand Blvd. Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - William R Reed
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1720 2nd Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Michael Syrett
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402 South Grand Blvd. Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Madison L Richey
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402 South Grand Blvd. Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Andrey Frolov
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402 South Grand Blvd. Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Joshua W Little
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402 South Grand Blvd. Saint Louis, MO, 63104, USA.
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Wang T, Meunier FA. Live-Cell Superresolution Imaging of Retrograde Axonal Trafficking Using Pulse-Chase Labeling in Cultured Hippocampal Neurons. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2473:101-128. [PMID: 35819762 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2209-4_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The entanglement of long axons found in cultured dissociated hippocampal neurons restricts the analysis of the machinery underlying directed axonal trafficking. Further, hippocampal neurons exhibit "en passant" presynapses that may confound the analysis of long-range retrograde axonal transport. To solve these issues, we and others have developed microfluid-based methods to specifically follow the fates of the retrograde axonal cargoes following pulse-chase labeling by super-resolution live-cell imaging, and automatically tracking their directed transport and analyzing their kinetical properties. These methods have allowed us to visualize the trafficking of fluorescently tagged signaling endosomes and autophagosomes derived from axonal terminals and resolve their localizations and movements with high spatial and temporal accuracy. In this chapter, we describe how to use a commercially available microfluidic device to enable the labeling and tracking of retrograde axonal carriers, including (1) how to culture and transfect rat hippocampal neurons in the microfluidic device; (2) how to perform pulse-chase to label specific populations of retrograde axonal carriers; and (3) how to conduct the automatic tracking and data analysis using open-source software.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wang
- Center for Brain Science, School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghaitech University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Frédéric A Meunier
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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33
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Oo WM, Hunter DJ. Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) Inhibitors and Related Agents for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Comprehensive Review. BioDrugs 2021; 35:611-641. [PMID: 34807432 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-021-00504-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal pain such as osteoarthritis (OA) and low back pain (LBP) are very common and contribute to enormous burden and societal costs, despite dramatic therapeutic advances over recent decades. Novel approaches and targeted therapies are required to satisfy the urgent unmet medical need of musculoskeletal pain relief in both conditions. Nerve growth factor (NGF) inhibitors have utilized novel mechanisms different from conventional drugs, which have a variety of gastrointestinal, cardiac, or renal adverse effects. Several phase 2/3 studies have been accomplished for these drugs, such as tanezumab, fasinumab, and tyrosine receptor kinase A (TrkA) inhibitors. We searched the literature using the PubMed database and clinical trials using ClinicalTrials.gov to identify original papers, meta-analyses as well as ongoing clinical trials assessing the efficacy and safety profile of these drugs. In this narrative review, we briefly overview the disease burden of musculoskeletal pain, the role of NGF signaling and its receptors in the genesis of pain, and the mechanisms of action of inhibitors of NGF signaling and downstream pathways, and then discuss the efficacy and safety of each investigational drug in OA and LBP. Finally, we briefly review two serious adverse effects of NGF inhibitors, namely rapidly progressive OA and sympathetic system effects, and conclude with possible barriers and potential research directions to overcome these.
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Affiliation(s)
- Win Min Oo
- Rheumatology Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, and Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mandalay General Hospital, University of Medicine, Mandalay, Mandalay, Myanmar
| | - David J Hunter
- Rheumatology Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, and Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Song Y, Du Z, Chen X, Zhang W, Zhang G, Li H, Chang L, Wu Y. Astrocytic N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptors Protect the Hippocampal Neurons Against Amyloid-β142-Induced Synaptotoxicity by Regulating Nerve Growth Factor. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 85:167-178. [PMID: 34776441 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soluble oligomeric amyloid-β (Aβ)-induced synaptic dysfunction is an early event in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Mounting evidence has suggested N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) play an important role in Aβ-induced synaptotoxicity. Originally NMDARs were believed to be expressed exclusively in neurons; however, recent two decades studies have demonstrated functional NMDARs present on astrocytes. Neuronal NMDARs are modulators of neurodegeneration, while our previous initial study found that astrocytic NMDARs mediated synaptoprotection and identified nerve growth factor (NGF) secreted by astrocytes, as a likely mediator, but how astrocytic NMDARs protect neurons against Aβ-induced synaptotoxicity through regulating NGF remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To achieve further insight into the mechanism of astrocytic NMDARs oppose Aβ-induced synaptotoxicity through regulating NGF. METHODS With the primary hippocampal neuronal and astrocytic co-cultures, astrocytes were pretreated with agonist or antagonist of NMDARs before Aβ142 oligomers application to neuron-astrocyte co-cultures. Western blot, RT-PCR, etc., were used for the related proteins evaluation. RESULTS Activation of astrocytic NMDARs can significantly mitigate Aβ142-induced loss of PSD-95 and synaptophysin through increasing NGF release. Blockade of astrocytic NMDARs inhibited Aβ-induced compensatory protective NGF increase in protein and mRNA levels through modulating NF-κB of astrocytes. Astrocytic NMDARs activation can enhance Aβ-induced Furin increase, and blockade of astrocytic NMDARs inhibited Aβ-induced immunofluorescent intensity elevation of vesicle trafficking protein VAMP3 and NGF double-staining. CONCLUSION Astrocytic NMDARs oppose Aβ-induced synaptotoxicity through modulating the synthesis, maturation, and secretion of NGF in astrocytes. This new information may contribute to the quest for specific targeted strategy of intervention to delay the onset of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhi Song
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zunshu Du
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyue Chen
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wanning Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guitao Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lirong Chang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Basic MedicalSciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Regeneration and Repair, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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35
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Filev AD, Kostyuk SV, Umriukhin PE, Pisarev VM. Oxidized Cell-Free DNA Rapidly Skews the Transcriptional Profile of Brain Cells toward Boosting Neurogenesis and Neuroplasticity. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:1583-1591. [PMID: 34698136 PMCID: PMC8929019 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43030112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is liberated and accumulated in neural tissue due to cell damage. The oxidative and nitrosative stress in the brain that accompanies various pathological conditions has been shown to increase the oxidation of cellular and cell-free DNA. Whether the high concentration of non-oxidized and oxidized cfDNA may affect the transcriptome response of brain cells has not been studied. In the current work, we studied whether cfDNA fragments affect several key pathways, including neurogenesis, at the level of gene expression in brain cells. In the study, primary rat cerebellum cell cultures were used to assess the effects of oxidized and non-oxidized cfDNA on the expression of 91 genes in brain cells. We found that only oxidized cfDNA, not non-oxidized cfDNA, significantly altered the transcription in brain cells in 3 h. The pattern of change included all 10 upregulated genes (S100A8, S100A9, S100b, TrkB, Ngf, Pink1, Aqp4, Nmdar, Kcnk2, Mapk1) belonging to genes associated with neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. The expression of inflammatory and apoptosis genes, which oppose neurogenesis, decreased. The results show that the oxidized form of cfDNA positively regulates early gene expression of neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. At the same time, the question of whether chronic elevation of cfDNA concentration alters brain cells remains unexplored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton D. Filev
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics (RCMG), 115478 Moscow, Russia; (S.V.K.); (P.E.U.); (V.M.P.)
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Intensive Care Medicine and Rehabilitology, V.A. Negovsky Research Institute of General Reanimatology, 107031 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence:
| | - Svetlana V. Kostyuk
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics (RCMG), 115478 Moscow, Russia; (S.V.K.); (P.E.U.); (V.M.P.)
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Intensive Care Medicine and Rehabilitology, V.A. Negovsky Research Institute of General Reanimatology, 107031 Moscow, Russia
| | - Pavel E. Umriukhin
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics (RCMG), 115478 Moscow, Russia; (S.V.K.); (P.E.U.); (V.M.P.)
- Department of Normal Physiology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir M. Pisarev
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics (RCMG), 115478 Moscow, Russia; (S.V.K.); (P.E.U.); (V.M.P.)
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Intensive Care Medicine and Rehabilitology, V.A. Negovsky Research Institute of General Reanimatology, 107031 Moscow, Russia
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36
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Sainath R, Gallo G. Bioenergetic Requirements and Spatiotemporal Profile of Nerve Growth Factor Induced PI3K-Akt Signaling Along Sensory Axons. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:726331. [PMID: 34630035 PMCID: PMC8497901 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.726331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) promotes the elaboration of axonal filopodia and branches through PI3K-Akt. NGF activates the TrkA receptor resulting in an initial transient high amplitude burst of PI3K-Akt signaling followed by a maintained lower steady state, hereafter referred to as initiation and steady state phases. Akt initially undergoes phosphorylation at T308 followed by phosphorylation at S473, resulting in maximal kinase activation. We report that during the initiation phase the localization of PI3K signaling, reported by visualizing sites of PIP3 formation, and Akt signaling, reflected by Akt phosphorylation at T308, correlates with the positioning of axonal mitochondria. Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation but not glycolysis is required for Akt phosphorylation at T308. In contrast, the phosphorylation of Akt at S473 is not spatially associated with mitochondria and is dependent on both oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis. Under NGF steady state conditions, maintenance of phosphorylation at T308 shows dual dependence on oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis. Phosphorylation at S473 is more dependent on glycolysis but also requires oxidative phosphorylation for maintenance over longer time periods. The data indicate that NGF induced PI3K-Akt signaling along axons is preferentially initiated at sites containing mitochondria, in a manner dependent on oxidative phosphorylation. Steady state signaling is discussed in the context of combined contributions by mitochondria and the possibility of glycolysis occurring in association with endocytosed signalosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv Sainath
- Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Gianluca Gallo
- Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Neural Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Wen J, Liu L, Li J, He Y. A review of nardosinone for pharmacological activities. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 908:174343. [PMID: 34265296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nardostachys jatamansi is a natural medicinal plant that is widely used in Asia for the treatment of various neurological and cardiac diseases, and nardosinone is the main active ingredient of N. jatamansi, which has the potential to treat a variety of diseases. Herein, we summarize the reported chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and pharmacological potential of nardosinone, and point out areas for further research. We obtained studies that were related to the chemical structure and pharmacological activities of nardosinone from several databases. Previous studies have shown that nardosinone has anti-inflammatory effects, anti-hypertrophic effect in cardiomyocytes, enhances activity of the nerve growth factor and promotes neural stem cells to proliferate and differentiate. However, the molecular mechanism of how nardosinone promotes proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells, and its role in resisting cardiomyocyte hypertrophy remains unclear and needs to be further studied. Overall, nardosinone has the potential to treat bacterial infections, periodontitis, cardiac diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. However, the gaps found in the literature is the lack of more comprehensive information regarding the pharmacokinetics and toxicology of nardosinone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Linqiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Junjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Yang He
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China.
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38
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D'Arcy Y, Mantyh P, Yaksh T, Donevan S, Hall J, Sadrarhami M, Viktrup L. Treating osteoarthritis pain: mechanisms of action of acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids, and nerve growth factor antibodies. Postgrad Med 2021; 133:879-894. [PMID: 34252357 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2021.1949199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common difficult-to-treat condition where the goal, in the absence of disease-modifying treatments, is to alleviate symptoms such as pain and loss of function. Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and opioids are common pharmacologic treatments for OA. Antibodies directed against nerve growth factor (NGF-Abs) are a new class of agents under clinical investigation for the treatment of OA. This narrative review describes (and uses schematics to visualize) nociceptive signaling, chronification of pain, and the mechanisms of action (MOAs) of these different analgesics in the context of OA-related pain pathophysiology. Further, the varying levels of efficacy and safety of these agents observed in patients with OA is examined, based on an overview of published clinical data and/or treatment guidelines (when available), in the context of differences in their MOAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne D'Arcy
- Independent Nurse Practitioner, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, USA
| | - Patrick Mantyh
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Tony Yaksh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pharmacology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Jerry Hall
- Lilly Biomedicines, US/Global Medical Affairs, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Lars Viktrup
- Lilly Research Laboratories, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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LianXia Formula Granule Attenuates Cardiac Sympathetic Remodeling in Rats with Myocardial Infarction via the NGF/TrKA/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5536406. [PMID: 34221073 PMCID: PMC8213506 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5536406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Sympathetic remodeling may cause severe arrhythmia after myocardial infarction (MI). Thus, targeting this process may be an effective strategy for clinical prevention of arrhythmias. LianXia Formula Granule (LXFG) can effectively improve the symptoms of patients with arrhythmia after MI, and modern pharmacological studies have shown that Coptidis Rhizoma and Rhizoma Pinelliae Preparata, the components of LXFG, have antiarrhythmia effects. Here, we investigated whether LXFG can mitigate sympathetic remodeling and suppress arrhythmia and then elucidated its underlying mechanism of action in rats after MI. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats that had undergone a myocardial infarction model were randomly divided into 6 groups, namely, sham, model, metoprolol, and LXFG groups, with high, medium, and low dosages. We exposed the animals to 30 days of treatment and then evaluated incidence of arrhythmia and arrhythmia scores in vivo using programmed electrical stimulation. Moreover, we determined plasma catecholamines contents via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and detected expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) at infarcted border zones via western blot, real-time PCR, and immunohistochemical analyses to assess sympathetic remodeling. Finally, we measured key molecules involved in the NGF/TrKA/PI3K/AKT pathways via western blot and real-time PCR. Compared with the model group, treatment with high dose of LXFG suppressed arrhythmia incidence and arrhythmia scores. In addition, all the LXFG groups significantly decreased protein and mRNA levels of TH, improved the average optical density of TH-positive nerve fibers, and reduced the levels of plasma catecholamines relative to the model group. Meanwhile, expression analysis revealed that key molecules in the NGF/TrKA/PI3K/AKT pathways were downregulated in the LXFG group when compared with model group. Overall, these findings indicate that LXFG suppresses arrhythmia and attenuates sympathetic remodeling in rats after MI. The mechanism is probably regulated by suppression of the NGF/TrKA/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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40
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Liu BW, Zhang J, Hong YS, Li NB, Liu Y, Zhang M, Wu WY, Zheng H, Lampert A, Zhang XW. NGF-Induced Nav1.7 Upregulation Contributes to Chronic Post-surgical Pain by Activating SGK1-Dependent Nedd4-2 Phosphorylation. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:964-982. [PMID: 33063281 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02156-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
At present, chronic post-surgical pain (CPSP) is difficult to prevent and cure clinically because of our lack of understanding of its mechanisms. Surgical injury induces the upregulation of voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.7 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, suggesting that Nav1.7 is involved in the development of CPSP. However, the mechanism leading to persistent dysregulation of Nav1.7 is largely unknown. Given that nerve growth factor (NGF) induces a long-term increase in the neuronal hyperexcitability after injury, we hypothesized that NGF might cause the long-term dysregulation of Nav1.7. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether Nav1.7 regulation by NGF is involved in CPSP and thus contributes to the specific mechanisms involved in the development of CPSP. Using conditional nociceptor-specific Nav1.7 knockout mice, we confirmed the involvement of Nav1.7 in NGF-induced pain and identified its role in the maintenance of pain behavior during long-term observations (up to 14 days). Using western blot analyses and immunostaining, we showed that NGF could trigger the upregulation of Nav1.7 expression and thus support the development of CPSP in rats. Using pharmacological approaches, we showed that the increase of Nav1.7 might be partly regulated by an NGF/TrkA-SGK1-Nedd4-2-mediated pathway. Furthermore, reversing the upregulation of Nav1.7 in DRG could alleviate spinal sensitization. Our results suggest that the maintained upregulation of Nav1.7 triggered by NGF contributes to the development of CPSP. Attenuating the dysregulation of Nav1.7 in peripheral nociceptors may be a strategy to prevent the transition from acute post-surgical pain to CPSP.
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MESH Headings
- Analgesics/pharmacology
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Benzamides/pharmacology
- Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/metabolism
- Ganglia, Spinal/drug effects
- Ganglia, Spinal/metabolism
- Hydrazines/pharmacology
- Immediate-Early Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Immediate-Early Proteins/metabolism
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice, Knockout
- Models, Biological
- NAV1.7 Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel/genetics
- NAV1.7 Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel/metabolism
- Nedd4 Ubiquitin Protein Ligases/metabolism
- Nerve Growth Factor/pharmacology
- Pain, Postoperative/genetics
- Pain, Postoperative/pathology
- Phosphorylation/drug effects
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases/metabolism
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, trkA/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptor, trkA/metabolism
- Spinal Cord/pathology
- Ubiquitination/drug effects
- Up-Regulation/drug effects
- Vesicular Glutamate Transport Protein 2/metabolism
- Mice
- Rats
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Wen Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yi-Shun Hong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ning-Bo Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Mi Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wen-Yao Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hua Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Angelika Lampert
- Institute of Physiology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Xian-Wei Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Zha K, Yang Y, Tian G, Sun Z, Yang Z, Li X, Sui X, Liu S, Zhao J, Guo Q. Nerve growth factor (NGF) and NGF receptors in mesenchymal stem/stromal cells: Impact on potential therapies. Stem Cells Transl Med 2021; 10:1008-1020. [PMID: 33586908 PMCID: PMC8235142 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are promising for the treatment of degenerative diseases and traumatic injuries. However, MSC engraftment is not always successful and requires a strong comprehension of the cytokines and their receptors that mediate the biological behaviors of MSCs. The effects of nerve growth factor (NGF) and its two receptors, TrkA and p75NTR, on neural cells are well studied. Increasing evidence shows that NGF, TrkA, and p75NTR are also involved in various aspects of MSC function, including their survival, growth, differentiation, and angiogenesis. The regulatory effect of NGF on MSCs is thought to be achieved mainly through its binding to TrkA. p75NTR, another receptor of NGF, is regarded as a novel surface marker of MSCs. This review provides an overview of advances in understanding the roles of NGF and its receptors in MSCs as well as the effects of MSC‐derived NGF on other cell types, which will provide new insight for the optimization of MSC‐based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangkang Zha
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries, PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Othopaedics, Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangzhao Tian
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries, PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqiang Sun
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries, PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries, PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Li
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Innovative Orthopaedic Biomaterial and Drug Translational Research Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Sui
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries, PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyun Liu
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries, PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinmin Zhao
- Department of Othopaedics, Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, People's Republic of China
| | - Quanyi Guo
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing Key Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedics, Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal Trauma and War Injuries, PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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42
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Li L, Gruner K, Tourtellotte WG. Retrograde nerve growth factor signaling abnormalities in familial dysautonomia. J Clin Invest 2021; 130:2478-2487. [PMID: 32281946 DOI: 10.1172/jci130401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is the most prevalent form of hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy (HSAN). In FD, a germline mutation in the Elp1 gene leads to Elp1 protein decrease that causes sympathetic neuron death and sympathetic nervous system dysfunction (dysautonomia). Elp1 is best known as a scaffolding protein within the nuclear hetero-hexameric transcriptional Elongator protein complex, but how it functions in sympathetic neuron survival is very poorly understood. Here, we identified a cytoplasmic function for Elp1 in sympathetic neurons that was essential for retrograde nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling and neuron target tissue innervation and survival. Elp1 was found to bind to internalized TrkA receptors in an NGF-dependent manner, where it was essential for maintaining TrkA receptor phosphorylation (activation) by regulating PTPN6 (Shp1) phosphatase activity within the signaling complex. In the absence of Elp1, Shp1 was hyperactivated, leading to premature TrkA receptor dephosphorylation, which resulted in retrograde signaling failure and neuron death. Inhibiting Shp1 phosphatase activity in the absence of Elp1 rescued NGF-dependent retrograde signaling, and in an animal model of FD it rescued abnormal sympathetic target tissue innervation. These results suggest that regulation of retrograde NGF signaling in sympathetic neurons by Elp1 may explain sympathetic neuron loss and physiologic dysautonomia in patients with FD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
| | | | - Warren G Tourtellotte
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.,Department of Neurology.,Department of Neurosurgery, and.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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43
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Photosensitive tyrosine analogues unravel site-dependent phosphorylation in TrkA initiated MAPK/ERK signaling. Commun Biol 2020; 3:706. [PMID: 33239753 PMCID: PMC7689462 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-01396-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tyrosine kinase A (TrkA) is a membrane receptor which, upon ligand binding, activates several pathways including MAPK/ERK signaling, implicated in a spectrum of human pathologies; thus, TrkA is an emerging therapeutic target in treatment of neuronal diseases and cancer. However, mechanistic insights into TrKA signaling are lacking due to lack of site-dependent phosphorylation control. Here we engineer two light-sensitive tyrosine analogues, namely p-azido-L-phenylalanine (AzF) and the caged-tyrosine (ONB), through amber codon suppression to optically manipulate the phosphorylation state of individual intracellular tyrosines in TrkA. We identify TrkA-AzF and ONB mutants, which can activate the ERK pathway in the absence of NGF ligand binding through light control. Our results not only reveal how TrkA site-dependent phosphorylation controls the defined signaling process, but also extend the genetic code expansion technology to enable regulation of receptor-type kinase activation by optical control at the precision of a single phosphorylation site. It paves the way for comprehensive analysis of kinase-associated pathways as well as screening of compounds intervening in a site-directed phosphorylation pathway for targeted therapy. Using genetic code expansion, Zhao, Shi et al. generate light-sensitive tyrosine analogues to obtain insights into the activation of the NGF receptor, TrkA. They identify light-sensitive and NGF-insensitive phosphorylation sites, validating the approach and providing insights into TrkA signaling
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44
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Suzuki H, Araki K, Matsui T, Tanaka Y, Uno K, Tomifuji M, Yamashita T, Satoh Y, Kobayashi Y, Shiotani A. TrkA inhibitor promotes motor functional regeneration of recurrent laryngeal nerve by suppression of sensory nerve regeneration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16892. [PMID: 33037246 PMCID: PMC7547101 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72288-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury, in which hoarseness and dysphagia arise as a result of impaired vocal fold movement, is a serious complication. Misdirected regeneration is an issue for functional regeneration. In this study, we demonstrated the effect of TrkA inhibitors, which blocks the NGF-TrkA pathway that acts on the sensory/automatic nerves thus preventing misdirected regeneration among motor and sensory nerves, and thereby promoting the regeneration of motor neurons to achieve functional recovery. RLN axotomy rat models were used in this study, in which cut ends of the nerve were bridged with polyglycolic acid-collagen tube with and without TrkA inhibitor (TrkAi) infiltration. Our study revealed significant improvement in motor nerve fiber regeneration and function, in assessment of vocal fold movement, myelinated nerve regeneration, compound muscle action potential, and prevention of laryngeal muscle atrophy. Retrograde labeling demonstrated fewer labeled neurons in the vagus ganglion, which confirmed reduced misdirected regeneration among motor and sensory fibers, and a change in distribution of the labeled neurons in the nucleus ambiguus. Our study demonstrated that TrkAi have a strong potential for clinical application in the treatment of RLN injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Suzuki
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan.,Department of Otolaryngology, Self-Defense Forces Central Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Araki
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan.
| | - Toshiyasu Matsui
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan.,Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Japan
| | - Yuya Tanaka
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Kosuke Uno
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Masayuki Tomifuji
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Taku Yamashita
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan.,Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Yasushi Satoh
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Yasushi Kobayashi
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Akihiro Shiotani
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
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45
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Foltz L, Palacios-Moreno J, Mayfield M, Kinch S, Dillon J, Syrenne J, Levy T, Grimes M. PAG1 directs SRC-family kinase intracellular localization to mediate receptor tyrosine kinase-induced differentiation. Mol Biol Cell 2020; 31:2269-2282. [PMID: 32726167 PMCID: PMC7550700 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e20-02-0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
All receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) activate similar downstream signaling pathways through a common set of effectors, yet it is not fully understood how different receptors elicit distinct cellular responses to cause cell proliferation, differentiation, or other cell fates. We tested the hypothesis that regulation of SRC family kinase (SFK) signaling by the scaffold protein, PAG1, influences cell fate decisions following RTK activation. We generated a neuroblastoma cell line expressing a PAG1 fragment that lacks the membrane-spanning domain (PAG1TM-) and localized to the cytoplasm. PAG1TM- cells exhibited higher amounts of active SFKs and increased growth rate. PAG1TM- cells were unresponsive to TRKA and RET signaling, two RTKs that induce neuronal differentiation, but retained responses to EGFR and KIT. Under differentiation conditions, PAG1TM- cells continued to proliferate and did not extend neurites or increase β-III tubulin expression. FYN and LYN were sequestered in multivesicular bodies (MVBs), and dramatically more FYN and LYN were in the lumen of MVBs in PAG1TM- cells. In particular, activated FYN was sequestered in PAG1TM- cells, suggesting that disruption of FYN localization led to the observed defects in differentiation. The results demonstrate that PAG1 directs SFK intracellular localization to control activity and to mediate signaling by RTKs that induce neuronal differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Foltz
- Division of Biological Sciences, Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, and Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812
| | | | - Makenzie Mayfield
- Division of Biological Sciences, Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, and Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812
| | - Shelby Kinch
- Division of Biological Sciences, Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, and Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812
| | - Jordan Dillon
- Division of Biological Sciences, Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, and Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812
| | - Jed Syrenne
- Division of Biological Sciences, Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, and Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812
| | - Tyler Levy
- Cell Signaling Technology, Danvers, MA 01923
| | - Mark Grimes
- Division of Biological Sciences, Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, and Center for Structural and Functional Neuroscience, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812
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Li B, Jing L, Jia L, Qian T, Jianyi C, Zhongsheng H, Xiaohong Z, Guowei C. Acupuncture reduces pain in rats with osteoarthritis by inhibiting MCP2/CCR2 signaling pathway. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 245:1722-1731. [PMID: 32878462 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220952342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is an emerging alternative therapy that has been beneficial for the pain of osteoarthritis (OA). However, the underlying mechanism of protective effect remains unclear. MCP1/CCR2 axis can be stimulated in various periods of OA, and we hypothesize that acupuncture may treat OA by regulating the MCP1/CCR2 axis. This study aimed to explore the effect of acupuncture at points ST35 and ST36 on the effects of hyperalgesia and cartilage in OA rats including the expression of chemokines, nerve growth factor (NGF), and inflammatory-related proteins. OA was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by anterior cruciate ligament transection at the right knee. The first acupuncture intervention was performed on the seventh day after surgery and once a day for seven weeks. The knee-pain-related behaviors, histology, and related protein were examined in this study. We have found that electroacupuncture at ST35 and ST36 can significantly alleviate the hyperalgesia and cartilage degeneration as well as reducing nerve sprouting in OA knee joint. Moreover, acupuncture treatment may inhibit the MCP1/CCR2 axis as well as down-regulate inflaming factor and NGF in cartilage and synovial tissue. The data presented here indicate that acupuncture exerts a protective effect against hyperalgesia and cartilage degeneration, and the mechanism might involve in chemokines and NGF pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bocun Li
- Department of Acupuncture, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Li Jing
- Department of Acupuncture, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Li Jia
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine/Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Tan Qian
- Department of Acupuncture, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Chen Jianyi
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine/Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Huang Zhongsheng
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine/Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Zhou Xiaohong
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine/Hubei Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of Preventive Treatment by Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Cai Guowei
- Department of Acupuncture, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
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47
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Mai L, Huang F, Zhu X, He H, Fan W. Role of Nerve Growth Factor in Orofacial Pain. J Pain Res 2020; 13:1875-1882. [PMID: 32801845 PMCID: PMC7399448 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s250030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Some chronic pain conditions in the orofacial region are common and the mechanisms underlying orofacial pain are unresolved. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a member of a family of neurotrophins and regulates the growth, maintenance and development of neurons. Increasing evidence suggests that NGF plays a crucial role in the generation of pain and hyperalgesia in different pain states. This review investigates the role of NGF in orofacial pain and their underlying cellular mechanisms, which may provide essential guidance to drug-discovery programmes. A systemic literature search was conducted in Pubmed focusing on NGF and orofacial pain. Articles were reviewed, and those discussing in vitro studies, animal evidence, clinical course, and possible mechanisms were summarized. We found a hyperalgesic effect of NGF in peripheral sensitization in orofacial pain models. We also summarize the current knowledge regarding NGF-dependent pain mechanism, which is initiated by retrograde transport of the ligand-receptor complex, ensuing transcriptional regulation of many important nociceptor genes involved in nociceptive processing. Phase III trials suggest that anti-NGF drug is endorsed with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects with good tolerance in a variety of pain conditions, including pain associated with osteoarthritis and chronic lower back pain. Based on the data reviewed herein, NGF is believed to be an important hyperalgesic mediator in orofacial pain. The identification of underlying mechanisms and pathways of orofacial pain opens new frontiers for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijia Mai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Zhu
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongwen He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenguo Fan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
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48
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Wang Q, Zhao Y, Dong X, Li C, Zhou L, Zou C, Li X, Zhou N, Liu J, Sun Y, Wang J. The Occurrence of Valvular Atrial Fibrillation: Involvement of NGF/TrKA Signaling Pathway. J INVEST SURG 2020; 34:1379-1386. [PMID: 32781864 DOI: 10.1080/08941939.2020.1798570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nerve growth factor (NGF) and tropomyosin kinase receptors A (TrKA) exert a crucial effect on the regulation of autonomic nervous system which contributes to the progress of atrial fibrillation (AF). Valvular heart disease (VHD) patients are more easily to induce the AF. We investigated whether NGF/TrKA could impact the occurrence of AF in VHD patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Atrial tissues were resected from 30 VHD patients with chronic AF (n = 15, AF >6 months) or sinus rhythm (SR, n = 15). The expression of NGF, TrKA, protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), beta-isoforms of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3β), Serine473 phosphorylation of Akt (p-Ser473 Akt), Serine9 phosphorylation of GSK-3β (p-Ser9 GSK3β) in right atrial tissues and peripheral blood lymphocyte were quantified by Western blot. The localization of those genes expression was measured by immunohistochemistry. Double sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to observe the trace changes of NGF-β in peripheral plasma. RESULTS Our results revealed that the NGF expression was markedly elevated in the tissue of right atrial appendage and peripheral blood lymphocytes from AF patients compared with the SR patients. But, the expression of TrKA, GSK3β, p-Akt and p-GSK3β were decreased. There was no difference about the expression of Akt from the AF patients and the SR patients. The NGF-β level in peripheral blood plasma of patients with AF and SR was not statistical difference. CONCLUSION Thus, we thought that NGF/TrKA signaling pathway may be involved in the AF in the patients with VHD, inactivation of GSK3β could increase the incidence of AF, but not relevant to phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianli Wang
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Cardiovascular Surgery Intensive Care Unit, the Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, PR China
| | - Yong Zhao
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Xin Dong
- Department of Cardiology, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Cong Li
- Intensive Care Unit, Shouguang People's Hospital, Shouguang, PR China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Chengwei Zou
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Xiaodong Li
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Nannan Zhou
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Junni Liu
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Sun
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Jianchun Wang
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China.,Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, PR China
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49
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Ding XW, Li R, Geetha T, Tao YX, Babu JR. Nerve growth factor in metabolic complications and Alzheimer's disease: Physiology and therapeutic potential. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165858. [PMID: 32531260 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As the population ages, obesity and metabolic complications as well as neurological disorders are becoming more prevalent, with huge economic burdens on both societies and families. New therapeutics are urgently needed. Nerve growth factor (NGF), first discovered in 1950s, is a neurotrophic factor involved in regulating cell proliferation, growth, survival, and apoptosis in both central and peripheral nervous systems. NGF and its precursor, proNGF, bind to TrkA and p75 receptors and initiate protein phosphorylation cascades, resulting in changes of cellular functions, and are associated with obesity, diabetes and its complications, and Alzheimer's disease. In this article, we summarize changes in NGF levels in metabolic and neuronal disorders, the signal transduction initiated by NGF and proNGF, the physiological and pathophysiological relevance, and therapeutic potential in treating chronic metabolic diseases and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen Ding
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Rongzi Li
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Thangiah Geetha
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Jeganathan Ramesh Babu
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
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50
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Unveiling functional motions based on point mutations in biased signaling systems: A normal mode study on nerve growth factor bound to TrkA. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231542. [PMID: 32497034 PMCID: PMC7272051 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Many receptors elicit signal transduction by activating multiple intracellular pathways. This transduction can be triggered by a non-specific ligand, which simultaneously activates all the signaling pathways of the receptors. However, the binding of one biased ligand preferentially trigger one pathway over another, in a process called biased signaling. The identification the functional motions related to each of these distinct pathways has a direct impact on the development of new effective and specific drugs. We show here how to detect specific functional motions by considering the case of the NGF/TrkA-Ig2 complex. NGF-mediated TrkA receptor activation is dependent on specific structural motions that trigger the neuronal growth, development, and survival of neurons in nervous system. The R221W mutation in the ngf gene impairs nociceptive signaling. We discuss how the large-scale structural effects of this mutation lead to the suppression of collective motions necessary to induce TrkA activation of nociceptive signaling. Our results suggest that subtle changes in the NGF interaction network due to the point mutation are sufficient to inhibit the motions of TrkA receptors putatively linked to nociception. The methodological approach presented in this article, based jointly on the normal mode analysis and the experimentally observed functional alterations due to point mutations provides an essential tool to reveal the structural changes and motions linked to the disease, which in turn could be necessary for a drug design study.
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