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Forsell P, Parrado Fernández C, Nilsson B, Sandin J, Nordvall G, Segerdahl M. Positive Allosteric Modulators of Trk Receptors for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:997. [PMID: 39204102 PMCID: PMC11357672 DOI: 10.3390/ph17080997] [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: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins are important regulators of neuronal and non-neuronal functions. As such, the neurotrophins and their receptors, the tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) family of receptor tyrosine kinases, has attracted intense research interest and their role in multiple diseases including Alzheimer's disease has been described. Attempts to administer neurotrophins to patients have been reported, but the clinical trials have so far have been hampered by side effects or a lack of clear efficacy. Thus, much of the focus during recent years has been on identifying small molecules acting as agonists or positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of Trk receptors. Two examples of successful discovery and development of PAMs are the TrkA-PAM E2511 and the pan-Trk PAM ACD856. E2511 has been reported to have disease-modifying effects in preclinical models, whereas ACD856 demonstrates both a symptomatic and a disease-modifying effect in preclinical models. Both molecules have reached the stage of clinical development and were reported to be safe and well tolerated in clinical phase 1 studies, albeit with different pharmacokinetic profiles. These two emerging small molecules are interesting examples of possible novel symptomatic and disease-modifying treatments that could complement the existing anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. This review aims to present the concept of positive allosteric modulators of the Trk receptors as a novel future treatment option for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative and cognitive disorders, and the current preclinical and clinical data supporting this new concept. Preclinical data indicate dual mechanisms, not only as cognitive enhancers, but also a tentative neurorestorative function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pontus Forsell
- AlzeCure Pharma AB, Hälsovägen 7, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (C.P.F.); (B.N.); (J.S.); (G.N.); (M.S.)
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels allé 23, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Cristina Parrado Fernández
- AlzeCure Pharma AB, Hälsovägen 7, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (C.P.F.); (B.N.); (J.S.); (G.N.); (M.S.)
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels allé 23, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Boel Nilsson
- AlzeCure Pharma AB, Hälsovägen 7, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (C.P.F.); (B.N.); (J.S.); (G.N.); (M.S.)
| | - Johan Sandin
- AlzeCure Pharma AB, Hälsovägen 7, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (C.P.F.); (B.N.); (J.S.); (G.N.); (M.S.)
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels allé 23, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Nordvall
- AlzeCure Pharma AB, Hälsovägen 7, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (C.P.F.); (B.N.); (J.S.); (G.N.); (M.S.)
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels allé 23, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Märta Segerdahl
- AlzeCure Pharma AB, Hälsovägen 7, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (C.P.F.); (B.N.); (J.S.); (G.N.); (M.S.)
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels allé 23, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
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Bou Ghanem GO, Wareham LK, Calkins DJ. Addressing neurodegeneration in glaucoma: Mechanisms, challenges, and treatments. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 100:101261. [PMID: 38527623 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101261] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. The disease causes vision loss due to neurodegeneration of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) projection to the brain through the optic nerve. Glaucoma is associated with sensitivity to intraocular pressure (IOP). Thus, mainstay treatments seek to manage IOP, though many patients continue to lose vision. To address neurodegeneration directly, numerous preclinical studies seek to develop protective or reparative therapies that act independently of IOP. These include growth factors, compounds targeting metabolism, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, and neuromodulators. Despite success in experimental models, many of these approaches fail to translate into clinical benefits. Several factors contribute to this challenge. Firstly, the anatomic structure of the optic nerve head differs between rodents, nonhuman primates, and humans. Additionally, animal models do not replicate the complex glaucoma pathophysiology in humans. Therefore, to enhance the success of translating these findings, we propose two approaches. First, thorough evaluation of experimental targets in multiple animal models, including nonhuman primates, should precede clinical trials. Second, we advocate for combination therapy, which involves using multiple agents simultaneously, especially in the early and potentially reversible stages of the disease. These strategies aim to increase the chances of successful neuroprotective treatment for glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazi O Bou Ghanem
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Lauren K Wareham
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - David J Calkins
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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3
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Wu J, Huang Y, Yu H, Li K, Zhang S, Qiao G, Liu X, Duan H, Huang Y, So KF, Yang Z, Li X, Wang L. Chitosan-based thermosensitive hydrogel with long-term release of murine nerve growth factor for neurotrophic keratopathy. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:680-686. [PMID: 37721301 PMCID: PMC10581555 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.380908] [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: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophic keratopathy is a persistent defect of the corneal epithelium, with or without stromal ulceration, due to corneal nerve deficiency caused by a variety of etiologies. The treatment options for neurotrophic keratopathy are limited. In this study, an ophthalmic solution was constructed from a chitosan-based thermosensitive hydrogel with long-term release of murine nerve growth factor (CTH-mNGF). Its effectiveness was evaluated in corneal denervation (CD) mice and patients with neurotrophic keratopathy. In the preclinical setting, CTH-mNGF was assessed in a murine corneal denervation model. CTH-mNGF was transparent, thermosensitive, and ensured sustained release of mNGF for over 20 hours on the ocular surface, maintaining the local mNGF concentration around 1300 pg/mL in vivo. Corneal denervation mice treated with CTH-mNGF for 10 days showed a significant increase in corneal nerve area and total corneal nerve length compared with non-treated and CTH treated mice. A subsequent clinical trial of CTH-mNGF was conducted in patients with stage 2 or 3 neurotrophic keratopathy. Patients received topical CTH-mNGF twice daily for 8 weeks. Fluorescein sodium images, Schirmer's test, intraocular pressure, Cochet-Bonnet corneal perception test, and best corrected visual acuity were evaluated. In total, six patients (total of seven eyes) diagnosed with neurotrophic keratopathy were enrolled. After 8 weeks of CTH-mNGF treatment, all participants showed a decreased area of corneal epithelial defect, as stained by fluorescence. Overall, six out of seven eyes had fluorescence staining scores < 5. Moreover, best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, Schirmer's test and Cochet-Bonnet corneal perception test results showed no significant improvement. An increase in corneal nerve density was observed by in vivo confocal microscopy after 8 weeks of CTH-mNGF treatment in three out of seven eyes. This study demonstrates that CTH-mNGF is transparent, thermosensitive, and has sustained-release properties. Its effectiveness in healing corneal epithelial defects in all eyes with neurotrophic keratopathy suggests CTH-mNGF has promising application prospects in the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy, being convenient and cost effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Third Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya, Hainan Province, China
| | - Yulei Huang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Hanrui Yu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Kaixiu Li
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | | | | | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongmei Duan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Third Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Department of Ophthalmology and State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhaoyang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- School of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, Beihang University, Beijing, China
- Beijing International Cooperation Bases for Science and Technology on Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Liqiang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Third Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- The PLA Medical College, Department of Nephrology, Chinese PLA Institute of Nephrology, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing, China
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Beykin G, Stell L, Halim MS, Nuñez M, Popova L, Nguyen BT, Groth SL, Dennis A, Li Z, Atkins M, Khavari T, Wang SY, Chang R, Fisher AC, Sepah YJ, Goldberg JL. Phase 1b Randomized Controlled Study of Short Course Topical Recombinant Human Nerve Growth Factor (rhNGF) for Neuroenhancement in Glaucoma: Safety, Tolerability, and Efficacy Measure Outcomes. Am J Ophthalmol 2022; 234:223-234. [PMID: 34780798 PMCID: PMC8821405 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE No approved therapies directly target retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) for neuroprotection or neuroenhancement in glaucoma. Recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF) has been shown to promote RGC survival and function in animal models of optic neuropathy. Here we evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of short-term, high-dose rhNGF eye drops versus placebo in a cohort of glaucoma patients. DESIGN This was a prospective, phase 1b, single-center, randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled, parallel-group study. METHODS This study was designed to assess safety and tolerability as well as short-term neuroenhancement of structure and function (clinicaltrials.gov NCT02855450). A total of 60 open-angle glaucoma patients were randomized 40:20 to receive either 180 μg/mL rhNGF or vehicle control eye drops in both eyes, 3 times daily for 8 weeks, with a 24-week post-treatment follow-up. One eye was officially selected as the study eye, although both eyes were studied and dosed. Primary endpoints were safety, as assessed by adverse events, and tolerability, as assessed by patient-reported outcomes. Secondary outcome measures included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), Humphrey visual field, electroretinograpy (ERG), and optical coherence tomography (OCT) of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness at baseline, after 8 weeks of treatment, and at 4 and 24 weeks after treatment (12 and 32 weeks total). RESULTS Of the 60 randomized patients, 23 were female (38%) and the average age was 66.1 years. Through week 32, there were no treatment-related serious adverse events, including no unexpectedly severe progression of optic neuropathy, no adverse events affecting ocular function or pressure, and no drug-related systemic toxicity. Topical high-dose rhNGF was tolerated well, with a low level of symptom burden mainly eliciting periocular ache (in 52% of treated group and 5% of placebo group) and only 3 patients (7.5%) discontinuing treatment because of discomfort, of whom 1 patient (2.5%) prematurely withdrew from the study. There were no statistically significant differences in global indices of Humphrey visual field and no meaningful differences in total, quadrant, or clock-hour mean RNFL thickness between the groups, although both of these function and structure measures showed nonsignificant trends toward significance in favor of rhNGF. Real-world participant data was used to generate an estimate of cohort size needed to power subsequent studies. CONCLUSIONS Use of rhNGF is safe and tolerable in a topical 180-μg/mL formulation. Although no statistically significant short-term neuroenhancement was detected in this trial, given the strong effects of NGF in preclinical models and the trends detected in this study, analysis for efficacy in a neuroprotection trial is warranted. NOTE: Publication of this article is sponsored by the American Ophthalmological Society.
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Fang Z, Zou JL. Recombinant COL6 α2 as a Self-Organization Factor That Triggers Orderly Nerve Regeneration Without Guidance Cues. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:816781. [PMID: 35002632 PMCID: PMC8732766 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.816781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Collagen VI (COL6) in the microenvironment was recently identified as an extracellular signal that bears the function of promoting orderly axon bundle formation. However, the large molecular weight of COL6 (≈2,000 kDa) limits its production and clinical application. It remains unclear whether the smaller subunit α chains of COL6 can exert axon bundling and ordering effects independently. Herein, based on a dorsal root ganglion (DRG) ex vivo model, the contributions of three main COL6 α chains on orderly nerve bundle formation were analyzed, and COL6 α2 showed the largest contribution weight. A recombinant COL6 α2 chain was produced and demonstrated to promote the formation of orderly axon bundles through the NCAM1-mediated pathway. The addition of COL6 α2 in conventional hydrogel triggered orderly nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve defect model. Immunogenicity assessment showed weaker immunogenicity of COL6 α2 compared to that of the COL6 complex. These findings suggest that recombinant COL6 α2 is a promising material for orderly nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Fang
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Long Zou
- Institute of Neuroscience and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Function and Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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6
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Kropf E, Fahnestock M. Effects of Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species on TrkA Expression and Signalling: Implications for proNGF in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081983. [PMID: 34440751 PMCID: PMC8392605 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) and its precursor form, proNGF, are critical for neuronal survival and cognitive function. In the brain, proNGF is the only detectable form of NGF. Dysregulation of proNGF in the brain is implicated in age-related memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AD is characterized by early and progressive degeneration of the basal forebrain, an area critical for learning, memory, and attention. Learning and memory deficits in AD are associated with loss of proNGF survival signalling and impaired retrograde transport of proNGF to the basal forebrain. ProNGF transport and signalling may be impaired by the increased reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) observed in the aged and AD brain. The current literature suggests that ROS/RNS nitrate proNGF and reduce the expression of the proNGF receptor tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA), disrupting its downstream survival signalling. ROS/RNS-induced reductions in TrkA expression reduce cell viability, as proNGF loses its neurotrophic function in the absence of TrkA and instead generates apoptotic signalling via the pan-neurotrophin receptor p75NTR. ROS/RNS also interfere with kinesin and dynein motor functions, causing transport deficits. ROS/RNS-induced deficits in microtubule motor function and TrkA expression and signalling may contribute to the vulnerability of the basal forebrain in AD. Antioxidant treatments may be beneficial in restoring proNGF signalling and axonal transport and reducing basal forebrain neurodegeneration and related deficits in cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Kropf
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada;
| | - Margaret Fahnestock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Gascon S, Jann J, Langlois-Blais C, Plourde M, Lavoie C, Faucheux N. Peptides Derived from Growth Factors to Treat Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116071. [PMID: 34199883 PMCID: PMC8200100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive neuron losses in memory-related brain structures. The classical features of AD are a dysregulation of the cholinergic system, the accumulation of amyloid plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles. Unfortunately, current treatments are unable to cure or even delay the progression of the disease. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies have emerged, such as the exogenous administration of neurotrophic factors (e.g., NGF and BDNF) that are deficient or dysregulated in AD. However, their low capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier and their exorbitant cost currently limit their use. To overcome these limitations, short peptides mimicking the binding receptor sites of these growth factors have been developed. Such peptides can target selective signaling pathways involved in neuron survival, differentiation, and/or maintenance. This review focuses on growth factors and their derived peptides as potential treatment for AD. It describes (1) the physiological functions of growth factors in the brain, their neuronal signaling pathways, and alteration in AD; (2) the strategies to develop peptides derived from growth factor and their capacity to mimic the role of native proteins; and (3) new advancements and potential in using these molecules as therapeutic treatments for AD, as well as their limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Gascon
- Laboratory of Cell-Biomaterial Biohybrid Systems, Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering, 2500 Boulevard Université, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (S.G.); (J.J.)
| | - Jessica Jann
- Laboratory of Cell-Biomaterial Biohybrid Systems, Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering, 2500 Boulevard Université, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (S.G.); (J.J.)
| | - Chloé Langlois-Blais
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
| | - Mélanie Plourde
- Centre de Recherche sur le Vieillissement, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux de l’Estrie–Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 1B1, Canada;
- Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada
| | - Christine Lavoie
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
- Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, 3001 12th Avenue, N., Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (N.F.); Tel.: +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 72732) (C.L.); +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 61343) (N.F.)
| | - Nathalie Faucheux
- Laboratory of Cell-Biomaterial Biohybrid Systems, Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering, 2500 Boulevard Université, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (S.G.); (J.J.)
- Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, 3001 12th Avenue, N., Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (N.F.); Tel.: +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 72732) (C.L.); +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 61343) (N.F.)
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Zhou LT, Zhang J, Tan L, Huang HZ, Zhou Y, Liu ZQ, Lu Y, Zhu LQ, Yao C, Liu D. Elevated Levels of miR-144-3p Induce Cholinergic Degeneration by Impairing the Maturation of NGF in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:667412. [PMID: 33898468 PMCID: PMC8063700 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.667412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholinergic degeneration is one of the key pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a condition that is characterized by synaptic disorders and memory impairments. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is secreted in brain regions that receive projections from the basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. The trophic effects of NGF rely on the appropriate maturation of NGF from its precursor, proNGF. The ratio of proNGF/NGF is known to be increased in patients with AD; however, the mechanisms that underlie this observation have yet to be elucidated. Here, we demonstrated that levels of miR-144-3p are increased in the hippocampi and the medial prefrontal cortex of an APP/PS1 mouse model of AD. These mice also exhibited cholinergic degeneration (including the loss of cholinergic fibers, the repression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity, the reduction of cholinergic neurons, and an increased number of dystrophic neurites) and synaptic/memory deficits. The elevated expression of miR-144-3p specifically targets the mRNA of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and reduces the expression of tPA, thus resulting in the abnormal maturation of NGF. The administration of miR-144-3p fully replicated the cholinergic degeneration and synaptic/memory deficits observed in the APP/PS1 mice. The injection of an antagomir of miR-144-3p into the hippocampi partially rescued cholinergic degeneration and synaptic/memory impairments by restoring the levels of tPA protein and by correcting the ratio of proNGF/NGF. Collectively, our research revealed potential mechanisms for the disturbance of NGF maturation and cholinergic degeneration in AD and identified a potential therapeutic target for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Ting Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Tan
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - He-Zhou Huang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Youming Lu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling-Qiang Zhu
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengye Yao
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, The Institute of Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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9
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Pentz R, Iulita MF, Ducatenzeiler A, Videla L, Benejam B, Carmona‐Iragui M, Blesa R, Lleó A, Fortea J, Cuello AC. Nerve growth factor (NGF) pathway biomarkers in Down syndrome prior to and after the onset of clinical Alzheimer's disease: A paired CSF and plasma study. Alzheimers Dement 2021; 17:605-617. [PMID: 33226181 PMCID: PMC8043977 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The discovery that nerve growth factor (NGF) metabolism is altered in Down syndrome (DS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains offered a framework for the identification of novel biomarkers signalling NGF deregulation in AD pathology. METHODS We examined levels of NGF pathway proteins (proNGF, neuroserpin, tissue plasminogen activator [tPA], and metalloproteases [MMP]) in matched cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/plasma samples from AD-symptomatic (DSAD) and AD-asymptomatic (aDS) individuals with DS, as well as controls (HC). RESULTS ProNGF and MMP-3 were elevated while tPA was decreased in plasma from individuals with DS. CSF from individuals with DS showed elevated proNGF, neuroserpin, MMP-3, and MMP-9. ProNGF and MMP-9 in CSF differentiated DSAD from aDS (area under the curve = 0.86, 0.87). NGF pathway markers associated with CSF amyloid beta and tau and differed by sex. DISCUSSION Brain NGF metabolism changes can be monitored in plasma and CSF, supporting relevance in AD pathology. These markers could assist staging, subtyping, or precision medicine for AD in DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan Pentz
- Department of Neurology and NeurosurgeryMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
| | - M. Florencia Iulita
- Department of Pharmacology and TherapeuticsMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
- Sant Pau Memory UnitDepartment of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauBiomedical Research Institute Sant PauUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
| | | | - Laura Videla
- Sant Pau Memory UnitDepartment of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauBiomedical Research Institute Sant PauUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
- Barcelona Down Medical CenterFundación Catalana Síndrome de DownBarcelonaSpain
| | - Bessy Benejam
- Sant Pau Memory UnitDepartment of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauBiomedical Research Institute Sant PauUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
- Barcelona Down Medical CenterFundación Catalana Síndrome de DownBarcelonaSpain
| | - María Carmona‐Iragui
- Sant Pau Memory UnitDepartment of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauBiomedical Research Institute Sant PauUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
- Barcelona Down Medical CenterFundación Catalana Síndrome de DownBarcelonaSpain
| | - Rafael Blesa
- Sant Pau Memory UnitDepartment of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauBiomedical Research Institute Sant PauUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
| | - Alberto Lleó
- Sant Pau Memory UnitDepartment of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauBiomedical Research Institute Sant PauUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
| | - Juan Fortea
- Sant Pau Memory UnitDepartment of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant PauBiomedical Research Institute Sant PauUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Center of Biomedical Investigation Network for Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED)MadridSpain
- Barcelona Down Medical CenterFundación Catalana Síndrome de DownBarcelonaSpain
| | - A. Claudio Cuello
- Department of Neurology and NeurosurgeryMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
- Department of Pharmacology and TherapeuticsMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell BiologyMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
- Department of PharmacologyOxford UniversityOxfordUK
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10
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Giuliani A, Lorenzini L, Baldassarro VA, Pannella M, Cescatti M, Fernandez M, Alastra G, Flagelli A, Villetti G, Imbimbo BP, Giardino L, Calzà L. Effects of Topical Application of CHF6467, a Mutated Form of Human Nerve Growth Factor, on Skin Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 375:317-331. [PMID: 32948647 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.120.000110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is the protein responsible for the development and maintenance of sensory skin innervation. Given the role of appropriate innervation in skin healing, NGF has been indicated as a possible prohealing treatment in pathologic conditions characterized by nerve-ending loss, such as chronic ulcers in diabetes; however, its use as a therapeutic agent is limited by its hyperalgesic effect. We tested the effect of topical application of the nonalgogenic NGF derivative hNGFP61S/R100E in two models of skin ulcer induced in dbdb diabetic mice, investigating healing time, skin histology, reinnervation, and angiogenesis using morphologic and molecular approaches. We showed that the topical administration of CHF6467, a recombinant human NGF in which an amino acid substitution (R100E) abolished the hyperalgesic effect usually associated with NGF, accelerated skin repair in experimental wounds (full-excision and pressure-ulcer) induced in diabetic mice (dbdb). CHF6467-induced acceleration of wound healing was accompanied by increased re-epithelization, reinnervation, and revascularization as assessed by histology, immunohistochemistry, and image analysis. Bioinformatic analysis of differentially expressed genes and signaling pathways in the wound tissues showed that protein kinase B-mammalian target of rapamycin was the most regulated pathway. In spite of the transdermal absorption leading to measurable, dose-dependent increases in CHF6467 plasma levels, no systemic thermal or local mechanical hyperalgesia was observed in treated mice. When tested in vitro in human cell lines, CHF6467 stimulated keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation and tube formation by endothelial cells. Collectively, these results support a possible use of CHF6467 as a prohealing agent in skin lesions in diabetes. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Topical application of CHF6467 accelerates reinnervation, neoangiogenesis, and wound healing in diabetic mice in both full-thickness skin-excision and pressure-ulcer models through the protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway and does not induce hyperalgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Giuliani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - L Lorenzini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - V A Baldassarro
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - M Pannella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - M Cescatti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - M Fernandez
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - G Alastra
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - A Flagelli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - G Villetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - B P Imbimbo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - L Giardino
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
| | - L Calzà
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Italy (A.G., L.L., M.F., L.G.); Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies University of Bologna, Italy (L.L., V.A.B., G.A., A.F, L.G., L.C.); Department of of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Italy (L.C.); Fondazione IRET, Ozzano Emilia, Italy (M.P., M.C.); Chiesi Farmaceutici, Parma, Italy (G.V., B.P.I.)
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11
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Cho HK, Kim W, Lee KY, Ahn JO, Choi JH, Hwang IK, Chung JY. Beta-nerve growth factor gene therapy alleviates pyridoxine-induced neuropathic damage by increasing doublecortin and tyrosine kinase A in the dorsal root ganglion. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:162-168. [PMID: 31535665 PMCID: PMC6862420 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.264472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Beta-nerve growth factor (β-NGF) is known to be a major leading cause of neuronal plasticity. To identify the possible action mechanisms of β-NGF gene therapy for sciatic nerve recovery, experimental dogs were randomly divided into control, pyridoxine, and pyridoxine + β-NGF groups. We observed chronological changes of morphology in the dorsal root ganglia in response to pyridoxine toxicity based on cresyl violet staining. The number of large neurons positive for cresyl violet was dramatically decreased after pyridoxine intoxication for 7 days in the dorsal root ganglia and the neuron number was gradually increased after pyridoxine withdrawal. In addition, we also investigated the effects of β-NGF gene therapy on neuronal plasticity in pyridoxine-induced neuropathic dogs. To accomplish this, tyrosine kinase receptor A (TrkA), βIII-tubulin and doublecortin (DCX) immunohistochemical staining was performed at 3 days after the last pyridoxine treatment. TrkA-immunoreactive neurons were dramatically decreased in the pyridoxine group compared to the control group, but strong TrkA immunoreactivity was observed in the small-sized dorsal root ganglia in this group. TrkA immunoreactivity in the dorsal root ganglia was similar between β-NGF and control groups. The numbers of βIII-tubulin- and DCX-immunoreactive cells decreased significantly in the pyridoxine group compared to the control group. However, the reduction of βIII-tubulin- and DCX-immunoreactive cells in the dorsal root ganglia in the β-NGF group was significantly ameliorated than that in the pyridoxine group. These results indicate that β-NGF gene therapy is a powerful treatment of pyridoxine-induced neuropathic damage by increasing the TrkA and DCX levels in the dorsal root ganglia. The experimental protocol was approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) of Seoul National University, South Korea (approval No. SNU-060623-1, SNU-091009-1) on June 23, 2006 and October 9, 2009, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Kee Cho
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine and Institute of Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, South Korea
| | - Woosuk Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kwon-Young Lee
- Department of Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, South Korea
| | - Jin-Ok Ahn
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine and Institute of Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, South Korea
| | - Jung Hoon Choi
- Department of Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, South Korea
| | - In Koo Hwang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin-Young Chung
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine and Institute of Veterinary Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, South Korea
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12
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Liu SY, Liu SZ, Li Y, Chen S. Mouse Nerve Growth Factor Facilitates the Growth of Interspinal Schwannoma Cells by Activating NGF Receptors. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2019; 62:626-634. [PMID: 31527385 PMCID: PMC6835149 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2019.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a member of the neurotrophic factor family and plays a vital role in the physiological processes of organisms, especially in the nervous system. Many recent studies have reported that NGF is also involved in the regulation of tumourigenesis by either promoting or suppressing tumor growth, which depends on the location and type of tumor. However, little is known regarding the effect of NGF on interspinal schwannoma (IS). In the present study, we aimed to explored whether mouse nerve growth factor (mNGF), which is widely used in the clinic, can influence the growth of interspinal schwannoma cells (ISCs) isolated from IS in vitro. Methods ISCs were isolated, cultured and identified by S-100 with immunofluorescence analysis. S-100-positive cells were divided into five groups, and separately cultured with various concentrations of mNGF (0 [phosphate buffered saline, PBS], 40, 80, 160, and 320 ng/mL) for 24 hours. Western blot and quantantive real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were applied to detect tyrosine kinase A (TrkA) receptor and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) in each group. Crystal violet staining was selected to assess the effect of mNGF (160 ng/mL) on ISCs growth.
Results ISCs growth was enhanced by mNGF in a dose-dependent manner. The result of crystal violet staining revealed that it was significantly strengthened the cells growth kinetics when cultured with 160 ng/mL mNGF compared to PBS group. Western blot and quantantive real time PCR discovered that TrkA receptor and mRNA expression were both up-regualated under the condition of mNGF, expecially in 160 ng/mL, while the exoression of p75NTR demonstrated no difference among groups.
Conclusion From these data, we conclude that exogenous mNGF can facilitate ISC growth by activating both TrkA receptor and p75NTR. In addition, patients who are suffering from IS should not be administered mNGF in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Yi Liu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Sheng Ze Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou Second Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shi Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou Second Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Fuzhou, China
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13
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Fleitas C, Piñol-Ripoll G, Marfull P, Rocandio D, Ferrer I, Rampon C, Egea J, Espinet C. proBDNF is modified by advanced glycation end products in Alzheimer's disease and causes neuronal apoptosis by inducing p75 neurotrophin receptor processing. Mol Brain 2018; 11:68. [PMID: 30428894 PMCID: PMC6237019 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-018-0411-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a complex pathology related to multiple causes including oxidative stress. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neutrotrophic factor essential for the survival and differentiation of neurons and is considered a key target in the pathophysiology of various neurodegenerative diseases, as for example AD. Contrarily to BDNF, the precursor form of BDNF (proBDNF) induces apoptosis through the specific interaction with p75 and its co-receptor, Sortilin. We used hippocampal tissue and cerebrospinal fluid from AD patients and controls. to study the localization and the levels of proBDNF, p75 and Sortilin as well as the post-traduccional modifications of proBDNF induced by Radical Oxygen Species, by immunofluorescence and Western blot. Differentiation and survival were assessed on differentiated mouse hippocampal neurons derived from postnatal neural stem cells from WT animals or from the transgenic AD animal model APP/PS1∆E9, based on mutations of familiar AD. In AD patients we observe a significative increase of proBDNF and Sortilin expression and a significative increase of the ratio proBDNF/BDNF in their cerebrospinal fluid compared to controls. In addition, the proBDNF of AD patients is modified by ROS-derived advanced glycation end products, which prevent the processing of the proBDNF to the mature BDNF, leading to an increase of pathogenicity and a decrease of trophic effects. The cerebrospinal fluid from AD patients, but not from controls, induces apoptosis in differentiated hippocampal neurons mainly by the action of AGE-modified proBDNF present in the cerebrospinal fluid of the patients. This effect is triggered by the activation and processing of p75 that stimulate the internalization of the intracellular domain (ICD) within the nucleus causing apoptosis. Induction of apoptosis and p75 ICD internalization by AD patients-derived proBDNF is further enhanced in neuron cultures from the AD model expressing the APP/PS1∆E9 transgene. Our results indicate the importance of proBDNF neurotoxic signaling in AD pathology essentially by three mechanisms: i) by an increase of proBDNF stability due to ROS-induced post-traductional modifications; ii) by the increase of expression of the p75 co-receptor, Sortilin and iii) by the increase of the basal levels of p75 processing found in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Fleitas
- Molecular Developmental Neurobiology Group, IRBLleida-UDL Rovira Roure 82, 25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Gerard Piñol-Ripoll
- Unitat Trastorns Cognitius, IRBLleida-Hospital Universitari Santa Maria Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Pau Marfull
- Molecular Developmental Neurobiology Group, IRBLleida-UDL Rovira Roure 82, 25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Daniel Rocandio
- Molecular Developmental Neurobiology Group, IRBLleida-UDL Rovira Roure 82, 25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Isidro Ferrer
- Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claire Rampon
- Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale (CRCA), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062, Toulouse, France
| | - Joaquim Egea
- Molecular Developmental Neurobiology Group, IRBLleida-UDL Rovira Roure 82, 25198, Lleida, Spain.,Serra Húnter fellow, Associate Professor, Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carme Espinet
- Serra Húnter fellow, Associate Professor, Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain.
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14
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Bradshaw RA, Mobley W, Rush RA. Nerve Growth Factor and Related Substances: A Brief History and an Introduction to the International NGF Meeting Series. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18061143. [PMID: 28587118 PMCID: PMC5485967 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18061143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a protein whose importance to research and its elucidation of fundamental mechanisms in cell and neurobiology far outstrips its basic physiological roles. It was the first of a broad class of cell regulators, largely acting through autocrine and paracrine interactions which will be described herein. It was of similar significance in establishing the identity and unique roles of neurotrophic factors in the development and maintenance of the peripheral and central nervous systems. Finally, it contributed to many advances in the elaboration of cell surface receptor mechanisms and intracellular cell signaling. As such, it can be considered to be a “molecular Rosetta Stone”. In this brief review, the highlights of these various studies are summarized, particularly as illustrated by their coverage in the 13 NGF international meetings that have been held since 1986.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph A Bradshaw
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - William Mobley
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Robert A Rush
- Department of Human Physiology, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
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15
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Isaev NK, Stelmashook EV, Genrikhs EE. Role of Nerve Growth Factor in Plasticity of Forebrain Cholinergic Neurons. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2017; 82:291-300. [PMID: 28320270 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297917030075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal plastic rearrangements during the development and functioning of neurons are largely regulated by trophic factors, including nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is also involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. In the brain, NGF is produced in structures innervated by basal forebrain cholinergic neurons and retrogradely transported along the axons to the bodies of cholinergic neurons. NGF is essential for normal development and functioning of the basal forebrain; it affects formation of the dendritic tree and modulates the activities of choline acetyltransferase and acetylcholinesterase in basal forebrain neurons. The trophic effect of NGF is mediated through its interactions with TrkA and p75 receptors. Experimental and clinical studies have shown that brain levels of NGF are altered in various pathologies. However, the therapeutic use of NGF is limited by its poor ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, adverse side effects that are due to the pleiotropic action of this factor, and the possibility of immune response to NGF. For this reason, the development of gene therapy methods for treating NGF deficit-associated pathologies is of particular interest. Another approach is creation of low molecular weight NGF mimetics that would interact with the corresponding receptors and display high biological activity but be free of the unfavorable effects of NGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- N K Isaev
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Moscow, 119991, Russia.
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16
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Zhang M, Gao CE, Li WH, Yang Y, Chang L, Dong J, Ren YX, Chen DD. Microarray based analysis of gene regulation by mesenchymal stem cells in breast cancer. Oncol Lett 2017; 13:2770-2776. [PMID: 28454465 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.5776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors with a high case-fatality rate among women. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on breast cancer by exploring the potential underlying molecular mechanisms. The expression profile of GSE43306, which refers to MDA-MB-231 cells with or without a 1:1 ratio of MSCs, was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database for differentially expressed gene (DEG) screening. The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery was used for gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis for DEGs. The protein-protein interactional (PPI) network of DEGs was constructed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins. The data was subsequently analyzed using molecular complex detection for sub-network mining of modules. Finally, DEGs in modules were analyzed using GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. A total of 291 DEGs including 193 upregulated and 98 downregulated DEGs were obtained. Upregulated DEGs were primarily enriched in pathways including response to wounding (P=5.92×10-7), inflammatory response (P=5.92×10-4) and defense response (P=1.20×10-2), whereas downregulated DEGs were enriched in pathways including the cell cycle (P=7.13×10-4), mitotic cell cycle (P=6.81×10-3) and M phase (P=1.72 ×10-2). The PPI network, which contained 156 nodes and 289 edges, was constructed, and Fos was the hub node with the degree of 29. A total of 3 modules were mined from the PPI network. In total, 14 DEGs in module A were primarily enriched in GO terms, including response to wounding (P=4.77×10-6), wounding healing (P=6.25×10-7) and coagulation (P=1.13 ×10-7), and these DEGs were also enriched in 1 KEGG pathway (complement and coagulation cascades; P=0.0036). Therefore, MSCs were demonstrated to exhibit potentially beneficial effects for breast cancer therapy. In addition, the screened DEGs, particularly in PPI network modules, including FN1, CD44, NGF, SERPINE1 and CCNA2, may be the potential target genes of MSC therapy for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, P.R. China
| | - Chang E Gao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, P.R. China
| | - Wen Hui Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, P.R. China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, P.R. China
| | - Li Chang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, P.R. China
| | - Jian Dong
- Institute of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, P.R. China
| | - Yan Xin Ren
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, P.R. China
| | - De Dian Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650118, P.R. China
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Pramanik S, Sulistio YA, Heese K. Neurotrophin Signaling and Stem Cells-Implications for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Stem Cell Therapy. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:7401-7459. [PMID: 27815842 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0214-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurotrophins (NTs) are members of a neuronal growth factor protein family whose action is mediated by the tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) receptor family receptors and the p75 NT receptor (p75NTR), a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor family. Although NTs were first discovered in neurons, recent studies have suggested that NTs and their receptors are expressed in various types of stem cells mediating pivotal signaling events in stem cell biology. The concept of stem cell therapy has already attracted much attention as a potential strategy for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Strikingly, NTs, proNTs, and their receptors are gaining interest as key regulators of stem cells differentiation, survival, self-renewal, plasticity, and migration. In this review, we elaborate the recent progress in understanding of NTs and their action on various stem cells. First, we provide current knowledge of NTs, proNTs, and their receptor isoforms and signaling pathways. Subsequently, we describe recent advances in the understanding of NT activities in various stem cells and their role in NDs, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Finally, we compile the implications of NTs and stem cells from a clinical perspective and discuss the challenges with regard to transplantation therapy for treatment of AD and PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subrata Pramanik
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 133-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Yanuar Alan Sulistio
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 133-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Klaus Heese
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 133-791, Republic of Korea.
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Safety and pharmacokinetics of escalating doses of human recombinant nerve growth factor eye drops in a double-masked, randomized clinical trial. BioDrugs 2015; 28:275-83. [PMID: 24327173 PMCID: PMC4030100 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-013-0079-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophin with therapeutic possibilities that extend from the nervous system to the eye. We tested the safety, maximal tolerated dose, pharmacokinetics, and antigenicity of a novel human recombinant NGF (rhNGF) eye-drop formulation in a phase I study. METHODS This prospective, randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled trial, sponsored by Dompé SpA (registered as NCT01744704 at ClinicalTrials.gov), enrolled 74 healthy volunteers (24 females, 50 males, age 40.2 ± 11.8 years). Subjects were randomized in three cohorts to receive (1) a single eye-drop containing 0.0175, 0.175, or 0.7 μg rhNGF; (2) a single ascending dose of rhNGF eye drops three times a day for 1 day (total daily dose 2.1, 6.3, or 18.9 μg), or vehicle; or (3) a multiple ascending dose of rhNGF eye drops three times a day for 5 days (total dose 10.5, 31.5, or 94.5 μg), or vehicle. Outcome measures included blood chemistry, urinalyses, vital signs, electrocardiograms (ECGs), serum NGF antibodies, ocular and systemic adverse events (AEs), visual acuity, tear function, intraocular pressure, fundus oculi, and ocular symptoms. RESULTS Administration of rhNGF eye drops did not result in a significant increase of circulating NGF levels and no antidrug antibodies were detected in serum. No serious AEs were recorded, and a few mild, transient ocular AEs related to rhNGF administration were reported only at the highest concentration. CONCLUSIONS rhNGF eye drops were well tolerated, with no detectable clinical evidence of systemic AEs. These results pave the way for the development of clinical trials on rhNGF in ophthalmology.
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Lim Y, Zhong JH, Zhou XF. Development of mature BDNF-specific sandwich ELISA. J Neurochem 2015; 134:75-85. [PMID: 25824396 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Mature brain-derived neurotrophic factor (mBDNF) plays a vital role in the nervous system, whereas proBDNF elicits neurodegeneration and neuronal apoptosis. Although current enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been widely used to measure BDNF levels, it cannot differentiate mBDNF from proBDNF. As the function of proBDNF differs from mBDNF, it is necessary to establish an ELISA assay specific for the detection of mBDNF. Therefore, we aimed to establish a new mBDNF-specific sandwich ELISA. In this study, we have screened and found a combination of antibodies for a sandwich ELISA. A monoclonal antibody and sheep anti-BDNF were chosen as capture and detection antibody for sandwich ELISA respectively. The new ELISA showed no cross-reactivity to human recombinant NT-3, NT-4, nerve growth factor and negligible cross-reactivity (0.99-4.99%) for proBDNF compared to commercial ELISA kits (33.18-91.09%). The application of the new mBDNF ELISA was shown through the measurement of mBDNF levels in different brain regions of rats and in the brain of β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1)(-/-) and WT mice and compared to western blot. Overall, this new ELISA will be useful for the measurement of mBDNF levels with high specificity. As the function of proBDNF differs from mBDNF (mature BDNF), it is necessary to establish an ELISA specific for the detection of mBDNF. Here, we present a novel sandwich ELISA which detects mBDNF with high specificity. This new ELISA will be useful for the measurement of mBDNF levels with high specificity in various human and animal tissues. proBDNF, precursor of BDNF; BDNF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor; NT-3, neurotrophin-3; NT-4, neurotrophin-4; NGF, nerve growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Lim
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, Division of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Department of Human Physiology, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Flinders, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jin-Hua Zhong
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, Division of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Xin-Fu Zhou
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Sansom Institute, Division of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Bradshaw RA, Pundavela J, Biarc J, Chalkley RJ, Burlingame AL, Hondermarck H. NGF and ProNGF: Regulation of neuronal and neoplastic responses through receptor signaling. Adv Biol Regul 2014; 58:16-27. [PMID: 25491371 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) and its precursor (proNGF) are primarily considered as regulators of neuronal function that induce their responses via the tyrosine kinase receptor TrkA and the pan-neurotrophin receptor p75NTR. It has been generally held that NGF exerts its effects primarily through TrkA, inducing a cascade of tyrosine kinase-initiated responses, while proNGF binds more strongly to p75NTR. When this latter entity interacts with a third receptor, sortilin, apoptotic responses are induced in contrast to the survival/differentiation associated with the other two. Recent studies have outlined portions of the downstream phosphoproteome of TrkA in the neuronal PC12 cells and have clarified the contribution of individual docking sites in the TrkA endodomain. The patterns observed showed a similarity with the profile induced by the epidermal growth factor receptor, which is extensively associated with oncogenesis. Indeed, as with other neurotrophic factors, the distribution of TrkA and p75NTR is not limited to neuronal tissue, thus providing an array of targets outside the nervous systems. One such source is breast cancer cells, in which NGF and proNGF stimulate breast cancer cell survival/growth and enhance cell invasion, respectively. This latter activity is exerted via TrkA (as opposed to p75NTR) in conjunction with sortilin. Another tissue overexpressing proNGF is prostate cancer and here the ability of cancer cells to induce neuritogenesis has been implicated in cancer progression. These studies show that the non-neuronal functions of proNGF/NGF are likely integrated with their neuronal activities and point to the clinical utility of these growth factors and their receptors as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for metastasis and cancer pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jay Pundavela
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Australia.
| | - Jordane Biarc
- Dept of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | | | - A L Burlingame
- Dept of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Australia.
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Iulita MF, Cuello AC. Nerve growth factor metabolic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2014; 35:338-48. [PMID: 24962069 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2014.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative condition and the most common type of amnestic dementia in the elderly. Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at increased risk of developing AD in adulthood as a result of chromosome 21 trisomy and triplication of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) gene. In both conditions, the central nervous system (CNS) basal forebrain cholinergic system progressively degenerates, and such changes contribute to the manifestation of cognitive decline and dementia. Given the strong dependency of these neurons on nerve growth factor (NGF), it was hypothesized that their atrophy was caused by NGF deficits. However, in AD, the synthesis of NGF is not affected at the transcript level and there is a marked increase in its precursor, proNGF. This apparent paradox remained elusive for many years. In this review, we discuss the recent evidence supporting a CNS deficit in the extracellular metabolism of NGF, both in AD and in DS brains. We describe the nature of this trophic disconnection and its implication for the atrophy of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. We further discuss the potential of NGF pathway markers as diagnostic indicators of a CNS trophic disconnection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Florencia Iulita
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, H3G1Y6, Canada
| | - A Claudio Cuello
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, H3G1Y6, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, H3G1Y6, Canada; Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, H3G1Y6, Canada.
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Merrill DA, Blesch A, Tuszynski MH. Therapeutic potential of nervous system growth factors for neurodegenerative disease. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 2:89-96. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2.1.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Wang W, Chen J, Guo X. The role of nerve growth factor and its receptors in tumorigenesis and cancer pain. Biosci Trends 2014; 8:68-74. [DOI: 10.5582/bst.8.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Regulation of nerve growth factor by anti-inflammatory drugs, a steroid, and a selective cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor in human intervertebral disc cells stimulated with interleukin-1. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2013; 38:1466-72. [PMID: 23574818 DOI: 10.1097/brs.0b013e318294edb1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Regulation of nerve growth factor (NGF) by 2 different anti-inflammatory drugs was investigated in vitro using isolated human intervertebral disc (IVD) cells stimulated with the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1). OBJECTIVE To investigate the regulation of NGF by a synthetic steroid and a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor and to clarify the biological role of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in this process. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA NGF is known to play an important role in pain, including low back pain, and to be induced by proinflammatory cytokines in IVD cells. However, the effect of clinically used drugs for managing low back pain on the regulation of NGF is unclear. METHODS Isolated human IVD cells were stimulated with interleukin-1 (IL-1) in the presence or absence of dexamethasone or a selective COX-2 inhibitor (NS-398). NGF expression and release were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay, respectively. Inhibition of PGE2 release was determined by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay. The effects of exogenous PGE2 and its receptor (E-series prostanoid receptors [EPs] 1-4) agonists were also tested for NGF regulation. RESULTS IL-1 transiently induced, in a dose-dependent manner, the induction of NGF in human IVD cells. Pretreatment with dexamethasone strongly inhibited the NGF expression, whereas NS-398 significantly enhanced it at the concentration at which PGE2 release was substantially inhibited. Exogenous PGE2 inhibited IL-1 induction of NGF and this effect was mimicked when EP2 and EP4, but not EP1 and EP3, agonists were supplemented to the culture. CONCLUSION Although selective COX-2 inhibitors have been shown to be effective for acute low back pain by inhibiting PGE2 release, our findings suggest that it may have a limited efficacy because it exaggerated NGF expression, whereas dexamethasone inhibited it. On the other hand, PGE2 had an inhibitory function for NGF induction by mediating EP2/4 in human IVD cells. Further studies are needed to clarify whether these observations could take place in vivo. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A.
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Müller M, Triaca V, Besusso D, Costanzi M, Horn JM, Koudelka J, Geibel M, Cestari V, Minichiello L. Loss of NGF-TrkA signaling from the CNS is not sufficient to induce cognitive impairments in young adult or intermediate-aged mice. J Neurosci 2012; 32:14885-98. [PMID: 23100411 PMCID: PMC6704821 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2849-12.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Revised: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Many molecules expressed in the CNS contribute to cognitive functions either by modulating neuronal activity or by mediating neuronal trophic support and/or connectivity. An ongoing discussion is whether signaling of nerve growth factor (NGF) through its high-affinity receptor TrkA contributes to attention behavior and/or learning and memory, based on its expression in relevant regions of the CNS such as the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, amygdala and basal forebrain. Previous animal models carrying either a null allele or transgenic manipulation of Ngf or Trka have proved difficult in addressing this question. To overcome this problem, we conditionally deleted Ngf or Trka from the CNS. Our findings confirm that NGF-TrkA signaling supports survival of only a small proportion of cholinergic neurons during development; however, this signaling is not required for trophic support or connectivity of the remaining basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. Moreover, comprehensive behavioral analysis of young adult and intermediate-aged mice lacking NGF-TrkA signaling demonstrates that this signaling is dispensable for both attention behavior and various aspects of learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Müller
- Mouse Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Viviana Triaca
- Mouse Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Dario Besusso
- Mouse Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, University of Edinburgh, EH16 4SB Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Costanzi
- Cellular Biology and Neurobiology Institute, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 00143 Rome, Italy
- Department of Human Science, Lumsa University, 00193 Rome, Italy
| | - Jacqueline M. Horn
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, University of Edinburgh, EH16 4SB Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Juraj Koudelka
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, University of Edinburgh, EH16 4SB Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mirjam Geibel
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, University of Edinburgh, EH16 4SB Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Vincenzo Cestari
- Cellular Biology and Neurobiology Institute, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 00143 Rome, Italy
- Department of Human Science, Lumsa University, 00193 Rome, Italy
| | - Liliana Minichiello
- Mouse Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, 00015 Monterotondo, Italy
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, University of Edinburgh, EH16 4SB Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Abdelkader H, Patel DV, McGhee CN, Alany RG. New therapeutic approaches in the treatment of diabetic keratopathy: a review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2011; 39:259-70. [PMID: 20973888 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-9071.2010.02435.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is densely innervated, and the integrity of these nerve fibres is critical in maintaining the refractive and protective functions of the cornea. Many ocular and systemic diseases can adversely affect corneal sensory nerves and consequently impair their function, with vision loss being the inevitable consequence of severe corneal neurotrophic ulceration. However, current standard treatments regimens are often ineffective. Over the past three decades, the role of growth factors in maintaining the normal structure and function of the cornea, and in corneal epithelial healing, has become increasingly evident. Many preclinical and clinical trials have shown that growth factors and cytokines can significantly enhance epithelialization (epithelial proliferation and migration) and consequently accelerate wound healing. More recently, local/topical administration of insulin, naltrexone (opioid antagonist) and nicergoline (ergoline derivatives) were found to improve, and significantly increase, the corneal wound healing rate. This report reviews the major attributes of these growth factors and therapeutic agents that may be used in ameliorating impaired corneal wound healing, and presents a perspective on the potential clinical use of these agents as a new generation of ophthalmic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of diabetic keratopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamdy Abdelkader
- Drug Delivery Research Unit (2DRU), School of Pharmacy Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, United Kingdom
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McHugh PC, Rogers GR, Glubb DM, Joyce PR, Kennedy MA. Proteomic analysis of rat hippocampus exposed to the antidepressant paroxetine. J Psychopharmacol 2010; 24:1243-51. [PMID: 19346281 DOI: 10.1177/0269881109102786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Antidepressant drugs can exert significant effects on the mood of a patient suffering major depression and other disorders. These drugs generally have pharmacological actions on the uptake or metabolism of the neurotransmitters serotonin, noradrenaline and, to a lesser extent, dopamine. However, there are many aspects of antidepressant action we do not understand. We have applied proteomic analysis in a rat hippocampal model in an attempt to identify relevant molecules that operate in pathways functionally relevant to antidepressant action. Rats were administered either 5 mg/kg daily of the antidepressant paroxetine or vehicle for 12 days, then hippocampal protein was recovered and resolved by 2-D gel electrophoresis. After antidepressant exposure, we observed increased expression or modification of cytochrome c oxidase, subunit Va, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A interacting protein, dynein, axonemal, heavy polypeptide 3 and RHO GDP-dissociation inhibitor alpha. Decreased expression or modification was observed for complexin 1 (CPLX1), alpha-synuclein, parvalbumin, ribosomal protein large P2, prohibitin, nerve growth factor, beta subunit (NGFB), peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6), 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase 2_predicted, cystatin B (CYTB) and lysosomal membrane glycoprotein 1. CPLX1, the most strongly regulated protein observed, mediates the fusion of cellular transport vesicles with their target membranes and has been implicated in the pathophysiology of mood disorders, as well as antidepressant action. CPLX1 and the other proteins identified may represent links into molecular processes of importance to mood dysregulation and control, and their respective genes may represent novel candidates for studies of antidepressant pharmacogenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C McHugh
- Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand.
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Lecht S, Arien-Zakay H, Wagenstein Y, Inoue S, Marcinkiewicz C, Lelkes PI, Lazarovici P. Transient signaling of Erk1/2, Akt and PLCgamma induced by nerve growth factor in brain capillary endothelial cells. Vascul Pharmacol 2010; 53:107-14. [PMID: 20434587 DOI: 10.1016/j.vph.2010.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2009] [Revised: 03/15/2010] [Accepted: 04/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Cumulative evidences suggest that nerve growth factor (NGF) promotes angiogenic effects such as proliferation and migration of endothelial cells (ECs) from different vascular beds, induces capillary sprouting in chorioallantoic membrane and improves in vivo vascularization in a hind-limb ischemic model. In the present study, we sought to investigate the signaling properties of NGF in a microcapillary ECs model compared to those of a neuronal model. NGF-induced phosphorylation of signaling molecules Erk1/2, Akt and PLCgamma were measured using Western blotting and compared between mouse NGF (mNGF) and snake venom NGF analogues. NGFs-induced signaling was TrkA mediated as evident by inhibition with the TrkA antagonist K252a. NGF and its analogues-induced signaling in ECs were characterized by a transient effect in contrast to a prolonged stimulation in neuronal cells. The potency of mouse, cobra and viper NGFs to induce Erk1/2 phosphorylation in ECs was higher than in neurons. In ECs, mNGF exhibited the highest efficacy of stimulation of Erk1/2 phosphorylation, followed by viper and cobra NGFs. The efficacy of stimulation of Erk1/2 phosphorylation measured with neurons was opposite from that in ECs. NGF-induced temporal signaling differences between ECs and neurons may explain the dual vascular and neurotrophic effects of this growth factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimon Lecht
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Kichev A, Ilieva EV, Piñol-Ripoll G, Podlesniy P, Ferrer I, Portero-Otín M, Pamplona R, Espinet C. Cell death and learning impairment in mice caused by in vitro modified pro-NGF can be related to its increased oxidative modifications in Alzheimer disease. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2009; 175:2574-85. [PMID: 19893045 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2009.090018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Pro-nerve growth factor (pro-NGF) is expressed at increased levels in Alzheimer's disease (AD)-affected brains and is able to induce cell death in cultures; however, the reasons for these phenomena remain elusive. Here we show that pro-NGF in human AD-affected hippocampus and entorhinal cortex is modified by advanced glycation and lipoxidation end-products in a stage-dependent manner. These modifications block pro-NGF processing to mature NGF, thus making the proneurotrophin especially effective in inducing apoptosis of PC12 cells in culture through the p75 neurotrophin receptor. The processing of advanced glycation and lipoxidation end-products in vitro modified recombinant human pro-NGF is severely impaired, as evidenced by Western blot and by examining its physiological functionality in cell cultures. We also report that modified recombinant human pro-NGF, as well as pro-NGF isolated from human brain affected by AD, cause impairment of learning tasks when administered intracerebroventricularly in mice, which correlates with AD-associated learning impairment. Taken together, the data we present here offer a novel pathway of ethiopathogenesis in AD caused by advanced glycation and lipoxidation end-products modification of pro-NGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Kichev
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Lleida-IRBLLEIDA, Lleida, Spain
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Nerve growth factor in rheumatic diseases. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2009; 40:109-26. [PMID: 19481238 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2009.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2008] [Revised: 02/20/2009] [Accepted: 03/16/2009] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The nervous system modulates the immune response in many autoimmune syndromes by neurogenic inflammation. One of the pivotal mediators is nerve growth factor (NGF), which is known for its effects on neuronal survival and growth. There is considerable evidence that NGF acts as an important mediator of many immune responses. This article reviews the role of NGF in rheumatic diseases and strategies for potential therapeutic interventions. METHODS We conducted a database search using Medline and Medpilot. Eight hundred abstracts containing the keyword NGF and 1 of the following terms were reviewed: arthritis, neurogenic inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, collagen arthritis, arteritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Sjogren syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, gout, osteoporosis, lower back pain, lumbar disc herniation, nerve root compression, spondyloarthritis, spondylarthropathy, algoneurodystrophy, fibromyalgia, Kawasaki syndrome, polyarteritis nodosa, cytokine, vasculitis, pain, therapy, and antagonist. Articles were analyzed based on relevance and content. Most clinical trials and studies with human specimens were included. Studies with experimental animal models were selected if they contained relevant data. RESULTS NGF is overexpressed in many inflammatory and degenerative rheumatic diseases. Concentrations differ to some extent and sometimes even show contradictory results. NGF is found in serum, synovial fluid, and cerebrospinal fluid, and tissue specimens. NGF concentrations can be correlated with the extent of inflammation and/or clinical activity in many conditions. In rheumatoid arthritis, NGF levels are significantly higher as compared with osteoarthritis. CONCLUSIONS NGF is a significant mediator and modulator of inflammation. NGF sometimes shows detrimental and sometimes regenerative activity. These findings indicate potential therapeutic interventions using either NGF antagonists or recombinant NGF.
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Nerve growth factor from Vipera lebetina venom. Toxicon 2009; 54:329-36. [PMID: 19463841 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2009.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2009] [Revised: 04/29/2009] [Accepted: 05/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor was isolated from the Vipera lebetina venom by a four-step procedure including gel filtration, ion exchange, heparin and hydrophobic chromatography. The purified protein is a glycosylated non-covalently bound homodimer with monomeric molecular mass of 14,380 Da. The cDNA encoding NGF is cloned and sequenced. The amino acid sequence translated from the cDNA comprises 117 or 119 amino acids depending on the N-terminus (truncated or not). The recombinant NGF (expressed in Escherichia coli) was used to prepare the anti-NGF antiserum. The antiserum interacted with the wild-type NGF and enabled to localize NGF during the purification procedure in parallel with MALDI-TOF analysis of tryptic peptides. The isolated NGF caused neurite outgrowth from PC12 cells in concentrations beginning from 2.5 ng/ml.
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Hoffjan S, Parwez Q, Petrasch-Parwez E, Stemmler S. Variation in the BDNF and NGFB genes in German atopic dermatitis patients. Mol Cell Probes 2009; 23:35-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2008.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2008] [Revised: 10/28/2008] [Accepted: 10/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Chung JY, Choi JH, Shin IS, Choi EW, Hwang CY, Lee SK, Youn HY. In vitro and in vivo gene therapy with CMV vector-mediated presumed dog beta-nerve growth factor in pyridoxine-induced neuropathy dogs. J Vet Sci 2009; 9:367-73. [PMID: 19043311 PMCID: PMC2811777 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2008.9.4.367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the therapeutic potential of gene therapy for neuronal injury, many studies of neurotrophic factors, vectors, and animal models have been performed. The presumed dog β-nerve growth factor (pdβ-NGF) was generated and cloned and its expression was confirmed in CHO cells. The recombinant pdβ-NGF protein reacted with a human β-NGF antibody and showed bioactivity in PC12 cells. The pdβ-NGF was shown to have similar bioactivity to the dog β-NGF. The recombinant pdβ-NGF plasmid was administrated into the intrathecal space in the gene therapy group. Twenty-four hours after the vector inoculation, the gene therapy group and the positive control group were intoxicated with excess pyridoxine for seven days. Each morning throughout the test period, the dogs' body weight was taken and postural reaction assessments were made. Electrophysiological recordings were performed twice, once before the experiment and once after the test period. After the experimental period, histological analysis was performed. Dogs in the gene therapy group had no weight change and were normal in postural reaction assessments. Electrophysiological recordings were also normal for the gene therapy group. Histological analysis showed that neither the axons nor the myelin of the dorsal funiculus of L4 were severely damaged in the gene therapy group. In addition, the dorsal root ganglia of L4 and the peripheral nerves (sciatic nerve) did not experience severe degenerative changes in the gene therapy group. This study is the first to show the protective effect of NGF gene therapy in a dog model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Young Chung
- Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Korea
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Thoenen H, Korsching S, Heumann R, Acheson A. Nerve growth factor. CIBA FOUNDATION SYMPOSIUM 2008; 116:113-28. [PMID: 3000703 DOI: 10.1002/9780470720974.ch8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In contrast to all other molecules which are labelled 'growth factor', NGF is not a mitogen. It is a neurotrophic molecule essential for the development and maintenance of function of specific populations of peripheral and possibly also central neurons. The availability of NGF in large quantities from exocrine glands (e.g. male mouse submandibular gland), where NGF does not play a neurotrophic role, has allowed the purification of NGF, the production of specific antibodies, the determination of its amino acid sequence and finally the molecular cloning of NGF leading to the elucidation of its precursor structure and its genomic organization. Comparison of the biological activities and the immunological properties of NGF isolated from different sources demonstrated that the active centre of the molecule has been highly conserved during evolution, whereas other parts of the molecule determining immunological properties have undergone considerable changes. After a survey of the essential biological actions of NGF, this paper concentrates on two actual questions of NGF research, namely the regulation of NGF synthesis in the target tissues of NGF-responsive neurons, and the molecular mechanism(s) of action of NGF on these neurons.
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Abstract
The guinea pig has been the most commonly used small animal species in preclinical studies related to asthma and COPD. The primary advantages of the guinea pig are the similar potencies and efficacies of agonists and antagonists in human and guinea pig airways and the many similarities in physiological processes, especially airway autonomic control and the response to allergen. The primary disadvantages to using guinea pigs are the lack of transgenic methods, limited numbers of guinea pig strains for comparative studies and a prominent axon reflex that is unlikely to be present in human airways. These attributes and various models developed in guinea pigs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Canning
- Johns Hopkins Asthma and Allergy Center, 5501 Hopkins Bayview Circle, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Abstract
Cell death is the final common pathway of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nervous system growth factors, or neurotrophic factors, are substances naturally produced in the nervous system that support neuronal survival during development and influence neuronal function throughout adulthood. Notably, in animal models, including primates, neurotrophic factors prevent neuronal death after injury and can reverse spontaneous neuronal atrophy in aging. Thus, neurotrophic factor therapy has the potential to prevent or reduce ongoing cell loss in disorders such as AD. The main challenge in clinical testing of neurotrophic factors has been their delivery to the brain in sufficient doses to impact cell function, while restricting their delivery to specific sites to prevent adverse effects from broad distribution. This article reviews progress in evaluating the therapeutic potential of growth factors, from early animal models to human clinical trials currently underway in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark H Tuszynski
- Department of Neurosciences-0626, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA.
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Dicou E. Peptides other than the neurotrophins that can be cleaved from proneurotrophins: a neglected story. Arch Physiol Biochem 2007; 113:228-33. [PMID: 17917853 DOI: 10.1080/13813450701531250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The members of the family of neurotrophic factors known as neurotrophins, NGF, BDNF, NT-3 and NT4/5 are known to be cleaved intracellularly from immature precursors, the proneurotrophins. NGF and the other neurotrophins regulate neurite outgrowth and neuronal survival during development via binding to Trk receptor tyrosine kinases and the p75 neurotrophin receptor. Surprisingly, the proneurotrophins were shown to be also biologically active ligands. ProNGF and proBDNF induce neuronal apoptosis via binding to a complex of p75 and sortilin. Therefore, life and death seems to be a delicate interplay between 'cleavage' or 'not cleavage' of the proneurotrophins. However, there is a third aspect to this story. In general, peptide-hormone precursors are known to give rise to several biologically active peptides from one precursor molecule. The paradox with the proneurotrophins is that although they have several additional potential cleavage sites that would necessarily give rise to other peptides besides the neurotrophins and thus new members in the neurotrophin family, this aspect has been largely neglected. This article aims to review evidence for biologically active peptides other than the NGF and NT-3 that can be generated from the proNGF and proNT-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Dicou
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du CNRS, 660 route des Lucioles, Valbonne, France.
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Thoenen H, Barde YA, Davies AM, Johnson JE. Neurotrophic factors and neuronal death. CIBA FOUNDATION SYMPOSIUM 2007; 126:82-95. [PMID: 3556091 DOI: 10.1002/9780470513422.ch6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The well-documented physiological role of nerve growth factor (NGF) in peripheral sympathetic and neural-crest-derived sensory neurons in vivo has its exact counterpart in vitro. This provided the conceptual basis for developing in vitro analytical procedures for the purification of new neurotrophic molecules. The experimental approaches used are discussed in the context of the purification of new neurotrophic factors, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). The importance of the modulatory role played by extracellular matrix molecules, in particular laminin, on both NGF-mediated and BDNF-mediated survival effects is also delineated. BDNF is a very basic (pI approximately 10) molecule of about 12 kDa, having physico-chemical characteristics close to those of the monomer of NGF. However, the spectrum of its biological actions is distinctly different from that of NGF. In particular, BDNF supports the survival of retinal ganglion cells and placode-derived peripheral sensory neurons which are not supported by NGF. The trophic supply of primary sensory neurons projecting to both the central nervous system and the periphery is discussed. It is hypothesized that sensory neurons receive limited quantities of neurotrophic molecules from both peripheral and central axons, a mechanism ensuring the survival of neurons adequately connected with both peripheral and central targets.
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Abstract
Nervous system growth factors potently stimulate cell function and prevent neuronal death. These broad effects on survival and function arise from direct downstream activation of antiapoptotic pathways, inhibition of proapoptotic pathways, and stimulation of functionally important cellular mechanisms including ERK/MAP kinase and CREB. Thus, as a class, growth factors offer the potential to treat neurodegenerative disorders for the first time by preventing neuronal degeneration rather than compensating for cell loss after it has occurred. Different growth factors affect distinct and specific populations of neurons: the first nervous system growth factor identified, nerve growth factor, potentially stimulates the survival and function of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, suggesting that nerve growth factor could be a means for reducing the cholinergic component of cell degeneration in Alzheimer disease. This review will discuss the transition of growth factors from preclinical studies to human clinical trials in Alzheimer disease. The implementation of clinical testing of growth factor therapy for neurologic disease has been constrained by the dual need to achieve adequate concentrations of these proteins in specific brain regions containing degenerating neurons, and preventing growth factor spread to nontargeted regions to avoid adverse effects. Gene therapy is one of a limited number of potential methods for achieving these requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark H Tuszynski
- Department of Neurosciences-0626, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla 92161, and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Li C, Stanton JAL, Robertson TM, Suttie JM, Sheard PW, Harris AJ, Clark DE. Nerve growth factor mRNA expression in the regenerating antler tip of red deer (Cervus elaphus). PLoS One 2007; 2:e148. [PMID: 17215957 PMCID: PMC1764646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0000148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2006] [Accepted: 12/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Deer antlers are the only mammalian organs that can fully regenerate each year. During their growth phase, antlers of red deer extend at a rate of approximately 10 mm/day, a growth rate matched by the antler nerves. It was demonstrated in a previous study that extracts from deer velvet antler can promote neurite outgrowth from neural explants, suggesting a possible role for Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in antler innervation. Here we showed using the techniques of Northern blot analysis, denervation, immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization that NGF mRNA was expressed in the regenerating antler, principally in the smooth muscle of the arteries and arterioles of the growing antler tip. Regenerating axons followed the route of the major blood vessels, located at the interface between the dermis and the reserve mesenchyme of the antler. Denervation experiments suggested a causal relationship exists between NGF mRNA expression in arterial smooth muscle and sensory axons in the antler tip. We hypothesize that NGF expressed in the smooth muscle of the arteries and arterioles promotes and maintains antler angiogenesis and this role positions NGF ahead of axons during antler growth. As a result, NGF can serve a second role, attracting sensory axons into the antler, and thus it can provide a guidance cue to define the nerve track. This would explain the phenomenon whereby re-innervation of the regenerating antler follows vascular ingrowth. The annual growth of deer antler presents a unique opportunity to better understand the factors involved in rapid nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyi Li
- AgResearch, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel, New Zealand.
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Lazarovici P, Gazit A, Staniszewska I, Marcinkiewicz C, Lelkes PI. Nerve growth factor (NGF) promotes angiogenesis in the quail chorioallantoic membrane. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 13:51-9. [PMID: 16885067 DOI: 10.1080/10623320600669053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is tightly regulated by growth factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF). The authors hypothesize that nerve growth factor (NGF), a well known neurotrophin, may play a direct angiogenic role. To test this hypothesis, the authors measured the effects of NGF on the natural vascularization of the quail chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). The angiogenic effect of NGF was compared to that of human recombinant VEGF165 (rhVEGF) and basic FGF (rhbFGF). In comparison to phosphate-buffered saline-treated controls, NGFs from different biological sources (mouse, viper, and cobra) increased the rate of angiogenesis in a dose-dependent fashion from 0.5 to 5 microg. For quantitative morphometry, grayscale images of the blood vessels end points of the CAM arteries were binarized for visualization and skeletonized for quantization by fractal analysis. In mouse NGF-treated embryos the fractal dimension (Df), indicative of arterial vessel length and density, increased to 1.266 +/- 0.021 compared to 1.131 +/- 0.018 (p < .001) for control embryos. This effect was similar to that of 0.5 microg rhVEGF (1.290 +/- 0.021, p < .001) and 1.5 microg rhbFGF (1.264 +/- 0.028, p < .001). The mouse NGF-induced angiogenic effect was blocked by 1 microM K252a (1.149 +/- 0.018, p < .001), an antagonist of the NGF/trkA receptor, but not by 1 microM SU-5416 (1.263 +/- 0.029, p < .001), the VEGF/Flk1 receptor antagonist, indicating a direct, selective angiogenic effect of NGF via quail embryo trkA receptor activation. These results confirm previous observations that NGF has angiogenic activity and suggest that this neurotrophin may also play an important role in the cardiovascular system, besides its well-known effects in the nervous system. The angiogenic properties of NGF may be beneficial in engineering new blood vessels and for developing novel antiangiogenesis therapies for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Lazarovici
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Capsoni S, Cattaneo A. On the molecular basis linking Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) to Alzheimer's disease. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2006; 26:619-33. [PMID: 16944323 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-006-9112-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2005] [Accepted: 09/26/2005] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
1. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is pathologically defined by the deposition of amyloid peptide and neurofibrillary tangles and is characterized by a progressive loss of cognition and memory function, due to marked cortical cholinergic depletion. 2. Cholinergic cortical innervation is provided by basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. The neurotrophin Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) promotes survival and differentiation of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. 3. This assertion has been at the basis of the hypothesis developed in the last 20 years, whereby NGF deprivation would be one of the factor involved in the etiology of sporadic forms of AD. 4. In this review, we shall summarize data that lead to the production and characterization of a mouse model for AD (AD11 anti-NGF mice), based on the expression of transgenic antibodies neutralizing NGF. The AD-like phenotype of AD11 mice will be discussed on the basis of recent studies that have posed NGF and its precursor pro-NGF back to the stage of AD-like neurodegeneration, showing the involvement of the precursor pro-NGF in one of the cascades leading to AD neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Capsoni
- Lay Line Genomics S.p.A., Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128, Rome, Italy.
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Dicou E. Multiple biological activities for two peptides derived from the nerve growth factor precursor. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2006; 347:833-7. [PMID: 16843439 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.06.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2006] [Accepted: 06/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ProNGF can be cleaved proteolytically at dibasic residues and liberates two other peptides beside NGF, LIP1 a 29 amino acid (aa) peptide and LIP2 a 38 aa peptide. These peptides were found present in the rat intestine and shown to induce rapid phosphorylation of the Trk receptor in cell lines. The present study describes several novel biological properties for these peptides. They exert an anti-proliferative effect on the mitogenic activity of estrogen and IGF in MCF-7 cells. They protect against in vivo induction of excitotoxic lesions by the glutamatergic analogue ibotenate injected into the developing mouse brain and against in vitro NMDA-induced cell death in primary neuronal cultures. They bind to murine microglial cells and induce phosphorylation of Akt. These results suggest a role for LIP1 and LIP2 in cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Dicou
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire du CNRS, UMR 6097, Valbonne, France.
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45
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Verpoorten N, De Jonghe P, Timmerman V. Disease mechanisms in hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies. Neurobiol Dis 2006; 21:247-55. [PMID: 16183296 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2005.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2005] [Revised: 08/16/2005] [Accepted: 08/17/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited peripheral neuropathies are common monogenically inherited diseases of the peripheral nervous system. In the most common variant, i.e., the hereditary motor and sensory neuropathies, both motor and sensory nerves are affected. In contrast, sensory abnormalities predominate or are exclusively present in hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies (HSAN). HSAN are clinically and genetically heterogeneous and are subdivided according to mode of inheritance, age of onset and clinical evolution. In recent years, 6 disease-causing genes have been identified for autosomal dominant and recessive HSAN. However, vesicular transport and axonal trafficking seem important common pathways leading to degeneration of sensory and autonomic neurons. This review discusses the HSAN-related genes and their biological role in the disease mechanisms leading to HSAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Verpoorten
- Peripheral Neuropathy Group, Department of Molecular Genetics, Flanders Interuniversity Institute for Biotechnology, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerpen, Belgium
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Colangelo AM, Finotti N, Ceriani M, Alberghina L, Martegani E, Aloe L, Lenzi L, Levi-Montalcini R. Recombinant human nerve growth factor with a marked activity in vitro and in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2006; 102:18658-63. [PMID: 16339317 PMCID: PMC1317951 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0508734102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF) is regarded as the most promising therapy for neurodegeneration of the central and peripheral nervous systems as well as for several other pathological conditions involving the immune system. However, rhNGF is not commercially available as a drug. In this work, we provide data about the production on a laboratory scale of large amounts of a rhNGF that was shown to possess in vivo biochemical, morphological, and pharmacological effects that are comparable with the murine NGF (mNGF), with no apparent side effects, such as allodynia. Our rhNGF was produced by using conventional recombinant DNA technologies combined with a biotechnological approach for high-density culture of mammalian cells, which yielded a production of approximately 21.5 +/- 2.9 mg/liter recombinant protein. The rhNGF-producing cells were thoroughly characterized, and the purified rhNGF was shown to possess a specific activity comparable with that of the 2.5S mNGF by means of biochemical, immunological, and morphological in vitro studies. This work describes the production on a laboratory scale of high levels of a rhNGF with in vitro and, more important, in vivo biological activity equivalent to the native murine protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Colangelo
- Laboratory of Neuroscience R. Levi-Montalcini, Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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Frossard N, Freund V, Advenier C. Nerve growth factor and its receptors in asthma and inflammation. Eur J Pharmacol 2005; 500:453-65. [PMID: 15464052 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2004.07.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2004] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a high molecular weight peptide that belongs to the neurotrophin family. It is synthesized by various structural and inflammatory cells and activates two types of receptors, the TrkA (tropomyosin-receptor kinase A) receptor and the p75(NTR) receptor, in the death receptor family. NGF was first studied for its essential role in neuronal growth and survival. Recent reports indicate that it may also help mediate inflammation, especially in the airways. Several studies in animals have reported that NGF may induce bronchial hyperresponsiveness, an important feature of asthma, by increasing sensory innervation. It may also induce migration and activation of inflammatory cells, which infiltrate the bronchial mucosa, and of structural cells, including epithelial, smooth muscle cells and pulmonary fibroblasts. Increased NGF expression and release is observed in asthma patients after bronchial provocation with allergen. Taken together, the data from the literature suggest that NGF may play a role in inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness and airway remodelling in asthma and may help us to understand the neuro-immune cross-talk involved in chronic inflammatory airway diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelly Frossard
- EA 3771 "Inflammation and Environment in Asthma" Université Louis Pasteur-Strasbourg-I, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France.
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Pedraza CE, Podlesniy P, Vidal N, Arévalo JC, Lee R, Hempstead B, Ferrer I, Iglesias M, Espinet C. Pro-NGF isolated from the human brain affected by Alzheimer's disease induces neuronal apoptosis mediated by p75NTR. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2005; 166:533-43. [PMID: 15681836 PMCID: PMC1602327 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9440(10)62275-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The pro-form of nerve growth factor (pro-NGF) has been shown to be a high affinity ligand for p75NTR and to induce apoptosis through this receptor. It has been reported that pro-NGF, rather than mature NGF, is the predominant form of this neurotrophin in human brain. In the present work we studied the potential involvement of pro-NGF purified from human brains affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD), where it is especially abundant, in the neuronal apoptosis observed in this disease. Western blot analysis of human brain tissue showed the existence of several pro-NGF forms. Some of these pro-NGF forms were significantly increased in AD brain cortex in a disease stage-dependent manner. Pro-NGF, purified by chromatography from human AD brains, induced apoptotic cell death in sympathetic neurons and in a p75NTR stably transfected cell line. Blocking p75NTR in cell culture abolished neuronal apoptosis caused by pro-NGF. p75NTR-transfected cells underwent apoptosis in the presence of pro-NGF while control wild-type cells did not. Taken together, these results indicate that pro-NGF purified from AD human brains can induce apoptosis in neuronal cell cultures through its interaction with the p75NTR receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos E Pedraza
- Laboratori de Neuropatología Molecular, Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, Universitat de Lleida, C/ Montserrat Roig 2, 25008 Lleida, Spain
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The nerve growth factor (NGF) is known as a factor involved in neuronal growth and survival. From recent studies it may also be considered as a mediator of inflammation, in particular in the airways. STATE OF ART Several animal studies have shown that NGF may increase the sensory innervation, and participate in the bronchial hyperresponsiveness and inflammation observed in the airways of asthmatic patients. Different cell types are capable of secreting NGF: inflammatory cells that infiltrate the bronchial mucosa, and structural cells such as epithelial cells, smooth muscle cells and pulmonary fibroblasts. Furthermore, increased NGF levels have been detected in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from asthmatic patients. PERSPECTIVES AND CONCLUSION Altogether, these results suggest that NGF may play a role in inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness and airway remodelling in asthma, and may lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms occurring in chronic inflammatory diseases, in particular asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Freund
- EA 3771 Inflammation et environnement dans l'asthme, Université Louis Pasteur-Strasbourg-I, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
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Abstract
Neurotrophins are growth factors that exert multiple actions on neuronal and nonneuronal cells. Neurotrophin receptors are expressed on central and peripheral neurons, lymphocytes, monocytes, mast cells, and fibroblasts. In accordance with the distribution of their receptors, neurotrophins control the development and function of neurons and regulate inflammatory processes. Production of neurotrophins is altered in asthma, lung cancer, and pulmonary fibrosis. Evidence from animal models has implicated nerve growth factor (NGF) as a mediator of pulmonary inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and airway hyperreactivity, all of which are hallmarks of asthma. NGF regulates the growth of lung tumor cells and cultured lung fibroblasts. Thus neurotrophins, particularly NGF, are candidate molecules for regulating disease processes in asthma, lung cancer, and pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary W Hoyle
- Section of Pulmonary Diseases, Critical Care and Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, SL-9, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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