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Marziali LN, Hwang Y, Palmisano M, Cuenda A, Sim FJ, Gonzalez A, Volsko C, Dutta R, Trapp BD, Wrabetz L, Feltri ML. p38γ MAPK delays myelination and remyelination and is abundant in multiple sclerosis lesions. Brain 2024; 147:1871-1886. [PMID: 38128553 PMCID: PMC11068213 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which disability results from the disruption of myelin and axons. During the initial stages of the disease, injured myelin is replaced by mature myelinating oligodendrocytes that differentiate from oligodendrocyte precursor cells. However, myelin repair fails in secondary and chronic progressive stages of the disease and with ageing, as the environment becomes progressively more hostile. This may be attributable to inhibitory molecules in the multiple sclerosis environment including activation of the p38MAPK family of kinases. We explored oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation and myelin repair using animals with conditional ablation of p38MAPKγ from oligodendrocyte precursors. We found that p38γMAPK ablation accelerated oligodendrocyte precursor cell differentiation and myelination. This resulted in an increase in both the total number of oligodendrocytes and the migration of progenitors ex vivo and faster remyelination in the cuprizone model of demyelination/remyelination. Consistent with its role as an inhibitor of myelination, p38γMAPK was significantly downregulated as oligodendrocyte precursor cells matured into oligodendrocytes. Notably, p38γMAPK was enriched in multiple sclerosis lesions from patients. Oligodendrocyte progenitors expressed high levels of p38γMAPK in areas of failed remyelination but did not express detectable levels of p38γMAPK in areas where remyelination was apparent. Our data suggest that p38γ could be targeted to improve myelin repair in multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro N Marziali
- Institute for Myelin and Glia Exploration, Departments of Biochemistry and Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Yoonchan Hwang
- Institute for Myelin and Glia Exploration, Departments of Biochemistry and Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Marilena Palmisano
- Institute for Myelin and Glia Exploration, Departments of Biochemistry and Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Ana Cuenda
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/CSIC, Madrid 28049, Spain
| | - Fraser J Sim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Alberto Gonzalez
- Institute for Myelin and Glia Exploration, Departments of Biochemistry and Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Christina Volsko
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Ranjan Dutta
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Bruce D Trapp
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Lawrence Wrabetz
- Institute for Myelin and Glia Exploration, Departments of Biochemistry and Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Maria L Feltri
- Institute for Myelin and Glia Exploration, Departments of Biochemistry and Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
- Università degli studi di Milano, Biometra department and IRCcs Carlo Besta, Milano 20133, Italy
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2
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Morales-Martínez M, Vega MI. p38 Molecular Targeting for Next-Generation Multiple Myeloma Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:256. [PMID: 38254747 PMCID: PMC10813990 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020256] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Resistance to therapy and disease progression are the main causes of mortality in most cancers. In particular, the development of resistance is an important limitation affecting the efficacy of therapeutic alternatives for cancer, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Signaling pathways are largely responsible for the mechanisms of resistance to cancer treatment and progression, and multiple myeloma is no exception. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) is downstream of several signaling pathways specific to treatment resistance and progression. Therefore, in recent years, developing therapeutic alternatives directed at p38 has been of great interest, in order to reverse chemotherapy resistance and prevent progression. In this review, we discuss recent findings on the role of p38, including recent advances in our understanding of its expression and activity as well as its isoforms, and its possible clinical role based on the mechanisms of resistance and progression in multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Morales-Martínez
- Molecular Signal Pathway in Cancer Laboratory, UIMEO, Oncology Hospital, Siglo XXI National Medical Center, Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| | - Mario I. Vega
- Molecular Signal Pathway in Cancer Laboratory, UIMEO, Oncology Hospital, Siglo XXI National Medical Center, Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), Mexico City 06720, Mexico
- Department of Medicine, Hematology-Oncology and Clinical Nutrition Division, Greater Los Angeles VA Healthcare Center, UCLA Medical Center, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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3
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Kuo HC, Chen SL, Chiu SC, Lee KF, Chu CH. Tolerized Microglia Protect Neurons Against Endotoxin-Induced TNF-α Production via an LBP-Dependent Intracellular p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway. Inflammation 2023; 46:2011-2023. [PMID: 37365417 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-023-01858-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The development of microglial endotoxin tolerance (ET) is a critical event in protecting neurons against excessive immune responses when microglia are administered two consecutive lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenges. However, the intrinsic mechanisms of microglia shape ET programs and protect neurons remain unclear. This study aimed to determine whether extracellular autocrine cascades or intracellular signaling pathways are involved in ET microglia-mediated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) reduction and neuroprotection. Neuron-glia cultures composed of astroglia, neurons, and microglia were performed in different conditions: with or without serum or LPS-binding proteins (LBP), along with an induction approach of ET. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results revealed that LPS induced TNF-α tolerance of microglia in an LBP-dependent manner. Furthermore, we determined whether the early pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by LPS might contribute to the development of microglial ET. Our data showed that the neutralization of TNF-α using an anti-TNF-α antibody had no change in the TNF-α tolerance of microglia during the ET challenge. Furthermore, pre-incubation of TNF-α, interleukin-1 beta, and prostaglandin E2 failed to induce any TNF-α tolerance in microglia after LPS treatment. Moreover, using three specific chemical inhibitors that respectively blocked the activities of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) namely p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase and extracellular signal-related kinases revealed that inhibition of p38 MAPK by SB203580 disrupted the tolerated microglia-mediated TNF-α reduction and neuroprotection. In summary, our findings demonstrated that the LPS pre-treatment immediately programmed the microglial ET to prevent endotoxin-induced TNF-α production and neuronal damage through the intracellular p38 MAPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsing-Chun Kuo
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Research Fellow, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Shiou-Lan Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University (KMU), Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Chen Chiu
- National Laboratory Animal Center (NLAC), NARLabs, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kam-Fai Lee
- Department of Pathology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, 61363, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hsien Chu
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 3F, No.367, Sheng-Li Rd, North District, Tainan City 704, Taiwan.
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Amaral IM, Scheffauer L, Hofer A, El Rawas R. Protein kinases in natural versus drug reward. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 221:173472. [PMID: 36244528 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Natural and drug rewards act on the same neural pathway, the mesolimbic dopaminergic system. In brain regions such as the nucleus accumbens and ventral tegmental area, drugs of abuse-induced stimulation of signaling pathways can lead to synaptic reshaping within this system. This is believed to be underlying the maladaptive alterations in behaviors associated with addiction. In this review, we discuss animal studies disclosing the implication of several protein kinases, namely protein kinase A (PKA), extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), p38 MAPK, and calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII), in reward-related brain regions in drug and natural reward. Furthermore, we refer to studies that helped pave the way toward a better understanding of the neurobiology underlying non-drug and drug reward through genetic deletion or brain region-specific pharmacological inhibition of these kinases. Whereas the role of kinases in drug reward has been extensively studied, their implication in natural reward, such as positive social interaction, is less investigated. Discovering molecular candidates, recruited specifically by drug versus natural rewards, can promote the identification of novel targets for the pharmacological treatment of addiction with less off-target effects and being effective when used combined with behavioral-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês M Amaral
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Laura Scheffauer
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Alex Hofer
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Rana El Rawas
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
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5
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QSAR modelling, molecular docking studies and ADMET predictions of polysubstituted pyridinylimidazoles as dual inhibitors of JNK3 and p38α MAPK. J Mol Struct 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.133504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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6
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Beamer E, Corrêa SAL. The p38 MAPK-MK2 Signaling Axis as a Critical Link Between Inflammation and Synaptic Transmission. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:635636. [PMID: 33585492 PMCID: PMC7876405 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.635636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
p38 is a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), that responds primarily to stress stimuli. p38 has a number of targets for phosphorylation, including MAPK-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2). MK2 primarily functions as a master regulator of RNA-binding proteins, indirectly controlling gene expression at the level of translation. The role of MK2 in regulating the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines downstream of inflammation and cellular stress is well-described. A significant amount of evidence, however, now points to a role for the p38MAPK-MK2 signaling axis in mediating synaptic plasticity through control of AMPA receptor trafficking and the morphology of dendritic spines. These processes are mediated through control of cytoskeletal dynamics via the activation of cofilin-1 and possibly control of the expression of Arc/Arg3.1. There is evidence that MK2 is necessary for group I metabotropic glutamate receptors long-term depression (mGluR-LTD). Disruption of this signaling may play an important role in mediating cognitive dysfunction in neurological disorders such as fragile X syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease. To date, the role of neuronal MK2 mediating synaptic plasticity in response to inflammatory stimuli has not yet been investigated. In immune cells, it is clear that MK2 is phosphorylated following activation of a broad range of cell surface receptors for cytokines and other inflammatory mediators. We propose that neuronal MK2 may be an important player in the link between inflammatory states and dysregulation of synaptic plasticity underlying cognitive functions. Finally, we discuss the potential of the p38MAPK-MK2 signaling axis as target for therapeutic intervention in a number of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Beamer
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sonia A L Corrêa
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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7
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Liu SC, Zhang M, Gan P, Yu HF, Ding CF, Zhang RP, He ZY, Hu WY. Wip1 phosphatase deficiency impairs spatial learning and memory. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 533:1309-1314. [PMID: 33051059 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Spatial learning and memory are typically assessed to evaluate hippocampus-dependent cognitive and memory functions in vivo. Protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation by kinases and phosphatases play critical roles in spatial learning and memory. Here we report that the Wip1 phosphatase is essential for spatial learning, with knockout mice lacking Wip1 phosphatase exhibiting dysfunctional spatial cognition. Aberrant phosphorylation of the Wip1 substrates p38, ATM, and p53 were observed in the hippocampi of Wip1-/- mice, but only p38 inhibition reversed impairments in long-term potentiation in Wip1-knockout mice. p38 inhibition consistently ameliorated the spatial learning dysfunction caused by Wip1 deficiency. Our results demonstrate that deletion of Wip1 phosphatase impairs hippocampus-dependent spatial learning and memory, with aberrant downstream p38 phosphorylation involved in this process and providing a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Cheng Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650228, China; Second Department of Medical Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650228, China
| | - Ping Gan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Hao-Fei Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Cai-Feng Ding
- School of Pharmaceutical Science & Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Rong-Ping Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Zhi-Yong He
- The Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650228, China.
| | - Wei-Yan Hu
- The Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650228, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science & Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China.
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8
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Asih PR, Prikas E, Stefanoska K, Tan ARP, Ahel HI, Ittner A. Functions of p38 MAP Kinases in the Central Nervous System. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:570586. [PMID: 33013322 PMCID: PMC7509416 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.570586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases are a central component in signaling networks in a multitude of mammalian cell types. This review covers recent advances on specific functions of p38 MAP kinases in cells of the central nervous system. Unique and specific functions of the four mammalian p38 kinases are found in all major cell types in the brain. Mechanisms of p38 activation and downstream phosphorylation substrates in these different contexts are outlined and how they contribute to functions of p38 in physiological and under disease conditions. Results in different model organisms demonstrated that p38 kinases are involved in cognitive functions, including functions related to anxiety, addiction behavior, neurotoxicity, neurodegeneration, and decision making. Finally, the role of p38 kinases in psychiatric and neurological conditions and the current progress on therapeutic inhibitors targeting p38 kinases are covered and implicate p38 kinases in a multitude of CNS-related physiological and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prita R Asih
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emmanuel Prikas
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kristie Stefanoska
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amanda R P Tan
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Holly I Ahel
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Arne Ittner
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Falcicchia C, Tozzi F, Arancio O, Watterson DM, Origlia N. Involvement of p38 MAPK in Synaptic Function and Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165624. [PMID: 32781522 PMCID: PMC7460549 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have revealed a central role of p38 MAPK in neuronal plasticity and the regulation of long-term changes in synaptic efficacy, such as long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). However, p38 MAPK is classically known as a responsive element to stress stimuli, including neuroinflammation. Specific to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), several studies have shown that the p38 MAPK cascade is activated either in response to the Aβ peptide or in the presence of tauopathies. Here, we describe the role of p38 MAPK in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and its implication in an animal model of neurodegeneration. In particular, recent evidence suggests the p38 MAPK α isoform as a potential neurotherapeutic target, and specific inhibitors have been developed and have proven to be effective in ameliorating synaptic and memory deficits in AD mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Falcicchia
- Institute of Neuroscience, Italian National Research Council, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Francesca Tozzi
- Bio@SNS laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA;
| | | | - Nicola Origlia
- Institute of Neuroscience, Italian National Research Council, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-3153193
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Germann UA, Alam JJ. P38α MAPK Signaling-A Robust Therapeutic Target for Rab5-Mediated Neurodegenerative Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5485. [PMID: 32751991 PMCID: PMC7432772 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Multifactorial pathologies, involving one or more aggregated protein(s) and neuroinflammation are common in major neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. This complexity of multiple pathogenic drivers is one potential explanation for the lack of success or, at best, the partial therapeutic effects, respectively, with approaches that have targeted one specific driver, e.g., amyloid-beta, in Alzheimer's disease. Since the endosome-associated protein Rab5 appears to be a convergence point for many, if not all the most prominent pathogenic drivers, it has emerged as a major therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disease. Further, since the alpha isoform of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38α) is a major regulator of Rab5 activity and its effectors, a biology that is distinct from the classical nuclear targets of p38 signaling, brain-penetrant selective p38α kinase inhibitors provide the opportunity for significant therapeutic advances in neurogenerative disease through normalizing dysregulated Rab5 activity. In this review, we provide a brief summary of the role of Rab5 in the cell and its association with neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis. We then discuss the connection between Rab5 and p38α and summarize the evidence that through modulating Rab5 activity there are therapeutic opportunities in neurodegenerative diseases for p38α kinase inhibitors.
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El Rawas R, Amaral IM, Hofer A. Is p38 MAPK Associated to Drugs of Abuse-Induced Abnormal Behaviors? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4833. [PMID: 32650599 PMCID: PMC7402127 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The family members of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) mediate a wide variety of cellular behaviors in response to extracellular stimuli. p38 MAPKs are key signaling molecules in cellular responses to external stresses and regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Some studies have suggested that p38 MAPK in the region of the nucleus accumbens is involved in abnormal behavioral responses induced by drugs of abuse. In this review, we discuss the role of the p38 MAPK in the rewarding effects of drugs of abuse. We also summarize the implication of p38 MAPK in stress, anxiety, and depression. We opine that p38 MAPK activation is more closely associated to stress-induced aversive responses rather than drug effects per se, in particular cocaine. p38 MAPK is only involved in cocaine reward, predominantly when promoted by stress. Downstream substrates of p38 that may contribute to the p38 MAPK associated-behavioral responses are proposed. Finally, we suggest p38 MAPK inhibitors as possible therapeutic interventions against stress-related disorders by potentially increasing resilience against stress and addiction relapse induced by adverse experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana El Rawas
- Experimental Addiction Research, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Division of Psychiatry I, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (I.M.A.); (A.H.)
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12
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Effects of p38 MAPK signaling pathway on cognitive function and recovery of neuronal function after hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in newborn rats. J Clin Neurosci 2020; 78:365-370. [PMID: 32360159 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2020.04.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
To explore the effects of p38 MAPK signaling pathway on cognitive function and recovery of neuronal function after hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBI) in newborn rats. Seventy-two healthy SPF grade SD newborn rats were randomly and equally divided into Normal group (healthy rats) and Sham group (rats underwent sham operation), Model group (HIBI model rats), p38 MAPK Inhibitor group (HIBI model rats treated with p38 MAPK inhibitor) and p38 MAPK Activator group (HIBI model rats treated with p38 MAPK activator). On postnatal day 28, Morris water maze, tail suspension test and inclined plane test were conducted on rats in each group. Twenty-four hours after modeling, the expression of p-p38 MAPK protein and apoptosis related genes in rat hippocampal tissues was detected by TUNEL staining, qRT-PCR and Western blot. Compared with Normal group, escape latency and inclined plane test time were prolonged, the number of passing through the platform and tail suspension time were reduced (all P < 0.05); Bax and Caspase-3 mRNA and protein expression levels and p-p38 MAPK protein level were increased, Bcl-2 mRNA level was decreased, and neuronal apoptosis proportion was increased in Model group (all P < 0.05). Compared with Model group, the above indicators showed reversed and enhanced trends in p38 MAPK Inhibitor and p38 MAPK Activator groups, respectively (all P < 0.05). Inhibition of p38 MAPK signaling pathway can effectively improve the learning and memory ability and motor function of newborn rats with HIBI, and reduce neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampal tissues, thereby promoting neuronal recovery.
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13
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Gee MS, Son SH, Jeon SH, Do J, Kim N, Ju YJ, Lee SJ, Chung EK, Inn KS, Kim NJ, Lee JK. A selective p38α/β MAPK inhibitor alleviates neuropathology and cognitive impairment, and modulates microglia function in 5XFAD mouse. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2020; 12:45. [PMID: 32317025 PMCID: PMC7175487 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-020-00617-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Chronic neuroinflammation, aggressive amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, neuronal cell loss, and cognitive impairment are pathological presentations of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Therefore, resolution of neuroinflammation and inhibition of Aβ-driven pathology have been suggested to be important strategies for AD therapy. Previous efforts to prevent AD progression have identified p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) as a promising target for AD therapy. Recent studies showed pharmacological inhibition of p38α MAPK improved memory impairment in AD mouse models. Methods In this study, we used an AD mouse model, 5XFAD, to explore the therapeutic potential of NJK14047 which is a novel, selective p38α/β MAPK inhibitor. The mice were injected with 2.5 mg/kg NJK14047 or vehicle every other day for 3 months. Morris water maze task and histological imaging analysis were performed. Protein and mRNA expression levels were measured using immunoblotting and qRT-PCR, respectively. In vitro studies were conducted to measure the cytotoxicity of microglia- and astrocyte-conditioned medium on primary neurons using the MTT assay and TUNEL assay. Results NJK14047 treatment downregulated phospho-p38 MAPK levels, decreased the amount of Aβ deposits, and reduced spatial learning memory loss in 9-month-old 5XFAD mice. While the pro-inflammatory conditions were decreased, the expression of alternatively activated microglial markers and microglial phagocytic receptors was increased. Furthermore, NJK14047 treatment reduced the number of degenerating neurons labeled with Fluoro-Jade B in the brains of 5XFAD mice. The neuroprotective effect of NJK14047 was further confirmed by in vitro studies. Conclusion Taken together, a selective p38α/β MAPK inhibitor NJK14047 successfully showed therapeutic effects for AD in 5XFAD mice. Based on our data, p38 MAPK inhibition is a potential strategy for AD therapy, suggesting NJK14047 as one of the promising candidates for AD therapeutics targeting p38 MAPKs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Sung Gee
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hwan Son
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Ho Jeon
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jimin Do
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Namkwon Kim
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Joo Ju
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jin Lee
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Kyoung Chung
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Inn
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Nam-Jung Kim
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jong Kil Lee
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Iba M, Kim C, Florio J, Mante M, Adame A, Rockenstein E, Kwon S, Rissman R, Masliah E. Role of Alterations in Protein Kinase p38γ in the Pathogenesis of the Synaptic Pathology in Dementia With Lewy Bodies and α-Synuclein Transgenic Models. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:286. [PMID: 32296304 PMCID: PMC7138105 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive accumulation of the pre-synaptic protein α-synuclein (α-syn) has been strongly associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders of the aging population such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy. While the precise mechanisms are not fully understood, alterations in kinase pathways including that of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38 have been proposed to play a role. In AD, p38α activation has been linked to neuro-inflammation while alterations in p38γ have been associated with tau phosphorylation. Although p38 has been studied in AD, less is known about its role in DLB/PD and other α-synucleinopathies. For this purpose, we investigated the expression of the p38 family in brains from α-syn overexpressing transgenic mice (α-syn Tg: Line 61) and patients with DLB/PD. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that in healthy human controls and non-Tg mice, p38α associated with neurons and astroglial cells and p38γ localized to pre-synaptic terminals. In DLB and α-syn Tg brains, however, p38α levels were increased in astroglial cells while p38γ immunostaining was redistributed from the synaptic terminals to the neuronal cell bodies. Double immunolabeling further showed that p38γ colocalized with α-syn aggregates in DLB patients, and immunoblot and qPCR analysis confirmed the increased levels of p38α and p38γ. α1-syntrophin, a synaptic target of p38γ, was present in the neuropil and some neuronal cell bodies in human controls and non-Tg mice. In DLB and and Tg mice, however, α1-syntrophin was decreased in the neuropil and instead colocalized with α-syn in intra-neuronal inclusions. In agreement with these findings, in vitro studies showed that α-syn co-immunoprecipitates with p38γ, but not p38α. These results suggest that α-syn might interfere with the p38γ pathway and play a role in the mechanisms of synaptic dysfunction in DLB/PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiyo Iba
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Molecular Neuropathology Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Changyoun Kim
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Molecular Neuropathology Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jazmin Florio
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Michael Mante
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Anthony Adame
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Edward Rockenstein
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Somin Kwon
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Molecular Neuropathology Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Robert Rissman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Eliezer Masliah
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Molecular Neuropathology Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Division of Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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15
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Inhibition of cytochrome P450c17 reduces spinal astrocyte activation in a mouse model of neuropathic pain via regulation of p38 MAPK phosphorylation. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 118:109299. [PMID: 31387001 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
We have recently demonstrated that the neurosteroid-metabolizing enzyme, cytochrome P450c17 is increased in spinal astrocytes contributing to the development of mechanical allodynia in chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic mice. However, the mechanisms by which spinal P450c17 modulates pathological changes in astrocytes remain unclear. In this study we investigated whether P450c17 modulates astrocyte activation and whether this process is mediated by spinal p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation ultimately leading to the development of mechanical allodynia in CCI mice. Sciatic nerve injury induced a significant increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression in the superficial dorsal horn (SDH, laminae I-II) and nucleus proprius (NP, laminae III-IV) regions of the spinal cord dorsal horn. Repeated daily (from days 0-3 post-surgery) intrathecal administration of the P450c17 inhibitor, ketoconazole (10 nmol) significantly inhibited the CCI-induced increase in GFAP-immunoreactivity, but had no effect on the CCI-induced increase in Iba-1-immunoreactivity. In addition, intrathecal administration of ketoconazole significantly inhibited the CCI-induced increase in p38 phosphorylation, while the levels of ERK and JNK phosphorylation remained unchanged. The CCI-induced development of mechanical allodynia was attenuated by administration of either ketoconazole (10 nmol) or the p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580 (5 nmol). Administration of a sub-effective dose of SB203580 (0.5 nmol) potentiated the pharmacological effect of ketoconazole (1 nmol) on spinal GFAP-immunostaining, as well as, the development of mechanical allodynia following CCI. Collectively these data suggest that spinal P450c17 activates astrocytes via p38 phosphorylation, ultimately leading to the development of mechanical allodynia in a model of peripheral neuropathy.
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16
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Fang C, Wu B, Le NTT, Imberdis T, Mercer RCC, Harris DA. Prions activate a p38 MAPK synaptotoxic signaling pathway. PLoS Pathog 2018; 14:e1007283. [PMID: 30235355 PMCID: PMC6147624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic degeneration is one of the earliest pathological correlates of prion disease, and it is a major determinant of the progression of clinical symptoms. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying prion synaptotoxicity are poorly understood. Previously, we described an experimental system in which treatment of cultured hippocampal neurons with purified PrPSc, the infectious form of the prion protein, induces rapid retraction of dendritic spines, an effect that is entirely dependent on expression of endogenous PrPC by the target neurons. Here, we use this system to dissect pharmacologically the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. We show that PrPSc initiates a stepwise synaptotoxic signaling cascade that includes activation of NMDA receptors, calcium influx, stimulation of p38 MAPK and several downstream kinases, and collapse of the actin cytoskeleton within dendritic spines. Synaptic degeneration is restricted to excitatory synapses, spares presynaptic structures, and results in decrements in functional synaptic transmission. Pharmacological inhibition of any one of the steps in the signaling cascade, as well as expression of a dominant-negative form of p38 MAPK, block PrPSc-induced spine degeneration. Moreover, p38 MAPK inhibitors actually reverse the degenerative process after it has already begun. We also show that, while PrPC mediates the synaptotoxic effects of both PrPSc and the Alzheimer’s Aβ peptide in this system, the two species activate distinct signaling pathways. Taken together, our results provide powerful insights into the biology of prion neurotoxicity, they identify new, druggable therapeutic targets, and they allow comparison of prion synaptotoxic pathways with those involved in other neurodegenerative diseases. Prion diseases are a group of fatal neurodegenerative disorders that includes Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and kuru in humans, and bovine spongiform encephalopathy in cattle. The infectious agent, or prion, that transmits these diseases is a naked protein molecule, the prion protein (PrP), which is an altered form of a normal, cellular protein. Although a great deal is known about how prions propagate themselves and transmit infection, the process by which they actually cause neurons to degenerate has remained mysterious. Here, we have used a specialized neuronal culture system to dissect the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which prions damage synapses, the structures that connect nerve cells and that play a crucial role in learning, memory, and neurological disease. Our results define a stepwise molecular pathway underlying prion synaptic toxicity, which involves activation of glutamate neurotransmitter receptors, influx of calcium ions into the neuron, and stimulation of specific mitogen-activated protein kinases, which attach phosphate groups to proteins to regulate their activity. We demonstrate that specific drugs, as well as a dominant-negative kinase mutant, block these steps and thereby prevent the synaptic degeneration produced by prions. Our results provide new insights into the pathogenesis of prion diseases, they uncover new drug targets for treating these diseases, and they allow us to compare prion diseases to other, more common neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Fang
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA, United States of America
| | - Bei Wu
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA, United States of America
| | - Nhat T. T. Le
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA, United States of America
| | - Thibaut Imberdis
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA, United States of America
| | - Robert C. C. Mercer
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA, United States of America
| | - David A. Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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17
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Neuronal p38α mediates synaptic and cognitive dysfunction in an Alzheimer's mouse model by controlling β-amyloid production. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45306. [PMID: 28361984 PMCID: PMC5374488 DOI: 10.1038/srep45306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a severe and progressive neuronal loss leading to cognitive dysfunctions. Previous reports, based on the use of chemical inhibitors, have connected the stress kinase p38α to neuroinflammation, neuronal death and synaptic dysfunction. To explore the specific role of neuronal p38α signalling in the appearance of pathological symptoms, we have generated mice that combine expression of the 5XFAD transgenes to induce AD symptoms with the downregulation of p38α only in neurons (5XFAD/p38α∆-N). We found that the neuronal-specific deletion of p38α improves the memory loss and long-term potentiation impairment induced by 5XFAD transgenes. Furthermore, 5XFAD/p38α∆-N mice display reduced amyloid-β accumulation, improved neurogenesis, and important changes in brain cytokine expression compared with 5XFAD mice. Our results implicate neuronal p38α signalling in the synaptic plasticity dysfunction and memory impairment observed in 5XFAD mice, by regulating both amyloid-β deposition in the brain and the relay of this accumulation to mount an inflammatory response, which leads to the cognitive deficits.
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18
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Han D, Scott EL, Dong Y, Raz L, Wang R, Zhang Q. Attenuation of mitochondrial and nuclear p38α signaling: a novel mechanism of estrogen neuroprotection in cerebral ischemia. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 400:21-31. [PMID: 25462588 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2014] [Revised: 11/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is a pro-apoptotic and pro-inflammatory protein that is activated in response to cellular stress. While p38 is known to be activated in response to cerebral ischemia, the precise role of p38 and its isoforms in ischemia-induced neuronal apoptosis remains unclear. In the current study, we examined the differential activation and functional roles of p38α and p38β MAPK isoforms in short-term ovariectomized female rats treated with either the neuroprotective ovarian hormone 17beta-estradiol (E2) or placebo in a model of global cerebral ischemia (GCI). GCI induced biphasic activation of total p38 in the hippocampal CA1, with peaks at 30 min and 1 day after 10-min ischemia-reperfusion. Further study demonstrated that activated p38α, but not p38β, translocated to the nucleus 30 min and 3 h post reperfusion, and that this event coincided with increased phosphorylation of activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2), a p38 target protein. Intriguingly, activated p38α was also enhanced in mitochondrial fractions of CA1 neurons 1 day after GCI, and there was loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as enhanced cytochrome c release and caspase-3 cleavage at 2 days post GCI. Importantly, E2 prevented the biphasic activation of p38, as well as both nuclear and mitochondrial translocation of p38α after GCI, and these findings correlated with attenuation of mitochondrial dysfunction and delayed neuronal cell death in the hippocampal CA1. Furthermore, administration of a p38 inhibitor was able to mimic the neuroprotective effects of E2 in the hippocampal CA1 region by preventing nuclear and mitochondrial translocation of p38α, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, and neuronal apoptosis. As a whole, this study suggests that changes in subcellular localization of the activated p38α isoform are required for neuronal apoptosis following GCI, and that E2 exerts robust neuroprotection, in part, through dual inhibition of activation and subcellular trafficking of p38α.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Han
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical College, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Erin L Scott
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Yan Dong
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Limor Raz
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Ruimin Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Neurobiology Institute of Medical Research Centre, Hebei United University, Tangshan, Hebei 06300, China
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
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19
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Moon JY, Roh DH, Yoon SY, Choi SR, Kwon SG, Choi HS, Kang SY, Han HJ, Beitz AJ, Oh SB, Lee JH. σ1 receptors activate astrocytes via p38 MAPK phosphorylation leading to the development of mechanical allodynia in a mouse model of neuropathic pain. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:5881-97. [PMID: 25158784 PMCID: PMC4290724 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Revised: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Spinal astrocytes have emerged as important mechanistic contributors to the genesis of mechanical allodynia (MA) in neuropathic pain. We recently demonstrated that the spinal sigma non-opioid intracellular receptor 1 (σ1 receptor) modulates p38 MAPK phosphorylation (p-p38), which plays a critical role in the induction of MA in neuropathic rats. However, the histological and physiological relationships among σ1, p-p38 and astrocyte activation is unclear. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We investigated: (i) the precise location of σ1 receptors and p-p38 in spinal dorsal horn; (ii) whether the inhibition of σ1 receptors or p38 modulates chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced astrocyte activation; and (iii) whether this modulation of astrocyte activity is associated with MA development in CCI mice. KEY RESULTS The expression of σ1 receptors was significantly increased in astrocytes on day 3 following CCI surgery. Sustained intrathecal treatment with the σ1 antagonist, BD-1047, attenuated CCI-induced increase in GFAP-immunoreactive astrocytes, and the treatment combined with fluorocitrate, an astrocyte metabolic inhibitor, synergistically reduced the development of MA, but not thermal hyperalgesia. The number of p-p38-ir astrocytes and neurons, but not microglia was significantly increased. Interestingly, intrathecal BD-1047 attenuated the expression of p-p38 selectively in astrocytes but not in neurons. Moreover, intrathecal treatment with a p38 inhibitor attenuated the GFAP expression, and this treatment combined with fluorocitrate synergistically blocked the induction of MA. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Spinal σ1 receptors are localized in astrocytes and blockade of σ1 receptors inhibits the pathological activation of astrocytes via modulation of p-p38, which ultimately prevents the development of MA in neuropathic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Y Moon
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National UniversitySeoul, Korea
| | - D H Roh
- Department of Maxillofacial Tissue Regeneration, Kyung Hee University School of DentistrySeoul, Korea
| | - S Y Yoon
- Laboratory of Molecular Signal Transduction, Center for Neural Science, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST)Seoul, Korea
| | - S R Choi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National UniversitySeoul, Korea
| | - S G Kwon
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National UniversitySeoul, Korea
| | - H S Choi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National UniversitySeoul, Korea
| | - S Y Kang
- Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Meridian Research Group, Medical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental MedicineDaejeon, Korea
| | - H J Han
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National UniversitySeoul, Korea
| | - A J Beitz
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of MinnesotaSt Paul, MN, USA
| | - S B Oh
- Pain Cognitive Function Research Center, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences College of Natural Sciences, Dental Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology and Physiology, School of Dentistry, Seoul National UniversitySeoul, Korea
| | - J H Lee
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National UniversitySeoul, Korea
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20
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Liu H, Yanamandala M, Lee TC, Kim JK. Mitochondrial p38β and manganese superoxide dismutase interaction mediated by estrogen in cardiomyocytes. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85272. [PMID: 24465521 PMCID: PMC3899003 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims While etiology behind the observed acceleration of ischemic heart disease in postmenopausal women is poorly understood, collective scientific data suggest cardioprotective effects of the endogenous female sex hormone, estrogen. We have previously shown that 17β-estradiol (E2) protects cardiomyocytes exposed to hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) by inhibiting p38α - p53 signaling in apoptosis and activating pro-survival p38β mitogen activated protein kinase (p38β MAPK), leading to suppression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) post H/R. However, little is known about the mechanism behind the antioxidant actions of E2-dependent p38β. The aim of this study is to determine whether the cytoprotection by estrogen involves regulation of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), a major mitochondrial ROS scavenging enzyme, via cardiac p38β. Methods and Results We identified mitochondrial p38β by immunocytochemistry and by immunoblotting in mitochondria isolated from neonatal cardiomyocytes of Sprague-Dawley rats. E2 facilitated the mitochondrial localization of the active form of the kinase, phosphorylated p38β (p-p38β). E2 also reduced the H/R-induced mitochondrial membrane potential decline, augmented the MnSOD activity and suppressed anion superoxide generation, while the dismutase protein expression remained unaltered. Co-immunoprecipitation studies showed physical association between MnSOD and p38β. p38β phosphorylated MnSOD in an E2-dependent manner in in-vitro kinase assays. Conclusion This work demonstrates for the first time a mitochondrial pool of active p38β and E2-mediated phosphorylation of MnSOD by the kinase. The results shed light on the mechanism behind the cytoprotective actions of E2 in cardiomyocytes under oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
- School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Mounica Yanamandala
- School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Tiffany C. Lee
- School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Jin Kyung Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
- School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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21
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The roles of p38 MAPK/MSK1 signaling pathway in the neuroprotection of hypoxic postconditioning against transient global cerebral ischemia in adult rats. Mol Neurobiol 2013; 49:1338-49. [PMID: 24352802 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-013-8611-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Postconditioning has regenerated interest as a mechanical intervention against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury, but its molecular mechanisms remain unknown. We previously reported that hypoxic postconditioning (HPC) ameliorated neuronal death induced by transient global cerebral ischemia (tGCI) in hippocampal CA1 subregion of adult rats. This study tested the hypothesis that p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK)/mitogen- and stress-response kinase 1 (MSK1) signaling pathway plays a role in the HPC-induced neuroprotection. Male Wistar rats were subjected to 10 min ischemia induced by applying the four-vessel occlusion method. HPC with 120 min was applied at 24 h after reperfusion. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot were used to detect the expression of phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and MSK1, as well as cleaved caspase-3. We found that HPC induced a significant increase of phosphorylated p38 MAPK and MSK1 in neurons of hippocampal CA1 region and a significant decrease in glial cells after tGCI as well. Furthermore, HPC attenuated caspase-3 cleavation triggered by tGCI in CA1 region. Moreover, p38 MAPK inhibition by SB203580 significantly decreased the phosphorylation of MSK1, increased cleaved caspase-3 expression, and abolished the neuroprotection of HPC. These findings suggested that p38 MAPK/MSK1 signaling axis contributed to HPC-mediated neuroprotection against tGCI, at least in part, by regulating the activation of caspase-3.
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22
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Beta-like importins mediate the nuclear translocation of mitogen-activated protein kinases. Mol Cell Biol 2013; 34:259-70. [PMID: 24216760 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00799-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid nuclear translocation of signaling proteins upon stimulation is important for the regulation of de novo gene expression. We have studied the stimulated nuclear shuttling of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and found that they translocate into the nucleus in a Ran-dependent, but NLS- or NTS-independent, manner, unrelated to their catalytic activity. We show that this translocation involves three β-like importins, importins 3, 7, and 9 (Imp3/7/9). Knockdown of these importins inhibits the nuclear translocation of the MAPKs and, thereby, activation of their transcription factor targets. We further demonstrate that the translocation requires the stimulated formation of heterotrimers composed of Imp3/Imp7/MAPK or Imp3/Imp9/MAPK. JNK1/2 and p38α/β bind to either Imp7 or Imp9 upon stimulated posttranslational modification of the two Imps, while Imp3 joins the complex after its stimulation-induced phosphorylation. Once formed, these heterotrimers move to the nuclear envelope, where importin 3 remains, while importins 7 and 9 escort the MAPKs into the nucleus. These results suggest that β-like importins are central mediators of stimulated nuclear translocation of signaling proteins and therefore add a central level of regulation to stimulated transcription.
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23
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Morfini GA, Bosco DA, Brown H, Gatto R, Kaminska A, Song Y, Molla L, Baker L, Marangoni MN, Berth S, Tavassoli E, Bagnato C, Tiwari A, Hayward LJ, Pigino GF, Watterson DM, Huang CF, Banker G, Brown RH, Brady ST. Inhibition of fast axonal transport by pathogenic SOD1 involves activation of p38 MAP kinase. PLoS One 2013; 8:e65235. [PMID: 23776455 PMCID: PMC3680447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0065235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dying-back degeneration of motor neuron axons represents an established feature of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) associated with superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mutations, but axon-autonomous effects of pathogenic SOD1 remained undefined. Characteristics of motor neurons affected in FALS include abnormal kinase activation, aberrant neurofilament phosphorylation, and fast axonal transport (FAT) deficits, but functional relationships among these pathogenic events were unclear. Experiments in isolated squid axoplasm reveal that FALS-related SOD1 mutant polypeptides inhibit FAT through a mechanism involving a p38 mitogen activated protein kinase pathway. Mutant SOD1 activated neuronal p38 in mouse spinal cord, neuroblastoma cells and squid axoplasm. Active p38 MAP kinase phosphorylated kinesin-1, and this phosphorylation event inhibited kinesin-1. Finally, vesicle motility assays revealed previously unrecognized, isoform-specific effects of p38 on FAT. Axon-autonomous activation of the p38 pathway represents a novel gain of toxic function for FALS-linked SOD1 proteins consistent with the dying-back pattern of neurodegeneration characteristic of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo A. Morfini
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Daryl A. Bosco
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Hannah Brown
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rodolfo Gatto
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Agnieszka Kaminska
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Yuyu Song
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Linda Molla
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lisa Baker
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - M. Natalia Marangoni
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sarah Berth
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Ehsan Tavassoli
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Carolina Bagnato
- Department of Natural Sciences and Engineering. National University of Rio Negro, Rio Negro, Argentina
| | - Ashutosh Tiwari
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Lawrence J. Hayward
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Gustavo F. Pigino
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - D. Martin Watterson
- Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery and Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Biological Chemistry, Northwestern University, Chicago, IIllinois, United States of America
| | - Chun-Fang Huang
- The Jungers Center for Neurosciences Research, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Gary Banker
- The Jungers Center for Neurosciences Research, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Robert H. Brown
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Scott T. Brady
- Depart of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Ju X, Wen Y, Metzger D, Jung M. The role of p38 in mitochondrial respiration in male and female mice. Neurosci Lett 2013; 544:152-6. [PMID: 23603578 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2013.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Revised: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
p38 is a mitogen-activated protein kinase and mediates cell growth, cell differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. The aim of this study is to determine the extent to which p38 plays a role in maintaining mitochondrial respiration in male and female mice under a normal condition. To achieve this aim, we have generated transgenic mice that lack p38 in cerebellar Purkinje neurons by crossing Pcp2 (Purkinje cell protein 2)-Cre mice with p38(loxP/loxP) mice. Mitochondria from cerebellum were then isolated from the transgenic and wild-type mice to measure mitochondrial respiration using XF24 respirometer. The mRNA and protein expression of cytochrome c oxidase (COX) in cerebellum were also measured using RT-PCR and immunoblot methods. Separately, HT22 cells were used to determine the involvement of 17β-estradiol (E2) and COX in mitochondrial respiration. The genetic knockout of p38 in Purkinje neurons suppressed the mitochondrial respiration only in male mice and increased COX expression only in female mice. The inhibition of COX by sodium azide (SA) sharply suppressed mitochondrial respiration of HT22 cells in a manner that was protected by E2. These data suggest that p38 is required for the mitochondrial respiration of male mice. When p38 is below a normal level, females may maintain mitochondrial respiration through COX up-regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Ju
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107-2699, USA
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Onwuameze OE, Nam K, Epping EA, Wassink TH, Ziebell S, Andreasen NC, Ho BC. MAPK14 and CNR1 gene variant interactions: effects on brain volume deficits in schizophrenia patients with marijuana misuse. Psychol Med 2013; 43:619-631. [PMID: 22850347 PMCID: PMC3847818 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291712001559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent marijuana use is associated with increased risk for schizophrenia. We previously reported that marijuana misuse in conjunction with specific cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1) genetic variants (rs12720071-G-allele carriers) contributed to white-matter (WM) brain volume deficits in schizophrenia patients. In this study, we assessed the influence of another cannabinoid-related gene, mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), and potential MAPK14-CNR1 gene-gene interactions in conferring brain volume abnormalities among schizophrenia patients with marijuana abuse/dependence. MAPK14 encodes a member of the MAPK family involved in diverse cellular processes, including CNR1-induced apoptosis. METHOD We genotyped 235 schizophrenia patients on nine MAPK14 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (tSNPs). Approximately one quarter of the sample had marijuana abuse or dependence. Differential effects of MAPK14 tSNPs on brain volumes across patients with versus without marijuana abuse/dependence were examined using ANCOVA. RESULTS Of the MAPK14 tSNPs, only rs12199654 had significant genotype effects and genotype × marijuana misuse interaction effects on WM volumes. rs12199654-A homozygotes with marijuana abuse/dependence had significantly smaller total cerebral and lobar WM volumes. The effects of MAPK14 rs12199654 on WM volume deficits remained significant even after controlling for the CNR1 rs12720071 genotype. There were significant main effects of the MAPK14 CNR1 diplotype and diplotype × marijuana interaction on WM brain volumes, with both genetic variants having additive contributions to WM volume deficits only in patients with marijuana misuse. CONCLUSIONS Given that CNR1-induced apoptosis is preceded by increased MAPK phosphorylation, our study suggests that potential MAPK14-CNR1 gene-gene interactions may mediate brain morphometric features in schizophrenia patients with heavy marijuana use.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. E. Onwuameze
- Department of Psychiatry, Southern Illinois University Medical School, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - K.W. Nam
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - E. A. Epping
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - T. H. Wassink
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - S. Ziebell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - N. C. Andreasen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - B.-C. Ho
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Xing B, Bachstetter AD, Van Eldik LJ. Deficiency in p38β MAPK fails to inhibit cytokine production or protect neurons against inflammatory insult in in vitro and in vivo mouse models. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56852. [PMID: 23457629 PMCID: PMC3574114 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The p38 MAPK pathway plays a key role in regulating the production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNFα and IL-1β, in peripheral inflammatory disorders. There are four major isoforms of p38 MAPK (p38α, β, δ, γ), with p38α and p38β the targets of most p38 MAPK inhibitor drugs. Our previous studies demonstrated that the p38α MAPK isoform is an important contributor to stressor-induced proinflammatory cytokine up-regulation and neurotoxicity in the brain. However, the potential role of the p38β MAPK isoform in CNS proinflammatory cytokine overproduction and neurotoxicity is poorly understood. In the current studies, we used primary microglia from wild type (WT) and p38β knockout (KO) mice in co-culture with WT neurons, and measured proinflammatory cytokines and neuron death after LPS insult. We also measured neuroinflammatory responses in vivo in WT and p38β KO mice after administration of LPS by intraperitoneal or intracerebroventricular injection. WT and p38β KO microglia/neuron co-cultures showed similar levels of TNFα and IL-1β production in response to LPS treatment, and no differences in LPS-induced neurotoxicity. The in vitro results were confirmed in vivo, where levels of TNFα and IL-1β in the CNS were not significantly different between WT or p38β KO mice after LPS insult. Our results suggest that, similar to peripheral inflammation, p38α is critical but p38β MAPK is dispensable in the brain in regards to proinflammatory cytokine production and neurotoxicity induced by LPS inflammatory insult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xing
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Adam D. Bachstetter
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Linda J. Van Eldik
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Jung M, Metzger D. Purkinje-neuron-specific down-regulation of p38 protects motoric function from the repeated use of benzodiazepine. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/abb.2013.46a009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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The Role of p38 MAPK and Its Substrates in Neuronal Plasticity and Neurodegenerative Disease. JOURNAL OF SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION 2012; 2012:649079. [PMID: 22792454 PMCID: PMC3389708 DOI: 10.1155/2012/649079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A significant amount of evidence suggests that the p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling cascade plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity and in neurodegenerative diseases. In this review we will discuss the cellular localisation and activation of p38 MAPK and the recent advances on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of its substrates: MAPKAPK 2 (MK2) and tau protein. In particular we will focus our attention on the understanding of the p38 MAPK-MK2 and p38 MAPK-tau activation axis in controlling neuroinflammation, actin remodelling and tau hyperphosphorylation, processes that are thought to be involved in normal ageing as well as in neurodegenerative diseases. We will also give some insight into how elucidating the precise role of p38 MAPK-MK2 and p38 MAPK-tau signalling cascades may help to identify novel therapeutic targets to slow down the symptoms observed in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
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Guldal CG, Ahmad A, Korshunov A, Squatrito M, Awan A, Mainwaring LA, Bhatia B, Parathath SR, Nahle Z, Pfister S, Kenney AM. An essential role for p38 MAPK in cerebellar granule neuron precursor proliferation. Acta Neuropathol 2012; 123:573-86. [PMID: 22302101 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-012-0946-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Development of the cerebellum occurs postnatally and is marked by a rapid proliferation of cerebellar granule neuron precursors (CGNPs). CGNPs are the cells of origin for SHH-driven medulloblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor in children. Here, we investigated the role of ERK, JNK, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases in CGNP proliferation. We found high levels of p38α in proliferating CGNPs. Concomitantly, members of the p38 pathway, such as ASK1, MKK3 and ATF-2, were also elevated. Inhibition of the Shh pathway or CGNP proliferation blunts p38α levels, irrespective of Shh treatment. Strikingly, p38α levels were high in vivo in the external granule layer of the postnatal cerebellum, Shh-dependent mouse medulloblastomas and human medulloblastomas of the SHH subtype. Finally, knocking down p38α by short hairpin RNA-carrying lentiviruses as well as the pharmacologically inhibiting of its kinase activity caused a marked decrease in CGNP proliferation, underscoring its requirement for Shh-dependent proliferation in CGNPs. The inhibition of p38α also caused a decrease in Gli1 and N-myc transcript levels, consistent with reduced proliferation. These findings suggest p38 inhibition as a potential way to increase the efficacy of treatments available for malignancies associated with deregulated SHH signaling, such as basal cell carcinoma and medulloblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cemile G Guldal
- Departments of Neurological Surgery and Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA; Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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p38α and p38β mitogen-activated protein kinases determine cholinergic transdifferentiation of sympathetic neurons. J Neurosci 2011; 31:12059-67. [PMID: 21865449 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0448-11.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases are active in many neuronal populations in the peripheral and central nervous systems, little is known about the physiological functions of p38 in postmitotic neurons. We report that p38 activity determines in vitro and in vivo the switch from noradrenergic to cholinergic neurotransmission that occurs in sympathetic neurons on exposure to the neuropoietic cytokines CNTF and LIF. This transdifferentiation serves as a model for the plastic mechanisms that enable mature neurons to change some of their central functions without passing through the cell cycle. We demonstrate that in postmitotic neurons, p38 and STAT pathways are concurrently activated by neuropoietic cytokine treatment for at least 12 h overlapping with changes in neurotransmitter marker gene expression. Inhibition of p38 blocks the upregulation of the nuclear matrix protein Satb2 and of cholinergic markers by CNTF without affecting STAT3 phosphorylation. Conversely, overexpression of p38α or β in the absence of cytokines stimulates cholinergic marker expression. The neurotransmitter switch in vitro is impaired in neurons isolated from p38β(-/-) mice. Consistent with these in vitro results, a substantial loss of cells expressing cholinergic properties is observed in vivo in the stellate ganglion of mature mice deficient in the p38β isoform.
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Bruchas MR, Schindler AG, Shankar H, Messinger DI, Miyatake M, Land BB, Lemos JC, Hagan CE, Neumaier JF, Quintana A, Palmiter RD, Chavkin C. Selective p38α MAPK deletion in serotonergic neurons produces stress resilience in models of depression and addiction. Neuron 2011; 71:498-511. [PMID: 21835346 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2011.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Maladaptive responses to stress adversely affect human behavior, yet the signaling mechanisms underlying stress-responsive behaviors remain poorly understood. Using a conditional gene knockout approach, the α isoform of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was selectively inactivated by AAV1-Cre-recombinase infection in specific brain regions or by promoter-driven excision of p38α MAPK in serotonergic neurons (by Slc6a4-Cre or ePet1-Cre) or astrocytes (by Gfap-CreERT2). Social defeat stress produced social avoidance (a model of depression-like behaviors) and reinstatement of cocaine preference (a measure of addiction risk) in wild-type mice, but not in mice having p38α MAPK selectively deleted in serotonin-producing neurons of the dorsal raphe nucleus. Stress-induced activation of p38α MAPK translocated the serotonin transporter to the plasma membrane and increased the rate of transmitter uptake at serotonergic nerve terminals. These findings suggest that stress initiates a cascade of molecular and cellular events in which p38α MAPK induces a hyposerotonergic state underlying depression-like and drug-seeking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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Chlan-Fourney J, Zhao T, Walz W, Mousseau DD. The increased density of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase-immunoreactive microglia in the sensorimotor cortex of aged TgCRND8 mice is associated predominantly with smaller dense-core amyloid plaques. Eur J Neurosci 2011; 33:1433-44. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07597.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Alcohol withdrawal and brain injuries: beyond classical mechanisms. Molecules 2010; 15:4984-5011. [PMID: 20657404 PMCID: PMC6257660 DOI: 10.3390/molecules15074984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2010] [Revised: 07/15/2010] [Accepted: 07/19/2010] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Unmanaged sudden withdrawal from the excessive consumption of alcohol (ethanol) adversely alters neuronal integrity in vulnerable brain regions such as the cerebellum, hippocampus, or cortex. In addition to well known hyperexcitatory neurotransmissions, ethanol withdrawal (EW) provokes the intense generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of stress-responding protein kinases, which are the focus of this review article. EW also inflicts mitochondrial membranes/membrane potential, perturbs redox balance, and suppresses mitochondrial enzymes, all of which impair a fundamental function of mitochondria. Moreover, EW acts as an age-provoking stressor. The vulnerable age to EW stress is not necessarily the oldest age and varies depending upon the target molecule of EW. A major female sex steroid, 17β-estradiol (E2), interferes with the EW-induced alteration of oxidative signaling pathways and thereby protects neurons, mitochondria, and behaviors. The current review attempts to provide integrated information at the levels of oxidative signaling mechanisms by which EW provokes brain injuries and E2 protects against it.
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Jung ME, Ju X, Simpkins JW, Metzger DB, Yan LJ, Wen Y. Ethanol withdrawal acts as an age-specific stressor to activate cerebellar p38 kinase. Neurobiol Aging 2010; 32:2266-78. [PMID: 20122756 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2010.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2009] [Revised: 12/17/2009] [Accepted: 01/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether protein kinase p38 plays a role in the brain-aging changes associated with repeated ethanol withdrawal (EW). Ovariectomized young, middle-age and older rats, with or without 17β-estradiol (E2) implantation, received a 90-day ethanol with repeated withdrawal. They were tested for active pP38 expression in cerebellar Purkinje neurons and whole-cerebellar lysates using immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. They were also tested for the Rotarod task to determine the behavioral manifestation of cerebellar neuronal stress and for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial protein carbonyls to determine oxidative mechanisms. Middle-age EW rats showed higher levels of pP38-positive Purkinje neurons/cerebellar lysates, which coincided with increased mitochondrial protein oxidation than other diet/age groups. Exacerbated motor deficit due to age-EW combination also began at the middle-age. In comparison, ROS contents peaked in older EW rats. E2 treatment mitigated each of the EW effects to a different extent. Collectively, pP38 may mediate the brain-aging changes associated with pro-oxidant EW at vulnerable ages and in vulnerable neurons in a manner protected by estrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna E Jung
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Institute for Aging and Alzheimer's disease, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76107-2699, USA.
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Cao X, Rui L, Pennington PR, Chlan-Fourney J, Jiang Z, Wei Z, Li XM, Edmondson DE, Mousseau DD. Serine 209 resides within a putative p38(MAPK) consensus motif and regulates monoamine oxidase-A activity. J Neurochem 2009; 111:101-10. [PMID: 19650872 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06300.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade as well as the enzyme monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) have both been associated with oxidative stress. We observed that the specific inhibition of the p38(MAPK) protein [using either a chemical inhibitor or a dominant-negative p38(MAPK) clone] selectively induces MAO-A activity and MAO-A-sensitive toxicity in several neuronal cell lines, including primary cortical neurons. Over-expression of a constitutively active p38(MAPK) results in the phosphorylation of the MAO-A protein and inhibition of MAO-A activity. The MAO-A(Ser209Glu) phosphomimic - bearing a targeted substitution within a putative p38(MAPK) consensus motif - is neither active nor neurotoxic. In contrast, the MAO-A(Ser209Ala) variant (mimics dephosphorylation) does not associate with p38(MAPK), and is both very active and very toxic. Substitution of the homologous serine in the MAO-B isoform, i.e. Ser200, with either Glu or Ala does not affect the catalytic activity of the corresponding over-expressed proteins. These combined in vitro data strongly suggest a direct p38(MAPK)-dependent inhibition of MAO-A function. Based on published observations, this endogenous means of selectively regulating MAO-A function could provide for an adaptive response to oxidative stress associated with disorders as diverse as depression, reperfusion/ischemia, and the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Cao
- Cell Signalling Laboratory, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Cohen SB, Cheng TT, Chindalore V, Damjanov N, Burgos-Vargas R, Delora P, Zimany K, Travers H, Caulfield JP. Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of pamapimod, a p38 MAP kinase inhibitor, in a double-blind, methotrexate-controlled study of patients with active rheumatoid arthritis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 60:335-44. [PMID: 19180516 DOI: 10.1002/art.24266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy and safety of pamapimod (a selective inhibitor of the alpha-isoform of p38 MAP kinase) as monotherapy in comparison with methotrexate (MTX) treatment in adult patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS Patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups and received 12 weeks of double-blind treatment. One group received MTX (7.5 mg/week with planned escalation to 20 mg/week), and 3 groups received pamapimod (50, 150, or 300 mg) once daily. The primary efficacy end point was the proportion of patients meeting the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement criteria (achieving an ACR20 response) at 12 weeks. Secondary end points included ACR50 and ACR70 responses, change from baseline in the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28), categorical analyses of DAS28/European League Against Rheumatism response, and change from baseline in each parameter of the ACR core set of measures. Safety monitoring included recording of adverse events (AEs), laboratory testing, immunology assessments, administration of electrocardiograms, and assessment of vital signs. RESULTS Patients assigned to receive MTX and pamapimod had similar demographics and baseline characteristics. At week 12, fewer patients taking pamapimod had an ACR20 response (23%, 18%, and 31% in the 50-, 150-, and 300-mg groups, respectively) compared with patients taking MTX (45%). Secondary efficacy end points showed a similar pattern. AEs were typically characterized as mild and included infections, skin disorders, and dizziness. Pamapimod was generally well tolerated, but the 300-mg dose appeared to be more toxic than either the 2 lower doses or MTX. CONCLUSION The present results showed that pamapimod was not as effective as MTX in the treatment of active RA.
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Exercise can increase small heat shock proteins (sHSP) and pre- and post-synaptic proteins in the hippocampus. Brain Res 2008; 1249:191-201. [PMID: 19014914 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.10.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2008] [Revised: 09/25/2008] [Accepted: 10/17/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The molecular events mediating the complex interaction between exercise and cognition are not well-understood. Although many aspects of the signal transduction pathways mediate exercise induced improvement in cognition are elucidated, little is known about the molecular events interrelating physiological stress with synaptic proteins, following physical exercise. Small heat shock proteins (sHSP), HSP27 and alpha-B-crystallin are co-localized to synapses and astrocytes, but their role in the brain is not well-understood. We investigated whether their levels in the hippocampus were modulated by exercise, using a well characterized voluntary exercise paradigm. Since sHSP are known to be regulated by many intracellular signaling molecules in other cells types outside the brain, we investigated whether similar regulation may serve a role in the brain by measuring protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), pGSK3 and the mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinases, p38, phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (pERK) and phospho-c-Jun kinase (pJNK). Results demonstrated exercise-dependent increases in HSP27 and alpha-B-crystallin levels. We observed that increases in sHSP coincided with robust elevations in the presynaptic protein, SNAP25 and the post-synaptic proteins NR2b and PSD95. Exercise had a differential impact on kinases, significantly reducing pAkt and pERK, while increasing p38 MAPK. In conclusion, we demonstrate four early novel hippocampal responses to exercise that have not been identified previously: the induction of (1) sHSPs (2) the synaptic proteins SNAP-25, NR2b, and PSD-95, (3) the MAP kinase p38 and (4) the immediate early gene product MKP1. We speculate that sHSP may play a role in synaptic plasticity in response to exercise.
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38
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Hyperosmotic stress-induced caspase-3 activation is mediated by p38 MAPK in the hippocampus. Brain Res 2007; 1186:1-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2007] [Revised: 10/02/2007] [Accepted: 10/05/2007] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Fragoso G, Haines JD, Roberston J, Pedraza L, Mushynski WE, Almazan G. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase is required for central nervous system myelination. Glia 2007; 55:1531-41. [PMID: 17729284 DOI: 10.1002/glia.20567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The p38 MAPKs are a family of kinases that regulate a number of cellular functions including cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation. Here, we report that p38 regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation. Inhibition of p38 with PD169316 and SB203580 prevented accumulation of protein and mRNA of cell-stage specific markers characteristic of differentiated oligodendrocytes, including myelin basic protein, myelin-associated glycoprotein, and the glycosphingolipids, galactosylceramide and sulfatide. In addition, the cell cycle regulator p27(kip1) and the transcription factor Sox10 were also significantly reduced. Most significantly, p38 inhibitors completely and irreversibly blocked myelination of dorsal root ganglion neurons by oligodendrocytes and prevented the axolemmal organization of the axo-glial adhesion molecule Caspr. Our results suggest a role(s) for this kinase in key regulatory steps in the maturation of OLGs and initiation of myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Fragoso
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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p38 Mitogen-activated protein kinase regulates myelination. J Mol Neurosci 2007; 35:23-33. [PMID: 17994198 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-007-9011-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 09/15/2007] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase family is emerging as a crucial signaling molecule for a vast number of cellular functions including cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation. The function of p38 in myelination has only been recently addressed. Using pyridinyl imidazole-based p38 alpha/beta selective inhibitors, we have reported a critical role for this kinase in the regulation of myelination, specifically, in controlling the differentiation of Schwann cells, and oligodendrocytes, the myelinating glia of the peripheral and central nervous systems, respectively. These compounds inhibited the accumulation of myelin-cell-specific markers, including myelin-specific glycosphingolipids, myelin-associated glycoprotein, and myelin basic protein. More significantly, myelination of dorsal root ganglia neurons by oligodendrocytes was irreversibly blocked by p38 inhibitors. Our current studies are focusing on the molecular mechanisms by which p38 regulates oligodendrocyte and Schwann cell differentiation and its role in models of myelination and remyelination.
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Papp L, Vizi ES, Sperlágh B. P2X7 receptor mediated phosphorylation of p38MAP kinase in the hippocampus. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 355:568-74. [PMID: 17306762 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2007] [Accepted: 02/02/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to explore the effect of P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) activation on the expression of p38 MAP kinase (p38 MAPK) enzyme in hippocampal slices of wild-type (WT) and P2X7R(-/-) mice using the Western blot technique and to clarify its role in P2X7 receptor mediated [(3)H]glutamate release. ATP (1 mM) and the P2X7R agonist BzATP (100 microM) significantly increased p38 MAPK phosphorylation in WT mice, and these effects were absent in the hippocampal slices of P2X7R(-/-) mice. Both ATP- and BzATP-induced p38 MAPK phosphorylations were sensitive to the p38 MAP kinase inhibitor, SB203580 (1 microM). ATP elicited [(3)H]glutamate release from hippocampal slices, which was significantly attenuated by SB203580 (1 microM) but not by the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) inhibitor, PD098095 (10 microM). Consequently, we suggest that P2X7Rs and p38 MAPK are involved in the stimulatory effect of ATP on glutamate release in the hippocampal slices of WT mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilla Papp
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, H-1450 Budapest, Hungary.
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Brust TB, Cayabyab FS, Zhou N, MacVicar BA. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase contributes to adenosine A1 receptor-mediated synaptic depression in area CA1 of the rat hippocampus. J Neurosci 2006; 26:12427-38. [PMID: 17135404 PMCID: PMC6674914 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4052-06.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine is arguably the most potent and widespread presynaptic modulator in the CNS, yet adenosine receptor signal transduction pathways remain unresolved. Here, we demonstrate a novel mechanism in which adenosine A1 receptor stimulation leads to p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and contributes to the inhibition of synaptic transmission. Western blot analysis indicated that selective A1 receptor activation [with N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA)] resulted in rapid increases in phosphorylated p38 (phospho-p38) MAPK immunoreactivity in membrane fractions, and decreases in phospho-p38 MAPK in cytosolic fractions. Immunoprecipitation with a phospho-p38 MAPK antibody revealed constitutive association of this phosphoprotein with adenosine A1 receptors. Phospho-p38 MAPK activation by A1 receptor stimulation induced translocation of PP2a (protein phosphatase 2a) to the membrane. We then examined the actions of p38 MAPK activation in A1 receptor-mediated synaptic inhibition. Excitatory postsynaptic field potentials evoked in area CA1 of the rat hippocampus markedly decreased in response to adenosine (10 microM), the A1 receptor agonist CPA (40 nM), or a 5 min exposure to hypoxia. These inhibitory responses were mediated by A1 receptor activation because the selective antagonist DPCPX (8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine) (100 nM) prevented them. In agreement with the biochemical analysis, the selective p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 [4-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(4-methylsulfinylphenyl)-5-(4-pyridyl)-1H-imidazole] (25 microM) blocked the inhibitory actions of A1 receptor activation, whereas both the inactive analog SB202474 [4-ethyl-2-(p-methoxyphenyl)-5-(4'-pyridyl)-1H-imidazole] (25 microM) and the ERK 1/2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2) MAPK inhibitor PD98059 [2'-amino-3'-methoxyflavone] (50 microM) were ineffective. In contrast, the p38 MAPK inhibitors did not inhibit GABA(B)-mediated synaptic depression. These data suggest A1 receptor-mediated p38 MAPK activation is a crucial step underlying the presynaptic inhibitory effect of adenosine on CA3-CA1 synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyson B. Brust
- Brain Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 2B5
| | - Francisco S. Cayabyab
- Brain Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 2B5
| | - Ning Zhou
- Brain Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 2B5
| | - Brian A. MacVicar
- Brain Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6T 2B5
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Niswander JM, Dokas LA. Phosphorylation of HSP27 and synthesis of 14-3-3ε are parallel responses to hyperosmotic stress in the hippocampus. Brain Res 2006; 1116:19-30. [PMID: 16950235 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.07.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2006] [Revised: 07/23/2006] [Accepted: 07/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A stress-responsive, mitogen-activated protein kinase, p38, is activated by phosphorylation in response to adverse environmental insults. In the present study, the effects of hyperosmolarity on p38 activation and protein synthesis in the brain were examined. Hyperosmotic stress of rat brain slices, produced by addition of sorbitol to the incubation buffer, produced prolonged phosphorylation and activation of p38, most prominently in the hippocampus as compared to the cortex or cerebellum. In comparison, the prototypic mitogen-activated protein kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, was transiently phosphorylated and another stress-activated protein kinase, c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase, was not phosphorylated above basal levels. Examination of downstream p38 signaling events revealed phosphorylation of the small heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) that was abolished by incubation with SB202190 [4-(4-Fluorophenyl)-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-5-(4-pyridyl)1H-imidazole], a p38 inhibitor. Concomitantly, hyperosmolarity diminished total levels of protein synthesis within hippocampal slices, as determined by incorporation of (35)S-labeled methionine/cysteine into protein during tissue incubation. However, synthesis of a 30-kDa protein, identified as 14-3-3epsilon with mass spectrometry, increased in response to hyperosmolarity. The synthesis of 14-3-3epsilon was dose-dependently induced by increasingly hyperosmotic conditions in a p38-independent manner. We conclude from these results that 14-3-3epsilon synthesis and p38-mediated HSP27 phosphorylation in the hippocampus are parallel responses to the hyperosmotic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Niswander
- Department of Neurology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH 43614-5809, USA
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Poolos NP, Bullis JB, Roth MK. Modulation of h-channels in hippocampal pyramidal neurons by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. J Neurosci 2006; 26:7995-8003. [PMID: 16870744 PMCID: PMC6674228 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2069-06.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2005] [Revised: 06/22/2006] [Accepted: 06/23/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels (h-channels; I(h); HCN) modulate intrinsic excitability in hippocampal and neocortical pyramidal neurons, among others. Whereas I(h) mediated by the HCN2 isoform is regulated by cAMP, there is little known about kinase modulation of I(h), especially for the HCN1 isoform predominant in pyramidal neurons. We used a computational method to identify a novel kinase modulator of h-channels, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK). Inhibition of p38 MAPK in hippocampal pyramidal neurons caused a approximately 25 mV hyperpolarization of I(h) voltage-dependent activation. This downregulation of I(h) produced hyperpolarization of resting potential, along with increased input resistance and temporal summation of excitatory inputs. Activation of p38 MAPK caused a approximately 11 mV depolarizing shift in I(h) activation, along with depolarized resting potential, and decreased input resistance and temporal summation. Inhibition of related MAPKs, ERK1/2 (extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2) and JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase), produced no effect on I(h). These results show that p38 MAPK is a strong modulator of h-channel biophysical properties and may deserve additional exploration as a link between altered I(h) and pathological conditions such as epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas P Poolos
- Department of Neurology and Regional Epilepsy Center, Neurobiology and Behavior Program, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98104, USA.
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Svensson CI, Fitzsimmons B, Azizi S, Powell HC, Hua XY, Yaksh TL. Spinal p38beta isoform mediates tissue injury-induced hyperalgesia and spinal sensitization. J Neurochem 2005; 92:1508-20. [PMID: 15748168 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2004.02996.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Antagonist studies show that spinal p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase plays a crucial role in spinal sensitization. However, there are two p38 isoforms found in spinal cord and the relative contribution of these two to hyperalgesia is not known. Here we demonstrate that the isoforms are distinctly expressed in spinal dorsal horn: p38alpha in neurons and p38beta in microglia. In lieu of isoform selective inhibitors, we examined the functional role of these two individual isoforms in nociception by using intrathecal isoform-specific antisense oligonucleotides to selectively block the expression of the respective isoform. In these rats, down-regulation of spinal p38beta, but not p38alpha, prevented nocifensive flinching evoked by intraplantar injection of formalin and hyperalgesia induced by activation of spinal neurokinin-1 receptors through intrathecal injection of substance P. Both intraplantar formalin and intrathecal substance P produced an increase in spinal p38 phosphorylation and this phosphorylation (activation) was prevented when spinal p38beta, but not p38alpha, was down-regulated. Thus, spinal p38beta, probably in microglia, plays a significant role in spinal nociceptive processing and represents a potential target for pain therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla I Svensson
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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Ackerley S, Grierson AJ, Banner S, Perkinton MS, Brownlees J, Byers HL, Ward M, Thornhill P, Hussain K, Waby JS, Anderton BH, Cooper JD, Dingwall C, Leigh PN, Shaw CE, Miller CCJ. p38α stress-activated protein kinase phosphorylates neurofilaments and is associated with neurofilament pathology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Mol Cell Neurosci 2004; 26:354-64. [PMID: 15207859 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2004.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2003] [Revised: 02/17/2004] [Accepted: 02/25/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofilament middle and heavy chains (NFM and NFH) are heavily phosphorylated on their carboxy-terminal side-arm domains in axons. The mechanisms that regulate this phosphorylation are complex. Here, we demonstrate that p38alpha, a member of the stress-activated protein kinase family, will phosphorylate NFM and NFH on their side-arm domains. Aberrant accumulations of neurofilaments containing phosphorylated NFM and NFH side-arms are a pathological feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and we also demonstrate that p38alpha and active forms of p38 family kinases are associated with these accumulations. This is the case for sporadic and familial forms of ALS and also in a transgenic mouse model of ALS caused by expression of mutant superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1). Thus, p38 kinases may contribute to the aberrant phosphorylation of NFM and NFH side-arms in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Ackerley
- Departments of Neuroscience and Neurology, The Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College, London, UK
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Kim SW, Yu YM, Piao CS, Kim JB, Lee JK. Inhibition of delayed induction of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase attenuates kainic acid-induced neuronal loss in the hippocampus. Brain Res 2004; 1007:188-91. [PMID: 15064151 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2004.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) has been implicated in the pathological changes accompanying inflammatory and apoptotic processes of various cell types including neurons. In a kainic acid (KA)-induced mouse seizure model, p38 MAPK is induced in reactive astrocytes in the CA3 region of the hippocampus where severe neuronal loss occurs. Here we report the delayed and protracted activation of p38 MAPK in the CA3 region of the hippocampus of mice treated with KA. In this model, the inhibition of p38 MAPK isoforms by SB203580, a specific inhibitor, attenuated neuronal loss in the CA3 and CA1 regions of the hippocampus, which was accompanied by the suppression of the p38 MAPK activation as well as astrogliosis. Thus, the delayed and sustained induction of p38 MAPK plays a crucial role in the neuronal damage of KA-induced brain seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Woo Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Inha University School of Medicine, 7-241 Shinheung-dong, Jung-Gu, Inchon, 400-712, South Korea
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth M Thomas
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, PCTB 904, 725 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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Tsuda M, Mizokoshi A, Shigemoto-Mogami Y, Koizumi S, Inoue K. Activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase in spinal hyperactive microglia contributes to pain hypersensitivity following peripheral nerve injury. Glia 2004; 45:89-95. [PMID: 14648549 DOI: 10.1002/glia.10308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 405] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is an expression of pathological operation of the nervous system, which commonly results from nerve injury and is characterized by pain hypersensitivity to innocuous stimuli, a phenomenon known as tactile allodynia. The mechanisms by which nerve injury creates tactile allodynia have remained largely unknown. We report that the development of tactile allodynia following nerve injury requires activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK), a member of the MAPK family, in spinal microglia. We found that immunofluorescence and protein levels of the dually phosphorylated active form of p38MAPK (phospho-p38MAPK) were increased in the dorsal horn ipsilateral to spinal nerve injury. Interestingly, the phospho-p38MAPK immunofluorescence in the dorsal horn was found exclusively in microglia, but not in neurons or astrocytes. The level of phospho-p38MAPK immunofluorescence in individual microglial cells was much higher in the hyperactive phenotype in the ipsilateral dorsal horn than the resting one in the contralateral side. Intrathecal administration of the p38MAPK inhibitor, 4-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(4-methylsulfonylphenyl)-5-(4-pyridyl)-1H-imidazole (SB203580), suppresses development of the nerve injury-induced tactile allodynia. Taken together, our results demonstrate that nerve injury-induced pain hypersensitivity depends on activation of the p38MAPK signaling pathway in hyperactive microglia in the dorsal horn following peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Tsuda
- Division of Biosignaling, National Institute of Health Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
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Abstract
At Aplysia sensory-to-motor neuron synapses, the inhibitory neuropeptide Phe-Met-Arg-Phe-NH2 (FMRFa) produces depression, and serotonin (5-HT) produces facilitation. Short-term depression has been found to result from the activation of a phospholipase A2. The released arachidonate is metabolized by 12-lipoxygenase to active second messengers. We find that FMRFa leads to the phosphorylation and activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase. Short-term depression and the release of arachidonate are blocked by the specific p38 kinase inhibitor SB 203580. Both the inhibitor and an affinity-purified antibody raised against recombinant Aplysia p38 kinase injected into sensory neurons prevented long-term depression, which depends on the phosphorylation of translation factors cAMP response element-binding protein 2 (CREB2) and activating transcription factor 2. Facilitation produced by 5-HT, on the other hand, inactivates p38 kinase. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicate that p38 kinase activates CREB2. p38 kinase also is pivotal in the bidirectional regulation of synaptic plasticity: when the kinase is inhibited, brief treatment with 5-HT that normally produces only short-term facilitation now results in long-term facilitation. Conversely, in sensory neurons injected with the activated kinase, long-term facilitation is blocked, and brief exposure to FMRFa, which normally results in short-term depression, results in long-term depression. We conclude that p38 kinase, which itself is bidirectionally regulated by FMRFa and 5-HT, acts as a modulator of synaptic plasticity by positively regulating depression and serving as an inhibitory constraint for facilitation.
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