beta2 Adrenergic receptor activation induces microglial NADPH oxidase activation and dopaminergic neurotoxicity through an ERK-dependent/protein kinase A-independent pathway

β2-adrenoceptor agonist formoterol attenuates NLRP3 inflammasome activation and GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis in microglia through enhancing IκBα/NF-κB inhibition, SQSTM1/p62-dependent selective autophagy and ESCRT-III-mediated plasma membrane repair

Microglia are immune cells that play important roles in the formation of the innate immune response within the central nervous system (CNS). The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a multiple protein complex that is crucial for innate immunity, and excessive activation of the inflammasome for various reasons contributes to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). β2-adrenoceptor agonists have become the focus of attention in studies on NDs due to the high synthesis of β2-adrenoceptors in the central nervous system (CNS). Promising results have been obtained from these studies targeting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Formoterol is an effective, safe for long-term use, and FDA-approved β2-adrenoceptor agonist with demonstrated anti-inflammatory features in the CNS. In this study, we researched the effects of formoterol on LPS/ATP-stimulated NLRP3 inflammasome activation, pyroptosis, NF-κB, autophagy, and ESCRT-III-mediated plasma membrane repair pathways in the N9 microglia cells. The results showed that formoterol, through the IκBα/NF-κB axis, significantly inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation, reduced the level of active caspase-1, secretion of IL-1β and IL-18 proinflammatory cytokine levels, and the levels of pyroptosis. Additionally, we showed that formoterol activates autophagy, autophagosome formation, and ESCRT-III-mediated plasma membrane repair, which are significant pathways in the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis. Our study suggests that formoterol efficaciously prevents the NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in microglial cells regulation through IκBα/NF-κB, autophagy, autophagosome formation, and ESCRT-III-mediated plasma membrane repair.

ROS-mediated regulation of β2AR function: Does oxidation play a meaningful role towards β2-agonist tachyphylaxis in airway obstructive diseases?

β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonists are the clinical gold standard for treatment and prophylaxis of airway constriction in pulmonary obstructive diseases such as asthma and COPD. Inhaled β2-agonists elicit rapid bronchorelaxation of the airway smooth muscle, yet, clinical tachyphylaxis to this response can occur over repeated and chronic use, which reduces the bronchodilatory effectiveness. Several mechanisms have been proposed to impart β2-agonist tachyphylaxis, most notably β2AR desensitization. However, airway tissue is known to be highly oxidative, particularly in obstructive disease states where reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation is upregulated and ROS degradation is suboptimal yielding a large oxidative burden. Recent evidence demonstrates that β2AR can regulate ROS generation and that ROS can post-translationally alter β2AR cysteine residues via oxidation, leading to distinct functional receptor outcomes. Herein, we discuss the growing evidence for β2AR mediated ROS generation in airway cells and the role of ROS in regulating β2AR via cysteine-oxidation of the receptor. Given the functional consequence of the β2AR-ROS signaling axis in the airways, we also discuss the potential role of ROS in mediating β2-agonist tachyphylaxis.

Agonists and hydrogen peroxide mediate hyperoxidation of β2-adrenergic receptor in airway epithelial cells: Implications for tachyphylaxis to β2-agonists in constrictive airway disorders

Asthma and other airway obstructive disorders are characterized by heightened inflammation and excessive airway epithelial cell reactive oxygen species (ROS), which give rise to a highly oxidative environment. After decades of use, β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonists remain at the forefront of treatment options for asthma, however, chronic use of β2-agonists leads to tachyphylaxis to the bronchorelaxant effects, a phenomenon that remains mechanistically unexplained. We have previously demonstrated that β2AR agonism increases ROS generation in airway epithelial cells, which upholds proper receptor function via feedback oxidation of β2AR cysteine thiolates to Cys-S-sulfenic acids (Cys-SOH). Our previous results also demonstrate that prevention of normal redox cycling of this post-translational oxi-modification back to the thiol prevents proper receptor function. Given that Cys-S-sulfenic acids can be irreversibly overoxidized to Cys-S-sulfinic (Cys-SO2H) or S-sulfonic (Cys-SO3H) acids, which are incapable of further participation in redox reactions, we hypothesized that β2-agonist tachyphylaxis may be explained by hyperoxidation of β2AR to S-sulfinic acids. Here, using airway epithelial cell lines and primary small airway epithelial cells from healthy and asthma-diseased donors, we show that β2AR agonism generates H2O2 in a receptor and NAPDH oxidase-dependent manner. We also demonstrate that acute and chronic receptor agonism can facilitate β2AR S-sulfination, and that millimolar H2O2 concentrations are deleterious to β2AR-mediated cAMP formation, an effect that can be rescued to a degree in the presence of the cysteine-donating antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine. Our results reveal that the oxidative state of β2AR may contribute to receptor functionality and may, at least in part, explain β2-agonist tachyphylaxis.

Norepinephrine modulates calcium dynamics in cortical oligodendrocyte precursor cells promoting proliferation during arousal in mice

Oligodendrocytes, the myelinating cells of the central nervous system (CNS), are generated from oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) that express neurotransmitter receptors. However, the mechanisms that affect OPC activity in vivo and the physiological roles of neurotransmitter signaling in OPCs are unclear. In this study, we generated a transgenic mouse line that expresses membrane-anchored GCaMP6s in OPCs and used longitudinal two-photon microscopy to monitor OPC calcium (Ca2+) dynamics in the cerebral cortex. OPCs exhibit focal and transient Ca2+ increases within their processes that are enhanced during locomotion-induced increases in arousal. The Ca2+ transients occur independently of excitatory neuron activity, rapidly decline when OPCs differentiate and are inhibited by anesthesia, sedative agents or noradrenergic receptor antagonists. Conditional knockout of α1A adrenergic receptors in OPCs suppresses spontaneous and locomotion-induced Ca2+ increases and reduces OPC proliferation. Our results demonstrate that OPCs are directly modulated by norepinephrine in vivo to enhance Ca2+ dynamics and promote population homeostasis.

Adrenoceptors as potential target for add-on immunomodulatory therapy in multiple sclerosis

This review summarizes recent findings related to the role of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) in pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its commonly used experimental model - experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). They indicate that noradrenaline, the key end-point mediator of the SNS, acting through β-adrenoceptor, has a contributory role in the early stages of MS/EAE development. This stage is characterized by the SNS hyperactivity (increased release of noradrenaline) reflecting the net effect of different factors, such as the disease-associated inflammation, stress, vitamin D hypovitaminosis, Epstein-Barr virus infection and dysbiosis. Thus, the administration of propranolol, a non-selective β-adrenoceptor blocker, readily crossing the blood-brain barrier, to experimental rats before the autoimmune challenge and in the early (preclinical/prodromal) phase of the disease mitigates EAE severity. This phenomenon has been ascribed to the alleviation of neuroinflammation (due to attenuation of primarily microglial activation/proinflammatory functions) and the diminution of the magnitude of the primary CD4+ T-cell autoimmune response (the effect associated with impaired autoantigen uptake by antigen presenting cells and their migration into draining lymph nodes). The former is partly related to breaking of the catecholamine-dependent self-amplifying microglial feed-forward loop and the positive feedback loop between microglia and the SNS, leading to down-regulation of the SNS hyperactivity and its enhancing influence on microglial activation/proinflammatory functions and the magnitude of autoimmune response. The effects of propranolol are shown to be more prominent in male EAE animals, the phenomenon important as males (like men) are likely to develop clinically more severe disease. Thus, these findings could serve as a firm scientific background for formulation of a new sex-specific immune-intervention strategy for the early phases of MS (characterized by the SNS hyperactivity) exploiting anti-(neuro)inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of propranolol and other relatively cheap and safe adrenergic drugs with similar therapeutic profile.

The β-adrenergic hypothesis of synaptic and microglial impairment in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease originating partly from amyloid β protein-induced synaptic failure. As damaging of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) occurs at the prodromal stage of AD, activation of adrenergic receptors could serve as the first line of defense against the onset of the disease. Activation of β₂ -ARs strengthens long-term potentiation (LTP) and synaptic activity, thus improving learning and memory. Physical stimulation of animals exposed to an enriched environment (EE) leads to the activation of β₂ -ARs and prevents synaptic dysfunction. EE also suppresses neuroinflammation, suggesting that β₂ -AR agonists may play a neuroprotective role. The β₂ -AR agonists used for respiratory diseases have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect. Epidemiological studies further support the beneficial effects of β₂ -AR agonists on several neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, I propose that β₂ -AR agonists may provide therapeutic value in combination with novel treatments for AD.

Chimeric GPCRs mimic distinct signaling pathways and modulate microglia responses

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate processes ranging from immune responses to neuronal signaling. However, ligands for many GPCRs remain unknown, suffer from off-target effects or have poor bioavailability. Additionally, dissecting cell type-specific responses is challenging when the same GPCR is expressed on different cells within a tissue. Here, we overcome these limitations by engineering DREADD-based GPCR chimeras that bind clozapine-N-oxide and mimic a GPCR-of-interest. We show that chimeric DREADD-β2AR triggers responses comparable to β2AR on second messenger and kinase activity, post-translational modifications, and protein-protein interactions. Moreover, we successfully recapitulate β2AR-mediated filopodia formation in microglia, an immune cell capable of driving central nervous system inflammation. When dissecting microglial inflammation, we included two additional DREADD-based chimeras mimicking microglia-enriched GPR65 and GPR109A. DREADD-β2AR and DREADD-GPR65 modulate the inflammatory response with high similarity to endogenous β2AR, while DREADD-GPR109A shows no impact. Our DREADD-based approach allows investigation of cell type-dependent pathways without known endogenous ligands.

Understanding the function of GPCRs requires stimulation with their specific ligands. Here, the authors design chemogenetic G-protein coupled receptors that allows for the study of receptors without knowing the immediate ligand, and demonstrate its use for the β2-adrenergic receptor in microglia.

Involvement of inflammatory responses in the brain to the onset of major depressive disorder due to stress exposure

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a multifactorial disease affected by several environmental factors. Although several potential onset hypotheses have been identified, the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of this disorder remain unclear. Several recent studies have suggested that among many environmental factors, inflammation and immune abnormalities in the brain or the peripheral tissues are associated with the onset of MDDs. Furthermore, several stress-related hypotheses have been proposed to explain the onset of MDDs. Thus, inflammation or immune abnormalities can be considered stress responses that occur within the brain or other tissues and are regarded as one of the mechanisms underlying the stress hypothesis of MDDs. Therefore, we introduce several current advances in inflammation studies in the brain that might be related to the pathophysiology of MDD due to stress exposure in this review.

Role of G Protein-Coupled Receptors in Microglial Activation: Implication in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the prevalent neurodegenerative diseases associated with preferential loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra compacta (SNc) and accumulation of α-synuclein in DA neurons. Even though the precise pathogenesis of PD is not clear, a large number of studies have shown that microglia-mediated neuroinflammation plays a vital role in the process of PD development. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are widely expressed in microglia and several of them act as regulators of microglial activation upon corresponding ligands stimulations. Upon α-synuclein insults, microglia would become excessively activated through some innate immune receptors. Presently, as lack of ideal drugs for treating PD, certain GPCR which is highly expressed in microglia of PD brain and mediates neuroinflammation effectively could be a prospective source for PD therapeutic intervention. Here, six kinds of GPCRs and two types of innate immune receptors were introduced, containing adenosine receptors, purinergic receptors, metabotropic glutamate receptors, adrenergic receptors, cannabinoid receptors, and melatonin receptors and their roles in neuroinflammation; we highlighted the relationship between these six GPCRs and microglial activation in PD. Based on the existing findings, we tried to expound the implication of microglial GPCRs-regulated neuroinflammation to the pathophysiology of PD and their potential to become a new expectation for clinical therapeutics.

Restraint stress induces uterine microenvironment disorder in mice during early pregnancy through the β2-AR/cAMP/PKA pathway

During pregnancy, uterus undergoes the environment adaptation as part of a program of development. In the world, one in four people worldwide suffer from mental illness, especially pregnant women. β-Adrenergic receptor (β-AR) is an important regulator that converts environmental stimuli into intracellular signals in mice uterus. CD-1 (ICR) mice undergone restraint stress, which was a case in model to simulate the psychological stress. The plasma and implantation sites in uterus were obtained and examined. PCR analysis demonstrated that β₂-AR expression levels in embryo day (E) 3, 5 and 7 were kept at a significantly higher level (p < 0.05) under restraint stress and higher than β₁-AR and β₃-AR in different gestation ages. The β₂-AR protein levels were obviously increased (p < 0.05) due to the markedly elevated norepinephrine (NE) concentration (p < 0.05). In our previous study, restraint stress can induce the apoptosis and inflammation. Also, the matrix metalloprotein-9 (MMP-9) was decreased significantly (p < 0.05) under restraint stress. Meanwhile, Caspase3, p-NF-κB p65 and p-ERK1/2 were obviously increased (p < 0.05) in the work. In vitro studies showed that the p-ERK1/2 and Caspase-3 levels were raised (p < 0.05) after β₂-AR was activated. However, they were decreased when PKA was blocked. The protein levels of Caspase-3 were reduced when ERK and NF-κB were blocked (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the β₂-AR/cAMP/PKA pathway promoted apoptosis and affected the development of the uterus through the ERK and NF-κB signaling pathway. The findings of this study may provide evidence for female reproduction under psychological stress.

Stress and brain immunity: Microglial homeostasis through hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal gland axis and sympathetic nervous system

Stress has been well documented to bring about various clinical disorders, ranging from neurodegeneration, such as Parkinson’s (PD) and Alzheimer’s diseases (AD), to metabolic disorders including diabetes mellitus. Importantly, microglia, immunocompetent cells in the brain, have been shown to be involved in these clinical disorders. In the recent studies aiming to clarify the microglial responses, microglia are found to be quite responsive to stressful events, such as acute, subchronic, chronic stress, and social defeat stress. However, the mechanisms of these stress response on microglial activation have been not fully understood. In response to stress exposure, both the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) are simultaneously activated, with the former inducing glucocorticoids (GCs) and the latter noradrenaline (NA), respectively. However, the effects of these stress-induced GCs and NA have not been consistent. The GCs, conventionally known to act on microglia as immunosuppressant, is also reported to act on it as stimulator. Similarly, the NA has been reported to act on microglia as stimulator or inhibitor depending on environmental conditions. Since any kinds of stress upregulate the HPA axis and SNS, with the levels of upregulation variable depending on the stress type, it is plausible that microglia is closely regulated by these two stress pathways. In this review, we discuss the microglial responses induced by various stresses as well as the possible mechanism by which stress induces microglial activation.

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The present study introduces the mechanism by which microglial activation occurs following acute stress.

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The present study suggests that microglial activation may be regulated through the HPA axis and sympathetic nervous system.

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The present study suggests that microglia may be inhibited by glucocorticoids, while activated by noradrenaline under physiological conditions.

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The present study suggests the hypothesis that the HPA axis may interact with sympathetic nervous system to maintain microglial homeostasis.

Aquaporin 8 is involved in H2 O2 -mediated differential regulation of metabolic signaling by α1 - and β-adrenoceptors in hepatocytes

Reactive oxygen species participate in regulating intracellular signaling pathways. Herein, we investigated the reported opposite effects of hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ ) on metabolic signaling mediated by activated α₁ - and β-adrenoceptors (ARs) in hepatocytes. In isolated rat hepatocytes, stimulation of α₁ -AR increases H₂ O₂ production via NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) activation. We find that the H₂ O₂ thus produced is essential for α₁ -AR-mediated activation of the classical hepatic glycogenolytic, gluconeogenic, and ureagenic responses. However, H₂ O₂ inhibits β-AR-mediated activation of these metabolic responses. We show that H₂ O₂ mediates its effects on α₁ -AR and β-AR by permeating cells through aquaporin 8 (AQP8) channels and promoting Ca²⁺ mobilization. Thus, our findings reveal a novel NOX2-H₂ O₂ -AQP8-Ca²⁺ signaling cascade acting downstream of α₁ -AR in hepatocytes, which, by negatively regulating β-AR signaling, establishes negative crosstalk between the two pathways.

Cysteine redox state regulates human β2-adrenergic receptor binding and function

Bronchoconstrictive airway disorders such as asthma are characterized by inflammation and increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which produce a highly oxidative environment. β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonists are a mainstay of clinical therapy for asthma and provide bronchorelaxation upon inhalation. We have previously shown that β2AR agonism generates intracellular ROS, an effect that is required for receptor function, and which post-translationally oxidizes β2AR cysteine thiols to Cys-S-sulfenic acids (Cys-S-OH). Furthermore, highly oxidative environments can irreversibly oxidize Cys-S-OH to Cys-S-sulfinic (Cys-SO₂H) or S-sulfonic (Cys-SO₃H) acids, which are incapable of further participating in homeostatic redox reactions (i.e., redox-deficient). The aim of this study was to examine the vitality of β2AR-ROS interplay and the resultant functional consequences of β2AR Cys-redox in the receptors native, oxidized, and redox-deficient states. Here, we show for the first time that β2AR can be oxidized to Cys-S-OH in situ, moreover, using both clonal cells and a human airway epithelial cell line endogenously expressing β2AR, we show that receptor redox state profoundly influences β2AR orthosteric ligand binding and downstream function. Specifically, homeostatic β2AR redox states are vital toward agonist-induced cAMP formation and subsequent CREB and G-protein-dependent ERK1/2 phosphorylation, in addition to β-arrestin-2 recruitment and downstream arrestin-dependent ERK1/2 phosphorylation and internalization. On the contrary, redox-deficient β2AR states exhibit decreased ability to signal via either Gαs or β-arrestin. Together, our results demonstrate a β2AR-ROS redox axis, which if disturbed, interferes with proper receptor function.

Stress-induced microglial activation occurs through β-adrenergic receptor: noradrenaline as a key neurotransmitter in microglial activation

Background

The involvement of microglia in neuroinflammatory responses has been extensively demonstrated. Recent animal studies have shown that exposure to either acute or chronic stress induces robust microglial activation in the brain. In the present study, we investigated the underlying mechanism of brain microglial activation by acute stress.

Methods

We first looked at the spatial distribution of the noradrenaline (NA)-synthesizing enzyme, DBH (dopamine β-hydroxylase), in comparison with NA receptors—β1, β2, and β3 adrenergic receptors (β1-AR, β2-AR, and β3-AR)—after which we examined the effects of the β-blocker propranolol and α-blockers prazosin and yohimbine on stress-induced microglial activation. Finally, we compared stress-induced microglial activation between wild-type (WT) mice and double-knockout (DKO) mice lacking β1-AR and β2-AR.

Results

The results demonstrated that (1) microglial activation occurred in most studied brain regions, including the hippocampus (HC), thalamus (TM), and hypothalamus (HT); (2) within these three brain regions, the NA-synthesizing enzyme DBH was densely stained in the neuronal fibers; (3) β1-AR and β2-AR, but not β3-AR, are detected in the whole brain, and β1-AR and β2-AR are co-localized with microglial cells, as observed by laser scanning microscopy; (4) β-blocker treatment inhibited microglial activation in terms of morphology and count through the whole brain; α-blockers did not show such effect; (5) unlike WT mice, DKO mice exhibited substantial inhibition of stress-induced microglial activation in the brain.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that neurons/microglia may interact with NA via β1-AR and β2-AR.

The β2-adrenergic receptor-ROS signaling axis: An overlooked component of β2AR function?

β2-Adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonists are clinically used to elicit rapid bronchodilation for the treatment of bronchospasms in pulmonary diseases such as asthma and COPD, both of which exhibit characteristically high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS); likely secondary to over-expression of ROS generating enzymes and chronically heightened inflammation. Interestingly, β2AR has long-been linked to ROS, yet the involvement of ROS in β2AR function has not been as vigorously studied as other aspects of β2AR signaling. Herein, we discuss the existing body of evidence linking β2AR activation to intracellular ROS generation and importantly, the role of ROS in regulating β2AR function. The reciprocal interplay of the β2AR and ROS appear to endow this receptor with the ability to self-regulate signaling efficacy and ligand binding, hereby unveiling a redox-axis that may be unfavorably altered in pathological states contributing to both disease progression and therapeutic drug responses.

Differential proteomic profiles and characterizations between hyalinocytes and granulocytes in ivory shell Babylonia areolata

The haemocytes of the ivory shell, Babylonia areolata are classified by morphologic observation into the following types: hyalinocytes (H) and granulocytes (G). Haemocytes comprise diverse cell types with morphological and functional heterogene and play indispensable roles in immunological homeostasis of invertebrates. In the present study, two types of haemocytes were morphologically identified and separated as H and G by Percoll density gradient centrifugation. The differentially expressed proteins were investigated between H and G using mass spectrometry. The results showed that total quantitative proteins between H and G samples were 1644, the number of up-regulated proteins in G was 215, and the number of down-regulated proteins in G was 378. Among them, cathepsin, p38 MAPK, toll-interacting protein-like and beta-adrenergic receptor kinase 2-like were up-regulated in G; alpha-2-macroglobulin-like protein, C-type lectin, galectin-2-1, galectin-3, β-1,3-glucan-binding protein, ferritin, mega-hemocyanin, mucin-17-like, mucin-5AC-like and catalytic subunit of protein kinase A were down-regulated in G. The results showed that the most significantly enriched KEGG pathways were the pathways related to ribosome, phagosome, endocytosis, carbon metabolism, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum and oxidative phosphorylation. For phagosome and endocytosis pathway, the number of down-regulation proteins in G was more than that of up-regulation proteins. For lysosome pathway, the number of up-regulation proteins in G was more than that of down-regulation proteins. These results suggested that two sub-population haemocytes perform the different immune functions in B. areolata.

Regulation of NADPH Oxidases by G Protein-Coupled Receptors

SIGNIFICANCE

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) are the largest group of cell surface receptors, which link cells to their environment. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can act as important cellular signaling molecules. The family of NADPH oxidases generates ROS in response to activated cell surface receptors. Recent Advances: Various signaling pathways linking GPCRs and activation of NADPH oxidases have been characterized.

CRITICAL ISSUES

Still, a more detailed analysis of G proteins involved in the GPCR-mediated activation of NADPH oxidases is needed. In addition, a more precise discrimination of NADPH oxidase activation due to either upregulation of subunit expression or post-translational subunit modifications is needed. Also, the role of noncanonical modulators of NADPH oxidase activation in the response to GPCRs awaits further analyses.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

As GPCRs are one of the most popular classes of investigational drug targets, further detailing of G protein-coupled mechanisms in the activation mechanism of NADPH oxidases as well as better understanding of the link between newly identified NADPH oxidase interaction partners and GPCR signaling will provide new opportunities for improved efficiency and decreased off target effects of therapies targeting GPCRs.

Beta3 adrenergic receptor stimulation in human macrophages inhibits NADPHoxidase activity and induces catalase expression via PPARγ activation

The beta3 adrenergic receptor (β3-AR) stimulation plays a protective role against preterm labor by blocking myometrial contraction, cytokine production, remodeling and apoptosis. We previously demonstrated that macrophage-induced ROS production in the myometrium was a key element leading to the induction of all these labor-associated features. We thus aimed to investigate if the β3-AR could be expressed in human macrophages and could trigger its protective role in the myometrium by directly inhibiting ROS production. Using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated myometrial samples and cell co-culture experiments, we demonstrated that β3-AR stimulation inhibits the activation of the NADPH oxidase, leading to the subsequent inhibition of ROS production by macrophages. This antioxidant effect was associated with a potent anti-inflammatory response in macrophages. Furthermore, we observed that β3-AR leads to the expression of catalase not only in macrophages but also in myometrial cells, thereby preventing the transactivation of myometrial cells by hydrogen peroxide. Pharmacological experiments allowed us to demonstrate that these effects were driven by an Erk1/2-mediated activation of the antioxidant transcription factor PPARγ. These results suggest that β3-AR protective effects in the myometrium could be due to its dual antioxidant properties. Further, the effects observed in a macrophage could highlight new applications in chronic inflammatory diseases.

Anti-inflammatory effects of noradrenaline on LPS-treated microglial cells: Suppression of NFκB nuclear translocation and subsequent STAT1 phosphorylation

Noradrenaline (NA) has marked anti-inflammatory effects on activated microglial cells. The present study was conducted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the NA effects using rat primary cultured microglial cells. NA, an α1 agonist, phenylephrine (Phe) and a β2 agonist, terbutaline (Ter) suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) release by microglia and prevented neuronal degeneration in LPS-treated neuron-microglia coculture. The agents suppressed expression of mRNA encoding proinflammatory mediators. Both an α1-selective blocker terazocine and a β2-selective blocker butoxamine overcame the suppressive effects of NA. cAMP-dependent kinase (PKA) inhibitors did not abolish the suppressive NA effects. LPS decreased IκB leading to NFκB translocation into nuclei, then induced phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and expression of interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1). NA inhibited LPS-induced these changes. When NFκB expression was knocked down with siRNA, LPS-induced STAT1 phosphorylation and IRF1 expression was abolished. NA did not suppress IL-6 induced STAT1 phosphorylation and IRF1 expression. These results suggest that one of the critical mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of NA is the inhibition of NFκB translocation. Although inhibitory effects of NA on STAT1 phosphorylation and IRF1 expression may contribute to the overall suppressive effects of NA, these may be the downstream events of inhibitory effects on NFκB. Since NA, Phe and Ter exerted almost the same effects and PKA inhibitors did not show significant antagonistic effects, the suppression by NA might not be dependent on specific adrenergic receptors and cAMP-dependent signaling pathway.

Regulation of β2-adrenergic receptor cell surface expression by interaction with cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator-associated ligand (CAL)

The beta-2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR), a member of GPCR, can activate multiple signaling pathways and is an important treatment target for cardiac failure. However, the molecular mechanism about β2AR signaling regulation is not fully understood. In this study, we found that cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator-associated ligand (CAL) overexpression reduced β2AR-mediated extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2) activation. Further study identified CAL as a novel binding partner of β2AR. CAL is associated with β2AR mainly via the third intracellular loop (ICL3) of receptor and the coiled-coil domains of CAL, which is distinct from CAL/β1AR interaction mediated by the carboxyl terminal (CT) of β1AR and PDZ domain of CAL. CAL overexpression retarded β2AR expression in Golgi apparatus and reduced the receptor expression in plasma membrane.

β2-Adrenoceptor involved in smoking-induced airway mucus hypersecretion through β-arrestin-dependent signaling

Progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is associated with small airway obstruction by accumulation of inflammatory mucous exudates. However, the mechanism of mucin hypersecretion after exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) is still not clear. In this study, we explored the contribution of β2-adrenoceptor (β2-AR) signaling to CS extract (CSE)-induced mucus hypersecretion in vitro and examined the effect of a β-blocker on airway mucin hypersecretion in vivo. NCI-H292 epithelial cell line was used to determine the contribution of β2-AR signaling to CSE-induced MUC5AC production by treatment with β2-AR antagonists propranolol and ICI118551 and β2-AR-targeted small interfering RNA. The effect of propranolol on airway mucus hypersecretion was examined in a rat model exposed to CS. MUC5AC expression was assayed by real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry and ELISA. β2-AR and its downstream signaling were detected by western blot analysis. We found that pretreating NCI-H292 cells with propranolol, ICI118551 for 30 min or β2AR-targeted siRNA for 48 h reduced MUC5AC mRNA and protein levels stimulated by CSE. However,inhibiting the classical β2AR-cAMP-PKA pathway didn't attenuate CSE-induced MUC5AC production, while silencing β-arretin2 expression significantly decreased ERK and p38MAPK phosphorylation, thus reduced the CSE-stimulated MUC5AC production. In vivo, we found that administration of propranolol (25 mg kg(-1) d(-1)) for 28 days significantly attenuated the airway goblet cell metaplasia, mucus hypersecretion and MUC5AC expression of rats exposed to CS. From the study, β2-AR-β-arrestin2-ERK1/2 signaling was required for CS-induced airway MUC5AC expression. Chronic propranolol administration ameliorated airway mucus hypersecretion and MUC5AC expression in smoking rats. The exploration of these mechanisms may contribute to the optimization of β2-AR target therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Potential benefits of therapeutic use of β2-adrenergic receptor agonists in neuroprotection and Parkinsonμs disease

The β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) is a seven-transmembrane (7TM) G-protein coupled receptor that is expressed on cells of the pulmonary, cardiac, skeletal muscle, and immune systems. Previous work has shown that stimulation of this receptor on immune cells has profound effects on the regulatory activity of both adaptive and innate immune cells. This review examines the functional dichotomy associated with stimulation of β2AR and microglial cells. As well, recent studies targeting these receptors with long-acting agonists are considered with respect to their therapeutic potential in management of Parkinsonμs disease.

The role of the β2 adrenergic receptor on endothelial progenitor cells dysfunction of proliferation and migration in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with > 44% of these patients presenting with generalized atherosclerosis at autopsy. It is accepted that endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) participate in the repair of dysfunctional endothelium, thereby, protecting against atherosclerosis. The β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR) expressed on mononuclear cells in peripheral blood and CD34(+) cells in bone has been shown to regulate T-cell traffic and proliferation. At present, there have been few systematic studies evaluating β2AR expression on EPCs in the peripheral blood of COPD patients and its role in EPCs migration and proliferation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the role of β2ARs in EPCs function and, if this role is altered, in the COPD population.

METHODS

EPCs from 25 COPD and 16 control patients were isolated by Ficoll density-gradient centrifugation and identified using fluorescence-activated cell sorting. β2AR expression on EPCs was determined by western blotting and real-time PCR. The transwell migration assay was performed to determine the migration capacity of EPCs treated with a β2AR agonist, antagonist and β2AR monoclonal antibody. EPCs proliferation was assayed throughout the cell cycle. Following arterial damage in NOD/SCID mice, the number of EPCs treated with siRNA-β2AR incorporated at the injured vascular site was determined by fluorescence microscopy.

RESULTS

Data showed a significant increase in the total number of β2ARs in addition to an increased expression on early EPCs in COPD patients. COPD EPCs treated with β2AR antagonist (ICI 118551) increased migration to SDF-1α when compared to treatment with the β2AR agonist, norepinephrine. These changes were directly correlated to increase CXCR4 on EPCs. The proliferation of early EPCs treated with β2AR antagonist was improved and was correlated to an intercellular decrease in reactive oxygen species.

CONCLUSION

Changes in β2AR in COPD patients alter EPCs migration and proliferation, contributing to altered EPC repair capacity in this patient population.

Mice lacking the β2 adrenergic receptor have a unique genetic profile before and after focal brain ischaemia

The role of the β2AR (β2 adrenergic receptor) after stroke is unclear as pharmacological manipulations of the β2AR have produced contradictory results. We previously showed that mice deficient in the β2AR (β2KO) had smaller infarcts compared with WT (wild-type) mice (FVB) after MCAO (middle cerebral artery occlusion), a model of stroke. To elucidate mechanisms of this neuroprotection, we evaluated changes in gene expression using microarrays comparing differences before and after MCAO, and differences between genotypes. Genes associated with inflammation and cell deaths were enriched after MCAO in both genotypes, and we identified several genes not previously shown to increase following ischaemia (Ccl9, Gem and Prg4). In addition to networks that were similar between genotypes, one network with a central core of GPCR (G-protein-coupled receptor) and including biological functions such as carbohydrate metabolism, small molecule biochemistry and inflammation was identified in FVB mice but not in β2KO mice. Analysis of differences between genotypes revealed 11 genes differentially expressed by genotype both before and after ischaemia. We demonstrate greater Glo1 protein levels and lower Pmaip/Noxa mRNA levels in β2KO mice in both sham and MCAO conditions. As both genes are implicated in NF-κB (nuclear factor κB) signalling, we measured p65 activity and TNFα (tumour necrosis factor α) levels 24 h after MCAO. MCAO-induced p65 activation and post-ischaemic TNFα production were both greater in FVB compared with β2KO mice. These results suggest that loss of β2AR signalling results in a neuroprotective phenotype in part due to decreased NF-κB signalling, decreased inflammation and decreased apoptotic signalling in the brain.

Reactive oxygen species are required for β2 adrenergic receptor-β-arrestin interactions and signaling to ERK1/2

The β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) is the prototypical member of the heptahelical G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily and is well-known to elicit biological effects through both G protein-dependent and G protein-independent signaling cascades. Agonism of β2AR has been described to promote phosphorylation and activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2) via a G-protein/PKA pathway that transpires rapidly upon receptor agonism, as well as by a distinct β-arrestin-mediated pathway that occurs at later time points. We have previously shown that β2AR agonism promotes generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and that β2AR-associated G protein signaling is dependent on ROS formation. It has also been suggested that β2AR-mediated ROS generation occurs via recruitment of β-arrestins. In this study, we confirm the effects of β-arrestin on β2AR-induced ROS generation, and investigate the ROS-dependency of β-arrestin-linked β2AR signaling. In HEK293 cells, both coimmunoprecipitation and BRET studies reveal that ROS are vital for the physical interaction of β2AR with β-arrestin partner proteins. Using phosphorylation of ERK1/2 as a functional endpoint to assess the role of ROS in β2AR-β-arrestin signaling, our results show that inhibition of intracellular ROS abrogates both the β-arrestin and G protein-mediated phosphorylation of ERK1/2 upon agonism of β2AR. Importantly, both the G protein and β-arrestin components were reversed upon exogenous administration of ROS, suggesting a critical role for oxidants in stabilization of β2AR. Taken together, our data signify that ROS serve purposeful roles in stabilizing both G protein- and β-arrestin-mediated β2AR signaling in HEK293 cells.

Identification of novel competing β2AR phospho-extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways in human trabecular meshwork cells

PURPOSE

β-Adrenergic receptor (βAR) agonists reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing aqueous outflow through the trabecular meshwork (TM). However, although this effect is well established, the specific signaling mechanisms responsible are less clear. To address this, the current study examined βAR signaling in primary human trabecular meshwork cells (HTMCs), specifically, focusing on the effect of βAR activation on the extracellular signal regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK).

METHODS

HTMCs were cultured and assessed for βAR expression by both immunofluorescence and reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The effect of βAR activation on ERK phosphorylation was examined in these cells by In-Cell Western™ analysis. Pharmacological approaches were used to characterize the mechanism of the βAR effect on ERK.

RESULTS

Treatment of HTMCs with the nonselective βAR agonist, isoproterenol (ISO), decreased the basal phospho-ERK (pERK) level, through actions at the β2AR. The response was insensitive to pertussis toxin (PTx), but pretreatment with cholera toxin (CTx) resulted in a reversal of the response, such that ISO treatment instead increased pERK, thus implicating Gα(s) in the inhibitory pERK response. The adenylyl cyclase activator, forskolin, also decreased pERK, suggesting the involvement of adenylyl cyclase and cAMP, whereas a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, H-89, blocked both ISO and forskolin-mediated pERK inhibition in HTMCs. Finally, a closer examination of the pERK increase generated in the presence of CTx demonstrated that it was also insensitive to PTx, and appeared to have differing rank orders of efficacy for various βAR agonists compared with the inhibitory pERK pathway in HTMCs.

CONCLUSION

A novel β(2)AR-signaling pathway leading to a decrease in pERK, which was dependent on Gα(s), cAMP, and PKA, was identified in HTMCs. A competing β(2)AR signaling pathway resulting in increased pERK was also identified. Since βAR effects on aqueous humor (AH) outflow have been linked to cAMP, and inhibition of ERK in TM cells has recently been suggested as increasing AH outflow, our findings suggest that the inhibitory β(2)AR-pERK pathway likely represents the mechanism by which βAR agonists decrease IOP. The presence of a competing β(2)AR-ERK activation pathway in the same cells suggests that this is an ideal system for the development and validation of functionally selective β(2)AR agonists.

Agonist- and hydrogen peroxide-mediated oxidation of the β2 adrenergic receptor: evidence of receptor s-sulfenation as detected by a modified biotin-switch assay

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), including hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)), have recently been shown to be generated upon agonism of several members of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, including β(2)-adrenergic receptors (β(2)ARs). Previously, we have demonstrated that inhibition of intracellular ROS generation mitigates β(2)AR signaling, suggesting that β(2)AR-mediated ROS generation is capable of feeding back to regulate receptor function. Given that ROS, specifically H(2)O(2), are able to post-translationally oxidize protein cysteine sulfhydryls to cysteine-sulfenic acids, the goal of the current study was to assess whether ROS are capable of S-sulfenating β(2)AR. Using a modified biotin-switch assay that is selective for cysteine-sulfenic acids, our results demonstrate for the first time that H(2)O(2) treatment facilitates S-sulfenation of transiently overexpressed β(2)AR in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. It is noteworthy that stimulation of cells with the β-agonist isoproterenol produces both dose- and time-dependent S-sulfenation of β(2)AR, an effect that is receptor-dependent, and demonstrates that receptor-generated ROS are also capable of oxidizing the β(2)AR. Receptor-dependent S-sulfenation was inhibited by the chemoselective sulfenic acid alkylator dimedone and the cysteine antioxidant N-acetyl-l-cysteine. Moreover, our results reveal that receptor oxidation occurs in cells that endogenously express physiologically relevant levels of β(2)AR, because treatment of human alveolar epithelial A549 cells with either H(2)O(2) or the β(2)-selective agonist formoterol promoted receptor S-sulfenation. These findings provide the first evidence, to our knowledge, that a mammalian GPCR can be oxidized by S-sulfenation and signify an important first step toward shedding light on the overlooked role of ROS in the regulation of β(2)AR function.

Physiology of microglia

Microglial cells are the resident macrophages in the central nervous system. These cells of mesodermal/mesenchymal origin migrate into all regions of the central nervous system, disseminate through the brain parenchyma, and acquire a specific ramified morphological phenotype termed "resting microglia." Recent studies indicate that even in the normal brain, microglia have highly motile processes by which they scan their territorial domains. By a large number of signaling pathways they can communicate with macroglial cells and neurons and with cells of the immune system. Likewise, microglial cells express receptors classically described for brain-specific communication such as neurotransmitter receptors and those first discovered as immune cell-specific such as for cytokines. Microglial cells are considered the most susceptible sensors of brain pathology. Upon any detection of signs for brain lesions or nervous system dysfunction, microglial cells undergo a complex, multistage activation process that converts them into the "activated microglial cell." This cell form has the capacity to release a large number of substances that can act detrimental or beneficial for the surrounding cells. Activated microglial cells can migrate to the site of injury, proliferate, and phagocytose cells and cellular compartments.

Interferon-γ plays a role in paraquat-induced neurodegeneration involving oxidative and proinflammatory pathways

Exposure to environmental contaminants, particularly pesticides, may be an important etiological factor in Parkinson's disease (PD); and evidence suggests a role for microglia-dependent inflammatory and oxidative processes in nigrostriatal pathology induced by such toxins. Yet, the events mediating microglial activation and their effects are not fully known. To this end, we hypothesized that the proinflammatory cytokine, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), may be a prime factor in the pathogenesis of PD, given its critical role in regulating microglial responses to pathogens. Indeed, the present investigation demonstrated that genetic deletion of IFN-γ protected substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopamine (DA) neurons from the toxic effects of the pesticide, paraquat, and normalized changes in inflammatory and oxidative factors within this brain region. Specifically, IFN-γ knockout prevented the paraquat-induced morphological signs of microglial activation and expression of key nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunits, while also preventing time-dependent changes in proinflammatory enzymes (inducible nitric oxide synthase [iNOS], cyclooxygenase-2 [COX-2]), cytokines (interleukin-1β [IL-1β], tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]), and signaling factors (c-Jun N-terminal kinase [JNK], p38 MAP kinase [p38], Signal transducer and activator of transcription-1 [STAT1], nuclear factor kappa B [NF-κB]). Moreover, paraquat transiently suppressed substantia nigra pars compacta expression of trophic and proneuroplastic factors (cyclic-AMP response element binding protein [CREB], brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF]), and IFN-γ deficiency again reversed these effects. These data suggest that IFN-γ is important for paraquat-induced neurodegeneration and the accompanying oxidative, inflammatory, and trophic changes that characterize the response to the toxin. Targeting IFN-γ could thus have therapeutic implications for PD and other neurodegenerative conditions that involve multiple inflammatory pathways.

β2-adrenergic receptor activation prevents rodent dopaminergic neurotoxicity by inhibiting microglia via a novel signaling pathway

The role of the β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR) in the regulation of chronic neurodegenerative inflammation within the CNS is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to determine neuroprotective effects of long-acting β2AR agonists such as salmeterol in rodent models of Parkinson's disease. Results showed salmeterol exerted potent neuroprotection against both LPS and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine/1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity both in primary neuron-glia cultures (at subnanomolar concentrations) and in mice (1-10 μg/kg/day doses). Further studies demonstrated that salmeterol-mediated neuroprotection is not a direct effect on neurons; instead, it is mediated through the inhibition of LPS-induced microglial activation. Salmeterol significantly inhibited LPS-induced production of microglial proinflammatory neurotoxic mediators, such as TNF-α, superoxide, and NO, as well as the inhibition of TAK1-mediated phosphorylation of MAPK and p65 NF-κB. The anti-inflammatory effects of salmeterol required β2AR expression in microglia but were not mediated through the conventional G protein-coupled receptor/cAMP pathway. Rather, salmeterol failed to induce microglial cAMP production, could not be reversed by either protein kinase A inhibitors or an exchange protein directly activated by cAMP agonist, and was dependent on β-arrestin2 expression. Taken together, our results demonstrate that administration of extremely low doses of salmeterol exhibit potent neuroprotective effects by inhibiting microglial cell activation through a β2AR/β-arrestin2-dependent but cAMP/protein kinase A-independent pathway.

Microglial activation and chronic neurodegeneration

Microglia, the resident innate immune cells in the brain, have long been implicated in the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases. Accumulating evidence points to activated microglia as a chronic source of multiple neurotoxic factors, including tumor necrosis factor-α, nitric oxide, interleukin-1β, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), driving progressive neuron damage. Microglia can become chronically activated by either a single stimulus (e.g., lipopolysaccharide or neuron damage) or multiple stimuli exposures to result in cumulative neuronal loss with time. Although the mechanisms driving these phenomena are just beginning to be understood, reactive microgliosis (the microglial response to neuron damage) and ROS have been implicated as key mechanisms of chronic and neurotoxic microglial activation, particularly in the case of Parkinson's disease. We review the mechanisms of neurotoxicity associated with chronic microglial activation and discuss the role of neuronal death and microglial ROS driving the chronic and toxic microglial phenotype.

Norepinephrine promotes microglia to uptake and degrade amyloid beta peptide through upregulation of mouse formyl peptide receptor 2 and induction of insulin-degrading enzyme

Locus ceruleus (LC) is the main subcortical site of norepinephrine synthesis. In Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and rodent models, degeneration of LC neurons and reduced levels of norepinephrine in LC projection areas are significantly correlated with the increase in amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and severity of dementia. Activated microglia play a pivotal role in the progression of AD by either clearing amyloid beta peptide (Abeta) deposits through uptake of Abeta or releasing cytotoxic substances and proinflammatory cytokines. Here, we investigated the effect of norepinephrine on Abeta uptake and clearance by murine microglia and explored the underlying mechanisms. We found that murine microglia cell line N9 and primary microglia expressed beta(2) adrenergic receptor (AR) but not beta(1) and beta(3)AR. Norepinephrine and isoproterenol upregulated the expression of Abeta receptor mFPR2, a mouse homolog of human formyl peptide receptor FPR2, through activation of beta(2)AR in microglia. Norepinephrine also induced mFPR2 expression in mouse brain. Activation of beta(2)AR in microglia promoted Abeta(42) uptake through upregulation of mFPR2 and enhanced spontaneous cell migration but had no effect on cell migration in response to mFPR2 agonists. Furthermore, activation of beta(2)AR on microglia induced the expression of insulin-degrading enzyme and increased the degradation of Abeta(42). Mechanistic studies showed that isoproterenol induced mFPR2 expression through ERK1/2-NF-kappaB and p38-NF-kappaB signaling pathways. These findings suggest that noradrenergic innervation from LC is needed to maintain adequate Abeta uptake and clearance by microglia, and norepinephrine is a link between neuron and microglia to orchestrate the host response to Abeta in AD.

Beta-adrenoceptor mediated surgery-induced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in rat microglia cells

Immunological changes initiated by major operative injury may result in inflammatory responses in both peripheral and central nervous system, which may lead to organ dysfunction. Recent studies indicate that beta-adrenergic receptors (beta-ARs) may mediate production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brain. In the present study propranolol (beta-AR antagonist), but not prazosin (alpha1-AR antagonist), antagonized surgical trauma induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production in microglia cells isolated from rats. beta-AR activation in the absence of pro-inflammatory stimuli increased IL-1beta, TNF-alpha and IL-6 mRNA and protein expressions in the primary microglia cell culture. Isoproterenol (beta-AR agonist) treatment induced a time- and concentration-dependent increase of IL-1beta in cells. Both ERK1/2 and P38 MAPK inhibitor, but not PKA and JNK1/2 inhibitor abrogated isoproterenol-induced IL-1beta and IL-6 production in microglia cells. In conclusion, the results suggest that beta-ARs possess pro-inflammatory properties by modulating the functions of microglia cell.