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Behl T, Kaur I, Sehgal A, Singh S, Sharma N, Gupta S, Albratty M, Najmi A, Alhazmi HA, Bungau S. AChE as a spark in the Alzheimer's blaze - Antagonizing effect of a cyclized variant. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 83:101787. [PMID: 36368649 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The amyloid precursor protein (APP), presenilin 1 (PS1), amyloid beta (Aβ), and GSK3 are the effectors, which are significantly associated with progression of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and its symptoms. A significant protein, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) becomes dysfunctional as a result of cholinergic neuronal loss in AD pathology. However, certain associated peptides potentiate the release of primary neuropathological hallmarks, i.e., senile plaque and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), by modulating the alpha 7 acetylcholinesterase receptor (α7nAChR). The AChE variants, T30 and T14 have also been found to be elevated in AD patients and mimic the toxic actions of pathological events in patients. The manuscript discusses the significance of AChE inhibitors in AD therapeutics, by indicating the disastrous role of molecular alterations and elevation of AChE, accompanied with the downstream effects instigated by the peptide, supported by clinical evidence and investigations. The cyclized variant of AChE peptide, NBP14 has been identified as a novel candidate that reverses the harmful effects of T30, T14 and Aβ, mainly calcium influx, cell viability and AChE release. The review aims to grab the attention of neuro-researchers towards the significance of triggering effectors in propagating AD and role of AChE in regulating them, which can potentially ace the development of reliable therapeutic candidates, similar to NBP14, to mitigate neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan Behl
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Bidohli, Uttarakhand, India.
| | - Ishnoor Kaur
- University of Glasgow, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- GHG Khalsa College of Pharmacy, Gurusar Sadhar, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Neelam Sharma
- MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Sumeet Gupta
- MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - Mohammed Albratty
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asim Najmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A Alhazmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia; Substance Abuse and Toxicology, Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania; Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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Bhat BA, Almilaibary A, Mir RA, Aljarallah BM, Mir WR, Ahmad F, Mir MA. Natural Therapeutics in Aid of Treating Alzheimer's Disease: A Green Gateway Toward Ending Quest for Treating Neurological Disorders. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:884345. [PMID: 35651632 PMCID: PMC9149276 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.884345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The current scientific community is facing a daunting challenge to unravel reliable natural compounds with realistic potential to treat neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The reported compounds/drugs mostly synthetic deemed the reliability and therapeutic potential largely due to their complexity and off-target issues. The natural products from nutraceutical compounds emerge as viable preventive therapeutics to fill the huge gap in treating neurological disorders. Considering that Alzheimer's disease is a multifactorial disease, natural compounds offer the advantage of a multitarget approach, tagging different molecular sites in the human brain, as compared with the single-target activity of most of the drugs so far used to treat Alzheimer's disease. A wide range of plant extracts and phytochemicals reported to possess the therapeutic potential to Alzheimer's disease includes curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, morin, delphinidins, quercetin, luteolin, oleocanthal, and other phytochemicals such as huperzine A, limonoids, and azaphilones. Reported targets of these natural compounds include inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, amyloid senile plaques, oxidation products, inflammatory pathways, specific brain receptors, etc. We tenaciously aimed to review the in-depth potential of natural products and their therapeutic applications against Alzheimer's disease, with a special focus on a diversity of medicinal plants and phytocompounds and their mechanism of action against Alzheimer's disease pathologies. We strongly believe that the medicinal plants and phytoconstituents alone or in combination with other compounds would be effective treatments against Alzheimer's disease with lesser side effects as compared to currently available treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basharat Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Abdullah Almilaibary
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Albaha University Alaqiq, Alaqiq, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rakeeb Ahmad Mir
- Department of Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, India
| | - Badr M. Aljarallah
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wajahat R. Mir
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Fuzail Ahmad
- College of Applied Medical Science, Majmaah University, Al Majma’ah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Manzoor Ahmad Mir
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
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3
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Liu J, Wang J, Xu W, Zeng L, Wang C, An Y, Tian H, Zeng B, Dong Q, Ji Y, Gao X, Du G, Liu J, Su J, Xie H, Xie L. Amyloid fibril formation by casein and fatty acid composition in breast milk of mastitis patients. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14183. [PMID: 35383958 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14183] [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: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Mastitis can cause changes in the nutrient composition of breast milk, which may be harmful to both newborns and lactating mothers. In this study we preliminarily evaluated amyloid fibrils formation by casein and fatty acids (FA), as well as their potential relation with each other in the breast milk of mastitis patients. Six healthy volunteers and six mastitis patients were recruited from the Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital in Changchun were enrolled. Amyloid fibril content was assessed by thioflavin T fluorescence analysis, transmission electron microscope, circular dichroism, and proton nuclear magnetic resonance. FA contents were measured by gas chromatography. Healthy breast milk contained no amyloid fibrils but inflammatory breast milk did. Several FAs (hendecanoic acid, myristolenic acid, pentadecenoic acid, eicosatrienoic acid) differed significantly between the two groups (p < .05). The concentrations of the eicosatrienoic acid and eleven carbonic acids in the inflammatory groups were lower than those in the healthy groups, but the myristolenic acid and pentadecenoic acid were the opposite trend. Early detection of amyloid fibrils should be performed in lactating mothers with mastitis. Changes in FAs may reflect the importance of abnormal metabolism in amyloid fibril formation. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The work preliminarily clarified the relationship between inflammation, fibril content, and fatty acid (FA) composition in breast milk. Healthy milk contained no amyloid fibril formed by casein but the inflammatory milk did. FAs were also significantly different between the two groups. Thus, an early determination of amyloid fibrils in milk should be considered for lactating women with mastitis to avoid the further malignant development. Additionally, the changes in FAs may reflect the importance of abnormal metabolism and oxidative pathways in amyloid fibril formation in the breast. Therefore, this study provided foundations for further investigation on the association between inflammation, fibril content and FA composition in breast milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihua Liu
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wenhui Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Zeng
- Bethune Institute of Epigenetic Medicine, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chunyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular, Structure and Materials, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yang An
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Huimin Tian
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Baohua Zeng
- Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Qinghai Dong
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ye Ji
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaojun Gao
- Department of Nephrology, Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - Guangguang Du
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jun Su
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongliu Xie
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Pharmacy College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lin Xie
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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A Synopsis of Multitarget Potential Therapeutic Effects of Huperzine A in Diverse Pathologies-Emphasis on Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:1166-1182. [PMID: 35122609 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03530-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Numerous challenges are confronted when it comes to the recognition of therapeutic agents for treating complex neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD). The perplexing pathogenicity of AD embodies cholinergic dysfunction, amyloid beta (Aβ) aggregation, neurofibrillary tangle formation, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial disruption along with vicious production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generating oxidative stress. In this frame of reference, drugs with multi target components could prove more advantageous to counter complex pathological mechanisms that are responsible for AD progression. For as much as, medicinal plant based pharmaco-therapies are emerging as potential candidates for AD treatment keeping the efficacy and safety parameters in terms of toxicity and side effects into consideration. Huperzine A (Hup A) is a purified alkaloid compound extracted from a club moss called Huperzia serrata. Several studies have reported both cholinergic and non-cholinergic effects of this compound on AD with significant neuroprotective properties. The present review convenes cumulative demonstrations of neuroprotection provided by Hup A in in vitro, in vivo, and human studies in various pathologies. The underlying molecular mechanisms of its actions have also been discussed. However, more profound evidence would certainly promote the therapeutic implementation of this drug thus furnishing decisive insights into AD therapeutics and various other pathologies along with preventive and curative management.
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Dorman G, Flores I, Gutiérrez C, Castaño RF, Aldecoa M, Kim L. Medicinal herbs and nutritional supplements for dementia therapy: potential therapeutic targets and clinical evidence. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 21:26-51. [PMID: 34370647 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666210809121230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Spices and herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Also, in the last decades, the use of different nutritional supplements has been implemented to treat all kinds of diseases, including those that present an alteration in cognitive functioning. Dementia is a clinical syndrome in which a person's mental and cognitive capacities gradually decline. As the disease progresses, the person's autonomy diminishes. As there is not an effective treatment to prevent progressive deterioration in many of these pathologies, nutritional interventions have been, and still are, one of the most widely explored therapeutic possibilities. In this review, we have discussed a great number of potentially interesting plants, nutritional derivatives and probiotics for the treatment of dementia around the world. Their action mechanisms generally involve neuroprotective effects via anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, b-amyloid and tau anti-aggregate actions; brain blood flow improvement, and effects on synaptic cholinergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission, which may optimize cognitive performance in patients with cognitive impairment. As for their efficacy in patients with cognitive impairment and/or dementias, evidence is still scarce and/or their outcomes are controversial. We consider that many of these substances have promising therapeutic properties. Therefore, the scientific community has to continue with a more complete research focused on both identifying possible action mechanisms and carrying out clinical trials, preferably randomized double-blind ones, with a greater number of patients, a long-term follow-up, dose standardization and the use of current diagnosis criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Dorman
- Division of Neurology, Ramos Mejia Hospital. Argentina
| | - Ignacio Flores
- Neuroscience Institute, Favaloro Foundation Hospital. Argentina
| | | | | | - Mayra Aldecoa
- Division of Neurology, Ramos Mejia Hospital. Argentina
| | - Leandro Kim
- Division of Neurology, Ramos Mejia Hospital. Argentina
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Dhage PA, Sharbidre AA, Dakua SP, Balakrishnan S. Leveraging hallmark Alzheimer's molecular targets using phytoconstituents: Current perspective and emerging trends. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111634. [PMID: 33965726 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a type of dementia, severely distresses different brain regions. Characterized by various neuropathologies, it interferes with cognitive functions and neuropsychiatrical controls. This progressive deterioration has negative impacts not only on an individual's daily activity but also on social and occupational life. The pharmacological approach has always remained in the limelight for the treatment of AD. However, this approach is condemned with several side effects. Henceforth, a change in treatment approach has become crucial. Plant-based natural products are garnering special attention due to lesser side effects associated with their use. The current review emphasizes the anti-AD properties of phytoconstituents, throws light on those under clinical trials, and compiles information on their specific mode of actions against AD-related different neuropathologies. The phytoconstituents alone or in combinations will surely help discover new potent drugs for the effective treatment of AD with lesser side effects than the currently available pharmacological treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prajakta A Dhage
- Department of Zoology, K.R.T. Arts, B.H. Commerce and A.M. Science College (KTHM College), Nashik 422002, MS, India
| | - Archana A Sharbidre
- Department of Zoology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune 411007, MS, India.
| | - Sarada P Dakua
- Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), 3050 Doha, Qatar
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Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a form of dementia with high impact worldwide, accounting with more than 46 million cases. It is estimated that the number of patients will be four times higher in 2050. The initial symptoms of AD are almost imperceptible and typically involve lapses of memory in recent events. However, the available medicines still focus on controlling the symptoms and do not cure the disease. Regarding the advances in the discovery of new treatments for this devastating disease, natural compounds are gaining increasing relevance in the treatment of AD. Nevertheless, they present some limiting characteristics such as the low bioavailability and the low ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) that hinder the development of effective therapies. To overcome these issues, the delivery of natural products by targeting nanocarriers has aroused a great interest, improving the therapeutic activity of these molecules. In this article, a review of the research progress on drug delivery systems (DDS) to improve the therapeutic activity of natural compounds with neuroprotective effects for AD is presented. Graphical abstract.
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Wen-Xia H, Zhong-Wen H, Min J, Han Z, Wei-Ze L, Li-Bin Y, Fei L, Lu H, Ning Z, Xiao-Feng L. Five novel and highly efficient endophytic fungi isolated from Huperzia serrata expressing huperzine A for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 104:9159-9177. [PMID: 32970179 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-020-10894-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Huperzine A (Hup A) is an important drug for treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mainly extracted from the Huperzia serrata (Thunb.) Trevis. (Lycopodiaceae) (HS). Nevertheless, the content of Hup A in HS is very low of 0.007% with growing circle of 8 to 10 years, and the chemical synthesis of Hup A still has some insurmountable limitations in the industrialized production. So, the available resources of Hup A for clinical treatment of AD are scarce. The purpose of this work was to construct a biosynthesis platform based on the endophytic fungi from HS. In this work, five endophytic fungi Mucor racemosus NSH-D, Mucor fragilis NSY-1, Fusarium verticillioides NSH-5, Fusarium oxysporum NSG-1, and Trichoderma harzianum NSW-V were firstly found and isolated from the Chinese folk medicine HS, which were identified according to their morphological characteristics and nuclear ribosomal DNA ITS sequences. The highest efficient fungus could effectively biosynthesize Hup A in a liquid culture of 319.8 ± 0.17 mg/L which were 112 times higher than that of other reported conventional endophytic fungi. Moreover, these fungi with higher hereditary stability could possess the initial expressing ability of Hup A after 40 generations, and the expressed Hup A from these biosynthesis systems has prior physicochemical properties, a better inhibition activity of acetylcholinesterase and a lower cytotoxicity compared with the listed active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) of Hup A. These results provide promising alternative resources for producing Hup A at an industrial scale by biosynthesis, and it may also shed light on millions of AD patients. KEY POINTS: • Five novel endophytic fungi with high stability could highly express prior Hup A Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wen-Xia
- College of Medical Technology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhong-Wen
- Department of Oncology, Fushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Tumor, Shijiazhuang, 050200, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Min
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Ischemic Cardiovascular Disease, Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhang Han
- College of Pharmacy, Xi'an Medical University, Xinwang road 1, Weiyang Zone, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Wei-Ze
- College of Pharmacy, Xi'an Medical University, Xinwang road 1, Weiyang Zone, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yang Li-Bin
- College of Pharmacy, Xi'an Medical University, Xinwang road 1, Weiyang Zone, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Fei
- College of Pharmacy, Xi'an Medical University, Xinwang road 1, Weiyang Zone, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Lu
- College of Pharmacy, Xi'an Medical University, Xinwang road 1, Weiyang Zone, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Ning
- College of Pharmacy, Xi'an Medical University, Xinwang road 1, Weiyang Zone, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Xiao-Feng
- College of Medical Technology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710021, People's Republic of China
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Wahid M, Ali A, Saqib F, Aleem A, Bibi S, Afzal K, Ali A, Baig A, Khan SA, Bin Asad MHH. Pharmacological exploration of traditional plants for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Phytother Res 2020; 34:3089-3112. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Muqeet Wahid
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan Pakistan
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan Pakistan
| | - Anam Ali
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan Pakistan
| | - Fatima Saqib
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan Pakistan
| | - Ambreen Aleem
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan Pakistan
| | - Sumbal Bibi
- Department of Pharmacy COMSATS University Islamabad Abbottabad Pakistan
| | - Khurram Afzal
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan Pakistan
| | - Atif Ali
- Department of Pharmacy COMSATS University Islamabad Abbottabad Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Baig
- Department of Biotechnology COMSATS University Islamabad Abbottabad Pakistan
| | - Shujaat Ali Khan
- Department of Pharmacy COMSATS University Islamabad Abbottabad Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hassham Hassan Bin Asad
- Department of Pharmacy COMSATS University Islamabad Abbottabad Pakistan
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology Kazan Federal University Kazan Russia
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Zafonte RD, Fregni F, Bergin MJG, Goldstein R, Boudreau N, Monge I, Luz M, Frazier J, Giacino JT. Huperzine A for the treatment of cognitive, mood, and functional deficits after moderate and severe TBI (HUP-TBI): results of a Phase II randomized controlled pilot study: implications for understanding the placebo effect. Brain Inj 2019; 34:34-41. [PMID: 31638455 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2019.1677941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the effect of Huperzine A on memory and learning in individuals with moderate-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).Design: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II clinical trial.Methods: Subjects were randomly assigned to receive Huperzine A or placebo for 12 weeks and were assessed during in-person visits at screening/baseline, and 6, 12, 24, and 52 weeks post-injury. Changes in memory and learning scores on the California Verbal Learning Test - 2nd Edition (CVLT-II) from baseline to week 12 were assessed using permutation tests and regression analyses.Results: There was no difference between the Huperzine A and placebo groups in memory performance after 12 weeks of treatment. In the placebo group, significant improvements were noted in learning and memory scores. Both groups showed clinically important improvements in depression on the Beck Depression Index.Conclusions: The clinically important improvements in cognitive and emotional outcomes observed in both the placebo and active treatment arms of this clinical trial of Huperzine A are best understood in the context of a placebo effect. Future trials involving patients with moderate-severe TBI in the subacute to chronic phases of recovery should be designed to account for placebo effects as failure to do so may lead to spurious conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross D Zafonte
- Department of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Felipe Fregni
- Department of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael J G Bergin
- Department of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard Goldstein
- Department of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nancy Boudreau
- Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Iris Monge
- Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Luz
- Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Judith Frazier
- Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joseph T Giacino
- Department of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Arslan T, Çakır N, Keleş T, Biyiklioglu Z, Senturk M. Triazole substituted metal-free, metallo-phthalocyanines and their water soluble derivatives as potential cholinesterases inhibitors: Design, synthesis and in vitro inhibition study. Bioorg Chem 2019; 90:103100. [PMID: 31288136 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In this study, 1,2,3-triazole substituted metal-free and metallo phthalocyanines (4, 5, 6) and their water soluble derivatives (4a, 5a, 6a) were designed, synthesized for the first time and tested in vitro on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes. Most phthalocyanines exhibited good inhibitory activities on these enzymes. Among the six phthalocyanines and starting compounds, 4a showed the most interesting profile as a submicromolar selective inhibitor of AChE (IC50 = 0.040 µM) and 5a showed the most effective inhibitor of BChE (IC50 = 0.1198 µM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayfun Arslan
- Giresun University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, 28200 Giresun, Turkey; Giresun University, Technical Sciences Vocational School, Department of Textile, Giresun University, 28049 Giresun, Turkey.
| | - Nezaket Çakır
- Giresun University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, 28200 Giresun, Turkey
| | - Turgut Keleş
- Karadeniz Technical University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, 61080 Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Zekeriya Biyiklioglu
- Karadeniz Technical University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, 61080 Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Murat Senturk
- Agri Ibrahim Cecen University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Basic Sciences of Pharmacy, 04100 Agri, Turkey
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Andrade S, Ramalho MJ, Loureiro JA, Pereira MDC. Natural Compounds for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2313. [PMID: 31083327 PMCID: PMC6539304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder related with the increase of age and it is the main cause of dementia in the world. AD affects cognitive functions, such as memory, with an intensity that leads to several functional losses. The continuous increase of AD incidence demands for an urgent development of effective therapeutic strategies. Despite the extensive research on this disease, only a few drugs able to delay the progression of the disease are currently available. In the last years, several compounds with pharmacological activities isolated from plants, animals and microorganisms, revealed to have beneficial effects for the treatment of AD, targeting different pathological mechanisms. Thus, a wide range of natural compounds may play a relevant role in the prevention of AD and have proven to be efficient in different preclinical and clinical studies. This work aims to review the natural compounds that until this date were described as having significant benefits for this neurological disease, focusing on studies that present clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Andrade
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Maria João Ramalho
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Joana Angélica Loureiro
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
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M344 promotes nonamyloidogenic amyloid precursor protein processing while normalizing Alzheimer's disease genes and improving memory. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E9135-E9144. [PMID: 29073110 PMCID: PMC5664514 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1707544114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Hundreds of failed clinical trials with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients over the last fifteen years demonstrate that the one-target–one-disease approach is not effective in AD. In silico, structure-based, multitarget drug design approaches to treat multifactorial diseases have not been successful in the context of AD either. Here, we show that M344, an inhibitor of class I and IIB histone deacetylases, affects multiple AD-related genes, including those related to both early- and late-onset AD. We also show that M344 improves memory in the 3xTg AD mouse model. This work endorses a shift to a multitargeted approach to the treatment of AD, supporting the therapeutic potential of a single small molecule with an epigenetic mechanism of action. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) comprises multifactorial ailments for which current therapeutic strategies remain insufficient to broadly address the underlying pathophysiology. Epigenetic gene regulation relies upon multifactorial processes that regulate multiple gene and protein pathways, including those involved in AD. We therefore took an epigenetic approach where a single drug would simultaneously affect the expression of a number of defined AD-related targets. We show that the small-molecule histone deacetylase inhibitor M344 reduces beta-amyloid (Aβ), reduces tau Ser396 phosphorylation, and decreases both β-secretase (BACE) and APOEε4 gene expression. M344 increases the expression of AD-relevant genes: BDNF, α-secretase (ADAM10), MINT2, FE65, REST, SIRT1, BIN1, and ABCA7, among others. M344 increases sAPPα and CTFα APP metabolite production, both cleavage products of ADAM10, concordant with increased ADAM10 gene expression. M344 also increases levels of immature APP, supporting an effect on APP trafficking, concurrent with the observed increase in MINT2 and FE65, both shown to increase immature APP in the early secretory pathway. Chronic i.p. treatment of the triple transgenic (APPsw/PS1M146V/TauP301L) mice with M344, at doses as low as 3 mg/kg, significantly prevented cognitive decline evaluated by Y-maze spontaneous alternation, novel object recognition, and Barnes maze spatial memory tests. M344 displays short brain exposure, indicating that brief pulses of daily drug treatment may be sufficient for long-term efficacy. Together, these data show that M344 normalizes several disparate pathogenic pathways related to AD. M344 therefore serves as an example of how a multitargeting compound could be used to address the polygenic nature of multifactorial diseases.
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Damar U, Gersner R, Johnstone JT, Schachter S, Rotenberg A. Huperzine A: A promising anticonvulsant, disease modifying, and memory enhancing treatment option in Alzheimer's disease. Med Hypotheses 2016; 99:57-62. [PMID: 28110700 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent cause of dementia. Besides cognitive deterioration, patients with AD are prone to seizures - more than 20% of patients diagnosed with AD experience at least one unprovoked seizure and up to 7% have recurrent seizures. Although available antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may suppress seizures in patients with AD, they may also worsen cognitive dysfunction and increase the risk of falls. On the basis of preclinical studies, we hypothesize that Huperzine A (HupA), a safe and potent acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor with potentially disease-modifying qualities in AD, may have a realistic role as an anticonvulsant in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugur Damar
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roman Gersner
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Steven Schachter
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexander Rotenberg
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Damar U, Gersner R, Johnstone JT, Schachter S, Rotenberg A. Huperzine A as a neuroprotective and antiepileptic drug: a review of preclinical research. Expert Rev Neurother 2016; 16:671-80. [PMID: 27086593 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2016.1175303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Huperzine A (HupA) is an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor extracted from Huperzia Serrata, a firmoss, which has been used for various diseases in traditional Chinese medicine for fever and inflammation. More recently, it has been used in Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia with a presumed mechanism of action via central nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. HupA is marketed as a dietary supplement in the U.S. This article reviews newly proposed neuroprotective and anticonvulsant HupA properties based on animal studies. HupA exerts its effects mainly via α7nAChRs and α4β2nAChRs, thereby producing a potent anti-inflammatory response by decreasing IL-1β, TNF-α protein expression, and suppressing transcriptional activation of NF-κB signaling. Thus, it provides protection from excitotoxicity and neuronal death as well as increase in GABAergic transmission associated with anticonvulsant activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Damar
- a F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology , Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
| | - R Gersner
- a F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology , Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
| | - J T Johnstone
- b Research and Development - Neurology , Biscayne Pharmaceuticals, Inc ., Miami , FL , USA
| | - S Schachter
- c Departments of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital , Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
| | - A Rotenberg
- a F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology , Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
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16
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Zha X, Lamba D, Zhang L, Lou Y, Xu C, Kang D, Chen L, Xu Y, Zhang L, De Simone A, Samez S, Pesaresi A, Stojan J, Lopez MG, Egea J, Andrisano V, Bartolini M. Novel Tacrine-Benzofuran Hybrids as Potent Multitarget-Directed Ligands for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and X-ray Crystallography. J Med Chem 2015; 59:114-31. [PMID: 26632651 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Twenty-six new tacrine-benzofuran hybrids were designed, synthesized, and evaluated in vitro on key molecular targets for Alzheimer's disease. Most hybrids exhibited good inhibitory activities on cholinesterases and β-amyloid self-aggregation. Selected compounds displayed significant inhibition of human β-secretase-1 (hBACE-1). Among the 26 hybrids, 2e showed the most interesting profile as a subnanomolar selective inhibitor of human acetylcholinesterase (hAChE) (IC50 = 0.86 nM) and a good inhibitor of both β-amyloid aggregation (hAChE- and self-induced, 61.3% and 58.4%, respectively) and hBACE-1 activity (IC50 = 1.35 μM). Kinetic studies showed that 2e acted as a slow, tight-binding, mixed-type inhibitor, while X-ray crystallographic studies highlighted the ability of 2e to induce large-scale structural changes in the active-site gorge of Torpedo californica AChE (TcAChE), with significant implications for structure-based drug design. In vivo studies confirmed that 2e significantly ameliorates performances of scopolamine-treated ICR mice. Finally, 2e administration did not exhibit significant hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Zha
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Doriano Lamba
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Area Science Park - Basovizza , S.S. no. 14 Km 163.5, I-34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Lili Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yinghan Lou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Changxu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Di Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | | | | | - Luyong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Screening, China Pharmaceutical University , 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Angela De Simone
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna , Corso d'Augusto 237, I-47921 Rimini, Italy
| | - Sarah Samez
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Area Science Park - Basovizza , S.S. no. 14 Km 163.5, I-34149 Trieste, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università di Trieste , Via L. Giorgieri 1, I-34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pesaresi
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Area Science Park - Basovizza , S.S. no. 14 Km 163.5, I-34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Jure Stojan
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana , Vrazov trg 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Manuela G Lopez
- Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Department of Pharmacology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid , C/Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Egea
- Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Department of Pharmacology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid , C/Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Vincenza Andrisano
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna , Corso d'Augusto 237, I-47921 Rimini, Italy
| | - Manuela Bartolini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna , Via Belmeloro 6, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
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Transcellular transport characteristics of huperzine alone or in combination with ginkgolide B across Caco-2 and Madin-Darby canine kidney cell monolayer. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2014; 7:889-94. [DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60155-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Huang XT, Qian ZM, He X, Gong Q, Wu KC, Jiang LR, Lu LN, Zhu ZJ, Zhang HY, Yung WH, Ke Y. Reducing iron in the brain: a novel pharmacologic mechanism of huperzine A in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2013; 35:1045-54. [PMID: 24332448 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2013.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2013] [Revised: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Huperzine A (HupA), a natural inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase derived from a plant, is a licensed anti-Alzheimer's disease (AD) drug in China and a nutraceutical in the United States. In addition to acting as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, HupA possesses neuroprotective properties. However, the relevant mechanism is unknown. Here, we showed that the neuroprotective effect of HupA was derived from a novel action on brain iron regulation. HupA treatment reduced insoluble and soluble beta amyloid levels, ameliorated amyloid plaques formation, and hyperphosphorylated tau in the cortex and hippocampus of APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic AD mice. Also, HupA decreased beta amyloid oligomers and amyloid precursor protein levels, and increased A Disintegrin And Metalloprotease Domain 10 (ADAM10) expression in these treated AD mice. However, these beneficial effects of HupA were largely abolished by feeding the animals with a high iron diet. In parallel, we found that HupA decreased iron content in the brain and demonstrated that HupA also has a role to reduce the expression of transferrin-receptor 1 as well as the transferrin-bound iron uptake in cultured neurons. The findings implied that reducing iron in the brain is a novel mechanism of HupA in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Tian Huang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong-Ming Qian
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xuan He
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qi Gong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka-Chun Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Li-Rong Jiang
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Na Lu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhou-Jing Zhu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hai-Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Wing-Ho Yung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ya Ke
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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19
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has been proposed as a condition of intermediate symptomatology between the cognitive changes of ageing and fully developed symptoms of dementia. Treatment in the stages of MCI may delay the deterioration of cognitive impairment and delay the progression to dementia. Currently, the treatments for Alzheimer's disease have been focused on increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain. However, these drugs have not been proven to be effective for MCI and have numerous side effects. Huperzine A may have some beneficial effects in MCI. OBJECTIVES To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of huperzine A for the treatment of patients with MCI. SEARCH METHODS We searched ALOIS: the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialized Register on 23 May 2011 using the terms: huperzine, ayapin, scoparon. ALOIS contains records of clinical trials identified from monthly searches of a number of major healthcare databases, numerous trial registries and grey literature sources. Additional searches were also performed separately in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, LILACS, clinicalTrials.gov, the ICTRP (WHO portal), CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library) and Web of Science with Conference Proceedings.The following Chinese databases were searched: The Chinese Biomedical Database, VIP Chinese Science and Technique Journals Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and The Chinese Clinical Trials Register. In addition, we handsearched 20 Chinese traditional medicine journals from between 1970 and 1989. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trials comparing huperzine A with placebo in patients with MCI were eligible for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed studies for their eligibility for inclusion. MAIN RESULTS No eligible trials were identified. In the absence of any suitable randomised placebo-controlled trials in this area, we were unable to perform a meta-analysis. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The currently available evidence is insufficient to assess the potential for huperzine A in the treatment of MCI. Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jirong Yue
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of GeriatricsNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduChina610041
| | - Bi Rong Dong
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of GeriatricsNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduChina610041
| | - Xiufang Lin
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of GeriatricsNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduChina610041
| | - Ming Yang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of GeriatricsNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduChina610041
| | - Hong Mei Wu
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of GeriatricsNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduChina610041
| | - Taixiang Wu
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChinese Clinical Trial Registry, Chinese Ethics Committee of Registering Clinical TrialsNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduChina610041
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20
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Abstract
(−)-Huperzine A (1) is an alkaloid isolated from a Chinese club moss. Due to its potent neuroprotective activities, it has been investigated as a candidate for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. In this review, we will discuss the pharmacology and therapeutic potential of (−)-huperzine A (1). Synthetic studies of (−)-huperzine A (1) aimed at enabling its development as a pharmaceutical will be described.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seth B Herzon
- Department of Chemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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21
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Ebrahimi A, Schluesener H. Natural polyphenols against neurodegenerative disorders: potentials and pitfalls. Ageing Res Rev 2012; 11:329-45. [PMID: 22336470 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2012.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Revised: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Within the last years, a rapidly growing number of polyphenolic compounds with neuroprotective effects have been described. Many efforts have been made to explore the mechanisms behind the neuroprotective action of polyphenols. However, many pathways and mechanisms considered for mediating these effects are rather general than specific. Moreover, despite the beneficial effects of polyphenols in experimental treatment of neurodegeneration, little has been achieved in bringing them into routine clinical applications. In this review, we have summarized the protective effects of polyphenols against neurodegeneration, and we have also discussed some of the barricades in translating these biochemical compounds, into relevant therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases.
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22
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Ha GT, Wong RK, Zhang Y. Huperzine a as potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease: an assessment on chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical studies. Chem Biodivers 2011; 8:1189-204. [PMID: 21766442 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.201000269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the fourth leading cause of death in adults, characterized by hallmark neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Current treatments focus only on symptom relief. As a possible new treatment option for AD, huperzine A's chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical effectiveness are assessed. The chemical synthesis of huperzine A has been optimized, while an in vitro technique has provided a renewable plant source. Pharmacological studies showed that the drug inhibits the enzyme acetylcholinesterase reversibly and selectively. Huperzine A also displayed good pharmacokinetics with a rapid absorption and a wide distribution in the body at a low to moderate rate of elimination. Presently, inadequate toxicity data in human have been reported, yet animal studies demonstrated mild to moderate cholinergic side effects at therapeutic doses. Previous clinical trials have shown improvement in memory function using MMSE, MQ, ADAS-COG, and ADL tests. In an unpublished phase II clinical trial, the ADAS-COG and MMSE tests indicated cognitive enhancement at a dose of 0.4 mg, yet no improvement was observed at a dose of 0.2 mg. The MMSE scores indicated cognitive enhancement at 0.4 mg. Promising data suggested that huperzine A is well tolerated at doses up to 0.4 mg for 24 weeks. Therefore, huperzine A seems to be a potential treatment option for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giang T Ha
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, USA
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23
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García-Ayllón MS, Small DH, Avila J, Sáez-Valero J. Revisiting the Role of Acetylcholinesterase in Alzheimer's Disease: Cross-Talk with P-tau and β-Amyloid. Front Mol Neurosci 2011; 4:22. [PMID: 21949503 PMCID: PMC3171929 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2011.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A common feature in the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brain is the presence of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) which is commonly associated with β-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT). Although our understanding of the relationship between AChE and the pathological features of AD is incomplete, increasing evidence suggests that both β-amyloid protein (Aβ) and abnormally hyperphosphorylated tau (P-tau) can influence AChE expression. We also review recent findings which suggest the possible role of AChE in the development of a vicious cycle of Aβ and P-tau dysregulation and discuss the limited and temporary effect of therapeutic intervention with AChE inhibitors.
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24
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Silveyra MX, García-Ayllón MS, Serra-Basante C, Mazzoni V, García-Gutierrez MS, Manzanares J, Culvenor JG, Sáez-Valero J. Changes in acetylcholinesterase expression are associated with altered presenilin-1 levels. Neurobiol Aging 2011; 33:627.e27-37. [PMID: 21621296 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2011.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2010] [Revised: 02/10/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We have previously identified presenilin-1 (PS1), the active component of the γ-secretase complex, as an interacting protein of the amyloid-associated enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). In this study, we have explored the consequences of AChE-PS1 interactions. Treatment of SH-SY5Y cells with the AChE-inhibitor tacrine decreased PS1 levels, in parallel with increase in the secretion of amyloid precursor protein APPα, whereas the cholinergic agonist carbachol had no effect on PS1. AChE knockdown with siRNA also decreased PS1 levels, while AChE overexpression exerted opposing effect. AChE-deficient also had decreased PS1. Mice administered with tacrine or donepezil displayed lower levels of brain PS1. However, sustained AChE inhibition failed to exert long-term effect on PS1. This limited duration of response may be due to AChE upregulation caused by chronic inhibition. Finally, we exposed SH-SY5Y cells to β-amyloid (Aβ)42 which triggered elevation of both AChE and PS1 levels. The Aβ42-induced PS1 increase was abolished by siRNA AChE pretreatment, suggesting that AChE may participate in the pathological feedback loop between PS1 and Aβ. Our results provide insight into AChE-amyloid interrelationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- María-Ximena Silveyra
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, Sant Joan d'Alacant, Alicante, Spain
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Establishment and characterization of RNA-edited serotonin 2C receptor isoform cell models and alteration of amyloid precursor protein ectodomain secretion in HEK293 APPSwe cells. Hum Cell 2011; 24:104-11. [PMID: 21584765 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-011-0014-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2010] [Accepted: 01/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
RNA editing is a mechanism for generating molecular diversity by altering the genetic code at the level of RNA. The 5-HT(2C) receptor is the only G protein-coupled receptor known to be edited. It has been reported that the non-edited 5-HT(2C) receptor stimulates secretion of the APP metabolite APP ectodomain (APPs). However, it remains unknown whether RNA-edited 5-HT(2C) receptors can also affect APPs secretion. In this study, cDNAs of five non-edited or partially/fully edited 5-HT(2C) receptor isoforms (INI, VNI, VNV, VSV and VGV) were stably transfected into HEK293APPSwe cells to detect the cell proliferation and APPs secretion. The results demonstrated that the overexpression of INI and VNI caused increased proliferation of host cells while VNV, VSV and VGV caused inverse effects (P < 0.01). Compared with both control and non-edited isoform INI, APPs levels were significantly increased in the four edited 5-HT(2C) receptor isoforms, VNI (P < 0.05), VNV (P < 0.05), VSV (P < 0.05) and VGV (P < 0.01). These results suggest that the RNA editing of the 5-HT(2C) receptor may affect APPs secretion through different signaling pathways related to cell growth and protein processing, and that these cell models will provide appropriate useful information to study the association between the RNA editing of the serotonin 5-HT(2C) receptor and APP metabolism.
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Huperzine A activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling and enhances the nonamyloidogenic pathway in an Alzheimer transgenic mouse model. Neuropsychopharmacology 2011; 36:1073-89. [PMID: 21289607 PMCID: PMC3077275 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2010.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Huperzine A (HupA) is a reversible and selective inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and it has multiple targets when used for Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapy. In this study, we searched for new mechanisms by which HupA could activate Wnt signaling and reduce amyloidosis in AD brain. A nasal gel containing HupA was prepared. No obvious toxicity of intranasal administration of HupA was found in mice. HupA was administered intranasally to β-amyloid (Aβ) precursor protein and presenilin-1 double-transgenic mice for 4 months. We observed an increase in ADAM10 and a decrease in BACE1 and APP695 protein levels and, subsequently, a reduction in Aβ levels and Aβ burden were present in HupA-treated mouse brain, suggesting that HupA enhances the nonamyloidogenic APP cleavage pathway. Importantly, our results further showed that HupA inhibited GSK3α/β activity, and enhanced the β-catenin level in the transgenic mouse brain and in SH-SY5Y cells overexpressing Swedish mutation APP, suggesting that the neuroprotective effect of HupA is not related simply to its AChE inhibition and antioxidation, but also involves other mechanisms, including targeting of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in AD brain.
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Jesky R, Hailong C. Are Herbal Compounds the Next Frontier for Alleviating Learning and Memory Impairments? An Integrative Look at Memory, Dementia and the Promising Therapeutics of Traditional Chinese Medicines. Phytother Res 2011; 25:1105-18. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2010] [Revised: 11/18/2010] [Accepted: 11/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Jesky
- Department of General Surgery-Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine; 1st Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University; No. 222, Zhongshan Road, Xigang District Dalian China
| | - Chen Hailong
- Department of General Surgery-Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine; 1st Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University; No. 222, Zhongshan Road, Xigang District Dalian China
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Mishra M, Huang J, Lee YY, Chua DSK, Lin X, Hu JM, Heese K. Gastrodia elata modulates amyloid precursor protein cleavage and cognitive functions in mice. Biosci Trends 2011; 5:129-38. [DOI: 10.5582/bst.2011.v5.3.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Mishra
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Nanyang Technological University
- Institute of Advanced Studies, Nanyang Technological University
| | - Junjie Huang
- Institute of Advanced Studies, Nanyang Technological University
| | - Yin Yeng Lee
- Institute of Advanced Studies, Nanyang Technological University
| | | | - Xiaoyan Lin
- Institute of Advanced Studies, Nanyang Technological University
| | - Jiang-Miao Hu
- Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Science
| | - Klaus Heese
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Nanyang Technological University
- Institute of Advanced Studies, Nanyang Technological University
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L-3-n-butylphthalide improves cognitive impairment and reduces amyloid-beta in a transgenic model of Alzheimer's disease. J Neurosci 2010; 30:8180-9. [PMID: 20554868 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0340-10.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that occurs gradually and results in memory, behavior, and personality changes. L-3-n-butylphthalide (L-NBP), an extract from seeds of Apium graveolens Linn (Chinese celery), has been demonstrated to have neuroprotective effects on ischemic, vascular dementia, and amyloid-beta (Abeta)-infused animal models. In the current study, we examined the effects of L-NBP on learning and memory in a triple-transgenic AD mouse model (3xTg-AD) that develops both plaques and tangles with aging, as well as cognitive deficits. Ten-month-old 3xTg-AD mice were given 15 mg/kg L-NBP by oral gavage for 18 weeks. L-NBP treatment significantly improved learning deficits, as well as long-term spatial memory, compared with vehicle control treatment. L-NBP treatment significantly reduced total cerebral Abeta plaque deposition and lowered Abeta levels in brain homogenates but had no effect on fibrillar Abeta plaques, suggesting preferential removal of diffuse Abeta deposits. Furthermore, we found that L-NBP markedly enhanced soluble amyloid precursor protein secretion (alphaAPPs), alpha-secretase, and PKCalpha expression but had no effect on steady-state full-length APP. Thus, L-NBP may direct APP processing toward a non-amyloidogenic pathway and preclude Abeta formation in the 3xTg-AD mice. The effect of l-NBP on regulating APP processing was further confirmed in neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells overexpressing wild-type human APP(695) (SK-N-SH APPwt). L-NBP treatment in 3xTg-AD mice also reduced glial activation and oxidative stress compared with control treatment. L-NBP shows promising preclinical potential as a multitarget drug for the prevention and/or treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Koshiba
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yokoshima
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Tohru Fukuyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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Li W, Mak M, Jiang H, Wang Q, Pang Y, Chen K, Han Y. Novel anti-Alzheimer's dimer Bis(7)-cognitin: cellular and molecular mechanisms of neuroprotection through multiple targets. Neurotherapeutics 2009; 6:187-201. [PMID: 19110209 PMCID: PMC5084266 DOI: 10.1016/j.nurt.2008.10.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive and degenerative brain disorder that has emerged as one of the major public health problems in adults. Unfortunately, its molecular pathology and therapeutic strategies remain elusive. Because there are multiple factors closely indicated in the pathogenesis of AD, multiple drug therapy will be required to address the varied pathological aspects of this disease. Existing pharmacological approaches with one-molecule-one-target are limited in their ability to modify the pathology of AD. Novel therapeutics strategies comprise multifunctional compounds specifically designed to target concurrently on different sites at multifactorial etiopathogenesis of AD, thereby providing greater therapeutic efficacy. Over the past decade, our group has developed several series of dimeric acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors derived from tacrine and huperzine A, a unique anti-Alzheimer's drug originally discovered from a traditional Chinese medicinal plant. Bis(7)-Cognitin, one of our novel dimers, through inhibition of AChE, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, nitric oxide synthase, and amyloid precursor protein/beta-amyloid cascade concurrently, possesses remarkable neuroprotective activities. More importantly, the synergism between these targets might serve as one of the most effective therapeutic strategies to arrest/modify pathological process of AD in addition to improving the cognitive functions for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenming Li
- Department of Applied Biology & Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Marvin Mak
- Department of Applied Biology & Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- grid.419093.60000000406198396Center for Drug Discovery and Design, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Media, 201203 Shanghai, China
| | - Qinwen Wang
- grid.203507.30000000089505267Department of Physiology, Medical School, Ningbo University, 315211 Ningbo, China
| | - Yuanping Pang
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 55905 Rochester, MN
| | - Kaixian Chen
- grid.419093.60000000406198396Center for Drug Discovery and Design, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Media, 201203 Shanghai, China
| | - Yifan Han
- Department of Applied Biology & Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Complement C3 deficiency leads to accelerated amyloid beta plaque deposition and neurodegeneration and modulation of the microglia/macrophage phenotype in amyloid precursor protein transgenic mice. J Neurosci 2008; 28:6333-41. [PMID: 18562603 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0829-08.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Complement factor C3 is the central component of the complement system and a key inflammatory protein activated in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previous studies demonstrated that inhibition of C3 by overexpression of soluble complement receptor-related protein y in an AD mouse model led to reduced microgliosis, increased amyloid beta (Abeta) plaque burden, and neurodegeneration. To further address the role of C3 in AD pathology, we generated a complement C3-deficient amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgenic AD mouse model (APP;C3(-/-)). Brains were analyzed at 8, 12, and 17 months of age by immunohistochemical and biochemical methods and compared with age-matched APP transgenic mice. At younger ages (8-12 months), no significant neuropathological differences were observed between the two transgenic lines. In contrast, at 17 months of age, APP;C3(-/-) mice showed significant changes of up to twofold increased total Abeta and fibrillar amyloid plaque burden in midfrontal cortex and hippocampus, which correlated with (1) significantly increased Tris-buffered saline (TBS)-insoluble Abeta(42) levels and reduced TBS-soluble Abeta(42) and Abeta(40) levels in brain homogenates, (2) a trend for increased Abeta levels in the plasma, (3) a significant loss of neuronal-specific nuclear protein-positive neurons in the hippocampus, and (4) differential activation of microglia toward a more alternative phenotype (e.g., significantly increased CD45-positive microglia, increased brain levels of interleukins 4 and 10, and reduced levels of CD68, F4/80, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and tumor necrosis factor). Our results suggest a beneficial role for complement C3 in plaque clearance and neuronal health as well as in modulation of the microglia phenotype.
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Zhang HY, Zheng CY, Yan H, Wang ZF, Tang LL, Gao X, Tang XC. Potential therapeutic targets of huperzine A for Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Chem Biol Interact 2008; 175:396-402. [PMID: 18565502 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2008.04.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2007] [Revised: 04/22/2008] [Accepted: 04/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Huperzine A (HupA), a novel Lycopodium alkaloid isolated from Chinese folk medicine Huperzia serrata (Qian Ceng Ta), is a potent, selective and well-tolerated inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). It has been proven to significantly improve the learning and memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) patients in China. Interestingly, our recent data indicate that HupA also possesses other protective functions. This paper will give an overview on the protective effects of HupA, which includes regulating beta-amyloid precursor protein (APP) metabolism, protecting against Abeta-mediated oxidative stress, apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as anti-inflammation. The multiple neuroprotective effects of HupA might yield additional beneficial effects in AD and VaD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zu Chong Zhi Road, Shanghai, China
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Little JT, Walsh S, Aisen PS. An update on huperzine A as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2008; 17:209-15. [PMID: 18230054 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.17.2.209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Huperzine A is a natural cholinesterase inhibitor derived from the Chinese herb Huperzia serrata. There is evidence that huperzine A may compare favorably in symptomatic efficacy to cholinesterase inhibitors in use. In addition, huperzine A has antioxidant and neuroprotective properties that suggest that it may be useful as a disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD). The drug is available as a nutriceutical in the US. However, there have been no published controlled clinical trials outside China assessing its toxicity and efficacy. This paper reviews the development of huperzine A as a treatment for AD, including the Phase II trial now under way in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Little
- Georgetown University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, 3800 Reservoir Road, NW, Kober-Cogan 604, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
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Fu H, Li W, Luo J, Lee NT, Li M, Tsim KW, Pang Y, Youdim MB, Han Y. Promising anti-Alzheimer’s dimer bis(7)-tacrine reduces β-amyloid generation by directly inhibiting BACE-1 activity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2008; 366:631-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.11.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2007] [Accepted: 11/15/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Ikin AF, Causevic M, Pedrini S, Benson LS, Buxbaum JD, Suzuki T, Lovestone S, Higashiyama S, Mustelin T, Burgoyne RD, Gandy S. Evidence against roles for phorbol binding protein Munc13-1, ADAM adaptor Eve-1, or vesicle trafficking phosphoproteins Munc18 or NSF as phospho-state-sensitive modulators of phorbol/PKC-activated Alzheimer APP ectodomain shedding. Mol Neurodegener 2007; 2:23. [PMID: 18067682 PMCID: PMC2211485 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1326-2-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2007] [Accepted: 12/09/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Shedding of the Alzheimer amyloid precursor protein (APP) ectodomain can be accelerated by phorbol esters, compounds that act via protein kinase C (PKC) or through unconventional phorbol-binding proteins such as Munc13-1. We have previously demonstrated that application of phorbol esters or purified PKC potentiates budding of APP-bearing secretory vesicles at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and toward the plasma membrane where APP becomes a substrate for enzymes responsible for shedding, known collectively as α-secretase(s). However, molecular identification of the presumptive "phospho-state-sensitive modulators of ectodomain shedding" (PMES) responsible for regulated shedding has been challenging. Here, we examined the effects on APP ectodomain shedding of four phorbol-sensitive proteins involved in regulation of vesicular membrane trafficking of APP: Munc13-1, Munc18, NSF, and Eve-1. Results Overexpression of either phorbol-sensitive wildtype Munc13-1 or phorbol-insensitive Munc13-1 H567K resulted in increased basal APP ectodomain shedding. However, in contrast to the report of Roßner et al (2004), phorbol ester-dependent APP ectodomain shedding from cells overexpressing APP and Munc13-1 wildtype was indistinguishable from that observed following application of phorbol to cells overexpressing APP and Munc13-1 H567K mutant. This pattern of similar effects on basal and stimulated APP shedding was also observed for Munc18 and NSF. Eve-1, an ADAM adaptor protein reported to be essential for PKC-regulated shedding of pro-EGF, was found to play no obvious role in regulated shedding of sAPPα. Conclusion Our results indicate that, in the HEK293 system, Munc13-1, Munc18, NSF, and EVE-1 fail to meet essential criteria for identity as PMES for APP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annat F Ikin
- Farber Institute for Neurosciences of Thomas Jefferson University, 900 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, 19107, PA, USA.
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Peng Y, Lee DYW, Jiang L, Ma Z, Schachter SC, Lemere CA. Huperzine A regulates amyloid precursor protein processing via protein kinase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways in neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells over-expressing wild type human amyloid precursor protein 695. Neuroscience 2007; 150:386-95. [PMID: 17945434 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2007.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2007] [Revised: 09/04/2007] [Accepted: 10/04/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-secretase (alpha-secretase), cleaves the amyloid precursor protein (APP) within the amyloid-beta (Abeta) sequence, resulting in the release of a secreted fragment of APP (alphaAPPs) and precluding Abeta generation. We investigated the effects of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, huperzine A (Hup A), on APP processing and Abeta generation in human neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells overexpressing wild-type human APP695. Hup A dose-dependently (0-10 microM) increased alphaAPPs release. Therefore, we evaluated two alpha-secretase candidates, a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) 10 and ADAM17 in Hup A-induced non-amyloidogenic APP metabolism. Hup A enhanced the level of ADAM10, and the inhibitor of tumor necrosis factor-alpha converting enzyme (TACE)/ADAM17 inhibited the Hup A-induced rise in alphaAPPs levels, further suggesting Hup A directed APP metabolism toward the non-amyloidogenic alpha-secretase pathway. Hup A had no effect on Abeta generation in this cell line. The steady-state levels of full-length APP and cell viability were unaffected by Hup A. Alpha-APPs release induced by Hup A treatment was significantly reduced by muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists (particularly by an M1 antagonist), protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors, GF109203X and calphostin C, and the mitogen-activated kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors, U0126 and PD98059. Furthermore, Hup A markedly increased the phosphorylation of p44/p42 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, which was blocked by treatment with U0126 and PD98059. In addition, Hup A inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity by 20% in neuroblastoma cells. Our results indicate that the activation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, PKC and MAP kinase may be involved in Hup A-induced alphaAPPs secretion in neuroblastoma cells and suggest multiple pharmacological mechanisms of Hup A regarding the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Peng
- Center for Neurologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard New Research Building, Room 636F, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Zhang HY, Tang XC. Neuroprotective effects of huperzine A: new therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative disease. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2006; 27:619-25. [PMID: 17056129 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2006.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2006] [Revised: 09/13/2006] [Accepted: 10/09/2006] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the most common pharmacological treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition. However, this single-target approach has limited effectiveness and there is evidence that a multitarget approach might be more effective. Huperzine A (HupA), a novel alkaloid isolated from a Chinese herb, has neuroprotective effects that go beyond the inhibition of AChE. Recent data have demonstrated that HupA can ameliorate the learning and memory deficiency in animal models and AD patients. Its potentially beneficial actions include modification of beta-amyloid peptide processing, reduction of oxidative stress, neuronal protection against apoptosis, and regulation of the expression and secretion of nerve growth factor (NGF) and NGF signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai 201203, China
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