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Denaro S, D'Aprile S, Torrisi F, Zappalà A, Marrazzo A, Al-Khrasani M, Pasquinucci L, Vicario N, Parenti R, Parenti C. Sigma-1 receptor targeting inhibits connexin 43 based intercellular communication in chronic neuropathic pain. Inflamm Res 2024; 73:1711-1726. [PMID: 39095656 PMCID: PMC11445328 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-024-01926-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition characterized by aberrant signaling within the somatosensory system, affecting millions of people worldwide with limited treatment options. Herein, we aim at investigating the potential of a sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) antagonist in managing neuropathic pain. METHODS A Chronic Constriction Injury (CCI) model was used to induce neuropathic pain. The potential of (+)-MR200 was evaluated following daily subcutaneous injections of the compound. Its mechanism of action was confirmed by administration of a well-known σ1R agonist, PRE084. RESULTS (+)-MR200 demonstrated efficacy in protecting neurons from damage and alleviating pain hypersensitivity in CCI model. Our results suggest that (+)-MR200 reduced the activation of astrocytes and microglia, cells known to contribute to the neuroinflammatory process, suggesting that (+)-MR200 may not only address pain symptoms but also tackle the underlying cellular mechanism involved. Furthermore, (+)-MR200 treatment normalized levels of the gap junction (GJ)-forming protein connexin 43 (Cx43), suggesting a reduction in harmful intercellular communication that could fuel the chronicity of pain. CONCLUSIONS This approach could offer a neuroprotective strategy for managing neuropathic pain, addressing both pain symptoms and cellular processes driving the condition. Understanding the dynamics of σ1R expression and function in neuropathic pain is crucial for clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Denaro
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona D'Aprile
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Torrisi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna "Kore", 94100, Enna, Italy
| | - Agata Zappalà
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Section of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Mahmoud Al-Khrasani
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lorella Pasquinucci
- Section of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - Nunzio Vicario
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
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López-Estévez S, Aguilera M, Gris G, de la Puente B, Carceller A, Martínez V. Genetic and Pharmacological Blockade of Sigma-1 Receptors Attenuates Inflammation-Associated Hypersensitivity during Acute Colitis in CD1 Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2758. [PMID: 37893131 PMCID: PMC10604167 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sigma-1 receptors (σ1Rs) are implicated in nociception, including pain sensitization, and inflammation. We assessed the role of σ1Rs on acute colitis-associated hypersensitivity using both genetic (constitutive knockout) and pharmacological blockade of the receptor. Colitis was induced in CD1 wild-type (WT) and σ1R KO mice (exposure to dextran sodium sulfate, 3%). A von Frey test was used to assess referred mechanosensitivity (abdominal and plantar withdrawal responses). The effects of the selective σ1R antagonists BD1063 and E-52862 were also assessed in WT animals. The expression of immune and sensory-related markers (RT-qPCR, Western blot) was assessed in the colon and lumbosacral spinal cord. The genetic ablation or pharmacological blockade of σ1Rs attenuated acute colonic inflammation in a similar manner. Mechanosensitivity was similar in WT and σ1R KO mice before colitis. In WT mice, but not in σ1R KO, colitis was associated with the development of referred mechanical hypersensitivity, manifested as a reduction in the withdrawal thresholds to mechanical probing (paw and abdominal wall). In WT mice, BD1063 and E-52862 blocked colitis-associated hypersensitivity. A genotype- and treatment-related differential regulation of sensory-related markers was detected locally (colon) and within the spinal cord. σ1Rs are involved in the development of acute intestinal inflammation and its associated referred mechanical hypersensitivity. The selective modulation of sensory-related pathways within the colon and spinal cord might be part of the underlying mechanisms. These observations support the pharmacological use of σ1R antagonists for the treatment of intestinal inflammation-induced hypersensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio López-Estévez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.L.-E.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mònica Aguilera
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.L.-E.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Georgia Gris
- Department of Pharmacology, Welab Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.G.); (B.d.l.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Beatriz de la Puente
- Department of Pharmacology, Welab Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.G.); (B.d.l.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Alicia Carceller
- Department of Pharmacology, Welab Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.G.); (B.d.l.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Vicente Martínez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.L.-E.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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Turnaturi R, Chiechio S, Pasquinucci L, Spoto S, Costanzo G, Dichiara M, Piana S, Grasso M, Amata E, Marrazzo A, Parenti C. Novel N-normetazocine Derivatives with Opioid Agonist/Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonist Profile as Potential Analgesics in Inflammatory Pain. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27165135. [PMID: 36014375 PMCID: PMC9413390 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common drugs used in persistent pain treatment; they have shown many side effects. The development of new analgesics endowed with mu opioid receptor/delta opioid receptor (MOR/DOR) activity represents a promising alternative to MOR-selective compounds. Moreover, new mechanisms, such as sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) antagonism, could be an opioid adjuvant strategy. The in vitro σ1R and σ2R profiles of previous synthesized MOR/DOR agonists (−)-2R/S-LP2 (1), (−)-2R-LP2 (2), and (−)-2S-LP2 (3) were assayed. To investigate the pivotal role of N-normetazocine stereochemistry, we also synthesized the (+)-2R/S-LP2 (7), (+)-2R-LP2 (8), and (+)-2S-LP2 (9) compounds. (−)-2R/S-LP2 (1), (−)-2R-LP2 (2), and (−)-2S-LP2 (3) compounds have Ki values for σ1R ranging between 112.72 and 182.81 nM, showing a multitarget opioid/σ1R profile. Instead, (+)-2R/S-LP2 (7), (+)-2R-LP2 (8), and (+)-2S-LP2 (9) isomers displayed a nanomolar affinity for σ1R, with significative selectivity vs. σ2R and opioid receptors. All isomers were evaluated using an in vivo formalin test. (−)-2S-LP2, at 0.7 mg/kg i.p., showed a significative and naloxone-reversed analgesic effect. The σ1R selective compound (+)-2R/S-LP2 (7), at 5.0 mg/kg i.p., decreased the second phase of the formalin test, showing an antagonist σ1R profile. The multitarget or single target profile of assayed N-normetazocine derivatives could represent a promising pharmacological strategy to enhance opioid potency and/or increase the safety margin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Turnaturi
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Santina Chiechio
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy
| | - Lorella Pasquinucci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-738-4273
| | - Salvatore Spoto
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuliana Costanzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia, 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Dichiara
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Silvia Piana
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Emanuele Amata
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
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Mu and Delta Opioid Receptor Targeting Reduces Connexin 43-Based Heterocellular Coupling during Neuropathic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115864. [PMID: 35682543 PMCID: PMC9180638 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic pain emerges from either central or peripheral lesions inducing spontaneous or amplified responses to non-noxious stimuli. Despite different pharmacological approaches to treat such a chronic disease, neuropathic pain still represents an unmet clinical need, due to long-term therapeutic regimens and severe side effects that limit application of currently available drugs. A critical phenomenon involved in central sensitization is the exchange of signalling molecules and cytokines, between glia and neurons, driving the chronicization process. Herein, using a chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain, we evaluated the efficacy of the mu (M-) and delta (D-) opioid receptor (-OR) targeting agent LP2 in modulating connexin-based heterocellular coupling and cytokine levels. We found that long-term efficacy of LP2 is consequent to MOR-DOR targeting resulting in the reduction of CCI-induced astrocyte-to-microglia heterocellular coupling mediated by connexin 43. We also found that single targeting of DOR reduces TNF and IL-6 levels in the chronic phase of the disease, but the peripheral and central discharge as the primary source of excitotoxic stimulation in the spinal cord requires a simultaneous MOR-DOR targeting to reduce CCI-induced neuropathic pain.
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5
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Hornung RS, Raut NGR, Cantu DJ, Lockhart LM, Averitt DL. Sigma-1 receptors and progesterone metabolizing enzymes in nociceptive sensory neurons of the female rat trigeminal ganglia: A neural substrate for the antinociceptive actions of progesterone. Mol Pain 2022; 18:17448069211069255. [PMID: 35040378 PMCID: PMC8777333 DOI: 10.1177/17448069211069255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Orofacial pain disorders are predominately experienced by women. Progesterone, a major ovarian hormone, is neuroprotective and antinociceptive. We recently reported that progesterone attenuates estrogen-exacerbated orofacial pain behaviors, yet it remains unclear what anatomical substrate underlies progesterone's activity in the trigeminal system. Progesterone has been reported to exert protective effects through actions at intracellular progesterone receptors (iPR), membrane-progesterone receptors (mPR), or sigma 1 receptors (Sig-1R). Of these, the iPR and Sig-1R have been reported to have a role in pain. Progesterone can also have antinociceptive effects through its metabolite, allopregnanolone. Two enzymes, 5α-reductase and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3α-HSD), are required for the metabolism of progesterone to allopregnanolone. Both progesterone and allopregnanolone rapidly attenuate pain sensitivity, implicating action of either progesterone at Sig-1R and/or conversion to allopregnanolone which targets GABAA receptors. In the present study, we investigated whether Sig-1 Rs are expressed in nociceptors within the trigeminal ganglia of cycling female rats and whether the two enzymes required for progesterone metabolism to allopregnanolone, 5α-reductase and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, are also present. Adult female rats from each stage of the estrous cycle were rapidly decapitated and the trigeminal ganglia collected. Trigeminal ganglia were processed by either fluorescent immunochemistry or western blotting to for visualization and quantification of Sig-1R, 5α-reductase, and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Here we report that Sig-1Rs and both enzymes involved in progesterone metabolism are highly expressed in a variety of nociceptive sensory neuron populations in the female rat trigeminal ganglia at similar levels across the four stages of the estrous cycle. These data indicate that trigeminal sensory neurons are an anatomical substrate for the reported antinociceptive activity of progesterone via Sig-1R and/or conversion to allopregnanolone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daisy J Cantu
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman’s
University, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Lauren M Lockhart
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman’s
University, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Dayna L Averitt
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman’s
University, Denton, TX, USA
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6
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López-Estévez S, Gris G, de la Puente B, Carceller A, Martínez V. Intestinal inflammation-associated hypersensitivity is attenuated in a DSS model of colitis in Sigma-1 knockout C57BL/6 mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112126. [PMID: 34474349 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sigma-1 receptors (σ1R) have been implicated in several pain pathways. We assessed the implication of σ1Rs in the development of intestinal inflammation and inflammation-associated referred hypersensitivity in a model of colitis in σ1R knockout (KO) mice. Colitis was induced with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in wild type (WT) and σ1R KO mice. The development of referred mechanical hypersensitivity (von Frey test) was assessed. Colonic and spinal changes in expression of immune- and sensory-related markers were also investigated (RT-qPCR/Western blot). Absence of σ1Rs had little impact in colitis generation and progression, although during the chronic phase a reduction in edema and a down-regulation of iNOS gene expression was observed. In σ1R KO mice, inflammation-associated hypersensitivity was significantly attenuated (paw) or completely prevented (abdomen). During colitis, in WT mice, changes in the colonic expression of nociceptive markers were observed during the acute and chronic phases of inflammation. Although σ1R KO mice showed similar regulation in the acute phase, an attenuated response was observed during the chronic phase of colitis. These differences were especially relevant for CB2 and TRPV1 receptors, which could play an important role in σ1-mediated regulation of sensitivity. No changes were detected on ERK phosphorylation at the level of the lumbosacral spinal cord. In summary, intestinal inflammation-associated referred hyperalgesia was reduced (paw) or absent (abdomen) in σ1R KO mice, thus confirming an important role for σ1R in the development of colitis-associated hypersensitivity. These results identify σ1Rs as a possible therapeutic target for the treatment of hypersensitivity associated to intestinal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio López-Estévez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Georgia Gris
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug Discovery & Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Beatriz de la Puente
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug Discovery & Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alicia Carceller
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug Discovery & Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Martínez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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Marrazzo A, Torrisi C, Barbaraci C, Amata E, Castelli F, Sarpietro MG. Interaction of new sigma ligands with biomembrane models evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry and Langmuir-Blodgett studies. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2021; 201:111643. [PMID: 33647709 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2021.111643] [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: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The compound (+)-MR200 [(+)-methyl (1R,2S)-2-{[4-(4-chlorophenyl)-4-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl]methyl}-1-phenylcyclopropanecarboxylate] is a selective sigma 1 (σ1) antagonist with antinociceptive effect, able to increase selective opioid receptor agonist-mediated analgesia. The parent compound (-)-MRV3 [(-)-methyl (1S,2R)-2-[(4-hydroxy-4-phenylpiperidin-1-yl)-methyl]-1-phenylcyclopropanecarboxylate], a σ1 antagonist with an improved σ1/σ2 selectivity respect to (+)-MR200, play a role in both central sensitization and pain hypersensitivity, suggesting a potential use of σ1 antagonists for the treatment of persistent pain conditions. With the intention to assessing the membrane absorption of compounds and their ability to cross it, the interaction of (+)-MR200 and (-)-MRV3 with dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine phospholipids (DMPC), used as biomembrane models was studied by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Langmuir-Blodgett (LB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Marrazzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Cristina Torrisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Carla Barbaraci
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuele Amata
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Castelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
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Ruiz-Cantero MC, González-Cano R, Tejada MÁ, Santos-Caballero M, Perazzoli G, Nieto FR, Cobos EJ. Sigma-1 receptor: A drug target for the modulation of neuroimmune and neuroglial interactions during chronic pain. Pharmacol Res 2021; 163:105339. [PMID: 33276102 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immune and glial cells play a pivotal role in chronic pain. Therefore, it is possible that the pharmacological modulation of neurotransmission from an exclusively neuronal perspective may not be enough for adequate pain management, and the modulation of complex interactions between neurons and other cell types might be needed for successful pain relief. In this article, we review the current scientific evidence for the modulatory effects of sigma-1 receptors on communication between the immune and nervous systems during inflammation, as well as the influence of this receptor on peripheral and central neuroinflammation. Several experimental models of pathological pain are considered, including peripheral and central neuropathic pain, osteoarthritic, and cancer pain. Sigma-1 receptor inhibition prevents peripheral (macrophage infiltration into the dorsal root ganglion) and central (activation of microglia and astrocytes) neuroinflammation in several pain models, and enhances immune-driven peripheral opioid analgesia during painful inflammation, maximizing the analgesic potential of peripheral immune cells. Therefore, sigma-1 antagonists may constitute a new class of analgesics with an unprecedented mechanism of action and potential utility in several painful disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Carmen Ruiz-Cantero
- Department of Pharmacology, and Neurosciences Institute (Biomedical Research Center), University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Rafael González-Cano
- Department of Pharmacology, and Neurosciences Institute (Biomedical Research Center), University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel Á Tejada
- Department of Pharmacology, and Neurosciences Institute (Biomedical Research Center), University of Granada, Granada, Spain; INCLIVA Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Miriam Santos-Caballero
- Department of Pharmacology, and Neurosciences Institute (Biomedical Research Center), University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Gloria Perazzoli
- Biosanitary Research Institute ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain; Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Francisco R Nieto
- Department of Pharmacology, and Neurosciences Institute (Biomedical Research Center), University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain.
| | - Enrique J Cobos
- Department of Pharmacology, and Neurosciences Institute (Biomedical Research Center), University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain; Teófilo Hernando Institute for Drug Discovery, Madrid, Spain.
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9
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Hornung RS, Benton WL, Tongkhuya S, Uphouse L, Kramer PR, Averitt DL. Progesterone and Allopregnanolone Rapidly Attenuate Estrogen-Associated Mechanical Allodynia in Rats with Persistent Temporomandibular Joint Inflammation. Front Integr Neurosci 2020; 14:26. [PMID: 32457584 PMCID: PMC7225267 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2020.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is associated with pain in the joint (temporomandibular joint, TMJ) and muscles involved in mastication. TMD pain dissipates following menopause but returns in some women undergoing estrogen replacement therapy. Progesterone has both anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties, while estrogen's effects on nociception are variable and highly dependent on both natural hormone fluctuations and estrogen dosage during pharmacological treatments, with high doses increasing pain. Allopregnanolone, a progesterone metabolite and positive allosteric modulator of the GABAA receptor, also has antinociceptive properties. While progesterone and allopregnanolone are antinociceptive, their effect on estrogen-exacerbated TMD pain has not been determined. We hypothesized that removing the source of endogenous ovarian hormones would reduce inflammatory allodynia in the TMJ of rats and both progesterone and allopregnanolone would attenuate the estrogen-provoked return of allodynia. Baseline mechanical sensitivity was measured in female Sprague-Dawley rats (150-175 g) using the von Frey filament method followed by a unilateral injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the TMJ. Mechanical allodynia was confirmed 24 h later; then rats were ovariectomized or received sham surgery. Two weeks later, allodynia was reassessed and rats received one of the following subcutaneous hormone treatments over 5 days: a daily pharmacological dose of estradiol benzoate (E2; 50 μg/kg), daily E2 and pharmacological to sub-physiological doses of progesterone (P4; 16 mg/kg, 16 μg/kg, or 16 ng/kg), E2 daily and interrupted P4 given every other day, daily P4, or daily vehicle control. A separate group of animals received allopregnanolone (0.16 mg/kg) instead of P4. Allodynia was reassessed 1 h following injections. Here, we report that CFA-evoked mechanical allodynia was attenuated following ovariectomy and daily high E2 treatment triggered the return of allodynia, which was rapidly attenuated when P4 was also administered either daily or every other day. Allopregnanolone treatment, whether daily or every other day, also attenuated estrogen-exacerbated allodynia within 1 h of treatment, but only on the first treatment day. These data indicate that when gonadal hormone levels have diminished, treatment with a lower dose of progesterone may be effective at rapidly reducing the estrogen-evoked recurrence of inflammatory mechanical allodynia in the TMJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S. Hornung
- Department of Biology, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX, United States
| | - William L. Benton
- Department of Biology, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX, United States
| | - Sirima Tongkhuya
- Department of Biology, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX, United States
| | - Lynda Uphouse
- Department of Biology, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX, United States
| | - Phillip R. Kramer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Dayna Loyd Averitt
- Department of Biology, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX, United States
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10
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Turnaturi R, Pasquinucci L, Chiechio S, Grasso M, Marrazzo A, Amata E, Dichiara M, Prezzavento O, Parenti C. Exploiting the Power of Stereochemistry in Drug Action: 3-[(2 S,6 S,11 S)-8-Hydroxy-6,11-dimethyl-1,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2,6-methano-3-benzazocin-3(2 H)-yl]- N-phenylpropanamide as Potent Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonist. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:999-1005. [PMID: 32186844 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
(+)-(2S,6S,11S)- and (-)-(2R,6R,11R)-Benzomorphan derivatives have a different binding affinity for sigma-1 (σ1R) and opioid receptors, respectively. In this study, we describe the synthesis of the (+)-enantiomer [(+)-LP1] of the benzomorphan MOR agonist/DOR antagonist LP1 [(-)-LP1]. The binding affinity of both (+)-LP1 and (-)-LP1 for σ1R and sigma-2 receptor (σ2R) was tested. Moreover, (+)-LP1 opioid receptor binding affinity was also investigated. Finally, (+)-LP1 was tested in a mouse model of inflammatory pain. Our results showed a nanomolar σ1R and binding affinity for (+)-LP1. Both (+)-LP1 and (-)-LP1 elicited a significant analgesic effect in a formalin test. Differently from (-)-LP1, the analgesic effect of (+)-LP1 was not reversed by naloxone, suggesting a σ1R antagonist profile. Furthermore, σ1R agonist PRE-084 was able to unmask the σ1R antagonistic component of the benzomorphan compound. (+)-LP1 could constitute an useful lead compound to develop new analgesics based on mechanisms of action alternative to opioid receptor activation.
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MESH Headings
- Analgesics/chemistry
- Analgesics/pharmacology
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Animals
- Benzomorphans/chemical synthesis
- Benzomorphans/pharmacology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Mice
- Pain/drug therapy
- Receptors, Opioid/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Receptors, sigma/antagonists & inhibitors
- Structure-Activity Relationship
- Sigma-1 Receptor
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Turnaturi
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Lorella Pasquinucci
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Santina Chiechio
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina 94018, Italy
| | - Margherita Grasso
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina 94018, Italy
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuele Amata
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Dichiara
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Orazio Prezzavento
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
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11
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Déciga-Campos M, Melo-Hernández LA, Torres-Gómez H, Wünsch B, Schepmann D, González-Trujano ME, Espinosa-Juárez J, López-Muñoz FJ, Navarrete-Vázquez G. Design and synthesis of N‑(benzylpiperidinyl)‑4‑fluorobenzamide: A haloperidol analog that reduces neuropathic nociception via σ 1 receptor antagonism. Life Sci 2020; 245:117348. [PMID: 31981633 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Haloperidol is a neuroleptic drug with high affinity towards the σ1 receptor (σ1R), acting as antagonist that decreases neuropathic pain, but has CNS side effects. This work describes the design and synthesis of a novel analog N‑(1‑benzylpiperidin‑4-yl)‑4‑fluorobenzamide (LMH-2), which produced antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic effects in rats with neuropathy induced by chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve (CCI), being more active than gabapentin (The most widely used drug for the treatment of neuropathic pain). MAIN METHODS LMH-2 was designed as haloperidol analog. Its structure was characterized by spectroscopic (1H and 13C NMR) and spectrometric mass (electronic impact) techniques. Additionally, in silico predictions of pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicological properties were obtained, with promising results. A competitive binding assay using radioligands was employed to evaluate the in vitro affinity for σ1R, whereas in vivo antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic activities were investigated using Wistar rats with CCI. KEY FINDINGS LMH-2 showed high affinity for σ1R in an in vitro binding assay, with a Ki = 6.0 nM and a high σ1R/σ2R selectivity ratio. Molecular docking studies were carried out to determine the binding energy and to analyze LMH-2-protein interactions. Through an in silico pharmacological consensus analysis, LMH-2 was considered safe for in vivo evaluation. Thus, LMH-2 had dose-dependent antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic activities; its efficacy was comparable to that of gabapentin, but its potency was 2-times higher than this drug. SIGNIFICANCE LMH-2 administration produced antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic effects by the antagonism of σ1R, suggesting its potential use as an analgesic drug for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrna Déciga-Campos
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n Col. Casco de Santo Tomás, 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Luis Alberto Melo-Hernández
- Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av. Universidad 1001, Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62209, Mexico
| | - Héctor Torres-Gómez
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Bernhard Wünsch
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Dirk Schepmann
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - María Eva González-Trujano
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología de Productos Naturales, Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría "Ramón de la Fuente Muñíz", 14370 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Josué Espinosa-Juárez
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Sede Sur, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Francisco Javier López-Muñoz
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Sede Sur, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Navarrete-Vázquez
- Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av. Universidad 1001, Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62209, Mexico.
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12
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Alamri MA, Alamri MA. Pharmacophore and docking-based sequential virtual screening for the identification of novel Sigma 1 receptor ligands. Bioinformation 2019; 15:586-595. [PMID: 31719769 PMCID: PMC6822515 DOI: 10.6026/97320630015586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sigma 1 receptor (σ1), a small transmembrane protein expressed in most human cells participates in modulating the function of other membrane proteins such as G protein coupled receptors and ion channels. Several ligands targeting this receptor are currently in clinical trials for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, ischemic stroke and neuro-pathic pain. Hence, this receptor has emerged as an attractive target for the treatment of neuro-pathological diseases with unmet medical needs. It is of interest to identify and characterise novelσ1 receptor ligands with different chemical scaffolds using computer-aided drug designing approach. In this work, a GPCR-focused chemical library consisting of 8543 compounds was screened by pharmacophore and docking-based virtual screening methods using LigandScout 4.3 and Autodock Vina 1.1.2 in PyRx 0.8, respectively. The pharmacophore model was constructed based on the interactions of a selective agonist and another antagonist ligand with high binding affinity to the human σ1receptors. Candidate compounds were filtered sequentially by pharmacophore-fit scores, docking energy scores, drug-likeness filters and ADMET properties. The binding mode and pharmacophore mapping of candidate compounds were analysed by Autodock Vina 1.1.2 and LigandScout 4.3 programs, respectively. A pharmacophore model composed of three hydrophobic and positive ionizable features with recognized geometry was built and used as a 3D query for screening a GPCR-focused chemical library by LigandScout 4.3 program. Among the screened 8543 compounds, 159 candidate compounds were obtained from pharmacophore-based screening. 45 compounds among them bound to σ 1receptor with high binding-affinity scores in comparison to the co-crystallized ligand. Amongst these, top five candidate compounds with excellent druglikeness and ADMET properties were selected. These five candidate compounds may act as potential σ1 receptor ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubarak A Alamri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed A Alamri
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
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13
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Vicario N, Pasquinucci L, Spitale FM, Chiechio S, Turnaturi R, Caraci F, Tibullo D, Avola R, Gulino R, Parenti R, Parenti C. Simultaneous Activation of Mu and Delta Opioid Receptors Reduces Allodynia and Astrocytic Connexin 43 in an Animal Model of Neuropathic Pain. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 56:7338-7354. [PMID: 31030416 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-1607-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition triggered by lesions to the somatosensory nervous system in which pain stimuli occur spontaneously or as pathologically amplified responses. In this scenario, the exchange of signaling molecules throughout cell-to-cell and cell-to-extracellular environment communications plays a key role in the transition from acute to chronic pain. As such, connexin 43 (Cx43), the core glial gap junction and hemichannel-forming protein, is considered a triggering factor for disease chronicization in the central nervous system (CNS). Drugs targeting μ opioid receptors (MOR) are currently used for moderate to severe pain conditions, but their use in chronic pain is limited by the tolerability profile. δ opioid receptors (DOR) have become attractive targets for the treatment of persistent pain and have been associated with the inhibition of pain-sustaining factors. Moreover, it has been shown that simultaneous targeting of MOR and DOR leads to an improved pharmacological fingerprint. Herein, we aimed to study the effects of the benzomorphan ligand LP2, a multitarget MOR/DOR agonist, in an experimental model of neuropathic pain induced by the unilateral sciatic nerve chronic constriction injury (CCI) on male Sprague-Dawley rats. Results showed that LP2 significantly ameliorated mechanical allodynia from the early phase of treatment up to 21 days post-ligatures. We additionally showed that LP2 prevented CCI-induced Cx43 alterations and pro-apoptotic signaling in the CNS. These findings increase the knowledge of neuropathic pain development and the role of spinal astrocytic Cx43, suggesting new approaches for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Vicario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Lorella Pasquinucci
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica M Spitale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Santina Chiechio
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy.,Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018, Troina, Italy
| | - Rita Turnaturi
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy.,Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018, Troina, Italy
| | - Daniele Tibullo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Avola
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Gulino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Department of Drug Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Catania, 95125, Catania, Italy
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14
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Turnaturi R, Montenegro L, Marrazzo A, Parenti R, Pasquinucci L, Parenti C. Benzomorphan skeleton, a versatile scaffold for different targets: A comprehensive review. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 155:492-502. [PMID: 29908442 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite the fact that the benzomorphan skeleton has mainly been employed in medicinal chemistry for the development of opioid analgesics, it is a versatile structure. Its stereochemistry, as well as opportune modifications at the phenolic hydroxyl group and at the basic nitrogen, play a pivotal role addressing the benzomorphan-based compounds to a specific target. In this review, we describe the structure activity-relationships (SARs) of benzomorphan-based compounds acting at sigma 1 receptor (σ1R), sigma 2 receptor (σ2R), voltage-dependent sodium channel, N-Methyl-d-Aspartate (NMDA) receptor-channel complex and other targets. Collectively, the SARs data have highlighted that the benzomorphan nucleus could be regarded as a useful template for the synthesis of drug candidates for different targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Turnaturi
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6, 95100, Catania, Italy.
| | - Lucia Montenegro
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6, 95100, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Lorella Pasquinucci
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6, 95100, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria, 6, 95100, Catania, Italy
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15
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Tejada MÁ, Montilla-García Á, González-Cano R, Bravo-Caparrós I, Ruiz-Cantero MC, Nieto FR, Cobos EJ. Targeting immune-driven opioid analgesia by sigma-1 receptors: Opening the door to novel perspectives for the analgesic use of sigma-1 antagonists. Pharmacol Res 2018; 131:224-230. [PMID: 29454675 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Immune cells have a known role in pronociception, since they release a myriad of inflammatory algogens which interact with neurons to facilitate pain signaling. However, these cells also produce endogenous opioid peptides with analgesic potential. The sigma-1 receptor is a ligand-operated chaperone that modulates neurotransmission by interacting with multiple protein partners, including the μ-opioid receptor. We recently found that sigma-1 antagonists are able to induce opioid analgesia by enhancing the action of endogenous opioid peptides of immune origin during inflammation. This opioid analgesia is seen only at the inflamed site, where immune cells naturally accumulate. In this article we review the difficulties of targeting the opioid system for selective pain relief, and discuss the dual role of immune cells in pain and analgesia. Our discussion creates perspectives for possible novel therapeutic uses of sigma-1 antagonists as agents able to maximize the analgesic potential of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Á Tejada
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100 Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Ángeles Montilla-García
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100 Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Rafael González-Cano
- Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Inmaculada Bravo-Caparrós
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100 Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - M Carmen Ruiz-Cantero
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100 Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco R Nieto
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100 Armilla, Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute, University Hospital Complex of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
| | - Enrique J Cobos
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Institute of Neurosciences, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100 Armilla, Granada, Spain; Biosanitary Research Institute, University Hospital Complex of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; Teófilo Hernando Institute for Drug Discovery, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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16
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Amata E, Rescifina A, Prezzavento O, Arena E, Dichiara M, Pittalà V, Montilla-García Á, Punzo F, Merino P, Cobos EJ, Marrazzo A. (+)-Methyl (1R,2S)-2-{[4-(4-Chlorophenyl)-4-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl]methyl}-1-phenylcyclopropanecarboxylate [(+)-MR200] Derivatives as Potent and Selective Sigma Receptor Ligands: Stereochemistry and Pharmacological Properties. J Med Chem 2017; 61:372-384. [PMID: 29220177 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Methoxycarbonyl-1-phenyl-2-cyclopropylmethyl based derivatives cis-(+)-1a [cis-(+)-MR200], cis-(-)-1a [cis-(-)-MR201], and trans-(±)-1a [trans-(±)-MR204], have been identified as new potent sigma (σ) receptor ligands. In the present paper, novel enantiomerically pure analogues were synthesized and optimized for their σ receptor affinity and selectivity. Docking studies rationalized the results obtained in the radioligand binding assay. Absolute stereochemistry was unequivocally established by X-ray analysis of precursor trans-(+)-5a as camphorsulfonyl derivative 9. The most promising compound, trans-(+)-1d, showed remarkable selectivity over a panel of more than 15 receptors as well as good chemical and enzymatic stability in human plasma. An in vivo evaluation evidenced that trans-(+)-1d, in contrast to trans-(-)-1d, cis-(+)-1d, or cis-(-)-1d, which behave as σ1 antagonists, exhibited a σ1 agonist profile. These data clearly demonstrated that compound trans-(+)-1d, due to its σ1 agonist activity and favorable receptor selectivity and stability, provided an useful tool for the study of σ1 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Amata
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Rescifina
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Orazio Prezzavento
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuela Arena
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Dichiara
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Valeria Pittalà
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Ángeles Montilla-García
- Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada , Avenida de Madrid 11, E-18012 Granada, Spain
| | - Francesco Punzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Pedro Merino
- Laboratorio de Síntesis Asimétrica, Departamento de Síntesis y Estructura de Biomoléculas, Instituto de Síntesis Química y Catálisis Homogénea (ISQCH), Universidad de Zaragoza, CSIC , Campus San Francisco, E-50009 Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain
| | - Enrique J Cobos
- Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada , Avenida de Madrid 11, E-18012 Granada, Spain
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università di Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
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17
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Amata E, Dichiara M, Arena E, Pittalà V, Pistarà V, Cardile V, Graziano ACE, Fraix A, Marrazzo A, Sortino S, Prezzavento O. Novel Sigma Receptor Ligand-Nitric Oxide Photodonors: Molecular Hybrids for Double-Targeted Antiproliferative Effect. J Med Chem 2017; 60:9531-9544. [PMID: 29172528 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b00791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This contribution reports the synthesis and evaluation of novel hybrid compounds that conjugate a sigma (σ) receptor pharmacophore and a nitric oxide (NO) photodonor. All compounds preserve their capability to generate NO under visible light and possess overall σ receptor nanomolar affinity, with one of them (8b) exhibiting remarkable σ2 receptor selectivity. Compounds 8b, 11a, and 11b were tested on tumorigenic MCF-7 and A2058 cells expressing high levels of σ2 and σ1 receptor, respectively. Considerable loss of cell viability was detected under light excitation, while negligible effects in the dark were detected. Moreover, they did not show any significant cytotoxicity in the dark or under irradiation on nontumorigenic NCTC-2544 keratinocytes. NO-induced reduction of cellular viability was demonstrated by in-cell NO detection and total nitrite estimation. For the first time, a combination of σ receptor moieties and a NO photodonor is reported, providing distinctive ligands potentially useful for cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Amata
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Dichiara
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Emanuela Arena
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Valeria Pittalà
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Venerando Pistarà
- Department of Drug Sciences, Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Venera Cardile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania , Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Adriana Carol Eleonora Graziano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania , Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Aurore Fraix
- Department of Drug Sciences, Laboratory of Photochemistry, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Sortino
- Department of Drug Sciences, Laboratory of Photochemistry, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Orazio Prezzavento
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania , Viale A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
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18
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Longhitano L, Castracani CC, Tibullo D, Avola R, Viola M, Russo G, Prezzavento O, Marrazzo A, Amata E, Reibaldi M, Longo A, Russo A, Parrinello NL, Volti GL. Sigma-1 and Sigma-2 receptor ligands induce apoptosis and autophagy but have opposite effect on cell proliferation in uveal melanoma. Oncotarget 2017; 8:91099-91111. [PMID: 29207628 PMCID: PMC5710909 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular tumor in adults, with about 1200-1500 new cases occurring per year in the United States. Metastasis is a frequent occurrence in uveal melanoma, and outcomes are poor once distant spread occurs and no clinically significant chemotherapeutic protocol is so far available. The aim of the present study was to test the effect of various σ1 and σ2 receptor ligands as a possible pharmacological strategy for this rare tumor. Human uveal melanoma cells (92.1) were treated with various concentrations of different σ2 ligands (haloperidol and haloperidol metabolite II) and σ1 ligand ((+)-pentazocine) at various concentrations (1, 10 and 25 μM) and time points (0, 4 h, 8 h, 24 h and 48 h). Cell proliferation and migration were evaluated respectively by continuous cell monitoring by xCELLigence analysis, clonogenic assay and wound healing. Apoptosis and autophagy were also measured by cytofluorimetric and microscopy analysis. Our results showed that σ2 receptor ligands significantly reduced cell proliferation whereas (+)-pentazocine exhibited opposite results. All tested ligands showed significant decrease in cell migration. Interestingly, both σ1 and σ2 receptor ligands showed significant increase of autophagy and apoptosis at all concentrations. Taken all together these results suggest that sigma receptors mediates opposite biological effects but they also share common pharmacological effect on apoptosis and autophagy in uveal melanoma. In conclusion, these data provide the first evidence that sigma receptors may represent a "druggable" target to develop new chemotherapic agent for uveal melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Longhitano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Tibullo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Roberto Avola
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Viola
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuliano Russo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | - Emanuele Amata
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Longo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Russo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Nunziatina Laura Parrinello
- Regional Reference Center for Rare Diseases, Clinical Division of Hematology and Transplantation, PO Ferrarotto Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Via Citelli, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Li Volti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Euromediterranean Institute of Science and Technology, Palermo, Italy
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Development of novel LP1-based analogues with enhanced delta opioid receptor profile. Bioorg Med Chem 2017; 25:4745-4752. [PMID: 28734666 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2017.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Pain relief achieved by co-administration of drugs acting at different targets is more effective than that obtained with conventional MOR selective agonists usually associated to relevant side effects. It has been demonstrated that simultaneously targeting different opioid receptors is a more effective therapeutic strategy. Giving the promising role for DOR in pain management, novel LP1-based analogues with different N-substituents were designed and synthesized with the aim to improve DOR profile. For this purpose, we maintained the phenyl ring in the N-substituent of 6,7-benzomorphan scaffold linked to an ethyl spacer bearing a hydroxyl/methyl or methoxyl group at carbon 2 or including it in a 1,4-benzodioxane ring. LP1 analogues were tested by competition binding assays. Compounds 6 (KiMOR=2.47nM, KiDOR=9.6nM), 7 (KiMOR=0.5nM and KiDOR=0.8nM) and 9 (KiMOR=1.08nM, KiDOR=6.6nM) retained MOR affinity but displayed an improved DOR binding capacity as compared to LP1 (KiMOR=0.83nM, KiDOR=29.1nM). Moreover, GPI and MVD functional assays indicated that compounds 6 (IC50=49.2 and IC50=10.8nM), 7 (IC50=9.9 and IC50=11.8nM) and 9 (IC50=21.5 and IC50=4.4nM) showed a MOR/DOR agonist profile, unlike LP1 that was a MOR agonist/DOR antagonist (IC50=1.9 and IC50=1240nM). Measurements of their antinociceptive effect was evaluated by mice radiant tail flick test displaying for compounds 6, 7 and 9 ED50 values of 1.3, 1.0 and 0.9mg/kg, i.p., respectively. Moreover, the antinociceptive effect of compound 9 was longer lasting with respect to LP1. In conclusion the N-substituent nature of compounds 6, 7 and 9 shifts the DOR profile of LP1 from antagonism to agonism.
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Merlos M, Burgueño J, Portillo-Salido E, Plata-Salamán CR, Vela JM. Pharmacological Modulation of the Sigma 1 Receptor and the Treatment of Pain. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 964:85-107. [PMID: 28315267 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-50174-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
There is a critical need for new analgesics acting through new mechanisms of action, which could increase the efficacy with respect to existing therapies and reduce their unwanted effects. Current preclinical evidence supports the modulatory role of sigma-1 receptors (σ1R) in nociception, mainly based on the pain-attenuated phenotype of σ1R knockout mice and on the antinociceptive effect exerted by σ1R antagonists on pains of different etiologies. σ1R is highly expressed in different pain areas of the CNS and the periphery (particularly dorsal root ganglia), and interacts and modulates the functionality of different receptors and ion channels . The antagonism of σ1R leads to decreased amplification of pain signaling within the spinal cord (central sensitization), but recent data also support a role at the periphery. σ1R antagonists have consistently demonstrated efficacy in neuropathic pain , but also in other types of pain including inflammatory, orofacial, visceral, and post-operative pain. Apart from acting alone, when combined with opioids, σ1R antagonists enhance opioid analgesia but not opioid-induced unwanted effects. Interestingly, unlike opioids, σ1R antagonists do not modify normal sensory mechanical and thermal sensitivity thresholds but they exert antihypersensitive effects in sensitizing conditions, enabling the reversal of nociceptive thresholds back to normal values. Accordingly, σ1R antagonists are not strictly analgesics; they are antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic drugs acting when the system is sensitized following prolonged noxious stimulation or persistent abnormal afferent input (e.g., secondary to nerve injury). These are distinctive features allowing σ1R antagonists to exert a modulatory effect specifically in pathophysiological conditions such as chronic pain .
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Merlos
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Burgueño
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enrique Portillo-Salido
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Ramón Plata-Salamán
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Miguel Vela
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
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Sánchez-Fernández C, Entrena JM, Baeyens JM, Cobos EJ. Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonists: A New Class of Neuromodulatory Analgesics. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 964:109-132. [PMID: 28315268 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-50174-1_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The sigma-1 receptor is a unique ligand-operated chaperone present in key areas for pain control, in both the peripheral and central nervous system. Sigma-1 receptors interact with a variety of protein targets to modify their function. These targets include several G-protein-coupled receptors such as the μ-opioid receptor, and ion channels such as the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR). Sigma-1 antagonists modify the chaperoning activity of sigma-1 receptor by increasing opioid signaling and decreasing NMDAR responses, consequently enhancing opioid antinociception and decreasing the sensory hypersensitivity that characterizes pathological pain conditions. However, the participation in pain relief of other protein partners of sigma-1 receptors in addition to opioid receptors and NMDARs cannot be ruled out. The enhanced opioid antinociception by sigma-1 antagonism is not accompanied by an increase in opioid side effects , including tolerance, dependence or constipation, so the use of sigma-1 antagonists may increase the therapeutic index of opioids. Furthermore, sigma-1 antagonists (in the absence of opioids) have been shown to exert antinociceptive effects in preclinical models of neuropathic pain induced by nerve trauma or chemical injury (the antineoplastic paclitaxel), and more recently in inflammatory and ischemic pain. Although most studies attributed the analgesic properties of sigma-1 antagonists to their central actions, it is now known that peripheral sigma-1 receptors also participate in their effects. Overwhelming preclinical evidence of the role of sigma-1 receptors in pain has led to the development of the first selective sigma-1 antagonist with an intended indication for pain treatment, which is currently in Phase II clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Sánchez-Fernández
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avenida de la Investigación 11, 18016, Granada, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - José Manuel Entrena
- Institute of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100, Armilla, Granada, Spain
- Animal Behavior Research Unit, Scientific Instrumentation Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - José Manuel Baeyens
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avenida de la Investigación 11, 18016, Granada, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100, Armilla, Granada, Spain
| | - Enrique José Cobos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Avenida de la Investigación 11, 18016, Granada, Spain.
- Institute of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Center, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, 18100, Armilla, Granada, Spain.
- Teófilo Hernando Institute for Drug Discovery, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
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22
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Vicario N, Parenti R, Arico' G, Turnaturi R, Scoto GM, Chiechio S, Parenti C. Repeated activation of delta opiod receptors counteracts nerve injury-induced TNF-α up-regulation in the sciatic nerve of rats with neuropathic pain: A possible correlation with delta opiod receptors-mediated antiallodinic effect. Mol Pain 2016; 12:12/0/1744806916667949. [PMID: 27590071 PMCID: PMC5024981 DOI: 10.1177/1744806916667949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite mu opioid receptor agonists are the cornerstones of moderate-to-severe acute pain treatment, their effectiveness in chronic pain conditions is controversial. In contrast to mu opioid receptor agonists, a number of studies have reported the effectiveness of delta opioid receptor agonists on neuropathic pain strengthening the idea that delta opioid receptors gain importance when chronic pain develops. Among other effects, it has been shown that delta opioid receptor activation in optic nerve astrocytes inhibits tumor necrosis factor-α-mediated inflammation in response to severe hypoxia. Considering the involvement of tumor necrosis factor-α in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain, with this study we sought to correlate the effect of delta opioid receptor agonist on the development of mechanical allodynia to tumor necrosis factor-α expression at the site of nerve injury in rats subjected to chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve. To this aim, we measured the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α in the sciatic nerve of rats with neuropathic pain after repeated injections with a delta opioid receptor agonist. Results obtained demonstrated that repeated administrations of the delta opioid receptor agonist SNC80 (10 mg/kg, i.p. for seven consecutive days) significantly inhibited the development of mechanical allodynia in rats with neuropathic pain and that the improvement of neuropathic symptom was timely related to the reduced expression of tumor necrosis factor-α in the rat sciatic nerve. We demonstrated also that when treatment with the delta opioid receptor agonist was suspended both allodynia and tumor necrosis factor-α up-regulation in the sciatic nerve of rats with neuropathic pain were restored. These results show that persistent delta opioid receptor activation significantly attenuates neuropathic pain and negatively regulates sciatic nerve tumor necrosis factor-α expression in chronic constriction injury rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Santina Chiechio
- University of CataniaUniversity of CataniaUniversity of CataniaUniversity of CataniaUniversity of Catania
| | - Carmela Parenti
- University of CataniaUniversity of CataniaUniversity of CataniaUniversity of CataniaUniversity of Catania
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Romero L, Merlos M, Vela JM. Antinociception by Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonists: Central and Peripheral Effects. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2016; 75:179-215. [PMID: 26920013 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is plenty of evidence supporting the modulatory role of sigma-1 receptors (σ1Rs) in nociception, mainly based on the pain-attenuated phenotype of σ1R knockout mice and on the antinociceptive effect exerted by σ1R antagonists, particularly in nonacute sensitizing conditions involving sustained afferent drive, activity-dependent plasticity/sensitization, and ultimately pain hypersensitivity, as it is the case in chronic pains of different etiology. Antinociceptive effects of σ1R antagonists both when acting alone and in combination with opioids (to enhance opioid analgesia) have been reported at both central and peripheral sites. At the central level, findings at the behavioral (animal pain models), electrophysiological (spinal wind-up recordings), neurochemical (spinal release of neurotransmitters) and molecular (NMDAR function) level supports a role for σ1R antagonists in inhibiting augmented excitability secondary to sustained afferent input. Attenuation of activity-induced plastic changes (central sensitization) following tissue injury/inflammation or nerve damage could thus underlie the central inhibitory effect of σ1R antagonists. Moreover, recent pieces of information confirm the involvement of σ1R in mechanisms regulating pain at the periphery, where σ1Rs are highly expressed, particularly in dorsal root ganglia. Indeed, local peripheral administration of σ1R antagonists reduces inflammatory hyperalgesia. Potentiation of opioid analgesia is also supported, particularly at supraspinal sites and at the periphery, where locally administered σ1R antagonists unmask opioid analgesia. Altogether, whereas σ1R activation is coupled to pain facilitation and inhibition of opioid antinociception, σ1R antagonism inhibits pain hypersensitivity and "releases the brake" enabling opioids to exert enhanced antinociceptive effects, both at the central nervous system and at the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz Romero
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Merlos
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Miguel Vela
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, Barcelona, Spain.
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24
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García-Martínez BA, Jaramillo-Morales OA, Espinosa-Juárez JV, Navarrete-Vázquez G, Melo-Hernández LA, Medina-López JR, Domínguez-Ramírez AM, Schepmann D, Wünsch B, López-Muñoz FJ. Antinociceptive effects of a new sigma-1 receptor antagonist (N-(2-morpholin-4-yl-ethyl)-2-(1-naphthyloxy)acetamide) in two types of nociception. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 771:10-7. [PMID: 26683636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pain has become an active clinical challenge due its etiological heterogeneity, symptoms and mechanisms of action. In the search for new pharmacological therapeutic alternatives, sigma receptors have been proposed as drug targets. This family consists of sigma-1 and sigma-2 receptors. The sigma-1 system is involved in nociception through its chaperone activity. Additionally, it has been shown that agonist to these receptors promote related sensitisation and pain hypersensitisation, suggesting the possible use of antagonists for sigma-1 receptors as an alternative therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive effect of a new sigma-1 receptor antagonist N-(2-morpholin-4-yl-ethyl)-2-(1-naphthyloxy)acetamida (NMIN) in two types of pain (arthritic and neuropathic) and to compare its efficacy and potency with reference drugs. The antinociceptive effects of NMIN were quantitatively evaluated using the pain-induced functional impairment model in the rat and the acetone test in a rat model of neuropathic pain. NMIN (sigma-1 receptor affinity of 324nM) did not show any antinociceptive activity in the arthritic pain model but showed a dose-dependent anti-allodynic effect in neuropathic pain. NMIN showed a similar efficacy compared to the effects obtained with morphine and the sigma-1 antagonist BD-1063. However, these reference drugs showed increased potency compared with NMIN. Our results suggest that sigma-1 receptors may play an important direct role in neuropathic pain but not in arthritic pain, supporting the hypothesis that NMIN may be useful for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betzabeth Anali García-Martínez
- Maestría en Cs. Farmacéuticas, Div. de CBS, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Xochimilco, C.P. 04960 Delegación Coyoacán, México D.F., Mexico.
| | | | | | | | | | - José Raúl Medina-López
- Departamento Sistemas Biológicos, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Xochimilco, México, D.F. 04960, Mexico.
| | | | - Dirk Schepmann
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie der Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Wünsch
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie der Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Germany.
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25
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Green Tea Polyphenols Attenuated Glutamate Excitotoxicity via Antioxidative and Antiapoptotic Pathway in the Primary Cultured Cortical Neurons. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2015; 2016:2050435. [PMID: 26788243 PMCID: PMC4692997 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2050435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Green tea polyphenols are a natural product which has antioxidative and antiapoptotic effects. It has been shown that glutamate excitotoxicity induced oxidative stress is linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. In this study we explored the neuroprotective effect of green teen polyphenols against glutamate excitotoxicity in the primary cultured cortical neurons. We found that green tea polyphenols protected against glutamate induced neurotoxicity in the cortical neurons as measured by MTT and TUNEL assays. Green tea polyphenols were then showed to inhibit the glutamate induced ROS release and SOD activity reduction in the neurons. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that green tea polyphenols restored the dysfunction of mitochondrial pro- or antiapoptotic proteins Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 caused by glutamate. Interestingly, the neuroprotective effect of green tea polyphenols was abrogated when the neurons were incubated with siBcl-2. Taken together, these results demonstrated that green tea polyphenols protected against glutamate excitotoxicity through antioxidative and antiapoptotic pathways.
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26
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The spinal antinociceptive mechanism determined by systemic administration of BD1047 in zymosan-induced hyperalgesia in rats. Brain Res Bull 2015; 119:93-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2015.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Involvement of the Heme-Oxygenase Pathway in the Antiallodynic and Antihyperalgesic Activity of Harpagophytum procumbens in Rats. Molecules 2015; 20:16758-69. [PMID: 26389871 PMCID: PMC6331854 DOI: 10.3390/molecules200916758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Harpagophytum procumbens (H. procumbens), also known as Devil’s Claw, has been used to treat a wide range of pathological conditions, including pain, arthritis and inflammation. Inflammatory mediators, released at the site of injury, can sensitize nociceptive terminals and are responsible for allodynia and hyperalgesia. Carbon monoxide (CO), produced in a reaction catalyzed by the enzyme heme oxygenase (HO), may play a role in nociceptive processing and has also been recognized to act as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator in the nervous system. This study was designed to investigate whether the HO/CO pathway is involved in the analgesic response of H. procumbens in carrageenan-induced hyperalgesia in rats. Mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were evaluated by using von Frey filaments and the plantar test, respectively. The results of our experiments showed that pretreatment with the HO inhibitor ZnPP IX significantly decreased the antihyperalgesic effect produced by H. procumbens (800 mg/kg, i.p.) in carrageenan-injected rats. Consistently, the pretreatment with hemin, a HO-1 substrate, or CORM-3, a CO releasing molecule, before a low dose of H. procumbens (300 mg/kg, i.p.) induced a clear antiallodynic response in carrageenan injected rats. These results suggest the involvement of HO-1/CO system in the antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effect of H. procumbens in carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain.
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Vela JM, Merlos M, Almansa C. Investigational sigma-1 receptor antagonists for the treatment of pain. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2015; 24:883-96. [PMID: 26037209 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.1048334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) is a ligand-regulated molecular chaperone that interacts with other proteins, including NMDA and opioid receptors, to modulate their activity. Convergent evidence indicates that σ1R antagonists exert inhibitory effects (and agonists stimulatory effects) on pain by stepping down the intracellular signaling cascades involved in transduction of noxious stimuli and plastic changes (i.e., sensitization phenomena) associated with chronic pain states. AREAS COVERED This review addresses three primary domains. The first focuses on mechanisms underlying the antinociceptive effects of σ1R antagonists. The second addresses evidence gained using pharmacological tools and experimental drugs in the discovery phase and clinical development. Finally, the article outlines the potential benefits of σ1R antagonists, alone or in combination, in the context of available pain therapeutics. EXPERT OPINION There is a critical need for new analgesics based on new mechanisms of action. Target identification requires convincing evidence relating targets to function. In turn, target validation requires confirmation of therapeutic benefits, ideally in humans. Current preclinical evidence provides strong rationale for σ1R antagonists in pain. The outcome of clinical studies with the most advanced investigational σ1R antagonist, S1RA (E-52862), will be of great interest to ascertain the potential of this new therapeutic approach to pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Miguel Vela
- ESTEVE, Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, Carrer Baldiri Reixac , 4-8. Parc Científic de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona , Spain +34 93 4466244 ; +34 93 4466432 ;
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Gris G, Cobos EJ, Zamanillo D, Portillo-Salido E. Sigma-1 receptor and inflammatory pain. Inflamm Res 2015; 64:377-81. [PMID: 25902777 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-015-0819-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) is a unique ligand-regulated molecular chaperone that interacts with several protein targets such as G protein-coupled receptors and ion channels to modulate their activity. Sig-1R is located in areas of the central and peripheral nervous system that are key to pain control. Previous preclinical studies have suggested a potential therapeutic use of Sig-1R antagonists for the management of neuropathic pain. DISCUSSION Recent studies using pharmacological and genetic tools have explored the role of Sig-1R in inflammatory pain conditions. Mice lacking the Sig-1R have shown different patterns of phenotypic responses to inflammatory injury. Systemic or peripheral administration of several Sig-1R antagonists, including the selective Sig-1R antagonist S1RA, inhibited both mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity in several preclinical models of inflammatory pain. These recent studies are summarized in the present commentary. CONCLUSION Central and peripheral pharmacological blockade of Sig-1R could be an effective option to treat inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Gris
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Baldiri Reixach, 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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