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Hu W, Kong X, Cui Y, Wang H, Gao J, Wang X, Chen S, Li X, Li S, Che F, Wan Q. Surfeit Locus Protein 4 as a Novel Target for Therapeutic Intervention in Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:2033-2048. [PMID: 37843800 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03687-z] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Surfeit locus protein 4 (SURF4) functions as a cargo receptor that is capable of transporting newly formed proteins from the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum into vesicles and Golgi bodies. However, the role of SURF4 in the central nervous system remains unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of SURF4 and its underlying mechanisms in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats, and whether it can be used effectively for novel therapeutic intervention. We also examined whether transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) can exert a neuroprotective effect via SURF4-dependent signalling. Following cerebral I/R injury in rats, a significant increase was observed in the expression of SURF4. In both I/R injury and oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) insult, suppressing the expression of SURF4 demonstrated a neuroprotective effect, while overexpression of SURF4 resulted in increased neuronal death. We further showed that the levels of nerve growth factor precursor (proNGF), p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), sortilin, and PTEN were increased following cerebral I/R injury, and that SURF4 acted through the PTEN/proNGF signal pathway to regulate neuronal viability. We demonstrated that tDCS treatment reduced SURF4 expression and decreased the infarct volume after cerebral I/R injury. Together, this study indicates that SURF4 plays a critical role in ischemic neuronal injury and may serve as a molecular target for the development of therapeutic strategies in acute ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Hu
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
- Department of Biological Science, Jining Medical University, Rizhao, China
| | - Xiangyi Kong
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Yu Cui
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Jingchen Gao
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiyuran Wang
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Shujun Chen
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaohua Li
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Shifang Li
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China
| | - Fengyuan Che
- Central Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Linyi People's Hospital, 27 East Jiefang Road, Linyi, China.
| | - Qi Wan
- Institute of Neuroregeneration & Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, 308 Ningxia Street, Qingdao, China.
- Qingdao Gui-Hong Intelligent Medical Technology Co. Ltd, Qingdao High-tech Industrial Development District, 7 Fenglong Road, Qingdao, China.
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Mirzahosseini G, Ismael S, Salman M, Kumar S, Ishrat T. Genetic and Pharmacological Modulation of P75 Neurotrophin Receptor Attenuate Brain Damage After Ischemic Stroke in Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:276-293. [PMID: 37606717 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03550-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
The precursor nerve growth factor (ProNGF) and its receptor p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) are upregulated in several brain diseases, including ischemic stroke. The activation of p75NTR is associated with neuronal apoptosis and inflammation. Thus, we hypothesized that p75NTR modulation attenuates brain damage and improves functional outcomes after ischemic stroke. Two sets of experiments were performed. (1) Adult wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 J mice were subjected to intraluminal suture-middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to induce cerebral ischemia. Pharmacological inhibitor of p75NTR, LM11A-31 (50 mg/kg), or normal saline was administered intraperitoneally (IP) 1 h post-MCAO, and animals survived for 24 h. (2) Adult p75NTR heterozygous knockout (p75NTR+/-) and WT were subjected to photothrombotic (pMCAO) to induce ischemic stroke, and the animals survived for 72 h. The sensory-motor function of animals was measured using Catwalk XT. The brain samples were collected to assess infarction volume, edema, hemorrhagic transformation, neuroinflammation, and signaling pathway at 24 and 72 h after the stroke. The findings described that pharmacological inhibition and genetic knocking down of p75NTR reduce infarction size, edema, and hemorrhagic transformation following ischemic stroke. Additionally, p75NTR modulation significantly decreased several anti-apoptosis markers and improved sensory motor function compared to the WT mice following ischemic stroke. Our observations exhibit that the involvement of p75NTR in ischemic stroke and modulation of p75NTR could improve the outcome of ischemic stroke by increasing cell survival and enhancing motor performance. LM11A-31 has the potential to be a promising therapeutic agent for ischemic stroke. However, more evidence is needed to illuminate the efficacy of LM11A-31 in ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golnoush Mirzahosseini
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 875 Monroe Avenue, Wittenborg Bldg, Room-231, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, TN, 38163, Memphis, USA
| | - Saifudeen Ismael
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neuroscience Research Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, LA, 70112, New Orleans, USA
| | - Mohd Salman
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 875 Monroe Avenue, Wittenborg Bldg, Room-231, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, TN, 38163, Memphis, USA
| | - Tauheed Ishrat
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 875 Monroe Avenue, Wittenborg Bldg, Room-231, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, TN, 38163, Memphis, USA.
- Neuroscience Institute, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
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Mirzahosseini G, Adam JM, Nasoohi S, El-Remessy AB, Ishrat T. Lost in Translation: Neurotrophins Biology and Function in the Neurovascular Unit. Neuroscientist 2023; 29:694-714. [PMID: 35769016 DOI: 10.1177/10738584221104982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The neurovascular unit (NVU) refers to the functional building unit of the brain and the retina, where neurons, glia, and microvasculature orchestrate to meet the demand of the retina's and brain's function. Neurotrophins (NTs) are structural families of secreted proteins and are known for exerting neurotrophic effects on neuronal differentiation, survival, neurite outgrowth, synaptic formation, and plasticity. NTs include several molecules, such as nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, NT-3, NT-4, and their precursors. Furthermore, NTs are involved in signaling pathways such as inflammation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis in a nonneuronal cell type. Interestingly, NTs and the precursors can bind and activate the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) at low and high affinity. Mature NTs bind their cognate tropomyosin/tyrosine-regulated kinase receptors, crucial for maintenance and neuronal development in the brain and retina axis. Activation of p75NTR results in neuronal apoptosis and cell death, while tropomysin receptor kinase upregulation contributes to differentiation and cell growth. Recent findings indicate that modulation of NTs and their receptors contribute to neurovascular dysfunction in the NVU. Several chronic metabolic and acute ischemic diseases affect the NVU, including diabetic and ischemic retinopathy for the retina, as well as stroke, acute encephalitis, and traumatic brain injury for the brain. This work aims to review the current evidence through published literature studying the impact of NTs and their receptors, including the p75NTR receptor, on the injured and healthy brain-retina axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golnoush Mirzahosseini
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Justin Mark Adam
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sanaz Nasoohi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Tauheed Ishrat
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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Zhang S, Wang Q, Qu M, Chen Q, Bai X, Zhang Z, Zhou Q, Xie L. Hyperglycemia Induces Tear Reduction and Dry Eye in Diabetic Mice through the Norepinephrine-α 1 Adrenergic Receptor-Mitochondrial Impairment Axis of Lacrimal Gland. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:913-926. [PMID: 37088455 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Dry eye syndrome is a common complication in diabetic patients with a prevalence of up to 54.3%. However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying hyperglycemia-induced tear reduction and dry eye remain less understood. The present study indicated that both norepinephrine (NE) and tyrosine hydroxylase levels were elevated in the lacrimal gland of diabetic mice, accompanied by increased Fos proto-oncogene (c-FOS)+ cells in the superior cervical ganglion. However, the elimination of NE accumulation by surgical and chemical sympathectomy significantly ameliorated the reduction in tear production, suppressed abnormal inflammation of the lacrimal gland, and improved the severity of dry eye symptoms in diabetic mice. Among various adrenergic receptors (ARs), the α1 subtype played a predominant role in the regulation of tear production, as treatments of α1AR antagonists improved tear secretion in diabetic mice compared with βAR antagonist propranolol. Moreover, the α1AR antagonist alfuzosin treatment also alleviated functional impairments of the meibomian gland and goblet cells in diabetic mice. Mechanically, the α1AR antagonist rescued the mitochondrial bioenergetic deficit, increased the mitochondrial DNA copy numbers, and elevated the glutathione levels of the diabetic lacrimal gland. Overall, these results deciphered a previously unrecognized involvement of the NE-α1AR-mitochondrial bioenergetics axis in the regulation of tear production in the lacrimal gland, which may provide a potential strategy to counteract diabetic dry eye by interfering with the α1AR activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qun Wang
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China; Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Mingli Qu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qing Chen
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Xiaofei Bai
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China; Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Qingjun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China; Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
| | - Lixin Xie
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Shandong Eye Institute of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China; Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.
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Aby K, Antony R, Li Y. ProBDNF Upregulation in Murine Hind Limb Ischemia Reperfusion Injury: A Driver of Inflammation. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:903. [PMID: 37508336 PMCID: PMC10375988 DOI: 10.3390/biology12070903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) has been shown to be expressed in many nonneuronal tissues including skeletal muscle. Skeletal muscle BDNF has been studied regarding its function in metabolism and exercise; however, less is known about its role in skeletal muscle injury. The precursor to BDNF, proBDNF, has an unknown role in skeletal muscle. The levels of proBDNF, mature BDNF, and their receptors were compared in the skeletal muscle and brain tissues of C57BL/6J mice. Tourniquet-induced hind limb ischemia-reperfusion injury was used to assess the function of skeletal muscle-derived proBDNF in skeletal muscle injury. Skeletal muscle-specific knockout of BDNF and pharmacological inhibition of p75NTR, the proBDNF receptor, were used to determine the role of proBDNF-p75NTR signaling. We show for the first time that proBDNF is the predominantly expressed form of BDNF in skeletal muscle and that proBDNF is significantly upregulated in skeletal muscle following hind limb ischemia-reperfusion injury. Skeletal muscle-specific knockout of BDNF blunted the inflammatory response in the injured tissue and appears to be mediated by the proBDNF-p75NTR pathway, as shown by the pharmacological inhibition of p75NTR. These findings suggest that skeletal muscle proBDNF plays a critical role in driving the inflammatory response following skeletal muscle injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yifan Li
- Department of Basic Biomedical Science, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA; (K.A.); (R.A.)
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Transcriptomic analysis of the cerebral hippocampal tissue in spontaneously hypertensive rats exposed to acute hypobaric hypoxia: associations with inflammation and energy metabolism. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3681. [PMID: 36878975 PMCID: PMC9988845 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30682-0] [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: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the effect of acute hypobaric hypoxia (AHH) on the hippocampal region of the brain in early-stage spontaneously hypertensive male rats. The rats were classified into a control (ground level; ~ 400 m altitude) group and an AHH experimental group placed in an animal hypobaric chamber at a simulated altitude of 5500 m for 24 h. RNA-Seq analysis of the brains and hippocampi showed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were primarily associated with ossification, fibrillar collagen trimer, and platelet-derived growth factor binding. The DEGs were classified into functional categories including general function prediction, translation, ribosomal structure and biogenesis, replication, recombination, and repair. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the DEGs were primarily associated with relaxin signaling, PI3K-Akt signaling, and amoebiasis pathways. Protein-protein interaction network analysis indicated that 48 DEGs were involved in both inflammation and energy metabolism. Further, we performed validation experiments to show that nine DEGs were closely associated with inflammation and energy metabolism, of which two (Vegfa and Angpt2) and seven (Acta2, Nfkbia, Col1a1, Edn1, Itga1, Ngfr, and Sgk1) genes showed up and downregulated expression, respectively. Collectively, these results indicated that inflammation and energy metabolism-associated gene expression in the hippocampus was altered in early-stage hypertension upon AHH exposure.
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Fasudil, a ROCK inhibitor, preserves limb integrity in a mouse model of unilateral critical limb ischemia: Possible interplay of inflammatory and angiogenic signaling pathways. Life Sci 2022; 309:121019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Li B, Ning B, Yang F, Guo C. Nerve Growth Factor Promotes Retinal Neurovascular Unit Repair: A Review. Curr Eye Res 2022; 47:1095-1105. [PMID: 35499266 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2022.2055084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate how the imbalance of neurogenic factor (NGF) and its precursor (pro-NGF) mediates structural and functional impairment of retinal neurovascular unit (RNVU) that plays a role in retinal degenerative diseases.Methods: A literature search of electronic databases was performed.Results: The pro-apoptotic effect of pro-NGF and the pro-growth effect of NGF are essential for the pathological and physiological activities of RNVU. Studies show that NGF-based treatment of retinal degenerative diseases, including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy, has achieved remarkable efficacy.Conclusions: RNVU plays a complex and multifaceted role in retinal degenerative diseases. The exploration of the differential signaling expression of proNGF-NGF homeostasis under physiological and pathological conditions, and the corresponding pathological processes induced by its regulation, has prompted us to focus on earlier retinal neuroprotective therapeutic strategies to prevent retinal degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
| | - Bobiao Ning
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
| | - Fan Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
| | - Chengwei Guo
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, PR China
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Qin X, Wang J, Chen S, Liu G, Wu C, Lv Q, He X, Bai X, Huang W, Liao H. Astrocytic p75 NTR expression provoked by ischemic stroke exacerbates the blood-brain barrier disruption. Glia 2022; 70:892-912. [PMID: 35064700 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a critical role in the pathology of ischemic stroke. p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR ) contributes to the disruption of the blood-retinal barrier in retinal ischemia. However, whether p75NTR influences the BBB permeability after acute cerebral ischemia remains unknown. The present study investigated the role and underlying mechanism of p75NTR on BBB integrity in an ischemic stroke mouse model, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). After 24 h of MCAO, astrocytes and endothelial cells in the infarct-affected brain area up-regulated p75NTR . Genetic p75NTR knockdown (p75NTR+/- ) or pharmacological inhibition of p75NTR using LM11A-31, a selective inhibitor of p75NTR , both attenuated brain damage and BBB leakage in MCAO mice. Astrocyte-specific conditional knockdown of p75NTR mediated with an adeno-associated virus significantly ameliorated BBB disruption and brain tissue damage, as well as the neurological functions after stroke. Further molecular biological examinations indicated that astrocytic p75NTR activated NF-κB and HIF-1α signals, which upregulated the expression of MMP-9 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), subsequently leading to tight junction degradation after ischemia. As a result, increased leukocyte infiltration and microglia activation exacerbated brain injury after stroke. Overall, our results provide novel insight into the role of astrocytic p75NTR in BBB disruption after acute cerebral ischemia. The p75NTR may therefore be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Qin
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianing Wang
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shujian Chen
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Gang Liu
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chaoran Wu
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qunyu Lv
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinran He
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xianshu Bai
- Molecular Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Wenhui Huang
- Molecular Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hong Liao
- New drug screening center, Jiangsu Center for Pharmacodynamics Research and Evaluation, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Farina L, Minnone G, Alivernini S, Caiello I, MacDonald L, Soligo M, Manni L, Tolusso B, Coppola S, Zara E, Conti LA, Aquilani A, Magni-Manzoni S, Kurowska-Stolarska M, Gremese E, De Benedetti F, Bracci-Laudiero L. Pro Nerve Growth Factor and Its Receptor p75NTR Activate Inflammatory Responses in Synovial Fibroblasts: A Novel Targetable Mechanism in Arthritis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:818630. [PMID: 35309353 PMCID: PMC8931659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.818630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We have recently provided new evidence for a role of p75NTR receptor and its preferential ligand proNGF in amplifying inflammatory responses in synovial mononuclear cells of chronic arthritis patients. In the present study, to better investigate how activation of the p75NTR/proNGF axis impacts synovial inflammation, we have studied the effects of proNGF on fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS), which play a central role in modulating local immune responses and in activating pro-inflammatory pathways. Using single cell RNA sequencing in synovial tissues from active and treatment-naïve rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, we demonstrated that p75NTR and sortilin, which form a high affinity receptor complex for proNGF, are highly expressed in PRG4pos lining and THY1posCOL1A1pos sublining fibroblast clusters in RA synovia but decreased in RA patients in sustained clinical remission. In ex vivo experiments we found that FLS from rheumatoid arthritis patients (RA-FLS) retained in vitro a markedly higher expression of p75NTR and sortilin than FLS from osteoarthritis patients (OA-FLS). Inflammatory stimuli further up-regulated p75NTR expression and induced endogenous production of proNGF in RA-FLS, leading to an autocrine activation of the proNGF/p75NTR pathway that results in an increased release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our data on the inhibition of p75NTR receptor, which reduced the release of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, further confirmed the key role of p75NTR activation in regulating inflammatory cytokine production. In a set of ex vivo experiments, we used RA-FLS and cultured them in the presence of synovial fluids obtained from arthritis patients that, as we demonstrated, are characterized by a high concentration of proNGF. Our data show that the high levels of proNGF present in inflamed synovial fluids induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production by RA-FLS. The blocking of NGF binding to p75NTR using specific inhibitors led instead to the disruption of this pro-inflammatory loop, reducing activation of the p38 and JNK intracellular pathways and decreasing inflammatory cytokine production. Overall, our data demonstrate that an active proNGF/p75NTR axis promotes pro-inflammatory responses in synovial fibroblasts, thereby contributing to chronic synovial inflammation, and point to the possible use of p75NTR inhibitors as a novel therapeutic approach in chronic arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciapia Farina
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of ImmunoRheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Gaetana Minnone
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of ImmunoRheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Alivernini
- Division of Rheumatology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Rome, Italy
| | - Ivan Caiello
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of ImmunoRheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Lucy MacDonald
- Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis (RACE), Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Marzia Soligo
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT-CNR), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Manni
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT-CNR), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Tolusso
- Division of Rheumatology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Coppola
- National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanita’, Rome, Italy
| | - Erika Zara
- National Centre for Rare Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanita’, Rome, Italy
| | - Libenzio Adrian Conti
- Confocal Microscopy Core Facility, Research Center, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Aquilani
- Division of Rheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Magni-Manzoni
- Division of Rheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Mariola Kurowska-Stolarska
- Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis (RACE), Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Elisa Gremese
- Division of Rheumatology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio De Benedetti
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of ImmunoRheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
- Division of Rheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Bracci-Laudiero
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of ImmunoRheumatology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT-CNR), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Rome, Italy
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Chang S, Cao Y. The ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 ameliorates blood-spinal cord barrier disruption by reducing tight junction protein degradation via the MYPT1-MLC2 pathway after spinal cord injury in rats. Brain Res 2021; 1773:147684. [PMID: 34634287 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147684] [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: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) is a physiological barrier between the blood and spinal cord parenchyma. This study aims to determine whether Y-27632, a Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, can protect the BSCB using in vivo models. The Evans blue fluorescence assay was used to detect leakage of the BSCB. Western blotting was used to define alterations in ROCK-related and tight junction (TJ) protein expression. Immunofluorescence triple-staining was used to evaluate histologic alterations in TJs. Locomotor function was evaluated using the open-field test, the Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan score, and footprint analysis. Two peaks of BSCB leakage after spinal cord injury (SCI) occurred at 24 h and 5 days. The ROCK inhibitor reduced the BSCB leakage at the second peak after SCI. Moreover, the ROCK inhibitor ameliorated the integrity of the BSCB and improved motor function recovery after SCI by regulating the phosphorylation of myosin phosphatase subunit-1 (MYPT1) and cofilin. ROCK inhibitors might protect the BSCB, which provides a new strategy for transitioning SCI treatment from the bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Chang
- Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Industrial Park District, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Orthopedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical, China; University, 5-2 Renmin Street, Guta District, Jinzhou 121000, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Yang Cao
- Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Industrial Park District, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu Province, China; Department of Orthopedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical, China; University, 5-2 Renmin Street, Guta District, Jinzhou 121000, Liaoning Province, China.
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12
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Aby K, Antony R, Eichholz M, Srinivasan R, Li Y. Enhanced pro-BDNF-p75NTR pathway activity in denervated skeletal muscle. Life Sci 2021; 286:120067. [PMID: 34678261 PMCID: PMC8595791 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the related receptors TrkB and p75NTR are expressed in skeletal muscle, yet their functions remain to be fully understood. Skeletal muscle denervation, which occurs in spinal injury, peripheral neuropathies, and aging, negatively affects muscle mass and function. In this study, we wanted to understand the role of BDNF, TrkB, and p75NTR in denervation-induced adverse effects on skeletal muscle. MAIN METHODS Mice with unilateral sciatic denervation were used. Protein levels of pro- and mature BDNF, TrkB, p75NTR, activations of their downstream signaling pathways, and inflammation in the control and denervated muscle were measured with Western blot and tissue staining. Treatment with a p75NTR inhibitor and BDNF skeletal muscle specific knockout in mice were used to examine the role of p75NTR and pro-BDNF. KEY FINDINGS In denervated muscle, pro-BDNF and p75NTR were significantly upregulated, and JNK and NF-kB, two major downstream signaling pathways of p75NTR, were activated, along with muscle atrophy and inflammation. Inhibition of p75NTR using LM11A-31 significantly reduced JNK activation and inflammatory cytokines in the denervated muscle. Moreover, skeletal muscle specific knockout of BDNF reduced pro-BDNF level, JNK activation and inflammation in the denervated muscle. SIGNIFICANCE These results reveal for the first time that the upregulation of pro-BDNF and activation of p75NTR pathway are involved in denervation-induced inflammation in skeletal muscle. The results suggest that inhibition of pro-BDNF-p75NTR pathway can be a new target to treat skeletal muscle inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Aby
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Ryan Antony
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Mary Eichholz
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Rekha Srinivasan
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA
| | - Yifan Li
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA.
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13
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In vivo functions of p75 NTR: challenges and opportunities for an emerging therapeutic target. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:772-788. [PMID: 34334250 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) functions at the molecular nexus of cell death, survival, and differentiation. In addition to its contribution to neurodegenerative diseases and nervous system injuries, recent studies have revealed unanticipated roles of p75NTR in liver repair, fibrinolysis, lung fibrosis, muscle regeneration, and metabolism. Linking these various p75NTR functions more precisely to specific mechanisms marks p75NTR as an emerging candidate for therapeutic intervention in a wide range of disorders. Indeed, small molecule inhibitors of p75NTR binding to neurotrophins have shown efficacy in models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and neurodegeneration. Here, we outline recent advances in understanding p75NTR pleiotropic functions in vivo, and propose an integrated view of p75NTR and its challenges and opportunities as a pharmacological target.
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14
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Guiler W, Koehler A, Boykin C, Lu Q. Pharmacological Modulators of Small GTPases of Rho Family in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:661612. [PMID: 34054432 PMCID: PMC8149604 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.661612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Classical Rho GTPases, including RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42, are members of the Ras small GTPase superfamily and play essential roles in a variety of cellular functions. Rho GTPase signaling can be turned on and off by specific GEFs and GAPs, respectively. These features empower Rho GTPases and their upstream and downstream modulators as targets for scientific research and therapeutic intervention. Specifically, significant therapeutic potential exists for targeting Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases due to their widespread cellular activity and alterations in neural tissues. This study will explore the roles of Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases with focus on the applications of pharmacological modulators in recent discoveries. There have been exciting developments of small molecules, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and natural products and toxins for each classical Rho GTPase category. A brief overview of each category followed by examples in their applications will be provided. The literature on their roles in various diseases [e.g., Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Multiple sclerosis (MS)] highlights the unique and broad implications targeting Rho GTPases for potential therapeutic intervention. Clearly, there is increasing knowledge of therapeutic promise from the discovery of pharmacological modulators of Rho GTPases for managing and treating these conditions. The progress is also accompanied by the recognition of complex Rho GTPase modulation where targeting its signaling can improve some aspects of pathogenesis while exacerbating others in the same disease model. Future directions should emphasize the importance of elucidating how different Rho GTPases work in concert and how they produce such widespread yet different cellular responses during neurodegenerative disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qun Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The Harriet and John Wooten Laboratory for Alzheimer’s and Neurogenerative Diseases Research, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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15
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Elshaer SL, Park HS, Pearson L, Hill WD, Longo FM, El-Remessy AB. Modulation of p75 NTR on Mesenchymal Stem Cells Increases Their Vascular Protection in Retinal Ischemia-Reperfusion Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E829. [PMID: 33467640 PMCID: PMC7830385 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising therapy to improve vascular repair, yet their role in ischemic retinopathy is not fully understood. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of modulating the neurotrophin receptor; p75NTR on the vascular protection of MSCs in an acute model of retinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Wild type (WT) and p75NTR-/- mice were subjected to I/R injury by increasing intra-ocular pressure to 120 mmHg for 45 min, followed by perfusion. Murine GFP-labeled MSCs (100,000 cells/eye) were injected intravitreally 2 days post-I/R and vascular homing was assessed 1 week later. Acellular capillaries were counted using trypsin digest 10-days post-I/R. In vitro, MSC-p75NTR was modulated either genetically using siRNA or pharmacologically using the p75NTR modulator; LM11A-31, and conditioned media were co-cultured with human retinal endothelial cells (HREs) to examine the angiogenic response. Finally, visual function in mice undergoing retinal I/R and receiving LM11A-31 was assessed by visual-clue water-maze test. I/R significantly increased the number of acellular capillaries (3.2-Fold) in WT retinas, which was partially ameliorated in p75NTR-/- retinas. GFP-MSCs were successfully incorporated and engrafted into retinal vasculature 1 week post injection and normalized the number of acellular capillaries in p75NTR-/- retinas, yet ischemic WT retinas maintained a 2-Fold increase. Silencing p75NTR on GFP-MSCs coincided with a higher number of cells homing to the ischemic WT retinal vasculature and normalized the number of acellular capillaries when compared to ischemic WT retinas receiving scrambled-GFP-MSCs. In vitro, silencing p75NTR-MSCs enhanced their secretome, as evidenced by significant increases in SDF-1, VEGF and NGF release in MSCs conditioned medium; improved paracrine angiogenic response in HREs, where HREs showed enhanced migration (1.4-Fold) and tube formation (2-Fold) compared to controls. In parallel, modulating MSCs-p75NTR using LM11A-31 resulted in a similar improvement in MSCs secretome and the enhanced paracrine angiogenic potential of HREs. Further, intervention with LM11A-31 significantly mitigated the decline in visual acuity post retinal I/R injury. In conclusion, p75NTR modulation can potentiate the therapeutic potential of MSCs to harness vascular repair in ischemic retinopathy diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally L. Elshaer
- Augusta Biomedical Research Corporation, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30901, USA; (S.L.E.); (L.P.); (W.D.H.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Hang-soo Park
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Laura Pearson
- Augusta Biomedical Research Corporation, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30901, USA; (S.L.E.); (L.P.); (W.D.H.)
| | - William D. Hill
- Augusta Biomedical Research Corporation, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30901, USA; (S.L.E.); (L.P.); (W.D.H.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC 29403, USA
| | - Frank M. Longo
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA;
| | - Azza B. El-Remessy
- Augusta Biomedical Research Corporation, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30901, USA; (S.L.E.); (L.P.); (W.D.H.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
- Department of the Pharmacy, Doctors Hospital of Augusta, Augusta, GA 30909, USA
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16
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Yin GN, Ock J, Limanjaya A, Minh NN, Hong SS, Yang T, Longo FM, Ryu JK, Suh JK. Oral Administration of the p75 Neurotrophin Receptor Modulator, LM11A-31, Improves Erectile Function in a Mouse Model of Cavernous Nerve Injury. J Sex Med 2020; 18:17-28. [PMID: 33243690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer can not only induce cavernous nerve injury (CNI), but also causes cavernous hypoxia and cavernous structural changes, which lead to a poor response to phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors. AIM To investigate the therapeutic effect of oral administration of LM11A-31, a small molecule p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) ligand and proNGF antagonist, in a mouse model of bilateral CNI, which mimics nerve injury-induced erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy. METHODS 8-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were divided into sham operation and CNI groups. Each group was divided into 2 subgroups: phosphate-buffered saline and LM11A-31 (50 mg/kg/day) being administered once daily starting 3 days before CNI via oral gavage. 2 weeks after CNI, we measured erectile function by electrical stimulation of the bilateral cavernous nerve. The penis was harvested for histologic examination and Western blot analysis. The major pelvic ganglia was harvested and cultured for assays of ex vivo neurite outgrowth. OUTCOMES Intracavernous pressure, neurovascular regeneration in the penis, in vivo or ex vivo functional evaluation, and cell survival signaling were measured. RESULTS Erectile function was decreased in the CNI group (44% of the sham operation group), while administration of LM11A-31 led to a significant improvement of erectile function (70% of the sham operation group) in association with increased neurovascular content, including cavernous endothelial cells, pericytes, and neuronal processes. Immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses showed significantly increased p75NTR expression in the dorsal nerve of CNI mice, which was attenuated by LM11A-31 treatment. Protein expression of active PI3K, AKT, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase was increased, and cell death and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling was significantly attenuated after LM11A-31 treatment. Furthermore, LM11A-31 promoted neurite sprouting in cultured major pelvic ganglia after lipopolysaccharide exposure. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS LM11A-31 may be used as a strategy to treat erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy or in men with neurovascular diseases. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Unlike biological therapeutics, such as proteins, gene therapies, or stem cells, the clinical application of LM11A-31 would likely be relatively less complex and low cost. Our study has some limitations. Future studies will assess the optimal dosing and duration of the compound. Given its plasma half-life of approximately 1 hour, it is possible that dosing more than once per day will provide added efficacy. CONCLUSION Specific inhibition of the proNGF-p75NTR degenerative signaling via oral administration of LM11A-31 represents a novel therapeutic strategy for erectile dysfunction induced by nerve injury. Yin GN, Ock J, Limanjaya A, et al. Oral Administration of the p75 Neurotrophin Receptor Modulator, LM11A-31, Improves Erectile Function in a Mouse Model of Cavernous Nerve Injury. J Sex Med 2021;18:17-28.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Nan Yin
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyeon Ock
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Anita Limanjaya
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Nguyen Naht Minh
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon-Sun Hong
- Department of Drug Development, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Tao Yang
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Frank M Longo
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ji-Kan Ryu
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jun-Kyu Suh
- National Research Center for Sexual Medicine and Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Gudasheva TA, Povarnina PY, Tarasiuk AV, Seredenin SB. Low-molecular mimetics of nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor: Design and pharmacological properties. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:2746-2774. [PMID: 32808322 DOI: 10.1002/med.21721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
To overcome the limitations of the clinical use of neurotrophins nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), scientists have been trying to create their low-molecular-weight mimetics having improved pharmacokinetic properties and lacking side effects of full-sized proteins since the 90s of the last century. The efforts of various research groups have led to the production of peptide and nonpeptide mimetics, being agonists or modulators of the corresponding Trk or p75 receptors that reproduced the therapeutic effects of full-sized proteins. This review discusses different strategies and approaches to the design of such compounds. The relationship between the structure of the mimetics obtained and their action mechanisms and pharmacological properties are analyzed. Special attention is paid to the dipeptide mimetics of individual NGF and BDNF loops having different patterns of activation of Trk receptors signal transduction pathways, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase, which allowed to evaluate the contribution of each pathway to different pharmacological effects. In conclusion, data on therapeutically promising compounds being at different stages of preclinical and clinical studies are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana A Gudasheva
- Medicinal Chemistry Department, V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Polina Y Povarnina
- Medicinal Chemistry Department, V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Aleksey V Tarasiuk
- Medicinal Chemistry Department, V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Sergey B Seredenin
- Department of Pharmacogenetics, V. V. Zakusov Research Institute of Pharmacology, Moscow, Russian Federation
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18
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Wang QC, Sheng W, Yi CJ, Lv H, Cheng B. Retrobulbarly injecting nerve growth factor attenuates visual impairment in streptozotocin-induced diabetes rats. Int Ophthalmol 2020; 40:3501-3511. [PMID: 32776300 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-020-01537-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore whether retrobulbar administration of nerve growth factor (NGF) can restore visual function of streptozotocin-induced diabetes rats. METHODS A high-sucrose/high-fat diet and single injection of streptozotocin (STZ) were used in modeling diabetes. During week 13-15 after STZ injection, diabetic rats were received retrobulbar βNGF injection. On week 17 after STZ injection, the rats were tested with flash visual evoked potential (FVEP) to reflect visual function and with both optical coherence tomography (OCT) and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining to show retinal morphological changes. Furthermore, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining for retinal vascular digest preparations was performed to investigate retinal microvascular alterations, and immunofluorescences for slides of the optic nerve or retina were checked to assess astrocyte activation, autophagy level, and the unfolded protein response (UPR). RESULTS Retrobulbar βNGF injection significantly improved FVEP of diabetic rats. It also significantly alleviated retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and scarcely elicited other retinal/microvascular morphological changes, in OCT, H&E staining, and microvascular preparation. Moreover when diabetes rats treated with NGF, immunostaining of the optic nerve showed downregulation of complement 3d (C3d) and upregulations of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), S100-A10, microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3b (LC3b), and activating transcription factor 4 (ATF-4), while immunostaining of the retina showed upregulation of LC3b and no expression of ATF-4. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that retrobulbar administration of βNGF reduces visual impairment with RGC-loss attenuation and without retinal-microvascular morphological alteration in diabetic rats. Furthermore, enhancements of A2 astrocyte activation, autophagy-protein expression, and ATF-4-mediated UPR may play crucial roles in the protective mechanism of NGF in diabetic visual-pathway neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Chang Wang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China. .,Changsha Xiangjiang, Aier Eye Hospital, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China.
| | - Wang Sheng
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China.,Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China
| | - Cai-Jiao Yi
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China.,Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China
| | - Han Lv
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China.,Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China
| | - Bei Cheng
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China.,Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410015, China
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19
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Ding XW, Li R, Geetha T, Tao YX, Babu JR. Nerve growth factor in metabolic complications and Alzheimer's disease: Physiology and therapeutic potential. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165858. [PMID: 32531260 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As the population ages, obesity and metabolic complications as well as neurological disorders are becoming more prevalent, with huge economic burdens on both societies and families. New therapeutics are urgently needed. Nerve growth factor (NGF), first discovered in 1950s, is a neurotrophic factor involved in regulating cell proliferation, growth, survival, and apoptosis in both central and peripheral nervous systems. NGF and its precursor, proNGF, bind to TrkA and p75 receptors and initiate protein phosphorylation cascades, resulting in changes of cellular functions, and are associated with obesity, diabetes and its complications, and Alzheimer's disease. In this article, we summarize changes in NGF levels in metabolic and neuronal disorders, the signal transduction initiated by NGF and proNGF, the physiological and pathophysiological relevance, and therapeutic potential in treating chronic metabolic diseases and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen Ding
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Rongzi Li
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Thangiah Geetha
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Jeganathan Ramesh Babu
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
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20
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Gauthier S, Aisen PS, Cummings J, Detke MJ, Longo FM, Raman R, Sabbagh M, Schneider L, Tanzi R, Tariot P, Weiner M, Touchon J, Vellas B. Non-Amyloid Approaches to Disease Modification for Alzheimer's Disease: An EU/US CTAD Task Force Report. JPAD-JOURNAL OF PREVENTION OF ALZHEIMERS DISEASE 2020; 7:152-157. [PMID: 32420298 PMCID: PMC7223540 DOI: 10.14283/jpad.2020.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
While amyloid-targeting therapies continue to predominate in the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) drug development pipeline, there is increasing recognition that to effectively treat the disease it may be necessary to target other mechanisms and pathways as well. In December 2019, The EU/US CTAD Task Force discussed these alternative approaches to disease modification in AD, focusing on tau-targeting therapies, neurotrophin receptor modulation, anti-microbial strategies, and the innate immune response; as well as vascular approaches, aging, and non-pharmacological approaches such as lifestyle intervention strategies, photobiomodulation and neurostimulation. The Task Force proposed a general strategy to accelerate the development of alternative treatment approaches, which would include increased partnerships and collaborations, improved trial designs, and further exploration of combination therapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - P S Aisen
- 2Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (ATRI), Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, San Diego, CA USA
| | - J Cummings
- 3Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, USA
| | - M J Detke
- Cortexyme, South San Francisco, CA USA
| | - F M Longo
- 6Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA USA
| | - R Raman
- 2Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute (ATRI), Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, San Diego, CA USA
| | - M Sabbagh
- 4Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Las Vegas, NV USA
| | - L Schneider
- 7University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA USA
| | - R Tanzi
- 8Harvard University, Boston, MA USA
| | - P Tariot
- 9Banner Alzheimer's Institute, Phoenix AZ, USA
| | - M Weiner
- 10University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - J Touchon
- 11Montpellier University, INSERM 1061, Montpellier, France
| | - B Vellas
- 12Gerontopole, INSERM U1027, Alzheimer's Disease Research and Clinical Center, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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21
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Gu C, Draga D, Zhou C, Su T, Zou C, Gu Q, Lahm T, Zheng Z, Qiu Q. miR-590-3p Inhibits Pyroptosis in Diabetic Retinopathy by Targeting NLRP1 and Inactivating the NOX4 Signaling Pathway. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 60:4215-4223. [PMID: 31618425 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.19-27825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To elucidate the mechanism whereby miR-590-3p regulates pyroptosis in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods Human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) incubated with high glucose (HG) were used to establish cell models, and the expression levels of miR-590-3p, caspase-1, IL-1β, NLRP1, NOX4, TXNIP, NLRP3, and ROS were determined. Additionally, miR-590-3p was altered using a mimic or an inhibitor, and siRNAs targeting NLRP1 and NOX4 were applied to explore the regulatory mechanism of miR-590-3p in DR. The relationships between miR-590-3p and NLRP1/NOX4 also were investigated using a luciferase reporter assay. Furthermore, vitreous tissue samples were collected to confirm pyroptosis in clinical DR. Results Downregulated miR-590-3p and upregulated NLRP1/NOX4 levels were observed in a cell culture model of DR. Inhibiting miR-590-3p upregulated NLRP1, the NOX4/ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway, and caspase-1. NLRP1 and NOX4 were confirmed as direct target genes of miR-590-3p. The overexpression of miR-590-3p or knockdown of NLRP1 and NOX4 increased cell activity and suppressed pyroptosis. Intriguingly, the upregulation of IL-1β induced the downregulation of miR-590-3p by lowering the DNA promoter activity of pri-miR-590. Conclusions HG induced pyroptosis in a cell culture model of DR, and the downregulation of miR-590-3p promoted pyroptotic death by targeting NLRP1 and activating the NOX4/ROS/TXNIP/NLRP3 pathway via an IL-1β-mediated positive feedback loop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chufeng Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Deji Draga
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shigatse People's Hospital, Shigatse, Xizang, PR China
| | - Chuandi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Tong Su
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Chen Zou
- Eye Institute, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Qing Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Tashi Lahm
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shigatse People's Hospital, Shigatse, Xizang, PR China
| | - Zhi Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Qinghua Qiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Ocular Fundus Diseases, Shanghai Engineering Center for Visual Science and Photomedicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shigatse People's Hospital, Shigatse, Xizang, PR China
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Wu K, Huang D, Zhu C, Kasanga EA, Zhang Y, Yu E, Zhang H, Ni Z, Ye S, Zhang C, Hu J, Zhuge Q, Yang J. NT3 P75-2 gene-modified bone mesenchymal stem cells improve neurological function recovery in mouse TBI model. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:311. [PMID: 31651375 PMCID: PMC6814101 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1428-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The attainment of extensive neurological function recovery remains the key challenge for the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Transplantation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) has been shown to improve neurological function recovery after TBI. However, the survival of BMSCs after transplantation in early-stage TBI is limited, and much is unknown about the mechanisms mediating this neurological function recovery. Secretion of neurotrophic factors, including neurotrophin 3 (NT3), is one of the critical factors mediating BMSC neurological function recovery. Gene mutation of NT3 (NT3P75-2) has been shown to enhance the biological function of NT3 via the reduction of the activation of the P75 signal pathway. Thus, we investigated whether NT3P75-2 gene-modified BMSCs could enhance the survival of BMSCs and further improve neurological function recovery after TBI. METHODS The ability of NT3P75-2 induction to improve cell growth rate of NSC-34 and PC12 cells in vitro was first determined. BMSCs were then infected with three different lentiviruses (green fluorescent protein (GFP), GFP-NT3, or GFP-NT3P75-2), which stably express GFP, GFP-NT3, or GFP-NT3P75-2. At 24 h post-TBI induction in mice, GFP-labeled BMSCs were locally transplanted into the lesion site. Immunofluorescence and histopathology were performed at 1, 3, and/or 7 days after transplantation to evaluate the survival of BMSCs as well as the lesion volume. A modified neurological severity scoring system and the rotarod test were chosen to evaluate the functional recovery of the mice. Cell growth rate, glial activation, and signaling pathway analyses were performed to determine the potential mechanisms of NT3P75-2 in functional recovery after TBI. RESULTS Overall, NT3P75-2 improved cell growth rate of NSC-34 and PC12 cells in vitro. In addition, NT3P75-2 significantly improved the survival of transplanted BMSCs and neurological function recovery after TBI. Overexpression of NT3P75-2 led to a significant reduction in the activation of glial cells, brain water content, and brain lesion volume after TBI. This was associated with a reduced activation of the p75 neurotrophin receptor (P75NTR) and the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signal pathway due to the low affinity of NT3P75-2 for the receptor. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our results demonstrate that administration of NT3P75-2 gene-modified BMSCs dramatically improves neurological function recovery after TBI by increasing the survival of BMSCs and ameliorating the inflammatory environment, providing a new promising treatment strategy for TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Dongdong Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Can Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Ella A Kasanga
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Enxing Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Hengli Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Zhihui Ni
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Sheng Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Chunli Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Jiangnan Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China. .,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA.
| | - Qichuan Zhuge
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
| | - Jianjing Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Aging and Neurological Disorder Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China. .,Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA.
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