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Jibril TI, Alzoubi KH, Mhaidat NM, Khabour OF, Alqudah MA, Rababa’h AM, Alrabadi N, Al-udatt D. Sildenafil prevents chronic psychosocial stress-induced working memory impairment: Role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2024; 6:100182. [PMID: 38706525 PMCID: PMC11067328 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2024.100182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Psychosocial stress, a common feature in modern societies, impairs cognitive functions. It is suggested that stress hormones and elevated excitatory amino acids during stress are responsible for stress-induced cognitive deficits. Reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, increased oxidative stress, and alteration of synaptic plasticity biomarkers are also possible contributors to the negative impact of stress on learning and memory. Sildenafil citrate is a selective phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor and the first oral therapy for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It has been shown that sildenafil improves learning and memory and possesses antioxidant properties. We hypothesized that administering sildenafil to stressed rats prevents the cognitive deficit induced by chronic psychosocial stress. Methods Psychosocial stress was generated using the intruder model. Sildenafil 3 mg/kg/day was administered intraperitoneally to animals. Behavioral studies were conducted to test spatial learning and memory using the radial arm water maze. Then, the hippocampal BDNF level and several antioxidant markers were assessed. Results This study revealed that chronic psychosocial stress impaired short-term but not long-term memory. The administration of sildenafil prevented this short-term memory impairment. Chronic psychosocial stress markedly reduced the level of hippocampal BDNF (P˂0.05), and this reduction in BDNF was normalized by sildenafil treatment. In addition, neither chronic psychosocial stress nor sildenafil significantly altered the activity of measured oxidative parameters (P > 0.05). Conclusion Chronic psychosocial stress induces short-term memory impairment. The administration of sildenafil citrate prevented this impairment, possibly by normalizing the level of BDNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq I. Jibril
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Karem H. Alzoubi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Nizar M. Mhaidat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Omar F. Khabour
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Mohammad A.Y. Alqudah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Abeer M. Rababa’h
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Nasr Alrabadi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Doaa Al-udatt
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
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Possemis N, Verhey F, Prickaerts J, Blokland A, Ramakers I. A proof of concept phase II study with the PDE-4 inhibitor roflumilast in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease dementia (ROMEMA): study protocol of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, between-subjects trial. Trials 2024; 25:162. [PMID: 38438923 PMCID: PMC10910786 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08001-3] [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: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research into the neurobiological underpinnings of learning and memory has demonstrated the cognitive-enhancing effects associated with diverse classes of phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. Specific PDE inhibitors have been identified to improve neuronal communication through selective inhibition of PDE activity. Roflumilast, a PDE4 inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing episodic memory in healthy adults and elderly participants with pronounced memory impairment, indicative of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). In alignment with these findings, the present protocol aims to provide a proof of concept phase II of the potential of roflumilast to aid patients diagnosed with (a)MCI or mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. METHODS The study will be conducted according to a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled, between-subjects design. Participants with (a)MCI and mild AD dementia will be recruited through the Memory Clinic at the Maastricht University Medical Centre + (MUMC +) in Maastricht, the Netherlands, alongside outreach through regional hospitals, and social media. The study will have three arms: placebo, 50 μg roflumilast, and 100 μg roflumilast, with a treatment duration of 24 weeks. The primary outcome measure will focus on the assessment of episodic memory, as evaluated through participants' performance on the 15-word Verbal Learning Task (VLT). Our secondary objectives are multifaceted, including an exploration of various cognitive domains. In addition, insights into the well-being and daily functioning of participants will be investigated through interviews with both the participants and their (informal) caregivers, we are interested in the well-being and daily functioning of the participants. DISCUSSION The outcomes of the present study aim to elucidate the significance of the PDE4 inhibition mechanism as a prospective therapeutic target for enhancing cognitive function in individuals with (a)MCI and mild AD dementia. Identifying positive effects within these patient cohorts could extend the relevance of this treatment to encompass a broader spectrum of neurological disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION The Medical Ethics Committee of MUMC + granted ethics approval for the 4th version of the protocol on September 10th, 2020. The trial was registered at the European Drug Regulatory Affairs Clinical Trials (EudraCT) registered on the 19th of December 2019 ( https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2019-004959-36/NL ) and ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT04658654, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04658654?intr=roflumilast&cond=mci&rank=1 ) on the 8th of December 2020. The Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects (CCMO) granted approval on the 30th of September 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Possemis
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental, Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Frans Verhey
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan Blokland
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Inez Ramakers
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Hainsworth AH, Arancio O, Elahi FM, Isaacs JD, Cheng F. PDE5 inhibitor drugs for use in dementia. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2023; 9:e12412. [PMID: 37766832 PMCID: PMC10520293 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) remain a major health-care challenge with few licensed medications. Repurposing existing drugs may afford prevention and treatment. Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) is widely expressed in vascular myocytes, neurons, and glia. Potent, selective, Food and Drug Administration-approved PDE5 inhibitors are already in clinical use (sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil) as vasodilators in erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Animal data indicate cognitive benefits of PDE5 inhibitors. In humans, real-world patient data suggest that sildenafil and vardenafil are associated with reduced dementia risk. While a recent clinical trial of acute tadalafil on cerebral blood flow was neutral, there may be chronic actions of PDE5 inhibition on cerebrovascular or synaptic function. We provide a perspective on the potential utility of PDE5 inhibitors for ADRD. We conclude that further prospective clinical trials with PDE5 inhibitors are warranted. The choice of drug will depend on brain penetration, tolerability in older people, half-life, and off-target effects. HIGHLIGHTS Potent phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors are in clinical use as vasodilators.In animals PDE5 inhibitors enhance synaptic function and cognitive ability.In humans the PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil is associated with reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease.Licensed PDE5 inhibitors have potential for repurposing in dementia.Prospective clinical trials of PDE5 inhibitors are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atticus H. Hainsworth
- Molecular & Clinical Sciences Research InstituteSt George's University of LondonLondonUK
- Department of NeurologySt George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Department of Pathology and Cell BiologyTaub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging BrainDepartment of MedicineColumbia UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Fanny M. Elahi
- Departments of Neurology and NeuroscienceRonald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's DiseaseFriedman Brain InstituteIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Jeremy D. Isaacs
- Molecular & Clinical Sciences Research InstituteSt George's University of LondonLondonUK
- Department of NeurologySt George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Feixiong Cheng
- Genomic Medicine InstituteLerner Research InstituteCleveland ClinicClevelandOhioUSA
- Department of Molecular MedicineCleveland Clinic Lerner College of MedicineCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOhioUSA
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Tropea MR, Gulisano W, Vacanti V, Arancio O, Puzzo D, Palmeri A. Nitric oxide/cGMP/CREB pathway and amyloid-beta crosstalk: From physiology to Alzheimer's disease. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 193:657-668. [PMID: 36400326 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP pathway has been extensively studied for its pivotal role in synaptic plasticity and memory processes, resulting in an increase of cAMP response element-binding (CREB) phosphorylation, and consequent synthesis of plasticity-related proteins. The NO/cGMP/CREB signaling is downregulated during aging and neurodegenerative disorders and is affected by Amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) and tau protein, whose increase and deposition is considered the key pathogenic event of Alzheimer's disease (AD). On the other hand, in physiological conditions, the crosstalk between the NO/cGMP/PKG/CREB pathway and Aβ ensures long-term potentiation and memory formation. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the interaction between the NO/cGMP/PKG/CREB pathway and Aβ in the healthy and diseased brain, offering a new perspective to shed light on AD pathophysiology. We will focus on the synaptic mechanisms underlying Aβ physiological interplay with cGMP pathway and how this balance is corrupted in AD, as high levels of Aβ interfere with NO production and cGMP molecular signaling leading to cognitive impairment. Finally, we will discuss results from preclinical and clinical studies proposing the increase of cGMP signaling as a therapeutic strategy in the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Tropea
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - Walter Gulisano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - Valeria Vacanti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, USA; Department of Pathology & Cell Biology and Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Daniela Puzzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 95123, Italy; Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina (EN), 94018, Italy.
| | - Agostino Palmeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, 95123, Italy
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Leukes VN, Malherbe ST, Hiemstra A, Kotze LA, Roos K, Keyser A, De Swardt D, Gutschmidt A, Walzl G, du Plessis N. Sildenafil, a Type-5 Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor, Fails to Reverse Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell-Mediated T Cell Suppression in Cells Isolated From Tuberculosis Patients. Front Immunol 2022; 13:883886. [PMID: 35935981 PMCID: PMC9353143 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.883886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful TB treatment is hampered by increasing resistance to the two most effective first-line anti-TB drugs, namely isoniazid and rifampicin, thus innovative therapies focused on host processes, termed host-directed therapies (HDTs), are promising novel approaches for increasing treatment efficacy without inducing drug resistance. We assessed the ability of Sildenafil, a type-5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor, as a repurposed compound, to serve as HDT target, by counteracting the suppressive effects of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) obtained from active TB cases on T-cell responsiveness. We confirm that MDSC suppress non-specific T-cell activation. We also show that Sildenafil treatment fails to reverse the MDSC-mediated suppression of T-cell functions measured here, namely activation and proliferation. The impact of Sildenafil treatment on improved immunity, using the concentration tested here, is likely to be minimal, but further identification and development of MDSC-targeting TB host-directed therapies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinzeigh N. Leukes
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stephanus T. Malherbe
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andriette Hiemstra
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Leigh A. Kotze
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kelly Roos
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alana Keyser
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dalene De Swardt
- Central Analytical Facility, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andrea Gutschmidt
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gerhard Walzl
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nelita du Plessis
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Nelita du Plessis,
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Jehle A, Garaschuk O. The Interplay between cGMP and Calcium Signaling in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:7048. [PMID: 35806059 PMCID: PMC9266933 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) is a ubiquitous second messenger and a key molecule in many important signaling cascades in the body and brain, including phototransduction, olfaction, vasodilation, and functional hyperemia. Additionally, cGMP is involved in long-term potentiation (LTP), a cellular correlate of learning and memory, and recent studies have identified the cGMP-increasing drug Sildenafil as a potential risk modifier in Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD development is accompanied by a net increase in the expression of nitric oxide (NO) synthases but a decreased activity of soluble guanylate cyclases, so the exact sign and extent of AD-mediated imbalance remain unclear. Moreover, human patients and mouse models of the disease present with entangled deregulation of both cGMP and Ca2+ signaling, e.g., causing changes in cGMP-mediated Ca2+ release from the intracellular stores as well as Ca2+-mediated cGMP production. Still, the mechanisms governing such interplay are poorly understood. Here, we review the recent data on mechanisms underlying the brain cGMP signaling and its interconnection with Ca2+ signaling. We also discuss the recent evidence stressing the importance of such interplay for normal brain function as well as in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olga Garaschuk
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute of Physiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72074 Tübingen, Germany;
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Virk D, Kumar A, Jaggi AS, Singh N. Ameliorative role of rolipram, PDE-4 inhibitor, against sodium arsenite-induced vascular dementia in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:63250-63262. [PMID: 34226994 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic exposure to the population leads to serious health problems like neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and cardiovascular abnormality. In the present study, the work has been commenced to discover the prospect of rolipram a phosphodiestrase-4 (PDE-4) inhibitor against sodium arsenite (SA)-induced vascular endothelial dysfunction (EnDF) leading to dementia in rats. Wistar rats were treated with SA (5 mg/kg body weight/day orally) for 44 days for induction of vascular EnDF and dementia. Learning and memory were evaluated using Morris water maze (MWM) test. Vascular EnDF was evaluated using aortic ring preparation. Various biochemical parameters were also evaluated like brain oxidative stress (viz. reduced glutathione and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances level), serum nitrite/nitrate activity, acetylcholinesterase activity, and inflammatory markers (viz. neutrophil infiltration in brain and myeloperoxidase). SA-treated rats showed poor performance in water maze trials indicating attenuated memory and ability to learn with significant rise (p < 0.05) in brain acetylcholinesterase activity, brain oxidative stress, neutrophil count, and significant decrease (p < 0.05) in serum nitrite/nitrate levels and vascular endothelial functions. Rolipram (PDE-4 inhibitor) treatment (0.03 mg/kg and 0.06 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally daily for 14 days) significantly improved memory and learning abilities, and restored various biochemical parameters and EnDF. It is concluded that PDE-4 modulator may be considered the prospective target for the treatment of SA-induced vascular EnDF and related dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divjot Virk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, CNS Research Lab., Pharmacology Division, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, 147002, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India.
| | - Amteshwar Singh Jaggi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, CNS Research Lab., Pharmacology Division, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, 147002, India
| | - Nirmal Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, CNS Research Lab., Pharmacology Division, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, 147002, India.
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Targeting impaired nutrient sensing with repurposed therapeutics to prevent or treat age-related cognitive decline and dementia: A systematic review. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 67:101302. [PMID: 33609776 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia is a debilitating syndrome that significantly impacts individuals over the age of 65 years. There are currently no disease-modifying treatments for dementia. Impairment of nutrient sensing pathways has been implicated in the pathogenesis of dementia, and may offer a novel treatment approach for dementia. AIMS This systematic review collates all available evidence for Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved therapeutics that modify nutrient sensing in the context of preventing cognitive decline or improving cognition in ageing, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia populations. METHODS PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases were searched using key search terms focusing on available therapeutics such as 'metformin', 'GLP1', 'insulin' and the dementias including 'Alzheimer's disease' and 'Parkinson's disease'. Articles were screened using Covidence systematic review software (Veritas Health Innovation, Melbourne, Australia). The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool v 2.0 for human studies and SYRCLE's risk of bias tool for animal studies. RESULTS Out of 2619 articles, 114 were included describing 31 different 'modulation of nutrient sensing pathway' therapeutics, 13 of which specifically were utilized in human interventional trials for normal ageing or dementia. Growth hormone secretagogues improved cognitive outcomes in human mild cognitive impairment, and potentially normal ageing populations. In animals, all investigated therapeutic classes exhibited some cognitive benefits in dementia models. While the risk of bias was relatively low in human studies, this risk in animal studies was largely unclear. CONCLUSIONS Modulation of nutrient sensing pathway therapeutics, particularly growth hormone secretagogues, have the potential to improve cognitive outcomes. Overall, there is a clear lack of translation from animal models to human populations.
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Basmisanil, a highly selective GABA A-α5 negative allosteric modulator: preclinical pharmacology and demonstration of functional target engagement in man. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7700. [PMID: 33833333 PMCID: PMC8032764 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87307-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
GABAA-α5 subunit-containing receptors have been shown to play a key modulatory role in cognition and represent a promising drug target for cognitive dysfunction, as well as other disorders. Here we report on the preclinical and early clinical profile of a novel GABAA-α5 selective negative allosteric modulator (NAM), basmisanil, which progressed into Phase II trials for intellectual disability in Down syndrome and cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia. Preclinical pharmacology studies showed that basmisanil is the most selective GABAA-α5 receptor NAM described so far. Basmisanil bound to recombinant human GABAA-α5 receptors with 5 nM affinity and more than 90-fold selectivity versus α1, α2, and α3 subunit-containing receptors. Moreover, basmisanil inhibited GABA-induced currents at GABAA-α5 yet had little or no effect at the other receptor subtypes. An in vivo occupancy study in rats showed dose-dependent target engagement and was utilized to establish the plasma exposure to receptor occupancy relationship. At estimated receptor occupancies between 30 and 65% basmisanil attenuated diazepam-induced spatial learning impairment in rats (Morris water maze), improved executive function in non-human primates (object retrieval), without showing anxiogenic or proconvulsant effects in rats. During the Phase I open-label studies, basmisanil showed good safety and tolerability in healthy volunteers at maximum GABAA-α5 receptor occupancy as confirmed by PET analysis with the tracer [11C]-Ro 15-4513. An exploratory EEG study provided evidence for functional activity of basmisanil in human brain. Therefore, these preclinical and early clinical studies show that basmisanil has an ideal profile to investigate potential clinical benefits of GABAA-α5 receptor negative modulation.
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10
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Tabrizian K, Amelinia F, Belaran M, Pourheidar S, Mirzaei H, Fanoudi S. Tadalafil Reversed H-89 - and Scopolamine - Induced Spatial Learning Impairments in Male Rats. Drug Res (Stuttg) 2021; 71:275-283. [PMID: 33450772 DOI: 10.1055/a-1345-7832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Accumulated evidence shows that the cAMP and cGMP signaling pathway plays an important role in memory function and neuronal plasticity. Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) is a hopeful therapeutic target in AD (Alzheimer disease), and PDE5 inhibition may be a good therapeutic strategy for the treatment of AD. In the present study, the four-day bilateral intra-hippocampal infusion of H-89 as a protein kinase AII inhibitor (10 µM/side) and intra-peritoneal injections of tadalafil (20 mg/kg) and scopolamine (0.5 mg/kg) alone and also on combination on spatial learning in Morris water maze (MWM) were investigated. DMSO and saline were used as controls for H-89 and other mentioned drugs, respectively. Rats were trained for 4 days; each day included one block of four trials. Post- training probe trial tests were performed on day 5. Administration of H-89 and scopolamine led to a significant impairment in spatial learning compared to their related controls. But, combination of tadalafil/H-89 or tadalafil/scopolamine reversed H-89 or scopolamine- induced spatial learning deficits in MWM. Taken together, these results showed the probable regulatory effects of cGMP on cholinergic and cAMP/PKA signaling pathways in co-administrations of these mentioned drugs on spatial learning in MWM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh Tabrizian
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran.,Toxicology and Addiction Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Amelinia
- Students Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Maryam Belaran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Soheil Pourheidar
- Students Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Hadi Mirzaei
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Sahar Fanoudi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Gilleen J, Nottage J, Yakub F, Kerins S, Valdearenas L, Uz T, Lahu G, Tsai M, Ogrinc F, Williams SC, Ffytche D, Mehta MA, Shergill SS. The effects of roflumilast, a phosphodiesterase type-4 inhibitor, on EEG biomarkers in schizophrenia: A randomised controlled trial. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:15-22. [PMID: 32854568 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120946300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with schizophrenia have significant cognitive deficits, which may profoundly impair quality of life. These deficits are also evident at the neurophysiological level with patients demonstrating altered event-related potential in several stages of cognitive processing compared to healthy controls; within the auditory domain, for example, there are replicated alterations in Mismatch Negativity, P300 and Auditory Steady State Response. However, there are no approved pharmacological treatments for cognitive deficits in schizophrenia. AIMS Here we examine whether the phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, roflumilast, can improve neurophysiological deficits in schizophrenia. METHODS Using a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design study in 18 patients with schizophrenia, the effect of the phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, roflumilast (100 µg and 250 µg) on auditory steady state response (early stage), mismatch negativity and theta (intermediate stage) and P300 (late stage) was examined using electroencephalogram. A total of 18 subjects were randomised and included in the analysis. RESULTS Roflumilast 250 µg significantly enhanced the amplitude of both the mismatch negativity (p=0.04) and working memory-related theta oscillations (p=0.02) compared to placebo but not in the other (early- or late-stage) cognitive markers. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that phosphodiesterase-4 inhibition, with roflumilast, can improve electroencephalogram cognitive markers, which are impaired in schizophrenia, and that phosphodiesterase-4 inhibition acts at an intermediate rather than early or late cognitive processing stage. This study also underlines the use of neurophysiological measures as cognitive biomarkers in experimental medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Gilleen
- Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK.,Department of Psychology, University of Roehampton, London, UK
| | - Judith Nottage
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Farah Yakub
- Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Kerins
- Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Lorena Valdearenas
- Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,North Middlesex University Hospital, Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Tolga Uz
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, USA
| | - Gez Lahu
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, USA
| | - Max Tsai
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, USA
| | - Frank Ogrinc
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, USA
| | - Steve C Williams
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Dominic Ffytche
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Mitul A Mehta
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Sukhi S Shergill
- Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
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12
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An experimental medicine study of the phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, roflumilast, on working memory-related brain activity and episodic memory in schizophrenia patients. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:1279-1289. [PMID: 30536081 PMCID: PMC8062361 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5134-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Schizophrenia is associated with impairments in cognitive functioning yet there are no approved drugs to treat these deficits. OBJECTIVES Based on animal models, we investigated the potential for roflumilast, a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4), to improve cognition, which may act by increasing intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate in brain regions underlying cognitive deficits in schizophrenia. METHODS This study consisted of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design involving 15 schizophrenia patients. In 3 treatment periods, patients were given 8 days of placebo or one of the two doses of roflumilast (100 and 250 μg daily) with 14 days of washout between treatments. The primary endpoints were dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) activation during a visuospatial working memory task measured with fMRI on dosing day 8 and verbal memory and working memory performance change from baseline to day 8. Least square mean change scores were calculated for behavioural outcomes; fMRI data were analysed in SPM12 with bilateral DLPFC as regions of interest. RESULTS Verbal memory was significantly improved under 250 μg roflumilast (effect size (ES) = 0.77) compared to placebo. fMRI analyses revealed that increasing dose of roflumilast was associated with reduction of bilateral DLPFC activation during working memory compared to placebo, although this was not statistically significant (ES = 0.31 for the higher dose). Working memory was not improved (ES = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Results support the mechanistic validation of potential novel strategies for improving cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia and suggest that PDE4 inhibition may be beneficial for cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02079844 .
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13
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Huang Y, Wu XN, Zhou Q, Wu Y, Zheng D, Li Z, Guo L, Luo HB. Rational Design of 2-Chloroadenine Derivatives as Highly Selective Phosphodiesterase 8A Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2020; 63:15852-15863. [PMID: 33291877 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
To validate the hypothesis that Tyr748 is a crucial residue to aid the discovery of highly selective phosphodiesterase 8A (PDE8A) inhibitors, we identified a series of 2-chloroadenine derivatives based on the hit clofarabine. Structure-based design targeting Tyr748 in PDE8 resulted in the lead compound 3a (IC50 = 0.010 μM) with high selectivity with a reasonable druglike profile. In the X-ray crystal structure, 3a bound to PDE8A with a different mode from 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (a pan-PDE inhibitor) and gave a H-bond of 2.7 Å with Tyr748, which possibly interprets the 220-fold selectivity of 3a against PDE2A. Additionally, oral administration of compound 3a achieved remarkable therapeutic effects against vascular dementia (VaD), indicating that PDE8 inhibitors could serve as potential anti-VaD agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadan Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Xu-Nian Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Qian Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Yinuo Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Dongxiao Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Zhe Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Lei Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Hai-Bin Luo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, Hainan, China
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14
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Dominant-Negative Attenuation of cAMP-Selective Phosphodiesterase PDE4D Action Affects Learning and Behavior. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165704. [PMID: 32784895 PMCID: PMC7460819 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PDE4 cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases reduce 3′, 5′ cAMP levels in the CNS and thereby regulate PKA activity and the phosphorylation of CREB, fundamental to depression, cognition, and learning and memory. The PDE4 isoform PDE4D5 interacts with the signaling proteins β-arrestin2 and RACK1, regulators of β2-adrenergic and other signal transduction pathways. Mutations in PDE4D in humans predispose to acrodysostosis, associated with cognitive and behavioral deficits. To target PDE4D5, we developed mice that express a PDE4D5-D556A dominant-negative transgene in the brain. Male transgenic mice demonstrated significant deficits in hippocampus-dependent spatial learning, as assayed in the Morris water maze. In contrast, associative learning, as assayed in a fear conditioning assay, appeared to be unaffected. Male transgenic mice showed augmented activity in prolonged (2 h) open field testing, while female transgenic mice showed reduced activity in the same assay. Transgenic mice showed no demonstrable abnormalities in prepulse inhibition. There was also no detectable difference in anxiety-like behavior, as measured in the elevated plus-maze. These data support the use of a dominant-negative approach to the study of PDE4D5 function in the CNS and specifically in learning and memory.
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15
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Amidfar M, de Oliveira J, Kucharska E, Budni J, Kim YK. The role of CREB and BDNF in neurobiology and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Life Sci 2020; 257:118020. [PMID: 32603820 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia worldwide. β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) is currently assumed to be the main cause of synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairments in AD, but the molecular signaling pathways underlying its neurotoxic consequences have not yet been completely explored. Additional investigations regarding these pathways will contribute to development of new therapeutic targets. In context, developing evidence suggest that Aβ decreases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mostly by lowering phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element binding protein (CREB) protein. In fact, it has been observed that brain or serum levels of BDNF appear to be beneficial markers for cognitive condition. In addition, the participation of transcription mediated by CREB has been widely analyzed in the memory process and AD development. Designing pharmacologic or genetic therapeutic approaches based on the targeting of CREB-BDNF signaling could be a promising treatment potential for AD. In this review, we summarize data demonstrating the role of CREB-BDNF signaling pathway in cognitive status and mediation of Aβ toxicity in AD. Finally, we also focus on the developing intervention methods for improvement of cognitive decline in AD based on targeting of CREB-BDNF pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jade de Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Ewa Kucharska
- Jesuit University Ignatianum in Krakow, Faculty of Education, Institute of Educational Sciences, Poland
| | - Josiane Budni
- Laboratório de Neurologia Experimental, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Yong-Ku Kim
- Departments of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
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16
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Ribaudo G, Ongaro A, Zagotto G, Memo M, Gianoncelli A. Therapeutic Potential of Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors against Neurodegeneration: The Perspective of the Medicinal Chemist. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:1726-1739. [PMID: 32401481 PMCID: PMC8007108 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
![]()
Increasing human
life expectancy prompts the development of novel
remedies for cognitive decline: 44 million people worldwide are affected
by dementia, and this number is predicted to triple by 2050. Acetylcholinesterase
and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors represent
the targets of currently available drugs for Alzheimer’s disease,
which are characterized by limited efficacy. Thus, the search for
therapeutic agents with alternative or combined mechanisms of action
is wide open. Since variations in 3′,5′-cyclic adenosine
monophosphate, 3′,5′-cyclic guanosine monophosphate,
and/or nitric oxide levels interfere with downstream pathways involved
in memory processes, evidence supporting the potential of phosphodiesterase
(PDE) inhibitors in contrasting neurodegeneration should be
critically considered. For the preparation of this Review, more than
140 scientific papers were retrieved by searching PubMed and Scopus
databases. A systematic approach was adopted when overviewing the
different PDE isoforms, taking into account details on brain localization,
downstream molecular mechanisms, and inhibitors currently under study,
according to available in vitro and in vivo data. In the context of drug repurposing, a section focusing on
PDE5 was introduced. Original computational studies were performed
to rationalize the emerging evidence that suggests the role of PDE5
inhibitors as multi-target agents against neurodegeneration.
Moreover, since such compounds must cross the blood–brain barrier
and reach inhibitory concentrations in the central nervous system
to exert their therapeutic activity, physicochemical parameters
were analyzed and discussed. Taken together, literature and computational
data suggest that some PDE5 inhibitors, such as tadalafil, represent
promising candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Ongaro
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Maurizio Memo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gianoncelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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17
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Leukes V, Walzl G, du Plessis N. Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells as Target of Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors in Host-Directed Therapeutics for Tuberculosis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:451. [PMID: 32269568 PMCID: PMC7109258 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance toward current and new classes of anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) antibiotics are rapidly emerging; thus, innovative therapies focused on host processes, termed host-directed therapies (HDTs), are promising novel approaches for shortening therapy regimens without inducing drug resistance. Development of new TB drugs is lengthy and expensive, and success is not guaranteed; thus, alternatives are needed. Repurposed drugs have already passed Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as well as European Medicines Agency (EMA) safety requirements and may only need to prove efficacy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb). Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) hydrolyze the catalytic breakdown of both cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) to their inactive mononucleotides. Advances in molecular pharmacology have identified 11 PDE families; and the success of sildenafil, a PDE-5 selective inhibitor (PDE-5i), in treating pulmonary hypertension and erectile dysfunction has invigorated research into the therapeutic potential of selective PDE inhibitors in other conditions. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) suppress anti-TB T-cell responses, likely contributing to TB disease progression. PDE-5i increases cGMP within MDSC resulting in the downregulation of arginase-1 (ARG1) and nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2), reducing MDSC's suppressive potential. The effect of this reduction decreases MDSC-induced T-cell-suppressive mechanisms. This review highlights the possibility of HDT targeting of MDSC, using a PDE-5i in combination with the current TB regimen, resulting in improved TB treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinzeigh Leukes
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gerhard Walzl
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nelita du Plessis
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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18
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Liang J, Huang YY, Zhou Q, Gao Y, Li Z, Wu D, Yu S, Guo L, Chen Z, Huang L, Liang SH, He X, Wu R, Luo HB. Discovery and Optimization of α-Mangostin Derivatives as Novel PDE4 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Vascular Dementia. J Med Chem 2020; 63:3370-3380. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jinhao Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Yi-You Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Qian Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Yuqi Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Zhe Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Deyan Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Si Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Lei Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Ling Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Steven H. Liang
- Division of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Xixin He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Ruibo Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Hai-Bin Luo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
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19
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Argyrousi EK, Heckman PRA, Prickaerts J. Role of cyclic nucleotides and their downstream signaling cascades in memory function: Being at the right time at the right spot. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 113:12-38. [PMID: 32044374 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
A plethora of studies indicate the important role of cAMP and cGMP cascades in neuronal plasticity and memory function. As a result, altered cyclic nucleotide signaling has been implicated in the pathophysiology of mnemonic dysfunction encountered in several diseases. In the present review we provide a wide overview of studies regarding the involvement of cyclic nucleotides, as well as their upstream and downstream molecules, in physiological and pathological mnemonic processes. Next, we discuss the regulation of the intracellular concentration of cyclic nucleotides via phosphodiesterases, the enzymes that degrade cAMP and/or cGMP, and via A-kinase-anchoring proteins that refine signal compartmentalization of cAMP signaling. We also provide an overview of the available data pointing to the existence of specific time windows in cyclic nucleotide signaling during neuroplasticity and memory formation and the significance to target these specific time phases for improving memory formation. Finally, we highlight the importance of emerging imaging tools like Förster resonance energy transfer imaging and optogenetics in detecting, measuring and manipulating the action of cyclic nucleotide signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elentina K Argyrousi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6200 MD, the Netherlands
| | - Pim R A Heckman
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6200 MD, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6200 MD, the Netherlands.
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20
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Antiamnesic effects of tofisopam against scopolamine-induced cognitive impairments in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2020; 190:172858. [PMID: 31981560 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2020.172858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the potential therapeutic effects of tofisopam, a 2,3-benzodiazepine derivative anxiolytic, on cognitive deficits in rats with scopolamine-induced amnesia. Cognitive performance of the rats was investigated by using the Morris water maze and passive avoidance tests. Changes in motor activity were assessed by using the activity cage and Rota-rod tests and then morphological changes in the hippocampus were assessed via immunohistochemical stainings. The results indicated that scopolamine impaired learning and memory parameters in rats. Worsened cognitive performance, neuronal loss, and decreased hippocampal synaptophysin, Ki-67, and glial fibrillary acidic protein density were observed. Tofisopam administration at a dose of 50 mg/kg for seven days improved the impaired cognitive performance, enhanced the attenuated synaptic transmission in the hippocampus, increased proliferation in subgranular zones, and improved the decrease in astrocytes in amnesic rats. These findings point out the anti-amnesic effects of tofisopam with concomitant improvements in the hippocampal synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, and glial plasticity, for the first time. Presented beneficial effects of tofisopam on cognitive dysfunctions may have a notable clinical value considering the fact that one of the most important side effects of 1,4-benzodiazepines, which are classical anxiolytic drugs, is amnesia. However, these preclinical results need to be confirmed with further clinical studies, first.
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21
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Zuccarello E, Acquarone E, Calcagno E, Argyrousi EK, Deng SX, Landry DW, Arancio O, Fiorito J. Development of novel phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors for the therapy of Alzheimer's disease. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 176:113818. [PMID: 31978378 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.113818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous molecule that plays a multifactorial role in several cellular processes. In the central nervous system, the NO dual nature in neuroprotection and neurotoxicity has been explored to unveil its involvement in Alzheimer's disease (AD). A growing body of research shows that the activation of the NO signaling pathway leading to the phosphorylation of the transcription factor cyclic adenine monophosphate responsive element binding protein (CREB) (so-called NO/cGMP/PKG/CREB signaling pathway) ameliorates altered neuroplasticity and memory deficits in AD animal models. In addition to NO donors, several other pharmacological agents, such as phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors have been used to activate the pathway and rescue memory disorders. PDE5 inhibitors, including sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil, are marketed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and arterial pulmonary hypertension due to their vasodilatory properties. The ability of PDE5 inhibitors to interfere with the NO/cGMP/PKG/CREB signaling pathway by increasing the levels of cGMP has prompted the hypothesis that PDE5 inhibition might be used as an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of AD. To this end, newly designed PDE5 inhibitors belonging to different chemical classes with improved pharmacologic profile (e.g. higher potency, improved selectivity, and blood-brain barrier penetration) have been synthesized and evaluated in several animal models of AD. In addition, recent medicinal chemistry effort has led to the development of agents concurrently acting on the PDE5 enzyme and a second target involved in AD. Both marketed and investigational PDE5 inhibitors have shown to reverse cognitive defects in young and aged wild type mice as well as transgenic mouse models of AD and tauopathy using a variety of behavioral tasks. These studies confirmed the therapeutic potential of PDE5 inhibitors as cognitive enhancers. However, clinical studies assessing cognitive functions using marketed PDE5 inhibitors have not been conclusive. Drug discovery efforts by our group and others are currently directed towards the development of novel PDE5 inhibitors tailored to AD with improved pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties. In summary, the present perspective reports an overview of the correlation between the NO signaling and AD, as well as an outline of the PDE5 inhibitors used as an alternative approach in altering the NO pathway leading to an improvement of learning and memory. The last two sections describe the preclinical and clinical evaluation of PDE5 inhibitors for the treatment of AD, providing a comprehensive analysis of the current status of the AD drug discovery efforts involving PDE5 as a new therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Zuccarello
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Erica Acquarone
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elisa Calcagno
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elentina K Argyrousi
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Shi-Xian Deng
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Donald W Landry
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States; Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States; Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Jole Fiorito
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States; Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, NY, United States.
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22
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Gutiérrez HC, Vacca I, Schoenmacker G, Cleal M, Tochwin A, O'Connor B, Young AMJ, Vasquez AA, Winter MJ, Parker MO, Norton WHJ. Screening for drugs to reduce zebrafish aggression identifies caffeine and sildenafil. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 30:17-29. [PMID: 31679888 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Although aggression is a common symptom of psychiatric disorders the drugs available to treat it are non-specific and can have unwanted side effects. In this study we have used a behavioural platform in a phenotypic screen to identify drugs that can reduce zebrafish aggression without affecting locomotion. In a three tier screen of ninety-four drugs we discovered that caffeine and sildenafil can selectively reduce aggression. Caffeine also decreased attention and increased impulsivity in the 5-choice serial reaction time task whereas sildenafil showed the opposite effect. Imaging studies revealed that both caffeine and sildenafil are active in the zebrafish brain, with prominent activation of the thalamus and cerebellum evident. They also interact with 5-HT neurotransmitter signalling. In summary, we have demonstrated that juvenile zebrafish are a suitable model to screen for novel drugs to reduce aggression, with the potential to uncover the neural circuits and signalling pathways that mediate such behavioural effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héctor Carreño Gutiérrez
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Irene Vacca
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Gido Schoenmacker
- Radboudumc Human Genetics/Radboud University Institute for Computing and Information Sciences (iCIS)/Donders Centre for Neuroscience, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Madeleine Cleal
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2FR, UK
| | - Anna Tochwin
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Bethan O'Connor
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Andrew M J Young
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Alejandro Arias Vasquez
- Radboudumc Human Genetics/Radboud University Institute for Computing and Information Sciences (iCIS)/Donders Centre for Neuroscience, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Matthew J Winter
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Matthew O Parker
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2FR, UK
| | - William H J Norton
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
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Liu L, Xu H, Ding S, Wang D, Song G, Huang X. Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors as novel agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Brain Res Bull 2019; 153:223-231. [PMID: 31493542 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterized by a progressive impairment of memory and cognition, is a major health problem in both developing and developed countries. Currently, no drugs can reverse the progression of AD. Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) is a critical component of the cyclic guanosine monophosphate/protein kinase G (cGMP/PKG) signaling pathway in neurons, the inhibition of which has produced neuroprotective effects, and PDE5 inhibitors have recently been thought to be potential therapeutic agents for AD. In this paper, we summarized the outstanding progress that has been made in PDE5 inhibitors as anti-AD agents with encouraging results in animal studies, clinical trials and the investigations on the underlying mechanisms. The novel PDE5 inhibitors reported recently in the treatment of AD were also reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Life Science, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Huang Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Life Science, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Shumin Ding
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Life Science, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Dongyan Wang
- Department of Medicine, Yangzhou Polytechnic College, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Guoqiang Song
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Life Science, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China.
| | - Xianfeng Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Life Science, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China.
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24
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Yasmeen S, Akram BH, Hainsworth AH, Kruuse C. Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs) and endothelial function in ischaemic stroke. A review. Cell Signal 2019; 61:108-119. [PMID: 31132399 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endothelial dysfunction is a hallmark of cerebrovascular disease, including ischemic stroke. Modulating endothelial signalling by cyclic nucleotides, cAMP and cGMP, is a potential therapeutic target in stroke. Inhibitors of the cyclic nucleotide degrading phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes may restore cerebral endothelial function. Current knowledge on PDE distribution and function in cerebral endothelial cells is sparse. This review explores data on PDE distribution and effects of PDEi in cerebral endothelial cells and identifies which PDEs are potential treatment targets in stroke. METHOD We performed a systematic search of electronic databases (Medline and Embase). Our search terms were cerebral ischaemia, cerebral endothelial cells, cyclic nucleotide, phosphodiesterase and phosphodiesterase inhibitors. RESULTS We found 23 publications which described effects of selective inhibitors of only three PDE families on endothelial function in ischemic stroke. PDE3 inhibitors (PDE3i) (11 publications) and PDE4 inhibitors (PDE4i) (3 publications) showed anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic or pro-angiogenic effects. PDE3i also reduced leucocyte infiltration and MMP-9 expression. Both PDE3i and PDE4i increased expression of tight junction proteins and protected the blood-brain barrier. PDE5 inhibitors (PDE5i) (6 publications) reduced inflammation and apoptosis. In preclinical models, PDE5i enhanced cGMP/NO signalling associated with microvascular angiogenesis, increased cerebral blood flow and improved functional recovery. Non-specific PDEi (3 publications) had mainly anti-inflammatory effects. CONCLUSION This review demonstrates that non-selective and selective PDEi of PDE3, PDE4 and PDE5 modulated endothelial function in cerebral ischemic stroke by regulating processes involved in vascular repair and neuroprotection and thus reduced cell death and inflammation. Of note, they promoted angiogenesis, microcirculation and improved functional recovery; all are important in stroke prevention and recovery, and effects should be further evaluated in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saiqa Yasmeen
- Stroke Unit and Neurovascular Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, Herlev, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bilal Hussain Akram
- Stroke Unit and Neurovascular Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, Herlev, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Atticus H Hainsworth
- Clinical Neuroscience, Molecular & Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Christina Kruuse
- Stroke Unit and Neurovascular Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Herlev Gentofte Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, Herlev, Denmark; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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25
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Schepers M, Tiane A, Paes D, Sanchez S, Rombaut B, Piccart E, Rutten BPF, Brône B, Hellings N, Prickaerts J, Vanmierlo T. Targeting Phosphodiesterases-Towards a Tailor-Made Approach in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1727. [PMID: 31396231 PMCID: PMC6667646 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by heterogeneous clinical symptoms including gradual muscle weakness, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. The disease course of MS can be classified into a relapsing-remitting (RR) phase defined by periods of neurological disabilities, and a progressive phase where neurological decline is persistent. Pathologically, MS is defined by a destructive immunological and neuro-degenerative interplay. Current treatments largely target the inflammatory processes and slow disease progression at best. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop next-generation therapeutic strategies that target both neuroinflammatory and degenerative processes. It has been shown that elevating second messengers (cAMP and cGMP) is important for controlling inflammatory damage and inducing CNS repair. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) have been studied extensively in a wide range of disorders as they breakdown these second messengers, rendering them crucial regulators. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of PDE inhibition in limiting pathological inflammation and stimulating regenerative processes in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Schepers
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Assia Tiane
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Dean Paes
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Selien Sanchez
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth Piccart
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Bart P F Rutten
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Bert Brône
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Niels Hellings
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Trace amine-associated receptor 1 agonism promotes wakefulness without impairment of cognition in Cynomolgus macaques. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:1485-1493. [PMID: 30954024 PMCID: PMC6784974 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0386-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) is a G-protein coupled receptor with affinity for the trace amines. TAAR1 agonists have pro-cognitive, antidepressant-, and antipsychotic-like properties in both rodents and non-human primates (NHPs). TAAR1 agonism also increases wakefulness and suppresses rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep in mice and rats and reduces cataplexy in two mouse models of narcolepsy. We investigated the effects of TAAR1 agonism in Cynomolgus macaques, a diurnal species that exhibits consolidated night-time sleep, and evaluated the effects of TAAR1 agonists on cognition using a working memory (WM) paradigm in this species. Adult male Cynomolgus macaques (n = 6) were surgically implanted to record the electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram, and locomotor activity (LMA) and the efficacy of the TAAR1 partial agonist RO5263397 (0.1,1,10 mg/kg, p.o.) on sleep/wake, EEG spectra, and LMA was determined. In a second experiment, the acute effects of RO5263397 (0.1,1,10 mg/kg, p.o.) were assessed on a delayed-match-to-sample test of WM in adult male macaques (n = 7). RO5263397 (10 mg/kg) administered at lights off, when sleep pressure was high, promoted wakefulness and reduced both REM and non-REM sleep without inducing hyperlocomotion. RO5263397 (10 mg/kg) also increased delta/theta activity during all vigilance states. RO5263397 had no effect on WM at either short (2 sec) or long (10 sec) delay intervals. The wake-enhancing and REM-suppressing effects of R05263397 shown here in a diurnal primate are consistent with previous results in nocturnal rodents. These effects and the associated alterations in EEG spectra occurred without inducing hyperlocomotion or affecting WM, encouraging further study of TAAR1 agonists as potential narcolepsy therapeutics.
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27
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Sandner P. From molecules to patients: exploring the therapeutic role of soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators. Biol Chem 2019; 399:679-690. [PMID: 29604206 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2018-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) signaling represents one of the major regulatory pathways for cardiovascular function. After the discovery of NO, awarded with the Nobel Prize in 1998, this signaling cascade was stepwise clarified. We now have a good understanding of NO production and NO downstream targets such as the soluble guanylyl cyclases (sGCs) which catalyze cGMP production. Based on the important role of NO-signaling in the cardiovascular system, intense research and development efforts are currently ongoing to fully exploit the therapeutic potential of cGMP increase. Recently, NO-independent stimulators of sGC (sGC stimulators) were discovered and characterized. This new compound class has a unique mode of action, directly binding to sGC and triggering cGMP production. The first sGC stimulator made available to patients is riociguat, which was approved in 2013 for the treatment of different forms of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Besides riociguat, other sGC stimulators are in clinical development, with vericiguat in phase 3 clinical development for the treatment of chronic heart failure (HF). Based on the broad impact of NO/cGMP signaling, sGC stimulators could have an even broader therapeutic potential beyond PH and HF. Within this review, the NO/sGC/cGMP/PKG/PDE-signaling cascade and the major pharmacological intervention sites are described. In addition, the discovery and mode of action of sGC stimulators and the clinical development in PH and HF is covered. Finally, the preclinical and clinical evidence and treatment approaches for sGC stimulators beyond these indications and the cardiovascular disease space, like in fibrotic diseases as in systemic sclerosis (SSc), are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sandner
- Bayer AG, Drug-Discovery, Pharma Research Center Wuppertal, Aprather Weg 18a, D-42069 Wuppertal, Germany.,Hannover Medical School, Department of Pharmacology, Hannover, Germany
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28
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Takano A, Uz T, Garcia-Segovia J, Tsai M, Lahu G, Amini N, Nakao R, Jia Z, Halldin C. A Nonhuman Primate PET Study: Measurement of Brain PDE4 Occupancy by Roflumilast Using (R)-[ 11C]Rolipram. Mol Imaging Biol 2019; 20:615-622. [PMID: 29441434 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-018-1168-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibition in the brain has been reported to improve cognitive function in animal models. Therefore, PDE4 inhibitors are one of key targets potential for drug development. Investigation of brain PDE4 occupancy would help to understand the effects of PDE4 inhibition to cognitive functions. Roflumilast is a selective phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) inhibitor used clinically for severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but the effects to the brain have not been well investigated. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether roflumilast entered the brain and occupied PDE4 in nonhuman primates. PROCEDURES Positron emission tomography (PET) measurements with (R)-[11C]rolipram were performed at baseline and after intravenous (i.v.) administration of roflumilast (3.6 to 200 μg/kg) in three female rhesus monkeys. Arterial blood samples were taken to obtain the input function. Protein binding was measured to obtain the free fraction (fp) of the radioligand. Total distribution volume (VT) and VT/fp were calculated as outcome measures from two tissue compartment model. Lassen plot approach was taken to estimate the target occupancy. RESULTS The brain uptake of (R)-[11C]rolipram decreased after roflumilast administration. PDE 4 occupancy by roflumilast showed dose- and plasma concentration-dependent increase, although PDE4 occupancy did not reach 50 % even after the administration of up to 200 μg/kg of roflumilast, regardless of outcome measures, VT or VT/fp. CONCLUSIONS This PET study showed that the brain PDE4 binding was blocked to a certain extent after i.v. administration of clinical relevant doses of roflumilast in nonhuman primates. Further clinical PET evaluation is needed to understand the relationship between PDE4 inhibition and potential improvement of cognitive function in human subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Takano
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Psychiatric Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Tolga Uz
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., Deerfield, IL, 60015, USA
| | - Jesus Garcia-Segovia
- Takeda Development Center, London, UK.,Orchard Therapeuitcs, Birchin Lane, London, UK
| | - Max Tsai
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., Deerfield, IL, 60015, USA.,Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Gezim Lahu
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., Deerfield, IL, 60015, USA
| | - Nahid Amini
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Psychiatric Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ryuji Nakao
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Psychiatric Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zhisheng Jia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Psychiatric Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christer Halldin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Psychiatric Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Blokland A, Van Duinen MA, Sambeth A, Heckman PRA, Tsai M, Lahu G, Uz T, Prickaerts J. Acute treatment with the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast improves verbal word memory in healthy old individuals: a double-blind placebo-controlled study. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 77:37-43. [PMID: 30776650 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There is ample evidence that phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibition can improve memory performance in animal studies. In the present study, we examined the acute effects of the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast on memory performance in healthy individuals (60-80 years of age). We tested the effects of acute roflumilast administration (100, 250, 1000 μg) in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, 4-way crossover design. Participants were first screened for their verbal word memory performance to ensure normal memory performance (within 0.5 standard deviation from norm score; n = 20) Drug effects on memory performance were tested in a verbal memory test and a spatial memory test. Reported side effects of drug treatment were registered. Roflumilast (100 μg) improved the delayed recall performance of the participants (Cohen's d, 0.69). No effects were observed in the spatial memory task. Roflumilast was well tolerated at this low dose. Although no clear adverse side effects were reported at the low dose, mild adverse events (including headache, dizziness, insomnia, and diarrhea) were reported after the 1000 μg dose. The present study provides first evidence that the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast improves verbal memory performance in old participants. The current data encourage further development of PDE4 inhibitors for improving memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjan Blokland
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marlies A Van Duinen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Anke Sambeth
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Pim R A Heckman
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Max Tsai
- Department of Clinical Development, Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Gezim Lahu
- Department of Clinical Development, Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Tolga Uz
- Department of Clinical Development, Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Betulinic acid, a natural PDE inhibitor restores hippocampal cAMP/cGMP and BDNF, improve cerebral blood flow and recover memory deficits in permanent BCCAO induced vascular dementia in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 832:56-66. [PMID: 29778746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second most common form of senile dementia, embraces memory deficits, neuroinflammation, executive function damage, mood and behavioral changes and abnormal cerebral blood flow. The purpose of the study was to explore the therapeutic potential of betulinic acid in bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) induced VaD in experimental rats. VaD was induced by BCCAO in rats and betulinic acid (10 and 15 mg/kg/day po) was administered 1 week after surgery. The cerebral blood pressure of the animal was recorded before and after the treatment using Laser Doppler flow meter. Object recognition task for non-spatial, Morris water maze for spatial and locomotor activity was performed to evaluate behavioral changes in rats. At the end of the study, animals were decapitated and hippocampus was separated to perform biochemical, neuroinflammatory and second messengers cAMP/cGMP analysis. Histology was done to study the brain pathophysiology. BCCAO surgery was able to significantly impaired memory in rats as observed behavioral and biochemical parameters. Moreover, BA demonstrated a neuroprotective effect in a dose-dependent manner. BA was able to re-establish cerebral blood flow, restore behavioral parameters and showed significant improvements in the as cAMP,cGMP and BDNF levels, restrain the oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters. In histopathology, betulinic acid treated groups showed a decrease in microgliosis and less pathological abnormalities comparable to diseased rat's brain. The observed effect might be attributed to the neuroprotective potential of betulinic acid and its ability to restore cognitive impairment and hippocampal neurochemistry in VaD.
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31
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Acute administration of roflumilast enhances immediate recall of verbal word memory in healthy young adults. Neuropharmacology 2018; 131:31-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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32
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Titus DJ, Wilson NM, Alcazar O, Calixte DA, Dietrich WD, Gurney ME, Atkins CM. A negative allosteric modulator of PDE4D enhances learning after traumatic brain injury. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2018; 148:38-49. [PMID: 29294383 PMCID: PMC5844849 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2017.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) significantly decreases cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling which produces long-term synaptic plasticity deficits and chronic learning and memory impairments. Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) is a major family of cAMP hydrolyzing enzymes in the brain and of the four PDE4 subtypes, PDE4D in particular has been found to be involved in memory formation. Although most PDE4 inhibitors target all PDE4 subtypes, PDE4D can be targeted with a selective, negative allosteric modulator, D159687. In this study, we hypothesized that treating animals with D159687 could reverse the cognitive deficits caused by TBI. To test this hypothesis, adult male Sprague Dawley rats received sham surgery or moderate parasagittal fluid-percussion brain injury. After 3 months of recovery, animals were treated with D159687 (0.3 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) at 30 min prior to cue and contextual fear conditioning, acquisition in the water maze or during a spatial working memory task. Treatment with D159687 had no significant effect on these behavioral tasks in non-injured, sham animals, but did reverse the learning and memory deficits in chronic TBI animals. Assessment of hippocampal slices at 3 months post-TBI revealed that D159687 reversed both the depression in basal synaptic transmission in area CA1 as well as the late-phase of long-term potentiation. These results demonstrate that a negative allosteric modulator of PDE4D may be a potential therapeutic to improve chronic cognitive dysfunction following TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Titus
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14 Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Nicole M Wilson
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14 Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Oscar Alcazar
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14 Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Dale A Calixte
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14 Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - W Dalton Dietrich
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14 Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Mark E Gurney
- Tetra Discovery Partners, Inc., 38 Fulton Street West, Suite 303, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Coleen M Atkins
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14 Terrace, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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Abstract
In this paper, we review one of the oldest paradigms used in animal cognition: the detour paradigm. The paradigm presents the subject with a situation where a direct route to the goal is blocked and a detour must be made to reach it. Often being an ecologically valid and a versatile tool, the detour paradigm has been used to study diverse cognitive skills like insight, social learning, inhibitory control and route planning. Due to the relative ease of administrating detour tasks, the paradigm has lately been used in large-scale comparative studies in order to investigate the evolution of inhibitory control. Here we review the detour paradigm and some of its cognitive requirements, we identify various ecological and contextual factors that might affect detour performance, we also discuss developmental and neurological underpinnings of detour behaviors, and we suggest some methodological approaches to make species comparisons more robust.
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Protective effect of betulinic acid against intracerebroventricular streptozotocin induced cognitive impairment and neuronal damage in rats: Possible neurotransmitters and neuroinflammatory mechanism. Pharmacol Rep 2017; 70:540-548. [PMID: 29674241 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2017.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of the study was to explore the therapeutic potential of Betulinic acid (BA) in streptozotocin (STZ) induced memory damage in experimental rats. METHODS STZ (3mg/kg bilaterally) as intracerebroventrical (icv) route was administered on day 1 and 3 in rats. Donepezil (5mg/kg/day po), used as standard, and BA (5, 10 and 15mg/kg/day po) were administered after 1h of 1st STZ infusion up to 21days. Object recognition task (ORT) for non-spatial, Morris water maze (MWM) for spatial and locomotor activity were performed to evaluate behavioral changes in rats. On 22nd day, animals were decapitated and hippocampus was separated to perform biochemical (AChE, LPO, GSH, nitrite), neuroinflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), neurotransmitters (NTs) (dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin) analysis. RESULTS STZ infusion significantly impaired memory as observed in MWM and ORT, increased oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokine's level and altered NTs level. Moreover, BA demonstrated a neuroprotective effect in a dose-dependent manner. BA dose dependently (5, 10 and 15mg/kg) significantly restore STZ induced memory changes and pathological abnormalities in rat brain. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the current study suggests that BA protect rat brain from STZ induced neuronal damage via acting through multiple mechanisms and would be used to curb cognitive decline associated with neurodegenerative disorders especially AD.
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Physiological and pathological processes of synaptic plasticity and memory in drug discovery: Do not forget the dose-response curve. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 817:59-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.05.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Barone I, Giordano C, Bonofiglio D, Andò S, Catalano S. Phosphodiesterase type 5 and cancers: progress and challenges. Oncotarget 2017; 8:99179-99202. [PMID: 29228762 PMCID: PMC5716802 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancers are an extraordinarily heterogeneous collection of diseases with distinct genetic profiles and biological features that directly influence response patterns to various treatment strategies as well as clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, our growing understanding of cancer cell biology and tumor progression is gradually leading towards rational, tailored medical treatments designed to destroy cancer cells by exploiting the unique cellular pathways that distinguish them from normal healthy counterparts. Recently, inhibition of the activity of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) is emerging as a promising approach to restore normal intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signalling, and thereby resulting into the activation of various downstream molecules to inhibit proliferation, motility and invasion of certain cancer cells. In this review, we present an overview of the experimental and clinical evidences highlighting the role of PDE5 in the pathogenesis and prevention of various malignancies. Current data are still not sufficient to draw conclusive statements for cancer patient management, but could provide further rational for testing PDE5-targeting drugs as anticancer agents in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Daniela Bonofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
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Abstract
High levels of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) have been related to Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis. However, in the healthy brain, low physiologically relevant concentrations of Aβ are necessary for long-term potentiation (LTP) and memory. Because cGMP plays a key role in these processes, here we investigated whether the cyclic nucleotide cGMP influences Aβ levels and function during LTP and memory. We demonstrate that the increase of cGMP levels by the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors sildenafil and vardenafil induces a parallel release of Aβ due to a change in the approximation of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and the β-site APP cleaving enzyme 1. Moreover, electrophysiological and behavioral studies performed on animals of both sexes showed that blocking Aβ function, by using anti-murine Aβ antibodies or APP knock-out mice, prevents the cGMP-dependent enhancement of LTP and memory. Our data suggest that cGMP positively regulates Aβ levels in the healthy brain which, in turn, boosts synaptic plasticity and memory.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Amyloid-β (Aβ) is a key pathogenetic factor in Alzheimer's disease. However, low concentrations of endogenous Aβ, mimicking levels of the peptide in the healthy brain, enhance hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and memory. Because the second messenger cGMP exerts a central role in LTP mechanisms, here we studied whether cGMP affects Aβ levels and function during LTP. We show that cGMP enhances Aβ production by increasing the APP/BACE-1 convergence in endolysosomal compartments. Moreover, the cGMP-induced enhancement of LTP and memory was disrupted by blockade of Aβ, suggesting that the physiological effect of the cyclic nucleotide on LTP and memory is dependent upon Aβ.
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Kumar A, Singh N. Inhibitor of Phosphodiestearse-4 improves memory deficits, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and neuropathological alterations in mouse models of dementia of Alzheimer’s Type. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 88:698-707. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.01.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
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Human iPSC-Derived Neural Progenitors Are an Effective Drug Discovery Model for Neurological mtDNA Disorders. Cell Stem Cell 2017; 20:659-674.e9. [PMID: 28132834 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2016.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations frequently cause neurological diseases. Modeling of these defects has been difficult because of the challenges associated with engineering mtDNA. We show here that neural progenitor cells (NPCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) retain the parental mtDNA profile and exhibit a metabolic switch toward oxidative phosphorylation. NPCs derived in this way from patients carrying a deleterious homoplasmic mutation in the mitochondrial gene MT-ATP6 (m.9185T>C) showed defective ATP production and abnormally high mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), plus altered calcium homeostasis, which represents a potential cause of neural impairment. High-content screening of FDA-approved drugs using the MMP phenotype highlighted avanafil, which we found was able to partially rescue the calcium defect in patient NPCs and differentiated neurons. Overall, our results show that iPSC-derived NPCs provide an effective model for drug screening to target mtDNA disorders that affect the nervous system.
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Teich AF, Sakurai M, Patel M, Holman C, Saeed F, Fiorito J, Arancio O. PDE5 Exists in Human Neurons and is a Viable Therapeutic Target for Neurologic Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2017; 52:295-302. [PMID: 26967220 PMCID: PMC4927884 DOI: 10.3233/jad-151104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) is a critical component of the cGMP-PKG axis of cellular signaling in neurons, and inhibition of PDE5 has been shown to be therapeutic in a wide range of neurologic conditions in animal models. However, enthusiasm for PDE5 inhibitors in humans is limited by data suggesting that PDE5 may not exist in human neurons. Here, we first show that past attempts to quantify PDE5 mRNA were flawed due to the use of incorrect primers, and that when correct primers are used, PDE5 mRNA is detectable in human brain tissue. We then show that PDE5 protein exists in human brain by western blot and ELISA. Most importantly, we performed immunohistochemistry and demonstrate that PDE5 is present in human neurons. We hope that this work will trigger a renewed interest in the development of PDE5 inhibitors for neurologic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew F Teich
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mikako Sakurai
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mitesh Patel
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cameron Holman
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Faisal Saeed
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jole Fiorito
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ottavio Arancio
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Phosphodiesterase-4B as a Therapeutic Target for Cognitive Impairment and Obesity-Related Metabolic Diseases. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 17:103-131. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-58811-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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42
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Pharmacological Rescue of Long-Term Potentiation in Alzheimer Diseased Synapses. J Neurosci 2016; 37:1197-1212. [PMID: 27986924 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2774-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term potentiation (LTP) is an activity-dependent and persistent increase in synaptic transmission. Currently available techniques to measure LTP are time-intensive and require highly specialized expertise and equipment, and thus are not well suited for screening of multiple candidate treatments, even in animal models. To expand and facilitate the analysis of LTP, here we use a flow cytometry-based method to track chemically induced LTP by detecting surface AMPA receptors in isolated synaptosomes: fluorescence analysis of single-synapse long-term potentiation (FASS-LTP). First, we demonstrate that FASS-LTP is simple, sensitive, and models electrically induced LTP recorded in intact circuitries. Second, we conducted FASS-LTP analysis in two well-characterized Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse models (3xTg and Tg2576) and, importantly, in cryopreserved human AD brain samples. By profiling hundreds of synaptosomes, our data provide the first direct evidence to support the idea that synapses from AD brain are intrinsically defective in LTP. Third, we used FASS-LTP for drug evaluation in human synaptosomes. Testing a panel of modulators of cAMP and cGMP signaling pathways, FASS-LTP identified vardenafil and Bay-73-6691 (phosphodiesterase-5 and -9 inhibitors, respectively) as potent enhancers of LTP in synaptosomes from AD cases. These results indicate that our approach could provide the basis for protocols to study LTP in both healthy and diseased human brains, a previously unattainable goal. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Learning and memory depend on the ability of synapses to strengthen in response to activity. Long-term potentiation (LTP) is a rapid and persistent increase in synaptic transmission that is thought to be affected in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, direct evidence of LTP deficits in human AD brain has been elusive, primarily due to methodological limitations. Here, we analyze LTP in isolated synapses from AD brain using a novel approach that allows testing LTP in cryopreserved brain. Our analysis of hundreds of synapses supports the idea that AD-diseased synapses are intrinsically defective in LTP. Further, we identified pharmacological agents that rescue LTP in AD, thus opening up a new avenue for drug screening and evaluation of strategies for alleviating memory impairments.
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Hanbury DB, Peiffer AM, Dugan G, Andrews RN, Cline JM. Long-Term Cognitive Functioning in Single-Dose Total-Body Gamma-Irradiated Rhesus Monkeys ( Macaca mulatta ). Radiat Res 2016; 186:447-454. [PMID: 27740889 DOI: 10.1667/rr14430.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effects of a potentially lethal radiation exposure on the brain for long-term cognitive sequelae were investigated using Rhesus macaques ( Macaca mulatta ) adopted from other facilities after analysis of acute radiation response via the Centers for Medical Countermeasures against Radiation (CMCR) network. Fifty-nine animals were given the opportunity to participate in cognitive cage-side testing. The animals that received single-dose gamma irradiation were significantly less likely to engage in cognitive testing than the controls, suggesting that irradiated animals may have differences in cognitive ability. Five irradiated (6.75-8.05 Gy) and three naïve control animals self-selected, were extensively trained and administered a simple visual discrimination with reversal (SVD+R) task 2-3 times per week for 11-18 months. Each session consisted of 30 trials in which the animals were required to choose the correct visual stimulus for a food reward. After the initial presentation, the stimulus that signaled the presence of food was twice reversed once the animal reached criterion (90% accuracy across four consecutive sessions). While the limited sample size precluded definitive statistical analysis, irradiated animals took longer to reach the criterion subsequent to reversal than did control animals, suggesting a relative deficiency in cognitive flexibility. These results provide preliminary data supporting the potential use of a nonhuman primate model to study radiation-induced, late-delayed cognitive deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Hanbury
- Department of a Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.,d Department of Psychology, Averett University, Danville, Virginia 24541
| | - Ann M Peiffer
- b Department ofRadiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.,c Department of Brain Tumor Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157.,e Department of Psychology, Mars Hill University, Mars Hill, North Carolina 28754
| | - Greg Dugan
- Department of a Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Rachel N Andrews
- Department of a Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - J Mark Cline
- Department of a Pathology, Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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Bartolotti N, Bennett DA, Lazarov O. Reduced pCREB in Alzheimer's disease prefrontal cortex is reflected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Mol Psychiatry 2016; 21:1158-66. [PMID: 27480489 PMCID: PMC4995548 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic-AMP response element-binding protein (CREB) signaling has a critical role in the formation of memories. CREB signaling is dysfunctional in the brains of mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and evidence suggests that CREB signaling may be disrupted in human AD brains as well. Here, we show that both CREB and its activated form pCREB-Ser(133) (pCREB) are reduced in the prefrontal cortex of AD patients. Similarly, the transcription cofactors CREB-binding protein (CBP) and p300 are reduced in the prefrontal cortex of AD patients, indicating additional dysfunction of CREB signaling in AD. Importantly, we show that pCREB expression is reduced in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of AD subjects. In addition, pCREB levels in PBMC positively correlated with pCREB expression in the postmortem brain of persons with AD. These results suggest that pCREB expression in PBMC may be indicative of its expression in the brain, and thus offers the intriguing possibility of pCREB as a biomarker of cognitive function and disease progression in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Bartolotti
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - D A Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - O Lazarov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, The University of Illinois at Chicago, 909S. Wolcott Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA. E-mail:
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Vanmierlo T, Creemers P, Akkerman S, van Duinen M, Sambeth A, De Vry J, Uz T, Blokland A, Prickaerts J. The PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast improves memory in rodents at non-emetic doses. Behav Brain Res 2016; 303:26-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 01/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Wilson NM, Titus DJ, Oliva AA, Furones C, Atkins CM. Traumatic Brain Injury Upregulates Phosphodiesterase Expression in the Hippocampus. Front Syst Neurosci 2016; 10:5. [PMID: 26903822 PMCID: PMC4742790 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2016.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) results in significant impairments in hippocampal synaptic plasticity. A molecule critically involved in hippocampal synaptic plasticity, 3′,5′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate, is downregulated in the hippocampus after TBI, but the mechanism that underlies this decrease is unknown. To address this question, we determined whether phosphodiesterase (PDE) expression in the hippocampus is altered by TBI. Young adult male Sprague Dawley rats received sham surgery or moderate parasagittal fluid-percussion brain injury. Animals were analyzed by western blotting for changes in PDE expression levels in the hippocampus. We found that PDE1A levels were significantly increased at 30 min, 1 h and 6 h after TBI. PDE4B2 and 4D2 were also significantly increased at 1, 6, and 24 h after TBI. Additionally, phosphorylation of PDE4A was significantly increased at 6 and 24 h after TBI. No significant changes were observed in levels of PDE1B, 1C, 3A, 8A, or 8B between 30 min to 7 days after TBI. To determine the spatial profile of these increases, we used immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry at 24 h after TBI. PDE1A and phospho-PDE4A localized to neuronal cell bodies. PDE4B2 was expressed in neuronal dendrites, microglia and infiltrating CD11b+ immune cells. PDE4D was predominantly found in microglia and infiltrating CD11b+ immune cells. To determine if inhibition of PDE4 would improve hippocampal synaptic plasticity deficits after TBI, we treated hippocampal slices with rolipram, a pan-PDE4 inhibitor. Rolipram partially rescued the depression in basal synaptic transmission and converted a decaying form of long-term potentiation (LTP) into long-lasting LTP. Overall, these results identify several possible PDE targets for reducing hippocampal synaptic plasticity deficits and improving cognitive function acutely after TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Wilson
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Miami, FL, USA
| | - David J Titus
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Miami, FL, USA
| | - Anthony A Oliva
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Miami, FL, USA
| | - Concepcion Furones
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Miami, FL, USA
| | - Coleen M Atkins
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Miami, FL, USA
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Phosphodiesterase4D (PDE4D)--A risk factor for atrial fibrillation and stroke? J Neurol Sci 2015; 359:266-74. [PMID: 26671126 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the gene encoding phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D) enzyme are associated with ischemic stroke; however the functional implications of such mutations are not well understood. PDE4D is part of a complex protein family modulating intracellular signalling by cyclic nucleotides. The PDE4 family includes subtypes A-D, all of which show unique intracellular, cellular and tissue distribution. PDE4D is the major subtype expressed in human atrial myocytes and involved in the pathophysiology of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation. The PDE4D enzyme hydrolyses cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Though diverging results are reported, several population based studies describe association of various PDE4D single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) with cardio-embolic stroke in particular. Functionally, a down regulation of PDE4D variants has been reported in stroke patients. The anti-inflammatory and vasodilator properties of PDE4 inhibitors make them suitable for treatment of stroke and cardiovascular disease. PDE4D has recently been suggested as factor in atrial fibrillation. This review summarizes the possible function of PDE4D in the brain, heart, and vasculature. Further, association of the described SNPs, in particular, with cardioembolic stroke, is reviewed. Current findings on the PDE4D mutations suggest functionality involves an increased cardiac risk factor as well as augmented risk of atrial fibrillation.
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From bedside to bench--meeting report of the 7th International Conference on cGMP "cGMP: generators, effectors and therapeutic implications" in Trier, Germany, from June 19th to 21st 2015. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2015; 388:1237-46. [PMID: 26486926 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-015-1176-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
During the past decade, our knowledge on the physiology, pathophysiology, basic pharmacology, and clinical pharmacology of the second messenger (cGMP) has increased tremendously. It is now well-established that cGMP, generated by soluble and particulate guanylate cyclases, is highly compartmentalized in cells and regulates numerous body functions. New cGMP-regulated physiological functions include meiosis and temperature perception. cGMP is involved in the genesis of numerous pathologies including cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, metabolic, neuropsychiatric, eye, and tumor diseases. Several new clinical uses of stimulators and activators of soluble guanylate cyclase and of phosphodiesterase inhibitors such as heart failure, kidney failure, cognitive disorders, obesity bronchial asthma, and osteoporosis are emerging. The combination of neprilysin inhibitors-enhancing stimulation of the particulate guanylate cyclase pathway by preventing natriuretic peptide degradation-with angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonists constitutes a novel promising strategy for heart failure treatment. The role of oxidative stress in cGMP signaling, application of cGMP sensors, and gene therapy for degenerative eye diseases are emerging topics. It is anticipated that cGMP research will further prosper over the next years and reach out into more and more basic and clinical disciplines.
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Lundegaard PR, Anastasaki C, Grant NJ, Sillito RR, Zich J, Zeng Z, Paranthaman K, Larsen AP, Armstrong JD, Porteous DJ, Patton EE. MEK Inhibitors Reverse cAMP-Mediated Anxiety in Zebrafish. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 22:1335-46. [PMID: 26388333 PMCID: PMC4623357 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2015.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Altered phosphodiesterase (PDE)-cyclic AMP (cAMP) activity is frequently associated with anxiety disorders, but current therapies act by reducing neuronal excitability rather than targeting PDE-cAMP-mediated signaling pathways. Here, we report the novel repositioning of anti-cancer MEK inhibitors as anxiolytics in a zebrafish model of anxiety-like behaviors. PDE inhibitors or activators of adenylate cyclase cause behaviors consistent with anxiety in larvae and adult zebrafish. Small-molecule screening identifies MEK inhibitors as potent suppressors of cAMP anxiety behaviors in both larvae and adult zebrafish, while causing no anxiolytic behavioral effects on their own. The mechanism underlying cAMP-induced anxiety is via crosstalk to activation of the RAS-MAPK signaling pathway. We propose that targeting crosstalk signaling pathways can be an effective strategy for mental health disorders, and advance the repositioning of MEK inhibitors as behavior stabilizers in the context of increased cAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia R Lundegaard
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Danish National Research Foundation Centre for Cardiac Arrhythmia, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Corina Anastasaki
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Nicola J Grant
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Rowland R Sillito
- Actual Analytics Ltd, 2.05 Wilkie Building, 22-23 Teviot Row, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK
| | - Judith Zich
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Zhiqiang Zeng
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Karthika Paranthaman
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Anders Peter Larsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Danish National Research Foundation Centre for Cardiac Arrhythmia, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Douglas Armstrong
- Actual Analytics Ltd, 2.05 Wilkie Building, 22-23 Teviot Row, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK; School of Informatics, Institute for Adaptive and Neural Computation, Informatics Forum, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AB, UK
| | - David J Porteous
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK.
| | - E Elizabeth Patton
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK; Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK.
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The serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonist tandospirone improves executive function in common marmosets. Behav Brain Res 2015; 287:120-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Revised: 03/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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