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El Daibani A, Madasu MK, Al-Hasani R, Che T. Limitations and potential of κOR biased agonists for pain and itch management. Neuropharmacology 2024; 258:110061. [PMID: 38960136 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
The concept of ligand bias is based on the premise that different agonists can elicit distinct responses by selectively activating the same receptor. These responses often determine whether an agonist has therapeutic or undesirable effects. Therefore, it would be highly advantageous to have agonists that specifically trigger the therapeutic response. The last two decades have seen a growing trend towards the consideration of ligand bias in the development of ligands to target the κ-opioid receptor (κOR). Most of these ligands selectively favor G-protein signaling over β-arrestin signaling to potentially provide effective pain and itch relief without adverse side effects associated with κOR activation. Importantly, the specific role of β-arrestin 2 in mediating κOR agonist-induced side effects remains unknown, and similarly the therapeutic and side-effect profiles of G-protein-biased κOR agonists have not been established. Furthermore, some drugs previously labeled as G-protein-biased may not exhibit true bias but may instead be either low-intrinsic-efficacy or partial agonists. In this review, we discuss the established methods to test ligand bias, their limitations in measuring bias factors for κOR agonists, as well as recommend the consideration of other systematic factors to correlate the degree of bias signaling and pharmacological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal El Daibani
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Manish K Madasu
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ream Al-Hasani
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Tao Che
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
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2
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Flores-Ramirez FJ, Illenberger JM, Pascasio G, Terenius L, Martin-Fardon R. LY2444296, a κ-opioid receptor antagonist, selectively reduces alcohol drinking in male and female Wistar rats with a history of alcohol dependence. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5804. [PMID: 38461355 PMCID: PMC10925033 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56500-9] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) remains a major public health concern. The dynorphin (DYN)/κ-opioid receptor (KOP) system is involved in actions of alcohol, particularly its withdrawal-associated negative affective states. This study tested the ability of LY2444296, a selective, short-acting, KOP antagonist, to decrease alcohol self-administration in dependent male and female Wistar rats at 8 h abstinence. Animals were trained to orally self-administer 10% alcohol (30 min/day for 21 sessions) and were made dependent via chronic intermittent alcohol vapor exposure for 6 weeks or exposed to air (nondependent). After 6 weeks, the effect of LY2444296 (0, 3, and 10 mg/kg, p.o.) was tested on alcohol self-administration at 8 h of abstinence. A separate cohort of rats was prepared in parallel, and their somatic withdrawal signs and alcohol self-administration were measured after LY2444296 administration at 8 h, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks abstinence. LY2444296 at 3 and 10 mg/kg significantly reduced physical signs of withdrawal in dependent rats at 8 h abstinence, only. Furthermore, 3 and 10 mg/kg selectively decreased alcohol self-administration in dependent rats at only 8 h abstinence. These results highlight the DYN/KOP system in actions of alcohol during acute abstinence, suggesting KOP antagonism could be beneficial for mitigating acute withdrawal signs and, in turn, significantly reduce excessive alcohol consumption associated with AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J Flores-Ramirez
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, SR-107, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.
| | - Jessica M Illenberger
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, SR-107, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Glenn Pascasio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, SR-107, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Lars Terenius
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rémi Martin-Fardon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, SR-107, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
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3
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Nisbett KE, Vendruscolo LF, Koob GF. µ-Opioid receptor antagonism facilitates the anxiolytic-like effect of oxytocin in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:125. [PMID: 38413576 PMCID: PMC10899625 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02830-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Mood and anxiety disorders are leading causes of disability worldwide and are major contributors to the global burden of diseases. Neuropeptides, such as oxytocin and opioid peptides, are important for emotion regulation. Previous studies have demonstrated that oxytocin reduced depression- and anxiety-like behavior in male and female mice, and opioid receptor activation reduced depression-like behavior. However, it remains unclear whether the endogenous opioid system interacts with the oxytocin system to facilitate emotion regulation in male and female mice. We hypothesized that opioid receptor blockade would inhibit the anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of oxytocin. In this study, we systemically administered naloxone, a preferential μ-opioid receptor antagonist, and then intracerebroventricularly administered oxytocin. We then tested mice on the elevated zero maze and the tail suspension tests, respective tests of anxiety- and depression-like behavior. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, naloxone potentiated the anxiolytic-like, but not the antidepressant-like, effect of oxytocin. Using a selective μ-opioid receptor antagonist, D-Phe-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Arg-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH2, and a selective κ-opioid receptor antagonist, norbinaltorphimine, we demonstrate that μ-opioid receptor blockade potentiated the anxiolytic-like effect of oxytocin, whereas κ-opioid receptor blockade inhibited the oxytocin-induced anxiolytic-like effects. The present results suggest that endogenous opioids can regulate the oxytocin system to modulate anxiety-like behavior. Potential clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalin E Nisbett
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Graduate College, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
- Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| | - Leandro F Vendruscolo
- Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - George F Koob
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
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4
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Gumede NAC, Khathi A. The Role of Pro-Opiomelanocortin Derivatives in the Development of Type 2 Diabetes-Associated Myocardial Infarction: Possible Links with Prediabetes. Biomedicines 2024; 12:314. [PMID: 38397916 PMCID: PMC10887103 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction is a major contributor to CVD-related mortality. T2DM is a risk factor for MI. Stress activates the HPA axis, SNS, and endogenous OPS. These POMC derivatives increase the blood glucose and cardiovascular response by inhibiting the PI3K/AkT insulin signaling pathway and increasing cardiac contraction. Opioids regulate the effect of the HPA axis and SNS and they are cardioprotective. The chronic activation of the stress response may lead to insulin resistance, cardiac dysfunction, and MI. Stress and T2DM, therefore, increase the risk of MI. T2DM is preceded by prediabetes. Studies have shown that prediabetes is associated with an increased risk of MI because of inflammation, hyperlipidemia, endothelial dysfunction, and hypertension. The HPA axis is reported to be dysregulated in prediabetes. However, the SNS and the OPS have not been explored during prediabetes. The effect of prediabetes on POMC derivatives has yet to be fully explored and understood. The impact of stress and prediabetes on the cardiovascular response needs to be investigated. This study sought to review the potential impact of prediabetes on the POMC derivatives and pathways that could lead to MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nompumelelo Anna-Cletta Gumede
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban X54001, South Africa;
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Marcus DJ, Bruchas MR. Optical Approaches for Investigating Neuromodulation and G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:1119-1139. [PMID: 37429736 PMCID: PMC10595021 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the fact that roughly 40% of all US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved pharmacological therapeutics target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), there remains a gap in our understanding of the physiologic and functional role of these receptors at the systems level. Although heterologous expression systems and in vitro assays have revealed a tremendous amount about GPCR signaling cascades, how these cascades interact across cell types, tissues, and organ systems remains obscure. Classic behavioral pharmacology experiments lack both the temporal and spatial resolution to resolve these long-standing issues. Over the past half century, there has been a concerted effort toward the development of optical tools for understanding GPCR signaling. From initial ligand uncaging approaches to more recent development of optogenetic techniques, these strategies have allowed researchers to probe longstanding questions in GPCR pharmacology both in vivo and in vitro. These tools have been employed across biologic systems and have allowed for interrogation of everything from specific intramolecular events to pharmacology at the systems level in a spatiotemporally specific manner. In this review, we present a historical perspective on the motivation behind and development of a variety of optical toolkits that have been generated to probe GPCR signaling. Here we highlight how these tools have been used in vivo to uncover the functional role of distinct populations of GPCRs and their signaling cascades at a systems level. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) remain one of the most targeted classes of proteins for pharmaceutical intervention, yet we still have a limited understanding of how their unique signaling cascades effect physiology and behavior at the systems level. In this review, we discuss a vast array of optical techniques that have been devised to probe GPCR signaling both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Marcus
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Pharmacology (M.R.B.), and Department of Bioengineering (M.R.B.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Pharmacology (M.R.B.), and Department of Bioengineering (M.R.B.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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6
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Zhang J, Lu Y, Jia M, Bai Y, Sun L, Dong Z, Tian W, Yin F, Wei S, Wang Y. Kappa opioid receptor in nucleus accumbens regulates depressive-like behaviors following prolonged morphine withdrawal in mice. iScience 2023; 26:107536. [PMID: 37636073 PMCID: PMC10448166 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107536] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolonged withdrawal from opioids leads to negative emotions. Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) plays an important role in opioid addiction and affective disorders. However, the underlying mechanism of KOR in withdrawal-related depression is still lacking. We found that escitalopram treatment had a limited effect in improving depression symptoms in heroin-dependent patients. In mice, we demonstrated prolonged (4 weeks) but not acute (24 h) withdrawal from morphine induced depressive-like behaviors. The number of c-Fos positive cells and the expression of KOR in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), were significantly increased in the prolonged morphine withdrawal mice. Conditional KOR knockdown in NAc significantly improved depressive-like behaviors. Repeated but not acute treatment with the KOR antagonist norBNI improved depressive-like behaviors and reversed PSD95, synaptophysin, p-ERK, p-CREB, and BDNF in NAc. This study demonstrated the important role of striatal KOR in morphine withdrawal-related depressive-like behaviors and offered therapeutic potential for the treatment of withdrawal-related depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
- College of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Ye Lu
- College of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Min Jia
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
- Shaanxi Belt and Road Joint Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Yuying Bai
- College of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Lulu Sun
- College of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Ziqing Dong
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
- Shaanxi Belt and Road Joint Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Wenrong Tian
- College of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Fangyuan Yin
- College of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Shuguang Wei
- College of Forensic Science, School of Medicine, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Yunpeng Wang
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, China
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7
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Yue WWS, Touhara KK, Toma K, Duan X, Julius D. Endogenous Opioid Signaling Regulates Proliferation of Spinal Cord Ependymal Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.07.556726. [PMID: 38883735 PMCID: PMC11178014 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.07.556726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
After injury, mammalian spinal cords develop scars to seal off the damaged area and prevent further injury. However, excessive scarring can hinder neural regeneration and functional recovery (1, 2). These competing actions underscore the importance of developing therapeutic strategies to dynamically modulate the extent of scar formation. Previous research on scar formation has primarily focused on the role of astrocytes, but recent evidence suggests that ependymal cells also participate. Ependymal cells normally form the epithelial layer encasing the central canal, but they undergo massive proliferation and differentiation into astroglia following certain types of injury, becoming a core component of scars (3-7). However, the mechanisms regulating ependymal proliferation in vivo in both healthy and injured conditions remain unclear. Here, we uncover an intercellular kappa (κ) opioid signaling pathway that controls endogenous ependymal proliferation. Specifically, we detect expression of the κ opioid receptor, OPRK1, in a functionally under-characterized cell type called cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons (CSF-cNs). We also discover a neighboring cell population that express the cognate ligand, prodynorphin (PDYN). Importantly, OPRK1 activation excites CSF-cNs, and systemic administration of a κ antagonist enhances ependymal proliferation in uninjured spinal cords in a CSF-cN-dependent manner. Moreover, injecting a κ agonist reduces the proliferation induced by dorsal hemisection. Altogether, our data suggest a regulatory mechanism whereby PDYN + cells tonically release κ opioids to stimulate CSF-cNs, which in turn suppress ependymal proliferation. This endogenous pathway provides a mechanistic basis for the potential use of κ opiates in modulating scar formation and treating spinal cord injuries.
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8
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Cone AL, Wu KK, Kravitz AV, Norris AJ. Kappa opioid receptor activation increases thermogenic energy expenditure which drives increased feeding. iScience 2023; 26:107241. [PMID: 37485355 PMCID: PMC10362357 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioid receptors, including the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), exert control over thermoregulation and feeding behavior. Notably, activation of KOR stimulates food intake, leading to postulation that KOR signaling plays a central role in managing energy intake. KOR has also been proposed as a target for treating obesity. Herein, we report studies examining how roles for KOR signaling in regulating thermogenesis, feeding, and energy balance may be interrelated using pharmacological interventions, genetic tools, quantitative thermal imaging, and metabolic profiling. Our findings demonstrate that activation of KOR in the central nervous system causes increased energy expenditure via brown adipose tissue activation. Importantly, pharmacologic, or genetic inhibition of brown adipose tissue thermogenesis prevented the elevated food intake triggered by KOR activation. Furthermore, our data reveal that KOR-mediated thermogenesis elevation is reversibly disrupted by chronic high-fat diet, implicating KOR signaling as a potential mediator in high-fat diet-induced weight gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron L. Cone
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kenny K. Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alexxai V. Kravitz
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Aaron J. Norris
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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9
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Varastehmoradi B, Smith KL, Müller HK, Elfving B, Sanchez C, Wegener G. Kappa opioid activation changes protein profiles in different regions of the brain relevant to depression. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 72:9-17. [PMID: 37040689 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Depression is a widespread disorder with a significant burden on individuals and society. There are various available treatments for patients with depression. However, not all patients respond adequately to their treatment. Recently, the opioid system has regained interest in depression studies. Research in animals and humans suggest that blocking the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) may potentially alleviate the symptoms of depression. The mechanism behind this effect is not fully understood. Stress and alterations in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA-axis) activity are thought to play a crucial role in depression. This study aimed to characterize stress hormones and stress-related protein expression following activation of KOR using a selective agonist. The longitudinal effect was investigated 24 h after KOR activation using the selective agonist U50,488 in Sprague Dawley rats. Stress-related hormones and protein expression patterns were explored using multiplex bead-based assays and western blotting. We found that KOR activation caused an increase in both adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) in serum. Regarding protein assays in different brain regions, phosphorylated glucocorticoid receptors also increased significantly in thalamus (THL), hypothalamus (HTH), and striatum (STR). C-Fos increased time-dependently in THL following KOR activation, extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) increased significantly in STR and amygdala (AMG), while phosphorylated ERK1/2 decreased during the first 2 h and then increased again in AMG and prefrontal cortex (PFC). This study shows that KOR activation alters the HPA axis and ERK signaling which may cause to develop mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bardia Varastehmoradi
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen L Smith
- Alkermes, Inc., Biology, Waltham, MA, United States of America
| | - Heidi Kaastrup Müller
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Betina Elfving
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Connie Sanchez
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Alkermes, Inc., Biology, Waltham, MA, United States of America
| | - Gregers Wegener
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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10
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van de Wetering R, Ewald A, Welsh S, Kornberger L, Williamson SE, McElroy BD, Butelman ER, Prisinzano TE, Kivell BM. The Kappa Opioid Receptor Agonist 16-Bromo Salvinorin A Has Anti-Cocaine Effects without Significant Effects on Locomotion, Food Reward, Learning and Memory, or Anxiety and Depressive-like Behaviors. Molecules 2023; 28:4848. [PMID: 37375403 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) agonists have preclinical antipsychostimulant effects; however, adverse side effects have limited their therapeutic development. In this preclinical study, conducted in Sprague Dawley rats, B6-SJL mice, and non-human primates (NHPs), we evaluated the G-protein-biased analogue of salvinorin A (SalA), 16-bromo salvinorin A (16-BrSalA), for its anticocaine effects, side effects, and activation of cellular signaling pathways. 16-BrSalA dose-dependently decreased the cocaine-primed reinstatement of drug-seeking behavior in a KOR-dependent manner. It also decreased cocaine-induced hyperactivity, but had no effect on responding for cocaine on a progressive ratio schedule. Compared to SalA, 16-BrSalA had an improved side effect profile, with no significant effects in the elevated plus maze, light-dark test, forced swim test, sucrose self-administration, or novel object recognition; however, it did exhibit conditioned aversive effects. 16-BrSalA increased dopamine transporter (DAT) activity in HEK-293 cells coexpressing DAT and KOR, as well as in rat nucleus accumbens and dorsal striatal tissue. 16-BrSalA also increased the early phase activation of extracellular-signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2, as well as p38 in a KOR-dependent manner. In NHPs, 16-BrSalA caused dose-dependent increases in the neuroendocrine biomarker prolactin, similar to other KOR agonists, at doses without robust sedative effects. These findings highlight that G-protein-biased structural analogues of SalA can have improved pharmacokinetic profiles and fewer side effects while maintaining their anticocaine effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross van de Wetering
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
| | - Amy Ewald
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
| | - Susan Welsh
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
| | - Lindsay Kornberger
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Samuel E Williamson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Bryan D McElroy
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Eduardo R Butelman
- Laboratory on the Biology of Addictive Diseases, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Thomas E Prisinzano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Bronwyn M Kivell
- School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
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11
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Kopruszinski CM, Watanabe M, Martinez AL, Moreira de Souza LH, Dodick DW, Moutal A, Neugebauer V, Porreca F, Navratilova E. Kappa opioid receptor agonists produce sexually dimorphic and prolactin-dependent hyperalgesic priming. Pain 2023; 164:e263-e273. [PMID: 36625833 PMCID: PMC10285741 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Repeated stress produces hyperalgesic priming in preclinical models, but underlying mechanisms remain uncertain. As stress engages kappa opioid receptors (KORs), we hypothesized that repeated administration of KOR agonists might mimic, in part, stress-induced hyperalgesic priming. The potential contribution of circulating prolactin (PRL) and dysregulation of the expression of PRL receptor (PRLR) isoforms in sensory neurons after KOR agonist administration was also investigated. Mice received 3 daily doses of U-69593 or nalfurafine as a "first-hit" stimulus followed by assessment of periorbital tactile allodynia. Sixteen days after the first KOR agonist administration, animals received a subthreshold dose of inhalational umbellulone, a TRPA1 agonist, as the second-hit stimulus and periorbital allodynia was assessed. Cabergoline, a dopamine D2 receptor agonist, was used to inhibit circulating PRL in additional cohorts. Prolactin receptor isoforms were quantified in the V1 region of the trigeminal ganglion after repeated doses of U-69593. In both sexes, KOR agonists increased circulating PRL and produced allodynia that resolved within 14 days. Hyperalgesic priming, revealed by umbellulone-induced allodynia in animals previously treated with the KOR agonists, also occurred in both sexes. However, repeated U-69593 downregulated the PRLR long isoform in trigeminal neurons only in female mice. Umbellulone-induced allodynia was prevented by cabergoline co-treatment during priming with KOR agonists in female, but not male, mice. Hyperalgesic priming therefore occurs in both sexes after either biased or nonbiased KOR agonists. However, a PRL/PRLR-dependence is observed only in female nociceptors possibly contributing to pain in stress-related pain disorders in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M. Kopruszinski
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States. Moutal is now with the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Moe Watanabe
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States. Moutal is now with the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Ashley L. Martinez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States. Moutal is now with the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Luiz Henrique Moreira de Souza
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States. Moutal is now with the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - David W. Dodick
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States. Moutal is now with the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Volker Neugebauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience and Garrison Institute on Aging, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Frank Porreca
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States. Moutal is now with the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Edita Navratilova
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States. Moutal is now with the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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12
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Adzic M, Lukic I, Mitic M, Glavonic E, Dragicevic N, Ivkovic S. Contribution of the opioid system to depression and to the therapeutic effects of classical antidepressants and ketamine. Life Sci 2023:121803. [PMID: 37245840 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) afflicts approximately 5 % of the world population, and about 30-50 % of patients who receive classical antidepressant medications do not achieve complete remission (treatment resistant depressive patients). Emerging evidence suggests that targeting opioid receptors mu (MOP), kappa (KOP), delta (DOP), and the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor (NOP) may yield effective therapeutics for stress-related psychiatric disorders. As depression and pain exhibit significant overlap in their clinical manifestations and molecular mechanisms involved, it is not a surprise that opioids, historically used to alleviate pain, emerged as promising and effective therapeutic options in the treatment of depression. The opioid signaling is dysregulated in depression and numerous preclinical studies and clinical trials strongly suggest that opioid modulation can serve as either an adjuvant or even an alternative to classical monoaminergic antidepressants. Importantly, some classical antidepressants require the opioid receptor modulation to exert their antidepressant effects. Finally, ketamine, a well-known anesthetic whose extremely efficient antidepressant effects were recently discovered, was shown to mediate its antidepressant effects via the endogenous opioid system. Thus, although opioid system modulation is a promising therapeutical venue in the treatment of depression further research is warranted to fully understand the benefits and weaknesses of such approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslav Adzic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca - Institute for Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Iva Lukic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca - Institute for Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milos Mitic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca - Institute for Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Emilija Glavonic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca - Institute for Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nina Dragicevic
- Department of Pharmacy, Singidunum University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sanja Ivkovic
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, Vinca - Institute for Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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13
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Coutens B, Ingram SL. Key differences in regulation of opioid receptors localized to presynaptic terminals compared to somas: Relevance for novel therapeutics. Neuropharmacology 2023; 226:109408. [PMID: 36584882 PMCID: PMC9898207 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Opioid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that regulate activity within peripheral, subcortical and cortical circuits involved in pain, reward, and aversion processing. Opioid receptors are expressed in both presynaptic terminals where they inhibit neurotransmitter release and postsynaptic locations where they act to hyperpolarize neurons and reduce activity. Agonist activation of postsynaptic receptors at the plasma membrane signal via ion channels or cytoplasmic second messengers. Agonist binding initiates regulatory processes that include phosphorylation by G protein receptor kinases (GRKs) and recruitment of beta-arrestins that desensitize and internalize the receptors. Opioid receptors also couple to effectors from endosomes activating intracellular enzymes and kinases. In contrast to postsynaptic opioid receptors, receptors localized to presynaptic terminals are resistant to desensitization such that there is no loss of signaling in the continuous presence of opioids over the same time scale. Thus, the balance of opioid signaling in circuits expressing pre- and postsynaptic opioid receptors is shifted toward inhibition of presynaptic neurotransmitter release during continuous opioid exposure. The functional implication of this shift is not often acknowledged in behavioral studies. This review covers what is currently understood about regulation of opioid/nociceptin receptors, with an emphasis on opioid receptor signaling in pain and reward circuits. Importantly, the review covers regulation of presynaptic receptors and the critical gaps in understanding this area, as well as the opportunities to further understand opioid signaling in brain circuits. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Opioid-induced changes in addiction and pain circuits".
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Affiliation(s)
- Basile Coutens
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Susan L Ingram
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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14
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Kelly E, Conibear A, Henderson G. Biased Agonism: Lessons from Studies of Opioid Receptor Agonists. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2023; 63:491-515. [PMID: 36170657 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-052120-091058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
In ligand bias different agonist drugs are thought to produce distinct signaling outputs when activating the same receptor. If these signaling outputs mediate therapeutic versus adverse drug effects, then agonists that selectively activate the therapeutic signaling pathway would be extremely beneficial. It has long been thought that μ-opioid receptor agonists that selectively activate G protein- over β-arrestin-dependent signaling pathways would produce effective analgesia without the adverse effects such as respiratory depression. However, more recent data indicate that most of the therapeutic and adverse effects of agonist-induced activation of the μ-opioid receptor are actually mediated by the G protein-dependent signaling pathway, and that a number of drugs described as G protein biased in fact may not be biased, but instead may be low-intrinsic-efficacy agonists. In this review we discuss the current state of the field of bias at the μ-opioid receptor and other opioid receptor subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eamonn Kelly
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom;
| | - Alexandra Conibear
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom;
| | - Graeme Henderson
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom;
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15
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Yang R, Tuan RRL, Hwang FJ, Bloodgood DW, Kong D, Ding JB. Dichotomous regulation of striatal plasticity by dynorphin. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:434-447. [PMID: 36460726 PMCID: PMC10188294 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01885-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Modulation of corticostriatal plasticity alters the information flow throughout basal ganglia circuits and represents a fundamental mechanism for motor learning, action selection, and reward. Synaptic plasticity in the striatal direct- and indirect-pathway spiny projection neurons (dSPNs and iSPNs) is regulated by two distinct networks of GPCR signaling cascades. While it is well-known that dopamine D2 and adenosine A2a receptors bi-directionally regulate iSPN plasticity, it remains unclear how D1 signaling modulation of synaptic plasticity is counteracted by dSPN-specific Gi signaling. Here, we show that striatal dynorphin selectively suppresses long-term potentiation (LTP) through Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR) signaling in dSPNs. Both KOR antagonism and conditional deletion of dynorphin in dSPNs enhance LTP counterbalancing with different levels of D1 receptor activation. Behaviorally, mice lacking dynorphin in D1 neurons show comparable motor behavior and reward-based learning, but enhanced flexibility during reversal learning. These findings support a model in which D1R and KOR signaling bi-directionally modulate synaptic plasticity and behavior in the direct pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzhi Yang
- Biology Graduate Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rupa R Lalchandani Tuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fuu-Jiun Hwang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Dong Kong
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jun B Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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16
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Lee HJ, Kim SH, Kim YH, Kim SH, Oh GS, Bae JE, Kim JB, Park NY, Park K, Yeom E, Jeong K, Kim P, Jo DS, Cho DH. Nalfurafine Hydrochloride, a κ-Opioid Receptor Agonist, Induces Melanophagy via PKA Inhibition in B16F1 Cells. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010146. [PMID: 36611940 PMCID: PMC9818167 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Selective autophagy controls cellular homeostasis by degrading unnecessary or damaged cellular components. Melanosomes are specialized organelles that regulate the biogenesis, storage, and transport of melanin in melanocytes. However, the mechanisms underlying melanosomal autophagy, known as the melanophagy pathway, are poorly understood. To better understand the mechanism of melanophagy, we screened an endocrine-hormone chemical library and identified nalfurafine hydrochlorides, a κ-opioid receptor agonist, as a potent inducer of melanophagy. Treatment with nalfurafine hydrochloride increased autophagy and reduced melanin content in alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-treated cells. Furthermore, inhibition of autophagy blocked melanosomal degradation and reversed the nalfurafine hydrochloride-induced decrease in melanin content in α-MSH-treated cells. Consistently, treatment with other κ-opioid receptor agonists, such as MCOPPB or mianserin, inhibited excessive melanin production but induced autophagy in B16F1 cells. Furthermore, nalfurafine hydrochloride inhibited protein kinase A (PKA) activation, which was notably restored by forskolin, a PKA activator. Additionally, forskolin treatment further suppressed melanosomal degradation as well as the anti-pigmentation activity of nalfurafine hydrochloride in α-MSH-treated cells. Collectively, our data suggest that stimulation of κ-opioid receptors induces melanophagy by inhibiting PKA activation in α-MSH-treated B16F1 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Jung Lee
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Hyun Kim
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Hwan Kim
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - So Hyun Kim
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeong Seok Oh
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Eun Bae
- Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Bum Kim
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Na Yeon Park
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyuhee Park
- Bio-center, Gyeonggido Business & Science Accelerator, Gyeonggido, Suwon 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbyul Yeom
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwiwan Jeong
- Bio-center, Gyeonggido Business & Science Accelerator, Gyeonggido, Suwon 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Pansoo Kim
- Bio-center, Gyeonggido Business & Science Accelerator, Gyeonggido, Suwon 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Doo Sin Jo
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (D.S.J.); (D.-H.C.); Tel.: +82-53-950-5382 (D.S.J. & D.-H.C.)
| | - Dong-Hyung Cho
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
- OGASIS Corp. 260, Changyong-daero, Yongtong-gu, Suwon 08826, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (D.S.J.); (D.-H.C.); Tel.: +82-53-950-5382 (D.S.J. & D.-H.C.)
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17
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Zhao J, Carbone J, Farruggia G, Janecka A, Gentilucci L, Calonghi N. Synthesis and Antiproliferative Activity against Cancer Cells of Indole-Aryl-Amide Derivatives. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 28:molecules28010265. [PMID: 36615458 PMCID: PMC9822155 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Indoles constitute a large family of heterocyclic compounds widely occurring in nature which are present in a number of bioactive natural and synthetic compounds, including anticancer agents or atypical opioid agonists. As a result, exponential increases in the development of novel methods for the synthesis of indole-containing compounds have been reported in the literature. A series of indole-aryl amide derivatives 1-7 containing tryptamine or an indolylacetic acid nucleus were designed, synthesized, and evaluated as opioid ligands. These new indole derivatives showed negligible to very low affinity for μ- and δ-opioid receptor (OR). On the other hand, compounds 2, 5 and 7 showed Ki values in the low μM range for κ-OR. Since indoles are well known for their anticancer potential, their effect against a panel of tumor cell lines was tested. The target compounds were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxicity in HT29, HeLa, IGROV-1, MCF7, PC-3, and Jurkat J6 cells. Some of the synthesized compounds showed good activity against the selected tumor cell lines, with the exception of IGROV1. In particular, compound 5 showed a noteworthy selectivity towards HT29 cells, a malignant colonic cell line, without affecting healthy human intestinal cells. Further studies revealed that 5 caused the cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase and promoted apoptosis in HT29 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwei Zhao
- Department of Chemistry “G. Ciamician”, University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Jacopo Carbone
- Department of Chemistry “G. Ciamician”, University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanna Farruggia
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Janecka
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Luca Gentilucci
- Department of Chemistry “G. Ciamician”, University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.G.); (N.C.); Tel.: +39-05-1209-9570 (L.G.); +39-05-1209-1231 (N.C.)
| | - Natalia Calonghi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.G.); (N.C.); Tel.: +39-05-1209-9570 (L.G.); +39-05-1209-1231 (N.C.)
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18
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Lee SJ, Logsdon AF, Yagi M, Baskin BM, Peskind ER, Raskind MM, Cook DG, Schindler AG. The dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor mediates adverse immunological and behavioral outcomes induced by repetitive blast trauma. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:288. [PMID: 36463243 PMCID: PMC9719647 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse pathophysiological and behavioral outcomes related to mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic pain are common following blast exposure and contribute to decreased quality of life, but underlying mechanisms and prophylactic/treatment options remain limited. The dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system helps regulate behavioral and inflammatory responses to stress and injury; however, it has yet to be investigated as a potential mechanism in either humans or animals exposed to blast. We hypothesized that blast-induced KOR activation mediates adverse outcomes related to inflammation and affective behavioral response. METHODS C57Bl/6 adult male mice were singly or repeatedly exposed to either sham (anesthesia only) or blast delivered by a pneumatic shock tube. The selective KOR antagonist norBNI or vehicle (saline) was administered 72 h prior to repetitive blast or sham exposure. Serum and brain were collected 10 min or 4 h post-exposure for dynorphin A-like immunoreactivity and cytokine measurements, respectively. At 1-month post-exposure, mice were tested in a series of behavioral assays related to adverse outcomes reported by humans with blast trauma. RESULTS Repetitive but not single blast exposure resulted in increased brain dynorphin A-like immunoreactivity. norBNI pretreatment blocked or significantly reduced blast-induced increase in serum and brain cytokines, including IL-6, at 4 h post exposure and aversive/anxiety-like behavioral dysfunction at 1-month post-exposure. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate a previously unreported role for the dynorphin/KOR system as a mediator of biochemical and behavioral dysfunction following repetitive blast exposure and highlight this system as a potential prophylactic/therapeutic treatment target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhjung Janet Lee
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Aric F. Logsdon
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Mayumi Yagi
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Britahny M. Baskin
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Elaine. R. Peskind
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Murray M. Raskind
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - David G. Cook
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Abigail. G. Schindler
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
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19
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Liu-Chen LY, Huang P. Signaling underlying kappa opioid receptor-mediated behaviors in rodents. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:964724. [PMID: 36408401 PMCID: PMC9670127 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.964724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) agonists are potentially useful as analgesic and anti-pruritic agents, for prevention and treatment of substance use disorders, and for treatment of demyelinating diseases. However, side effects of KOR agonists, including psychotomimesis, dysphoria, and sedation, have caused early termination of clinical trials. Understanding the signaling mechanisms underlying the beneficial therapeutic effects and the adverse side effects may help in the development of KOR agonist compounds. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge in this regard in five sections. First, studies conducted on mutant mouse lines (GRK3-/-, p38alpha MAPK-/-, β-arrestin2-/-, phosphorylation-deficient KOR) are summarized. In addition, the abilities of four distinct KOR agonists, which have analgesic and anti-pruritic effects with different side effect profiles, to cause KOR phosphorylation are discussed. Second, investigations on the KOR agonist nalfurafine, both in vitro and in vivo are reviewed. Nalfurafine was the first KOR full agonist approved for clinical use and in the therapeutic dose range it did not produce significant side effects associated with typical KOR agonists. Third, large-scale high-throughput phosphoproteomic studies without a priori hypotheses are described. These studies have revealed that KOR-mediated side effects are associated with many signaling pathways. Fourth, several novel G protein-biased KOR agonists that have been characterized for in vitro biochemical properties and agonist biases and in vivo behavior effects are described. Lastly, possible mechanisms underlying KOR-mediated CPA, hypolocomotion and motor incoordination are discussed. Overall, it is agreed upon that the analgesic and anti-pruritic effects of KOR agonists are mediated via G protein signaling. However, there is no consensus on the mechanisms underlying their side effects. GRK3, p38 MAPK, β-arrestin2, mTOR pathway, CB1 cannabinoid receptor and protein kinase C have been implicated in one side effect or another. For drug discovery, after initial in vitro characterization, in vivo pharmacological characterizations in various behavior tests are still the most crucial steps and dose separation between beneficial therapeutic effects and adverse side effects are the critical determinant for the compounds to be moved forward for clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee-Yuan Liu-Chen
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Department of Neural Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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20
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Terminel MN, Bassil C, Rau J, Trevino A, Ruiz C, Alaniz R, Hook MA. Morphine-induced changes in the function of microglia and macrophages after acute spinal cord injury. BMC Neurosci 2022; 23:58. [PMID: 36217122 PMCID: PMC9552511 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-022-00739-3] [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: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Opioids are among the most effective and commonly prescribed analgesics for the treatment of acute pain after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, morphine administration in the early phase of SCI undermines locomotor recovery, increases cell death, and decreases overall health in a rodent contusion model. Based on our previous studies we hypothesize that morphine acts on classic opioid receptors to alter the immune response. Indeed, we found that a single dose of intrathecal morphine increases the expression of activated microglia and macrophages at the injury site. Whether similar effects of morphine would be seen with repeated intravenous administration, more closely simulating clinical treatment, is not known. Methods To address this, we used flow cytometry to examine changes in the temporal expression of microglia and macrophages after SCI and intravenous morphine. Next, we explored whether morphine changed the function of these cells through the engagement of cell-signaling pathways linked to neurotoxicity using Western blot analysis. Results Our flow cytometry studies showed that 3 consecutive days of morphine administration after an SCI significantly increased the number of microglia and macrophages around the lesion. Using Western blot analysis, we also found that repeated administration of morphine increases β-arrestin, ERK-1 and dynorphin (an endogenous kappa opioid receptor agonist) production by microglia and macrophages. Conclusions These results suggest that morphine administered immediately after an SCI changes the innate immune response by increasing the number of immune cells and altering neuropeptide synthesis by these cells. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12868-022-00739-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabel N Terminel
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway 47, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA.
| | - Carla Bassil
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway 47, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
| | - Josephina Rau
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway 47, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
| | - Amanda Trevino
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway 47, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
| | - Cristina Ruiz
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway 47, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
| | - Robert Alaniz
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway 47, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
| | - Michelle A Hook
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway 47, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
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21
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Kopruszinski CM, Vizin R, Watanabe M, Martinez AL, de Souza LHM, Dodick DW, Porreca F, Navratilova E. Exploring the neurobiology of the premonitory phase of migraine preclinically - a role for hypothalamic kappa opioid receptors? J Headache Pain 2022; 23:126. [PMID: 36175828 PMCID: PMC9524131 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-022-01497-7] [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: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The migraine premonitory phase is characterized in part by increased thirst, urination and yawning. Imaging studies show that the hypothalamus is activated in the premonitory phase. Stress is a well know migraine initiation factor which was demonstrated to engage dynorphin/kappa opioid receptors (KOR) signaling in several brain regions, including the hypothalamus. This study proposes the exploration of the possible link between hypothalamic KOR and migraine premonitory symptoms in rodent models. Methods Rats were treated systemically with the KOR agonist U-69,593 followed by yawning and urination monitoring. Apomorphine, a dopamine D1/2 agonist, was used as a positive control for yawning behaviors. Urination and water consumption following systemic administration of U-69,593 was also assessed. To examine if KOR activation specifically in the hypothalamus can promote premonitory symptoms, AAV8-hSyn-DIO-hM4Di (Gi-DREADD)-mCherry viral vector was microinjected into the right arcuate nucleus (ARC) of female and male KORCRE or KORWT mice. Four weeks after the injection, clozapine N-oxide (CNO) was administered systemically followed by the assessment of urination, water consumption and tactile sensory response. Results Systemic administration of U-69,593 increased urination but did not produce yawning in rats. Systemic KOR agonist also increased urination in mice as well as water consumption. Cell specific Gi-DREADD activation (i.e., inhibition through Gi-coupled signaling) of KORCRE neurons in the ARC also increased water consumption and the total volume of urine in mice but did not affect tactile sensory responses. Conclusion Our studies in rodents identified the KOR in a hypothalamic region as a mechanism that promotes behaviors consistent with clinically-observed premonitory symptoms of migraine, including increased thirst and urination but not yawning. Importantly, these behaviors occurred in the absence of pain responses, consistent with the emergence of the premonitory phase before the headache phase. Early intervention for preventive treatment even before the headache phase may be achievable by targeting the hypothalamic KOR. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10194-022-01497-7.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robson Vizin
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Moe Watanabe
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Ashley L Martinez
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | | | - Frank Porreca
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Department of Collaborative Research, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, USA
| | - Edita Navratilova
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA. .,Department of Collaborative Research, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, USA.
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22
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Wedemeyer MJ, Jennings EM, Smith HR, Chavera TS, Jamshidi RJ, Berg KA, Clarke WP. 14-3-3γ mediates the long-term inhibition of peripheral kappa opioid receptor antinociceptive signaling by norbinaltorphimine. Neuropharmacology 2022; 220:109251. [PMID: 36126728 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Long-term inhibition of kappa opioid receptor (KOR) signaling in peripheral pain-sensing neurons is a potential obstacle for development of peripherally-restricted KOR agonists that produce analgesia. Such a long-term inhibitory mechanism is invoked from activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) that follows a single injection of the KOR antagonist norbinaltorphimine (norBNI). This effect requires protein synthesis of an unknown mediator in peripheral pain-sensing neurons. Using 2D difference gel electrophoresis with tandem mass spectrometry, we have identified that the scaffolding protein 14-3-3γ is upregulated in peripheral sensory neurons following activation of JNK with norBNI. Knockdown of 14-3-3γ by siRNA eliminates the long-term reduction in KOR-mediated cAMP signaling by norBNI in peripheral sensory neurons in culture. Similarly, knockdown of 14-3-3γ in the rat hind paw abolished the norBNI-mediated long-term reduction in peripheral KOR-mediated antinociception. Further, overexpression of 14-3-3γ in KOR expressing CHO cells prevented KOR-mediated inhibition of cAMP signaling. These long-term effects are selective for KOR as heterologous regulation of other receptor systems was not observed. These data suggest that 14-3-3γ is both necessary and sufficient for the long-term inhibition of KOR by norBNI in peripheral sensory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Wedemeyer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Elaine M Jennings
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Hudson R Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Teresa S Chavera
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Raehannah J Jamshidi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kelly A Berg
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - William P Clarke
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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23
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Eiden LE, Hernández VS, Jiang SZ, Zhang L. Neuropeptides and small-molecule amine transmitters: cooperative signaling in the nervous system. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:492. [PMID: 35997826 PMCID: PMC11072502 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04451-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are expressed in cell-specific patterns throughout mammalian brain. Neuropeptide gene expression has been useful for clustering neurons by phenotype, based on single-cell transcriptomics, and for defining specific functional circuits throughout the brain. How neuropeptides function as first messengers in inter-neuronal communication, in cooperation with classical small-molecule amine transmitters (SMATs) is a current topic of systems neurobiology. Questions include how neuropeptides and SMATs cooperate in neurotransmission at the molecular, cellular and circuit levels; whether neuropeptides and SMATs always co-exist in neurons; where neuropeptides and SMATs are stored in the neuron, released from the neuron and acting, and at which receptors, after release; and how neuropeptides affect 'classical' transmitter function, both directly upon co-release, and indirectly, via long-term regulation of gene transcription and neuronal plasticity. Here, we review an extensive body of data about the distribution of neuropeptides and their receptors, their actions after neuronal release, and their function based on pharmacological and genetic loss- and gain-of-function experiments, that addresses these questions, fundamental to understanding brain function, and development of neuropeptide-based, and potentially combinatorial peptide/SMAT-based, neurotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee E Eiden
- Section On Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 49 Convent Drive, Room 5A38, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Vito S Hernández
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sunny Z Jiang
- Section On Molecular Neuroscience, National Institute of Mental Health, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 49 Convent Drive, Room 5A38, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Limei Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico.
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24
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Walwyn WM, Valenza M. Editorial: Kappa opioid receptors revealed: Disentangling the pharmacology to open up new therapeutic strategies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:973780. [PMID: 36034837 PMCID: PMC9413185 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.973780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Margaret Walwyn
- Jane & Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Marta Valenza
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Marta Valenza,
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25
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Casello SM, Flores RJ, Yarur HE, Wang H, Awanyai M, Arenivar MA, Jaime-Lara RB, Bravo-Rivera H, Tejeda HA. Neuropeptide System Regulation of Prefrontal Cortex Circuitry: Implications for Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:796443. [PMID: 35800635 PMCID: PMC9255232 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.796443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides, a diverse class of signaling molecules in the nervous system, modulate various biological effects including membrane excitability, synaptic transmission and synaptogenesis, gene expression, and glial cell architecture and function. To date, most of what is known about neuropeptide action is limited to subcortical brain structures and tissue outside of the central nervous system. Thus, there is a knowledge gap in our understanding of neuropeptide function within cortical circuits. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of various families of neuropeptides and their cognate receptors that are expressed in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Specifically, we highlight dynorphin, enkephalin, corticotropin-releasing factor, cholecystokinin, somatostatin, neuropeptide Y, and vasoactive intestinal peptide. Further, we review the implication of neuropeptide signaling in prefrontal cortical circuit function and use as potential therapeutic targets. Together, this review summarizes established knowledge and highlights unknowns of neuropeptide modulation of neural function underlying various biological effects while offering insights for future research. An increased emphasis in this area of study is necessary to elucidate basic principles of the diverse signaling molecules used in cortical circuits beyond fast excitatory and inhibitory transmitters as well as consider components of neuropeptide action in the PFC as a potential therapeutic target for neurological disorders. Therefore, this review not only sheds light on the importance of cortical neuropeptide studies, but also provides a comprehensive overview of neuropeptide action in the PFC to serve as a roadmap for future studies in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne M. Casello
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rodolfo J. Flores
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hector E. Yarur
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Huikun Wang
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Monique Awanyai
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Miguel A. Arenivar
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rosario B. Jaime-Lara
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hector Bravo-Rivera
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hugo A. Tejeda
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Hugo A. Tejeda,
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26
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Dalefield ML, Scouller B, Bibi R, Kivell BM. The Kappa Opioid Receptor: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Multiple Pathologies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:837671. [PMID: 35795569 PMCID: PMC9251383 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.837671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Kappa-opioid receptors (KOR) are widely expressed throughout the central nervous system, where they modulate a range of physiological processes depending on their location, including stress, mood, reward, pain, inflammation, and remyelination. However, clinical use of KOR agonists is limited by adverse effects such as dysphoria, aversion, and sedation. Within the drug-development field KOR agonists have been extensively investigated for the treatment of many centrally mediated nociceptive disorders including pruritis and pain. KOR agonists are potential alternatives to mu-opioid receptor (MOR) agonists for the treatment of pain due to their anti-nociceptive effects, lack of abuse potential, and reduced respiratory depressive effects, however, dysphoric side-effects have limited their widespread clinical use. Other diseases for which KOR agonists hold promising therapeutic potential include pruritis, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, inflammatory diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, cancer, and ischemia. This review highlights recent drug-development efforts targeting KOR, including the development of G-protein–biased ligands, mixed opioid agonists, and peripherally restricted ligands to reduce side-effects. We also highlight the current KOR agonists that are in preclinical development or undergoing clinical trials.
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27
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Haun HL, Lebonville CL, Solomon MG, Griffin WC, Lopez MF, Becker HC. Dynorphin/Kappa Opioid Receptor Activity Within the Extended Amygdala Contributes to Stress-Enhanced Alcohol Drinking in Mice. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 91:1019-1028. [PMID: 35190188 PMCID: PMC9167153 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While there is high comorbidity of stress-related disorders and alcohol use disorder, few effective treatments are available and elucidating underlying neurobiological mechanisms has been hampered by a general lack of reliable animal models. Here, we use a novel mouse model demonstrating robust and reproducible stress-enhanced alcohol drinking to examine the role of dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor (DYN/KOR) activity within the extended amygdala in mediating this stress-alcohol interaction. METHODS Mice received repeated weekly cycles of chronic intermittent ethanol exposure alternating with weekly drinking sessions ± forced swim stress exposure. Pdyn messenger RNA expression was measured in the central amygdala (CeA), and DYN-expressing CeA neurons were then targeted for chemogenetic inhibition. Finally, a KOR antagonist was microinjected into the CeA or bed nucleus of the stria terminalis to examine the role of KOR signaling in promoting stress-enhanced drinking. RESULTS Stress (forced swim stress) selectively increased alcohol drinking in mice with a history of chronic intermittent ethanol exposure, and this was accompanied by elevated Pdyn messenger RNA levels in the CeA. Targeted chemogenetic silencing of DYN-expressing CeA neurons blocked stress-enhanced drinking, and KOR antagonism in the CeA or bed nucleus of the stria terminalis significantly reduced stress-induced elevated alcohol consumption without altering moderate intake in control mice. CONCLUSIONS Using a novel and robust model of stress-enhanced alcohol drinking, a significant role for DYN/KOR activity within extended amygdala circuitry in mediating this effect was demonstrated, thereby providing further evidence that the DYN/KOR system may be a valuable target in the development of more effective treatments for individuals presenting with comorbidity of stress-related disorders and alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold L Haun
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Christina L Lebonville
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Matthew G Solomon
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - William C Griffin
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Marcelo F Lopez
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Howard C Becker
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Ralph H. Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina.
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28
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Leconte C, Mongeau R, Noble F. Traumatic Stress-Induced Vulnerability to Addiction: Critical Role of the Dynorphin/Kappa Opioid Receptor System. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:856672. [PMID: 35571111 PMCID: PMC9091501 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.856672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUD) may emerge from an individual’s attempt to limit negative affective states and symptoms linked to stress. Indeed, SUD is highly comorbid with chronic stress, traumatic stress, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and treatments approved for each pathology individually often failed to have a therapeutic efficiency in such comorbid patients. The kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) and its endogenous ligand dynorphin (DYN), seem to play a key role in the occurrence of this comorbidity. The DYN/KOR function is increased either in traumatic stress or during drug use, dependence acquisition and DYN is released during stress. The behavioural effects of stress related to the DYN/KOR system include anxiety, dissociative and depressive symptoms, as well as increased conditioned fear response. Furthermore, the DYN/KOR system is implicated in negative reinforcement after the euphoric effects of a drug of abuse ends. During chronic drug consumption DYN/KOR functions increase and facilitate tolerance and dependence. The drug-seeking behaviour induced by KOR activation can be retrieved either during the development of an addictive behaviour, or during relapse after withdrawal. DYN is known to be one of the most powerful negative modulators of dopamine signalling, notably in brain structures implicated in both reward and fear circuitries. KOR are also acting as inhibitory heteroreceptors on serotonin neurons. Moreover, the DYN/KOR system cross-regulate with corticotropin-releasing factor in the brain. The sexual dimorphism of the DYN/KOR system could be the cause of the gender differences observed in patients with SUD or/and traumatic stress-related pathologies. This review underlies experimental and clinical results emphasizing the DYN/KOR system as common mechanisms shared by SUD or/and traumatic stress-related pathologies, and suggests KOR antagonist as a new pharmacological strategy to treat this comorbidity.
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29
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Chen C, Huang P, Bland K, Li M, Zhang Y, Liu-Chen LY. Agonist-Promoted Phosphorylation and Internalization of the Kappa Opioid Receptor in Mouse Brains: Lack of Connection With Conditioned Place Aversion. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:835809. [PMID: 35652052 PMCID: PMC9149264 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.835809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Selective kappa opioid receptor (KOR) agonists are promising antipruritic agents and analgesics. However, clinical development of KOR agonists has been limited by side effects, including psychotomimetic effects, dysphoria, and sedation, except for nalfurafine, and recently. CR845 (difelikefalin). Activation of KOR elicits G protein- and β-arrestin-mediated signaling. KOR-induced analgesic and antipruritic effects are mediated by G protein signaling. However, different results have been reported as to whether conditioned place aversion (CPA) induced by KOR agonists is mediated by β-arrestin signaling. In this study, we examined in male mice if there was a connection between agonist-promoted CPA and KOR phosphorylation and internalization, proxies for β-arrestin recruitment in vivo using four KOR agonists. Herein, we demonstrated that at doses producing maximal effective analgesic and antiscratch effects, U50,488H, MOM-SalB, and 42B, but not nalfurafine, promoted KOR phosphorylation at T363 and S369 in mouse brains, as detected by immunoblotting with phospho-KOR-specific antibodies. In addition, at doses producing maximal effective analgesic and antiscratch effects, U50,488H, MOM-SalB, and 42B, but not nalfurafine, caused KOR internalization in the ventral tegmental area of a mutant mouse line expressing a fusion protein of KOR conjugated at the C-terminus with tdTomato (KtdT). We have reported previously that the KOR agonists U50,488H and methoxymethyl salvinorin B (MOM-SalB) cause CPA, whereas nalfurafine and 42B do not, at doses effective for analgesic and antiscratch effects. Taken together, these data reveal a lack of connection between agonist-promoted KOR-mediated CPA with agonist-induced KOR phosphorylation and internalization in male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongguang Chen
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Neural Sciences, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Peng Huang
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Neural Sciences, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kathryn Bland
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Neural Sciences, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Mengchu Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Lee-Yuan Liu-Chen
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Neural Sciences, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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30
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Sturaro C, Malfacini D, Argentieri M, Djeujo FM, Marzola E, Albanese V, Ruzza C, Guerrini R, Calo’ G, Molinari P. Pharmacology of Kappa Opioid Receptors: Novel Assays and Ligands. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:873082. [PMID: 35529436 PMCID: PMC9068900 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.873082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the in vitro pharmacology of the human kappa opioid receptor using multiple assays, including calcium mobilization in cells expressing chimeric G proteins, the dynamic mass redistribution (DMR) label-free assay, and a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assay that allows measurement of receptor interaction with G protein and β-arrestin 2. In all assays, dynorphin A, U-69,593, and [D-Pro10]dyn(1-11)-NH2 behaved as full agonists with the following rank order of potency [D-Pro10]dyn(1-11)-NH2 > dynorphin A ≥ U-69,593. [Dmt1,Tic2]dyn(1-11)-NH2 behaved as a moderate potency pure antagonist in the kappa-β-arrestin 2 interaction assay and as low efficacy partial agonist in the other assays. Norbinaltorphimine acted as a highly potent and pure antagonist in all assays except kappa-G protein interaction, where it displayed efficacy as an inverse agonist. The pharmacological actions of novel kappa ligands, namely the dynorphin A tetrameric derivative PWT2-Dyn A and the palmitoylated derivative Dyn A-palmitic, were also investigated. PWT2-Dyn A and Dyn A-palmitic mimicked dynorphin A effects in all assays showing similar maximal effects but 3–10 fold lower potency. In conclusion, in the present study, multiple in vitro assays for the kappa receptor have been set up and pharmacologically validated. In addition, PWT2-Dyn A and Dyn A-palmitic were characterized as potent full agonists; these compounds are worthy of further investigation in vivo for those conditions in which the activation of the kappa opioid receptor elicits beneficial effects e.g. pain and pruritus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Sturaro
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Davide Malfacini,
| | - Michela Argentieri
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francine M. Djeujo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Erika Marzola
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Albanese
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Girolamo Calo’
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paola Molinari
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
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French AR, van Rijn RM. An updated assessment of the translational promise of G-protein-biased kappa opioid receptor agonists to treat pain and other indications without debilitating adverse effects. Pharmacol Res 2022; 177:106091. [PMID: 35101565 PMCID: PMC8923989 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Kappa opioid receptor (κOR) agonists lack the abuse liability and respiratory depression effects of clinically used mu opioid receptor (μOR) analgesics and are hypothesized to be safer alternatives. However, κOR agonists have limiting adverse effects of their own, including aversion, sedation, and mood effects, that have hampered their clinical translation. Studies performed over the last 15 years have suggested that these adverse effects could result from activation of distinct intracellular signaling pathways that are dependent on β-arrestin, whereas signaling downstream of G protein activation produces antinociception. This led to the hypothesis that agonists biased away from β-arrestin signaling would have improved therapeutic windows over traditional unbiased agonists and allow for clinical development of analgesic G-protein-biased κOR agonists. Given a recent controversy regarding the benefits of G-protein-biased μOR agonists, it is timely to reassess the therapeutic promise of G-protein-biased κOR agonists. Here we review recent discoveries from preclinical κOR studies and critically evaluate the therapeutic windows of G-protein-biased κOR agonists in each of the adverse effects above. Overall, we find that G-protein-biased κOR agonists generally have improved therapeutic window relative to unbiased agonists, although frequently study design limits strong conclusions in this regard. However, a steady flow of newly developed biased κOR agonists paired with recently engineered behavioral and molecular tools puts the κOR field in a prime position to make major advances in our understanding of κOR function and fulfill the promise of translating a new generation of biased κOR agonists to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R French
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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Zan GY, Sun X, Wang YJ, Liu R, Wang CY, Du WJ, Guo LB, Chai JR, Li QL, Liu ZQ, Liu JG. Amygdala dynorphin/κ opioid receptor system modulates depressive-like behavior in mice following chronic social defeat stress. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:577-587. [PMID: 34035484 PMCID: PMC8888759 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-021-00677-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depression disorder is a severe and recurrent neuropsychological disorder characterized by lowered mood and social activity and cognitive impairment. Owing to unclear molecular mechanisms of depression, limited interventions are available in clinic. In this study we investigated the role of dynorphin/κ opioid receptor system in the development of depression. Mice were subjected to chronic social defeat stress for 14 days. Chronic social defeat stress induced significant social avoidance in mice characterized by decreased time duration in the interaction zone and increased time duration in the corner zone. Pre-administration of a κ opioid receptor antagonist norBNI (10 mg/kg, i.p.) could prevent the development of social avoidance induced by chronic social defeat stress. Social avoidance was not observed in κ opioid receptor knockout mice subjected to chronic social defeat stress. We further revealed that social defeat stress activated c-fos and ERK signaling in the amygdala without affecting the NAc, hippocampus and hypothalamus, and ERK activation was blocked by systemic injection of norBNI. Finally, the expression of dynorphin A, the endogenous ligand of κ opioid receptor, was significantly increased in the amygdala following social defeat stress; microinjection of norBNI into the amygdala prevented the development of depressive-like behaviors caused by social defeat stress. The present study demonstrates that upregulated dynorphin/κ opioid receptor system in the amygdala leads to the emergence of depression following chronic social defeat stress, and sheds light on κ opioid receptor antagonists as potential therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of depression following chronic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-ying Zan
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China ,grid.419093.60000 0004 0619 8396Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiang Sun
- grid.252251.30000 0004 1757 8247Key Laboratory of Xin’an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of R&D of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230038, China
| | - Yu-jun Wang
- grid.419093.60000 0004 0619 8396Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Rui Liu
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Chen-yao Wang
- grid.419093.60000 0004 0619 8396Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China ,grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wei-jia Du
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Liu-bin Guo
- grid.419093.60000 0004 0619 8396Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jing-rui Chai
- grid.419093.60000 0004 0619 8396Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qing-lin Li
- grid.252251.30000 0004 1757 8247Key Laboratory of Xin’an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of R&D of Chinese Medicine, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230038, China
| | - Zhi-qiang Liu
- grid.24516.340000000123704535Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Jing-gen Liu
- grid.419093.60000 0004 0619 8396Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
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Sex- and β-arrestin-dependent effects of kappa opioid receptor-mediated ethanol consumption. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 216:173377. [PMID: 35364122 PMCID: PMC9064988 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The kappa opioid receptor is a known regulator of ethanol consumption, but the molecular mechanisms behind its actions have been underexplored. The scaffolding protein β-arrestin 2 has previously been implicated in driving ethanol consumption at the related delta opioid receptor and has also been suggested to be a driver behind other negative kappa opioid receptor mediated effects. Here, we used kappa opioid agonists with different efficacies for recruiting β-arrestin 2 and knockout animals to determine whether there is a role for β-arrestin 2 in the modulation of voluntary ethanol consumption by the kappa opioid receptor. We find that an agonist with low β-arrestin 2 efficacy more consistently lowers ethanol consumption than agonists with high efficacy for β-arrestin 2. However, knockdown of β-arrestin 2 amplifies the ethanol consumption-promoting effects of the arrestin-recruiting kappa agonists U50,488 and nalfurafine. We control for potentially confounding sedative effects at the kappa opioid receptor and find that β-arrestin 2 is not necessary for kappa opioid receptor-mediated sedation, and that sedation does not correlate with effects on ethanol consumption. Overall, the results suggest a complex relationship between agonist profile, sex, and kappa opioid receptor modulation of ethanol consumption, with little role for kappa opioid receptor-mediated sedation.
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Van Baelen AC, Robin P, Kessler P, Maïga A, Gilles N, Servent D. Structural and Functional Diversity of Animal Toxins Interacting With GPCRs. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:811365. [PMID: 35198603 PMCID: PMC8859281 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.811365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptide toxins from venoms have undergone a long evolutionary process allowing host defense or prey capture and making them highly selective and potent for their target. This has resulted in the emergence of a large panel of toxins from a wide diversity of species, with varied structures and multiple associated biological functions. In this way, animal toxins constitute an inexhaustible reservoir of druggable molecules due to their interesting pharmacological properties. One of the most interesting classes of therapeutic targets is the G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). GPCRs represent the largest family of membrane receptors in mammals with approximately 800 different members. They are involved in almost all biological functions and are the target of almost 30% of drugs currently on the market. Given the interest of GPCRs in the therapeutic field, the study of toxins that can interact with and modulate their activity with the purpose of drug development is of particular importance. The present review focuses on toxins targeting GPCRs, including peptide-interacting receptors or aminergic receptors, with a particular focus on structural aspects and, when relevant, on potential medical applications. The toxins described here exhibit a great diversity in size, from 10 to 80 amino acids long, in disulfide bridges, from none to five, and belong to a large panel of structural scaffolds. Particular toxin structures developed here include inhibitory cystine knot (ICK), three-finger fold, and Kunitz-type toxins. We summarize current knowledge on the structural and functional diversity of toxins interacting with GPCRs, concerning first the agonist-mimicking toxins that act as endogenous agonists targeting the corresponding receptor, and second the toxins that differ structurally from natural agonists and which display agonist, antagonist, or allosteric properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Cécile Van Baelen
- CEA, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Philippe Robin
- CEA, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Pascal Kessler
- CEA, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Arhamatoulaye Maïga
- CEA, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
- CHU Sainte Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Nicolas Gilles
- CEA, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Denis Servent
- CEA, Département Médicaments et Technologies pour La Santé (DMTS), SIMoS, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
- *Correspondence: Denis Servent,
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Massaly N, Markovic T, Creed M, Al-Hasani R, Cahill CM, Moron JA. Pain, negative affective states and opioid-based analgesics: Safer pain therapies to dampen addiction. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 157:31-68. [PMID: 33648672 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Across centuries and civilizations opioids have been used to relieve pain. In our modern societies, opioid-based analgesics remain one of the most efficient treatments for acute pain. However, the long-term use of opioids can lead to the development of analgesic tolerance, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, opioid use disorders, and overdose, which can ultimately produce respiratory depressant effects with fatal consequences. In addition to the nociceptive sensory component of pain, negative affective states arising from persistent pain represent a risk factor for developing an opioid use disorder. Several studies have indicated that the increase in prescribed opioid analgesics since the 1990s represents the root of our current opioid epidemic. In this review, we will present our current knowledge on the endogenous opioid system within the pain neuroaxis and the plastic changes occurring in this system that may underlie the occurrence of pain-induced negative affect leading to misuse and abuse of opioid medications. Dissecting the allostatic neuronal changes occurring during pain is the most promising avenue to uncover novel targets for the development of safer pain medications. We will discuss this along with current and potential approaches to treat pain-induced negative affective states that lead to drug misuse. Moreover, this chapter will provide a discussion on potential avenues to reduce the abuse potential of new analgesic drugs and highlight a basis for future research and drug development based on recent advances in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Massaly
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.
| | - Tamara Markovic
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Meaghan Creed
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Ream Al-Hasani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, St. Louis College of Pharmacy, St. Louis, MO, United States; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Catherine M Cahill
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioural Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Shirley and Stefan Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Jane & Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jose A Moron
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
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36
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Fundamentals of the Dynorphins/Kappa Opioid Receptor System: From Distribution to Signaling and Function. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 271:3-21. [PMID: 33754230 PMCID: PMC9013522 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This chapter provides a general introduction to the dynorphins (DYNs)/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system, including DYN peptides, neuroanatomy of the DYNs/KOR system, cellular signaling, and in vivo behavioral effects of KOR activation and inhibition. It is intended to serve as a primer for the book and to provide a basic background for the chapters in the book.
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Best KM, Mojena MM, Barr GA, Schmidt HD, Cohen AS. Endogenous Opioid Dynorphin Is a Potential Link between Traumatic Brain Injury, Chronic Pain, and Substance Use Disorder. J Neurotrauma 2022; 39:1-19. [PMID: 34751584 PMCID: PMC8978570 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2021.0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health problem associated with numerous physical and neuropsychiatric comorbidities. Chronic pain is prevalent and interferes with post-injury functioning and quality of life, whereas substance use disorder (SUD) is the third most common neuropsychiatric diagnosis after TBI. Neither of these conditions has a clear mechanistic explanation based on the known pathophysiology of TBI. Dynorphin is an endogenous opioid neuropeptide that is significantly dysregulated after TBI. Both dynorphin and its primary receptor, the ĸ-opioid receptor (KOR), are implicated in the neuropathology of chronic pain and SUD. Here, we review the known roles of dynorphin and KORs in chronic pain and SUDs. We synthesize this information with our current understanding of TBI and highlight potential mechanistic parallels between and across conditions that suggest a role for dynorphin in long-term sequelae after TBI. In pain studies, dynorphin/KOR activation has either antinociceptive or pro-nociceptive effects, and there are similarities between the signaling pathways influenced by dynorphin and those underlying development of chronic pain. Moreover, the dynorphin/KOR system is considered a key regulator of the negative affective state that characterizes drug withdrawal and protracted abstinence in SUD, and molecular and neurochemical changes observed during the development of SUD are mirrored by the pathophysiology of TBI. We conclude by proposing hypotheses and directions for future research aimed at elucidating the potential role of dynorphin/KOR in chronic pain and/or SUD after TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin M. Best
- Department of Nursing and Clinical Care Services, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Marissa M. Mojena
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gordon A. Barr
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Psychology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Heath D. Schmidt
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Akiva S. Cohen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Address correspondence to: Akiva S. Cohen, PhD, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Room 816-I, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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38
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Aldrich JV, McLaughlin JP. Peptide Kappa Opioid Receptor Ligands and Their Potential for Drug Development. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 271:197-220. [PMID: 34463847 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ligands for kappa opioid receptors (KOR) have potential uses as non-addictive analgesics and for the treatment of pruritus, mood disorders, and substance abuse. These areas continue to have major unmet medical needs. Significant advances have been made in recent years in the preclinical development of novel opioid peptides, notably ones with structural features that inherently impart stability to proteases. Following a brief discussion of the potential therapeutic applications of KOR agonists and antagonists, this review focuses on two series of novel opioid peptides, all-D-amino acid tetrapeptides as peripherally selective KOR agonists for the treatment of pain and pruritus without centrally mediated side effects, and macrocyclic tetrapeptides based on CJ-15,208 that can exhibit different opioid profiles with potential applications such as analgesics and treatments for substance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane V Aldrich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Jay P McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Abstract
Temporal lobe epilepsy is considered to be one of the most common and severe forms of focal epilepsies. Patients frequently develop cognitive deficits and emotional blunting along progression of the disease. The high incidence of refractoriness to antiepileptic drugs and a frequent lack of admissibility to surgery pose an unmet medical challenge. In the urgent quest for novel treatment strategies, neuropeptides and their receptors are interesting candidates. However, their therapeutic potential has not yet been fully exploited. This chapter focuses on the functional role of the dynorphins (Dyns) and the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system in temporal lobe epilepsy and the hippocampus.Genetic polymorphisms in the prepro-dynorphin (pDyn) gene causing lower levels of Dyns in humans and pDyn gene knockout in mice increase the risk to develop epilepsy. This suggests a role of Dyns and KOR as modulators of neuronal excitability. Indeed, KOR agonists induce inhibition of presynaptic neurotransmitter release, as well as postsynaptic hyperpolarization in glutamatergic neurons, both producing anticonvulsant effects.The development of new approaches to modulate the complex KOR signalling cascade (e.g. biased agonism and gene therapy) opens up new exciting therapeutic opportunities with regard to seizure control and epilepsy. Potential adverse side effects of KOR agonists may be minimized through functional selectivity or locally restricted treatment. Preclinical data suggest a high potential of such approaches to control seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Zangrandi
- Institute of Virology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Schwarzer
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
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Agonist-promoted kappa opioid receptor (KOR) phosphorylation has behavioral endpoint-dependent and sex-specific effects. Neuropharmacology 2022; 202:108860. [PMID: 34736959 PMCID: PMC9122667 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We reported previously that the selective agonist U50,488H promoted phosphorylation of the mouse kappa opioid receptor (mKOR) in vitro at four residues in the C-terminal domain. In this study, we generated a mutant mouse line in which all the four residues were mutated to Ala (K4A) to examine the in vivo functional significance of agonist-induced KOR phosphorylation. U50,488H promoted KOR phosphorylation in brains of the wildtype (WT), but not K4A, male and female mice. Autoradiography of [3H] 69,593 binding to KOR in brain sections showed that WT and K4A mice had similar KOR distribution and expression levels in brain regions without sex differences. In K4A mice, U50,488H inhibited compound 48/80-induced scratching and attenuated novelty-induced hyperlocomotion to similar extents as in WT mice without sex differences. Interestingly, repeated pretreatment with U50,488H (80 mg/kg, s.c.) resulted in profound tolerance to the anti-scratch effects of U50,488H (5 mg/kg, s.c.) in WT mice of both sexes and female K4A mice, while in male K4A mice tolerance was attenuated. Moreover, U50,488H (2 mg/kg) induced conditioned place aversion (CPA) in WT mice of both sexes and male K4A mice, but not in female K4A mice. In contrast, U50,488H (5 mg/kg) caused CPA in male, but not female, mice, regardless of genotype. Thus, agonist-promoted KOR phosphorylation plays important roles in U50,488H-induced tolerance and CPA in a sex-dependent manner, without affecting acute U50,488H-induced anti-pruritic and hypo-locomotor effects. These results are the first to demonstrate sex differences in the effects of GPCR phosphorylation on the GPCR-mediated behaviors.
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41
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Ko MC, Husbands SM. Pleiotropic Effects of Kappa Opioid Receptor-Related Ligands in Non-human Primates. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 271:435-452. [PMID: 33274403 PMCID: PMC8175454 DOI: 10.1007/164_2020_419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The kappa opioid receptor (KOR)-related ligands have been demonstrated in preclinical studies for several therapeutic potentials. This chapter highlights (1) how non-human primates (NHP) studies facilitate the research and development of ligands targeting the KOR, (2) effects of the endogenous opioid peptide, dynorphin A-(1-17), and its analogs in NHP, and (3) pleiotropic effects and therapeutic applications of KOR-related ligands. In particular, synthetic ligands targeting the KOR have been extensively studied in NHP in three therapeutic areas, i.e., the treatment for itch, pain, and substance use disorders. As the KORs are widely expressed in the peripheral and central nervous systems, pleiotropic effects of KOR-related ligands, such as discriminative stimulus effects, neuroendocrine effects (e.g., prolactin release and stimulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), and diuresis, in NHP are discussed. Centrally acting KOR agonists are known to produce adverse effects including dysphoria, hallucination, and sedation. Nonetheless, with strategic advances in medicinal chemistry, three classes of KOR-related agonists, i.e., peripherally restricted KOR agonists, mixed KOR/mu opioid receptor partial agonists, and G protein-biased KOR agonists, warrant additional NHP studies to improve our understanding of their functional efficacy, selectivity, and tolerability. Pharmacological studies in NHP which carry high translational significance will facilitate future development of KOR-based medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Chuan Ko
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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42
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Paton KF, Robichon K, Templeton N, Denny L, Al Abadey A, Luo D, Prisinzano TE, La Flamme AC, Kivell BM. The Salvinorin Analogue, Ethoxymethyl Ether Salvinorin B, Promotes Remyelination in Preclinical Models of Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2021; 12:782190. [PMID: 34987466 PMCID: PMC8721439 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.782190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease associated with demyelination and neuroinflammation in the central nervous system. There is an urgent need to develop remyelinating therapies to better treat multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases. The kappa opioid receptor (KOR) has been identified as a potential target for the development of remyelinating therapies; however, prototypical KOR agonists, such as U50,488 have side effects, which limit clinical use. In the current study, we investigated a Salvinorin A analog, ethoxymethyl ether Salvinorin B (EOM SalB) in two preclinical models of demyelination in C57BL/6J mice. We showed that in cellular assays EOM SalB was G-protein biased, an effect often correlated with fewer KOR-mediated side effects. In the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model, we found that EOM SalB (0.1-0.3 mg/kg) effectively decreased disease severity in a KOR-dependent manner and led to a greater number of animals in recovery compared to U50,488 treatment. Furthermore, EOM SalB treatment decreased immune cell infiltration and increased myelin levels in the central nervous system. In the cuprizone-induced demyelination model, we showed that EOM SalB (0.3 mg/kg) administration led to an increase in the number of mature oligodendrocytes, the number of myelinated axons and the myelin thickness in the corpus callosum. Overall, EOM SalB was effective in two preclinical models of multiple sclerosis and demyelination, adding further evidence to show KOR agonists are a promising target for remyelinating therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly F. Paton
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Katharina Robichon
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Nikki Templeton
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Lisa Denny
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Afnan Al Abadey
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Dan Luo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Thomas E. Prisinzano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Anne C. La Flamme
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bronwyn M. Kivell
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Centre for Biodiscovery, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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43
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Zhang WW, Cao H, Li Y, Fu XJ, Zhang YQ. Peripheral ablation of type Ⅲ adenylyl cyclase induces hyperalgesia and eliminates KOR-mediated analgesia in mice. JCI Insight 2021; 7:153191. [PMID: 34914639 PMCID: PMC8855833 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.153191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ca2+/calmodulin-stimulated group Ⅰ adenylyl cyclase (AC) isoforms AC1 and AC8 have been involved in nociceptive processing and morphine responses. However, whether AC3, another member of group I ACs, is involved in nociceptive transmission and regulates opioid receptor signaling remain elusive. Here we report that conditional knockout of AC3 (AC3CKO) in L3 and L4 DRGs robustly facilitates the mouse nociceptive responses, decreases voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel currents and increases neuronal excitability. Also, AC3CKO eliminates the analgesic effect of κ opioid receptor (KOR) agonist and its inhibition on Kv channel by classical Gαi/o signaling or nonclassical direct interaction of KOR and AC3 proteins. Interestingly, significantly upregulated AC1 level and cAMP concentration are detected in AC3 deficient DRGs. Inhibition of AC1 completely reversed cAMP upregulation, neuronal excitability enhancement and nociceptive behavioral hypersensitivity in AC3CKO mice. Our findings suggest a crucial role of peripheral AC3 in nociceptive modulation and KOR opioid analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Wen Zhang
- Department of Translational Neurosciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Cao
- Department of Translational Neurosciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Li
- College of Intelligence and Information Engineering, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xian-Jun Fu
- Qingdao Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao, China
| | - Yu-Qiu Zhang
- Department of Translational Neurosciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Khom S, Nguyen JD, Vandewater SA, Grant Y, Roberto M, Taffe MA. Self-Administration of Entactogen Psychostimulants Dysregulates Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) and Kappa Opioid Receptor Signaling in the Central Nucleus of the Amygdala of Female Wistar Rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 15:780500. [PMID: 34975428 PMCID: PMC8716434 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.780500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Male rats escalate intravenous self-administration of entactogen psychostimulants, 3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone (methylone) and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) under extended access conditions, as with typical psychostimulants. Here, we investigated whether female rats escalate self-administration of methylone, 3,4-methylenedioxypentedrone (pentylone), and MDMA and then studied consequences of MDMA and pentylone self-administration on GABAA receptor and kappa opioid receptor (KOR) signaling in the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA), a brain area critically dysregulated by extended access self-administration of alcohol or cocaine. Adult female Wistar rats were trained to self-administer methylone, pentylone, MDMA (0.5 mg/kg/infusion), or saline-vehicle using a fixed-ratio 1 response contingency in 6-h sessions (long-access: LgA) followed by progressive ratio (PR) dose-response testing. The effects of pentylone-LgA, MDMA-LgA and saline on basal GABAergic transmission (miniature post-synaptic inhibitory currents, mIPSCs) and the modulatory role of KOR at CeA GABAergic synapses were determined in acute brain slices using whole-cell patch-clamp. Methylone-LgA and pentylone-LgA rats similarly escalated their drug intake (both obtained more infusions compared to MDMA-LgA rats), however, pentylone-LgA rats reached higher breakpoints in PR tests. At the cellular level, baseline CeA GABA transmission was markedly elevated in pentylone-LgA and MDMA-LgA rats compared to saline-vehicle. Specifically, pentylone-LgA was associated with increased CeA mIPSC frequency (GABA release) and amplitude (post-synaptic GABAA receptor function), while mIPSC amplitudes (but not frequency) was larger in MDMA-LgA rats compared to saline rats. In addition, pentylone-LgA and MDMA-LgA profoundly disrupted CeA KOR signaling such as both KOR agonism (1 mM U50488) and KOR antagonism (200 nM nor-binaltorphimine) decreased mIPSC frequency suggesting recruitment of non-canonical KOR signaling pathways. This study confirms escalated self-administration of entactogen psychostimulants under LgA conditions in female rats which is accompanied by increased CeA GABAergic inhibition and altered KOR signaling. Collectively, our study suggests that CeA GABA and KOR mechanisms play a critical role in entactogen self-administration like those observed with escalation of alcohol or cocaine self-administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Khom
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jacques D. Nguyen
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Sophia A. Vandewater
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Yanabel Grant
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Michael A. Taffe
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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Abraham AD, Casello SM, Schattauer SS, Wong BA, Mizuno GO, Mahe K, Tian L, Land BB, Chavkin C. Release of endogenous dynorphin opioids in the prefrontal cortex disrupts cognition. Neuropsychopharmacology 2021; 46:2330-2339. [PMID: 34545197 PMCID: PMC8580977 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01168-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Following repeated opioid use, some dependent individuals experience persistent cognitive deficits that contribute to relapse of drug-taking behaviors, and one component of this response may be mediated by the endogenous dynorphin/kappa opioid system in neocortex. In C57BL/6 male mice, we find that acute morphine withdrawal evokes dynorphin release in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) and disrupts cognitive function by activation of local kappa opioid receptors (KORs). Immunohistochemical analyses using a phospho-KOR antibody confirmed that both withdrawal-induced and optically evoked dynorphin release activated KOR in PFC. Using a genetically encoded sensor based on inert KOR (kLight1.2a), we revealed the in vivo dynamics of endogenous dynorphin release in the PFC. Local activation of KOR in PFC produced multi-phasic disruptions of memory processing in an operant-delayed alternation behavioral task, which manifest as reductions in response number and accuracy during early and late phases of an operant session. Local pretreatment in PFC with the selective KOR antagonist norbinaltorphimine (norBNI) blocked the disruptive effect of systemic KOR activation during both early and late phases of the session. The early, but not late phase disruption was blocked by viral excision of PFC KORs, suggesting an anatomically dissociable contribution of pre- and postsynaptic KORs. Naloxone-precipitated withdrawal in morphine-dependent mice or optical stimulation of pdynCre neurons using Channelrhodopsin-2 disrupted delayed alternation performance, and the dynorphin-induced effect was blocked by local norBNI. Our findings describe a mechanism for control of cortical function during opioid dependence and suggest that KOR antagonism could promote abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antony D. Abraham
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Sanne M. Casello
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Selena S. Schattauer
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Brenden A. Wong
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Grace O. Mizuno
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA USA
| | - Karan Mahe
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA USA
| | - Lin Tian
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA USA
| | - Benjamin B. Land
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Charles Chavkin
- Center for Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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Adult-Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Symptoms Seem Not to Influence the Outcome of an Enhanced Agonist Opioid Treatment: A 30-Year Follow-Up. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182010997. [PMID: 34682744 PMCID: PMC8535915 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The role of opioids and opioid medications in ADHD symptoms is still largely understudied. We tested the hypothesis that, in Heroin Use Disorder (HUD), when patients are treated with Agonist Opioid medications (AOT), treatment outcome is associated with the presence of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (A-ADHD) symptomatology. A retrospective cohort study of 130 HUD patients in Castelfranco Veneto, Italy, covering 30 years, was divided into two groups according to the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) score and compared them using demographic, clinical and pharmacological factors. Survival in treatment was studied by utilizing the available data for leaving treatment and relapsing into addictive behavior and for mortality during treatment as poor primary outcomes. Thirty-five HUD subjects (26.9%) were unlikely to have A-ADHD symptomatology, and 95 (73.1%) were likely to have it. Only current age and co-substance use at treatment entry differed significantly between groups. Censored patients were 29 (82.9%) for HUD patients and 70 (73.9%) for A-ADHD/HUD patients (Mantel-Cox test = 0.66 p = 0.415). There were no significant linear trends indicative of a poorer outcome with the presence of A-ADHD after adjustment for demographic, clinical and pharmacological factors. Conclusions: ADHD symptomatology does not seem to exert any influence on the retention in AOT of HUD patients.
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Oxytocin Is a Positive Allosteric Modulator of κ-Opioid Receptors but Not δ-Opioid Receptors in the G Protein Signaling Pathway. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102651. [PMID: 34685631 PMCID: PMC8534029 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) influences various physiological functions such as uterine contractions, maternal/social behavior, and analgesia. Opioid signaling pathways are involved in one of the analgesic mechanisms of OT. We previously showed that OT acts as a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) and enhances μ-opioid receptor (MOR) activity. In this study, which focused on other opioid receptor (OR) subtypes, we investigated whether OT influences opioid signaling pathways as a PAM for δ-OR (DOR) or κ-OR (KOR) using human embryonic kidney-293 cells expressing human DOR or KOR, respectively. The CellKeyTM results showed that OT enhanced impedance induced by endogenous/exogenous KOR agonists on KOR-expressing cells. OT did not affect DOR activity induced by endogenous/exogenous DOR agonists. OT potentiated the KOR agonist-induced Gi/o protein-mediated decrease in intracellular cAMP, but did not affect the increase in KOR internalization caused by the KOR agonists dynorphin A and (-)-U-50488 hydrochloride (U50488). OT did not bind to KOR orthosteric binding sites and did not affect the binding affinities of dynorphin A and U50488 for KOR. These results suggest that OT is a PAM of KOR and MOR and enhances G protein signaling without affecting β-arrestin signaling. Thus, OT has potential as a specific signaling-biased PAM of KOR.
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Zhao Y, Joshi AA, Aldrich JV, Murray TF. Quantification of kappa opioid receptor ligand potency, efficacy and desensitization using a real-time membrane potential assay. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112173. [PMID: 34536757 PMCID: PMC8516733 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112173] [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: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We explored the utility of the real-time FLIPR Membrane Potential (FMP) assay as a method to assess kappa opioid receptor (KOR)-induced hyperpolarization. The FMP Blue dye was used to measure fluorescent signals reflecting changes in membrane potential in KOR expressing CHO (CHO-KOR) cells. Treatment of CHO-KOR cells with kappa agonists U50,488 or dynorphin [Dyn (1-13)NH2] produced rapid and concentration-dependent decreases in FMP Blue fluorescence reflecting membrane hyperpolarization. Both the nonselective opioid antagonist naloxone and the κ-selective antagonists nor-binaltorphimine (nor-BNI) and zyklophin produced rightward shifts in the U50,488 concentration-response curves, consistent with competitive antagonism of the KOR mediated response. The decrease in fluorescent emission produced by U50,488 was blocked by overnight pertussis toxin pretreatment, indicating the requirement for PTX-sensitive G proteins in the KOR mediated response. We directly compared the potency of U50,488 and Dyn (1-13)NH2 in the FMP and [35S]GTPγS binding assays, and found that both were approximately 10 times more potent in the cellular fluorescence assay. The maximum responses of both U50,488 and Dyn (1-13)NH2 declined following repeated additions, reflecting receptor desensitization. We assessed the efficacy and potency of structurally distinct KOR small molecule and peptide ligands. The FMP assay reliably detected both partial agonists and stereoselectivity. Using KOR-selective peptides with varying efficacies, we found that the FMP assay allowed high throughput quantification of peptide efficacy. These data demonstrate that the FMP assay is a sensitive method for assessing κ-opioid receptor induced hyperpolarization, and represents a useful approach for quantification of potency, efficacy and desensitization of KOR ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanzi Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Anand A Joshi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA.
| | - Jane V Aldrich
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Thomas F Murray
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA
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Abstract
Nanobodies have emerged as useful tools to study G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) structure, dynamic, and subcellular localization. Initially, several nanobodies have been developed as chaperones to facilitate GPCR crystallization. To explore their potential as biosensors to monitor receptor activation and dynamics, we here described protocols to characterize nanobody's interaction with GPCRs and their application as probes for protein identification and visualization on the cellular level. We also introduced a chimeric approach to enable a kappa-opioid receptor derived nanobody to bind to other GPCRs, including orphan GPCRs whose endogenous ligand or intracellular transducers are unknown. This approach provides a reporter assay to identify tool molecules to study the function of orphan GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal El Daibani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Tao Che
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.
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50
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Zhou Y, Liang Y. Involvement of GRK2 in modulating nalfurafine-induced reduction of excessive alcohol drinking in mice. Neurosci Lett 2021; 760:136092. [PMID: 34197905 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Though it is well known that G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 [GRK2] is involved in regulation of mu opioid receptor [MOR] desensitization and morphine-related behaviors, the potential role of GRK2 in regulation of kappa opioid receptor [KOR] functions in vivo has not been established yet. A couple of recent studies have found that GRK2 activity desensitizes KOR functions via decreasing G protein-coupled signaling with sensitizing arrestin-coupled signaling. Nalfurafine, a G protein-biased KOR full agonist, produces an inhibitory effect on alcohol intake in mice, with fewer side effects (sedation, aversion, or anxiety/depression-like behaviors). Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis, we first identified that nuclear transcript level of grk2 [adrbk1] (but not other grks) was significantly up-regulated in mouse nucleus accumbens shell (NAcs) after chronic excessive alcohol drinking, suggesting alcohol specifically increased NAcs grk2 expression. We then tested whether selective GRK2/3 inhibitor CMPD101 could alter alcohol intake and found that CMPD101 alone had no effect on alcohol drinking. Therefore, we hypothesized that the grk2 increase in the NAcs could modulate the nalfurafine effect on alcohol intake via interacting with the G protein-mediated KOR signaling. Nalfurafine decreased alcohol drinking in a dose-related manner, and pretreatment with CMPD101 enhanced the reduction in alcohol intake induced by nalfurafine, indicating an involvement of GRK2/3 blockade in modulating G protein-biased KOR agonism of nalfurafine. Together, our study provides initial evidence relevant to the transcriptional change of grk2 gene in the NAc shell after excessive alcohol drinking. Pharmacological GRK2/3 blockade enhanced nalfurafine's efficacy, suggesting a GRK2/3-mediated mechanism, probably through the G protein-mediated KOR signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, USA.
| | - Yupu Liang
- Research Bioinformatics, CCTS, The Rockefeller University, NY, USA
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