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Carniglia L, Turati J, Saba J, López Couselo F, Romero AC, Caruso C, Durand D, Lasaga M. Melanocortin-receptor 4 activation modulates proliferation and differentiation of rat postnatal hippocampal neural precursor cells. Neuropharmacology 2024; 257:110058. [PMID: 38960135 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Postnatal hippocampal neurogenesis is essential for learning and memory. Hippocampal neural precursor cells (NPCs) can be induced to proliferate and differentiate into either glial cells or dentate granule cells. Notably, hippocampal neurogenesis decreases dramatically with age, partly due to a reduction in the NPC pool and a decrease in their proliferative activity. Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) improves learning, memory, neuronal survival and plasticity. Here, we used postnatally-isolated hippocampal NPCs from Wistar rat pups (male and female combined) to determine the role of the melanocortin analog [Nle4, D-Phe7]-α-MSH (NDP-MSH) in proliferation and fate acquisition of NPCs. Incubation of growth-factor deprived NPCs with 10 nM NDP-MSH for 6 days increased the proportion of Ki-67- and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-positive cells, compared to the control group, and these effects were blocked by the MC4R antagonist JKC-363. NDP-MSH also increased the proportion of glial fibrillar acidic protein (GFAP)/Ki-67, GFAP/sex-determining region Y-box2 (SOX2) and neuroepithelial stem cell protein (NESTIN)/Ki-67-double positive cells (type-1 and type-2 precursors). Finally, NDP-MSH induced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ protein expression, and co-incubation with the PPAR-γ inhibitor GW9662 prevented the effect of NDP-MSH on NPC proliferation and differentiation. Our results indicate that in vitro activation of MC4R in growth-factor-deprived postnatal hippocampal NPCs induces proliferation and promotes the relative expansion of the type-1 and type-2 NPC pool through a PPAR-γ-dependent mechanism. These results shed new light on the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of melanocortins in hippocampal plasticity and provide evidence linking the MC4R and PPAR-γ pathways in modulation of hippocampal NPC proliferation and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lila Carniglia
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Juan Turati
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julieta Saba
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Federico López Couselo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Clara Romero
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carla Caruso
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniela Durand
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Lasaga
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED, UBA-CONICET), Paraguay 2155, piso 10, CP 1121, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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2
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Strnadová V, Pačesová A, Charvát V, Šmotková Z, Železná B, Kuneš J, Maletínská L. Anorexigenic neuropeptides as anti-obesity and neuroprotective agents: exploring the neuroprotective effects of anorexigenic neuropeptides. Biosci Rep 2024; 44:BSR20231385. [PMID: 38577975 PMCID: PMC11043025 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20231385] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Since 1975, the incidence of obesity has increased to epidemic proportions, and the number of patients with obesity has quadrupled. Obesity is a major risk factor for developing other serious diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Recent epidemiologic studies have defined obesity as a risk factor for the development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other types of dementia. Despite all these serious comorbidities associated with obesity, there is still a lack of effective antiobesity treatment. Promising candidates for the treatment of obesity are anorexigenic neuropeptides, which are peptides produced by neurons in brain areas implicated in food intake regulation, such as the hypothalamus or the brainstem. These peptides efficiently reduce food intake and body weight. Moreover, because of the proven interconnection between obesity and the risk of developing AD, the potential neuroprotective effects of these two agents in animal models of neurodegeneration have been examined. The objective of this review was to explore anorexigenic neuropeptides produced and acting within the brain, emphasizing their potential not only for the treatment of obesity but also for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Strnadová
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Pačesová
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vilém Charvát
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Šmotková
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Blanka Železná
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Kuneš
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Maletínská
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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3
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Markov DD, Dolotov OV, Grivennikov IA. The Melanocortin System: A Promising Target for the Development of New Antidepressant Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076664. [PMID: 37047638 PMCID: PMC10094937 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders, causing significant human suffering and socioeconomic loss. Since conventional antidepressants are not sufficiently effective, there is an urgent need to develop new antidepressant medications. Despite marked advances in the neurobiology of depression, the etiology and pathophysiology of this disease remain poorly understood. Classical and newer hypotheses of depression suggest that an imbalance of brain monoamines, dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPAA) and immune system, or impaired hippocampal neurogenesis and neurotrophic factors pathways are cause of depression. It is assumed that conventional antidepressants improve these closely related disturbances. The purpose of this review was to discuss the possibility of affecting these disturbances by targeting the melanocortin system, which includes adrenocorticotropic hormone-activated receptors and their peptide ligands (melanocortins). The melanocortin system is involved in the regulation of various processes in the brain and periphery. Melanocortins, including peripherally administered non-corticotropic agonists, regulate HPAA activity, exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, stimulate the levels of neurotrophic factors, and enhance hippocampal neurogenesis and neurotransmission. Therefore, endogenous melanocortins and their analogs are able to complexly affect the functioning of those body’s systems that are closely related to depression and the effects of antidepressants, thereby demonstrating a promising antidepressant potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitrii D. Markov
- National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Kurchatov Sq. 2, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - Oleg V. Dolotov
- National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Kurchatov Sq. 2, 123182 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor A. Grivennikov
- National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Kurchatov Sq. 2, 123182 Moscow, Russia
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Zhang M, Zhang S, Yu W, Li X, Ma N, Cui Y. Simultaneous Determination of D-amino Acids in Rat Urine by Highperformance Liquid Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry Method: Application to Investigate the Clinical Value of D-amino Acids in the Early Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease. CURR PHARM ANAL 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1573412916999200717235048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
D-amino acids are closely related to the development and progression of
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and are expected as the novel biomarkers for AD diagnosis.
Objective:The aim was to investigate the potential clinical value of D-amino acids for Alzheimer's
disease.
Methods:A simple and sensitive HPLC/MS-MS method was developed for the simultaneous determination
of D-alanine, D-glutamine, D-proline and D-serine in rat urine. The samples were firstly pretreated
by methanol, then derivatized by 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzoxadiazole with Fudosteine as internal
standard, enantioseparated on Sumichiral OA-2500S column, using a mobile phase composed of acetonitrile-
methanol (50:50, v/v) containing 0.5% formic acid, and detected with 4000 Qtrap MS/MS in
electrospray-ionization source by negative ion mode.
Results:The established method was successfully applied to determine the D-amino acid levels in rat
urine from 20 Alzheimer's disease rats and 20 age-matched normal controls. The mean levels of Damino
acids in the urine of Alzheimer's disease rats were all significantly lower than those in normal
controls. Based on the contents of D-amino acids, the distinction model between Alzheimer's disease
rats and normal controls was established by the Bayesian discriminant analysis.
Conclusion:
The relationship between Alzheimer's disease and D-amino acids revealed that D-amino
acids would be potential biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- School of Functional Food and Wine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016,China
| | - Shuting Zhang
- School of Functional Food and Wine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016,China
| | - Weichao Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016,China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- PAREXEL International Unit, 286 Qingnian Street, Shenyang 110004,China
| | - Ning Ma
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 60 North Yellow River Street, Shenyang, 110034,China
| | - Yan Cui
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016,China
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Martins CA, Neves LT, de Oliveira MMBP, Bagatini PB, Barboza R, Mestriner RG, Xavier LL, Rasia-Filho AA. Neuroprotective effect of ACTH on collagenase-induced peri-intraventricular hemorrhage in newborn male rats. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17734. [PMID: 33082383 PMCID: PMC7576182 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74712-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Peri-intraventricular hemorrhage (PIVH) is a common and serious prematurity-related complication in neonates. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) has neuroprotective actions and is a candidate to ameliorate brain damage following PIVH. Here, we tested the efficacy of ACTH1-24 on a collagenase-induced lesion of the germinal matrix (GM) in newborn male rats. Animals received microinjection of the vehicle (PBS, 2 µl) or collagenase type VII (0.3 IU) into the GM/periventricular tissue on postnatal day (PN) 2. Twelve hours later pups received microinjection of either the agonist ACTH1-24 (0.048 mg/kg), or the antagonist SHU9119 (antagonist of MCR3/MCR4 receptors, 0.01 mg/kg), or their combination. Morphological outcomes included striatal injury extension, neuronal and glial cells counting, and immunohistochemical expression of brain lesion biomarkers ipsilateral and contralateral to the hemorrhagic site. Data were evaluated on PN 8. Collagenase induced PIVH and severe ipsilateral striatal lesion. ACTH1-24 dampened the deleterious effects of collagenase-induced hemorrhage in significantly reducing the extension of the damaged area, the striatal neuronal and glial losses, and the immunoreactive expression of the GFAP, S100β, and NG2-glia biomarkers in the affected periventricular area. SHU9119 blocked the glial density rescuing effect of ACTH1-24. ACTH1-24 could be further evaluated to determine its suitability for preclinical models of PVH in premature infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila A Martins
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, 90170-050, Brazil
- Departamento de Ciências Básicas da Saúde/Fisiologia, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, R. Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS, 90170-050, Brazil
| | - Laura Tartari Neves
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Escola de Ciências, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Marina M B P de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Escola de Ciências, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Pamela Brambilla Bagatini
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Escola de Ciências, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Barboza
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Escola de Ciências, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Régis Gemerasca Mestriner
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Escola de Ciências, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Léder Leal Xavier
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Escola de Ciências, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Alberto A Rasia-Filho
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, 90170-050, Brazil.
- Departamento de Ciências Básicas da Saúde/Fisiologia, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, R. Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, RS, 90170-050, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, 90170-050, Brazil.
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Flores-Dorantes MT, Díaz-López YE, Gutiérrez-Aguilar R. Environment and Gene Association With Obesity and Their Impact on Neurodegenerative and Neurodevelopmental Diseases. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:863. [PMID: 32982666 PMCID: PMC7483585 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a multifactorial disease in which environmental conditions and several genes play an important role in the development of this disease. Obesity is associated with neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer, Parkinson, and Huntington diseases) and with neurodevelopmental diseases (autism disorder, schizophrenia, and fragile X syndrome). Some of the environmental conditions that lead to obesity are physical activity, alcohol consumption, socioeconomic status, parent feeding behavior, and diet. Interestingly, some of these environmental conditions are shared with neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. Obesity impairs neurodevelopment abilities as memory and fine-motor skills. Moreover, maternal obesity affects the cognitive function and mental health of the offspring. The common biological mechanisms involved in obesity and neurodegenerative/neurodevelopmental diseases are insulin resistance, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative damage, among others, leading to impaired brain development or cell death. Obesogenic environmental conditions are not the only factors that influence neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. In fact, several genes implicated in the leptin-melanocortin pathway (LEP, LEPR, POMC, BDNF, MC4R, PCSK1, SIM1, BDNF, TrkB, etc.) are associated with obesity and neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. Moreover, in the last decades, the discovery of new genes associated with obesity (FTO, NRXN3, NPC1, NEGR1, MTCH2, GNPDA2, among others) and with neurodegenerative or neurodevelopmental diseases (APOE, CD38, SIRT1, TNFα, PAI-1, TREM2, SYT4, FMR1, TET3, among others) had opened new pathways to comprehend the common mechanisms involved in these diseases. In conclusion, the obesogenic environmental conditions, the genes, and the interaction gene-environment would lead to a better understanding of the etiology of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Teresa Flores-Dorantes
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Farmacogenómica, Centro de Investigación de Ciencia y Tecnología Aplicada de Tabasco, División Académica de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Villahermosa, Mexico
| | - Yael Efren Díaz-López
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Metabólicas: Obesidad y Diabetes, Hospital Infantil de México “Federico Gómez,”Mexico City, Mexico
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ruth Gutiérrez-Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Metabólicas: Obesidad y Diabetes, Hospital Infantil de México “Federico Gómez,”Mexico City, Mexico
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
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Xu D, Li F, Xue G, Hou K, Fang W, Li Y. Effect of Wnt signaling pathway on neurogenesis after cerebral ischemia and its therapeutic potential. Brain Res Bull 2020; 164:1-13. [PMID: 32763283 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenesis process in the chronic phase of ischemic stroke has become the focus of research on stroke treatment recently, mainly through the activation of related pathways to increase the differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in the brain sub-ventricular zone (SVZ) and subgranular zone (SGZ) of hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) areas into neurons, promoting neurogenesis. While there is still debate about the longevity of active adult neurogenesis in humans, the SVZ and SGZ have the capacity to upregulate neurogenesis in response to cerebral ischemia, which opens discussion about potential treatment strategies to harness this neuronal regenerative response. Wnt signaling pathway is one of the most important approaches potentially targeting on neurogenesis after cerebral ischemia, appropriate activation of which in NSCs may help to improve the sequelae of cerebral ischemia. Various therapeutic approaches are explored on preclinical stage to target endogenous neurogenesis induced by Wnt signaling after stroke onset. This article describes the composition of Wnt signaling pathway and the process of neurogenesis after cerebral ischemia, and emphatically introduces the recent studies on the mechanisms of this pathway for post-stroke neurogenesis and the therapeutic possibility of activating the pathway to improve neurogenesis after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Physiology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Fengyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Physiology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Gou Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Physiology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Kai Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Physiology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Weirong Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Physiology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Yunman Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Department of Physiology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Siebold L, Krueger AC, Abdala JA, Figueroa JD, Bartnik-Olson B, Holshouser B, Wilson CG, Ashwal S. Cosyntropin Attenuates Neuroinflammation in a Mouse Model of Traumatic Brain Injury. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:109. [PMID: 32670020 PMCID: PMC7332854 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of mortality/morbidity and is associated with chronic neuroinflammation. Melanocortin receptor agonists including adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) ameliorate inflammation and provide a novel therapeutic approach. We examined the effect of long-acting cosyntropin (CoSyn), a synthetic ACTH analog, on the early inflammatory response and functional outcome following experimental TBI. Methods: The controlled cortical impact model was used to induce TBI in mice. Mice were assigned to injury and treatment protocols resulting in four experimental groups including sham + saline, sham + CoSyn, TBI + saline, and TBI + CoSyn. Treatment was administered subcutaneously 3 h post-injury and daily injections were given for up to 7 days post-injury. The early inflammatory response was evaluated at 3 days post-injury through the evaluation of cytokine expression (IL1β and TNFα) and immune cell response. Quantification of immune cell response included cell counts of microglia/macrophages (Iba1+ cells) and neutrophils (MPO+ cells) in the cortex and hippocampus. Behavioral testing (n = 10–14 animals/group) included open field (OF) and novel object recognition (NOR) during the first week following injury and Morris water maze (MWM) at 10–15 days post-injury. Results: Immune cell quantification showed decreased accumulation of Iba1+ cells in the perilesional cortex and CA1 region of the hippocampus for CoSyn-treated TBI animals compared to saline-treated. Reduced numbers of MPO+ cells were also found in the perilesional cortex and hippocampus in CoSyn treated TBI mice compared to their saline-treated counterparts. Furthermore, CoSyn treatment reduced IL1β expression in the cortex of TBI mice. Behavioral testing showed a treatment effect of CoSyn for NOR with CoSyn increasing the discrimination ratio in both TBI and Sham groups, indicating increased memory performance. CoSyn also decreased latency to find platform during the early training period of the MWM when comparing CoSyn to saline-treated TBI mice suggesting moderate improvements in spatial memory following CoSyn treatment. Conclusion: Reduced microglia/macrophage accumulation and neutrophil infiltration in conjunction with moderate improvements in spatial learning in our CoSyn treated TBI mice suggests a beneficial anti-inflammatory effect of CoSyn following TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Siebold
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,The Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Amy C Krueger
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan A Abdala
- The Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Johnny D Figueroa
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Brenda Bartnik-Olson
- Department of Radiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Barbara Holshouser
- Department of Radiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Christopher G Wilson
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,The Lawrence D. Longo MD Center for Perinatal Biology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Stephen Ashwal
- Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, United States
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9
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Cheng J, Shen W, Jin L, Pan J, Zhou Y, Pan G, Xie Q, Hu Q, Wu S, Zhang H, Chen X. Treadmill exercise promotes neurogenesis and myelin repair via upregulating Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathways in the juvenile brain following focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion. Int J Mol Med 2020; 45:1447-1463. [PMID: 32323740 PMCID: PMC7138282 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical exercise has a neuroprotective effect and is an important treatment after ischemic stroke. Promoting neurogenesis and myelin repair in the penumbra is an important method for the treatment of ischemic stroke. However, the role and potential mechanism of exercise in neurogenesis and myelin repair still needs to be clarified. The goal of the present study was to ascertain the possible effect of treadmill training on the neuroprotective signaling pathway in juvenile rats after ischemic stroke. The model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in juvenile rats was established and then the rats were randomly divided into 9 groups. XAV939 (an inhibitor of the Wnt/β‑catenin pathway) was used to confirm the effects of the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway on exercise‑mediated neurogenesis and myelin repair. Neurological deficits were detected by modified neurological severity score, the injury of brain tissue and the morphology of neurons was detected by hematoxylin‑eosin staining and Nissl staining, and the infarct volume was detected by 2,3,5‑triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. The changes in myelin were observed by Luxol fast blue staining. The neuron ultrastructure was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Immunofluorescence and western blots analyzed the molecular mechanisms. The results showed that treadmill exercise improved neurogenesis, enhanced myelin repair, promoted neurological function recovery and reduced infarct volume. These were the results of the upregulation of Wnt3a and nucleus β‑catenin, brain‑derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and myelin basic protein (MBP). In addition, XAV939 inhibited treadmill exercise‑induced neurogenesis and myelin repair, which was consistent with the downregulation of Wnt3a, nucleus β‑catenin, BDNF and MBP expression, and the deterioration of neurological function. In summary, treadmill exercise promotes neurogenesis and myelin repair by upregulating the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway, to improve the neurological deficit caused by focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyan Cheng
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Weimin Shen
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Lingqin Jin
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Juanjuan Pan
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Guoyuan Pan
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Qingfeng Xie
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Quan Hu
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Shamin Wu
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Nursing Department, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, P.R. China
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Szatmari B, Balicza P, Nemeth G, Molnar MJ. The Panomics Approach in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:1712-1720. [PMID: 28685677 DOI: 10.2174/0929867324666170705120038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The molecular genetic technologies revolutionized the diagnostics of many disorders. Thanks to the new molecular techniques and the rapid improvement of the information technologies the number of mendelien inherited disorders has increased rapidly in the last five years. The omics era brought radical changes in the understanding of complex disorders and the underlying pathomechanisms. However, in most complex disorders the genome wide association studies could not clarify the genetic background even for disorders where a very strong heritability had been observed. OBJECTIVE In this paper the changing concept of the neurodegenerative disorders is discussed. The traditional classification of these disorders was purely based on clinical symptoms and morphological signs in the last century. Identifying the signature lesions of various neurodegenerative disorders may reveal a common pathological pathway in these disorders. New neuroimaging methods provided additional tools to assess pathological pathways in vivo already in the early stages of the diseases. Visualizing in vivo amyloid deposits and neuroinflammation improved our understanding of their role in various neurodegenerative disorders. Genetics may be the most precise way to identify the background of these disorders. However, there is only limited number of cases where true association can be proved between the disorder and the genetic mutations. Most of the neurodegenerative disorders seem to be multifactorial and cannot be traced back to one single cause. CONCLUSION In conclusion, shifting from a classification based on symptomatology only to a modern multidisciplinary approach, based on the constantly evolving panomics findings, would improve our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and could be the basis of novel therapeutic research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Balicza
- Institute of Genomic Medicine and Rare Disorders, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gyorgy Nemeth
- Medical Division, Gedeon Richter Plc., Budapest, Hungary
| | - Maria Judit Molnar
- Institute of Genomic Medicine and Rare Disorders, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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Wang W, Guo DY, Lin YJ, Tao YX. Melanocortin Regulation of Inflammation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:683. [PMID: 31649620 PMCID: PMC6794349 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and α-, β-, and γ-melanocyte-stimulating hormones (α-, β-, γ-MSH), collectively known as melanocortins, together with their receptors (melanocortin receptors), are components of an ancient modulatory system. The clinical use of ACTH in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis started in 1949, originally thought that the anti-inflammatory action was through hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis and glucocorticoid-dependent. Subsequent decades have witnessed extensive attempts in unraveling the physiology and pharmacology of the melanocortin system. It is now known that ACTH, together with α-, β-, and γ-MSHs, also possess glucocorticoid-independent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects by activating the melanocortin receptors expressed in the brain or peripheral immune cells. This review will briefly introduce the melanocortin system and highlight the action of melanocortins in the regulation of immune functions from in vitro, in vivo, preclinical, and clinical studies. The potential therapeutic use of melanocortins are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiamen Huli Guoyu Clinic, Co., Ltd., Xiamen, China
| | - Dong-Yu Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiamen Huli Guoyu Clinic, Co., Ltd., Xiamen, China
- *Correspondence: Dong-Yu Guo
| | - Yue-Jun Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiamen Huli Guoyu Clinic, Co., Ltd., Xiamen, China
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
- Ya-Xiong Tao
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12
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Saba J, Carniglia L, Ramírez D, Turati J, Imsen M, Durand D, Lasaga M, Caruso C. Melanocortin 4 receptor activation protects striatal neurons and glial cells from 3-nitropropionic acid toxicity. Mol Cell Neurosci 2018; 94:41-51. [PMID: 30529228 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
α-Melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is a melanocortin which exerts potent anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4R) are abundantly expressed in the brain and we previously demonstrated that [Nle(4), D-Phe(7)]melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NDP-MSH), an α-MSH analogue, increased expression of brain derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ). We hypothesized that melanocortins could affect striatal cell survival through BDNF and PPAR-γ. First, we determined the expression of these factors in the striatum. Acute intraperitoneal administration (0.5 mg/kg) of α-MSH increased the levels of BDNF mRNA in rat striatum but not in rat cerebral cortex. Also, protein expression of PPAR-γ and MC4R was increased by acute treatment with α-MSH in striatum but not in cortex. No changes were observed by 48 h treatment. Next, we evaluated melanocortins effect on neuron and glial survival. 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP), which is known to induce striatal degeneration, was used to induce cell death in the rat striatal cell line ST14A expressing mutant human huntingtin (Q120) or in ST14A cells expressing normal human huntingtin (Q15), in primary cultured astrocytes, and in BV2 cells. NDP-MSH protected Q15 cells, astrocytes and BV2 cells from death by 3-NP whereas it did not fully protect Q120 cells. Protection of Q15 cells and astrocytes was blocked by a MC4R specific inhibitor (JKC-363) and a PPAR-γ antagonist (GW9662). The BDNF receptor antagonist (ANA-12) abolished NDP-MSH protective effect in astrocytes but not in Q15 cells. We demonstrate for the first time that melanocortins, acting through PPAR-γ and BDNF, protect neurons and glial cells from 3-NP toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Saba
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lila Carniglia
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Delia Ramírez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Turati
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Imsen
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniela Durand
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Lasaga
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carla Caruso
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED) UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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13
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Feng G, Feng J, Zhang S, Tong Y, Zhang Q, Yang X, Zhang H. Altered levels of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma of patients with traumatic brain injury. Brain Res 2018; 1696:22-30. [PMID: 29859146 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is closely associated with marked inflammation. Although alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH) exerts powerful anti-inflammatory effects, changes in endogenous α-MSH levels following TBI remain poorly understood. We investigated the changes of α-MSH levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma of post-TBI patients and the association of these changes with the severity of TBI and inflammation. TBI severity was assessed by the GCS coma scale from which, patients were separated into three groups. Clinical data were collected on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 including levels of α-MSH, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and intracranial pressure (ICP). α-MSH levels in CSF steadily increased for one week (peak at day 5) but plasma α-MSH decreased and remained low. These changes were more substantial in the Severe Group of TBI with lower GCS. TNF-α levels were similarly increased in both CSF and plasma (peak at day 3). In the early phase of TBI elevated TNF-α and ICP dominated, and CSF α-MSH displayed a slow and insufficient increase. In later phases of TBI, TNF-α and ICP levels were alleviated concordantly with sustained increases in central α-MSH, wherein an anti-inflammatory environment might predominate. The relationship between plasma α-MSH and TNF-α showed significant negative correlation, and the relationship between CSF α-MSH and TNF-α showed significant positive correlation with a two-day lag. In conclusion, plasma α-MSH levels decreased, but CSF levels increased slowly following TBI. These changes were more substantial in severe patients with a lower GCS. Increases in central α-MSH paralleled alleviation of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilong Feng
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
| | - Jie Feng
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Shaojun Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuping Tong
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Emergency, Zhengzhou Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoming Yang
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Huaping Zhang
- Molecular Biology Laboratories, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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14
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Zhu SZ, Szeto V, Bao MH, Sun HS, Feng ZP. Pharmacological approaches promoting stem cell-based therapy following ischemic stroke insults. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2018; 39:695-712. [PMID: 29671416 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2018.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke can lead to long-term neurological deficits. Adult neurogenesis, the continuous generation of newborn neurons in distinct regions of the brain throughout life, has been considered as one of the appoaches to restore the neurological function following ischemic stroke. However, ischemia-induced spontaneous neurogenesis is not suffcient, thus cell-based therapy, including infusing exogenous stem cells or stimulating endogenous stem cells to help repair of injured brain, has been studied in numerous animal experiments and some pilot clinical trials. While the effects of cell-based therapy on neurological function during recovery remains unproven in randomized controlled trials, pharmacological agents have been administrated to assist the cell-based therapy. In this review, we summarized the limitations of ischemia-induced neurogenesis and stem-cell transplantation, as well as the potential proneuroregenerative effects of drugs that may enhance efficacy of cell-based therapies. Specifically, we discussed drugs that enhance proliferation, migration, differentiation, survival and function connectivity of newborn neurons, which may restore neurobehavioral function and improve outcomes in stroke patients.
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15
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Wei ZZ, Zhang JY, Taylor TM, Gu X, Zhao Y, Wei L. Neuroprotective and regenerative roles of intranasal Wnt-3a administration after focal ischemic stroke in mice. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2018; 38:404-421. [PMID: 28430000 PMCID: PMC5851145 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x17702669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling is a conserved pathway involved in expansion of neural progenitors and lineage specification during development. However, the role of Wnt signaling in the post-stroke brain has not been well-elucidated. We hypothesized that Wnt-3a would play an important role for neurogenesis and brain repair. Adult male mice were subjected to a focal ischemic stroke targeting the sensorimotor cortex. Mice that received Wnt-3a (2 µg/kg/day, 1 h after stroke and once a day for the next 2 days, intranasal delivery) had reduced infarct volume compared to stroke controls. Wnt-3a intranasal treatment of seven days upregulated the expression of brain-derived growth factor (BDNF), increased the proliferation and migration of neuroblasts from the subventricular zone (SVZ), resulting in increased numbers of newly formed neurons and endothelial cells in the peri-infarct zone. Both the molecular and cellular effects of Wnt-3a were blocked by the Wnt specific inhibitors XAV-939 or Dkk-1. In functional assays, Wnt-3a treatment enhanced the local cerebral blood flow (LCBF) in the peri-infarct, as well as improved sensorimotor functions in a battery of behavioral tests. Together, our data demonstrates that the Wnt-3a signaling can act as a dual neuroprotective and regenerative factor for the treatment of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zachory Wei
- Laboratories of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Experimental Research Center and Neurological Disease Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James Ya Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tammi M Taylor
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Xiaohuan Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yingying Zhao
- Laboratories of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Experimental Research Center and Neurological Disease Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Wei
- Laboratories of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Experimental Research Center and Neurological Disease Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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16
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Melanocortin receptor subtypes are expressed on cells in the oligodendroglial lineage and signal ACTH protection. J Neurosci Res 2017; 96:427-435. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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17
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Vaglini F, Pardini C, Di Desidero T, Orlandi P, Pasqualetti F, Ottani A, Pacini S, Giuliani D, Guarini S, Bocci G. Melanocortin Receptor-4 and Glioblastoma Cells: Effects of the Selective Antagonist ML00253764 Alone and in Combination with Temozolomide In Vitro and In Vivo. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:4984-4997. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0702-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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18
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Li Z, Xing Y, Guo X, Cui Y. Development of an UPLC–MS/MS method for simultaneous quantitation of 11 d -amino acids in different regions of rat brain: Application to a study on the associations of d -amino acid concentration changes and Alzheimer’s disease. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2017; 1058:40-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2017.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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19
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Melanocortin Receptor-4 Gene Polymorphisms in Glioblastoma Patients Treated with Concomitant Radio-Chemotherapy. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:1396-1404. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0414-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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20
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Patel SS, Tomar S, Sharma D, Mahindroo N, Udayabanu M. Targeting sonic hedgehog signaling in neurological disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 74:76-97. [PMID: 28088536 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling influences neurogenesis and neural patterning during the development of central nervous system. Dysregulation of Shh signaling in brain leads to neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorder, depression, dementia, stroke, Parkinson's diseases, Huntington's disease, locomotor deficit, epilepsy, demyelinating disease, neuropathies as well as brain tumors. The synthesis, processing and transport of Shh ligand as well as the localization of its receptors and signal transduction in the central nervous system has been carefully reviewed. Further, we summarize the regulation of small molecule modulators of Shh pathway with potential in neurological disorders. In conclusion, further studies are warranted to demonstrate the potential of positive and negative regulators of the Shh pathway in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sita Sharan Patel
- Department of Pharmacy, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat 173234, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Sunil Tomar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Post Box 9, Solan 173212, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Diksha Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Post Box 9, Solan 173212, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Neeraj Mahindroo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shoolini University, Post Box 9, Solan 173212, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Malairaman Udayabanu
- Department of Pharmacy, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat 173234, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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21
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Navarro M. The Role of the Melanocortin System in Drug and Alcohol Abuse. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 136:121-150. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2017.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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22
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Multiple beneficial effects of melanocortin MC 4 receptor agonists in experimental neurodegenerative disorders: Therapeutic perspectives. Prog Neurobiol 2016; 148:40-56. [PMID: 27916623 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin peptides induce neuroprotection in acute and chronic experimental neurodegenerative conditions. Melanocortins likewise counteract systemic responses to brain injuries. Furthermore, they promote neurogenesis by activating critical signaling pathways. Melanocortin-induced long-lasting improvement in synaptic activity and neurological performance, including learning and memory, sensory-motor orientation and coordinated limb use, has been consistently observed in experimental models of acute and chronic neurodegeneration. Evidence indicates that the neuroprotective and neurogenic effects of melanocortins, as well as the protection against systemic responses to a brain injury, are mediated by brain melanocortin 4 (MC4) receptors, through an involvement of the vagus nerve. Here we discuss the targets and mechanisms underlying the multiple beneficial effects recently observed in animal models of neurodegeneration. We comment on the potential clinical usefulness of melanocortin MC4 receptor agonists as neuroprotective and neuroregenerative agents in ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and Alzheimer's disease.
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23
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Xu M, Alwahsh SM, Ramadori G, Kollmar O, Slotta JE. Upregulation of hepatic melanocortin 4 receptor during rat liver regeneration. J Surg Res 2016; 203:222-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2013.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 11/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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24
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Massey AT, Lerner DK, Holmes GL, Scott RC, Hernan AE. ACTH Prevents Deficits in Fear Extinction Associated with Early Life Seizures. Front Neurol 2016; 7:65. [PMID: 27199888 PMCID: PMC4852169 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2016.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Early life seizures (ELS) are often associated with cognitive and psychiatric comorbidities that are detrimental to quality of life. In a rat model of ELS, we explored long-term cognitive outcomes in adult rats. Using ACTH, an endogeneous HPA-axis hormone given to children with severe epilepsy, we sought to prevent cognitive deficits. Through comparisons with dexamethasone, we sought to dissociate the corticosteroid effects of ACTH from other potential mechanisms of action. Results Although rats with a history of ELS were able to acquire a conditioned fear learning paradigm and controls, these rats had significant deficits in their ability to extinguish fearful memories. ACTH treatment did not alter any seizure parameters but nevertheless was able to significantly improve this fear extinction, while dexamethasone treatment during the same period did not. This ACTH effect was specific for fear extinction deficits and not for spatial learning deficits in a water maze. Additionally, ACTH did not alter seizure latency or duration suggesting that cognitive and seizure outcomes may be dissociable. Expression levels of melanocortin receptors, which bind ACTH, were found to be significantly lower in animals that had experienced ELS than in control animals, potentially implicating central melanocortin receptor dysregulation in the effects of ELS, and suggesting a mechanism of action for ACTH. Interpretation Taken together, these data suggest that early treatment with ACTH can have significant long-term consequences for cognition in animals with a history of ELS independently of seizure cessation and may act in part through a CNS melanocortin receptor pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T Massey
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - David K Lerner
- College of Arts and Sciences, Dartmouth College , Hanover, NH , USA
| | - Gregory L Holmes
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine , Burlington, VT , USA
| | - Rod C Scott
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA; Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Amanda E Hernan
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont College of Medicine , Burlington, VT , USA
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Anastasiadou S, Knöll B. The multiple sclerosis drug fingolimod (FTY720) stimulates neuronal gene expression, axonal growth and regeneration. Exp Neurol 2016; 279:243-260. [PMID: 26980486 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2016.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fingolimod (FTY720) is a new generation oral treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS). So far, FTY720 was mainly considered to target trafficking of immune cells but not brain cells such as neurons. Herein, we analyzed FTY720's potential to directly alter neuronal function. In CNS neurons, we identified a FTY720 governed gene expression response. FTY720 upregulated immediate early genes (IEGs) encoding for neuronal activity associated transcription factors such as c-Fos, FosB, Egr1 and Egr2 and induced actin cytoskeleton associated genes (actin isoforms, tropomyosin, calponin). Stimulation of primary neurons with FTY720 enhanced neurite growth and altered growth cone morphology. In accordance, FTY720 enhanced axon regeneration in mice upon facial nerve axotomy. We identified components of a FTY720 engaged signaling cascade including S1P receptors, G12/13G-proteins, RhoA-GTPases and the transcription factors SRF/MRTF. In summary, we uncovered a broader cellular and therapeutic operation mode of FTY720, suggesting beneficial FTY720 effects also on CNS neurons during MS therapy and for treatment of other neurodegenerative diseases requiring neuroprotective and neurorestorative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Anastasiadou
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Bernd Knöll
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany.
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26
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Yu H, Liu P, Tang H, Jing J, Lv X, Chen L, Jiang L, Xu J, Li J. Oleuropein, a natural extract from plants, offers neuroprotection in focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 775:113-9. [PMID: 26872990 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Oleuropein (OLE) was found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. The latest study has shown that it can resist myocardial injury that follows an acute myocardial infarction and can rescue impaired spinal nerve cells. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of OLE on cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury in a middle cerebral artery occlusion model in mice.OLE (100 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally 1h before ischemia. We found that the volume of cerebral infarction was significantly reduced after 75 min of ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion compared with the I/R (ischemia/reperfusion) group. This protective function occurred in a dose-dependent manner. We also found that treatment with OLE could reduce the cerebral infarct volume. The neuroprotective effect was prolonged from 2 h to 4 h when we injected OLE intracerebroventricularly after reperfusion. We then found that OLE can decrease the level of cleavedcaspase-3, an important marker of apoptosis, in the ischemic mouse brain. Finally, we explored the role of OLE in providing anti-apoptotic effects through the increased expression of Bcl-2 and the decreased expression of Bax, which are important markers in apoptosis. As shown above, the function and safety of OLE in cardiovascular disease may indicate that it is a potential therapeutic for stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Yu
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Peipei Liu
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Hui Tang
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Jian Jing
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Xiang Lv
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Lanlan Chen
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China.
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Subei People's Hospital of Jiangsu Province, Yangzhou 225001, China.
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The Role of Hypothalamic Neuropeptides in Neurogenesis and Neuritogenesis. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:3276383. [PMID: 26881105 PMCID: PMC4737468 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3276383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus is a source of neural progenitor cells which give rise to different populations of specialized and differentiated cells during brain development. Newly formed neurons in the hypothalamus can synthesize and release various neuropeptides. Although term neuropeptide recently undergoes redefinition, small-size hypothalamic neuropeptides remain major signaling molecules mediating short- and long-term effects on brain development. They represent important factors in neurite growth and formation of neural circuits. There is evidence suggesting that the newly generated hypothalamic neurons may be involved in regulation of metabolism, energy balance, body weight, and social behavior as well. Here we review recent data on the role of hypothalamic neuropeptides in adult neurogenesis and neuritogenesis with special emphasis on the development of food intake and social behavior related brain circuits.
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Xing Y, Li X, Guo X, Cui Y. Simultaneous determination of 18 d-amino acids in rat plasma by an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method: application to explore the potential relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and d-amino acid level alterations. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 408:141-50. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-015-9086-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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NDP-α-MSH induces intense neurogenesis and cognitive recovery in Alzheimer transgenic mice through activation of melanocortin MC4 receptors. Mol Cell Neurosci 2015; 67:13-21. [PMID: 26003413 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2015.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanocortins exert neuroprotection in a variety of experimental neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Further, in previous research we showed that these endogenous peptides stimulate neurogenesis in an acute neurodegenerative disorder such as ischemic stroke. In the present research, we investigated the potential neurogenic effect of melanocortins in AD using APPSwe transgenic mice (Tg2576). To this purpose, 24week-old animals were prepared for 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling of proliferating cells on days 1-11 of the study. Treatment of Tg2576 mice with nanomolar doses of the melanocortin analog [Nle(4),D-Phe(7)]α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NDP-α-MSH), administered once daily from day 1 to 50, improved brain histology and cognitive functions relative to saline-treated Tg2576 animals. No signs of toxicity were observed. Immunohistochemical examination of the hippocampus at the end of the study (day 50) showed that NDP-α-MSH-treated Tg2576 mice had a greater number of BrdU immunoreactive cells colocalized with NeuN (an indicator of mature neurons) and Zif268 (an indicator of functionally integrated neurons) in the dentate gyrus, relative to saline-treated Tg2576 animals; no newly formed astrocytes were found. Animal pretreatment with the selective melanocortin MC4 receptor antagonist HS024 before each NDP-α-MSH administration prevented all the beneficial effects of the peptide. The present data indicate that MC4 receptor stimulation by a melanocortin prevents cognitive decline in experimental AD, this effect being associated not only with neuroprotection but also with an intense neurogenesis. MC4 receptor agonists could be innovative and safe candidates to counteract AD progression in humans.
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Zheng Y, McPherson K, Reid P, Smith PF. The anti-inflammatory selective melanocortin receptor subtype 4 agonist, RO27-3225, fails to prevent acoustic trauma-induced tinnitus in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 761:206-10. [PMID: 25977231 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In preliminary studies we have observed a massive microglial activation in the cochlear nucleus following acoustic trauma-induced tinnitus in rats, which suggests that inflammatory responses within the central auditory system may be involved in the development and maintenance of tinnitus. Recently, the anti-inflammatory properties of melanocortins (MCs), have gained increasing interest in pharmacology due to their promising therapeutic potential in the treatment of inflammatory-mediated diseases. Among the five subtypes of the MC receptor, MC3 and MC4 receptors are the predominant brain receptors and are thought to play an important role in brain inflammation and neuroprotection. Importantly, MC4 receptors have been found in the mouse and rat central auditory systems. In this study we investigated whether the MC4 receptor agonist, RO27-3225, injected s.c at a dose of 90 or 180µg/kg, 30min before acoustic trauma and then every 12h for 10 days, could prevent the development of acoustic trauma-induced tinnitus in rats, using a conditioned behavioural suppression model. Although evidence of tinnitus developed in the exposed-vehicle group compared to the sham-vehicle group (P≤0.03), in response to a 32kHz tone, there were no significant drug effects from treatment with RO27-3225, indicating that it did not confer any protection against the development of tinnitus in this animal model. This result suggests that the anti-inflammatory effects of MC4 receptor agonists may not be sufficient to prevent tinnitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Zheng
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, and the Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
| | - Kate McPherson
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, and the Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Peter Reid
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, and the Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Paul F Smith
- Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical Sciences, and the Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Machado I, Gonzalez PV, Vilcaes A, Carniglia L, Schiöth HB, Lasaga M, Scimonelli TN. Interleukin-1β-induced memory reconsolidation impairment is mediated by a reduction in glutamate release and zif268 expression and α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone prevented these effects. Brain Behav Immun 2015; 46:137-46. [PMID: 25637483 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2015.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Revised: 12/26/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system is an important modulator of learning, memory and neural plasticity. Interleukin 1β (IL-1β), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, significantly affects several cognitive processes. Previous studies by our group have demonstrated that intrahippocampal administration of IL-1β impairs reconsolidation of contextual fear memory. This effect was reversed by the melanocortin alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). The mechanisms underlying the effect of IL-1β on memory reconsolidation have not yet been established. Therefore, we examined the effect of IL-1β on glutamate release, ERK phosphorylation and the activation of the transcription factor zinc finger- 268 (zif268) during reconsolidation. Our results demonstrated that IL-1β induced a significant decrease of glutamate release after reactivation of the fear memory and this effect was related to calcium concentration in hippocampal synaptosomes. IL-1β also reduced ERK phosphorylation and zif268 expression in the hippocampus. Central administration of α-MSH prevented the decrease in glutamate release, ERK phosphorylation and zif268 expression induced by IL-1β. Our results establish possible mechanisms involved in the detrimental effect of IL-1β on memory reconsolidation and also indicate that α-MSH may exert a beneficial modulatory role in preventing IL-1β effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Machado
- IFEC-CONICET, Depto. Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Patricia V Gonzalez
- IFEC-CONICET, Depto. Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Alejandro Vilcaes
- CIQUIBIC-CONICET, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Lila Carniglia
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas INBIOMED UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Helgi B Schiöth
- Department of Neuroscience, Functional Pharmacology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mercedes Lasaga
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas INBIOMED UBA-CONICET, Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Teresa N Scimonelli
- IFEC-CONICET, Depto. Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina.
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Kaneva MK, Kerrigan MJ, Grieco P, Curley GP, Locke IC, Getting SJ. Melanocortin peptides protect chondrocytes from mechanically induced cartilage injury. Biochem Pharmacol 2014; 92:336-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2014.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Giuliani D, Galantucci M, Neri L, Canalini F, Calevro A, Bitto A, Ottani A, Vandini E, Sena P, Sandrini M, Squadrito F, Zaffe D, Guarini S. Melanocortins protect against brain damage and counteract cognitive decline in a transgenic mouse model of moderate Alzheimer׳s disease. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 740:144-50. [PMID: 25034807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.06.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported that melanocortins induce neuroprotection in experimental acute and chronic neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer׳s disease (AD) of mild severity. Here we investigated whether melanocortins afford neuroprotection and counteract cognitive decline in AD with a medium level of severity by using 24 week-old (at the start of the study) APPSwe transgenic mice (Tg2576). Saline-treated (days 1-50) control Tg2576 mice showed an impairment in spatial learning and memory, associated (at day 50, end of the study) with hippocampus at low levels of the synaptic activity-dependent gene Zif268, relevant brain changes such as cerebral cortex/hippocampus increased level of β-amyloid (Aβ) deposit, and neuronal loss, in comparison with wild-type animals. Treatment of Tg2576 mice (once daily at days 1-50) with a nanomolar dose of the melanocortin analog [Nle4,D-Phe7]α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NDP-α-MSH) reduced cerebral cortex/hippocampus level of Aβ deposit, decreased neuronal loss, increased hippocampus Zif268 expression and improved cognitive functions, relative to saline-treated Tg2576 mice. Pharmacological blockade of melanocortin MC4 receptors with the MC4 receptor antagonist HS024 prevented all favorable effects of NDP-α-MSH. Our data indicate that MC4 receptor-stimulating melanocortins are able to counteract cognitive decline in experimental AD of medium severity through induction of neuroprotection and improvement of synaptic transmission. After further studies, these agents could gain a role as disease modifying therapeutics for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Maria Galantucci
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Laura Neri
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Canalini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anita Calevro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ottani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Vandini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Paola Sena
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Human Morphology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sandrini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Davide Zaffe
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Human Morphology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Salvatore Guarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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α-Melanocyte stimulating hormone prevents GABAergic neuronal loss and improves cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease. J Neurosci 2014; 34:6736-45. [PMID: 24828629 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5075-13.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In Alzheimer's disease (AD), appropriate excitatory-inhibitory balance required for memory formation is impaired. Our objective was to elucidate deficits in the inhibitory GABAergic system in the TgCRND8 mouse model of AD to establish a link between GABAergic dysfunction and cognitive function. We sought to determine whether the neuroprotective peptide α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) attenuates GABAergic loss and thus improves cognition. TgCRND8 mice with established β-amyloid peptide pathology and nontransgenic littermates were treated with either α-MSH or vehicle via daily intraperitoneal injections for 28 d. TgCRND8 mice exhibited spatial memory deficits and altered anxiety that were rescued after α-MSH treatment. The expression of GABAergic marker glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD67) and the number of GABAergic GAD67+ interneurons expressing neuropeptide Y and somatostatin are reduced in the hippocampus in vehicle-treated TgCRND8 mice. In the septohippocampal pathway, GABAergic deficits are observed before cholinergic deficits, suggesting that GABAergic loss may underlie behavior deficits in vehicle-treated TgCRND8 mice. α-MSH preserves GAD67 expression and prevents loss of the somatostatin-expressing subtype of GABAergic GAD67+ inhibitory interneurons. Without decreasing β-amyloid peptide load in the brain, α-MSH improves spatial memory in TgCRND8 mice and prevents alterations in anxiety. α-MSH modulated the excitatory-inhibitory balance in the brain by restoring GABAergic inhibition and, as a result, improved cognition in TgCRND8 mice.
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35
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Benjamins JA, Nedelkoska L, Lisak RP. Adrenocorticotropin hormone 1-39 promotes proliferation and differentiation of oligodendroglial progenitor cells and protects from excitotoxic and inflammation-related damage. J Neurosci Res 2014; 92:1243-51. [PMID: 24916309 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Revised: 04/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Oligodendroglia (OL) are highly susceptible to damage and, like neurons, are terminally differentiated. It is important to protect OL precursors (OPC) because they are reservoirs of differentiating cells capable of myelination following perinatal insult and remyelination in white matter diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients with relapsing-remitting MS are commonly treated with high-dose corticosteroids (CS) when experiencing an exacerbation. Adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), a primary component of another approved MS exacerbation treatment, is a melanocortin peptide that stimulates production of CS by the adrenals. Melanocortin receptors are also found in the central nervous system (CNS) and on immune cells. ACTH is produced within the CNS and may have CS-independent effects on glia. We found that ACTH 1-39 stimulated proliferation of OPC, and to a lesser extent astroglia (AS) and microglia (MG), in rat glial cultures. ACTH accelerated differentiation of PDGFRα(+) OPC to a later stage marked by galactolipid expression and caused greater expansion of OL myelin-like sheets compared with untreated cells. Protective effects of ACTH on OPC were assessed by treating cultures with selected toxic agents, with or without ACTH. At 200 nM, ACTH protected OPC from death induced by staurosporine, glutamate, NMDA, AMPA, kainate, quinolinic acid, H2 O2 , and slow NO release, but not against kynurenic acid or rapid NO release. These agents and ACTH were not toxic to AS or MG. Our findings indicate that ACTH 1-39 provides benefits by increasing the number of OPC, accelerating their development into mature OL, and reducing OPC death from toxic insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce A Benjamins
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan; Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine Detroit, Michigan
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Caruso V, Lagerström MC, Olszewski PK, Fredriksson R, Schiöth HB. Synaptic changes induced by melanocortin signalling. Nat Rev Neurosci 2014; 15:98-110. [PMID: 24588018 DOI: 10.1038/nrn3657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin system has a well-established role in the regulation of energy homeostasis, but there is growing evidence of its involvement in memory, nociception, mood disorders and addiction. In this Review, we focus on the role of the melanocortin 4 receptor and provide an integrative view of the molecular mechanisms that lead to melanocortin-induced changes in synaptic plasticity within these diverse physiological systems. We also highlight the importance of melanocortin peptides and receptors in chronic pain syndromes, memory impairments, depression and drug abuse, and the possibility of targeting them for therapeutic purposes.
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Caruso C, Carniglia L, Durand D, Scimonelli TN, Lasaga M. Astrocytes: new targets of melanocortin 4 receptor actions. J Mol Endocrinol 2013; 51:R33-50. [PMID: 23881919 DOI: 10.1530/jme-13-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes exert a wide variety of functions with paramount importance in brain physiology. After injury or infection, astrocytes become reactive and they respond by producing a variety of inflammatory mediators that help maintain brain homeostasis. Loss of astrocyte functions as well as their excessive activation can contribute to disease processes; thus, it is important to modulate reactive astrocyte response. Melanocortins are peptides with well-recognized anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activity. Although melanocortin efficacy was shown in systemic models of inflammatory disease, mechanisms involved in their effects have not yet been fully elucidated. Central anti-inflammatory effects of melanocortins and their mechanisms are even less well known, and, in particular, the effects of melanocortins in glial cells are poorly understood. Of the five known melanocortin receptors (MCRs), only subtype 4 is present in astrocytes. MC4R has been shown to mediate melanocortin effects on energy homeostasis, reproduction, inflammation, and neuroprotection and, recently, to modulate astrocyte functions. In this review, we will describe MC4R involvement in anti-inflammatory, anorexigenic, and anti-apoptotic effects of melanocortins in the brain. We will highlight MC4R action in astrocytes and discuss their possible mechanisms of action. Melanocortin effects on astrocytes provide a new means of treating inflammation, obesity, and neurodegeneration, making them attractive targets for therapeutic interventions in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Caruso
- School of Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute (UBA-CONICET), University of Buenos Aires, Paraguay 2155 piso 10, 1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina IFEC (CONICET) Department of Pharmacology, School of Chemistry, National University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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Giuliani D, Bitto A, Galantucci M, Zaffe D, Ottani A, Irrera N, Neri L, Cavallini GM, Altavilla D, Botticelli AR, Squadrito F, Guarini S. Melanocortins protect against progression of Alzheimer's disease in triple-transgenic mice by targeting multiple pathophysiological pathways. Neurobiol Aging 2013; 35:537-47. [PMID: 24094579 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2013.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2013] [Revised: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Besides specific triggering causes, Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves pathophysiological pathways that are common to acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders. Melanocortins induce neuroprotection in experimental acute neurodegenerative conditions, and low melanocortin levels have been found in occasional studies performed in AD-type dementia patients. Here we investigated the possible neuroprotective role of melanocortins in a chronic neurodegenerative disorder, AD, by using 12-week-old (at the start of the study) triple-transgenic (3xTg-AD) mice harboring human transgenes APPSwe, PS1M146V, and tauP301L. Treatment of 3xTg-AD mice, once daily until the end of the study (30 weeks of age), with the melanocortin analog [Nle(4),D-Phe(7)]-α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NDP-α-MSH) reduced cerebral cortex/hippocampus phosphorylation/level of all AD-related biomarkers investigated (mediators of amyloid/tau cascade, oxidative/nitrosative stress, inflammation, apoptosis), decreased neuronal loss, induced over-expression of the synaptic activity-dependent gene Zif268, and improved cognitive functions, relative to saline-treated 3xTg-AD mice. Pharmacological blockade of melanocortin MC4 receptors prevented all neuroprotective effects of NDP-α-MSH. Our study identifies, for the first time, a class of drugs, MC4 receptor-stimulating melanocortins, that are able to counteract the progression of experimental AD by targeting pathophysiological mechanisms up- and down-stream of β-amyloid and tau. These data could have important clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Schaible EV, Steinsträßer A, Jahn-Eimermacher A, Luh C, Sebastiani A, Kornes F, Pieter D, Schäfer MK, Engelhard K, Thal SC. Single administration of tripeptide α-MSH(11-13) attenuates brain damage by reduced inflammation and apoptosis after experimental traumatic brain injury in mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71056. [PMID: 23940690 PMCID: PMC3733710 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Following traumatic brain injury (TBI) neuroinflammatory processes promote neuronal cell loss. Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is a neuropeptide with immunomodulatory properties, which may offer neuroprotection. Due to short half-life and pigmentary side-effects of α-MSH, the C-terminal tripeptide α-MSH(11-13) may be an anti-inflammatory alternative. The present study investigated the mRNA concentrations of the precursor hormone proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and of melanocortin receptors 1 and 4 (MC1R/MC4R) in naive mice and 15 min, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after controlled cortical impact (CCI). Regulation of POMC and MC4R expression did not change after trauma, while MC1R levels increased over time with a 3-fold maximum at 12 h compared to naive brain tissue. The effect of α-MSH(11-13) on secondary lesion volume determined in cresyl violet stained sections (intraperitoneal injection 30 min after insult of 1 mg/kg α-MSH(11-13) or 0.9% NaCl) showed a considerable smaller trauma in α-MSH(11-13) injected mice. The expression of the inflammatory markers TNF-α and IL-1β as well as the total amount of Iba-1 positive cells were not reduced. However, cell branch counting of Iba-1 positive cells revealed a reduced activation of microglia. Furthermore, tripeptide injection reduced neuronal apoptosis analyzed by cleaved caspase-3 and NeuN staining. Based on the results single α-MSH(11-13) administration offers a promising neuroprotective property by modulation of inflammation and prevention of apoptosis after traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Verena Schaible
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Arne Steinsträßer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Antje Jahn-Eimermacher
- Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Clara Luh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Anne Sebastiani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Frida Kornes
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Dana Pieter
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael K. Schäfer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neuroscience, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kristin Engelhard
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neuroscience, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Serge C. Thal
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neuroscience, Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Benjamins JA, Nedelkoska L, Bealmear B, Lisak RP. ACTH protects mature oligodendroglia from excitotoxic and inflammation-related damage in vitro. Glia 2013; 61:1206-17. [PMID: 23832579 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Corticosteroids (CS) are widely employed to treat relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS). Endogenous ACTH is a 39-amino acid peptide that, among other functions, stimulates CS production. Exogenous ACTH 1-39 is used to treat MS relapses, presumably by stimulating endogenous CS production. However, unlike CS, ACTH binds to melanocortin receptors, found in the central nervous system (CNS) as well as on inflammatory cells. Since glia are implicated in MS and other neurodegenerative diseases, and oligodendroglia (OL) are more sensitive to injury than other glia, we characterized the protective effects of ACTH on OL in vitro without the confounding effects of CS. Rat brain cultures containing OL, astrocytes (AS), and microglia (MG) were incubated for 1 day with potentially cytotoxic agents with or without preincubation with ACTH 1-39. The cytotoxic agents killed 55-70% of mature OL, but caused little or no death of AS or MG at the concentrations used. ACTH protected OL from death induced by staurosporine, AMPA, NMDA, kainate, quinolinic acid, or reactive oxygen species, but did not protect against kynurenic acid or nitric oxide. The protective effects of ACTH were dose dependent, and decreased OL death induced by the different agents by 30-60% at 200 nM ACTH. We show for the first time that melanocortin 4 receptor is expressed on OL in addition to MG and AS. In summary, ACTH 1-39 protects OL in vitro from several excitotoxic and inflammation-related insults. ACTH may be activating melanocortin receptors on OL or alternately on AS or MG to prevent OL death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce A Benjamins
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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Hydrogen sulfide slows down progression of experimental Alzheimer's disease by targeting multiple pathophysiological mechanisms. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2013; 104:82-91. [PMID: 23726868 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2013.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Revised: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
It has been previously reported that brain hydrogen sulfide (H2S) synthesis is severely decreased in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients, and plasma H2S levels are negatively correlated with the severity of AD. Here we extensively investigated whether treatment with a H2S donor and spa-waters rich in H2S induces neuroprotection and slows down progression of AD. Studies with sodium hydrosulfide (a H2S donor) and Tabiano's spa-water were carried out in three experimental models of AD. Short-term and long-term treatments with sodium hydrosulfide and/or Tabiano's spa-water significantly protected against impairment in learning and memory in rat models of AD induced by brain injection of β-amyloid1-40 (Aβ) or streptozotocin, and in an AD mouse model harboring human transgenes APPSwe, PS1M146V and tauP301L (3xTg-AD mice). The improvement in behavioral performance was associated with hippocampus was size of Aβ plaques and preservation of the morphological picture, as found in AD rats. Further, lowered concentration/phosphorylation levels of proteins thought to be the central events in AD pathophysiology, namely amyloid precursor protein, presenilin-1, Aβ1-42 and tau phosphorylated at Thr181, Ser396 and Ser202, were detected in 3xTg-AD mice treated with spa-water. The excitotoxicity-triggered oxidative and nitrosative stress was counteracted in 3xTg-AD mice, as indicated by the decreased levels of malondialdehyde and nitrites in the cerebral cortex. Hippocampus reduced activity of c-jun N-terminal kinases, extracellular signal-regulated kinases and p38, which have an established role not only in phosphorylation of tau protein but also in inflammation and apoptosis, was also found. Consistently, decrease in tumor necrosis factor-α level, up-regulation of Bcl-2, and down-regulation of BAX and the downstream executioner caspase-3, also occurred in the hippocampus of 3xTg-AD mice after treatment with Tabiano's spa-water, thus suggesting that it is also able to modulate inflammation and apoptosis. Our findings indicate that appropriate treatments with H2S donors and Tabiano's spa-waters, and may be other spa-waters rich in H2S content, might represent an innovative approach to slow down AD progression in humans by targeting multiple pathophysiological mechanisms.
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Spaccapelo L, Galantucci M, Neri L, Contri M, Pizzala R, D'Amico R, Ottani A, Sandrini M, Zaffe D, Giuliani D, Guarini S. Up-regulation of the canonical Wnt-3A and Sonic hedgehog signaling underlies melanocortin-induced neurogenesis after cerebral ischemia. Eur J Pharmacol 2013; 707:78-86. [PMID: 23535605 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Revised: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In experimental cerebral ischemia, melanocortin MC4 receptor agonists induce neuroprotection and neurogenesis with subsequent long-lasting functional recovery. Here we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying melanocortin-induced neurogenesis. Gerbils were subjected to transient global cerebral ischemia, then they were treated every 12 h, and until sacrifice, with 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU; to label proliferating cells), and the melanocortin analog [Nle(4),d-Phe(7)]α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NDP-α-MSH) or saline. NDP-α-MSH increased hippocampus dentate gyrus (DG) expression of Wnt-3A, β-catenin, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), Zif268, interleukin-10 (IL-10) and doublecortin (DCX), as detected at days 3, 6 and 10 after the ischemic insult. Further, an elevated number of BrdU immunoreactive cells was found at days 3 and 10, and an improved histological picture with reduced neuronal loss at day 10, associated with learning and memory recovery. Pharmacological blockade of the Wnt-3A/β-catenin and Shh pathways, as well as of melanocortin MC4 receptors, prevented all effects of NDP-α-MSH. These data indicate that, in experimental brain ischemia, treatment with melanocortins acting at MC4 receptors induces neural stem/progenitor cell proliferation in the DG by promptly and effectively triggering the canonical Wnt-3A/β-catenin and Shh signaling pathways. Activation of these pathways is associated with up-regulation of the repair factor Zif268 and the neurogenesis facilitating factor IL-10, and it seems to address mainly toward a neuronal fate, as indicated by the increase in DCX positive cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Spaccapelo
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Kahle MP, Bix GJ. Neuronal restoration following ischemic stroke: influences, barriers, and therapeutic potential. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2013; 27:469-78. [PMID: 23392917 DOI: 10.1177/1545968312474119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons, occurs throughout life in the subventricular zone and produces immature neurons that migrate tangentially through the rostral migratory stream to the olfactory bulb. This migration is tightly regulated by both structural and chemical influences. Interestingly, brain insults such as ischemic stroke increase neurogenesis and redirect neuroblast migration to the injury site. This injury-redirected neurogenesis and migration is coupled with angiogenic vasculature and is influenced by many of the factors that positively and negatively affect migration under developmental or normal adult conditions. Additionally, cytokines and chemokines such as stromal cell-derived factor-1 strongly influence neuronal migration poststroke. However, neuronal repopulation or brain regeneration is extremely limited. This limitation may potentially be due to the hostile poststroke microenvironment including the formation of the physical and chemical barriers of glial scar. Furthermore, interspecies differences in poststroke neurogenesis between rodents and humans complicate the translation of experimental results to humans. Despite these challenges, many drugs and other potential therapies have recently been evaluated for potential neurogenic properties poststroke. Improved understanding of poststroke neurorepair may lead to new and more effective neurorestorative therapies.
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Giuliani D, Minutoli L, Ottani A, Spaccapelo L, Bitto A, Galantucci M, Altavilla D, Squadrito F, Guarini S. Melanocortins as potential therapeutic agents in severe hypoxic conditions. Front Neuroendocrinol 2012; 33:179-93. [PMID: 22531139 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Melanocortin peptides with the adrenocorticotropin/melanocyte-stimulating hormone (ACTH/MSH) sequences and synthetic analogs have protective and life-saving effects in experimental conditions of circulatory shock, myocardial ischemia, ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury, respiratory arrest, renal ischemia, intestinal ischemia and testicular ischemia, as well as in experimental heart transplantation. Moreover, melanocortins improve functional recovery and stimulate neurogenesis in experimental models of cerebral ischemia. These beneficial effects of ACTH/MSH-like peptides are mostly mediated by brain melanocortin MC(3)/MC(4) receptors, whose activation triggers protective pathways that counteract the main ischemia/reperfusion-related mechanisms of damage. Induction of signaling pathways and other molecular regulators of neural stem/progenitor cell proliferation, differentiation and integration seems to be the key mechanism of neurogenesis stimulation. Synthesis of stable and highly selective agonists at MC(3) and MC(4) receptors could provide the potential for development of a new class of drugs for a novel approach to management of severe ischemic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Bertolini A. Drug-induced activation of the nervous control of inflammation: a novel possibility for the treatment of hypoxic damage. Eur J Pharmacol 2012; 679:1-8. [PMID: 22293371 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2012.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2011] [Revised: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Together with undernutrition and, on the opposite, overeating and obesity, sudden tissue hypoperfusion is the most important cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Tissue hypoperfusion/hypoxia rapidly triggers an unrestrained inflammatory cascade that is the main responsible for the severity of the eventual outcome. The brain plays a key role in inflammation, either through activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal humoral response or through activation of the vagal "cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway". Both humoral and nervous brain responses to inflammation are under the regulatory control of melanocortins, which have moreover a direct anti-inflammatory effect on inflammatory cells. Abundant experimental and clinical evidence indicates that MC(3)/MC(4) melanocortin receptor agonists and cholinergic receptor agonists (mainly at the α7-nicotinic subtype) should by now be considered as completely innovative, effective drugs for the treatment of hypoxic conditions; melanocortin agonists being practically devoid of harmful side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfio Bertolini
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Diagnostic Services, School of Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Largo del Pozzo 71, 41100 Modena, Italy.
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