1
|
Devereaux J, Robinson AM, Stavely R, Davidson M, Dargahi N, Ephraim R, Kiatos D, Apostolopoulos V, Nurgali K. Alterations in tryptophan metabolism and de novo NAD + biosynthesis within the microbiota-gut-brain axis in chronic intestinal inflammation. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1379335. [PMID: 39015786 PMCID: PMC11250461 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1379335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Inflammatory bowel disease is an incurable and idiopathic disease characterized by recurrent gastrointestinal tract inflammation. Tryptophan metabolism in mammalian cells and some gut microbes comprise intricate chemical networks facilitated by catalytic enzymes that affect the downstream metabolic pathways of de novo nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) synthesis. It is hypothesized that a correlation exists between tryptophan de novo NAD+ synthesis and chronic intestinal inflammation. Methods Transcriptome analysis was performed using high-throughput sequencing of mRNA extracted from the distal colon and brain tissue of Winnie mice with spontaneous chronic colitis and C57BL/6 littermates. Metabolites were assessed using ultra-fast liquid chromatography to determine differences in concentrations of tryptophan metabolites. To evaluate the relative abundance of gut microbial genera involved in tryptophan and nicotinamide metabolism, we performed 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing of fecal samples from C57BL/6 and Winnie mice. Results Tryptophan and nicotinamide metabolism-associated gene expression was altered in distal colons and brains of Winnie mice with chronic intestinal inflammation. Changes in these metabolic pathways were reflected by increases in colon tryptophan metabolites and decreases in brain tryptophan metabolites in Winnie mice. Furthermore, dysbiosis of gut microbiota involved in tryptophan and nicotinamide metabolism was evident in fecal samples from Winnie mice. Our findings shed light on the physiological alterations in tryptophan metabolism, specifically, its diversion from the serotonergic pathway toward the kynurenine pathway and consequential effects on de novo NAD+ synthesis in chronic intestinal inflammation. Conclusion The results of this study reveal differential expression of tryptophan and nicotinamide metabolism-associated genes in the distal colon and brain in Winnie mice with chronic intestinal inflammation. These data provide evidence supporting the role of tryptophan metabolism and de novo NAD+ synthesis in IBD pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeannie Devereaux
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ainsley M. Robinson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Rural Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rhian Stavely
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Majid Davidson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Narges Dargahi
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ramya Ephraim
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Dimitros Kiatos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Immunology Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu Y, Robinson AM, Su XQ, Nurgali K. Krill Oil and Its Bioactive Components as a Potential Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Insights from In Vivo and In Vitro Studies. Biomolecules 2024; 14:447. [PMID: 38672464 PMCID: PMC11048140 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Krill oil is extracted from krill, a small crustacean in the Antarctic Ocean. It has received growing attention because of krill oil's unique properties and diverse health benefits. Recent experimental and clinical studies suggest that it has potential therapeutic benefits in preventing the development of a range of chronic conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Krill oil is enriched with long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, and the potent antioxidant astaxanthin, contributing to its therapeutic properties. The possible underlying mechanisms of krill oil's health benefits include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, maintaining intestinal barrier functions, and modulating gut microbiota. This review aims to provide an overview of the beneficial effects of krill oil and its bioactive components on intestinal inflammation and to discuss the findings on the molecular mechanisms associated with the role of krill oil in IBD prevention and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Liu
- Institute for Health & Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (Y.L.); (A.M.R.)
| | - Ainsley M. Robinson
- Institute for Health & Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (Y.L.); (A.M.R.)
- School of Rural Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Medicine Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Xiao Qun Su
- Institute for Health & Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (Y.L.); (A.M.R.)
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health & Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (Y.L.); (A.M.R.)
- Department of Medicine Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Stavely R, Robinson AM, Fraser S, Filippone RT, Stojanovska V, Eri R, Apostolopoulos V, Sakkal S, Nurgali K. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells mitigate chronic colitis and enteric neuropathy via anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative mechanisms. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6649. [PMID: 38503815 PMCID: PMC10951223 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57070-6] [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: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Current treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are often inadequate due to limited efficacy and toxicity, leading to surgical resection in refractory cases. IBD's broad and complex pathogenesis involving the immune system, enteric nervous system, microbiome, and oxidative stress requires more effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BM-MSC) treatments in spontaneous chronic colitis using the Winnie mouse model which closely replicates the presentation and inflammatory profile of ulcerative colitis. The 14-day BM-MSC treatment regimen reduced the severity of colitis, leading to the attenuation of diarrheal symptoms and recovery in body mass. Morphological and histological abnormalities in the colon were also alleviated. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that BM-MSC treatment led to alterations in gene expression profiles primarily downregulating genes related to inflammation, including pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and other biomarkers of inflammation. Further evaluation of immune cell populations using immunohistochemistry revealed a reduction in leukocyte infiltration upon BM-MSC treatment. Notably, enteric neuronal gene signatures were the most impacted by BM-MSC treatment, which correlated with the restoration of neuronal density in the myenteric ganglia. Moreover, BM-MSCs exhibited neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress-induced neuronal loss through antioxidant mechanisms, including the reduction of mitochondrial-derived superoxide and attenuation of oxidative stress-induced HMGB1 translocation, potentially relying on MSC-derived SOD1. These findings suggest that BM-MSCs hold promise as a therapeutic intervention to mitigate chronic colitis by exerting anti-inflammatory effects and protecting the enteric nervous system from oxidative stress-induced damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhian Stavely
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Ainsley M Robinson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah Fraser
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Vanesa Stojanovska
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Immunology Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Samy Sakkal
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Medicine Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Enteric Neuropathy Lab, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, St Albans, VIC, 3021, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen Y, Huang C, Du F, Xiao Z, Qian W, Bai T, Song J, Song Y, Hou X, Zhang L. EphB2 promotes enteric nitrergic hyperinnervation and neurogenic inflammation in DSS-induced chronic colitis in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 129:111591. [PMID: 38295544 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111591] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enteric nervous system (ENS) has been closely associated with the neuro-immune response and is currently considered a reliable target for intestinal inflammation. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) nerves are involved in inflammatory diseases by releasing nitric oxide (NO). EphB2 expression and density of innervation of the mucosal layer are positively correlated with the severity of intestinal inflammatory responses. In this study, we hypothesized that a EphB2-mediated mechanism may regulate enteric immunity through modulation of nNOS nerves. METHODS Firstly, the Western blot (WB) method was employed to quantify EphB2 expression in the intestinal mucosal layer of DSS mice and assess alterations in nerve fiber activation and density. Immunofluorescence (IF) double staining with nNOS and neuronal marker PGP9.5 was conducted to measure nNOS nerve fiber density within the intestinal mucosal layer of mice. Subsequently, in vivo experiments were performed to investigate the inhibitory or activatory effect of EphB2Fc or EphrinB2Fc on EphB2 expression and activation. Immunoprecipitation experiments confirmed the interaction between EphB2 and nNOS nerves. WB and IF experiments were carried out to evaluate both inflammatory conditions of mouse colonic mucosa following intervention with EphB2Fc/EphrinB2Fc as well as changes in nNOS nerve fibers expression. Finally, in vitro experiments, neurally-mediated inflammation was assessed in the organ bath system by activating intestinal mucosal innervation through Veratridine (VER) and electrical field stimulation (EFS) techniques for 3 h. The activation of nNOS nerves was inhibited by nitroindazole (7NI). WB was employed to detect changes in the expression of inflammatory factors in the intestinal mucosal layer in EphB2Fc/EphrinB2Fc treated mice and control group. KEY RESULTS We found that the expression of EphB2 and density nNOS nerve fibers in the intestinal mucosa were positively correlated with the colitis response. Blocking (EphB2Fc)/activating (EphrinB2Fc) EphB2 in vivo significantly reduced/increased the density of nNOS nerve fibers and expression of inflammatory factors in colonic mucosa of DSS treated mice. In vitro, blocking nNOS nerves activation attenuated the inflammatory reaction induced by either EFS or EphB2. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provided evidence that EphB2 mediated regulation of innate immunity-ENS crosstalk might represent an attractive target for novel therapeutic strategies in ulcerative colitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Clinical Center & Key Lab of Intestinal & Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chao Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Department of Endoscopy, Quanzhou First Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Fan Du
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Zhuanglong Xiao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Wei Qian
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Tao Bai
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Jun Song
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yuhu Song
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Xiaohua Hou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - Lei Zhang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pabois J, Durand T, Le Berre C, Filippone RT, Noël T, Durieu E, Bossard C, Bruneau S, Rolli-Derkinderen M, Nurgali K, Neunlist M, Bourreille A, Neveu I, Naveilhan P. Role of ICAM-1 in the Adhesion of T Cells to Enteric Glia: Perspectives in the Formation of Plexitis in Crohn's Disease. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 18:133-153. [PMID: 38428588 PMCID: PMC11127036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The presence of myenteric plexitis in the proximal resection margins is a predictive factor of early postoperative recurrence in Crohn's disease. To decipher the mechanisms leading to their formation, T-cell interactions with enteric neural cells were studied in vitro and in vivo. METHODS T cells close to myenteric neural cells were retrospectively quantified in ileocolonic resections from 9 control subjects with cancer and 20 patients with Crohn's disease. The mechanisms involved in T-cell adhesion were then investigated in co-cultures of T lymphocytes with enteric glial cells (glia). Finally, the implication of adhesion molecules in the development of plexitis and colitis was studied in vitro but also in vivo in Winnie mice. RESULTS The mean number of T cells close to glia, but not neurons, was significantly higher in the myenteric ganglia of relapsing patients with Crohn's disease (2.42 ± 0.5) as compared with controls (0.36 ± 0.08, P = .0007). Co-culture experiments showed that exposure to proinflammatory cytokines enhanced T-cell adhesion to glia and increased intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression in glia. We next demonstrated that T-cell adhesion to glia was inhibited by an anti-ICAM-1 antibody. Finally, using the Winnie mouse model of colitis, we showed that the blockage of ICAM-1/lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) with lifitegrast reduced colitis severity and decreased T-cell infiltration in the myenteric plexus. CONCLUSIONS Our present work argues for a role of glia-T-cell interaction in the development of myenteric plexitis through the adhesion molecules ICAM-1/LFA-1 and suggests that deciphering the functional consequences of glia-T-cell interaction is important to understand the mechanisms implicated in the development and recurrence of Crohn's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Pabois
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Tony Durand
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Catherine Le Berre
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | | | - Théo Noël
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Emilie Durieu
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Céline Bossard
- Service d'Anatomie et Cytologie Pathologique, Inserm, CRCINA, Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Sarah Bruneau
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, INSERM, Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, UMR 1064, Nantes, France
| | - Malvyne Rolli-Derkinderen
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Medicine Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Program, Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michel Neunlist
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Arnaud Bourreille
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Isabelle Neveu
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France
| | - Philippe Naveilhan
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Inserm, TENS, The Enteric Nervous System in Gut and Brain Diseases, IMAD, Nantes, France.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rahman AA, Stavely R, Pan W, Ott L, Ohishi K, Ohkura T, Han C, Hotta R, Goldstein AM. Optogenetic Activation of Cholinergic Enteric Neurons Reduces Inflammation in Experimental Colitis. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:907-921. [PMID: 38272444 PMCID: PMC11026705 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Intestinal inflammation is associated with loss of enteric cholinergic neurons. Given the systemic anti-inflammatory role of cholinergic innervation, we hypothesized that enteric cholinergic neurons similarly possess anti-inflammatory properties and may represent a novel target to treat inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS Mice were fed 2.5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) for 7 days to induce colitis. Cholinergic enteric neurons, which express choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), were focally ablated in the midcolon of ChAT::Cre;R26-iDTR mice by local injection of diphtheria toxin before colitis induction. Activation of enteric cholinergic neurons was achieved using ChAT::Cre;R26-ChR2 mice, in which ChAT+ neurons express channelrhodopsin-2, with daily blue light stimulation delivered via an intracolonic probe during the 7 days of DSS treatment. Colitis severity, ENS structure, and smooth muscle contractility were assessed by histology, immunohistochemistry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, organ bath, and electromyography. In vitro studies assessed the anti-inflammatory role of enteric cholinergic neurons on cultured muscularis macrophages. RESULTS Ablation of ChAT+ neurons in DSS-treated mice exacerbated colitis, as measured by weight loss, colon shortening, histologic inflammation, and CD45+ cell infiltration, and led to colonic dysmotility. Conversely, optogenetic activation of enteric cholinergic neurons improved colitis, preserved smooth muscle contractility, protected against loss of cholinergic neurons, and reduced proinflammatory cytokine production. Both acetylcholine and optogenetic cholinergic neuron activation in vitro reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated muscularis macrophages. CONCLUSIONS These findings show that enteric cholinergic neurons have an anti-inflammatory role in the colon and should be explored as a potential inflammatory bowel disease treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Rahman
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rhian Stavely
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Weikang Pan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Leah Ott
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kensuke Ohishi
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Drug Discovery Laboratory, Wakunaga Pharmaceuticals Company, Ltd, Akitakata, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ohkura
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Christopher Han
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ryo Hotta
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Allan M Goldstein
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ephraim R, Feehan J, Fraser S, Nurgali K, Apostolopoulos V. Cancer Immunotherapy: The Checkpoint between Chronic Colitis and Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246131. [PMID: 36551617 PMCID: PMC9776998 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a group of diseases that cause intestinal inflammation and lesions because of an abnormal immune response to host gut microflora. Corticosteroids, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics are often used to reduce non-specific inflammation and relapse rates; however, such treatments are ineffective over time. Patients with chronic colitis are more susceptible to developing colorectal cancer, especially those with a longer duration of colitis. There is often a limit in using chemotherapy due to side effects, leading to reduced efficacy, leaving an urgent need to improve treatments and identify new therapeutic targets. Cancer immunotherapy has made significant advances in recent years and is mainly categorized as cancer vaccines, adoptive cellular immunotherapy, or immune checkpoint blockade therapies. Checkpoint markers are expressed on cancer cells to evade the immune system, and as a result checkpoint inhibitors have transformed cancer treatment in the last 5-10 years. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have produced long-lasting clinical responses in both single and combination therapies. Winnie mice are a viable model of spontaneous chronic colitis with immune responses like human IBD. Determining the expression levels of checkpoint markers in tissues from these mice will provide insights into disease initiation, progression, and cancer. Such information will lead to identification of novel checkpoint markers and the development of treatments with or without immune checkpoint inhibitors or vaccines to slow or stop disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Ephraim
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Jack Feehan
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Sarah Fraser
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3030, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Stavely R, Sahakian L, Filippone RT, Stojanovska V, Bornstein JC, Sakkal S, Nurgali K. Oxidative Stress-Induced HMGB1 Translocation in Myenteric Neurons Contributes to Neuropathy in Colitis. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121831. [PMID: 36551259 PMCID: PMC9776169 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a damage-associated molecular pattern released by dying cells to stimulate the immune response. During cell death, HMGB1 is translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and passively released. High levels of secreted HMGB1 are observed in the faeces of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, indicating its role in IBD pathophysiology and potential as a non-invasive IBD biomarker. HMGB1 is important in regulating neuronal damage in the central nervous system; its pathological activity is intertwined with oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, HMGB1 expression in the enteric nervous system and its relevance to intestinal neuroinflammation is explored in organotypic cultures of the myenteric plexus exposed to oxidative stimuli and in Winnie mice with spontaneous chronic colitis. Oxidative stimuli induced cytoplasmic translocation of HMGB1 in myenteric neurons in organotypic preparations. HMGB1 translocation correlated with enteric neuronal loss and oxidative stress in the myenteric ganglia of Winnie mice. Inhibition of HMGB1 by glycyrrhizic acid ameliorated HMGB1 translocation and myenteric neuronal loss in Winnie mice. These data highlight modulation of HMGB1 signalling as a therapeutic strategy to reduce the consequences of enteric neuroinflammation in colitis, warranting the exploration of therapeutics acting on the HMGB1 pathway as an adjunct treatment with current anti-inflammatory agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhian Stavely
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Medicine Western Health, The University of Melbourne, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Lauren Sahakian
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Rhiannon T. Filippone
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Vanesa Stojanovska
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash Health Translation Precinct, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Joel C. Bornstein
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Samy Sakkal
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
- Department of Medicine Western Health, The University of Melbourne, St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
- Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Program, Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), St Albans, VIC 3021, Australia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Stavely R, Rahman AA, Sahakian L, Prakash MD, Robinson AM, Hassanzadeganroudsari M, Filippone RT, Fraser S, Eri R, Bornstein JC, Apostolopoulos V, Nurgali K. Divergent Adaptations in Autonomic Nerve Activity and Neuroimmune Signaling Associated With the Severity of Inflammation in Chronic Colitis. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2022; 28:1229-1243. [PMID: 35380670 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izac060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is thought to play a critical role in the anti-inflammatory reflex pathway in acute colitis via its interaction with the spleen and colon. Inflammation in the intestine is associated with a blunting of vagal signaling and increased sympathetic activity. As a corollary, methods to restore sympatho-vagal balance are being investigated as therapeutic strategies for the treatment of intestinal inflammation. Nevertheless, it is indefinite whether these autonomic signaling adaptations in colitis are detrimental or beneficial to controlling intestinal inflammation. In this study, models of moderate and severe chronic colitis are utilized to resolve the correlations between sympatho-vagal signaling and the severity of intestinal inflammation. METHODS Spleens and colons were collected from Winnie (moderate colitis), Winnie-Prolapse (severe colitis), and control C57BL/6 mice. Changes to the size and histomorphology of spleens were evaluated. Flow cytometry was used to determine the expression of adrenergic and cholinergic signaling proteins in splenic B and T lymphocytes. The inflammatory profile of the spleen and colon was determined using a RT-PCR gene array. Blood pressure, heart rate, splanchnic sympathetic nerve and vagus nerve activity were recorded. RESULTS Spleens and colons from Winnie and Winnie-Prolapse mice exhibited gross abnormalities by histopathology. Genes associated with a pro-inflammatory response were upregulated in the colons from Winnie and further augmented in colons from Winnie-Prolapse mice. Conversely, many pro-inflammatory markers were downregulated in the spleens from Winnie-Prolapse mice. Heightened activity of the splanchnic nerve was observed in Winnie but not Winnie-Prolapse mice. Conversely, vagal nerve activity was greater in Winnie-Prolapse mice compared with Winnie mice. Splenic lymphocytes expressing α1 and β2 adrenoreceptors were reduced, but those expressing α7 nAChR and producing acetylcholine were increased in Winnie and Winnie-Prolapse mice. CONCLUSIONS Sympathetic activity may correlate with an adaptive mechanism to reduce the severity of chronic colitis. The Winnie and Winnie-Prolapse mouse models of moderate and severe chronic colitis are well suited to examine the pathophysiology of progressive chronic intestinal inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhian Stavely
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ahmed A Rahman
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren Sahakian
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Monica D Prakash
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ainsley M Robinson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Majid Hassanzadeganroudsari
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rhiannon T Filippone
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Fraser
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Filippone RT, Dargahi N, Eri R, Uranga JA, Bornstein JC, Apostolopoulos V, Nurgali K. Potent CCR3 Receptor Antagonist, SB328437, Suppresses Colonic Eosinophil Chemotaxis and Inflammation in the Winnie Murine Model of Spontaneous Chronic Colitis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147780. [PMID: 35887133 PMCID: PMC9317166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Eosinophils and their regulatory molecules have been associated with chronic intestinal inflammation and gastrointestinal dysfunctions; eosinophil accumulation in the gut is prominent in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The chemokine receptor CCR3 plays a pivotal role in local and systemic recruitment and activation of eosinophils. In this study, we targeted CCR3-ligand interactions with a potent CCR3 receptor antagonist, SB328437, to alleviate eosinophil-associated immunological responses in the Winnie model of spontaneous chronic colitis. Winnie and C57BL/6 mice were treated with SB328437 or vehicle. Clinical and histopathological parameters of chronic colitis were assessed. Flow cytometry was performed to discern changes in colonic, splenic, circulatory, and bone marrow-derived leukocytes. Changes to the serum levels of eosinophil-associated chemokines and cytokines were measured using BioPlex. Inhibition of CCR3 receptors with SB328437 attenuated disease activity and gross morphological damage to the inflamed intestines and reduced eosinophils and their regulatory molecules in the inflamed colon and circulation. SB328437 had no effect on eosinophils and their progenitor cells in the spleen and bone marrow. This study demonstrates that targeting eosinophils via the CCR3 axis has anti-inflammatory effects in the inflamed intestine, and also contributes to understanding the role of eosinophils as potential end-point targets for IBD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon T. Filippone
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (R.T.F.); (N.D.); (K.N.)
| | - Narges Dargahi
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (R.T.F.); (N.D.); (K.N.)
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7248, Australia;
| | - Jose A. Uranga
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, University Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), 28922 Alcorcón, Spain;
- High Performance Research Group in Physiopathology and Pharmacology of the Digestive System (NeuGut), University Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), 28922 Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Joel C. Bornstein
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (R.T.F.); (N.D.); (K.N.)
- Immunology Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia; (R.T.F.); (N.D.); (K.N.)
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC 3021, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Phenotyping of Fecal Microbiota of Winnie, a Rodent Model of Spontaneous Chronic Colitis, Reveals Specific Metabolic, Genotoxic, and Pro-inflammatory Properties. Inflammation 2022; 45:2477-2497. [PMID: 35732858 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-022-01706-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Winnie, a mouse carrying a missense mutation in the MUC2 mucin gene, is a valuable model for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with signs and symptoms that have multiple similarities with those observed in patients with ulcerative colitis. MUC2 mucin is present in Winnie, but is not firmly compacted in a tight inner layer. Indeed, these mice develop chronic intestinal inflammation due to the primary epithelial defect with signs of mucosal damage, including thickening of muscle and mucosal layers, goblet cell loss, increased intestinal permeability, enhanced susceptibility to luminal inflammation-inducing toxins, and alteration of innervation in the distal colon. In this study, we show that the intestinal environment of the Winnie mouse, genetically determined by MUC2 mutation, selects an intestinal microbial community characterized by specific pro-inflammatory, genotoxic, and metabolic features that could imply a direct involvement in the pathogenesis of chronic intestinal inflammation. We report results obtained by using a variety of in vitro approaches for fecal microbiota functional characterization. These approaches include Caco-2 cell cultures and Caco-2/THP-1 cell co-culture models for evaluation of geno-cytotoxic and pro-inflammatory properties using a panel of 43 marker RNAs assayed by RT-qPCR, and cell-based phenotypic testing for metabolic profiling of the intestinal microbial communities by Biolog EcoPlates. While adding a further step towards understanding the etiopathogenetic mechanisms underlying IBD, the results of this study provide a reliable method for phenotyping gut microbial communities, which can complement their structural characterization by providing novel functional information.
Collapse
|
12
|
Robinson AM, Stavely R, Miller S, Eri R, Nurgali K. Mesenchymal stem cell treatment for enteric neuropathy in the Winnie mouse model of spontaneous chronic colitis. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 389:41-70. [PMID: 35536444 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03633-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gut inflammation with periods of acute flares and remission. Beneficial effects of a single dose of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based treatment have been demonstrated in acute models of colitis. No studies investigated therapeutic effects of MSCs for the attenuation of enteric neuropathy in a chronic model of colitis. The short and long-term effects of MSC treatment in modulating inflammation and damage to the enteric nervous system (ENS) were studied in the Winnie mouse model of spontaneous chronic colitis highly representative of human IBD. Winnie mice received a single dose of either 1 × 106 human bone marrow-derived MSCs or 100µL PBS by intracolonic enema. C57BL/6 mice received 100µL PBS. Colon tissues were collected at 3 and 60 days post MSC administration to evaluate the short-term and long-term effects of MSCs on inflammation and enteric neuropathy by histological and immunohistochemical analyses. In a separate set of experiments, multiple treatments with 4 × 106 and 2 × 106 MSCs were performed and tissue collected at 3 days post treatment. Chronic intestinal inflammation in Winnie mice was associated with persistent diarrhea, perianal bleeding, morphological changes, and immune cell infiltration in the colon. Significant changes to the ENS, including impairment of cholinergic, noradrenergic and sensory innervation, and myenteric neuronal loss were prominent in Winnie mice. Treatment with a single dose of bone marrow-derived MSCs was ineffective in attenuating chronic inflammation and enteric neuropathy in Winnie.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ainsley M Robinson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rhian Stavely
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Sarah Miller
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- University of Tasmania, School of Health Sciences, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Department of Medicine Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Al Saedi A, Sharma S, Bani Hassan E, Chen L, Ghasem-Zadeh A, Hassanzadeganroudsari M, Gooi JH, Stavely R, Eri R, Miao D, Nurgali K, Duque G. Characterization of Skeletal Phenotype and Associated Mechanisms With Chronic Intestinal Inflammation in the Winnie Mouse Model of Spontaneous Chronic Colitis. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2022; 28:259-272. [PMID: 34347076 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izab174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoporosis is a common extraintestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, studies have been scarce, mainly because of the lack of an appropriate animal model of colitis-associated bone loss. In this study, we aimed to decipher skeletal manifestations in the Winnie mouse model of spontaneous chronic colitis, which carries a MUC2 gene mutation and closely replicates ulcerative colitis. In our study, Winnie mice, prior to the colitis onset at 6 weeks old and progression at 14 and 24 weeks old, were compared with age-matched C57BL/6 controls. We studied several possible mechanisms involved in colitis-associated bone loss. METHODS We assessed for bone quality (eg, microcomputed tomography [micro-CT], static and dynamic histomorphometry, 3-point bending, and ex vivo bone marrow analysis) and associated mechanisms (eg, electrochemical recordings for gut-derived serotonin levels, real-time polymerase chain reaction [qRT-PCR], double immunofluorescence microscopy, intestinal inflammation levels by lipocalin-2 assay, serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D) from Winnie (6-24 weeks) and age-matched C57BL6 mice. RESULTS Deterioration in trabecular and cortical bone microarchitecture, reductions in bone formation, mineral apposition rate, bone volume/total volume, osteoid volume/bone surface, and bone strength were observed in Winnie mice compared with controls. Decreased osteoblast and increased osteoclast numbers were prominent in Winnie mice compared with controls. Upregulation of 5-HTR1B gene and increased association of FOXO1 with ATF4 complex were identified as associated mechanisms concomitant to overt inflammation and high levels of gut-derived serotonin in 14-week and 24-week Winnie mice. CONCLUSIONS Skeletal phenotype of the Winnie mouse model of spontaneous chronic colitis closely represents manifestations of IBD-associated osteoporosis/osteopenia. The onset and progression of intestinal inflammation are associated with increased gut-derived serotonin level, increased bone resorption, and decreased bone formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Al Saedi
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ebrahim Bani Hassan
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lulu Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ali Ghasem-Zadeh
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Departments of Medicine and Endocrinology, Austin Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Jonathan H Gooi
- St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rhian Stavely
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Dengshun Miao
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Calcium Research Laboratory, McGill University Health Centre and Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Gustavo Duque
- Department of Medicine-Western Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Department of Medicine-Western Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sahakian L, McQuade R, Stavely R, Robinson A, Filippone RT, Hassanzadeganroudsari M, Eri R, Abalo R, Bornstein JC, Kelley MR, Nurgali K. Molecular Targets to Alleviate Enteric Neuropathy and Gastrointestinal Dysfunction. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1383:221-228. [PMID: 36587161 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-05843-1_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Enteric neuropathy underlies long-term gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction associated with several pathological conditions. Our previous studies have demonstrated that structural and functional changes in the enteric nervous system (ENS) result in persistent alterations of intestinal functions long after the acute insult. These changes lead to aberrant immune response and chronic dysregulation of the epithelial barrier. Damage to the ENS is prognostic of disease progression and plays an important role in the recurrence of clinical manifestations. This suggests that the ENS is a viable therapeutic target to alleviate chronic intestinal dysfunction. Our recent studies in preclinical animal models have progressed into the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of enteric neuropathy in various chronic GI disorders. We have tested the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective efficacy of novel compounds targeting specific molecular pathways. Ex vivo studies in human tissues freshly collected after resection surgeries provide an understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in enteric neuropathy. In vivo treatments in animal models provide data on the efficacy and the mechanisms of actions of the novel compounds and their combinations with clinically used therapies. These novel findings provide avenues for the development of safe, cost-effective, and highly efficacious treatments of GI disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Sahakian
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rachel McQuade
- Department of Medicine Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rhian Stavely
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ainsley Robinson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rhiannon T Filippone
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Majid Hassanzadeganroudsari
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Raj Eri
- University of Tasmania, School of Health Sciences, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Raquel Abalo
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Spain.,High Performance Research Group in Physiopathology and Pharmacology of the Digestive System (NeuGut-URJC), URJC, Alcorcón, Spain.,Associated I+D+i Unit to the Institute of Medicinal Chemistry (IQM), Scientific Research Superior Council (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Working Group of Basic Sciences in Pain and Analgesia of the Spanish Pain Society (Grupo de Trabajo de Ciencias Básicas en Dolor y Analgesia de la Sociedad Española del Dolor), Madrid, Spain
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, Melbourne University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark R Kelley
- Indiana University Simon Cancer Center, Departments of Pediatrics, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Pharmacology & Toxicology, Program in Pediatric Molecular Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Department of Medicine Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia. .,Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Stavely R, Abalo R, Nurgali K. Targeting Enteric Neurons and Plexitis for the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 21:1428-1439. [PMID: 32416686 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121666200516173242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are pathological conditions with an unknown aetiology that are characterised by severe inflammation of the intestinal tract and collectively referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Current treatments are mostly ineffective due to their limited efficacy or toxicity, necessitating surgical resection of the affected bowel. The management of IBD is hindered by a lack of prognostic markers for clinical inflammatory relapse. Intestinal inflammation associates with the infiltration of immune cells (leukocytes) into, or surrounding the neuronal ganglia of the enteric nervous system (ENS) termed plexitis or ganglionitis. Histological observation of plexitis in unaffected intestinal regions is emerging as a vital predictive marker for IBD relapses. Plexitis associates with alterations to the structure, cellular composition, molecular expression and electrophysiological function of enteric neurons. Moreover, plexitis often occurs before the onset of gross clinical inflammation, which may indicate that plexitis can contribute to the progression of intestinal inflammation. In this review, the bilateral relationships between the ENS and inflammation are discussed. These include the effects and mechanisms of inflammation-induced enteric neuronal loss and plasticity. Additionally, the role of enteric neurons in preventing antigenic/pathogenic insult and immunomodulation is explored. While all current treatments target the inflammatory pathology of IBD, interventions that protect the ENS may offer an alternative avenue for therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhian Stavely
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA,Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raquel Abalo
- Área de Farmacología y Nutrición, Departamento de Ciencias Básicas de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), 28922 Alcorcón, Spain,Unidad Asociada I+D+i del Instituto de Química Médica (IQM), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas
(CSIC), Madrid, Spain,High Performance Research Group in Physiopathology and Pharmacology of the Digestive System NeuGut-URJC
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Medicine Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences,
The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mao T, Liu X, Cheng Q, Chen Y. Transcutaneous Acupoint Electrical Stimulation on Chemotherapy-Induced Constipation for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2021; 8:385-392. [PMID: 34159231 PMCID: PMC8186381 DOI: 10.4103/2347-5625.311129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Chemotherapy-induced constipation (CIC) adversely affects the quality of life of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effects of transcutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation (TAES) on CIC. Methods: Sixty NSCLC patients who received chemotherapy at Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, China, were assigned to the TAES (n = 30) or control (n = 30) group using Research Randomizer. In the TAES group, four acupoints, namely Tianshu, Quchi, Zusanli, and Shangjuxu, were stimulated six times a week, lasting for 4 weeks, while the control group received the usual care. The Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) and the Constipation Assessment Scale (CAS) were used. Results: Both the BSFS and CAS scores for the experimental group were significantly higher than that for the control group (P = 0.004 and P < 0.001 separately). Conclusions: TAES was effective for alleviating constipation in NSCLC patients receiving chemotherapy and was a safe and practical nursing intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Mao
- Department of Nursing, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Palliative Care, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Department of Health Service, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qinqin Cheng
- Department of Pain Management, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yongyi Chen
- Department of Hospital Office, Hunan Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shastri S, Shinde T, Perera AP, Gueven N, Eri R. Idebenone Protects against Spontaneous Chronic Murine Colitis by Alleviating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Inflammatory Response. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8100384. [PMID: 32998266 PMCID: PMC7601570 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8100384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in intestinal secretory goblet cells has been linked to the development of ulcerative colitis (UC). Emerging evidence suggests that the short chain quinone drug idebenone displays anti-inflammatory activity in addition to its potent antioxidant and mitochondrial electron donor properties. This study evaluated the impact of idebenone in Winnie mice, that are characterized by spontaneous chronic intestinal inflammation and ER stress caused by a missense mutation in the mucin MUC2 gene. Idebenone (200 mg/kg) was orally administered daily to 5-6 weeks old Winnie mice over a period of 21 days. Idebenone treatment substantially improved body weight gain, disease activity index (DAI), colon length and histopathology score. Immunohistochemistry revealed increased expression of MUC2 protein in goblet cells, consistent with increased MUC2 mRNA levels. Furthermore, idebenone significantly reduced the expression of the ER stress markers C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) and X-box binding protein-1 (XBP-1) at both mRNA and protein levels. Idebenone also effectively reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in colonic explants. Taken together, these results indicate that idebenone could represent a potential therapeutic approach against human UC by its strong anti-inflammatory activity and its ability to reduce markers of ER stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Shastri
- Gut Health Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7250, Tasmania, Australia; (T.S.); (A.P.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (R.E.); Tel.: +61-4-4992-4236 (S.S.); +61-3-6226-5017 (R.E.)
| | - Tanvi Shinde
- Gut Health Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7250, Tasmania, Australia; (T.S.); (A.P.P.)
- Centre for Food Innovation, Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7250, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Agampodi Promoda Perera
- Gut Health Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7250, Tasmania, Australia; (T.S.); (A.P.P.)
| | - Nuri Gueven
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7005, Tasmania, Australia;
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- Gut Health Laboratory, School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7250, Tasmania, Australia; (T.S.); (A.P.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (R.E.); Tel.: +61-4-4992-4236 (S.S.); +61-3-6226-5017 (R.E.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sahakian L, Filippone RT, Stavely R, Robinson AM, Yan XS, Abalo R, Eri R, Bornstein JC, Kelley MR, Nurgali K. Inhibition of APE1/Ref-1 Redox Signaling Alleviates Intestinal Dysfunction and Damage to Myenteric Neurons in a Mouse Model of Spontaneous Chronic Colitis. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2020; 27:388-406. [PMID: 32618996 PMCID: PMC8287929 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izaa161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) associates with damage to the enteric nervous system (ENS), leading to gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction. Oxidative stress is important for the pathophysiology of inflammation-induced enteric neuropathy and GI dysfunction. Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (APE1/Ref-1) is a dual functioning protein that is an essential regulator of the cellular response to oxidative stress. In this study, we aimed to determine whether an APE1/Ref-1 redox domain inhibitor, APX3330, alleviates inflammation-induced oxidative stress that leads to enteric neuropathy in the Winnie murine model of spontaneous chronic colitis. METHODS Winnie mice received APX3330 or vehicle via intraperitoneal injections over 2 weeks and were compared with C57BL/6 controls. In vivo disease activity and GI transit were evaluated. Ex vivo experiments were performed to assess functional parameters of colonic motility, immune cell infiltration, and changes to the ENS. RESULTS Targeting APE1/Ref-1 redox activity with APX3330 improved disease severity, reduced immune cell infiltration, restored GI function ,and provided neuroprotective effects to the enteric nervous system. Inhibition of APE1/Ref-1 redox signaling leading to reduced mitochondrial superoxide production, oxidative DNA damage, and translocation of high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) was involved in neuroprotective effects of APX3330 in enteric neurons. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to investigate inhibition of APE1/Ref-1's redox activity via APX3330 in an animal model of chronic intestinal inflammation. Inhibition of the redox function of APE1/Ref-1 is a novel strategy that might lead to a possible application of APX3330 for the treatment of IBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Sahakian
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rhiannon T Filippone
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rhian Stavely
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ainsley M Robinson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xu Sean Yan
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raquel Abalo
- Área de Farmacología y Nutrición y Unidad Asociada al Instituto de Química Médica (IQM) del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain,High Performance Research Group in Physiopathology and Pharmacology of the Digestive System at URJC, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- University of Tasmania, School of Health Sciences, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, Melbourne University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark R Kelley
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Departments of Pediatrics, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Pharmacology & Toxicology, Program in Pediatric Molecular Oncology & Experimental Therapeutics, Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, USA
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Department of Medicine Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,Address correspondence to: Kulmira Nurgali, Level 4, Research Labs, Western Centre for Health Research & Education, Sunshine Hospital, 176 Furlong Road, St Albans, 3021, VIC, Australia. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Herath M, Hosie S, Bornstein JC, Franks AE, Hill-Yardin EL. The Role of the Gastrointestinal Mucus System in Intestinal Homeostasis: Implications for Neurological Disorders. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:248. [PMID: 32547962 PMCID: PMC7270209 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucus is integral to gut health and its properties may be affected in neurological disease. Mucus comprises a hydrated network of polymers including glycosylated mucin proteins. We propose that factors that influence the nervous system may also affect the volume, viscosity, porosity of mucus composition and subsequently, gastrointestinal (GI) microbial populations. The gut has its own intrinsic neuronal network, the enteric nervous system, which extends the length of the GI tract and innervates the mucosal epithelium. The ENS regulates gut function including mucus secretion and renewal. Both dysbiosis and gut dysfunction are commonly reported in several neurological disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease as well in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders including autism. Since some microbes use mucus as a prominent energy source, changes in mucus properties could alter, and even exacerbate, dysbiosis-related gut symptoms in neurological disorders. This review summarizes existing knowledge of the structure and function of the mucus of the GI tract and highlights areas to be addressed in future research to better understand how intestinal homeostasis is impacted in neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madushani Herath
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Suzanne Hosie
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ashley E Franks
- School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Elisa L Hill-Yardin
- Department of Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sharna SS, Balasuriya GK, Hosie S, Nithianantharajah J, Franks AE, Hill-Yardin EL. Altered Caecal Neuroimmune Interactions in the Neuroligin-3 R451C Mouse Model of Autism. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:85. [PMID: 32327975 PMCID: PMC7160799 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The intrinsic nervous system of the gut interacts with the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) via bidirectional neuroimmune interactions. The caecum is an understudied region of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that houses a large supply of microbes and is involved in generating immune responses. The caecal patch is a lymphoid aggregate located within the caecum that regulates microbial content and immune responses. People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD; autism) experience serious GI dysfunction, including inflammatory disorders, more frequently than the general population. Autism is a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder defined by the presence of repetitive behavior or restricted interests, language impairment, and social deficits. Mutations in genes encoding synaptic adhesion proteins such as the R451C missense mutation in neuroligin-3 (NL3) are associated with autism and impair synaptic transmission. We previously reported that NL3R451C mice, a well-established model of autism, have altered enteric neurons and GI dysfunction; however, whether the autism-associated R451C mutation alters the caecal enteric nervous system and immune function is unknown. We assessed for gross anatomical changes in the caecum and quantified the proportions of caecal submucosal and myenteric neurons in wild-type and NL3R451C mice using immunofluorescence. In the caecal patch, we assessed total cellular density as well as the density and morphology of Iba-1 labeled macrophages to identify whether the R451C mutation affects neuro-immune interactions. NL3R451C mice have significantly reduced caecal weight compared to wild-type mice, irrespective of background strain. Caecal weight is also reduced in mice lacking Neuroligin-3. NL3R451C caecal ganglia contain more neurons overall and increased numbers of Nitric Oxide (NO) producing neurons (labeled by Nitric Oxide Synthase; NOS) per ganglion in both the submucosal and myenteric plexus. Overall caecal patch cell density was unchanged however NL3R451C mice have an increased density of Iba-1 labeled enteric macrophages. Macrophages in NL3R451C were smaller and more spherical in morphology. Here, we identify changes in both the nervous system and immune system caused by an autism-associated mutation in Nlgn3 encoding the postsynaptic cell adhesion protein, Neuroligin-3. These findings provide further insights into the potential modulation of neural and immune pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samiha Sayed Sharna
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Suzanne Hosie
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Ashley E Franks
- School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Elisa L Hill-Yardin
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ballout J, Diener M. Interactions between rat submucosal neurons and mast cells are modified by cytokines and neurotransmitters. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 864:172713. [PMID: 31586631 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The role of mast cells during inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is discussed controversially. Whereas several studies report an increase in mast cell density during IBD, others found a decrease. Recently, we observed a reduced response to mast cell degranulation induced by antigen contact in a colitis model. As the effects of mast cell mediators on epithelial ion transport are mediated indirectly via stimulation of secretomotor neurons, we investigated in vitro whether proinflammatory cytokines change the response to mast cell degranulation. Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and a mix of proinflammatory cytokines caused an increase of short-circuit current (Isc) and tissue conductance in rat colon. Anion secretion induced by histamine was downregulated in the presence of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and the cytokine mix, whereas the response to the mast cell stimulator compound 48/80 was not changed significantly. In a coculture of rat submucosal ganglionic cells with a mast cell line (RBL-2H3), TNFα preincubation for 1 d increased the percentage of neurons responding to mast cell degranulation with an increase of the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration and enhanced the amplitude of this response. Consequently, the downregulation of epithelial secretion is compensated by an increased sensitivity of secretomotor neurons leading to a constant response of the epithelium to compound 48/80. Furthermore, enteric neurons can modify mast cell functions as nicotine inhibited the increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration of RBL-2H3 cells and the Isc evoked by compound 48/80. Consequently, these in vitro models deliver new insights into cellular interactions in the gut wall under inflammatory conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Ballout
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Diener
- Institute for Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Bódi N, Szalai Z, Bagyánszki M. Nitrergic Enteric Neurons in Health and Disease-Focus on Animal Models. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20082003. [PMID: 31022832 PMCID: PMC6515552 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20082003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitrergic enteric neurons are key players of the descending inhibitory reflex of intestinal peristalsis, therefore loss or damage of these neurons can contribute to developing gastrointestinal motility disturbances suffered by patients worldwide. There is accumulating evidence that the vulnerability of nitrergic enteric neurons to neuropathy is strictly region-specific and that the two main enteric plexuses display different nitrergic neuronal damage. Alterations both in the proportion of the nitrergic subpopulation and in the total number of enteric neurons suggest that modification of the neurochemical character or neuronal death occurs in the investigated gut segments. This review aims to summarize the gastrointestinal region and/or plexus-dependent pathological changes in the number of nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-containing neurons, the NO release and the cellular and subcellular expression of different NOS isoforms. Additionally, some of the underlying mechanisms associated with the nitrergic pathway in the background of different diseases, e.g., type 1 diabetes, chronic alcoholism, intestinal inflammation or ischaemia, will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolett Bódi
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Zita Szalai
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Mária Bagyánszki
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fornai M, van den Wijngaard RM, Antonioli L, Pellegrini C, Blandizzi C, de Jonge WJ. Neuronal regulation of intestinal immune functions in health and disease. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2018; 30:e13406. [PMID: 30058092 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.13406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nerve-mucosa interactions control various elements of gastrointestinal functions, including mucosal host defense, gut barrier function, and epithelial cell growth and differentiation. In both intestinal and extra-intestinal diseases, alterations of autonomic nerve activity have been observed to be concurrent with the disease course, such as in inflammatory and functional bowel diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. This is relevant as the extrinsic autonomic nervous system is increasingly recognized to modulate gut inflammatory responses. The molecular and cellular mechanisms through which the extrinsic and intrinsic nerve pathways may regulate digestive mucosal functions have been investigated in several pre-clinical and clinical studies. PURPOSE The present review focuses on the involvement of neural pathways in gastrointestinal disease, and addresses the current strategies to intervene with neuronal pathway as a means of treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Fornai
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R M van den Wijngaard
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - L Antonioli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Pellegrini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Blandizzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - W J de Jonge
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Reardon C, Murray K, Lomax AE. Neuroimmune Communication in Health and Disease. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:2287-2316. [PMID: 30109819 PMCID: PMC6170975 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00035.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune and nervous systems are tightly integrated, with each system capable of influencing the other to respond to infectious or inflammatory perturbations of homeostasis. Recent studies demonstrating the ability of neural stimulation to significantly reduce the severity of immunopathology and consequently reduce mortality have led to a resurgence in the field of neuroimmunology. Highlighting the tight integration of the nervous and immune systems, afferent neurons can be activated by a diverse range of substances from bacterial-derived products to cytokines released by host cells. While activation of vagal afferents by these substances dominates the literature, additional sensory neurons are responsive as well. It is becoming increasingly clear that although the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway has become the predominant model, a multitude of functional circuits exist through which neuronal messengers can influence immunological outcomes. These include pathways whereby efferent signaling occurs independent of the vagus nerve through sympathetic neurons. To receive input from the nervous system, immune cells including B and T cells, macrophages, and professional antigen presenting cells express specific neurotransmitter receptors that affect immune cell function. Specialized immune cell populations not only express neurotransmitter receptors, but express the enzymatic machinery required to produce neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, allowing them to act as signaling intermediaries. Although elegant experiments have begun to decipher some of these interactions, integration of these molecules, cells, and anatomy into defined neuroimmune circuits in health and disease is in its infancy. This review describes these circuits and highlights continued challenges and opportunities for the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin Reardon
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, California ; and Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Queen's University , Kingston, Ontario , Canada
| | - Kaitlin Murray
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, California ; and Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Queen's University , Kingston, Ontario , Canada
| | - Alan E Lomax
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, California ; and Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences and Department of Medicine, Queen's University , Kingston, Ontario , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Perera AP, Fernando R, Shinde T, Gundamaraju R, Southam B, Sohal SS, Robertson AAB, Schroder K, Kunde D, Eri R. MCC950, a specific small molecule inhibitor of NLRP3 inflammasome attenuates colonic inflammation in spontaneous colitis mice. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8618. [PMID: 29872077 PMCID: PMC5988655 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26775-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
MCC950 a potent, highly specific small molecule inhibitor of canonical and noncanonical activation of NLRP3 inflammasome has been evaluated in a multitude of NLRP3 driven inflammatory diseases. However, the effect of MCC950 on colonic inflammation has not yet been reported. In the present study we investigated the effect of MCC950 in a spontaneous chronic colitis mouse model Winnie, which mimics human ulcerative colitis. Oral administration of 40 mg/kg MCC950 commencing at Winnie week seven for three weeks significantly improved body weight gain, colon length, colon weight to body weight ratio, disease activity index and histopathological scores. MCC950 significantly suppressed release of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-18, IL1-α, IFNγ, TNF-α, IL6, IL17, chemokine MIP1a and Nitric Oxide in colonic explants. Moreover, MCC950 resulted in a significant decrease of IL-1β release and activation of caspase-1 in colonic explants and macrophage cells isolated from Winnie. Complete inhibition with MCC950 in Winnie colonic explants shows, for the first time, the contribution of inflammatory effects resulting exclusively from canonical and noncanonical NLRP3 inflammasome activation in colitis. Taken together, our results illustrate the efficacy of MCC950 in the treatment of murine ulcerative colitis and provides avenue for a potential novel therapeutic agent for human inflammatory bowel diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruchira Fernando
- Department of Pathology, Launceston General Hospital, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Tanvi Shinde
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Rohit Gundamaraju
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Benjamin Southam
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Avril A B Robertson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Kate Schroder
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Dale Kunde
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Stojanovska V, McQuade RM, Miller S, Nurgali K. Effects of Oxaliplatin Treatment on the Myenteric Plexus Innervation and Glia in the Murine Distal Colon. J Histochem Cytochem 2018; 66:723-736. [PMID: 29741434 DOI: 10.1369/0022155418774755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxaliplatin (platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent) is a first-line treatment of colorectal malignancies; its use associates with peripheral neuropathies and gastrointestinal side effects. These gastrointestinal dysfunctions might be due to toxic effects of oxaliplatin on the intestinal innervation and glia. Male Balb/c mice received intraperitoneal injections of sterile water or oxaliplatin (3 mg/kg/d) triweekly for 2 weeks. Colon tissues were collected for immunohistochemical assessment at day 14. The density of sensory, adrenergic, and cholinergic nerve fibers labeled with calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), respectively, was assessed within the myenteric plexus of the distal colon. The number and proportion of excitatory neurons immunoreactive (IR) against choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) were counted, and the density of glial subpopulations was determined by using antibodies specific for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and s100β protein. Oxaliplatin treatment induced significant reduction of sensory and adrenergic innervations, as well as the total number and proportion of ChAT-IR neurons, and GFAP-IR glia, but increased s100β expression within the myenteric plexus of the distal colon. Treatment with oxaliplatin significantly alters nerve fibers and glial cells in the colonic myenteric plexus, which could contribute to long-term gastrointestinal side effects following chemotherapeutic treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Stojanovska
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel M McQuade
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Miller
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine Western Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Stavely R, Fraser S, Sharma S, Rahman AA, Stojanovska V, Sakkal S, Apostolopoulos V, Bertrand P, Nurgali K. The Onset and Progression of Chronic Colitis Parallels Increased Mucosal Serotonin Release via Enterochromaffin Cell Hyperplasia and Downregulation of the Serotonin Reuptake Transporter. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2018; 24:1021-1034. [PMID: 29668991 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izy016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) has been linked with several inflammation-associated intestinal diseases, including ulcerative colitis (UC). The largest pool of 5-HT in the body is in enterochromaffin (EC) cells located throughout the intestinal tract. EC cells are mechanosensitive and detect noxious stimuli, inducing secretion of 5-HT, which plays an important role in enteric reflexes and immunomodulation. In this study, we evaluated intestinal 5-HT levels in the Winnie mouse model of spontaneous chronic colitis, which closely replicates UC. METHODS Real-time electrochemical recordings of 5-HT oxidation currents were obtained from ex vivo preparations of jejunum, ileum, proximal, and distal colon from Winnie (5-25 weeks old) and age matched C57BL/6 mice. EC cells were examined by immunohistochemistry, and the gene expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (5-HT synthesis) and the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) were determined by quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). RESULTS Compression-evoked and basal 5-HT concentrations were elevated in the distal and proximal colon of Winnie mice. EC cell hyperplasia and downregulation of SERT on the transcriptional level were identified as mechanisms underlying increased levels of 5-HT. Increase in mucosal 5-HT release was observed at the onset of disease at 7-14 weeks, confirmed by disease activity scores. Furthermore, increases in 5-HT levels and progression of disease activity correlated linearly with age, but not sex. CONCLUSIONS Our findings in the Winnie mouse model of spontaneous chronic colitis demonstrate for the first time that the onset and progression of chronic UC-like intestinal inflammation is associated with increased 5-HT levels in the colonic mucosa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhian Stavely
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Western Health
| | - Sarah Fraser
- Centre for Chronic Disease; College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shilpa Sharma
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Western Health
| | - Ahmed A Rahman
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Vanesa Stojanovska
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Monash Health Translation Precinct, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samy Sakkal
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vasso Apostolopoulos
- Centre for Chronic Disease; College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Bertrand
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University; Western Centre for Health, Research and Education, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells Program, Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science (AIMSS), Western Health
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Bellinger DL, Lorton D. Sympathetic Nerve Hyperactivity in the Spleen: Causal for Nonpathogenic-Driven Chronic Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases (IMIDs)? Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19041188. [PMID: 29652832 PMCID: PMC5979464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases (IMIDs) is a descriptive term coined for an eclectic group of diseases or conditions that share common inflammatory pathways, and for which there is no definitive etiology. IMIDs affect the elderly most severely, with many older individuals having two or more IMIDs. These diseases include, but are not limited to, type-1 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, chronic pulmonary disease, coronary heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmunity, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Sjőgren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. These diseases are ostensibly unrelated mechanistically, but increase in frequency with age and share chronic systemic inflammation, implicating major roles for the spleen. Chronic systemic and regional inflammation underlies the disease manifestations of IMIDs. Regional inflammation and immune dysfunction promotes targeted end organ tissue damage, whereas systemic inflammation increases morbidity and mortality by affecting multiple organ systems. Chronic inflammation and skewed dysregulated cell-mediated immune responses drive many of these age-related medical disorders. IMIDs are commonly autoimmune-mediated or suspected to be autoimmune diseases. Another shared feature is dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system and hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis. Here, we focus on dysautonomia. In many IMIDs, dysautonomia manifests as an imbalance in activity/reactivity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). These major autonomic pathways are essential for allostasis of the immune system, and regulating inflammatory processes and innate and adaptive immunity. Pathology in ANS is a hallmark and causal feature of all IMIDs. Chronic systemic inflammation comorbid with stress pathway dysregulation implicate neural-immune cross-talk in the etiology and pathophysiology of IMIDs. Using a rodent model of inflammatory arthritis as an IMID model, we report disease-specific maladaptive changes in β₂-adrenergic receptor (AR) signaling from protein kinase A (PKA) to mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways in the spleen. Beta₂-AR signal "shutdown" in the spleen and switching from PKA to G-coupled protein receptor kinase (GRK) pathways in lymph node cells drives inflammation and disease advancement. Based on these findings and the existing literature in other IMIDs, we present and discuss relevant literature that support the hypothesis that unresolvable immune stimulation from chronic inflammation leads to a maladaptive disease-inducing and perpetuating sympathetic response in an attempt to maintain allostasis. Since the role of sympathetic dysfunction in IMIDs is best studied in RA and rodent models of RA, this IMID is the primary one used to evaluate data relevant to our hypothesis. Here, we review the relevant literature and discuss sympathetic dysfunction as a significant contributor to the pathophysiology of IMIDs, and then discuss a novel target for treatment. Based on our findings in inflammatory arthritis and our understanding of common inflammatory process that are used by the immune system across all IMIDs, novel strategies to restore SNS homeostasis are expected to provide safe, cost-effective approaches to treat IMIDs, lower comorbidities, and increase longevity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denise L Bellinger
- Department of Pathology and Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
| | - Dianne Lorton
- College of Arts and Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44304, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Robinson AM, Rahman AA, Carbone SE, Randall-Demllo S, Filippone R, Bornstein JC, Eri R, Nurgali K. Alterations of colonic function in the Winnie mouse model of spontaneous chronic colitis. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2017; 312:G85-G102. [PMID: 27881401 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00210.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The Winnie mouse, carrying a missense mutation in Muc2, is a model for chronic intestinal inflammation demonstrating symptoms closely resembling inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Alterations to the immune environment, morphological structure, and innervation of Winnie mouse colon have been identified; however, analyses of intestinal transit and colonic functions have not been conducted. In this study, we investigated in vivo intestinal transit in radiographic studies and in vitro motility of the isolated colon in organ bath experiments. We compared neuromuscular transmission using conventional intracellular recording between distal colon of Winnie and C57BL/6 mice and smooth muscle contractions using force displacement transducers. Chronic inflammation in Winnie mice was confirmed by detection of lipocalin-2 in fecal samples over 4 wk and gross morphological damage to the colon. Colonic transit was faster in Winnie mice. Motility was altered including decreased frequency and increased speed of colonic migrating motor complexes and increased occurrence of short and fragmented contractions. The mechanisms underlying colon dysfunctions in Winnie mice included inhibition of excitatory and fast inhibitory junction potentials, diminished smooth muscle responses to cholinergic and nitrergic stimulation, and increased number of α-smooth muscle actin-immunoreactive cells. We conclude that diminished excitatory responses occur both prejunctionally and postjunctionally and reduced inhibitory purinergic responses are potentially a prejunctional event, while diminished nitrergic inhibitory responses are probably due to a postjunction mechanism in the Winnie mouse colon. Many of these changes are similar to disturbed motor functions in IBD patients indicating that the Winnie mouse is a model highly representative of human IBD. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to provide analyses of intestinal transit and whole colon motility in an animal model of spontaneous chronic colitis. We found that cholinergic and purinergic neuromuscular transmission, as well as the smooth muscle cell responses to cholinergic and nitrergic stimulation, is altered in the chronically inflamed Winnie mouse colon. The changes to intestinal transit and colonic function we identified in the Winnie mouse are similar to those seen in inflammatory bowel disease patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ainsley M Robinson
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ahmed A Rahman
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simona E Carbone
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarron Randall-Demllo
- University of Tasmania, School of Health Sciences, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia; and
| | - Rhiannon Filippone
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joel C Bornstein
- Department of Physiology, Melbourne University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- University of Tasmania, School of Health Sciences, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia; and
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia;
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fecal Microbiota and Metabolome in a Mouse Model of Spontaneous Chronic Colitis: Relevance to Human Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2016; 22:2767-2787. [PMID: 27824648 DOI: 10.1097/mib.0000000000000970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota may be involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the mechanisms underlying the role of the intestinal microbiome and metabolome in IBD onset and its alteration during active treatment and recovery remain unknown. Animal models of chronic intestinal inflammation with similar microbial and metabolomic profiles would enable investigation of these mechanisms and development of more effective treatments. Recently, the Winnie mouse model of colitis closely representing the clinical symptoms and characteristics of human IBD has been developed. In this study, we have analyzed fecal microbial and metabolomic profiles in Winnie mice and discussed their relevance to human IBD. METHODS The 16S rRNA gene was sequenced from fecal DNA of Winnie and C57BL/6 mice to define operational taxonomic units at ≥97% similarity threshold. Metabolomic profiling of the same fecal samples was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS Composition of the dominant microbiota was disturbed, and prominent differences were evident at all levels of the intestinal microbiome in fecal samples from Winnie mice, similar to observations in patients with IBD. Metabolomic profiling revealed that chronic colitis in Winnie mice upregulated production of metabolites and altered several metabolic pathways, mostly affecting amino acid synthesis and breakdown of monosaccharides to short chain fatty acids. CONCLUSIONS Significant dysbiosis in the Winnie mouse gut replicates many changes observed in patients with IBD. These results provide justification for the suitability of this model to investigate mechanisms underlying the role of intestinal microbiota and metabolome in the pathophysiology of IBD.
Collapse
|
31
|
Rahman AA, Robinson AM, Brookes SJH, Eri R, Nurgali K. Rectal prolapse in Winnie mice with spontaneous chronic colitis: changes in intrinsic and extrinsic innervation of the rectum. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 366:285-299. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-016-2465-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
32
|
Zádori ZS, Tóth VE, Fehér Á, Al-Khrasani M, Puskár Z, Kozsurek M, Timár J, Tábi T, Helyes Z, Hein L, Holzer P, Gyires K. Inhibition of α2A-Adrenoceptors Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Acute Intestinal Inflammation in Mice. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2016; 358:483-91. [PMID: 27418171 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.116.235101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been hypothesized that α2-adrenoceptors (α2-ARs) may be involved in the pathomechanism of colitis; however, the results are conflicting because both aggravation and amelioration of colonic inflammation have been described in response to α2-AR agonists. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the role of α2-ARs in acute murine colitis. The experiments were carried out in wild-type, α2A-, α2B-, and α2C-AR knockout (KO) C57BL/6 mice. Colitis was induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS, 2%); alpha2-AR ligands were injected i.p. The severity of colitis was determined both macroscopically and histologically. Colonic myeloperoxidase (MPO) and cytokine levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and proteome profiler array, respectively. The nonselective α2-AR agonist clonidine induced a modest aggravation of DSS-induced colitis. It accelerated the disease development and markedly enhanced the weight loss of animals, but did not influence the colon shortening, tissue MPO levels, or histologic score. Clonidine induced similar changes in α2B- and α2C-AR KO mice, whereas it failed to affect the disease activity index scores and caused only minor weight loss in α2A-AR KO animals. In contrast, selective inhibition of α2A-ARs by BRL 44408 significantly delayed the development of colitis; reduced the colonic levels of MPO and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 (CXCL2), CXCL13, and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor; and elevated that of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1. In this work, we report that activation of α2-ARs aggravates murine colitis, an effect mediated by the α2A-AR subtype, and selective inhibition of these receptors reduces the severity of gut inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán S Zádori
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Viktória E Tóth
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Ágnes Fehér
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Mahmoud Al-Khrasani
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Zita Puskár
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Márk Kozsurek
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Júlia Timár
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Tamás Tábi
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Zsuzsanna Helyes
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Lutz Hein
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Peter Holzer
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| | - Klára Gyires
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine (Z.S.Z., V.E.T., Á.F., M.A.-K., J.T., K.G.), Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, János Szentágothai Laboratory (Z.P., M.K.), and Department of Pharmacodynamics (T.T.), Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Szentagothai Research Centre and MTA-NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary (Z.H.); Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine and BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (L.H.); and Research Unit of Translational Neurogastroenterology, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria (P.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Stavely R, Robinson AM, Miller S, Boyd R, Sakkal S, Nurgali K. Human adult stem cells derived from adipose tissue and bone marrow attenuate enteric neuropathy in the guinea-pig model of acute colitis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 6:244. [PMID: 26652292 PMCID: PMC4674993 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-015-0231-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified as a viable treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). MSCs derived from bone marrow (BM-MSCs) have predominated in experimental models whereas the majority of clinical trials have used MSCs derived from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs), thus there is little consensus on the optimal tissue source. The therapeutic efficacies of these MSCs are yet to be compared in context of the underlying dysfunction of the enteric nervous system innervating the gastrointestinal tract concomitant with IBD. This study aims to characterise the in vitro properties of MSCs and compare their in vivo therapeutic potential for the treatment of enteric neuropathy associated with intestinal inflammation. Methods BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs were validated and characterised in vitro. In in vivo experiments, guinea-pigs received either 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene-sulfonate acid (TNBS) for the induction of colitis or sham treatment by enema. MSCs were administered at a dose of 1x106 cells via enema 3 hours after the induction of colitis. Colon tissues were collected 24 and 72 hours after TNBS administration to assess the level of inflammation and damage to the ENS. MSC migration to the myenteric plexus in vivo was elucidated by immunohistochemistry and in vitro using a modified Boyden chamber assay. Results Cells exhibited multipotency and a typical surface immunophenotype for validation as bona fide MSCs. In vitro characterisation revealed distinct differences in growth kinetics, clonogenicity and cell morphology between MSC types. In vivo, BM-MSCs were comparatively more effective than AT-MSCs in attenuating leukocyte infiltration and neuronal loss in the myenteric plexus. MSCs from both sources equally ameliorated body weight loss, gross morphological damage to the colon, changes in the neurochemical coding of neuronal subpopulations and the reduction in density of extrinsic and intrinsic nerve fibres innervating the colon. MSCs from both sources migrated to the myenteric plexus in in vivo colitis and in an in vitro assay. Conclusions These data from in vitro experiments suggest that AT-MSCs are ideal for cellular expansion. However, BM-MSCs were more therapeutic in the treatment of enteric neuropathy and plexitis. These characteristics should be considered when deciding on the MSC tissue source.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhian Stavely
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Ainsley M Robinson
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Sarah Miller
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Richard Boyd
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Samy Sakkal
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Kulmira Nurgali
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia. .,College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Western Centre for Health Research & Education, 176 Furlong Road, St Albans, 3021, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|