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Huang B, Liang S, Li X, Xie Z, Yang R, Sun B, Xue J, Li B, Wang S, Shi H, Shi Y. Postweaning intermittent sleep deprivation enhances defensive attack in adult female mice via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 130:110915. [PMID: 38104921 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110915] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Sleep is one of the most important physiological activities in life and promotes the growth and development of an individual. In modern society, sleep deprivation (SD), especially among adolescents, has become a common phenomenon. However, long-term SD severely affected adolescents' neurodevelopment leading to abnormal behavioral phenotypes. Clinical studies indicated that sleep problems caused increased aggressive behavior in adolescents. Aggressive behavior was subordinate to social behaviors, in which defensive attack was often the last line for survival. Meanwhile, increasing studies shown that gut microbiota regulated social behaviors by affecting specific brain regions via the gut-brain axis. However, whether postweaning intermittent SD is related to defensive attack in adulthood, and if so, whether it is mediated by the microbiota-gut-brain axis are still elusive. Combined with microbial sequencing and hippocampal metabolomics, the present study mainly investigated the long-term effects of postweaning intermittent SD on defensive attack in adult mice. Our study demonstrated that postweaning intermittent SD enhanced defensive attack and impaired long-term memory formation in adult female mice. Moreover, microbial sequencing and LC-MS analysis showed that postweaning intermittent SD altered the gut microbial composition and the hippocampal metabolic profile in female mice, respectively. Our attention has been drawn to the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway and related metabolites. In conclusion, our findings provide a new perspective on the relationship of early-life SD and defensive attack in adulthood, and also highlight the importance of sleep in early-life, especially in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boya Huang
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Shihao Liang
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Xinrui Li
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Ziyu Xie
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Binhuang Sun
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Jiping Xue
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Bingyu Li
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Haishui Shi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Research Unit of Digestive Tract Microecosystem Pharmacology and Toxicology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Nursing School, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050031, China.
| | - Yun Shi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Medical and Health Science, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Hebei Medicinal University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China.
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de Bartolomeis A, Vellucci L, Austin MC, De Simone G, Barone A. Rational and Translational Implications of D-Amino Acids for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia: From Neurobiology to the Clinics. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070909. [PMID: 35883465 PMCID: PMC9312470 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia has been conceptualized as a neurodevelopmental disorder with synaptic alterations and aberrant cortical–subcortical connections. Antipsychotics are the mainstay of schizophrenia treatment and nearly all share the common feature of dopamine D2 receptor occupancy, whereas glutamatergic abnormalities are not targeted by the presently available therapies. D-amino acids, acting as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) modulators, have emerged in the last few years as a potential augmentation strategy in those cases of schizophrenia that do not respond well to antipsychotics, a condition defined as treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), affecting almost 30–40% of patients, and characterized by serious cognitive deficits and functional impairment. In the present systematic review, we address with a direct and reverse translational perspective the efficacy of D-amino acids, including D-serine, D-aspartate, and D-alanine, in poor responders. The impact of these molecules on the synaptic architecture is also considered in the light of dendritic spine changes reported in schizophrenia and antipsychotics’ effect on postsynaptic density proteins. Moreover, we describe compounds targeting D-amino acid oxidase and D-aspartate oxidase enzymes. Finally, other drugs acting at NMDAR and proxy of D-amino acids function, such as D-cycloserine, sarcosine, and glycine, are considered in the light of the clinical burden of TRS, together with other emerging molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea de Bartolomeis
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-7463673 or +39-081-7463884 or +39-3662745592; Fax: +39-081-7462644
| | - Licia Vellucci
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Mark C. Austin
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Program, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA;
| | - Giuseppe De Simone
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Annarita Barone
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
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3
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D-aspartic Acid Supplementation Effects on Body Composition: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials on Trained Males. Asian J Sports Med 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/asjsm-120161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: D-Aspartic acid (DAA) is an amino acid found in the brain and reproductive system. Some investigations have reported beneficial effects of DAA on brain function and reproductive system health by increasing testosterone through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. However, its effect on body composition is unknown. Given testosterone's role in muscle growth, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of DAA supplementation on the body composition of trained males. Evidence Acquisition: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science (until 1 August 2021) were searched for this systematic review. Inclusion criteria assumed as clinical trials assessed the effect of DAA on body composition in trained males. After including articles by keywords, the articles were reviewed for meeting the eligibility criteria. Three independent researchers conducted the search and full-text review. Results: Among 134 articles located during the primary search, five articles (47 interventions and 43 controls) were included in the study based on eligibility criteria. All included clinical trials had a low risk of bias. A review of the relevant literature concludes that different doses of DAA (three grams, six grams, 7.12, and 12 grams) in different intervention periods (two weeks, four weeks, and 12 weeks) have no effects on body composition in trained males. Conclusions: DAA supplementation is a low-level booster of testosterone and has no significant effect on the testosterone level in professional male athletes, and cannot alter the body composition.
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Alam MM, Asiri AM, Hasnat MA, Rahman MM. Detection of L-Aspartic Acid with Ag-Doped ZnO Nanosheets Using Differential Pulse Voltammetry. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:379. [PMID: 35735527 PMCID: PMC9221195 DOI: 10.3390/bios12060379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Here, a sensitive voltametric electrochemical sensor probe was fabricated to reliably trace the detection of L-aspartic acid in phosphate-buffered medium using a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) layered with a film of wet-chemically prepared Ag2O-doped ZnO nanosheets (NSs). EDS, FESEM, XPS, and X-ray diffraction analyses were implemented as characterizing tools of prepared NSs to confirm the structural and compositional morphology, binding energies of existing atoms, and the crystallinity of synthesized NSs. The differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was applied to the trace detection of L-aspartic acid, and exhibited a wide detection range of 15.0~105.0 µM, a limit of detection (3.5 ± 0.15 µM), and good sensitivity (0.2689 µA µM-1 cm-2). Besides these the precious reproducibility, stability, and efficient responses were perceived from the voltametric analysis of aspartic acid. Moreover, the proposed aspartic acid was subjected to experiments to potentially detect aspartic acid in real biological samples. Therefore, the development of an enzyme-free sensor by applying this method will be a smart technical approach in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Mahmud Alam
- Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials Research (CEAMR), King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.M.A.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Abdullah M. Asiri
- Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials Research (CEAMR), King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.M.A.); (A.M.A.)
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad A. Hasnat
- Electrochemistry & Catalysis Research Laboratory (ECRL), Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3100, Bangladesh;
| | - Mohammed M. Rahman
- Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials Research (CEAMR), King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.M.A.); (A.M.A.)
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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Piubelli L, Murtas G, Rabattoni V, Pollegioni L. The Role of D-Amino Acids in Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 80:475-492. [PMID: 33554911 DOI: 10.3233/jad-201217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the main cause of dementia worldwide, is characterized by a complex and multifactorial etiology. In large part, excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system is mediated by glutamate and its receptors are involved in synaptic plasticity. The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which require the agonist glutamate and a coagonist such as glycine or the D-enantiomer of serine for activation, play a main role here. A second D-amino acid, D-aspartate, acts as agonist of NMDA receptors. D-amino acids, present in low amounts in nature and long considered to be of bacterial origin, have distinctive functions in mammals. In recent years, alterations in physiological levels of various D-amino acids have been linked to various pathological states, ranging from chronic kidney disease to neurological disorders. Actually, the level of NMDA receptor signaling must be balanced to promote neuronal survival and prevent neurodegeneration: this signaling in AD is affected mainly by glutamate availability and modulation of the receptor's functions. Here, we report the experimental findings linking D-serine and D-aspartate, through NMDA receptor modulation, to AD and cognitive functions. Interestingly, AD progression has been also associated with the enzymes related to D-amino acid metabolism as well as with glucose and serine metabolism. Furthermore, the D-serine and D-/total serine ratio in serum have been recently proposed as biomarkers of AD progression. A greater understanding of the role of D-amino acids in excitotoxicity related to the pathogenesis of AD will facilitate novel therapeutic treatments to cure the disease and improve life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Piubelli
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulia Murtas
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Valentina Rabattoni
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Loredano Pollegioni
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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6
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Zachar G, Kemecsei R, Papp SM, Wéber K, Kisparti T, Tyler T, Gáspár G, Balázsa T, Csillag A. D-Aspartate consumption selectively promotes intermediate-term spatial memory and the expression of hippocampal NMDA receptor subunits. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6166. [PMID: 33731750 PMCID: PMC7969773 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85360-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
d-Aspartate (d-Asp) and d-serine (d-Ser) have been proposed to promote early-phase LTP in vitro and to enhance spatial memory in vivo. Here, we investigated the behavioural effects of chronic consumption of d-Asp and d-Ser on spatial learning of mice together with the expression of NMDA receptors. We also studied the alterations of neurogenesis by morphometric analysis of bromo-deoxyuridine incorporating and doublecortin expressing cells in the hippocampus. Our results specify a time period (3–4 h post-training), within which the animals exposed to d-Asp (but not d-Ser) show a more stable memory during retrieval. The cognitive improvement is due to elimination of transient bouts of destabilization and reconsolidation of memory, rather than to enhanced acquisition. d-Asp also protracted reversal learning probably due to reduced plasticity. Expression of GluN1 and GluN2A subunits was elevated in the hippocampus of d-Asp (but not d-Ser) treated mice. d-Asp or d-Ser did not alter the proliferation of neuronal progenitor cells in the hippocampus. The observed learning-related changes evoked by d-Asp are unlikely to be due to enhanced proliferation and recruitment of new neurones. Rather, they are likely associated with an upregulation of NMDA receptors, as well as a reorganization of receptor subunit assemblies in existing hippocampal/dentate neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergely Zachar
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary.
| | - Róbert Kemecsei
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Márta Papp
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Katalin Wéber
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kisparti
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Teadora Tyler
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Gábor Gáspár
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Tamás Balázsa
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - András Csillag
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
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Simultaneous Measurement of Amino Acid Enantiomers in Aged Mouse Brain Samples by LC/MS/MS Combined with Derivatization Using N
α-(5-Fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-l-leucinamide (l-FDLA). Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11010057. [PMID: 33467775 PMCID: PMC7829926 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
d-amino acids have distinct roles from their l-enantiomer. In particular, some d-amino acids function as agonists or antagonists of neuronal receptors and are involved in higher brain functions. Thus, it is important to precisely measure the levels of these amino acid enantiomers in cells and tissues. Various quantification methods have been developed for measurements of chiral amino acids. However, each method has advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, measuring the amino acid enantiomers in crude biological samples requires a higher selectivity. In this study, we developed a quantification method for amino acid enantiomers using derivatization with Nα-(5-Fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-l-leucinamide (l-FDLA) followed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) with a conventional reversed-phase column. We simultaneously identified 10 chiral amino acids. Furthermore, we applied this method to investigate murine tissue samples and examined the effect of aging on the amino acid levels in aged brain regions. We found that aging decreased the levels of both d-serine and d-aspartate in the hippocampus. In addition, d-Phenylalanine in the thalamus significantly increased with age. In conclusion, our method is suitable for the quantification of the d-amino acids in crude biological samples and may contribute to elucidating the biological roles of chiral amino acids.
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Usiello A, Di Fiore MM, De Rosa A, Falvo S, Errico F, Santillo A, Nuzzo T, Chieffi Baccari G. New Evidence on the Role of D-Aspartate Metabolism in Regulating Brain and Endocrine System Physiology: From Preclinical Observations to Clinical Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8718. [PMID: 33218144 PMCID: PMC7698810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The endogenous amino acids serine and aspartate occur at high concentrations in free D-form in mammalian organs, including the central nervous system and endocrine glands. D-serine (D-Ser) is largely localized in the forebrain structures throughout pre and postnatal life. Pharmacologically, D-Ser plays a functional role by acting as an endogenous coagonist at N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). Less is known about the role of free D-aspartate (D-Asp) in mammals. Notably, D-Asp has a specific temporal pattern of occurrence. In fact, free D-Asp is abundant during prenatal life and decreases greatly after birth in concomitance with the postnatal onset of D-Asp oxidase expression, which is the only enzyme known to control endogenous levels of this molecule. Conversely, in the endocrine system, D-Asp concentrations enhance after birth during its functional development, thereby suggesting an involvement of the amino acid in the regulation of hormone biosynthesis. The substantial binding affinity for the NMDAR glutamate site has led us to investigate the in vivo implications of D-Asp on NMDAR-mediated responses. Herein we review the physiological function of free D-Asp and of its metabolizing enzyme in regulating the functions of the brain and of the neuroendocrine system based on recent genetic and pharmacological human and animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Usiello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
| | - Arianna De Rosa
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Napoli, Italy;
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
| | - Francesco Errico
- Dipartimento di Agraria, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Università, 100, 80055 Portici, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
| | - Tommaso Nuzzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
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Seckler JM, Lewis SJ. Advances in D-Amino Acids in Neurological Research. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197325. [PMID: 33023061 PMCID: PMC7582301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
D-amino acids have been known to exist in the human brain for nearly 40 years, and they continue to be a field of active study to today. This review article aims to give a concise overview of the recent advances in D-amino acid research as they relate to the brain and neurological disorders. This work has largely been focused on modulation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and its relationship to Alzheimer’s disease and Schizophrenia, but there has been a wealth of novel research which has elucidated a novel role for several D-amino acids in altering brain chemistry in a neuroprotective manner. D-amino acids which have no currently known activity in the brain but which have active derivatives will also be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Seckler
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Stephen J. Lewis
- Department Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
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10
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Errico F, Cuomo M, Canu N, Caputo V, Usiello A. New insights on the influence of free d-aspartate metabolism in the mammalian brain during prenatal and postnatal life. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2020; 1868:140471. [PMID: 32561430 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2020.140471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Free d-aspartate is abundant in the mammalian embryonic brain. However, following the postnatal onset of the catabolic d-aspartate oxidase (DDO) activity, cerebral d-aspartate levels drastically decrease, remaining constantly low throughout life. d-Aspartate stimulates both glutamatergic NMDA receptors (NMDARs) and metabotropic Glu5 receptors. In rodents, short-term d-aspartate exposure increases spine density and synaptic plasticity, and improves cognition. Conversely, persistently high d-Asp levels produce NMDAR-dependent neurotoxic effects, leading to precocious neuroinflammation and cell death. These pieces of evidence highlight the dichotomous impact of d-aspartate signaling on NMDAR-dependent processes and, in turn, unveil a neuroprotective role for DDO in preventing the detrimental effects of excessive d-aspartate stimulation during aging. Here, we will focus on the in vivo influence of altered d-aspartate metabolism on the modulation of glutamatergic functions and its involvement in translational studies. Finally, preliminary data on the role of embryonic d-aspartate in the mouse brain will also be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Errico
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", 80055 Portici, Italy.
| | - Mariella Cuomo
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80145 Naples, Italy; Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Nadia Canu
- Department of System Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", 00133 Rome, Italy; Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (CNR), 00015, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Caputo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Usiello
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80145 Naples, Italy; Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
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11
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Prenatal expression of d-aspartate oxidase causes early cerebral d-aspartate depletion and influences brain morphology and cognitive functions at adulthood. Amino Acids 2020; 52:597-617. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-020-02839-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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12
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Kobayashi J. d-Amino Acids and Lactic Acid Bacteria. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7120690. [PMID: 31842512 PMCID: PMC6955911 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7120690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteins are composed of l-amino acids except for glycine, which bears no asymmetric carbon atom. Accordingly, researchers have studied the function and metabolism of l-amino acids in living organisms but have paid less attention to the presence and roles of their d-enantiomers. However, with the recent developments in analytical techniques, the presence of various d-amino acids in the cells of various organisms and the importance of their roles have been revealed. For example, d-serine (d-Ser) and d-aspartate (d-Asp) act as neurotransmitters and hormone-like substances, respectively, in humans, whereas some kinds of d-amino acids act as a biofilm disassembly factor in bacteria. Interestingly, lactic acid bacteria produce various kinds of d-amino acids during fermentation, and many d-amino acids taste sweet, compared with the corresponding l-enantiomers. The influence of d-amino acids on human health and beauty has been reported in recent years. These facts suggest that the d-amino acids produced by lactic acid bacteria are important in terms of the taste and function of lactic-acid-fermented foods. Against this background, unique d-amino-acid-metabolizing enzymes have been searched for and observed in lactic acid bacteria. This review summarizes and introduces the importance of various d-amino acids in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyumpei Kobayashi
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodaicho, Nada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 657-8501, Japan
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de Rosa V, Secondo A, Pannaccione A, Ciccone R, Formisano L, Guida N, Crispino R, Fico A, Polishchuk R, D'Aniello A, Annunziato L, Boscia F. D-Aspartate treatment attenuates myelin damage and stimulates myelin repair. EMBO Mol Med 2019; 11:emmm.201809278. [PMID: 30559305 PMCID: PMC6328990 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.201809278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate signaling may orchestrate oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) development and myelin regeneration through the activation of glutamate receptors at OPC‐neuron synapses. D‐Aspartate is a D‐amino acid exerting modulatory actions at glutamatergic synapses. Chronic administration of D‐Aspartate has been proposed as therapeutic treatment in diseases related to myelin dysfunction and NMDA receptors hypofunction, including schizophrenia and cognitive deficits. Here, we show, by using an in vivo remyelination model, that administration of D‐Aspartate during remyelination improved motor coordination, accelerated myelin recovery, and significantly increased the number of small‐diameter myelinated axons. Chronically administered during demyelination, D‐Aspartate also attenuated myelin loss and inflammation. Interestingly, D‐Aspartate exposure stimulated OPC maturation and accelerated developmental myelination in organotypic cerebellar slices. D‐Aspartate promoting effects on OPC maturation involved the activation of glutamate transporters, AMPA and NMDA receptors, and the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger NCX3. While blocking NMDA or NCX3 significantly prevented D‐Aspartate‐induced [Ca2+]i oscillations, blocking AMPA and glutamate transporters prevented both the initial and oscillatory [Ca2+]i response as well as D‐Aspartate‐induced inward currents in OPC. Our findings reveal that D‐Aspartate treatment may represent a novel strategy for promoting myelin recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria de Rosa
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Agnese Secondo
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Pannaccione
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Roselia Ciccone
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Formisano
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Crispino
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Naples, Italy
| | - Annalisa Fico
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati-Traverso", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Roman Polishchuk
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Naples, Italy
| | - Antimo D'Aniello
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Boscia
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, School of Medicine, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Nicoletti CG, Monteleone F, Marfia GA, Usiello A, Buttari F, Centonze D, Mori F. Oral D-Aspartate enhances synaptic plasticity reserve in progressive multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2019; 26:304-311. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458519828294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Synaptic plasticity reserve correlates with clinical recovery after a relapse in relapsing–remitting forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is significantly compromised in patients with progressive forms of MS. These findings suggest that progression of disability in MS is linked to reduced synaptic plasticity reserve. D-Aspartate, an endogenous aminoacid approved for the use in humans as a dietary supplement, enhances synaptic plasticity in mice. Objective: To test whether D-Aspartate oral intake increases synaptic plasticity reserve in progressive MS patients. Methods: A total of 31 patients affected by a progressive form of MS received either single oral daily doses of D-Aspartate 2660 mg or placebo for 4 weeks. Synaptic plasticity reserve and trans-synaptic cortical excitability were measured through transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocols before and after D-Aspartate. Results: Both TMS-induced long-term potentiation (LTP), intracortical facilitation (ICF) and short-interval ICF increased after 2 and 4 weeks of D-Aspartate but not after placebo, suggesting an enhancement of synaptic plasticity reserve and increased trans-synaptic glutamatergic transmission. Conclusion: Daily oral D-Aspartate 2660 mg for 4 weeks enhances synaptic plasticity reserve in patients with progressive MS, opening the path to further studies assessing its clinical effects on disability progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina G Nicoletti
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Monteleone
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Girolama A Marfia
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Usiello
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, The Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy/ Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, CEINGE —Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Diego Centonze
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy/ Unit of Neurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesco Mori
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy/ Unit of Neurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
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Mo TT, Dai H, Du H, Zhang RY, Chai KP, An Y, Chen JJ, Wang JK, Chen ZJ, Chen CZ, Jiang XJ, Tang R, Wang LP, Tan Q, Tang P, Miao XY, Meng P, Zhang LB, Cheng SQ, Peng B, Tu BJ, Han TL, Xia YY, Baker PN. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry based metabolomics profile of hippocampus and cerebellum in mice after chronic arsenic exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2019; 34:103-111. [PMID: 30375170 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Intake of arsenic (As) via drinking water has been a serious threat to global public health. Though there are numerous reports of As neurotoxicity, its pathogenesis mechanisms remain vague especially its chronic effects on metabolic network. Hippocampus is a renowned area in relation to learning and memory, whilst recently, cerebellum is argued to be involved with process of cognition. Therefore, the study aimed to explore metabolomics alternations in these two areas after chronic As exposure, with the purpose of further illustrating details of As neurotoxicity. Twelve 3-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were divided into two groups, receiving deionized drinking water (control group) or 50 mg/L of sodium arsenite (via drinking water) for 24 weeks. Learning and memory abilities were tested by Morris water maze (MWM) test. Pathological and morphological changes of hippocampus and cerebellum were captured via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Metabolic alterations were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). MWM test confirmed impairments of learning and memory abilities of mice after chronic As exposure. Metabolomics identifications indicated that tyrosine increased and aspartic acid (Asp) decreased simultaneously in both hippocampus and cerebellum. Intermediates (succinic acid) and indirect involved components of tricarboxylic acid cycle (proline, cysteine, and alanine) were found declined in cerebellum, indicating disordered energy metabolism. Our findings suggest that these metabolite alterations are related to As-induced disorders of amino acids and energy metabolism, which might therefore, play an important part in mechanisms of As neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Mo
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Dai
- Department of Public Health, Guiyang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, China
| | - Hang Du
- Center of Experimental Medicine, Chongqing Municipal Hospital for Prevention and Control of Occupational Diseases, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui-Yuan Zhang
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ke-Ping Chai
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yao An
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-Ji Chen
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jun-Ke Wang
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zi-Jin Chen
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng-Zhi Chen
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue-Jun Jiang
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rong Tang
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Ping Wang
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiang Tan
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Tang
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin-Yu Miao
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pan Meng
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Long-Bin Zhang
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shu-Qun Cheng
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Peng
- Department of Statistics, School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bai-Jie Tu
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting-Li Han
- The Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- China-Canada-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yin-Yin Xia
- School of Public Health and Management, Research Center for Medicine and Social Development, Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- China-Canada-New Zealand Joint Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Philip N Baker
- College of Medicine, Biological Sciences and Psychology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
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16
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SM S, HN S, NA E, AS H. Curative role of pantothenic acid in brain damage of gamma irradiated rats. Indian J Clin Biochem 2018; 33:314-321. [PMID: 30072831 PMCID: PMC6052731 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-017-0683-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Radiation induced brain damage is associated with impairment of mitochondrial functions, variations in the level of neurotransmitters, and oxidative stress. Mitochondrial function is closely linked to the level of neurotransmitters since the precursors are supplied by the Kreb's cycle intermediates. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of pantothenic acid, an essential component in the synthesis of Coenzyme A (CoA), on the activity of the Krebs cycle enzymes, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (α-KGDH), and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH); the level of aspartic, glutamic and GABA; the activity of transaminases, and oxidative stress, in the cerebrum of γ-irradiated rats. Pantothenic acid (26 mg/Kg) was orally administered to the rats, 2 h after irradiation and during the following 5 days. Animals were sacrificed the 7th day post-irradiation. The exposure of male albino rats to γ-rays (5 Gy) has triggered oxidative stress notified by a significant elevation in the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), an end product of lipid peroxidation, associated to a significant decrease in the content of phospholipids, and the antioxidant compound glutathione (GSH). The activity of IDH, α-KGDH, and SDH, has significantly decreased, while the level of aspartic, glutamic and GABA has significantly increased. In parallel to these changes, the activity of alanine and aspartate transaminase has significantly increased, compared to their values in the control rats. Pantothenic acid treatment, has significantly attenuated oxidative stress; enhanced the activity of IDH, α-KGDH, and SDH; minimized the increase in the level of amino acids and the activity of transaminases, compared to their values in the cerebrum of irradiated rats. In conclusion, pantothenic acid could improve the level of neurotransmitters amino acids, which depends on the enzymatic activities of Krebs cycle and linked to oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shedid SM
- Department of Radiation Biology, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Atomic Energy Authority, 3 Ahmed El-Zomor, Al Manteqah Ath Thamenah, Nasr City, Cairo Governorate 11787 Egypt
| | - Saada HN
- Department of Radiation Biology, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Atomic Energy Authority, 3 Ahmed El-Zomor, Al Manteqah Ath Thamenah, Nasr City, Cairo Governorate 11787 Egypt
| | - Eltahawy NA
- Department of Radiation Biology, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Atomic Energy Authority, 3 Ahmed El-Zomor, Al Manteqah Ath Thamenah, Nasr City, Cairo Governorate 11787 Egypt
| | - Hammad AS
- Department of Radiation Biology, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Atomic Energy Authority, 3 Ahmed El-Zomor, Al Manteqah Ath Thamenah, Nasr City, Cairo Governorate 11787 Egypt
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Kitamura A, Hojo Y, Ikeda M, Karakawa S, Kuwahara T, Kim J, Soma M, Kawato S, Tsurugizawa T. Ingested d-Aspartate Facilitates the Functional Connectivity and Modifies Dendritic Spine Morphology in Rat Hippocampus. Cereb Cortex 2018; 29:2499-2508. [DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhy120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Kitamura
- Institute for Innovation, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Suzuki-cho 1-1, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hojo
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Muneki Ikeda
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Pharma-Science, Teikyo University, Kaga 2-11-1, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sachise Karakawa
- Institute for Innovation, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Suzuki-cho 1-1, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Tomomi Kuwahara
- Institute for Innovation, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Suzuki-cho 1-1, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Jonghyuk Kim
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Pharma-Science, Teikyo University, Kaga 2-11-1, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mika Soma
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Pharma-Science, Teikyo University, Kaga 2-11-1, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Suguru Kawato
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Faculty of Pharma-Science, Teikyo University, Kaga 2-11-1, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan
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Abstract
Sleepiness and cardiovascular disease share common molecular pathways; thus, metabolic risk factors for sleepiness may also predict cardiovascular disease risk. Daytime sleepiness predicts mortality and cardiovascular disease, although the mechanism is unidentified. This study explored the associations between subjective sleepiness and metabolite concentrations in human blood plasma within the oxidative and inflammatory pathways, in order to identify mechanisms that may contribute to sleepiness and cardiovascular disease risk. METHODS An exploratory case-control sample of 36 subjects, categorized based on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) questionnaire as sleepy (ESS ≥ 10) or non-sleepy (ESS < 10), was recruited among subjects undergoing an overnight sleep study for suspected sleep apnea at the University of Pennsylvania Sleep Center. The average age was 42.4 ± 10.5 years, the mean body mass index (BMI) was 40.0 ± 9.36 kg/m2, median Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) was 8.2 (IQR: 2.5-26.5), and 52% were male. Fasting morning blood plasma samples were collected after an overnight sleep study. Biomarkers were explored in subjects with sleepiness versus those without using the multiple linear regression adjusting for age, BMI, smoking, Apnea Hypopnea Index (sleep apnea severity), study cohort, and hypertension. RESULTS The level of choline is significantly lower (P = 0.003) in sleepy subjects (N = 18; mean plasma choline concentration of 8.19 ± 2.62 μmol/L) compared with non-sleepy subjects (N = 18; mean plasma choline concentration of 9.14 ± 2.25 μmol/L). Other markers with suggestive differences (P < 0.1) include isovalerylcarnitine, Alpha-Amino apidipic acid, Spingosine 1 Phosphate, Aspartic Acid, Propionylcarnitine, and Ceramides (fatty acids; C14-C16 and C-18). CONCLUSION This pilot study is the first to show that lower levels of plasma choline metabolites are associated with sleepiness. Further exploration of choline and other noted metabolites and their associations with sleepiness will guide targeted symptom management.
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Zachar G, Jakó T, Vincze I, Wagner Z, Tábi T, Bálint E, Mezey S, Szökő É, Csillag A. Age-related and function-dependent regional alterations of free L- and D-aspartate in postembryonic chick brain. ACTA BIOLOGICA HUNGARICA 2018; 69:1-15. [PMID: 29575913 DOI: 10.1556/018.68.2018.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
D-aspartate (D-Asp) modulates adult neural plasticity and embryonic brain development by promoting cell proliferation, survival and differentiation. Here, developmental changes of the excitatory amino acids (EAAs) L-Glu, L-Asp and D-Asp were determined during the first postembryonic days, a time window for early learning, in selected brain regions of domestic chickens after chiral separation and capillary electrophoresis. Extracellular concentration (ECC) of EAAs was measured in microdialysis samples from freely moving chicks. ECC of D-Asp (but not L-EAAs) decreased during the first week of age, with no considerable regional or learning-related variation. ECC of L-Asp and L-Glu (but not of D-Asp) were elevated in the mSt/Ac in response to a rewarding stimulus, suggesting importance of Asp-Glu co-release in synaptic plasticity of basal ganglia. Potassium-evoked release of D-Asp, with a protracted transient, was also demonstrated. D-Asp constitutes greater percentage of total aspartate in the extracellular space than in whole tissue extracts, thus the bulk of D-Asp detected in tissue appears in the extracellular space. Conversely, only a fraction of tissue L-EAAs can be detected in extracellular space. The lack of changes in tissue D-Asp following avoidance learning indicates a tonic, rather than phasic, mechanism in the neuromodulatory action of this amino acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergely Zachar
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and EmbryologySemmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 58, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Jakó
- Department of PharmacodynamicsSemmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Vincze
- Department of PharmacodynamicsSemmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Wagner
- Department of PharmacodynamicsSemmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Tábi
- Department of PharmacodynamicsSemmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Bálint
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and EmbryologySemmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 58, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Mezey
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and EmbryologySemmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 58, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Éva Szökő
- Department of PharmacodynamicsSemmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Csillag
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and EmbryologySemmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 58, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary
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20
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Errico F, Nuzzo T, Carella M, Bertolino A, Usiello A. The Emerging Role of Altered d-Aspartate Metabolism in Schizophrenia: New Insights From Preclinical Models and Human Studies. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:559. [PMID: 30459655 PMCID: PMC6232865 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Besides d-serine, another d-amino acid with endogenous occurrence in the mammalian brain, d-aspartate, has been recently shown to influence NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-mediated transmission. d-aspartate is present in the brain at extracellular level in nanomolar concentrations, binds to the agonist site of NMDARs and activates this subclass of glutamate receptors. Along with its direct effect on NMDARs, d-aspartate can also evoke considerable l-glutamate release in specific brain areas through the presynaptic activation of NMDA, AMPA/kainate and mGlu5 receptors. d-aspartate is enriched in the embryonic brain of rodents and humans and its concentration strongly decreases after birth, due to the post-natal expression of the catabolising enzyme d-aspartate oxidase (DDO). Based on the hypothesis of NMDAR hypofunction in schizophrenia pathogenesis, recent preclinical and clinical studies suggested a relationship between perturbation of d-aspartate metabolism and this psychiatric disorder. Consistently, neurophysiological and behavioral characterization of Ddo knockout (Ddo -/-) and d-aspartate-treated mice highlighted that abnormally higher endogenous d-aspartate levels significantly increase NMDAR-mediated synaptic plasticity, neuronal spine density and memory. Remarkably, increased d-aspartate levels influence schizophrenia-like phenotypes in rodents, as indicated by improved fronto-hippocampal connectivity, attenuated prepulse inhibition deficits and reduced activation of neuronal circuitry induced by phencyclidine exposure. In healthy humans, a genetic polymorphism associated with reduced prefrontal DDO gene expression predicts changes in prefrontal phenotypes including greater gray matter volume and enhanced functional activity during working memory. Moreover, neurochemical detections in post-mortem brain of schizophrenia-affected patients have shown significantly reduced d-aspartate content in prefrontal regions, associated with increased DDO mRNA expression or DDO enzymatic activity. Overall, these findings suggest a possible involvement of dysregulated embryonic d-aspartate metabolism in schizophrenia pathophysiology and, in turn, highlight the potential use of free d-aspartate supplementation as a new add-on therapy for treating the cognitive symptoms of this mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Errico
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Portici, Italy
| | - Tommaso Nuzzo
- Translational Neuroscience Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Massimo Carella
- Translational Neuroscience Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bertolino
- Group of Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Usiello
- Laboratory of Behavioural Neuroscience, Ceinge Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy.,Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Università Degli Studi Della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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Di Fiore MM, Santillo A, Falvo S, Chieffi Baccari G, Venditti M, Di Giacomo Russo F, Lispi M, D'Aniello A. Sex hormone levels in the brain of d-aspartate-treated rats. C R Biol 2017; 341:9-15. [PMID: 29203165 DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
d-Aspartate (d-Asp) is an endogenous amino acid present in the central nervous system and endocrine glands of various animal taxa. d-Asp is implicated in neurotransmission, physiology of learning, and memory processes. In gonads, it plays a crucial role in sex hormone synthesis. We have investigated the effects of chronic (30 days d-Asp drinking solution) and acute (i.p. injection of 2μmol/g bw d-Asp) treatments on sex steroid synthesis in rat brain. Furthermore, to verify the direct effect of d-Asp on neurosteroidogenic enzyme activities, brain homogenates were incubated with different substrates (cholesterol, progesterone, or testosterone) with or without the addition of d-Asp. Enzyme activities were measured by evaluating the in vitro conversion rate of (i) cholesterol to progesterone, testosterone, and 17β-estradiol, (ii) progesterone to testosterone and 17β-estradiol, (iii) testosterone to 17β-estradiol. We found that d-Asp oral administration produced an increase of approximately 40% in progesterone, 110% in testosterone, and 35% in 17β-estradiol. Similarly, the results of the acute experiment showed that at 30min after d-Asp treatment, the progesterone, testosterone, and 17β-estradiol levels increased by 29-35%, and at 8h they further increased by a 100% increment. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the addition of d-Asp to brain homogenate+substrate induces a significant increase in progesterone, testosterone and 17β-estradiol suggesting that the amino acid upregulates the local activity of steroidogenic enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Di Giacomo Russo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Monica Lispi
- Medical Affair Department Fertility TA, Merck-Serono SAS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antimo D'Aniello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; Department of Neurobiology and Comparative Physiology, Zoological Station "Anthon Dohrn", Naples, Italy.
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22
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Afraei S, D’Aniello A, Sedaghat R, Ekhtiari P, Azizi G, Tabrizian N, Magliozzi L, Aghazadeh Z, Mirshafiey A. Therapeutic effects of D-aspartate in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. J Food Drug Anal 2017; 25:699-708. [PMID: 28911655 PMCID: PMC9328824 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfda.2016.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an animal model of multiple sclerosis. EAE is mainly mediated by adaptive and innate immune responses that leads to an inflammatory demyelization and axonal damage. The aim of the present research was to examine the therapeutic efficacy of D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) on a mouse EAE model. EAE induction was performed in female C57BL/6 mice by myelin 40 oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (35-55) in a complete Freund's adjuvant emulsion, and D-Asp was used to test its efficiency in the reduction of EAE. During the course of study, clinical evaluation was assessed, and on Day 21, post-immunization blood samples were taken from the heart of mice for the evaluation of interleukin 6 and other chemical molecules. The mice were sacrificed, and their brain and cerebellum were removed for histological analysis. Our findings indicated that D-Asp had beneficial effects on EAE by attenuation in the severity and delay in the onset of the disease. Histological analysis showed that treatment with D-Asp can reduce inflammation. Moreover, in D-Asp-treated mice, the serum level of interleukin 6 was significantly lower than that in control animals, whereas the total antioxidant capacity was significantly higher. The data indicates that D-Asp possess neuroprotective property to prevent the onset of the multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Afraei
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran,
Iran
| | - Antimo D’Aniello
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Zoological Station of Naples “Anton Dohrn”, Villa Comunale, Napoli,
Italy
| | - Reza Sedaghat
- Departments of Anatomy and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran,
Iran
| | - Parvin Ekhtiari
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran,
Iran
| | - Gholamreza Azizi
- Imam Hassan Mojtaba Hospital, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj,
Iran
- Research Centre for Immunodeficiencies, Pediatrics Centre of Excellence, Children's Medical Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran,
Iran
| | - Nakisa Tabrizian
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Kish International Campus, University of Tehran, Tehran,
Iran
| | - Laura Magliozzi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples, “Federico II” Via Cinthia, MSA Campus, bldg. 7, Naples,
Italy
| | - Zahra Aghazadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran,
Iran
| | - Abbas Mirshafiey
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran,
Iran
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23
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Weatherly CA, Du S, Parpia C, Santos PT, Hartman AL, Armstrong DW. d-Amino Acid Levels in Perfused Mouse Brain Tissue and Blood: A Comparative Study. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:1251-1261. [PMID: 28206740 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.6b00398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The l-enantiomer is the predominant type of amino acid in all living systems. However, d-amino acids, once thought to be "unnatural", have been found to be indigenous even in mammalian systems and increasingly appear to be functioning in essential biological and neurological roles. Both d- and l-amino acid levels in the hippocampus, cortex, and blood samples from NIH Swiss mice are reported. Perfused brain tissues were analyzed for the first time, thereby eliminating artifacts due to endogenous blood, and decreased the mouse-to-mouse variability in amino acid levels. Total amino acid levels (l- plus d-enantiomers) in brain tissue are up to 10 times higher than in blood. However, all measured d-amino acid levels in brain tissue are typically ∼10 to 2000 times higher than blood levels. There was a 13% reduction in almost all measured d-amino acid levels in the cortex compared to those in the hippocampus. There is an approximate inverse relationship between the prevalence of an amino acid and the percentage of its d-enantiomeric form. Interestingly, glutamic acid, unlike all other amino acids, had no quantifiable level of its d-antipode. The bioneurological reason for the unique and conspicuous absence/removal of this d-amino acid is yet unknown. However, results suggest that d-glutamate metabolism is likely a unidirectional process and not a cycle, as per the l-glutamate/glutamine cycle. The results suggest that there might be unreported d-amino acid racemases in mammalian brains. The regulation and function of specific other d-amino acids are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choyce A. Weatherly
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas 76019, United States
| | - Siqi Du
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas 76019, United States
| | - Curran Parpia
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas 76019, United States
| | - Polan T. Santos
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, United States
| | - Adam L. Hartman
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, United States
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Blomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Daniel W. Armstrong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas 76019, United States
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24
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D'Aniello A, Luongo L, Romano R, Iannotta M, Marabese I, Boccella S, Belardo C, de Novellis V, Arra C, Barbieri A, D'Aniello B, Scandurra A, Magliozzi L, Fisher G, Guida F, Maione S. d-Aspartic acid ameliorates painful and neuropsychiatric changes and reduces β-amyloid Aβ 1-42 peptide in a long lasting model of neuropathic pain. Neurosci Lett 2017; 651:151-158. [PMID: 28487079 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Depressive symptoms and other neuropsychiatric dysfunctions are common in neurodegenerative disorders, including chronic pain and dementia. A correlation between the β-amyloid protein accumulation and the development of depression has been suggested, however the underlying mechanisms are unknown. d-Aspartate (d-Asp) is a free d-amino acid found in the mammalian brain and involved in neurological and psychiatric processes, such as cognition and affective disorders. In this study we have investigated the effects of a repeated treatment with d-Asp in a long-lasting (12 months) model of neuropathic pain, the spared nerve injury (SNI), in mice. Specifically, we evaluated i) the pain sensitivity and related emotional/cognitive dysfunctions induced by SNI, ii) possible changes in the β-amyloid protein accumulation in specific brain regions involved in pain mechanisms ii) possible changes in steroids level in neuropathic animals with or without d-Asp in the same brain areas. SNI mice showed an increase of the insoluble form of Aβ1-42 at hippocampal level and displayed cognitive impairments, stereotypical and depressive-like behaviours. d-Asp treatment reduced abnormal behaviours and normalized the β-amyloid protein expression. Moreover, d-Asp dramatically increased steroids level measured in the prefrontal cortex and in the hippocampus. Our findings provide new insights into pain mechanisms and suggest a possible role of β-amyloid protein in neuropsychiatric dysfunctions associated with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antimo D'Aniello
- Department of Neurobiology and Comparative Physiology, Zoological Station "A. Dohrn", Napoli, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy.
| | - Livio Luongo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Romano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Iannotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Ida Marabese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Boccella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Belardo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Vito de Novellis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudio Arra
- Animal Facility Unit Traslational Research Department, Istituto Nazionale Tumori -IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Napoli, Italia
| | - Antonio Barbieri
- Animal Facility Unit Traslational Research Department, Istituto Nazionale Tumori -IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Napoli, Italia
| | - Biagio D'Aniello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Scandurra
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Magliozzi
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, CoNISMa, Lecce, Italy
| | - George Fisher
- Department of Physical Sciences, Barry University, Miami Schores , USA
| | - Francesca Guida
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, Università della Campania, Naples, Italy.
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25
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Tian H, Zheng N, Li S, Zhang Y, Zhao S, Wen F, Wang J. Characterization of chiral amino acids from different milk origins using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to ion-mobility mass spectrometry. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46289. [PMID: 28393862 PMCID: PMC5385494 DOI: 10.1038/srep46289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Milk contains free amino acids (AAs) that play essential roles in maintaining the growth and health of infants, and D-AA isomers are increasingly being recognized as important signalling molecules. However, there are no studies of the different characteristics of chiral AA (C-AA) from different milk origins. Here, UPLC coupled to ion-mobility high-resolution MS (IM-HRMS) was employed to characterize 18 pairs of C-AAs in human, cow, yak, buffalo, goat, and camel milk. The results proved that milk origins can be differentiated based on the D- to L- AA ratio-based projection scores by principal component analysis. The present study gives a deeper understanding of the D- to L- AA ratio underlying the biological functions of different animal milks, and provide a new strategy for the study of AA metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture Laboratory of Quality& Safety Risk Assessment for Dairy Products (Beijing), Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P.R. China
| | - Nan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture Laboratory of Quality& Safety Risk Assessment for Dairy Products (Beijing), Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P.R. China
| | - Songli Li
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture Laboratory of Quality& Safety Risk Assessment for Dairy Products (Beijing), Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P.R. China
| | - Yangdong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture Laboratory of Quality& Safety Risk Assessment for Dairy Products (Beijing), Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P.R. China
| | - Shengguo Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture Laboratory of Quality& Safety Risk Assessment for Dairy Products (Beijing), Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P.R. China
| | - Fang Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture Laboratory of Quality& Safety Risk Assessment for Dairy Products (Beijing), Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P.R. China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture Laboratory of Quality& Safety Risk Assessment for Dairy Products (Beijing), Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P.R. China
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26
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Blecharz-Klin K, Piechal A, Jawna-Zboińska K, Pyrzanowska J, Wawer A, Joniec-Maciejak I, Widy-Tyszkiewicz E. Paracetamol − Effect of early exposure on neurotransmission, spatial memory and motor performance in rats. Behav Brain Res 2017; 323:162-171. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.01.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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27
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Farajkhoda T. An overview on ethical considerations in stem cell research in Iran and ethical recommendations. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.15.2.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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28
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Sui Z, Qi C, Huang Y, Ma S, Wang X, Le G, Sun J. Aqueous extracts from asparagus stems prevent memory impairments in scopolamine-treated mice. Food Funct 2017; 8:1460-1467. [DOI: 10.1039/c7fo00028f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aqueous extracts fromAsparagus officinalisL. reversed scopolamine-induced cognitive impairments by increasing acetylcholine and expression of BDNF and CREB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifang Sui
- The Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology
- Ministry of Education
- School of Biotechnology
- Jiangnan University
- Wuxi214122
| | - Ce Qi
- School of Food Science and Technology
- Jiangnan University
- Wuxi214122
- China
| | - Yunxiang Huang
- Asparagus Engineering Technology Research Centre of Hebei
- Qinhuangdao 066004
- China
- Hebei Province Asparagus Industry Technology Research Institute
- Qinhuangdao 066004
| | - Shufeng Ma
- The Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology
- Ministry of Education
- School of Biotechnology
- Jiangnan University
- Wuxi214122
| | - Xinguo Wang
- School of Food Science and Technology
- Jiangnan University
- Wuxi214122
- China
| | - Guowei Le
- School of Food Science and Technology
- Jiangnan University
- Wuxi214122
- China
| | - Jin Sun
- School of Food Science and Technology
- Jiangnan University
- Wuxi214122
- China
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29
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Roshanzamir F, Safavi SM. The putative effects of D-Aspartic acid on blood testosterone levels: A systematic review. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.15.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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30
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Vollero A, Imperiali FG, Cinquetti R, Margheritis E, Peres A, Bossi E. The D-amino acid transport by the invertebrate SLC6 transporters KAAT1 and CAATCH1 from Manduca sexta. Physiol Rep 2016; 4:4/4/e12691. [PMID: 26884475 PMCID: PMC4759042 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of the SLC6 family members, the insect neutral amino acid cotransporter KAAT1(K+‐coupled amino acid transporter 1) and its homologous CAATCH1(cation anion activated amino acid transporter/channel), to transport D‐amino acids has been investigated through heterologous expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes and electrophysiological techniques. In the presence of D‐isomers of leucine, serine, and proline, the msKAAT1 generates inward, transport‐associated, currents with variable relative potencies, depending on the driving ion Na+ or K+. Higher concentrations of D‐leucine (≥1 mmol/L) give rise to an anomalous response that suggests the existence of a second binding site with inhibitory action on the transport process. msCAATCH1 is also able to transport the D‐amino acids tested, including D‐leucine, whereas L‐leucine acts as a blocker. A similar behavior is exhibited by the KAAT1 mutant S308T, confirming the relevance of the residue in this position in L‐leucine binding and the different interaction of D‐leucine with residues involved in transport mechanism. D‐leucine and D‐serine on various vertebrate orthologs B0AT1 (SLC6A19) elicited only a very small current and singular behavior was not observed, indicating that it is specific of the insect neutral amino acid transporters. These findings highlight the relevance of D‐amino acid absorption in the insect nutrition and metabolism and may provide new evidences in the molecular transport mechanism of SLC6 family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Vollero
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Francesca G Imperiali
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Raffaella Cinquetti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Eleonora Margheritis
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Antonio Peres
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Elena Bossi
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy Interuniversity Center "The ProteinFactory", Politecnico di Milano, ICRM-CNR Milano and Università dell'Insubria, Milan, Italy
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31
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Errico F, Mothet JP, Usiello A. d-Aspartate: An endogenous NMDA receptor agonist enriched in the developing brain with potential involvement in schizophrenia. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2015; 116:7-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2015.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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32
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Gasparova Z, Pronayova N, Stara V, Liptaj T. In Vitro Metabolomic Approach to Hippocampal Neurodegeneration Induced by Trimethyltin. Neurochem Res 2015; 41:715-21. [PMID: 26482153 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-015-1740-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Search for indicators of neurodegenerative disorders is a hot topic where much research remains to be done. Our aim was to determine proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H-NMR) spectra of brain metabolites in the trimethyltin (TMT) model of neurodegeneration. Male Wistar rats were subjected to TMT or saline and were sacrificed on day 3 or 24 after administration. (1)H-NMR spectrum was measured on the 600 MHz Varian VNMRS spectrometer in nano-probe in the volume of 40 μl of hippocampal extracts. TMT administration resulted in reduction of the hippocampal weight on day 24. Of the sixteen identified metabolite spectra, decreased aspartate and increased glutamine contents were observed in the initial asymptomatic stage of neurodegeneration on day 3 in hippocampal extracts of TMT exposed rats compared to sham animals. Increased myo-inositol content was observed on day 24. The presented data provide further knowledge about this experimental model and putative indicators of neuronal damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdenka Gasparova
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Nada Pronayova
- Department of NMR and Mass Spectroscopy, Faculty of Food and Chemical Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Stara
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia.,Department of Pharmacology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Tibor Liptaj
- Department of NMR and Mass Spectroscopy, Faculty of Food and Chemical Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava, Slovakia
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33
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Neuroligin-associated microRNA-932 targets actin and regulates memory in the honeybee. Nat Commun 2014; 5:5529. [PMID: 25409902 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as microRNAs (miRNAs) control levels of mRNA expression during experience-related remodelling of the brain. Here we use an associative olfactory learning paradigm in the honeybee Apis mellifera to examine gene expression changes in the brain during memory formation. Brain transcriptome analysis reveals a general downregulation of protein-coding genes, including asparagine synthetase and actin, and upregulation of ncRNAs. miRNA-mRNA network predictions together with PCR validation suggest miRNAs including miR-210 and miR-932 target the downregulated protein-coding genes. Feeding cholesterol-conjugated antisense RNA to bees results in the inhibition of miR-210 and of miR-932. Loss of miR-932 impairs long-term memory formation, but not memory acquisition. Functional analyses show that miR-932 interacts with Act5C, providing evidence for direct regulation of actin expression by an miRNA. An activity-dependent increase in miR-932 expression may therefore control actin-related plasticity mechanisms and affect memory formation in the brain.
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34
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Is D-aspartate produced by glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase-1 like 1 (Got1l1): a putative aspartate racemase? Amino Acids 2014; 47:79-86. [PMID: 25287256 PMCID: PMC4282708 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-014-1847-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
D-Aspartate is an endogenous free amino acid in the brain, endocrine tissues, and exocrine tissues in mammals, and it plays several physiological roles. In the testis, D-aspartate is detected in elongate spermatids, Leydig cells, and Sertoli cells, and implicated in the synthesis and release of testosterone. In the hippocampus, D-aspartate strongly enhances N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-dependent long-term potentiation and is involved in learning and memory. The existence of aspartate racemase, a candidate enzyme for D-aspartate production, has been suggested. Recently, mouse glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 1-like 1 (Got1l1) has been reported to synthesize substantially D-aspartate from L-aspartate and to be involved in adult neurogenesis. In this study, we investigated the function of Got1l1 in vivo by generating and analyzing Got1l1 knockout (KO) mice. We also examined the enzymatic activity of recombinant Got1l1 in vitro. We found that Got1l1 mRNA is highly expressed in the testis, but it is not detected in the brain and submandibular gland, where D-aspartate is abundant. The D-aspartate contents of wild-type and Got1l1 KO mice were not significantly different in the testis and hippocampus. The recombinant Got1l1 expressed in mammalian cells showed L-aspartate aminotransferase activity, but lacked aspartate racemase activity. These findings suggest that Got1l1 is not the major aspartate racemase and there might be an as yet unknown D-aspartate-synthesizing enzyme.
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35
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Determination and stereochemistry of proteinogenic and non-proteinogenic amino acids in Saudi Arabian date fruits. Amino Acids 2014; 46:2241-57. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-014-1770-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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36
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Santillo A, Pinelli C, Burrone L, Chieffi Baccari G, Di Fiore MM. D-Aspartic acid implication in the modulation of frog brain sex steroid levels. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 181:72-6. [PMID: 23153651 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2012.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2012] [Revised: 10/26/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
There is evidence that D-aspartate (D-Asp) modulates sex hormone levels in frog testis by regulating the activity of P450 aromatase (P450 aro), the key enzyme which converts Testosterone (T) in 17ß-Estradiol (E2). Here we report, for the first time, that there is a direct correlation among brain levels of D-Asp, P450 aro, E2 and Estradiol Receptor (ERα) in the male frogs during the reproductive as well as the post-reproductive phases of the breeding cycle, with highest levels being observed in the post-reproductive period. D-Asp i.p. administration to frogs ready for reproduction, induced an increase of brain P450 aro protein expression with concomitant enhancement of both E2 levels and ERα expression; at the same time, brain T levels and Androgen receptor expression decreased. In contrast, in the post-reproductive frogs, D-Asp treatment did not modify any of these parameters. Taken together, these results imply that the regulation of P450 aro expression by D-Asp could be an important step in the control of E2 levels in the frog brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
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37
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D-Aspartate acts as a signaling molecule in nervous and neuroendocrine systems. Amino Acids 2012; 43:1873-86. [PMID: 22872108 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-012-1364-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
D-Aspartate (D-Asp) is an endogenous amino acid in the central nervous and reproductive systems of vertebrates and invertebrates. High concentrations of D-Asp are found in distinct anatomical locations, suggesting that it has specific physiological roles in animals. Many of the characteristics of D-Asp have been documented, including its tissue and cellular distribution, formation and degradation, as well as the responses elicited by D-Asp application. D-Asp performs important roles related to nervous system development and hormone regulation; in addition, it appears to act as a cell-to-cell signaling molecule. Recent studies have shown that D-Asp fulfills many, if not all, of the definitions of a classical neurotransmitter-that the molecule's biosynthesis, degradation, uptake, and release take place within the presynaptic neuron, and that it triggers a response in the postsynaptic neuron after its release. Accumulating evidence suggests that these criteria are met by a heterogeneous distribution of enzymes for D-Asp's biosynthesis and degradation, an appropriate uptake mechanism, localization within synaptic vesicles, and a postsynaptic response via an ionotropic receptor. Although D-Asp receptors remain to be characterized, the postsynaptic response of D-Asp has been studied and several L-glutamate receptors are known to respond to D-Asp. In this review, we discuss the current status of research on D-Asp in neuronal and neuroendocrine systems, and highlight results that support D-Asp's role as a signaling molecule.
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Burrone L, Santillo A, Pinelli C, Baccari GC, Di Fiore MM. Induced synthesis of P450 aromatase and 17β-estradiol by D-aspartate in frog brain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 215:3559-65. [PMID: 22771744 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.073296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
D-Aspartic acid is an endogenous amino acid occurring in the endocrine glands as well as in the nervous system of various animal phyla. Our previous studies have provided evidence that D-aspartate plays a role in the induction of estradiol synthesis in gonads. Recently, we have also demonstrated that D-aspartic acid induces P450 aromatase mRNA expression in the frog (Pelophylax esculentus) testis. P450 aromatase is the key enzyme in the estrogen synthetic pathway and irreversibly converts testosterone into 17β-estradiol. In this study, we firstly investigated the immunolocalisation of P450 aromatase in the brain of P. esculentus, which has never previously been described in amphibians. Therefore, to test the hypothesis that d-aspartate mediates a local synthesis of P450 aromatase in the frog brain, we administered D-aspartate in vivo to male frogs and then assessed brain aromatase expression, sex hormone levels and sex hormone receptor expression. We found that D-aspartate enhances brain aromatase expression (mRNA and protein) through the CREB pathway. Then, P450 aromatase induces 17β-estradiol production from testosterone, with a consequent increase of its receptor. Therefore, the regulation of d-aspartate-mediated P450 aromatase expression could be an important step in the control of neuroendocrine regulation of the reproductive axis. Accordingly, we found that the sites of P450 aromatase immunoreactivity in the frog brain correspond to the areas known to be involved in neurosteroid synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Burrone
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
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Visser WF, Verhoeven-Duif NM, Ophoff R, Bakker S, Klomp LW, Berger R, de Koning TJ. A sensitive and simple ultra-high-performance-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry based method for the quantification of D-amino acids in body fluids. J Chromatogr A 2011; 1218:7130-6. [PMID: 21890145 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2011.07.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
D-Amino acids are increasingly being recognized as important signaling molecules in mammals, including humans. D-Serine and D-aspartate are believed to act as signaling molecules in the central nervous system. Interestingly, several other D-amino acids also occur in human plasma, but very little is currently known regarding their function and origin. Abnormal levels of D-amino acids have been implicated in the pathogenesis of different diseases, including schizophrenia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), indicating that D-amino acid levels hold potential as diagnostic markers. Research into the biological functions of D-amino acids is hindered, however, by the lack of sufficiently sensitive, high-throughput analytical methods. In particular, the interference of large amounts of L-amino acids in biological samples and the low concentrations of D-amino acids are challenging. In this paper, we compared 7 different chiral derivatization agents for the analysis of D-amino acids and show that the chiral reagent (S)-NIFE offers outstanding performance in terms of sensitivity and enantioselectivity. An UPLC-MS/MS based method for the quantification of D-amino acids human biological fluids was then developed using (S)-NIFE. Baseline separation (R(s)>2.45) was achieved for the isomers of all 19 chiral proteinogenic amino acids. The limit of detection was <1 nM for all amino acids except d-alanine (1.98 nM), d-methionine (1.18 nM) and d-asparagine (5.15 nM). For measurements in human plasma, cerebrospinal fluid and urine, the accuracy ranged between 85% and 107%. The intra-assay and inter-assay were both <16% RSD for these three different matrices. Importantly, the method does not suffer from spontaneous racemization during sample preparation and derivatization. Using the described method, D-amino acid levels in human cerebrospinal fluid, plasma and urine were measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter F Visser
- University Medical Center Utrecht/Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Department of Metabolic and Endocrine Diseases, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Friedman M, Levin CE. Nutritional and medicinal aspects of D-amino acids. Amino Acids 2011; 42:1553-82. [PMID: 21519915 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-011-0915-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 04/06/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews and interprets a method for determining the nutritional value of D-amino acids, D-peptides, and amino acid derivatives using a growth assay in mice fed a synthetic all-amino acid diet. A large number of experiments were carried out in which a molar equivalent of the test compound replaced a nutritionally essential amino acid such as L-lysine (L-Lys), L-methionine (L-Met), L-phenylalanine (L-Phe), and L-tryptophan (L-Trp) as well as the semi-essential amino acids L-cysteine (L-Cys) and L-tyrosine (L-Tyr). The results show wide-ranging variations in the biological utilization of test substances. The method is generally applicable to the determination of the biological utilization and safety of any amino acid derivative as a potential nutritional source of the corresponding L-amino acid. Because the organism is forced to use the D-amino acid or amino acid derivative as the sole source of the essential or semi-essential amino acid being replaced, and because a free amino acid diet allows better control of composition, the use of all-amino-acid diets for such determinations may be preferable to protein-based diets. Also covered are brief summaries of the widely scattered literature on dietary and pharmacological aspects of 27 individual D-amino acids, D-peptides, and isomeric amino acid derivatives and suggested research needs in each of these areas. The described results provide a valuable record and resource for further progress on the multifaceted aspects of D-amino acids in food and biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mendel Friedman
- Western Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA 94710, USA.
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Wang L, Ota N, Romanova EV, Sweedler JV. A novel pyridoxal 5'-phosphate-dependent amino acid racemase in the Aplysia californica central nervous system. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:13765-74. [PMID: 21343289 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.178228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
D-aspartate (D-Asp) is found in specific neurons, transported to neuronal terminals and released in a stimulation-dependent manner. Because D-Asp formation is not well understood, determining its function has proved challenging. Significant levels of D-Asp are present in the cerebral ganglion of the F- and C-clusters of the invertebrate Aplysia californica, and D-Asp appears to be involved in cell-cell communication in this system. Here, we describe a novel protein, DAR1, from A. californica that can convert aspartate and serine to their other chiral form in a pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP)-dependent manner. DAR1 has a predicted length of 325 amino acids and is 55% identical to the bivalve aspartate racemase, EC 5.1.1.13, and 41% identical to the mammalian serine racemase, EC 5.1.1.18. However, it is only 14% identical to the recently reported mammalian aspartate racemase, DR, which is closely related to glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase, EC 2.6.1.1. Using whole-mount immunohistochemistry staining of the A. californica central nervous system, we localized DAR1-like immunoreactivity to the medial region of the cerebral ganglion where the F- and C-clusters are situated. The biochemical and functional similarities between DAR1 and other animal serine and aspartate racemases make it valuable for examining PLP-dependent racemases, promising to increase our knowledge of enzyme regulation and ultimately, D-serine and D-Asp signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Wang
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
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D'Aniello S, Somorjai I, Garcia-Fernàndez J, Topo E, D'Aniello A. D-Aspartic acid is a novel endogenous neurotransmitter. FASEB J 2010; 25:1014-27. [PMID: 21163862 DOI: 10.1096/fj.10-168492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) is present in invertebrate and vertebrate neuroendocrine tissues, where it carries out important physiological functions and is implicated in nervous system development. We show here that D-Asp is a novel endogenous neurotransmitter in two distantly related animals, a mammal (Rattus norvegicus) and a mollusk (Loligo vulgaris). Our main findings demonstrate that D-Asp is present in high concentrations in the synaptic vesicles of axon terminals; synthesis for this amino acid occurs in neurons by conversion of L-Asp to D-Asp via D-aspartate racemase; depolarization of nerve endings with K(+) ions evokes an immediate release of D-Asp in a Ca(2+) dependent manner; specific receptors for D-Asp occur at the postsynaptic membrane, as demonstrated by binding assays and by the expansion of squid skin chromatophores; D-aspartate oxidase, the specific enzyme that oxidizes D-Asp, is present in the postsynaptic membranes; and stimulation of nerve endings with D-Asp triggers signal transduction by increasing the second messenger cAMP. Taken together, these data demonstrate that D-Asp fulfills all criteria necessary to be considered a novel endogenous neurotransmitter. Given its known role in neurogenesis, learning, and neuropathologies, our results have important implications for biomedical and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore D'Aniello
- Departament de Genètica, Institut de Biomedicina, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Luna-Munguía H, Meneses A, Peña-Ortega F, Gaona A, Rocha L. Effects of hippocampal high-frequency electrical stimulation in memory formation and their association with amino acid tissue content and release in normal rats. Hippocampus 2010; 22:98-105. [DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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