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Liu C, Guo S, Liu R, Guo M, Wang Q, Chai Z, Xiao B, Ma C. Fasudil-modified macrophages reduce inflammation and regulate the immune response in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:671-679. [PMID: 37721300 PMCID: PMC10581551 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.379050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is characterized by demyelination and neuronal loss caused by inflammatory cell activation and infiltration into the central nervous system. Macrophage polarization plays an important role in the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a traditional experimental model of multiple sclerosis. This study investigated the effect of Fasudil on macrophages and examined the therapeutic potential of Fasudil-modified macrophages in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. We found that Fasudil induced the conversion of macrophages from the pro-inflammatory M1 type to the anti-inflammatory M2 type, as shown by reduced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide, interleukin-12, and CD16/32 and increased expression of arginase-1, interleukin-10, CD14, and CD206, which was linked to inhibition of Rho kinase activity, decreased expression of toll-like receptors, nuclear factor-κB, and components of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, and generation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6. Crucially, Fasudil-modified macrophages effectively decreased the impact of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, resulting in later onset of disease, lower symptom scores, less weight loss, and reduced demyelination compared with unmodified macrophages. In addition, Fasudil-modified macrophages decreased interleukin-17 expression on CD4+ T cells and CD16/32, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and interleukin-12 expression on F4/80+ macrophages, as well as increasing interleukin-10 expression on CD4+ T cells and arginase-1, CD206, and interleukin-10 expression on F4/80+ macrophages, which improved immune regulation and reduced inflammation. These findings suggest that Fasudil-modified macrophages may help treat experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by inducing M2 macrophage polarization and inhibiting the inflammatory response, thereby providing new insight into cell immunotherapy for multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyun Liu
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Shangde Guo
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Minfang Guo
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Qing Wang
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Zhi Chai
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Baoguo Xiao
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cungen Ma
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Datong University, Datong, Shanxi Province, China
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine/Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China
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2
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Xue J, Tao K, Wang W, Wang X. What Can Inflammation Tell Us about Therapeutic Strategies for Parkinson's Disease? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1641. [PMID: 38338925 PMCID: PMC10855787 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with a complicated etiology and pathogenesis. α-Synuclein aggregation, dopaminergic (DA) neuron loss, mitochondrial injury, oxidative stress, and inflammation are involved in the process of PD. Neuroinflammation has been recognized as a key element in the initiation and progression of PD. In this review, we summarize the inflammatory response and pathogenic mechanisms of PD. Additionally, we describe the potential anti-inflammatory therapies, including nod-like receptor pyrin domain containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome inhibition, nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) inhibition, microglia inhibition, astrocyte inhibition, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase inhibition, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist, targeting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, targeting the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent pathway, targeting α-synuclein, targeting miRNA, acupuncture, and exercise. The review focuses on inflammation and will help in designing new prevention strategies for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsong Xue
- School of Biology, Food and Environment, Hefei University, Hefei 230601, China; (K.T.); (W.W.)
| | | | | | - Xiaofei Wang
- School of Biology, Food and Environment, Hefei University, Hefei 230601, China; (K.T.); (W.W.)
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Saeidi N, Goudarzvand H, Mohammadi H, Mardi A, Ghoreishizadeh S, Shomali N, Goudarzvand M. Dysregulation of miR-193a serves as a potential contributor to MS pathogenesis via affecting RhoA and Rock1. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 69:104468. [PMID: 36529069 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.104468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common neurological diseases that cause chronic inflammation of the central nervous system and demyelination of the myelin sheath. At present, microRNAs (miRNAs) are considered not only a diagnostic and prognostic indicator of diseases but also a new goal in gene therapy. This study aims to find a simple, non-invasive, valuable biomarker for early detection and potential treatment of MS. METHODS In the present study, 30 patients with MS were included. The qRT-PCR method was performed to evaluate the expression level of miR-193a, RhoA, and ROCK1. Besides, western blotting was performed to determine the expression level of RhoA and ROCK1 at protein levels. Moreover, we aimed to clarify the possible correlation between miR-193a-5p and its-regulated target genes so that miR-193a-5p mimic was transfected into MS-derived cultured PBMSs, and the expression level of RhoA and ROCK1 were then evaluated by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. In the final step, the correlation between miR-193a-5p and clinicopathological features of patients was investigated. RESULTS Results showed that miR-193a was decreased while RhoA and ROCK1 were up-regulated in PBMCs obtained from patients with MS compared to the control group. It was also revealed that miR-193a transfection reduced RhoA and ROCK1 expression at mRNA and protein levels. The results from the Chi-square analysis showed that down-regulation of miR-193a was associated with increased CRP level, CSF IgG positivity, and MSSS (Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score), suggesting miR-193a is a potential diagnostic and prognostic indicator. CONCLUSION We implied that miR-193a could modulate RhoA and ROCK 1 expression in MS patients, in which its down-regulation leads to increased expression of RhoA and ROCK1 and poor prognosis of patients with MS. Therefore, miR-193a and its associated targets could serve potential prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic efficacy in MS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Saeidi
- DNA Laboratory, Analytical Laboratories, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | | | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Mardi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Shadi Ghoreishizadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Shomali
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Goudarzvand
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
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4
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Angelini G, Bani A, Constantin G, Rossi B. The interplay between T helper cells and brain barriers in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1101379. [PMID: 36874213 PMCID: PMC9975172 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1101379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) represent two complex structures protecting the central nervous system (CNS) against potentially harmful agents and circulating immune cells. The immunosurveillance of the CNS is governed by immune cells that constantly patrol the BCSFB, whereas during neuroinflammatory disorders, both BBB and BCSFB undergo morphological and functional alterations, promoting leukocyte intravascular adhesion and transmigration from the blood circulation into the CNS. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the prototype of neuroinflammatory disorders in which peripheral T helper (Th) lymphocytes, particularly Th1 and Th17 cells, infiltrate the CNS and contribute to demyelination and neurodegeneration. Th1 and Th17 cells are considered key players in the pathogenesis of MS and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. They can actively interact with CNS borders by complex adhesion mechanisms and secretion of a variety of molecules contributing to barrier dysfunction. In this review, we describe the molecular basis involved in the interactions between Th cells and CNS barriers and discuss the emerging roles of dura mater and arachnoid layer as neuroimmune interfaces contributing to the development of CNS inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Angelini
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bani
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gabriela Constantin
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,The Center for Biomedical Computing (CBMC), University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Rossi
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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O'Brien JT, Chouliaras L, Sultana J, Taylor JP, Ballard C. RENEWAL: REpurposing study to find NEW compounds with Activity for Lewy body dementia-an international Delphi consensus. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:169. [PMID: 36369100 PMCID: PMC9650797 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-01103-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Drug repositioning and repurposing has proved useful in identifying new treatments for many diseases, which can then rapidly be brought into clinical practice. Currently, there are few effective pharmacological treatments for Lewy body dementia (which includes both dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease dementia) apart from cholinesterase inhibitors. We reviewed several promising compounds that might potentially be disease-modifying agents for Lewy body dementia and then undertook an International Delphi consensus study to prioritise compounds. We identified ambroxol as the top ranked agent for repurposing and identified a further six agents from the classes of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and angiotensin receptor blockers that were rated by the majority of our expert panel as justifying a clinical trial. It would now be timely to take forward all these compounds to Phase II or III clinical trials in Lewy body dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK.
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Leonidas Chouliaras
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Janet Sultana
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - John-Paul Taylor
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Clive Ballard
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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Toll-Like Receptor 4: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:7924199. [PMID: 36046763 PMCID: PMC9420645 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7924199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily manifests as memory deficits and cognitive impairment and has created health challenges for patients and society. In AD, amyloid β-protein (Aβ) induces Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) activation in microglia. Activation of TLR4 induces downstream signaling pathways and promotes the generation of proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), which also trigger the activation of astrocytes and influence amyloid-dependent neuronal death. Therefore, TLR4 may be an important molecular target for treating AD by regulating neuroinflammation. Moreover, TLR4 regulates apoptosis, autophagy, and gut microbiota and is closely related to AD. This article reviews the role of TLR4 in the pathogenesis of AD and a range of potential therapies targeting TLR4 for AD. Elucidating the regulatory mechanism of TLR4 in AD may provide valuable clues for developing new therapeutic strategies for AD.
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Murray TE, Richards CM, Robert-Gostlin VN, Bernath AK, Lindhout IA, Klegeris A. Potential neurotoxic activity of diverse molecules released by astrocytes. Brain Res Bull 2022; 189:80-101. [PMID: 35988785 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are the main support cells of the central nervous system. They also participate in neuroimmune reactions. In response to pathological and immune stimuli, astrocytes transform to reactive states characterized by increased release of inflammatory mediators. Some of these molecules are neuroprotective and inflammation resolving while others, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)- 9, L-glutamate, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF), are well-established toxins known to cause damage to surrounding cells and tissues. We hypothesized that similar to microglia, the brain immune cells, reactive astrocytes can release a broader set of diverse molecules that are potentially neurotoxic. A literature search was conducted to identify such molecules using the following two criteria: 1) evidence of their expression and secretion by astrocytes and 2) direct neurotoxic action. This review describes 14 structurally diverse molecules as less-established astrocyte neurotoxins, including C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)10, CXCL12/CXCL12(5-67), FS-7-associated surface antigen ligand (FasL), macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)- 2α, TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL), pro-nerve growth factor (proNGF), pro-brain-derived neurotrophic factor (proBDNF), chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), cathepsin (Cat)B, group IIA secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-IIA), amyloid beta peptides (Aβ), high mobility group box (HMGB)1, ceramides, and lipocalin (LCN)2. For some of these molecules, further studies are required to establish either their direct neurotoxic effects or the full spectrum of stimuli that induce their release by astrocytes. Only limited studies with human-derived astrocytes and neurons are available for most of these potential neurotoxins, which is a knowledge gap that should be addressed in the future. We also summarize available evidence of the role these molecules play in select neuropathologies where reactive astrocytes are a key feature. A comprehensive understanding of the full spectrum of neurotoxins released by reactive astrocytes is key to understanding neuroinflammatory diseases characterized by the adverse activation of these cells and may guide the development of novel treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taryn E Murray
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Christy M Richards
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Victoria N Robert-Gostlin
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Anna K Bernath
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Ivan A Lindhout
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Andis Klegeris
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada.
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8
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Yan H, Yan Y, Gao Y, Zhang N, Kumar G, Fang Q, Li Z, Li J, Zhang Y, Song L, Wang J, Sun J, Zhang HT, Ma CG. Transcriptome analysis of fasudil treatment in the APPswe/PSEN1dE9 transgenic (APP/PS1) mice model of Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6625. [PMID: 35459923 PMCID: PMC9033779 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10554-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of progressive dementia. In the present study, we showed hippocampal tissue transcriptome analysis in APPswe/PSEN1dE9 (APP/PS1, AD model) mice treated with fasudil (ADF) and compared with AD mice treated with saline (ADNS) and wild type mice (WT). The competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed and validated the differential expression of mRNA, lncRNA, miRNA, and circRNA. Our study showed differentially expressed mRNAs (DEMs) between WT and ADNS, while enriched in cell growth and death and nervous system pathways. DEMs between ADNS-ADF were enriched in the nervous system, glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis-keratan sulfate (KS) and Quorum sensing pathways. We validated four genes with RT-PCR, whereas enrichment of Acyl-CoA Synthetase Long Chain Family Member 4 (Acsl4, ENSMUST00000112903) in Quorum sensing pathways, and BTG anti-proliferation factor 1 (Btg1, ENSMUST00000038377) in RNA degradation pathways were conducted. Expression of these two genes were higher in ADNS, but were significantly reduced in ADF. Histone H4 transcription factor (Hinfp, ENSMUST00000216508) orchestrate G1/S transition of mitotic cell cycle and co-expressed with mmu-miR-26a-2-3p-mediated ceRNA and mmu-miR-3065-5p-mediated ceRNA; Wnt family member 4 (Wnt4, ENSMUST00000045747) was enriched in mTOR, Hippo and Wnt signaling pathway. Expression of these two genes were significantly lower in ADNS, and fasudil treatment reverse it. The present studies demonstrated four genes: Acsl4, Btg1, Hinfp, Wnt4 could be potential biomarkers of AD and the targets of fasudil treatment. These results will pave a novel direction for future clinic studies for AD and fasudil treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Yan
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Yuqing Yan
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China. .,The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China.
| | - Ye Gao
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Nianping Zhang
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Gajendra Kumar
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Qingli Fang
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Ziqing Li
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Jiehui Li
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Yuna Zhang
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Lijuan Song
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Jingxian Sun
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Han-Ting Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Qingdao University School of Pharmacy, Qingdao, 266073, China.
| | - Cun-Gen Ma
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China. .,The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China.
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9
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Yan Y, Gao Y, Fang Q, Zhang N, Kumar G, Yan H, Song L, Li J, Zhang Y, Sun J, Wang J, Zhao L, Skaggs K, Zhang HT, Ma CG. Inhibition of Rho Kinase by Fasudil Ameliorates Cognition Impairment in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice via Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Metabolites. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:755164. [PMID: 34721000 PMCID: PMC8551711 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.755164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fasudil, a Rho kinase inhibitor, exerts therapeutic effects in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD), a chronic neurodegenerative disease with progressive loss of memory. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. In addition, the gut microbiota and its metabolites have been implicated in AD. Methods: We examined the effect of fasudil on learning and memory using the Morris water-maze (MWM) test in APPswe/PSEN1dE9 transgenic (APP/PS1) mice (8 months old) treated (i.p.) with fasudil (25 mg/kg/day; ADF) or saline (ADNS) and in age- and gender-matched wild-type (WT) mice. Fecal metagenomics and metabolites were performed to identify novel biomarkers of AD and elucidate the mechanisms of fasudil induced beneficial effects in AD mice. Results: The MWM test showed significant improvement of spatial memory in APP/PS1 mice treated with fasudil as compared to ADNS. The metagenomic analysis revealed the abundance of the dominant phyla in all the three groups, including Bacteroidetes (23.7–44%) and Firmicutes (6.4–26.6%), and the increased relative abundance ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes in ADNS (59.1%) compared to WT (31.7%). In contrast, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was decreased to the WT level in ADF (32.8%). Lefse analysis of metagenomics identified s_Prevotella_sp_CAG873 as an ADF potential biomarker, while s_Helicobacter_typhlonius and s_Helicobacter_sp_MIT_03-1616 as ADNS potential biomarkers. Metabolite analysis revealed the increment of various metabolites, including glutamate, hypoxanthine, thymine, hexanoyl-CoA, and leukotriene, which were relative to ADNS or ADF microbiota potential biomarkers and mainly involved in the metabolism of nucleotide, lipids and sugars, and the inflammatory pathway. Conclusions: Memory deficit in APP/PS1 mice was correlated with the gut microbiome and metabolite status. Fasudil reversed the abnormal gut microbiota and subsequently regulated the related metabolisms to normal in the AD mice. It is believed that fasudil can be a novel strategy for the treatment of AD via remodeling of the gut microbiota and metabolites. The novel results also provide valuable references for the use of gut microbiota and metabolites as diagnostic biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets in clinical studies of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Yan
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China.,The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ye Gao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Qingli Fang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Nianping Zhang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Gajendra Kumar
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Hailong Yan
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Lijuan Song
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jiehui Li
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Yuna Zhang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Jingxian Sun
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Linhu Zhao
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China
| | - Keith Skaggs
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Han-Ting Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Qingdao University School of Pharmacy, Qingdao, China
| | - Cun-Gen Ma
- Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Institute of Brain Science, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, China.,The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
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10
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Martín-Cámara O, Cores Á, López-Alvarado P, Menéndez JC. Emerging targets in drug discovery against neurodegenerative diseases: Control of synapsis disfunction by the RhoA/ROCK pathway. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 225:113742. [PMID: 34388381 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Synaptic spine morphology is controlled by the activity of Rac1, Cdc42 and RhoA, which need to be finely balanced, and in particular RhoA/ROCK prevents the formation of new protrusions by stabilizing actin formation. These processes are crucial to the maturation process, slowing the de novo generation of new spines. The RhoA/ROCK also influences plasticity processes, and selective modulation by ROCK1 of MLC-dependent actin dynamics leads to neurite retraction, but not to spine retraction. ROCK1 is also responsible for the reduction of the readily releasable pool of synaptic vesicles. These and other evidences suggest that ROCK1 is the main isoform acting on the presynaptic neuron. On the other hand, ROCK2 seems to have broad effects on LIMK/cofilin-dependent plasticity processes such as cofilin-dependent PSD changes. The RhoA/ROCK pathway is an important factor in several different brain-related pathologies via both downstream and upstream pathways. In the aggregate, these evidences show that the RhoA/ROCK pathway has a central role in the etiopathogenesis of a large group of CNS diseases, which underscores the importance of the pharmacological modulation of RhoA/ROCK as an important pathway to drug discovery in the neurodegenerative disease area. This article aims at providing the first review of the role of compounds acting on the RhoA/ROCK pathway in the control of synaptic disfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olmo Martín-Cámara
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Cores
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar López-Alvarado
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Carlos Menéndez
- Unidad de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Departamento de Química en Ciencias Farmacéuticas. Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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11
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Cotman SL, Lefrancois S. CLN3, at the crossroads of endocytic trafficking. Neurosci Lett 2021; 762:136117. [PMID: 34274435 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The CLN3 gene was identified over two decades ago, but the primary function of the CLN3 protein remains unknown. Recessive inheritance of loss of function mutations in CLN3 are responsible for juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (Batten disease, or CLN3 disease), a fatal childhood onset neurodegenerative disease causing vision loss, seizures, progressive dementia, motor function loss and premature death. CLN3 is a multipass transmembrane protein that primarily localizes to endosomes and lysosomes. Defects in endocytosis, autophagy, and lysosomal function are common findings in CLN3-deficiency model systems. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these defects have not yet been fully elucidated. In this mini-review, we will summarize the current understanding of the CLN3 protein interaction network and discuss how this knowledge is starting to delineate the molecular pathogenesis of CLN3 disease. Accumulating evidence strongly points towards CLN3 playing a role in regulation of the cytoskeleton and cytoskeletal associated proteins to tether cellular membranes, regulation of membrane complexes such as channels/transporters, and modulating the function of small GTPases to effectively mediate vesicular movement and membrane dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Cotman
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Department of Neurology, Mass General Research Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge St., Boston, MA 02114, United States.
| | - Stéphane Lefrancois
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique, Laval H7V 1B7, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal H3A 0C7, Canada; Centre d'Excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines - Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montréal H2X 3Y7, Canada.
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12
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Guiler W, Koehler A, Boykin C, Lu Q. Pharmacological Modulators of Small GTPases of Rho Family in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:661612. [PMID: 34054432 PMCID: PMC8149604 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.661612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Classical Rho GTPases, including RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42, are members of the Ras small GTPase superfamily and play essential roles in a variety of cellular functions. Rho GTPase signaling can be turned on and off by specific GEFs and GAPs, respectively. These features empower Rho GTPases and their upstream and downstream modulators as targets for scientific research and therapeutic intervention. Specifically, significant therapeutic potential exists for targeting Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases due to their widespread cellular activity and alterations in neural tissues. This study will explore the roles of Rho GTPases in neurodegenerative diseases with focus on the applications of pharmacological modulators in recent discoveries. There have been exciting developments of small molecules, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and natural products and toxins for each classical Rho GTPase category. A brief overview of each category followed by examples in their applications will be provided. The literature on their roles in various diseases [e.g., Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and Multiple sclerosis (MS)] highlights the unique and broad implications targeting Rho GTPases for potential therapeutic intervention. Clearly, there is increasing knowledge of therapeutic promise from the discovery of pharmacological modulators of Rho GTPases for managing and treating these conditions. The progress is also accompanied by the recognition of complex Rho GTPase modulation where targeting its signaling can improve some aspects of pathogenesis while exacerbating others in the same disease model. Future directions should emphasize the importance of elucidating how different Rho GTPases work in concert and how they produce such widespread yet different cellular responses during neurodegenerative disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qun Lu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The Harriet and John Wooten Laboratory for Alzheimer’s and Neurogenerative Diseases Research, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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Ding ZB, Han QX, Wang Q, Song LJ, Chu GG, Guo MF, Chai Z, Yu JZ, Xiao BG, Li XY, Ma CG. Fasudil enhances the phagocytosis of myelin debris and the expression of neurotrophic factors in cuprizone-induced demyelinating mice. Neurosci Lett 2021; 753:135880. [PMID: 33838256 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is mainly associated with the neuroinflammation and demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS), in which the failure of remyelination results in persistent neurological dysfunction. Fasudil, a typical Rho kinase inhibitor, has been exhibited beneficial effects on several models of neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we showed that Fasudil promoted the uptake of myelin debris by microglia via cell experiments and through a cuprizone (CPZ)-induced demyelinating model. In vitro, microglia with phagocytic debris exhibited enhanced expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and the conditioned medium promoted the maturation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). Meanwhile, Fasudil upregulated TREM2/DAP12 pathway, which positively regulated the phagocytosis of myelin debris by microglia. Similarly, in vivo, Fasudil intervention enhanced the clearance of myelin debris, upregulated the expression of BDNF and GDNF on microglia, and promoted the formation of Oligo2+/PDGFRα+ OPCs and the maturation of MBP + oligodendrocytes in the brain. Our results showed that Fasudil targeted the phagocytic function of microglia, effectively clearing myelin debris produced during pathological process possibly by upregulating TREM2/DAP12 pathway, accompanied by increased expression of BDNF and GDNF. However, the precise mechanism underlying the effects of Fasudil in promoting phagocytic effects and neurotrophic factors remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Bin Ding
- Department of Neurology, Bethune Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China; The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Qing-Xian Han
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Qing Wang
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Li-Juan Song
- Department of Neurology, Bethune Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China; The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Guo-Guo Chu
- Department of Neurology, Bethune Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China; The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Min-Fang Guo
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Zhi Chai
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China
| | - Jie-Zhong Yu
- The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China; Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China
| | - Bao-Guo Xiao
- Institute of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Xin-Yi Li
- Department of Neurology, Bethune Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China.
| | - Cun-Gen Ma
- Department of Neurology, Bethune Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, China; The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Research Center of Neurobiology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030024, China; Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Medical School of Shanxi Datong University, Datong, 037009, China.
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14
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Zhu YT, Zhang Q, Xie HY, Yu KW, Xu GJ, Li SY, Wu Y. Environmental enrichment combined with fasudil promotes motor function recovery and axonal regeneration after stroke. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:2512-2520. [PMID: 33907042 PMCID: PMC8374579 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.313048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Fasudil, a Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, has a protective effect on the central nervous system. In addition, environmental enrichment is a promising technique for inducing the recovery of motor impairments in ischemic stroke models. The present study aimed to explore whether environmental enrichment combined with fasudil can facilitate motor function recovery and induce cortical axonal regeneration after stroke. First, a mouse model of ischemic cerebral stroke was established by photochemical embolization of the left sensorimotor cortex. Fasudil solution (10 mg/kg per day) was injected intraperitoneally for 21 days after the photothrombotic stroke. An environmental enrichment intervention was performed on days 7–21 after the photothrombotic stroke. The results revealed that environmental enrichment combined with fasudil improved motor function, increased growth-associated protein 43 expression in the infarcted cerebral cortex, promoted axonal regeneration on the contralateral side, and downregulated ROCK, p-LIM domain kinase (LIMK)1, and p-cofilin expression. The combined intervention was superior to monotherapy. These findings suggest that environmental enrichment combined with fasudil treatment promotes motor recovery after stroke, at least partly by stimulating axonal regeneration. The underlying mechanism might involve ROCK/LIMK1/cofilin pathway regulation. This study was approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee of Fudan University, China (approval No. 20160858A232) on February 24, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tong Zhu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qun Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Yu Xie
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke-Wei Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gao-Jing Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Yue Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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15
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Iyer M, Subramaniam MD, Venkatesan D, Cho SG, Ryding M, Meyer M, Vellingiri B. Role of RhoA-ROCK signaling in Parkinson's disease. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 894:173815. [PMID: 33345850 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex and widespread neurodegenerative disease characterized by depletion of midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons. Key issues are the development of therapies that can stop or reverse the disease progression, identification of dependable biomarkers, and better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of PD. RhoA-ROCK signals appear to have an important role in PD symptoms, making it a possible approach for PD treatment strategies. Activation of RhoA-ROCK (Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase) appears to stimulate various PD risk factors including aggregation of alpha-synuclein (αSyn), dysregulation of autophagy, and activation of apoptosis. This manuscript reviews current updates about the biology and function of the RhoA-ROCK pathway and discusses the possible role of this signaling pathway in causing the pathogenesis of PD. We conclude that inhibition of the RhoA-ROCK signaling pathway may have high translational potential and could be a promising therapeutic target in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahalaxmi Iyer
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, 600 006, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mohana Devi Subramaniam
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, 600 006, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dhivya Venkatesan
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641 046, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ssang-Goo Cho
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 05029, South Korea
| | - Matias Ryding
- Department of Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Morten Meyer
- Department of Neurobiology Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Brain Research - Inter Disciplinary Guided Excellence (BRIDGE), Odense, Denmark
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641 046, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Arya H, Coumar MS. Design of novel ROCK inhibitors using fragment-based de novo drug design approach. J Mol Model 2020; 26:249. [PMID: 32829478 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-020-04493-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Rho-associated coiled-coil protein kinase (ROCK) is playing a vital role in the regulation of key cellular events and also responsible for causing several pathological conditions such as cancer, hypertension, Alzheimer's, cerebral vasospasm, and cardiac stroke. Therefore, it has attracted us to target ROCK protein as a potential therapeutic target for combating various diseases. Consequently, we investigated the active site of ROCK I protein and designed novel leads against the target using the de novo evolution drug design approach. Caffeic acid (an aglycone of acteoside) as a scaffold and fragments from 336 reported ROCK inhibitors were used for the design of novel leads. Multiple copy simultaneous search docking was used to identify the suitable fragments to be linked with the scaffold. Basic medicinal chemistry rules, coupled with structural insights generated by docking, led to the design of 7a, 8a, 9a, and 10a as potential ROCK I inhibitors. The designed leads showed better binding than the approved drug fasudil and also interacted with the key hinge region residue Met156 of ROCK I. Further, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation revealed that the protein-ligand complexes were stable and maintained the hydrogen bond with Met156 throughout the MD run. The promising in silico outcomes suggest that the designed compounds could be suitable anti-cancer leads that need to be synthesized and tested in various cancer cell lines. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Arya
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Puducherry, 605014, India
| | - Mohane Selvaraj Coumar
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Puducherry, 605014, India.
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17
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Guo MF, Zhang HY, Li YH, Gu QF, Wei WY, Wang YY, Zhang XJ, Liu XQ, Song LJ, Chai Z, Yu JZ, Ma CG. Fasudil inhibits the activation of microglia and astrocytes of transgenic Alzheimer's disease mice via the downregulation of TLR4/Myd88/NF-κB pathway. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 346:577284. [PMID: 32652366 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests an association of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) with microglial and astrocytic dysregulation. Recent studies have proposed that activated microglia can transform astrocytes to a neurotoxic A1 phenotype, which has been shown to be involved in the promotion of neuronal damage in several neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. In the present study, we observed an obvious microglial activation and A1-specific astrocyte response in the brain tissue of APP/PS1 Tg mice. Fasudil treatment improved the cognitive deficits of APP/PS1 Tg mice, inhibited microglial activation and promoted their transformation to an anti-inflammatory phenotype, and further shifted astrocytes from an A1 to an A2 phenotype. Our experiments suggest Fasudil exerted these functions by inhibing the expression of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB, which are key mediators of inflammation. Using in vitro experiments, we further validated in vivo findings. Our cell experiments indicated that Fasudil induces a shift of inflammatory microglia towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype. LPS-induced microglia-conditioned medium promotes A1 astrocytic polarization, but Fasudil treatment resulted in a direct transformation of A1 astrocytes to A2. To summarize, our results show that Fasudil inhibits the neurotoxic activation of microglia and shifts astrocytes towards a neuroprotective A2 phenotype, representing a promising candidate for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Fang Guo
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China
| | - Hui-Yu Zhang
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China
| | - Yan-Hua Li
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China
| | - Qing-Fang Gu
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China
| | - Wen-Yue Wei
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China; Dept. of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Yu-Yin Wang
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China; Research Center of Neurobiology, The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong 030619, China
| | - Xiao-Juan Zhang
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China; Dept. of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Liu
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China
| | - Li-Juan Song
- Research Center of Neurobiology, The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong 030619, China; Dept. of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Zhi Chai
- Research Center of Neurobiology, The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong 030619, China
| | - Jie-Zhong Yu
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China; Dept. of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China; Dept. of Neurology, Datong Fifth People's Hospital, Datong 037009, China.
| | - Cun-Gen Ma
- Institute of Brain Science, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Neurodegenerative Diseases, Shanxi Datong University, Datong 037009, China; Research Center of Neurobiology, The Key Research Laboratory of Benefiting Qi for Acting Blood Circulation Method to Treat Multiple Sclerosis of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong 030619, China; Dept. of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China.
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18
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Jin Y, Blikslager AT. The Regulation of Intestinal Mucosal Barrier by Myosin Light Chain Kinase/Rho Kinases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103550. [PMID: 32443411 PMCID: PMC7278945 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The intestinal epithelial apical junctional complex, which includes tight and adherens junctions, contributes to the intestinal barrier function via their role in regulating paracellular permeability. Myosin light chain II (MLC-2), has been shown to be a critical regulatory protein in altering paracellular permeability during gastrointestinal disorders. Previous studies have demonstrated that phosphorylation of MLC-2 is a biochemical marker for perijunctional actomyosin ring contraction, which increases paracellular permeability by regulating the apical junctional complex. The phosphorylation of MLC-2 is dominantly regulated by myosin light chain kinase- (MLCK-) and Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase- (ROCK-) mediated pathways. In this review, we aim to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the role of MLCK- and ROCK-mediated pathways in the regulation of the intestinal barrier during normal homeostasis and digestive diseases. Additionally, we will also suggest potential therapeutic targeting of MLCK- and ROCK-associated pathways in gastrointestinal disorders that compromise the intestinal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younggeon Jin
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA;
| | - Anthony T. Blikslager
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Correspondence:
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Jung K, Kim J, Ahn G, Matsuda H, Akane T, Ahn M, Shin T. Alendronate alleviates the symptoms of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 84:106534. [PMID: 32361191 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates, such as alendronate, have been widely used to treat osteoporosis because they may target multiple signals in the mevalonate cascade. The present study evaluated the therapeutic effects of alendronate on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), which is a prototypical autoimmune disease model. EAE was induced in C57BL/6 mice by immunization with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)35-55 peptide. The mice were checked daily for clinical symptoms, such as paralysis, and the levels of inflammatory cytokines were analyzed using ELISA, western blot analyses, and immunohistochemistry. The daily oral administration of alendronate to EAE-induced mice significantly reduced the severity of paralysis and lowered T cell proliferation. Additionally, histopathological examinations confirmed that alendronate mitigated inflammation in the spinal cord after EAE induction, suppressed the infiltration of CD68-positive inflammatory cells, and reduced the production of various pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interferon (IFN)-γ, as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Furthermore, the alendronate-treated group exhibited a decrease in the number of iNOS-positive inflammatory cells compared to the vehicle-treated group. Taken together, the present results suggest that alendronate alleviated neuro-inflammation in the spinal cords of EAE-induced mice, which is an animal model of multiple sclerosis, possibly by inhibiting the downstream effects of the mevalonate cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsook Jung
- Functional Biomaterials Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 181 Ipsin-gil, Jeongeup-si, Jeonbuk 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongtae Kim
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea; Department of Anatomy, Kosin University College of Medicine, Busan 49267, Republic of Korea
| | - Ginnae Ahn
- Department of Marine Bio-Food Sciences, Chonnam National University, Yeosu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hiroshi Matsuda
- Cooperative Major in Advanced Health Science, Graduate School of Bio-Applications and System Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan; Laboratory of Veterinary Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics, Division of Animal Life Science, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tanaka Akane
- Cooperative Major in Advanced Health Science, Graduate School of Bio-Applications and System Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan; Laboratory of Comparative Animal Medicine, Division of Animal Life Science, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Meejung Ahn
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea; Department of Animal Science, College of Life Science, Sangji University, Wonju 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Taekyun Shin
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea.
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