1
|
Khoram-Abadi KM, Basiri M, Nemati M, Nozari M. Agmatine ameliorates valproic acid-induced depletion of parvalbumin-positive neuron. Int J Dev Neurosci 2024; 84:134-142. [PMID: 38304999 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10314] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a widespread neurodevelopmental disorder with unknown etiology. Dysfunction of several brain areas including the prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus, and cerebellum is involved in cognitive and behavioral deficits associated with ASD. Several studies have reported a reduction in the number of parvalbumin-immunoreactive (PV+) neurons in brain areas of ASD patients and animal models such as a shank mutant mouse model and rodents receiving fetal valproic acid (VPA) administration. Developing therapeutic interventions that restore PV interneurons can be the future therapeutic approach to ASD. The present study examined the possible effect of agmatine (AG), an endogenous NMDA antagonist, on the number of PV+ neurons in a VPA animal model of autism. The therapeutic effects of AG in ameliorating ASD-like behaviors were previously reported in VPA rats. AG was gavaged at dosages of 0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 mg/kg from gestational day (GD) 6.5 to 18.5, and the number of PV interneurons was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in the 1-month-old rats. Prenatal VPA (GD 12.5) or AG led to a decrease of PV neurons in the PFC, Cornu ammonia (CA1), and molecular layers (MLs) of the cerebellum. However, exposure to AG restored the PV population induced by VPA. AG may modify underlying neuronal mechanisms resulting in the increased survival or restoration of the PV population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Mirzaee Khoram-Abadi
- Student Research Committee, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohsen Basiri
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mozhdeh Nemati
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Nozari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Janssen Daalen JM, Koopman WJH, Saris CGJ, Meinders MJ, Thijssen DHJ, Bloem BR. The Hypoxia Response Pathway: A Potential Intervention Target in Parkinson's Disease? Mov Disord 2024; 39:273-293. [PMID: 38140810 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29688] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder for which only symptomatic treatments are available. Both preclinical and clinical studies suggest that moderate hypoxia induces evolutionarily conserved adaptive mechanisms that enhance neuronal viability and survival. Therefore, targeting the hypoxia response pathway might provide neuroprotection by ameliorating the deleterious effects of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, which underlie neurodegeneration in PD. Here, we review experimental studies regarding the link between PD pathophysiology and neurophysiological adaptations to hypoxia. We highlight the mechanistic differences between the rescuing effects of chronic hypoxia in neurodegeneration and short-term moderate hypoxia to improve neuronal resilience, termed "hypoxic conditioning". Moreover, we interpret these preclinical observations regarding the pharmacological targeting of the hypoxia response pathway. Finally, we discuss controversies with respect to the differential effects of hypoxia response pathway activation across the PD spectrum, as well as intervention dosing in hypoxic conditioning and potential harmful effects of such interventions. We recommend that initial clinical studies in PD should focus on the safety, physiological responses, and mechanisms of hypoxic conditioning, as well as on repurposing of existing pharmacological compounds. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jules M Janssen Daalen
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Werner J H Koopman
- Department of Pediatrics, Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christiaan G J Saris
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marjan J Meinders
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dick H J Thijssen
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan R Bloem
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Saha P, Panda S, Holkar A, Vashishth R, Rana SS, Arumugam M, Ashraf GM, Haque S, Ahmad F. Neuroprotection by agmatine: Possible involvement of the gut microbiome? Ageing Res Rev 2023; 91:102056. [PMID: 37673131 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Agmatine, an endogenous polyamine derived from L-arginine, elicits tremendous multimodal neuromodulant properties. Alterations in agmatinergic signalling are closely linked to the pathogeneses of several brain disorders. Importantly, exogenous agmatine has been shown to act as a potent neuroprotectant in varied pathologies, including brain ageing and associated comorbidities. The antioxidant, anxiolytic, analgesic, antidepressant and memory-enhancing activities of agmatine may derive from its ability to regulate several cellular pathways; including cell metabolism, survival and differentiation, nitric oxide signalling, protein translation, oxidative homeostasis and neurotransmitter signalling. This review briefly discusses mammalian metabolism of agmatine and then proceeds to summarize our current understanding of neuromodulation and neuroprotection mediated by agmatine. Further, the emerging exciting bidirectional links between agmatine and the resident gut microbiome and their implications for brain pathophysiology and ageing are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Saha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Subhrajita Panda
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Aayusha Holkar
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Rahul Vashishth
- Department of Biosciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Sandeep Singh Rana
- Department of Biosciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Mohanapriya Arumugam
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- University of Sharjah, College of Health Sciences, and Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon; Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Faraz Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abstract
Major stress has systemic effects on the body that can have adverse consequences for physical and mental health. However, the molecular basis of these damaging effects remains incompletely understood. Here we use a longitudinal approach to characterise the acute systemic impact of major psychological stress in a pig model. We perform untargeted metabolomics on non-invasively obtained saliva samples from pigs before and 24 h after transfer to the novel physical and social environment of a slaughterhouse. The main molecular changes occurring include decreases in amino acids, B-vitamins, and amino acid-derived metabolites synthesized in B-vitamin-dependent reactions, as well as yet-unidentified metabolite features. Decreased levels of several of the identified metabolites are implicated in the pathology of human psychological disorders and neurodegenerative disease, suggesting a possible neuroprotective function. Our results provide a fingerprint of the acute effect of psychological stress on the metabolome and suggest candidate biomarkers with potential roles in stress-related disorders.
Collapse
|
5
|
Kosonen R, Barua S, Kim JY, Lee JE. Role of agmatine in the application of neural progenitor cell in central nervous system diseases: therapeutic potentials and effects. Anat Cell Biol 2021; 54:143-151. [PMID: 34162764 PMCID: PMC8225474 DOI: 10.5115/acb.21.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Agmatine, the primary decarboxylation product of L-arginine, generated from arginine decarboxylase. Since the discovery of agmatine in the mammalian brain in the 1990s, an increasing number of agmatine-mediated effects have been discovered, demonstrating the benefits of agmatine on ischemic strokes, traumatic brain injury and numerous psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Agmatine also has cellular protective effects and contributes to cell proliferation and differentiation in the central nervous system (CNS). Neural progenitor cells are an important component in the recovery and repair of many neurological disorders due to their ability to differentiate into functional adult neurons. Recent data has revealed that agmatine can regulate and increase proliferation and the fate of progenitor cells in the adult hippocampus. This review aims to summarise and discuss the role of agmatine in the CNS; specifically, the effects and relationship between agmatine and neural progenitor cells and how these ideas can be applied to potential therapeutic application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renée Kosonen
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Science, Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sumit Barua
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Youl Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Eun Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Science, Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Therapeutic Effect of Agmatine on Neurological Disease: Focus on Ion Channels and Receptors. Neurochem Res 2019; 44:735-750. [PMID: 30610652 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-018-02712-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) is the most injury-prone part of the mammalian body. Any acute or chronic, central or peripheral neurological disorder is related to abnormal biochemical and electrical signals in the brain cells. As a result, ion channels and receptors that are abundant in the nervous system and control the electrical and biochemical environment of the CNS play a vital role in neurological disease. The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, 2-amino-3-(5-methyl-3-oxo-1,2-oxazol-4-yl) propanoic acid receptor, kainate receptor, acetylcholine receptor, serotonin receptor, α2-adrenoreceptor, and acid-sensing ion channels are among the major channels and receptors known to be key components of pathophysiological events in the CNS. The primary amine agmatine, a neuromodulator synthesized in the brain by decarboxylation of L-arginine, can regulate ion channel cascades and receptors that are related to the major CNS disorders. In our previous studies, we established that agmatine was related to the regulation of cell differentiation, nitric oxide synthesis, and murine brain endothelial cell migration, relief of chronic pain, cerebral edema, and apoptotic cell death in experimental CNS disorders. In this review, we will focus on the pathophysiological aspects of the neurological disorders regulated by these ion channels and receptors, and their interaction with agmatine in CNS injury.
Collapse
|
7
|
Camargo A, Rodrigues ALS. Novel Targets for Fast Antidepressant Responses: Possible Role of Endogenous Neuromodulators. CHRONIC STRESS (THOUSAND OAKS, CALIF.) 2019; 3:2470547019858083. [PMID: 32440595 PMCID: PMC7219953 DOI: 10.1177/2470547019858083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The available medications for the treatment of major depressive disorder have limitations, particularly their limited efficacy, delayed therapeutic effects, and the side effects associated with treatment. These issues highlight the need for better therapeutic agents that provide more efficacious and faster effects for the management of this disorder. Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, is the prototype for novel glutamate-based antidepressants that has been shown to cause a rapid and sustained antidepressant effect even in severe refractory depressive patients. Considering the importance of these findings, several studies have been conducted to elucidate the molecular targets for ketamine's effect. In addition, efforts are under way to characterize ketamine-like drugs. This review focuses particularly on evidence that endogenous glutamatergic neuromodulators may be able to modulate mood and to elicit fast antidepressant responses. Among these molecules, agmatine and creatine stand out as those with more published evidence of similarities with ketamine, but guanosine and ascorbic acid have also provided promising results. The possibility that these neuromodulators and ketamine have common neurobiological mechanisms, mainly the ability to activate mechanistic target of rapamycin and brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling, and synthesis of synaptic proteins in the prefrontal cortex and/or hippocampus is presented and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anderson Camargo
- Neuroscience Postgraduate Program,
Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina,
Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia S. Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of
Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis,
Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xu W, Gao L, Li T, Shao A, Zhang J. Neuroprotective Role of Agmatine in Neurological Diseases. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:1296-1305. [PMID: 28786346 PMCID: PMC6251039 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666170808120633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neurological diseases have always been one of the leading cause of mobility and mortality world-widely. However, it is still lacking efficient agents. Agmatine, an endogenous polyamine, exerts its diverse biological characteristics and therapeutic potential in varied aspects. Methods: This review would focus on the neuroprotective actions of agmatine and its potential mechanisms in the setting of neurological diseases. Results: Numerous studies had demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of agmatine in varied types of neurological diseases, including acute attack (stroke and trauma brain injury) and chronic neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's disease, Alz-heimer’s disease). The potential mechanism of agmatine induced neuroprotection includes anti-oxidation, anti-apoptosis, anti-inflammation, brain blood barrier (BBB) protection and brain edema prevention. Conclusions: The safety and low incidence of adverse effects indicate the vast potential therapeutic value of agmatine in the treatment of neurological diseases. However, most of the available studies relate to the agmatine are conducted in experi-mental models, more clinical trials are needed before the agmatine could be extensively clinically used
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weilin Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liansheng Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianmin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Brain Research Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Neis VB, Rosa PB, Olescowicz G, Rodrigues ALS. Therapeutic potential of agmatine for CNS disorders. Neurochem Int 2017; 108:318-331. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
10
|
Agmatine: multifunctional arginine metabolite and magic bullet in clinical neuroscience? Biochem J 2017; 474:2619-2640. [DOI: 10.1042/bcj20170007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Agmatine, the decarboxylation product of arginine, was largely neglected as an important player in mammalian metabolism until the mid-1990s, when it was re-discovered as an endogenous ligand of imidazoline and α2-adrenergic receptors. Since then, a wide variety of agmatine-mediated effects have been observed, and consequently agmatine has moved from a wallflower existence into the limelight of clinical neuroscience research. Despite this quantum jump in scientific interest, the understanding of the anabolism and catabolism of this amine is still vague. The purification and biochemical characterization of natural mammalian arginine decarboxylase and agmatinase still are open issues. Nevertheless, the agmatinergic system is currently one of the most promising candidates in order to pharmacologically interfere with some major diseases of the central nervous system, which are summarized in the present review. Particularly with respect to major depression, agmatine, its derivatives, and metabolizing enzymes show great promise for the development of an improved treatment of this common disease.
Collapse
|
11
|
Hosseini M, Anaeigoudari A, Beheshti F, Soukhtanloo M, Nosratabadi R. Protective effect against brain tissues oxidative damage as a possible mechanism for beneficial effects of L-arginine on lipopolysaccharide induced memory impairment in rats. Drug Chem Toxicol 2017. [PMID: 28640652 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2017.1336173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
L-Arginine (LA) and nitric oxide (NO) have been suggested to have some effects on learning, memory, brain tissues oxidative damage, and neuroinflammation. In this study, protective effect against brain tissues oxidative damage as a possible mechanism for beneficial effects of LA on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced memory impairment was investigated. The rats were grouped into and treated by (1) control (saline), (2) LPS (1 mg/kg, IP), (3) LA (200 mg/kg) - LPS (4) LA. In passive avoidance (PA) test, LPS administration shortened the latency to enter the dark compartment in LPS group compared to control (p < .001) which was accompanied with a high level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and NO metabolite concentrations in the hippocampal tissues (p < .001and p < .05, respectively). Pretreatment with LA prolonged the latency in LA-LPS group compared with LPS group (p < .01-.001) and re-stored MDA and NO metabolites in the hippocampal tissues (p < .05). LPS also reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities and thiol content in the hippocampal tissues in LPS group compared to control (p < .05 and p < .001, respectively) which improved by LA when it was administered before LPS in LA-LPS group (p < .05 and p < .001). Finally, the serum TNFα level of LPS group was higher than the control (p < .01) while, in LA-LPS group it was lower than LPS group (p < .01). It seems that the beneficial effects of LA on memory impairment of LPS-treated rats may be due to its protective effects against brain tissues oxidative damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Hosseini
- a Division of Neurocognitive Sciences , Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Akbar Anaeigoudari
- b Department of Physiology, School of Medicine , Jiroft University of medical Sciences , Jiroft , Iran
| | - Farimah Beheshti
- c Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine , Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Mohammad Soukhtanloo
- d Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine , Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Reza Nosratabadi
- e Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center , Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences , Rafsanjan , Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Taksande BG, Gawande DY, Chopde CT, Umekar MJ, Kotagale NR. Agmatine ameliorates adjuvant induced arthritis and inflammatory cachexia in rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 86:271-278. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
|
13
|
Freitas AE, Neis VB, Rodrigues ALS. Agmatine, a potential novel therapeutic strategy for depression. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2016; 26:1885-1899. [PMID: 27836390 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2016.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is the most common psychiatric disorder with lifetime prevalence of up to 20% worldwide. It is responsible for more years lost to disability than any other disorder. Despite the fact that current available antidepressant drugs are safe and effective, they are far from ideal. In addition to the need to administer the drugs for weeks or months to obtain clinical benefit, side effects are still a serious problem. Agmatine is an endogenous polyamine synthesized by the enzyme arginine decarboxylase. It modulates several receptors and is considered as a neuromodulator in the brain. In this review, studies demonstrating the antidepressant effects of agmatine are presented and discussed, as well as, the mechanisms of action related to these effects. Also, the potential beneficial effects of agmatine for the treatment of other neurological disorders are presented. In particular, we provide evidence to encourage future clinical studies investigating agmatine as a novel antidepressant drug.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andiara E Freitas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, Trindade, 88040-900 Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
| | - Vivian B Neis
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, Trindade, 88040-900 Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia S Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitário, Trindade, 88040-900 Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cunha AS, Matheus FC, Moretti M, Sampaio TB, Poli A, Santos DB, Colle D, Cunha MP, Blum-Silva CH, Sandjo LP, Reginatto FH, Rodrigues ALS, Farina M, Prediger RD. Agmatine attenuates reserpine-induced oral dyskinesia in mice: Role of oxidative stress, nitric oxide and glutamate NMDA receptors. Behav Brain Res 2016; 312:64-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
15
|
Skatchkov SN, Antonov SM, Eaton MJ. Glia and glial polyamines. Role in brain function in health and disease. BIOCHEMISTRY MOSCOW SUPPLEMENT SERIES A-MEMBRANE AND CELL BIOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1134/s1990747816010116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
16
|
Song J, Lee B, Kang S, Oh Y, Kim E, Kim CH, Song HT, Lee JE. Agmatine Ameliorates High Glucose-Induced Neuronal Cell Senescence by Regulating the p21 and p53 Signaling. Exp Neurobiol 2016; 25:24-32. [PMID: 26924930 PMCID: PMC4766111 DOI: 10.5607/en.2016.25.1.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal senescence caused by diabetic neuropathy is considered a common complication of diabetes mellitus. Neuronal senescence leads to the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the production of reactive oxygen species, and the alteration of cellular homeostasis. Agmatine, which is biosynthesized by arginine decarboxylation, has been reported in previous in vitro to exert a protective effect against various stresses. In present study, agmatine attenuated the cell death and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, TNF-alpha and CCL2 in high glucose in vitro conditions. Moreover, the senescence associated-β-galatosidase's activity in high glucose exposed neuronal cells was reduced by agmatine. Increased p21 and reduced p53 in high glucose conditioned cells were changed by agmatine. Ultimately, agmatine inhibits the neuronal cell senescence through the activation of p53 and the inhibition of p21. Here, we propose that agmatine may ameliorate neuronal cell senescence in hyperglycemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juhyun Song
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Byeori Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Somang Kang
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea.; BK21 Plus Project for Medical Sciences, and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Yumi Oh
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea.; BK21 Plus Project for Medical Sciences, and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Eosu Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Chul-Hoon Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Ho-Taek Song
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jong Eun Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea.; BK21 Plus Project for Medical Sciences, and Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Anaeigoudari A, Shafei MN, Soukhtanloo M, Sadeghnia HR, Reisi P, Nosratabadi R, Behradnia S, Hosseini M. The effects of L-arginine on spatial memory and synaptic plasticity impairments induced by lipopolysaccharide. Adv Biomed Res 2015; 4:202. [PMID: 26601090 PMCID: PMC4620614 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.166138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: An important role of nitric oxide (NO) in neuroinflammation has been suggested. It is also suggested that NO has a critical role in learning and memory. Neuro-inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has been reported that deteriorates learning and memory. The effect of L-arginine (LA) as a precursor of NO on LPS-induced spatial learning and memory and neuronal plasticity impairment was evaluated. Materials and Methods: The animals were grouped into: (1) Control, (2) LPS, (3) LA-LPS, and (4) LA. The rats received intraperitoneally LPS (1 mg/kg) 2 h before experiments and LA (200 mg/kg) 30 min before LPS. The animals were examined in Morris water maze (MWM). Long-term potentiation (LTP) from CA1 area of the hippocampus was also assessed by 100 Hz stimulation in the ipsilateral Schaffer collateral pathway. Results: In MWM, time latency and traveled path were higher in LPS group than the control group (P < 0.001) whereas in LA-LPS group they were shorter than LPS group (P < 0.001). The amplitude and slope of field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) decreased in LPS group compared to control group (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01) whereas, there was not any significant difference in these parameters between LPS and LA-LPS groups. Conclusion: Administration of LPS impaired spatial memory and synaptic plasticity. Although LA ameliorated deleterious effects of LPS on learning of spatial tasks, it could not restore LPS-induced LTP impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akbar Anaeigoudari
- Neurocognitive Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Naser Shafei
- Neurocognitive Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soukhtanloo
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Sadeghnia
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Parham Reisi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Nosratabadi
- Immunology Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sepehr Behradnia
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Hosseini
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Agmatine Protects Against 6-OHDA-Induced Apoptosis, and ERK and Akt/GSK Disruption in SH-SY5Y Cells. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2015; 36:829-838. [PMID: 26346882 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-015-0266-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), a metabolite of dopamine is known to induce dopaminergic cell toxicity which makes that a suitable agent inducing an experimental model of Parkinson's disease (PD). Agmatine has been shown to protect against some cellular and animal PD models. This study was aimed to assess whether agmatine prevents 6-OHDA-induced SH-SY5Y cell death and if yes, then how it affects Akt/glycogen synthesis kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) signals. The cells were treated with different drugs, and their viability was examined via MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay and morphological observation. Western blot studies were done to assess cleaved caspase-3, Akt/GSK-3β, and ERK proteins. 6-OHDA-induced cell death and caspase-3 cleavage, while agmatine prevented those changes. 6-OHDA also decreased the amount of phosphorylated Akt (pAkt)/Akt while increased GSK-3β activity which was prevented by agmatine. Additionally, this toxin increased pERK/ERK ratio which was averted again by agmatine. The PI3/Akt inhibitor, LY294002, impeded the changes induced by agmatine, while ERK inhibitor (PD98059) did not disturb the effects of agmatine, and by itself, it preserved the cells against 6-OHDA toxicity. This study revealed that agmatine is protective in 6-OHDA model of PD and affects Akt/GSK-3β and ERK pathways.
Collapse
|
19
|
Moretti M, Neis VB, Matheus FC, Cunha MP, Rosa PB, Ribeiro CM, Rodrigues ALS, Prediger RD. Effects of Agmatine on Depressive-Like Behavior Induced by Intracerebroventricular Administration of 1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)). Neurotox Res 2015; 28:222-31. [PMID: 26156429 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-015-9540-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Revised: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Considering that depression is a common non-motor comorbidity of Parkinson's disease and that agmatine is an endogenous neuromodulator that emerges as a potential agent to manage diverse central nervous system disorders, this study investigated the antidepressant-like effect of agmatine in mice intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) injected with the dopaminergic neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)). Male C57BL6 mice were treated with agmatine (0.0001, 0.1 or 1 mg/kg) and 60 min later the animals received an i.c.v. injection of MPP(+) (1.8 µg/site). Twenty-four hours after MPP(+) administration, immobility time, anhedonic behavior, and locomotor activity were evaluated in the tail suspension test (TST), splash test, and open field test, respectively. Using Western blot analysis, we investigated the putative modulation of MPP(+) and agmatine on striatal and frontal cortex levels of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). MPP(+) increased the immobility time of mice in the TST, as well as induced an anhedonic-like behavior in the splash test, effects which were prevented by pre-treatment with agmatine at the three tested doses. Neither drug, alone or in combination, altered the locomotor activity of mice. I.c.v. administration of MPP(+) increased the striatal immunocontent of TH, an effect prevented by the three tested doses of agmatine. MPP(+) and agmatine did not alter the immunocontent of BDNF in striatum and frontal cortex. These results demonstrate for the first time the antidepressant-like effects of agmatine in an animal model of depressive-like behavior induced by the dopaminergic neurotoxin MPP(+).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgana Moretti
- Department of Pharmacology, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88049-900, Brazil,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Agmatine attenuates lipopolysaccharide induced anorexia and sickness behavior in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2015; 132:108-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2015.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2014] [Revised: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
|
21
|
Fasick V, Spengler RN, Samankan S, Nader ND, Ignatowski TA. The hippocampus and TNF: Common links between chronic pain and depression. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 53:139-59. [PMID: 25857253 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Major depression and chronic pain are significant health problems that seriously impact the quality of life of affected individuals. These diseases that individually are difficult to treat often co-exist, thereby compounding the patient's disability and impairment as well as the challenge of successful treatment. The development of efficacious treatments for these comorbid disorders requires a more comprehensive understanding of their linked associations through common neuromodulators, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), and various neurotransmitters, as well as common neuroanatomical pathways and structures, including the hippocampal brain region. This review discusses the interaction between depression and chronic pain, emphasizing the fundamental role of the hippocampus in the development and maintenance of both disorders. The focus of this review addresses the hypothesis that hippocampal expressed TNFα serves as a therapeutic target for management of chronic pain and major depressive disorder (MDD).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Fasick
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
| | | | - Shabnam Samankan
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
| | - Nader D Nader
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States; Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States
| | - Tracey A Ignatowski
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States; NanoAxis, LLC, Clarence, NY 14031, United States; Program for Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
This review focuses on the roles of glia and polyamines (PAs) in brain function and dysfunction, highlighting how PAs are one of the principal differences between glia and neurons. The novel role of PAs, such as putrescine, spermidine, and spermine and their precursors and derivatives, is discussed. However, PAs have not yet been a focus of much glial research. They affect many neuronal and glial receptors, channels, and transporters. They are therefore key elements in the development of many diseases and syndromes, thus forming the rationale for PA-focused and glia-focused therapy for these conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serguei N Skatchkov
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Universidad, Central del Caribe, PO Box 60-327, Bayamón, PR 00960-6032, USA; Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad, Central del Caribe, PO Box 60-327, Bayamón, PR 00960-6032, USA.
| | - Michel A Woodbury-Fariña
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, 307 Calle Eleonor Roosevelt, San Juan, PR 00918-2720, USA
| | - Misty Eaton
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Universidad, Central del Caribe, PO Box 60-327, Bayamón, PR 00960-6032, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Freitas AE, Egea J, Buendía I, Navarro E, Rada P, Cuadrado A, Rodrigues ALS, López MG. Agmatine induces Nrf2 and protects against corticosterone effects in hippocampal neuronal cell line. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 51:1504-19. [PMID: 25084759 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8827-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hyperactivation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is a common finding in major depression; this may lead to increased levels of cortisol, which are known to cause oxidative stress imbalance and apoptotic neuronal cell death, particularly in the hippocampus, a key region implicated in mood regulation. Agmatine, an endogenous metabolite of L-arginine, has been proposed for the treatment of major depression. Corticosterone induced apoptotic cell death and increased ROS production in cultured hippocampal neuronal cells, effects that were abolished in a concentration- and time-dependent manner by agmatine. Interestingly, the combination of sub-effective concentrations of agmatine with fluoxetine or imipramine afforded synergic protection. The neuroprotective effect of agmatine was abolished by yohimbine (α2-adrenoceptor antagonist), ketanserin (5-HT2A receptor antagonist), LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor), PD98059 (MEK1/2 inhibitor), SnPP (HO-1 inhibitor), and cycloheximide (protein synthesis inhibitor). Agmatine increased Akt and ERK phosphorylation and induced the transcription factor Nrf2 and the proteins HO-1 and GCLc; induction of these proteins was prevented by yohimbine, ketanserin, LY294002, and PD98059. In conclusion, agmatine affords neuroprotection against corticosterone effects by a mechanism that implicates Nrf2 induction via α2-adrenergic and 5-HT2A receptors, Akt and ERK pathways, and HO-1 and GCLc expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andiara E Freitas
- Instituto Teofilo Hernando, Departamento de Farmacología y Terapéutica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 4-28029, Madrid, Spain,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Moosavi M, Zarifkar AH, Farbood Y, Dianat M, Sarkaki A, Ghasemi R. Agmatine protects against intracerebroventricular streptozotocin-induced water maze memory deficit, hippocampal apoptosis and Akt/GSK3β signaling disruption. Eur J Pharmacol 2014; 736:107-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2014.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
25
|
Piletz JE, Aricioglu F, Cheng JT, Fairbanks CA, Gilad VH, Haenisch B, Halaris A, Hong S, Lee JE, Li J, Liu P, Molderings GJ, Rodrigues ALS, Satriano J, Seong GJ, Wilcox G, Wu N, Gilad GM. Agmatine: clinical applications after 100 years in translation. Drug Discov Today 2013; 18:880-93. [PMID: 23769988 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2013.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2013] [Revised: 04/27/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Agmatine (decarboxylated arginine) has been known as a natural product for over 100 years, but its biosynthesis in humans was left unexplored owing to long-standing controversy. Only recently has the demonstration of agmatine biosynthesis in mammals revived research, indicating its exceptional modulatory action at multiple molecular targets, including neurotransmitter systems, nitric oxide (NO) synthesis and polyamine metabolism, thus providing bases for broad therapeutic applications. This timely review, a concerted effort by 16 independent research groups, draws attention to the substantial preclinical and initial clinical evidence, and highlights challenges and opportunities, for the use of agmatine in treating a spectrum of complex diseases with unmet therapeutic needs, including diabetes mellitus, neurotrauma and neurodegenerative diseases, opioid addiction, mood disorders, cognitive disorders and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John E Piletz
- Department of Biology, Mississippi College, Clinton, MS 39058, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Neuroprotective effects of agmatine in mice infused with a single intranasal administration of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Behav Brain Res 2012; 235:263-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2012.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2012] [Revised: 08/09/2012] [Accepted: 08/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
27
|
Molderings GJ, Haenisch B. Agmatine (decarboxylated l-arginine): Physiological role and therapeutic potential. Pharmacol Ther 2012; 133:351-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2011.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
|
28
|
Moosavi M, Khales GY, Abbasi L, Zarifkar A, Rastegar K. Agmatine protects against scopolamine-induced water maze performance impairment and hippocampal ERK and Akt inactivation. Neuropharmacology 2012; 62:2018-23. [PMID: 22248637 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2011] [Revised: 12/27/2011] [Accepted: 12/29/2011] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cholinergic brain activity plays a significant role in memory. Scopolamine a muscarinic cholinergic antagonist is known to induce impairment in Morris water maze performance, the task which is mainly dependent on the hippocampus. It is suggested that hippocampal ERK and Akt activation play roles in synaptic plasticity and some types of learning and memory. Agmatine, a polyamine derived from l-arginine decarboxylation, is recently shown to exert some neuroprotective effects. This study was aimed to investigate if agmatine could reverse scopolamine-induced memory impairment and possible hippocampal ERK and Akt activity alteration. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-250 g were randomly assigned into 5 groups. The animals were trained for 3 days in Morris water maze and in day 4 their memory retention was assessed in probe trial which was consisted of a 60 s trial with no platform. Scopolamine (1 mg/kg/ip) or saline were injected 30 min and agmatine (20 or 40 mg/kg/ip) was administered 60 min before each session. The hippocampi were isolated after behavioral studies and western blotting studies on hippocampal lysates were done to determine the levels of activated ERK and Akt. Scopolamine treatment not only impaired water maze learning and memory, but also decreased the amount of phosphorylated (activated) ERK and Akt. Agmatine pre-treatment prevented both the learning impairment and hippocampal ERK and Akt inactivation induced by scopolamine. It seems that agmatine may act as a candidate substance against amnesia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Moosavi
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center and department of Physiology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Zand Street, Shiraz, Iran.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
The pharmacological importance of agmatine in the brain. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2012; 36:502-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2011.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2011] [Revised: 06/23/2011] [Accepted: 08/18/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
|
30
|
Psychopharmacological study of agmatine in behavioral tests of schizophrenia in rodents. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2012; 100:398-403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2011.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2011] [Revised: 08/22/2011] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
31
|
Protective effects of agmatine in rotenone-induced damage of human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis in a model of Parkinson’s disease. Amino Acids 2011; 42:775-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-011-0994-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
32
|
Condello S, Currò M, Ferlazzo N, Caccamo D, Satriano J, Ientile R. Agmatine effects on mitochondrial membrane potential and NF-κB activation protect against rotenone-induced cell damage in human neuronal-like SH-SY5Y cells. J Neurochem 2010; 116:67-75. [PMID: 21044082 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.07085.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Agmatine, an endogenous arginine metabolite, has been proposed as a novel neuromodulator that plays protective roles in the CNS in several models of cellular damage. However, the mechanisms involved in these protective effects in neurodegenerative diseases are poorly understood. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of agmatine on cell injury induced by rotenone, commonly used in establishing in vivo and in vitro models of Parkinson's disease, in human-derived dopaminergic neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y). We report that agmatine dose-dependently suppressed rotenone-induced cellular injury through a reduction of oxidative stress. Similar effects were obtained by spermine, suggesting a scavenging effect for these compounds. However, unlike spermine, agmatine also prevented rotenone-induced nuclear factor-κB nuclear translocation and mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation. Furthermore, rotenone-induced increase in apoptotic markers, such as caspase 3 activity, Bax expression and cytochrome c release, was significantly attenuated with agmatine treatment. These findings demonstrate mitochondrial preservation with agmatine in a rotenone model of apoptotic cell death, and that the neuroprotective action of agmatine appears because of suppressing apoptotic signalling mechanisms. Thus, agmatine may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of Parkinson's disease by protecting dopaminergic neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Condello
- Department of Biochemical, Physiological and Nutritional Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zarifkar A, Choopani S, Ghasemi R, Naghdi N, Maghsoudi AH, Maghsoudi N, Rastegar K, Moosavi M. Agmatine prevents LPS-induced spatial memory impairment and hippocampal apoptosis. Eur J Pharmacol 2010; 634:84-8. [PMID: 20184876 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2010.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2009] [Revised: 01/28/2010] [Accepted: 02/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is associated with a number of neurodegenerative diseases. It is known that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment induces neuroinflammation and memory deterioration. Agmatine, the metabolite of arginine by arginine decarboxylase, is suggested to be a neuroprotective agent. The aim of this study was to explore if agmatine can prevent LPS-induced spatial memory impairment and hippocampal apoptosis. Adult male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were trained in water maze for 4 days (3 days in hidden platform and the last day in visible platform task). Saline, LPS (250 microg/kg/ip) or (and) agmatine (5 or 10 mg/kg) were administered 4h before every training session. LPS treatment impaired water maze place learning while agmatine co-administration prevented it. Also western blot studies revealed that LPS induces hippocampal caspase-3 activation while agmatine treatment prevented it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asadollah Zarifkar
- Neuroscience Research Center and department of Physiology, Shiraz University of Medical sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Jenner P. Functional models of Parkinson's disease: a valuable tool in the development of novel therapies. Ann Neurol 2009; 64 Suppl 2:S16-29. [PMID: 19127585 DOI: 10.1002/ana.21489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Functional models of Parkinson's disease (PD) have led to effective treatment for the motor symptoms. Toxin-based models, such as the 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned rat and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-treated primate, have resulted in novel dopaminergic therapies and new therapeutic strategies. They have also been used to study processes underlying motor complications, particularly dyskinesia, and for developing pharmacological approaches to dyskinesia avoidance and suppression. Symptomatic models of PD based on nigrostriatal degeneration have a high degree of predictability of clinical effect of dopaminergic drugs on motor symptoms in humans. However, the effects of nondopaminergic drugs in these models do not translate effectively into clinical efficacy. Newer experimental models of PD have attempted to reproduce the pathogenic process and to involve all areas of the brain pathologically affected in humans. In addition, models showing progressive neuronal death have been sought but so far unsuccessfully. Pathogenic modeling has been attempted using a range of toxins, as well as through the use of transgenic models of gene defects in familial PD and mutant rodent strains. However, there are still no accepted progressive models of PD that mimic the processes known to occur during cell death and that result in the motor deficits, pathology, biochemistry, and drug responsiveness as seen in humans. Nevertheless, functional models of PD have led to many advances in treating the motor symptoms of the disorder, and we have been fortunate to have them available. They are an important reason the treatment of PD is so much better compared with treatments for related illnesses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Jenner
- Neurodegenerative Disease Research Centre, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, King's College, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Agmatine is an endogenous neuromodulator that, based on animal studies, has the potential for new drug development. As an endogenous aminoguanidine compound (1-amino-4-guanidinobutane), it is structurally unique compared with other monoamines. Agmatine was long thought to be synthesised only in lower life forms, until its biosynthetic pathway (decarboxylation of arginine) was described in the mammalian brain in 1994. Human arginine decarboxylase has been cloned and shown to have 48% identity to ornithine decarboxylase. In neurons of the brain and spinal cord, agmatine is packaged into synaptic vesicles and released upon neuronal depolarisation. Other evidence of a neuromodulation role for agmatine is the presence of a specific cellular uptake mechanism and a specific metabolic enzyme (agmatinase; which forms putrescine).Initially, agmatine was conceptualised as an endogenous clonidine-displacing substance of imidazoline receptors; however, it has now been established to have affinity for several transmembrane receptors, such as alpha(2)-adrenergic, imidazoline I(1) and glutamatergic NMDA receptors. In addition to activity at these receptors, agmatine irreversibly inhibits neuronal nitric oxide synthase and downregulates inducible nitric oxide synthase. Endogenous agmatine is induced in response to stress and/or inflammation. Stressful conditions that induce agmatine include hypoxic-ischaemia and cold-restraint stress of ulcerogenic proportion. Induction of agmatine in the brain seems to occur in astrocytes, although neurons also synthesise agmatine. The effects of injected agmatine in animals include anticonvulsant-, antineurotoxic- and antidepressant-like actions. Intraperitoneal or intracerebroventricular injections of agmatine rapidly elicit antidepressant-like behavioural changes in the rodent forced swim test and tail suspension test. Intraperitoneal injections of agmatine into rats and mice also elicit acute anxiolytic-like behavioural changes in the elevated plus-maze stress test. In an animal model of acute stress disorder, intraperitoneal agmatine injections diminish contextual fear learning. Furthermore, intraperitoneal injections of agmatine reduce alcohol and opioid dependence by diminishing behaviour in a rat conditioned place preference paradigm. Based on these findings, agmatine appears to be an endogenous neuromodulator of mental stress. The possible roles and/or beneficial effects of agmatine in stress-related disorders, such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, merit further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angelos Halaris
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois 60153, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Physiological polyamines are ubiquitous polycations with pleiotropic biochemical activities, including regulation of gene expression, cell proliferation and modulation of cell signalling. Reports that the polyamines with cytoprotective activities were induced by diverse stresses raised the hypothesis that physiological polyamines may play a role in inducing stress response. In a wide range of organisms, physiological polyamines were not only induced by diverse stresses, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), heat, ultraviolet (UV) and psychiatric stress but were able to confer beneficial effects for survival. Recent biochemical and genetic evidences show that polyamines can function as an ROS scavenger, acid tolerance factor and chemical chaperone, and positive regulators for expression of stress response genes which may explain their protective functions against diverse stresses. Taken together, these data suggest that physiological polyamines can function as primordial stress molecules in bacteria, plants and mammals, and may play an essential role in regulation of pathogen-host interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H J Rhee
- Department of Life Science and Interdisciplinary Program of Integrated Biotechnology, Sogang University, Seoul 121-742, Korea.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hong S, Lee JE, Kim CY, Seong GJ. Agmatine protects retinal ganglion cells from hypoxia-induced apoptosis in transformed rat retinal ganglion cell line. BMC Neurosci 2007; 8:81. [PMID: 17908330 PMCID: PMC2089075 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-8-81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2007] [Accepted: 10/02/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Agmatine is an endogenous polyamine formed by the decarboxylation of L-arginine. We investigated the protective effects of agmatine against hypoxia-induced apoptosis of immortalized rat retinal ganglion cells (RGC-5). RGC-5 cells were cultured in a closed hypoxic chamber (5% O2) with or without agmatine. Cell viability was determined by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay and apoptosis was examined by annexin V and caspase-3 assays. Expression and phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs; JNK, ERK p44/42, and p38) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) were investigated by Western immunoblot analysis. The effects of agmatine were compared to those of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a well-known protective neurotrophin for retinal ganglion cells. RESULTS After 48 hours of hypoxic culture, the LDH assay showed 52.3% cell loss, which was reduced to 25.6% and 30.1% when agmatine and BDNF were administered, respectively. This observed cell loss was due to apoptotic cell death, as established by annexin V and caspase-3 assays. Although total expression of MAPKs and NF-kappaB was not influenced by hypoxic injury, phosphorylation of these two proteins was increased. Agmatine reduced phosphorylation of JNK and NF-kappaB, while BDNF suppressed phosphorylation of ERK and p38. CONCLUSION Our results show that agmatine has neuroprotective effects against hypoxia-induced retinal ganglion cell damage in RGC-5 cells and that its effects may act through the JNK and NF-kappaB signaling pathways. Our data suggest that agmatine may lead to a novel therapeutic strategy to reduce retinal ganglion cell injury related to hypoxia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samin Hong
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Eun Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chan Yun Kim
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gong Je Seong
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|