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Kouba BR, Altê GA, Rodrigues ALS. Putative Pharmacological Depression and Anxiety-Related Targets of Calcitriol Explored by Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:893. [PMID: 39065743 PMCID: PMC11280388 DOI: 10.3390/ph17070893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Depression and anxiety disorders, prevalent neuropsychiatric conditions that frequently coexist, limit psychosocial functioning and, consequently, the individual's quality of life. Since the pharmacological treatment of these disorders has several limitations, the search for effective and secure antidepressant and anxiolytic compounds is welcome. Vitamin D has been shown to exhibit neuroprotective, antidepressant, and anxiolytic properties. Therefore, this study aimed to explore new molecular targets of calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, through integrated bioinformatic analysis. Calcitriol targets were predicted in SwissTargetPrediction server (2019 version). The disease targets were collected by the GeneCards database searching the keywords "depression" and "anxiety". Gene ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were used to analyze the intersections of targets. Network analyses were carried out using GeneMania server (2023 version) and Cytoscape (V. 3.9.1.) software. Molecular docking predicted the main targets of the network and Ligplot predicted the main intermolecular interactions. Our study showed that calcitriol may interact with multiple targets. The main targets found are the vitamin D receptor (VDR), histamine H3 receptor (H3R), endocannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), nuclear receptor NR1H3, patched-1 (PTCH1) protein, opioid receptor NOP, and phosphodiesterase enzymes PDE3A and PDE5A. Considering the role of these targets in the pathophysiology of depression and anxiety, our findings suggest novel putative mechanisms of action of vitamin D as well as new promising molecular targets whose role in these disorders deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ana Lúcia S. Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis 88037-000, SC, Brazil; (B.R.K.); (G.A.A.)
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2
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Hueske E, Stine C, Yoshida T, Crittenden JR, Gupta A, Johnson JC, Achanta AS, Loftus J, Mahar A, Hul D, Azocar J, Gray RJ, Bruchas MR, Graybiel AM. Developmental and adult striatal patterning of nociceptin ligand marks striosomal population with direct dopamine projections. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.15.594426. [PMID: 38798373 PMCID: PMC11118414 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.15.594426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Circuit influences on the midbrain dopamine system are crucial to adaptive behavior and cognition. Recent developments in the study of neuropeptide systems have enabled high-resolution investigations of the intersection of neuromodulatory signals with basal ganglia circuitry, identifying the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) endogenous opioid peptide system as a prospective regulator of striatal dopamine signaling. Using a prepronociceptin-Cre reporter mouse line, we characterized highly selective striosomal patterning of Pnoc mRNA expression in mouse dorsal striatum, reflecting early developmental expression of Pnoc . In the ventral striatum, Pnoc expression was was clustered across the nucleus accumbens core and medial shell, including in adult striatum. We found that Pnoc tdTomato reporter cells largely comprise a population of dopamine receptor D1 ( Drd1 ) expressing medium spiny projection neurons localized in dorsal striosomes, known to be unique among striatal projections neurons for their direct innervation of midbrain dopamine neurons. These findings provide new understanding of the intersection of the N/OFQ system among basal ganglia circuits with particular implications for developmental regulation or wiring of striatal-nigral circuits.
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3
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Wołyniak M, Małecka-Wojciesko E, Zielińska M, Fabisiak A. A Crosstalk between the Cannabinoid Receptors and Nociceptin Receptors in Colitis-Clinical Implications. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11226675. [PMID: 36431153 PMCID: PMC9696262 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) refer to a group of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders with complex pathogenesis characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation with a variety of symptoms. Cannabinoid and nociceptin opioid receptors (NOPs) and their ligands are widely distributed in the GI tract. The nociceptin opioid receptor is a newly discovered member of the opioid receptor family with unique characteristics. Both cannabinoid and NOP systems exhibit antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity and contribute to maintaining proper motility, secretion and absorption in the GI tract. Furthermore, they influence high and low voltage calcium channels, which play a crucial role in the processing of pain, and share at least two kinases mediating their action. Among them there is NF-κB, a key factor in the regulation of inflammatory processes. Therefore, based on functional similarities between cannabinoid and nociceptin receptors and the anti-inflammatory effects exerted by their ligands, there is a high likelihood that there is an interaction between cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 and the nociceptin receptor in colitis. In this review, we discuss potential overlaps between these two systems on a molecular and functional level in intestinal inflammation to create the basis for novel treatments of IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Wołyniak
- Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewa Małecka-Wojciesko
- Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Marta Zielińska
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland
| | - Adam Fabisiak
- Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-42-677-66-64
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4
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Al Yacoub ON, Awwad HO, Zhang Y, Standifer KM. Therapeutic potential of nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor modulators for treatment of traumatic brain injury, traumatic stress, and their co-morbidities. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 231:107982. [PMID: 34480968 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor is a member of the opioid receptor superfamily with N/OFQ as its endogenous agonist. Wide expression of the NOP receptor and N/OFQ, both centrally and peripherally, and their ability to modulate several biological functions has led to development of NOP receptor modulators by pharmaceutical companies as therapeutics, based upon their efficacy in preclinical models of pain, anxiety, depression, Parkinson's disease, and substance abuse. Both posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are debilitating conditions that significantly affect the quality of life of millions of people around the world. PTSD is often a consequence of TBI, and, especially for those deployed to, working and/or living in a war zone or are first responders, they are comorbid. PTSD and TBI share common symptoms, and negatively influence outcomes as comorbidities of the other. Unfortunately, a lack of effective therapies or therapeutic agents limits the long term quality of life for either TBI or PTSD patients. Ours, and other groups, demonstrated that PTSD and TBI preclinical models elicit changes in the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system, and that administration of NOP receptor ligands alleviated some of the neurobiological and behavioral changes induced by brain injury and/or traumatic stress exposure. Here we review the past and most recent progress on understanding the role of the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in PTSD and TBI neurological and behavioral sequelae. There is still more to understand about this neuropeptide system in both PTSD and TBI, but current findings warrant further examination of the potential utility of NOP modulators as therapeutics for these disorders and their co-morbidities. We advocate the development of standards for common data elements (CDE) reporting for preclinical PTSD studies, similar to current preclinical TBI CDEs. That would provide for more standardized data collection and reporting to improve reproducibility, interpretation and data sharing across studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar N Al Yacoub
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America
| | - Hibah O Awwad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, OUHSC, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, United States of America.
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5
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Dib P, Zhang Y, Ihnat MA, Gallucci RM, Standifer KM. TNF-Alpha as an Initiator of Allodynia and Anxiety-Like Behaviors in a Preclinical Model of PTSD and Comorbid Pain. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:721999. [PMID: 34512420 PMCID: PMC8424009 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.721999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health disorder that occurs after exposure to a traumatic event. Patients with comorbid chronic pain experience affective distress, worse quality of life, and poorer responses to treatments for pain or PTSD than those with either condition alone. FDA-approved PTSD treatments are often ineffective analgesics, requiring additional drugs to treat co-morbid symptoms. Therefore, development of new treatment strategies necessitate a better understanding of the pathophysiology of PTSD and comorbid pain. The single prolonged stress (SPS) model of PTSD induces the development of persistent mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. Increased Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) levels in serum and CSF accompany these exaggerated nociceptive responses, as well as increased serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). Therefore, the primary goal was to determine the role of TNF-α in the development of SPS-induced allodynia/hyperalgesia and elevated serum and CNS N/OFQ using two approaches: TNF-α synthesis inhibition, and blockade with anti-TNF-α antibody that acts primarily in the periphery. Administration of TNF-α synthesis blocker, thalidomide (THL), immediately after SPS prevented increased TNF-α and development of allodynia and hyperalgesia. The THL effect lasted at least 21 days, well after thalidomide treatment ended (day 5). THL also prevented SPS-induced increases in serum N/OFQ and reversed regional N/OFQ mRNA expression changes in the CNS. Serum TNF-α increases detected at 4 and 24 h post SPS were not accompanied by blood brain barrier disruption. A single injection of anti-TNF-α antibody to male and female rats during the SPS procedure prevented the development of allodynia, hyperalgesia, and elevated serum N/OFQ, and reduced SPS-induced anxiety-like behaviors in males. Anti-TNFα treatment also blocked development of SPS-induced allodynia in females, and blocked increased hypothalamic N/OFQ in males and females. This suggests that a peripheral TNF-α surge is necessary for the initiation of allodynia associated with SPS, as well as the altered central and peripheral N/OFQ that maintains nociceptive sensitivity. Therefore, early alleviation of TNF-α provides new therapeutic options for investigation as future PTSD and co-morbid pain treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Dib
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Michael A Ihnat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Randle M Gallucci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
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6
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Zhang L, Stüber F, Lippuner C, Schiff M, M Stamer U. ERK and p38 contribute to the regulation of nociceptin and the nociceptin receptor in human peripheral blood leukocytes. Mol Pain 2019; 15:1744806919828921. [PMID: 30665329 PMCID: PMC6378488 DOI: 10.1177/1744806919828921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the mechanisms involved in the regulation of nociceptin and its receptor (nociceptin opioid peptide receptor, NOP) in response to inflammation and pain in humans. In this study, specific signaling pathways contributing to the regulation of nociceptin and NOP in human peripheral blood leukocytes were investigated. After approval by the ethics committee, peripheral blood obtained from healthy donors was cultured with or without phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). Prepronociceptin (ppNOC) and NOP mRNA were analyzed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and nociceptin concentrations in culture supernatants by fluorescent enzyme immunoassay. Nociceptin and NOP protein levels in blood leukocyte subsets were determined using flow cytometry. To examine the contribution of signaling pathways to ppNOC and NOP regulation, blood was pre-treated with kinase inhibitors specific for ERK, JNK, p38, and NFκB pathways prior to culturing with or without PMA. PMA dose-dependently upregulated ppNOC mRNA but downregulated NOP mRNA in human peripheral blood leukocytes. PMA 10 ng/ml increased ppNOC after 6 h and suppressed NOP after 3 h compared to controls (both P <0.005). Nociceptin concentrations were increased in supernatants of PMA-induced blood samples after 24 h ( P <0.005), whereas expression of cell-membrane NOP was decreased by PMA in blood leukocyte subsets (all P <0.05). Blockade of ERK or p38 pathways partially prevented PMA effects on ppNOC and NOP mRNA (all P <0.05). The combination of ERK and p38 inhibitors completely reversed the effects of PMA ( P <0.05). ERK and p38 are two major signaling pathways regulating nociceptin and its receptor in human peripheral blood leukocytes under inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Zhang
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Frank Stüber
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Lippuner
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Schiff
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike M Stamer
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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7
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Awwad HO, Durand CD, Gonzalez LP, Tompkins P, Zhang Y, Lerner MR, Brackett DJ, Sherry DM, Awasthi V, Standifer KM. Post-blast treatment with Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor antagonist reduces brain injury-induced hypoxia and signaling proteins in vestibulomotor-related brain regions. Behav Brain Res 2018; 340:183-194. [PMID: 27793733 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) diagnoses have increased due to aggressive sports and blast-related injuries, but the cellular mechanisms and pathology underlying mTBI are not completely understood. Previous reports indicate that Nociceptin Orphanin/FQ (N/OFQ), an endogenous neuropeptide, contributes to post-injury ischemia following mechanical brain injury, yet its specific role in cerebral hypoxia, vestibulomotor function and injury marker expression following blast-induced TBI is not known. This study is the first to identify a direct association of N/OFQ and its N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor with TBI-induced changes following a single 80psi head blast exposure in male rats. N/OFQ and NOP receptor expression increased in brain tissue and plasma following TBI, concurrent with vestibular dysfunction but preceding hypoxia and appearance of injury markers compared to sham rats. A single post-blast treatment with the NOP receptor antagonist, SB-612111, transiently improved acute vestibulomotor performance. It also prevented increases in markers of TBI-induced hypoxia, pro-apoptotic proteins and injury seen 8-10days post-blast. This study reveals an apparent role for the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in blast TBI and suggests potential therapeutic utility of NOP receptor antagonists for mTBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hibah O Awwad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| | - Cindy D Durand
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Larry P Gonzalez
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Paul Tompkins
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Megan R Lerner
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA; Oklahoma city VA Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA
| | - Daniel J Brackett
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA
| | - David M Sherry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, USA
| | - Vibhudutta Awasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, USA
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8
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Toll L, Bruchas MR, Calo' G, Cox BM, Zaveri NT. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Receptor Structure, Signaling, Ligands, Functions, and Interactions with Opioid Systems. Pharmacol Rev 2016; 68:419-57. [PMID: 26956246 PMCID: PMC4813427 DOI: 10.1124/pr.114.009209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The NOP receptor (nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide receptor) is the most recently discovered member of the opioid receptor family and, together with its endogenous ligand, N/OFQ, make up the fourth members of the opioid receptor and opioid peptide family. Because of its more recent discovery, an understanding of the cellular and behavioral actions induced by NOP receptor activation are less well developed than for the other members of the opioid receptor family. All of these factors are important because NOP receptor activation has a clear modulatory role on mu opioid receptor-mediated actions and thereby affects opioid analgesia, tolerance development, and reward. In addition to opioid modulatory actions, NOP receptor activation has important effects on motor function and other physiologic processes. This review discusses how NOP pharmacology intersects, contrasts, and interacts with the mu opioid receptor in terms of tertiary structure and mechanism of receptor activation; location of receptors in the central nervous system; mechanisms of desensitization and downregulation; cellular actions; intracellular signal transduction pathways; and behavioral actions with respect to analgesia, tolerance, dependence, and reward. This is followed by a discussion of the agonists and antagonists that have most contributed to our current knowledge. Because NOP receptors are highly expressed in brain and spinal cord and NOP receptor activation sometimes synergizes with mu receptor-mediated actions and sometimes opposes them, an understanding of NOP receptor pharmacology in the context of these interactions with the opioid receptors will be crucial to the development of novel therapeutics that engage the NOP receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Toll
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Brian M Cox
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Nurulain T Zaveri
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
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9
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Tran L, Schulkin J, Ligon CO, Greenwood-Van Meerveld B. Epigenetic modulation of chronic anxiety and pain by histone deacetylation. Mol Psychiatry 2015; 20:1219-31. [PMID: 25288139 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2014.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged exposure of the central amygdala (CeA) to elevated corticosteroids (CORT) facilitates long-term anxiety and pain through activation of glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF). However, the mechanisms maintaining these responses are unknown. Since chronic phenotypes can be sustained by epigenetic mechanisms, including histone modifications such as deacetylation, we tested the hypothesis that histone deacetylation contributes to the maintenance of chronic anxiety and pain induced by prolonged exposure of the CeA to CORT. We found that bilateral infusions of a histone deacetylase inhibitor into the CeA attenuated anxiety-like behavior as well as somatic and visceral hypersensitivity resulting from elevated CORT exposure. Moreover, we delineated a novel pathway through which histone deacetylation could contribute to CORT regulation of GR and subsequent CRF expression in the CeA. Specifically, deacetylation of histone 3 at lysine 9 (H3K9), through the coordinated action of the NAD+-dependent protein deacetylase sirtuin-6 (SIRT6) and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), sequesters GR expression leading to disinhibition of CRF. Our results indicate that epigenetic programming in the amygdala, specifically histone modifications, is important in the maintenance of chronic anxiety and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tran
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - J Schulkin
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - C O Ligon
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - B Greenwood-Van Meerveld
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.,V.A. Medical Center, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.,Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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10
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Zielińska M, Ben Haddou T, Cami-Kobeci G, Sałaga M, Jarmuż A, Padysz M, Kordek R, Spetea M, Husbands SM, Fichna J. Anti-inflammatory effect of dual nociceptin and opioid receptor agonist, BU08070, in experimental colitis in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 765:582-90. [PMID: 26404500 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endogenous opioid and nociceptin systems are widely distributed in the gastrointestinal tract where they seem to play a crucial role in maintaining the intestinal homeostasis. The aim of our study was to assess whether activation of nociceptin (NOP) and µ-opioid (MOP) receptors by a mixed NOP/MOP receptor agonist, BU08070, induces anti-inflammatory response in experimental colitis. The anti-inflammatory effect of BU08070 (1 mg/kg i.p.) was characterized in the mouse model of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis, based on the assessment of the macroscopic and microscopic total damage scores and determination of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and TNF-α level in the colon. The effect of BU08070 on cell viability and NF-κB was characterized in THP-1 Blue cell line. The antinociceptive activity of BU08070 was examined in mustard oil-induced mouse model of abdominal pain. A potent anti-inflammatory effect of BU08070 (1 mg/kg i.p.) was observed as indicated by decrease in macroscopic damage score (1.88±0.39 vs. 5.19±0.43 units in TNBS alone treated mice), MPO activity (2.29±0.37 vs. 9.64±2.55 units) and TNF-α level in the colon (35.85±2.45 vs. 49.79±3.81 pg/ml). The anti-inflammatory effect of BU08070 was reversed by selective NOP and MOP receptor antagonists. BU08070 produced concentration-dependent inhibition of TNF-α and LPS-induced NF-κB activation. BU08070 exerted antinociceptive action in mice with experimental colitis. In conclusion, BU08070 significantly reduced the severity of colitis in TNBS-treated mice compared with controls. These results suggest that BU08070 is a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory bowel diseases therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Zielińska
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Tanila Ben Haddou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gerta Cami-Kobeci
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Maciej Sałaga
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Agata Jarmuż
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Milena Padysz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Military Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Radzisław Kordek
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Mariana Spetea
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Jakub Fichna
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
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11
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Schröder W, Lambert DG, Ko MC, Koch T. Functional plasticity of the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system determines analgesic properties of NOP receptor agonists. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 171:3777-800. [PMID: 24762001 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 04/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite high sequence similarity between NOP (nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide) and opioid receptors, marked differences in endogenous ligand selectivity, signal transduction, phosphorylation, desensitization, internalization and trafficking have been identified; underscoring the evolutionary difference between NOP and opioid receptors. Activation of NOP receptors affects nociceptive transmission in a site-specific manner, with antinociceptive effects prevailing after peripheral and spinal activation, and pronociceptive effects after supraspinal activation in rodents. The net effect of systemically administered NOP receptor agonists on nociception is proposed to depend on the relative contribution of peripheral, spinal and supraspinal activation, and this may depend on experimental conditions. Functional expression and regulation of NOP receptors at peripheral and central sites of the nociceptive pathway exhibits a high degree of plasticity under conditions of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. In rodents, systemically administered NOP receptor agonists exerted antihypersensitive effects in models of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. However, they were largely ineffective in acute pain while concomitantly evoking severe motor side effects. In contrast, systemic administration of NOP receptor agonists to non-human primates (NHPs) exerted potent and efficacious antinociception in the absence of motor and sedative side effects. The reason for this species difference with respect to antinociceptive efficacy and tolerability is not clear. Moreover, co-activation of NOP and μ-opioid peptide (MOP) receptors synergistically produced antinociception in NHPs. Hence, both selective NOP receptor as well as NOP/MOP receptor agonists may hold potential for clinical use as analgesics effective in conditions of acute and chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Schröder
- Department of Translational Science, Global Innovation, Grünenthal GmbH, Aachen, Germany
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12
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Gavioli EC, de Medeiros IU, Monteiro MC, Calo G, Romão PRT. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ-NOP receptor system in inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2015; 97:241-66. [PMID: 25677775 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The neuropeptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is the endogenous ligand of the G-protein-coupled receptor NOP. Cells from the immune system express the precursor preproN/OFQ and the NOP receptor, as well as secrete N/OFQ. The activation of the N/OFQ-NOP pathway can regulate inflammatory and immune responses. Several immune activities, including leukocyte migration, cytokine and chemokine production, and lymphocytes proliferation are influenced by NOP activation. It was demonstrated that cytokines and other stimuli such as Toll-like receptor agonist (e.g., lipopolysaccharide) induce N/OFQ production by cells from innate and adaptive immune response. In this context, N/OFQ could modulate the outcome of inflammatory diseases, such as sepsis and immune-mediated pathologies by mechanisms not clearly elucidated. In fact, clinical studies revealed increased levels of N/OFQ under sepsis, arthritis, and Parkinson's disease. Preclinical and clinical studies pointed to the blockade of NOP receptor signaling as successful strategy for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. This review is focused on experimental and clinical data that suggest the participation of N/OFQ-NOP receptor activation in the modulation of the immune response, highlighting the immunomodulatory potential of NOP antagonists in the inflammatory and immunological disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysic and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Iris Ucella de Medeiros
- Department of Biophysic and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Marta C Monteiro
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Brazil
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pedro R T Romão
- Laboratory of Immunology, Department of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Rua Sarmento Leite, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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13
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Al-Hashimi M, Scott SWM, Thompson JP, Lambert DG. Opioids and immune modulation: more questions than answers. Br J Anaesth 2013; 111:80-8. [PMID: 23794649 DOI: 10.1093/bja/aet153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioid addicts are more likely to present with infections suggesting opioids are immune modulators. The potential sites/mechanism(s) for this modulation are controversial and on close inspection not well supported by the current literature. It has long been assumed that opioid-induced immune modulation occurs via a combination of direct actions on the immune cell itself, via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, or both. Opioid receptors are classified as MOP (μ, mu), DOP (δ, delta), and KOP (κ, kappa)--classical naloxone sensitive receptors--or NOP (the receptor for nociceptin/orphanin FQ), which is naloxone insensitive. Opioids currently used in clinical practice predominantly target the MOP receptor. There do not appear to be classical opioid receptors present on immune cells. The evidence for HPA activation is also poor and shows some species dependence. Most opioids used clinically or as drugs of abuse do not target the NOP receptor. Other possible target sites for immune modulation include the sympathetic nervous system and central sites. We are currently unable to accurately define the cellular target for immune modulation and suggest further investigation is required. Based on the differences observed when comparing studies in laboratory animals and those performed in humans we suggest that further studies in the clinical setting are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Al-Hashimi
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, LE1 5WW, UK
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14
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Donica CL, Awwad HO, Thakker DR, Standifer KM. Cellular mechanisms of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor regulation and heterologous regulation by N/OFQ. Mol Pharmacol 2013; 83:907-18. [PMID: 23395957 PMCID: PMC3629824 DOI: 10.1124/mol.112.084632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor is the fourth and most recently discovered member of the opioid receptor superfamily that also includes μ, δ, and κ opioid receptor subtypes (MOR, DOR, and KOR, respectively). The widespread anatomic distribution of the NOP receptor enables the modulation of several physiologic processes by its endogenous agonist, N/OFQ. Accordingly, the NOP receptor has gained a lot of attention as a potential target for the development of ligands with therapeutic use in several pathophysiological states. NOP receptor activation frequently results in effects opposing classic opioid receptor action; therefore, regulation of the NOP receptor and conditions affecting its modulatory tone are important to understand. Mounting evidence reveals a heterologous interaction of the NOP receptor with other G protein-coupled receptors, including MOR, DOR, and KOR, which may subsequently influence their function. Our focus in this review is to summarize and discuss the findings that delineate the cellular mechanisms of NOP receptor signaling and regulation and the regulation of other receptors by N/OFQ and the NOP receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney L Donica
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA
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15
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Singh SR, Sullo N, D'Agostino B, Brightling CE, Lambert DG. The effects of nociceptin peptide (N/OFQ)-receptor (NOP) system activation in the airways. Peptides 2013; 39:36-46. [PMID: 23123316 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2012.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The heptadecapeptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is the endogenous ligand for the N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor. It is cleaved from a larger precursor identified as prepronociceptin (ppN/OFQ). NOP is a member of the seven transmembrane-spanning G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) family. ppN/OFQ and NOP receptors are widely distributed in different human tissues. Asthma is a complex heterogeneous disease characterized by variable airflow obstruction, bronchial hyper-responsiveness and chronic airway inflammation. Limited therapeutic effectiveness of currently available asthma therapies warrants identification of new drug compounds. Evidence from animal studies suggests that N/OFQ modulates airway contraction and inflammation. Interestingly up regulation of the N/OFQ-NOP system reduces airway hyper-responsiveness. In contrast, inflammatory cells central to the inflammatory response in asthma may be both sources of N/OFQ and respond to NOP activation. Hence paradoxical dysregulation of the N/OFQ-NOP system may potentially play an important role in regulating airway inflammation and airway tone. To date there is no data on N/OFQ-NOP expression in the human airways. Therefore, the potential role of N/OFQ-NOP system in asthma is unknown. This review focuses on its physiological effects within airways and potential value as a novel asthma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailendra R Singh
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences (Pharmacology and Therapeutics Group), Division of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
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Abstract
This paper is the thirty-fourth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2011 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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17
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Gavioli EC, Romão PRT. NOP Receptor Ligands as Potential Agents for Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases. JOURNAL OF AMINO ACIDS 2011; 2011:836569. [PMID: 22312472 PMCID: PMC3268226 DOI: 10.4061/2011/836569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2011] [Revised: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 09/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is a seventeen-amino acid peptide that is the endogenous ligand of a G-protein-coupled receptor (NOP). Various immune cells express the precursor protein and secrete N/OFQ as well as display binding sites for this peptide. The functional capacity of NOP receptor was demonstrated in vitro and in vivo studies by the ability of N/OFQ to induce chemotaxis of immune cells, to regulate the expression of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators, and to control cellular and humoral immunity. In this context, N/OFQ could modulate the outcome of some inflammatory diseases, such as sepsis and autoimmune pathologies by mechanisms not clearly elucidated yet. In fact, human body fluid revealed increased levels of N/OFQ under sepsis, arthritis, and Parkinson's diagnose. Preclinical studies pointed to the blockade of NOP receptor signaling as successful in treating these experimental conditions. Further preclinical and clinical studies are required to investigate the potential of NOP ligands in treating inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Gavioli
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Comportamental, Programa de Pós-graduação em Desenvolvimento e Inovação Tecnológica em Medicamentos, Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970 Natal, RN, Brazil
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