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Chen M, Liang X, Chen X, Yang Y, Shu Q, Ju Y, Nie W, Yang X, Guo Y, Li X, Gu P, Li L. Injectable Gel-PEG hydrogels as promising delivery system for intravitreal PACAP release: Novel therapeutics for unilateral common carotid artery occlusion induced retinal ischemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 179:117427. [PMID: 39276397 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117427] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinal ischemia is an ophthalmic emergency often caused by cardiovascular diseases, leading to irreversible vision loss and even blindness. Innovative retinal ischemia treatments are needed due to limited options. The pathological mechanisms involve retinal cell apoptosis and microglial activation. The pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a well distributed neuropeptide found in both central nervous system and peripheral organs. Though it shows great anti-apoptosis and anti-microglia activation properties, it is rapidly cleared by intravitreal injection. Herein, we established a novel poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel system by cross-linking 4arm-PEG-NHS and 4arm-PEG-NH2 to load PACAP (PACAP@Gel-PEG), which exhibited great fluidity, injectability, structural recovery ability, moderate swelling ratio and drug release ability that were appropriate for drug delivery. Then the safety and effectiveness of the PACAP@Gel-PEG were evaluated in vitro in three retinal cell lines (ARPE-19, 661 W and rRMC) and in vivo using the unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (UCCAO) mice model. The CCK-8 test and live/dead staining demonstrated that PACAP@Gel-PEG exhibited excellent biocompatibility in three retinal cell lines. Furthermore, after PACAP@Gel-PEG treatment, a great anti-apoptotic effect was observed in cells treated by CoCl2. Application of PACAP@Gel-PEG greatly improved the therapeutic efficacy of PACAP in restoring retinal function, maintaining retinal integrity, and suppressing apoptosis and microglia activation in retinal tissues. Moreover, in mice, the biosafety of PACAP@Gel-PEG was confirmed by H&E staining of systemic organs. Taken together, our results demonstrated PACAP@Gel-PEG as a promising therapeutic option for retinal ischemia, providing new strategies for vision restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- MoXin Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - XiaoYi Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - XiRui Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Shu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - YaHan Ju
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - WanQin Nie
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - XueFeng Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - YongLin Guo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - XiaoJing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, China.
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Hao ESJ, Zhang N, Zhu Q, Wang X, Lin KK. Terahertz Attenuated Total Reflection Spectral Response and Signal Enhancement via Plasmonic Enhanced Sensor for Eye Drop Detection. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:8290. [PMID: 37837119 PMCID: PMC10575060 DOI: 10.3390/s23198290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
With chronic ocular diseases such as glaucoma and dry eye syndrome, patients have to apply eye drops over the long term. The therapeutic effects of eye drops depend on the amount of drug contained and the stability of the solution. In addition, contamination during usage and transport can also negatively affect the quality and efficacy of eye drops. The current techniques for the characterization of eye drops are often complicated and time-consuming. Developing a fast and non-invasive way of accurately measuring eye drop quality remains an ongoing challenge. The biggest challenge and primary prerequisite for the application of this new detection technique for eye drops is the obtention of a sufficient spectral response and resolvable signal, considering the large background signal contributed by water. In this work, we use terahertz (THz) attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectroscopy combined with a sensitive hybrid graphene oxide (GO) and carbon nanotube (CNT) thin-film sensors to obtain distinct THz spectral signals in commercial eye drops. Various commercial eye drop products have been tested, and we show that they can be differentiated via their spectral signals. Our results provide a solid foundation for the future fine analysis of eye drops and the detection of their quality. Furthermore, THz spectroscopy combined with GO/CNT films has significant potential and advantages for the non-destructive characterization of aqueous pharmaceutical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Soh Jia Hao
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Singapore 138634, Singapore; (E.S.J.H.); (N.Z.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Nan Zhang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Singapore 138634, Singapore; (E.S.J.H.); (N.Z.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Qiang Zhu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Singapore 138634, Singapore; (E.S.J.H.); (N.Z.); (Q.Z.)
- Institution of Sustainability for Chemical, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Singapore
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore
| | - Xizu Wang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Singapore 138634, Singapore; (E.S.J.H.); (N.Z.); (Q.Z.)
| | - Karen Ke Lin
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 2 Fusionopolis Way, Singapore 138634, Singapore; (E.S.J.H.); (N.Z.); (Q.Z.)
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3
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D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Magrì B, Lombardo C, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro P, Giunta S, Bucolo C, D'Agata V. PACAP-ADNP axis prevents outer retinal barrier breakdown and choroidal neovascularization by interfering with VEGF secreted from retinal pigmented epitelium cells. Peptides 2023; 168:171065. [PMID: 37495040 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
During diabetic retinopathy (DR) progression, the retina undergoes various metabolic changes, including hypoxia-signalling cascade induction in the cells of retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE). The overexpression of hypoxic inducible factors causes transcription of many target genes including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The RPE cells form the outer blood retinal barrier (oBRB), a specialized structure that regulates ions and metabolites flux into the retina to maintain a suitable quality of its extracellular microenvironment. VEGF worsens retinal condition since its secretion from the basolateral compartment of RPE cells compromises the barrier's integrity and induces choroidal neovascularization. In this work, we hypothesized that PACAP prevents the damage to oBRB and controls choroidal neovascularization through the induction of ADNP. Firstly, we demonstrated that ADNP is expressed in Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic animals. To validate our hypothesis, we cultured endothelial cells (H5V) forming vessels-like structures, in a conditioned medium (CM) derived from ARPE-19 cells exposed to hyperglycaemic/hypoxic insult, containing a known VEGF concentration. The involvement of PACAP-ADNP axis on oBRB integrity was evaluated through the measurement of trans-epithelial-electrical resistance and permeability assay performed on ARPE cell monolayer cultured in CM and by analysing the expression of two tight junction forming proteins, ZO1 and occludin. By culturing H5V in CM, we demonstrated that PACAP-ADNP axis counteracted vessels-like structures formation promoted by VEGF. In conclusion, the results suggested a primary role of PACAP/ADNP axis in preventing oBRB damage and in controlling aberrant choroidal neovascularization induced by VEGF secreted from RPE cells exposed to hyperglycaemia/hypoxic insult in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Section of System Biology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Benedetta Magrì
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudia Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Paola Cavallaro
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", University of Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Kovács-Valasek A, Rák T, Pöstyéni E, Csutak A, Gábriel R. Three Major Causes of Metabolic Retinal Degenerations and Three Ways to Avoid Them. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108728. [PMID: 37240082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
An imbalance of homeostasis in the retina leads to neuron loss and this eventually results in a deterioration of vision. If the stress threshold is exceeded, different protective/survival mechanisms are activated. Numerous key molecular actors contribute to prevalent metabolically induced retinal diseases-the three major challenges are age-related alterations, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. These diseases have complex dysregulation of glucose-, lipid-, amino acid or purine metabolism. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on possible ways of preventing or circumventing retinal degeneration by available methods. We intend to provide a unified background, common prevention and treatment rationale for these disorders and identify the mechanisms through which these actions protect the retina. We suggest a role for herbal medicines, internal neuroprotective substances and synthetic drugs targeting four processes: parainflammation and/or glial cell activation, ischemia and related reactive oxygen species and vascular endothelial growth factor accumulation, apoptosis and/or autophagy of nerve cells and an elevation of ocular perfusion pressure and/or intraocular pressure. We conclude that in order to achieve substantial preventive or therapeutic effects, at least two of the mentioned pathways should be targeted synergistically. A repositioning of some drugs is considered to use them for the cure of the other related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tibor Rák
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Adrienne Csutak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gábriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 20, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Magrì B, Giunta S, Musumeci G, Saccone S, Federico C, Scollo D, Longo A, Avitabile T, D'Agata V. Regulation of UV-B-Induced Inflammatory Mediators by Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP)-Derived Peptide (NAP) in Corneal Epithelium. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24086895. [PMID: 37108060 PMCID: PMC10139171 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24086895] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The corneal epithelium, representing the outermost layer of the cornea, acts as a barrier to protect the eye against external insults such as ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiations. The inflammatory response induced by these adverse events can alter the corneal structure, leading to visual impairment. In a previous study, we demonstrated the positive effects of NAP, the active fragment of activity-dependent protein (ADNP), against oxidative stress induced by UV-B radiations. Here, we investigated its role to counteract the inflammatory event triggered by this insult contributing to the disruption of the corneal epithelial barrier. The results indicated that NAP treatment prevents UV-B-induced inflammatory processes by affecting IL-1β cytokine expression and NF-κB activation, as well as maintaining corneal epithelial barrier integrity. These findings may be useful for the future development of an NAP-based therapy for corneal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Section of System Biology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Benedetta Magrì
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Davide Scollo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Clinic, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Longo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Clinic, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Teresio Avitabile
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye Clinic, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Phetsanthad A, Vu NQ, Yu Q, Buchberger AR, Chen Z, Keller C, Li L. Recent advances in mass spectrometry analysis of neuropeptides. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2023; 42:706-750. [PMID: 34558119 PMCID: PMC9067165 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Due to their involvement in numerous biochemical pathways, neuropeptides have been the focus of many recent research studies. Unfortunately, classic analytical methods, such as western blots and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, are extremely limited in terms of global investigations, leading researchers to search for more advanced techniques capable of probing the entire neuropeptidome of an organism. With recent technological advances, mass spectrometry (MS) has provided methodology to gain global knowledge of a neuropeptidome on a spatial, temporal, and quantitative level. This review will cover key considerations for the analysis of neuropeptides by MS, including sample preparation strategies, instrumental advances for identification, structural characterization, and imaging; insightful functional studies; and newly developed absolute and relative quantitation strategies. While many discoveries have been made with MS, the methodology is still in its infancy. Many of the current challenges and areas that need development will also be highlighted in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Phetsanthad
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Nhu Q. Vu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Qing Yu
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Amanda R. Buchberger
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Zhengwei Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Caitlin Keller
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Lingjun Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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Figueiredo CA, Düsedau HP, Steffen J, Ehrentraut S, Dunay MP, Toth G, Reglödi D, Heimesaat MM, Dunay IR. The neuropeptide PACAP alleviates T. gondii infection-induced neuroinflammation and neuronal impairment. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:274. [PMCID: PMC9675261 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02639-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cerebral infection with the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is responsible for inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS) contributing to subtle neuronal alterations. Albeit essential for brain parasite control, continuous microglia activation and recruitment of peripheral immune cells entail distinct neuronal impairment upon infection-induced neuroinflammation. PACAP is an endogenous neuropeptide known to inhibit inflammation and promote neuronal survival. Since PACAP is actively transported into the CNS, we aimed to assess the impact of PACAP on the T. gondii-induced neuroinflammation and subsequent effects on neuronal homeostasis. Methods Exogenous PACAP was administered intraperitoneally in the chronic stage of T. gondii infection, and brains were isolated for histopathological analysis and determination of pathogen levels. Immune cells from the brain, blood, and spleen were analyzed by flow cytometry, and the further production of inflammatory mediators was investigated by intracellular protein staining as well as expression levels by RT-qPCR. Neuronal and synaptic alterations were assessed on the transcriptional and protein level, focusing on neurotrophins, neurotrophin-receptors and signature synaptic markers. Results Here, we reveal that PACAP administration reduced the inflammatory foci and the number of apoptotic cells in the brain parenchyma and restrained the activation of microglia and recruitment of monocytes. The neuropeptide reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators such as IFN-γ, IL-6, iNOS, and IL-1β. Moreover, PACAP diminished IFN-γ production by recruited CD4+ T cells in the CNS. Importantly, PACAP promoted neuronal health via increased expression of the neurotrophin BDNF and reduction of p75NTR, a receptor related to neuronal cell death. In addition, PACAP administration was associated with increased expression of transporters involved in glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling that are particularly affected during cerebral toxoplasmosis. Conclusions Together, our findings unravel the beneficial effects of exogenous PACAP treatment upon infection-induced neuroinflammation, highlighting the potential implication of neuropeptides to promote neuronal survival and minimize synaptic prejudice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-022-02639-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Andreeta Figueiredo
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Henning Peter Düsedau
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Steffen
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Ehrentraut
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Miklos P. Dunay
- grid.483037.b0000 0001 2226 5083Department and Clinic of Surgery and Ophthalmology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabor Toth
- grid.9008.10000 0001 1016 9625Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglödi
- grid.9679.10000 0001 0663 9479Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team and Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs Medical School, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Markus M. Heimesaat
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.418723.b0000 0001 2109 6265Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences – CBBS, Magdeburg, Germany
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Effects of pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) in corneal epithelial regeneration and signal transduction in rats. Int J Pept Res Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-022-10405-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AbstractCorneal epithelium responds to insults with a rapid wound healing, which is essential for maintaining vision. The proper balance of apoptotic and proliferation-stimulating pathways is critical for normal regeneration. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is an important growth factor during the development of the nervous system and exerts cytoprotective effects in injuries. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of PACAP on corneal epithelial wound healing in rats and on two important protective signaling molecules, Akt and ERK1/2, both of which have been reported to play important roles during cell survival and regeneration, including corneal wound healing. Wistar rats received PACAP treatment in form of eyedrops, containing 1, 5 and 10 µg PACAP27, immediately and every two hours after corneal abrasion. Corneas were stained with fluorescein dye and further processed for histological staining or Western blot analysis for Akt and ERK1/2 expression. Our results showed that topical PACAP application enhanced corneal wound healing, as the area of injury was significantly less in PACAP-treated groups. Furthermore, both ERK1/2 and Akt signaling was induced upon PACAP administration in both injured and intact corneas. In summary, the present results show that PACAP enhances corneal wound healing in a rat model of corneal abrasion.
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Pöstyéni E, Ganczer A, Kovács-Valasek A, Gabriel R. Relevance of Peptide Homeostasis in Metabolic Retinal Degenerative Disorders: Curative Potential in Genetically Modified Mice. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:808315. [PMID: 35095518 PMCID: PMC8793341 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.808315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian retina contains approximately 30 neuropeptides that are synthetized by different neuronal cell populations, glia, and the pigmented epithelium. The presence of these neuropeptides leaves a mark on normal retinal molecular processes and physiology, and they are also crucial in fighting various pathologies (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, ischemia, age-related pathologies, glaucoma) because of their protective abilities. Retinal pathologies of different origin (metabolic, genetic) are extensively investigated by genetically manipulated in vivo mouse models that help us gain a better understanding of the molecular background of these pathomechanisms. These models offer opportunities to manipulate gene expression in different cell types to help reveal their roles in the preservation of retinal health or identify malfunction during diseases. In order to assess the current status of transgenic technologies available, we have conducted a literature survey focused on retinal disorders of metabolic origin, zooming in on the role of retinal neuropeptides in diabetic retinopathy and ischemia. First, we identified those neuropeptides that are most relevant to retinal pathologies in humans and the two clinically most relevant models, mice and rats. Then we continued our analysis with metabolic disorders, examining neuropeptide-related pathways leading to systemic or cellular damage and rescue. Last but not least, we reviewed the available literature on genetically modified mouse strains to understand how the manipulation of a single element of any given pathway (e.g., signal molecules, receptors, intracellular signaling pathways) could lead either to the worsening of disease conditions or, more frequently, to substantial improvements in retinal health. Most attention was given to studies which reported successful intervention against specific disorders. For these experiments, a detailed evaluation will be given and the possible role of converging intracellular pathways will be discussed. Using these converging intracellular pathways, curative effects of peptides could potentially be utilized in fighting metabolic retinal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etelka Pöstyéni
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alma Ganczer
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Andrea Kovács-Valasek
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert Gabriel
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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A Broad Overview on Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide Role in the Eye: Focus on Its Repairing Effect in Cornea. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12020760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with widespread distribution throughout the central and peripheral nervous system as well as in many other peripheral organs. It plays cytoprotective effects mediated mainly through the activation of specific receptors. PACAP is known to play pleiotropic effects on the eye, including the cornea, protecting it against different types of insult. This review firstly provides an overview of the anatomy of the cornea and summarizes data present in literature about PACAP’s role in the eye and, in particular, in the cornea, either in physiological or pathological conditions.
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Hirabayashi T, Shibato J, Kimura A, Yamashita M, Takenoya F, Shioda S. Potential Therapeutic Role of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide for Dry Eye Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:664. [PMID: 35054857 PMCID: PMC8775530 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Dry eye disease (DED) is caused by a reduction in the volume or quality of tears. The prevalence of DED is estimated to be 100 million in the developed world. As aging is a risk factor for DED, the prevalence of DED is expected to grow at a rapid pace in aging populations, thus creating an increased need for new therapies. This review summarizes DED medications currently in clinical use. Most current medications for DED focus on stimulating tear secretion, mucin secretion, or suppressing inflammation, rather than simply replenishing the ocular surface with moisture to improve symptoms. We recently reported that the neuropeptide PACAP (pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide) induces tear secretion and suppresses corneal injury caused by a reduction in tears. Moreover, it has been reported that a PACAP in water and a 0.9% saline solution at +4 °C showed high stability and achieved 80-90% effectiveness after 2 weeks of treatment. These results reveal PACAP as a candidate DED medication. Further research on the clinical applications of PACAP in DED is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Hirabayashi
- Clinical Medicine Research Laboratory, Shonan University of Medical Sciences, 16-48, Kamishinano, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama 244-0806, Japan
| | - Junko Shibato
- Clinical Medicine Research Laboratory, Shonan University of Medical Sciences, 16-48, Kamishinano, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama 244-0806, Japan
| | - Ai Kimura
- Clinical Medicine Research Laboratory, Shonan University of Medical Sciences, 16-48, Kamishinano, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama 244-0806, Japan
| | - Michio Yamashita
- Department of Physiology and Molecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Hoshi University, 2-4-41 Ebara, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8501, Japan
| | - Fumiko Takenoya
- Department of Physiology and Molecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Hoshi University, 2-4-41 Ebara, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-8501, Japan
| | - Seiji Shioda
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shonan University of Medical Sciences, 16-48, Kamishinano, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama 244-0806, Japan
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Protective Effects of PACAP in a Rat Model of Diabetic Neuropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910691. [PMID: 34639032 PMCID: PMC8509403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with a widespread occurrence and diverse effects. PACAP has well-documented neuro- and cytoprotective effects, proven in numerous studies. Among others, PACAP is protective in models of diabetes-associated diseases, such as diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy. As the neuropeptide has strong neurotrophic and neuroprotective actions, we aimed at investigating the effects of PACAP in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced diabetic neuropathy, another common complication of diabetes. Rats were treated with PACAP1-38 every second day for 8 weeks starting simultaneously with the streptozotocin injection. Nerve fiber morphology was examined with electron microscopy, chronic neuronal activation in pain processing centers was studied with FosB immunohistochemistry, and functionality was assessed by determining the mechanical nociceptive threshold. PACAP treatment did not alter body weight or blood glucose levels during the 8-week observation period. However, PACAP attenuated the mechanical hyperalgesia, compared to vehicle-treated diabetic animals, and it markedly reduced the morphological signs characteristic for neuropathy: axon–myelin separation, mitochondrial fission, unmyelinated fiber atrophy, and basement membrane thickening of endoneurial vessels. Furthermore, PACAP attenuated the increase in FosB immunoreactivity in the dorsal spinal horn and periaqueductal grey matter. Our results show that PACAP is a promising therapeutic agent in diabetes-associated complications, including diabetic neuropathy.
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Fábián E, Horváth G, Opper B, Atlasz T, Tóth G, Reglődi D. PACAP is Protective Against Cellular Stress in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10162-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe integrity of the innermost, pigment epithelial layer of the retina is crucial for the photoreceptor survival and for maintaining the outer blood–retina barrier. In several ocular degenerations, such as diabetic retinopathy or macular edema, the stress caused by various harmful stimuli (hypoxia, oxidative stress, hyperosmosis) lead to severe molecular biological changes in this layer, promoting neovascularization of the retina. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) occurs throughout the whole body, including the eye. It has numerous functions in the retina, including the previously described anti-apoptotic and anti-angiogenic effects in retinal pigment epithelial cells. The aim of this present study was to investigate the influence of PACAP on different stress factors. In accordance with previous findings, PACAP significantly ameliorated the increased Hif1-α levels in hypoxic conditions. In H2O2-induced oxidative stress PACAP had an anti-apoptotic effect, it could decrease the expression of cytochrome-c and p53, while it upregulated the concentration of three antioxidants, namely SOD2, PON2 and thioredoxin. In conclusion, we provided new information on the molecular biological background of the retinoprotective effect of PACAP.
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D’Amico AG, Maugeri G, Musumeci G, Reglodi D, D’Agata V. PACAP and NAP: Effect of Two Functionally Related Peptides in Diabetic Retinopathy. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 71:1525-1535. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01769-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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