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Vékony RG, Tamás A, Lukács A, Ujfalusi Z, Lőrinczy D, Takács-Kollár V, Bukovics P. Exploring the Role of Neuropeptide PACAP in Cytoskeletal Function Using Spectroscopic Methods. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8063. [PMID: 39125632 PMCID: PMC11311697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158063] [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: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The behavior and presence of actin-regulating proteins are characteristic of various clinical diseases. Changes in these proteins significantly impact the cytoskeletal and regenerative processes underlying pathological changes. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), a cytoprotective neuropeptide abundant in the nervous system and endocrine organs, plays a key role in neuron differentiation and migration by influencing actin. This study aims to elucidate the role of PACAP as an actin-regulating polypeptide, its effect on actin filament formation, and the underlying regulatory mechanisms. We examined PACAP27, PACAP38, and PACAP6-38, measuring their binding to actin monomers via fluorescence spectroscopy and steady-state anisotropy. Functional polymerization tests were used to track changes in fluorescent intensity over time. Unlike PACAP27, PACAP38 and PACAP6-38 significantly reduced the fluorescence emission of Alexa488-labeled actin monomers and increased their anisotropy, showing nearly identical dissociation equilibrium constants. PACAP27 showed weak binding to globular actin (G-actin), while PACAP38 and PACAP6-38 exhibited robust interactions. PACAP27 did not affect actin polymerization, but PACAP38 and PACAP6-38 accelerated actin incorporation kinetics. Fluorescence quenching experiments confirmed structural changes upon PACAP binding; however, all studied PACAP fragments exhibited the same effect. Our findings indicate that PACAP38 and PACAP6-38 strongly bind to G-actin and significantly influence actin polymerization. Further studies are needed to fully understand the biological significance of these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Gábor Vékony
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.G.V.); (A.L.); (Z.U.); (D.L.); (V.T.-K.)
| | - Andrea Tamás
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - András Lukács
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.G.V.); (A.L.); (Z.U.); (D.L.); (V.T.-K.)
| | - Zoltán Ujfalusi
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.G.V.); (A.L.); (Z.U.); (D.L.); (V.T.-K.)
| | - Dénes Lőrinczy
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.G.V.); (A.L.); (Z.U.); (D.L.); (V.T.-K.)
| | - Veronika Takács-Kollár
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.G.V.); (A.L.); (Z.U.); (D.L.); (V.T.-K.)
| | - Péter Bukovics
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.G.V.); (A.L.); (Z.U.); (D.L.); (V.T.-K.)
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Pirger Z, Urbán P, Gálik B, Kiss B, Tapodi A, Schmidt J, Tóth GK, Koene JM, Kemenes G, Reglődi D, Kiss T, Fodor I. Same same, but different: exploring the enigmatic role of the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in invertebrate physiology. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2024:10.1007/s00359-024-01706-5. [PMID: 38940930 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-024-01706-5] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Evidence has been accumulating that elements of the vertebrate pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) system are missing in non-chordate genomes, which is at odds with the partial sequence-, immunohistochemical-, and physiological data in the literature. Multilevel experiments were performed on the great pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis) to explore the role of PACAP in invertebrates. Screening of neuronal transcriptome and genome data did not reveal homologs to the elements of vertebrate PACAP system. Despite this, immunohistochemical investigations with an anti-human PAC1 receptor antibody yielded a positive signal in the neuronal elements in the heart. Although Western blotting of proteins extracted from the nervous system found a relevant band for PACAP-38, immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometric analyses revealed no corresponding peptide fragments. Similarly to the effects reported in vertebrates, PACAP-38 significantly increased cAMP synthesis in the heart and had a positive ionotropic effect on heart preparations. Moreover, it significantly modulated the effects of serotonin and acetylcholine. Homologs to members of Cluster B receptors, which have shared common evolutionary origin with the vertebrate PACAP receptors, PTHRs, and GCGRs, were identified and shown not to be expressed in the heart, which does not support a potential role in the mediation of PACAP-induced effects. Our findings support the notion that the PACAP system emerged after the protostome-deuterostome divergence. Using antibodies against vertebrate proteins is again highlighted to have little/no value in invertebrate studies. The physiological effects of vertebrate PACAP peptides in protostomes, no matter how similar they are to those in vertebrates, should be considered non-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Pirger
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, HUN-REN Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Tihany, 8237, Hungary
| | - Péter Urbán
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Core Facilities, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Bence Gálik
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Core Facilities, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Bence Kiss
- Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Antal Tapodi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - János Schmidt
- Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Gábor K Tóth
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Joris M Koene
- Ecology & Evolution, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - György Kemenes
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Dóra Reglődi
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, 7624, Hungary
| | - Tibor Kiss
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, HUN-REN Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Tihany, 8237, Hungary
| | - István Fodor
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, HUN-REN Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Tihany, 8237, Hungary.
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Li H, Xu L, Cao H, Wang T, Yang S, Tong Y, Wang L, Liu Q. Analysis on the pathogenesis and treatment progress of NRG1 fusion-positive non-small cell lung cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1405380. [PMID: 38957319 PMCID: PMC11217482 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1405380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer persistently leads as the primary cause of morbidity and mortality among malignancies. A notable increase in the prevalence of lung adenocarcinoma has become evident in recent years. Although targeted therapies have shown in treating certain subsets of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), a significant proportion of patients still face suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. Neuregulin-1 (NRG1), a critical member of the NRG gene family, initially drew interest due to its distribution within the nascent ventricular endocardium, showcasing an exclusive presence in the endocardium and myocardial microvessels. Recent research has highlighted NRG1's pivotal role in the genesis and progression across a spectrum of tumors, influencing molecular perturbations across various tumor-associated signaling pathways. This review provides a concise overview of NRG1, including its expression patterns, configuration, and fusion partners. Additionally, we explore the unique features and potential therapeutic strategies for NRG1 fusion-positive occurrences within the context of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Li
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Lina Xu
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Hongshun Cao
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Tianyi Wang
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Siwen Yang
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yixin Tong
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shenyang Chest Hospital & Tenth People’s Hospital, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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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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Moody TW, Ramos-Alvarez I, Jensen RT. Peptide G-Protein-Coupled Receptors and ErbB Receptor Tyrosine Kinases in Cancer. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:957. [PMID: 37508387 PMCID: PMC10376828 DOI: 10.3390/biology12070957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The ErbB RTKs (EGFR, HER2, HER3, and HER4) have been well-studied in cancer. EGFR, HER2, and HER3 stimulate cancer proliferation, principally by activating the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways, resulting in increased cancer cell survival and proliferation. Cancer cells have high densities of the EGFR, HER2, and HER3 causing phosphorylation of tyrosine amino acids on protein substrates and tyrosine amino acids near the C-terminal of the RTKs. After transforming growth factor (TGF) α binds to the EGFR, homodimers or EGFR heterodimers form. HER2 forms heterodimers with the EGFR, HER3, and HER4. The EGFR, HER2, and HER3 are overexpressed in lung cancer patient tumors, and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), such as Herceptin against HER2, are used to treat breast cancer patients. Patients with EGFR mutations are treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as gefitinib or osimertinib. Peptide GPCRs, such as NTSR1, are present in many cancers, and neurotensin (NTS) stimulates the growth of cancer cells. Lung cancer proliferation is impaired by SR48692, an NTSR1 antagonist. SR48692 is synergistic with gefitinib at inhibiting lung cancer growth. Adding NTS to lung cancer cells increases the shedding of TGFα, which activates the EGFR, or neuregulin-1, which activates HER3. The transactivation process is impaired by SRC, matrix metalloprotease, and reactive oxygen species inhibitors. While the transactivation process is complicated, it is fast and occurs within minutes after adding NTS to cancer cells. This review emphasizes the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and SR48692 to impair transactivation and cancer growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry W Moody
- Center for Cancer Training, NCI, and Digestive Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Irene Ramos-Alvarez
- Center for Cancer Training, NCI, and Digestive Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Robert T Jensen
- Center for Cancer Training, NCI, and Digestive Diseases Branch, NIDDK, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Larsen ME, Lyu H, Liu B. HER3-targeted therapeutic antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates in non-small cell lung cancer refractory to EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors. CHINESE MEDICAL JOURNAL PULMONARY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE 2023; 1:11-17. [PMID: 39170873 PMCID: PMC11332908 DOI: 10.1016/j.pccm.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 3 (HER3) is a unique member of the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER/EGFR) family, since it has negligible kinase activity. Therefore, HER3 must interact with a kinase-proficient receptor to form a heterodimer, leading to the activation of signaling cascades. Overexpression of HER3 is observed in various human cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and correlates with poor clinical outcomes in patients. Studies on the underlying mechanism demonstrate that HER3-initiated signaling promotes tumor metastasis and causes treatment failure in human cancers. Upregulation of HER3 is frequently observed in EGFR-mutant NSCLC treated with EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Increased expression of HER3 triggers the so-called EGFR-independent mechanism via interactions with other receptors to activate "bypass signaling pathways", thereby resulting in resistance to EGFR-TKIs. To date, no HER3-targeted therapy has been approved for cancer treatment. In both preclinical and clinical studies, targeting HER3 with a blocking antibody (Ab) is the only strategy being examined. Recent evaluations of an anti-HER3 Ab-drug conjugate (ADC) show promising results in patients with EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLC. Herein, we summarize our understanding of the unique biology of HER3 in NSCLC refractory to EGFR-TKIs, with a focus on its dimerization partners and subsequent activation of signaling pathways. We also discuss the latest development of the therapeutic Abs and ADCs targeting HER3 to abrogate EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E. Larsen
- Departments of Interdisciplinary Oncology and Genetics, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Hui Lyu
- Departments of Interdisciplinary Oncology and Genetics, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Bolin Liu
- Departments of Interdisciplinary Oncology and Genetics, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University (LSU) Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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7
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Patko E, Szabo E, Toth D, Tornoczky T, Bosnyak I, Vaczy A, Atlasz T, Reglodi D. Distribution of PACAP and PAC1 Receptor in the Human Eye. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:2176-2187. [PMID: 35253081 PMCID: PMC9726800 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-01985-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with widespread distribution and diverse biological functions. Several studies show that PACAP has strong cytoprotective effects mediated mostly through its specific PAC1 receptor (PAC1-R) and it plays important roles in several pathological conditions. Its distribution and altered expression are known in various human tissues, but there is no descriptive data about PACAP and its receptors in the human eyebulb. Since PACAP38 is the dominant form of the naturally occurring PACAP, our aim was to investigate the distribution of PACAP38-like immunoreactivity in the human eye and to describe the presence of PAC1-R. Semiquantitative evaluation was performed after routine histology and immunohistochemical labeling on human eye sections. Our results showed high level of immunopositivity in the corneal epithelium and endothelium. Within the vascular layer, the iris and the ciliary body had strong immunopositivity for both PACAP and PAC1-R. Several layers of the retina showed immunoreactivity for PACAP and PAC1-R, but the ganglion cell layer had a special pattern in the immunolabeling. Labeling was observed in the neuropil within the optic nerve in both cases and glial cells displayed immunoreactivity for PAC1-R. In summary, our study indicates the widespread occurrence of PACAP and its specific receptor in the human eye, implying that the results from in vitro and animal studies have translational value and most probably are also present in the human eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelin Patko
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Edina Szabo
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Denes Toth
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Tamas Tornoczky
- Department of Pathology, Medical School and Clinical Center, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Inez Bosnyak
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Vaczy
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Tamas Atlasz
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary.
- Szentagothai Research Center, Medical School, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary.
- Department of Sportbiology, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary.
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
- Szentagothai Research Center, Medical School, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
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Koppan M, Nagy Z, Bosnyak I, Reglodi D. Female reproductive functions of the neuropeptide PACAP. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:982551. [PMID: 36204113 PMCID: PMC9531758 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.982551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide originally isolated as a hypothalamic peptide. It has a widespread distribution in the body and has a diverse spectrum of actions. Among other processes, PACAP has been shown to be involved in reproduction. In this review we summarize findings related to the entire spectrum of female reproduction. PACAP is a regulatory factor in gonadal hormone production, influences follicular development and plays a role in fertilization and embryonic/placental development. Furthermore, PACAP is involved in hormonal changes during and after birth and affects maternal behavior. Although most data come from cell cultures and animal experiments, increasing number of evidence suggests that similar effects of PACAP can be found in humans. Among other instances, PACAP levels show changes in the serum during pregnancy and birth. PACAP is also present in the human follicular and amniotic fluids and in the milk. Levels of PACAP in follicular fluid correlate with the number of retrieved oocytes in hyperstimulated women. Human milk contains very high levels of PACAP compared to plasma levels, with colostrum showing the highest concentration, remaining steady thereafter for the first 7 months of lactation. All these data imply that PACAP has important functions in reproduction both under physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zsuzsanna Nagy
- Department of Physiology, University of Pecs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Inez Bosnyak
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Group and Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Group and Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
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Wnorowski A, Wójcik J, Maj M. Gene Expression Data Mining Reveals the Involvement of GPR55 and Its Endogenous Ligands in Immune Response, Cancer, and Differentiation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413328. [PMID: 34948125 PMCID: PMC8707311 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) is a recently deorphanized lipid- and peptide-sensing receptor. Its lipidic endogenous agonists belong to lysoglycerophospholipids, with lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI) being the most studied. Peptide agonists derive from fragmentation of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). Although GPR55 and its ligands were implicated in several physiological and pathological conditions, their biological function remains unclear. Thus, the aim of the study was to conduct a large-scale re-analysis of publicly available gene expression datasets to identify physiological and pathological conditions affecting the expression of GPR55 and the production of its ligands. The study revealed that regulation of GPR55 occurs predominantly in the context of immune activation pointing towards the role of the receptor in response to pathogens and in immune cell lineage determination. Additionally, it was revealed that there is almost no overlap between the experimental conditions affecting the expression of GPR55 and those modulating agonist production. The capacity to synthesize LPI was enhanced in various types of tumors, indicating that cancer cells can hijack the motility-related activity of GPR55 to increase aggressiveness. Conditions favoring accumulation of PACAP-derived peptides were different than those for LPI and were mainly related to differentiation. This indicates a different function of the two agonist classes and possibly the existence of a signaling bias.
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Hajdú T, Kovács P, Zsigrai E, Takács R, Vágó J, Cho S, Sasi-Szabó L, Becsky D, Keller-Pinter A, Emri G, Rácz K, Reglodi D, Zákány R, Juhász T. Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide Has Inhibitory Effects on Melanoma Cell Proliferation and Migration In Vitro. Front Oncol 2021; 11:681603. [PMID: 34616669 PMCID: PMC8488289 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.681603] [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: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is an endogenous neuropeptide which is distributed throughout the body. PACAP influences development of various tissues and exerts protective function during cellular stress and in some tumour formation. No evidence is available on its role in neural crest derived melanocytes and its malignant transformation into melanoma. Expression of PACAP receptors was examined in human skin samples, melanoma lesions and in a primary melanocyte cell culture. A2058 and WM35 melanoma cell lines, representing two different stages of melanoma progression, were used to investigate the effects of PACAP. PAC1 receptor was identified in melanocytes in vivo and in vitro and in melanoma cell lines as well as in melanoma lesions. PACAP administration did not alter viability but decreased proliferation of melanoma cells. With live imaging random motility, average speed, vectorial distance and maximum distance of migration of cells were reduced upon PACAP treatment. PACAP administration did not alter viability but decreased proliferation capacity of melanoma cells. On the other hand, PACAP administration decreased the migration of melanoma cell lines towards fibronectin chemoattractant in the Boyden chamber. Furthermore, the presence of the neuropeptide inhibited the invasion capability of melanoma cell lines in Matrigel chambers. In summary, we provide evidence that PACAP receptors are expressed in melanocytes and in melanoma cells. Our results also prove that various aspects of the cellular motility were inhibited by this neuropeptide. On the basis of these results, we propose PACAP signalling as a possible target in melanoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor Hajdú
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Patrik Kovács
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Emese Zsigrai
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Roland Takács
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Judit Vágó
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Sinyoung Cho
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - László Sasi-Szabó
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Dániel Becsky
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Aniko Keller-Pinter
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Emri
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Kálmán Rácz
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, PTE-MTA PACAP Research Team, Szentagothai Research Center, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Róza Zákány
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Juhász
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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11
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D’Amico AG, Maugeri G, Vanella L, Pittalà V, Reglodi D, D’Agata V. Multimodal Role of PACAP in Glioblastoma. Brain Sci 2021; 11:994. [PMID: 34439613 PMCID: PMC8391398 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11080994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the deadliest form of brain tumors. To date, the GBM therapeutical approach consists of surgery, radiation-therapy and chemotherapy combined with molecules improving cancer responsiveness to treatments. In this review, we will present a brief overview of the GBM classification and pathogenesis, as well as the therapeutic approach currently used. Then, we will focus on the modulatory role exerted by pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide, known as PACAP, on GBM malignancy. Specifically, we will describe PACAP ability to interfere with GBM cell proliferation, as well as the tumoral microenvironment. Considering its anti-oncogenic role in GBM, synthesis of PACAP agonist molecules may open new perspectives for combined therapy to existing gold standard treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Grazia D’Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (L.V.); (V.P.)
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy;
| | - Luca Vanella
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (L.V.); (V.P.)
| | - Valeria Pittalà
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (L.V.); (V.P.)
| | - Dora Reglodi
- MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, Department of Anatomy, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy;
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12
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Abstract
AbstractPituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with widespread occurrence and diverse functions. PACAP binds to specific PAC1 and non-specific VPAC1/2 receptors. PACAP is considered as a growth factor, as it plays important roles during development and participates in reparative processes. Highest concentrations are found in the nervous system and endocrine glands, where several functions are known, including actions in tissue growth, differentiation and tumour development. Therefore, we have investigated expression of PACAP and its receptors in different tumours, including those of endocrine glands. We showed earlier that PACAP and PAC1 receptor staining intensity decreased in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. In the present study we aimed to investigate alterations of PACAP and PAC1 receptor in human insulinoma and compared the immunostaining pattern with samples from chronic pancreatitis patients. We collected perioperative and histological data of patients who underwent operation because of insulinoma or chronic pancreatitis over a five-year-long period. Histology showed chronic pancreatitis with severe scar formation in pancreatitis patients, while tumour samples evidenced Grade 1 or 2 insulinoma. PACAP and PAC1 receptor expression was studied using immunohistochemistry. Staining intensity was very strong in the Langerhans islets of normal tissue and discernible staining was also observed in the exocrine pancreas. Immunostaining intensity for both PACAP and PAC1 receptor was markedly weaker in insulinoma samples, and disappeared from chronic pancreatitis samples except for intact islets. These findings show that PAC1 receptor/PACAP signalling is altered in insulinoma and this suggests a possible involvement of this system in tumour growth or differentiation.
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13
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Moody TW, Ramos-Alvarez I, Jensen RT. Bombesin, endothelin, neurotensin and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide cause tyrosine phosphorylation of receptor tyrosine kinases. Peptides 2021; 137:170480. [PMID: 33385499 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2020.170480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Numerous peptides including bombesin (BB), endothelin (ET), neurotensin (NTS) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) are growth factors for lung cancer cells. The peptides bind to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) resulting in elevated cAMP and/or phosphatidylinositol (PI) turnover. In contrast, growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) or neuregulin (NRG)-1 bind to receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) such as the EGFR or HER3, increasing tyrosine kinase activity, resulting in the phosphorylation of protein substrates such as PI3K or phospholipase (PL)C. Peptide GPCRs can transactivate numerous RTKs, especially members of the EGFR/HER family resulting in increased phosphorylation of ERK, leading to cellular proliferation or increased phosphorylation of AKT, leading to cellular survival. GRCR antagonists and tyrosine kinase inhibitors are useful agents to prevent RTK transactivation and inhibit proliferation of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry W Moody
- Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Training, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Irene Ramos-Alvarez
- National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Disease, Digestive Diseases Branch, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892 USA
| | - Robert T Jensen
- National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Disease, Digestive Diseases Branch, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892 USA
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14
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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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