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Gising J, Honarnejad S, Bras M, Baillie GL, McElroy SP, Jones PS, Morrison A, Beveridge J, Hallberg M, Larhed M. The Discovery of New Inhibitors of Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase by a High-Throughput Screening of 400,000 Drug-like Compounds. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4084. [PMID: 38612894 PMCID: PMC11012289 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074084] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
With the ambition to identify novel chemical starting points that can be further optimized into small drug-like inhibitors of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) and serve as potential future cognitive enhancers in the clinic, we conducted an ultra-high-throughput screening campaign of a chemically diverse compound library of approximately 400,000 drug-like small molecules. Three biochemical and one biophysical assays were developed to enable large-scale screening and hit triaging. The screening funnel, designed to be compatible with high-density microplates, was established with two enzyme inhibition assays employing either fluorescent or absorbance readouts. As IRAP is a zinc-dependent enzyme, the remaining active compounds were further evaluated in the primary assay, albeit with the addition of zinc ions. Rescreening with zinc confirmed the inhibitory activity for most compounds, emphasizing a zinc-independent mechanism of action. Additionally, target engagement was confirmed using a complementary biophysical thermal shift assay where compounds causing positive/negative thermal shifts were considered genuine binders. Triaging based on biochemical activity, target engagement, and drug-likeness resulted in the selection of 50 qualified hits, of which the IC50 of 32 compounds was below 3.5 µM. Despite hydroxamic acid dominance, diverse chemotypes with biochemical activity and target engagement were discovered, including non-hydroxamic acid compounds. The most potent compound (QHL1) was resynthesized with a confirmed inhibitory IC50 of 320 nM. Amongst these compounds, 20 new compound structure classes were identified, providing many new starting points for the development of unique IRAP inhibitors. Detailed characterization and optimization of lead compounds, considering both hydroxamic acids and other diverse structures, are in progress for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Gising
- The Beijer Laboratory, Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (J.B.); (M.L.)
| | - Saman Honarnejad
- Pivot Park Screening Centre, Kloosterstraat 9, 5349 AB Oss, The Netherlands; (S.H.); (M.B.)
| | - Maaike Bras
- Pivot Park Screening Centre, Kloosterstraat 9, 5349 AB Oss, The Netherlands; (S.H.); (M.B.)
| | - Gemma L. Baillie
- BioAscent Discovery Ltd., Bo‘Ness Road, Newhouse, Motherwell ML1 5UH, UK; (G.L.B.); (S.P.M.); (P.S.J.); (A.M.)
| | - Stuart P. McElroy
- BioAscent Discovery Ltd., Bo‘Ness Road, Newhouse, Motherwell ML1 5UH, UK; (G.L.B.); (S.P.M.); (P.S.J.); (A.M.)
| | - Philip S. Jones
- BioAscent Discovery Ltd., Bo‘Ness Road, Newhouse, Motherwell ML1 5UH, UK; (G.L.B.); (S.P.M.); (P.S.J.); (A.M.)
| | - Angus Morrison
- BioAscent Discovery Ltd., Bo‘Ness Road, Newhouse, Motherwell ML1 5UH, UK; (G.L.B.); (S.P.M.); (P.S.J.); (A.M.)
| | - Julia Beveridge
- The Beijer Laboratory, Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (J.B.); (M.L.)
| | - Mathias Hallberg
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 591, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Mats Larhed
- The Beijer Laboratory, Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Biomedical Centre, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden; (J.B.); (M.L.)
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Engen K, Lundbäck T, Yadav A, Puthiyaparambath S, Rosenström U, Gising J, Jenmalm-Jensen A, Hallberg M, Larhed M. Inhibition of Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase by Imidazo [1,5-α]pyridines-Synthesis and Evaluation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2516. [PMID: 38473764 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052516] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) has been shown to improve cognitive functions in several animal models. Recently, we performed a screening campaign of approximately 10,000 compounds, identifying novel small-molecule-based compounds acting as inhibitors of the enzymatic activity of IRAP. Here we report on the chemical synthesis, structure-activity relationships (SAR) and initial characterization of physicochemical properties of a series of 48 imidazo [1,5-α]pyridine-based inhibitors, including delineation of their mode of action as non-competitive inhibitors with a small L-leucine-based IRAP substrate. The best compound displays an IC50 value of 1.0 µM. We elucidate the importance of two chiral sites in these molecules and find they have little impact on the compound's metabolic stability or physicochemical properties. The carbonyl group of a central urea moiety was initially believed to mimic substrate binding to a catalytically important Zn2+ ion in the active site, although the plausibility of this binding hypothesis is challenged by observation of excellent selectivity versus the closely related aminopeptidase N (APN). Taken together with the non-competitive inhibition pattern, we also consider an alternative model of allosteric binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Engen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thomas Lundbäck
- Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden (CBCS), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Chemical Biology and Genome Engineering, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 23A, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
- Mechanistic & Structural Biology, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, SE-431 83 Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Anubha Yadav
- The Beijer Laboratory, Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sharathna Puthiyaparambath
- The Beijer Laboratory, Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Rosenström
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johan Gising
- The Beijer Laboratory, Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Annika Jenmalm-Jensen
- Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden (CBCS), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Chemical Biology and Genome Engineering, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 23A, SE-171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Mathias Hallberg
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, Uppsala University, BMC, P.O. Box 591, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mats Larhed
- The Beijer Laboratory, Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, P.O. Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
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3
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Telianidis J, Hunter A, Widdop R, Kemp-Harper B, Pham V, McCarthy C, Chai SY. Inhibition of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase confers neuroprotection in a conscious model of ischemic stroke. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19722. [PMID: 37957163 PMCID: PMC10643421 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46072-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity with a paucity of effective pharmacological treatments. We have previously identified insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) as a potential target for the development of a new class of drugs for the treatment of stroke, as global deletion of this gene in mice significantly protected against ischemic damage. In the current study, we demonstrate that small molecular weight IRAP inhibitors reduce infarct volume and improve neurological outcome in a hypertensive animal model of ischemic stroke. The effects of two structurally distinct IRAP inhibitors (HFI419 or SJM164) were investigated in a model of stroke where the middle cerebral artery was transiently occluded with endothelin-1 in the conscious spontaneously hypertensive rat. IRAP inhibitor was administered into the lateral ventricle at 2 or 6 h after stroke, with subsequent doses delivered at 24, 48 and 70 h post-stroke. Functional outcomes were assessed prior to drug treatment, and on day 1 and 3 post-stroke. Histological analyses and neuroinflammatory cytokine profiling were conducted at 72 and 24 h post-stroke respectively. IRAP inhibitor treatment following stroke significantly reduced infarct volume and improved neurological and motor deficits. These protective effects were maintained even when the therapeutic window was extended to 6 h. Examination of the cellular architecture at 72 h post-stroke demonstrated that IRAP expression was upregulated in CD11b positive cells and activated astrocytes. Furthermore, IRAP inhibitor treatment significantly increased gene expression for interleukin 6 and C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 in the ischemic core. This study provides proof-of-principle that selective inhibition of IRAP activity with two structurally distinct IRAP inhibitors reduces infarct volume and improves functional outcome even when the first dose is administered 6 h post-stroke. This is the first direct evidence that IRAP inhibitors are a class of drug with potential use in the treatment of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon Telianidis
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Andrew Hunter
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Robert Widdop
- Department Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Barbara Kemp-Harper
- Department Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Vi Pham
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Claudia McCarthy
- Department Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Siew Yeen Chai
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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The Impact of microRNAs in Renin-Angiotensin-System-Induced Cardiac Remodelling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094762. [PMID: 33946230 PMCID: PMC8124994 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Current knowledge on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) indicates its central role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular remodelling via both hemodynamic alterations and direct growth and the proliferation effects of angiotensin II or aldosterone resulting in the hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes, the proliferation of fibroblasts, and inflammatory immune cell activation. The noncoding regulatory microRNAs has recently emerged as a completely novel approach to the study of the RAS. A growing number of microRNAs serve as mediators and/or regulators of RAS-induced cardiac remodelling by directly targeting RAS enzymes, receptors, signalling molecules, or inhibitors of signalling pathways. Specifically, microRNAs that directly modulate pro-hypertrophic, pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory signalling initiated by angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R) stimulation are of particular relevance in mediating the cardiovascular effects of the RAS. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge in the field that is still in the early stage of preclinical investigation with occasionally conflicting reports. Understanding the big picture of microRNAs not only aids in the improved understanding of cardiac response to injury but also leads to better therapeutic strategies utilizing microRNAs as biomarkers, therapeutic agents and pharmacological targets.
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Vanga SR, Åqvist J, Hallberg A, Gutiérrez-de-Terán H. Structural Basis of Inhibition of Human Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase (IRAP) by Benzopyran-Based Inhibitors. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:625274. [PMID: 33869280 PMCID: PMC8047434 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.625274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) improves memory and cognition in animal models. The enzyme has recently been crystallized and several series of inhibitors reported. We herein focused on one series of benzopyran-based inhibitors of IRAP known as the HFI series, with unresolved binding mode to IRAP, and developed a robust computational model to explain the structure-activity relationship (SAR) and potentially guide their further optimization. The binding model here proposed places the benzopyran ring in the catalytic binding site, coordinating the Zn2+ ion through the oxygen in position 3, in contrast to previous hypothesis. The whole series of HFI compounds was then systematically simulated, starting from this binding mode, using molecular dynamics and binding affinity estimated with the linear interaction energy (LIE) method. The agreement with experimental affinities supports the binding mode proposed, which was further challenged by rigorous free energy perturbation (FEP) calculations. Here, we found excellent correlation between experimental and calculated binding affinity differences, both between selected compound pairs and also for recently reported experimental data concerning the site directed mutagenesis of residue Phe544. The computationally derived structure-activity relationship of the HFI series and the understanding of the involvement of Phe544 in the binding of this scaffold provide valuable information for further lead optimization of novel IRAP inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Johan Åqvist
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hugo Gutiérrez-de-Terán
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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6
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Hallberg M, Larhed M. From Angiotensin IV to Small Peptidemimetics Inhibiting Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:590855. [PMID: 33178027 PMCID: PMC7593869 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.590855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
It was reported three decades ago that intracerebroventricular injection of angiotensin IV (Ang IV, Val-Tyr-Ile-His-Pro-Phe) improved memory and learning in the rat. There are several explanations for these positive effects of the hexapeptide and related analogues on cognition available in the literature. In 2001, it was proposed that the insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) is a main target for Ang IV and that Ang IV serves as an inhibitor of the enzyme. The focus of this review is the efforts to stepwise transform the hexapeptide into more drug-like Ang IV peptidemimetics serving as IRAP inhibitors. Moreover, the discovery of IRAP inhibitors by virtual and substance library screening and direct design applying knowledge of the structure of IRAP and of related enzymes is briefly presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Hallberg
- The Beijer Laboratory, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mats Larhed
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Science for Life Laboratory, BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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7
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Vear A, Gaspari T, Thompson P, Chai SY. Is There an Interplay Between the Functional Domains of IRAP? Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:585237. [PMID: 33134302 PMCID: PMC7550531 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.585237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
As a member of the M1 family of aminopeptidases, insulin regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) is characterized by distinct binding motifs at the active site in the C-terminal domain that mediate the catalysis of peptide substrates. However, what makes IRAP unique in this family of enzymes is that it also possesses trafficking motifs at the N-terminal domain which regulate the movement of IRAP within different intracellular compartments. Research on the role of IRAP has focused predominantly on the C-terminus catalytic domain in different physiological and pathophysiological states ranging from pregnancy to memory loss. Many of these studies have utilized IRAP inhibitors, that bind competitively to the active site of IRAP, to explore the functional significance of its catalytic activity. However, it is unknown whether these inhibitors are able to access intracellular sites where IRAP is predominantly located in a basal state as the enzyme may need to be at the cell surface for the inhibitors to mediate their effects. This property of IRAP has often been overlooked. Interestingly, in some pathophysiological states, the distribution of IRAP is altered. This, together with the fact that IRAP possesses trafficking motifs, suggest the localization of IRAP may play an important role in defining its physiological or pathological functions and provide insights into the interplay between the two functional domains of the protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Vear
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Tracey Gaspari
- Department of Pharmacology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Philip Thompson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Siew Yeen Chai
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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8
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Ali A, Alzeyoudi SAR, Almutawa SA, Alnajjar AN, Vijayan R. Molecular basis of the therapeutic properties of hemorphins. Pharmacol Res 2020; 158:104855. [PMID: 32438036 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hemorphins are endogenous peptides, 4-10 amino acids long, belonging to the family of atypical opioid peptides released during the sequential cleavage of hemoglobin protein. Hemorphins have been shown to exhibit diverse therapeutic effects in both human and animal models. However, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in such effects remain elusive. In this review, we summarize and propose potential mechanisms based on studies that investigated the biological activity of hemorphins of different lengths on multiple therapeutic targets. Special emphasis is given to molecular events related to renin-angiotensin system (RAS), opioid receptors and insulin-regulated aminopeptidase receptor (IRAP). This review provides a comprehensive coverage of the molecular mechanisms that underpin the therapeutic potential of hemorphins. Furthermore, it highlights the role of various hemorphin residues in pathological conditions, which could be explored further for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanat Ali
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Shamma Abdulla Almutawa
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alya Nasir Alnajjar
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ranjit Vijayan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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Wright JW, Harding JW. Contributions by the Brain Renin-Angiotensin System to Memory, Cognition, and Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 67:469-480. [PMID: 30664507 DOI: 10.3233/jad-181035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive neuron losses in memory-associated brain structures that rob patients of their dignity and quality of life. Five drugs have been approved by the FDA to treat AD but none modify or significantly slow disease progression. New therapies are needed to delay the course of this disease with the ultimate goal of preventing neuron losses and preserving memory functioning. In this review we describe the renin-angiotensin II (AngII) system (RAS) with specific regard to its deleterious contributions to hypertension, facilitation of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, reduced cerebral blood flow, tissue remodeling, and disruption of memory consolidation and retrieval. There is evidence that components of the RAS, AngIV and Ang(1-7), are positioned to counter such damaging influences and these systems are detailed with the goal of drawing attention to their importance as drug development targets. Ang(1-7) binds at the Mas receptor, while AngIV binds at the AT4 receptor subtype, and these receptor numbers are significantly decreased in AD patients, accompanied by declines in brain aminopeptidases A and N, enzymes essential for the synthesis of AngIV. Potent analogs may be useful to counter these changes and facilitate neuronal functioning and reduce apoptosis in memory associated brain structures of AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Wright
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.,Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.,M3 Biotechnology, Inc., Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joseph W Harding
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.,Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.,M3 Biotechnology, Inc., Seattle, WA, USA
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10
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Seyer B, Diwakarla S, Burns P, Hallberg A, Grӧnbladh A, Hallberg M, Chai SY. Insulin-regulated aminopeptidase inhibitor-mediated increases in dendritic spine density are facilitated by glucose uptake. J Neurochem 2019; 153:485-494. [PMID: 31556456 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ethyl2-acetylamino-7-hydroxy-4-pyridin-3-yl-4H-chromene-3-carboxylate (HFI-419), the benzopyran-based inhibitor of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), has previously been shown to improve spatial working and recognition memory in rodents. However, the mechanism of its cognitive-enhancing effect remains unknown. There is a close correlation between dendritic spine density and learning in vivo and several studies suggest that increases in neuronal glucose uptake and/or alterations to the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may improve memory and increase dendritic spine density. We aimed to identify the potential mechanism by which HFI-419 enhances memory by utilizing rat primary cultures of hippocampal cells. Alterations to dendritic spine density were assessed in the presence of varying concentrations of HFI-419 at different stages of hippocampal cell development. In addition, glucose uptake and changes to spine density were assessed in the presence of indinavir, an inhibitor of the glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4 ), or the matrix metalloprotease inhibitor CAS 204140-01-2. We confirmed that inhibition of IRAP activity with HFI-419 enhanced spatial working memory in rats, and determined that this enhancement may be driven by GLUT4 -mediated changes to dendritic spine density. We observed that IRAP inhibition increased dendritic spine density prior to peak dendritic growth in hippocampal neurons, and that spine formation was inhibited when GLUT4 -mediated glucose uptake was blocked. In addition, during the peak phase of dendritic spine growth, the effect of IRAP inhibition on enhancement of dendritic spine density resulted specifically in an increase in the proportion of mushroom/stubby-like spines, a morphology associated with memory and learning. Moreover, these spines were deemed to be functional based on their expression of the pre-synaptic markers vesicular glutamate transporter 1 and synapsin. Overall, or findings suggest that IRAP inhibitors may facilitate memory by increasing hippocampal dendritic spine density via a GLUT4 -mediated mechanism. Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14745.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Seyer
- Faculty of Biomedical and Psychological Sciences, Department of Physiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Shanti Diwakarla
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Uppsala University, BMC, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peta Burns
- Faculty of Biomedical and Psychological Sciences, Department of Physiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alfhild Grӧnbladh
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Uppsala University, BMC, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mathias Hallberg
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Uppsala University, BMC, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Siew Yeen Chai
- Faculty of Biomedical and Psychological Sciences, Department of Physiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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11
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Molecular insights into the interaction of hemorphin and its targets. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14747. [PMID: 31611567 PMCID: PMC6791854 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50619-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemorphins are atypical endogenous opioid peptides produced by the cleavage of hemoglobin beta chain. Several studies have reported the therapeutic potential of hemorphin in memory enhancement, blood regulation, and analgesia. However, the mode of interaction of hemorphin with its target remains largely elusive. The decapeptide LVV-hemorphin-7 is the most stable form of hemorphin. It binds with high affinity to mu-opioid receptors (MOR), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP). In this study, computational methods were used extensively to elucidate the most likely binding pose of mammalian LVV-hemorphin-7 with the aforementioned proteins and to calculate the binding affinity. Additionally, alignment of mammalian hemorphin sequences showed that the hemorphin sequence of the camel harbors a variation - a Q > R substitution at position 8. This study also investigated the binding affinity and the interaction mechanism of camel LVV-hemorphin-7 with these proteins. To gain a better understanding of the dynamics of the molecular interactions between the selected targets and hemorphin peptides, 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations of the best-ranked poses were performed. Simulations highlighted major interactions between the peptides and key residues in the binding site of the proteins. Interestingly, camel hemorphin had a higher binding affinity and showed more interactions with all three proteins when compared to the canonical mammalian LVV-hemorphin-7. Thus, camel LVV-hemorphin-7 could be explored as a potent therapeutic agent for memory loss, hypertension, and analgesia.
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12
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Arendse LB, Danser AHJ, Poglitsch M, Touyz RM, Burnett JC, Llorens-Cortes C, Ehlers MR, Sturrock ED. Novel Therapeutic Approaches Targeting the Renin-Angiotensin System and Associated Peptides in Hypertension and Heart Failure. Pharmacol Rev 2019; 71:539-570. [PMID: 31537750 PMCID: PMC6782023 DOI: 10.1124/pr.118.017129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the success of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockade by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blockers, current therapies for hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases are still inadequate. Identification of additional components of the RAS and associated vasoactive pathways, as well as new structural and functional insights into established targets, have led to novel therapeutic approaches with the potential to provide improved cardiovascular protection and better blood pressure control and/or reduced adverse side effects. The simultaneous modulation of several neurohumoral mediators in key interconnected blood pressure-regulating pathways has been an attractive approach to improve treatment efficacy, and several novel approaches involve combination therapy or dual-acting agents. In addition, increased understanding of the complexity of the RAS has led to novel approaches aimed at upregulating the ACE2/angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas axis to counter-regulate the harmful effects of the ACE/angiotensin II/angiotensin III/AT1R axis. These advances have opened new avenues for the development of novel drugs targeting the RAS to better treat hypertension and heart failure. Here we focus on new therapies in preclinical and early clinical stages of development, including novel small molecule inhibitors and receptor agonists/antagonists, less conventional strategies such as gene therapy to suppress angiotensinogen at the RNA level, recombinant ACE2 protein, and novel bispecific designer peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren B Arendse
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
| | - Marko Poglitsch
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
| | - Rhian M Touyz
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
| | - John C Burnett
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
| | - Catherine Llorens-Cortes
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
| | - Mario R Ehlers
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
| | - Edward D Sturrock
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa (L.B.A., E.D.S.); Division of Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands (A.H.J.D.); Attoquant Diagnostics, Vienna, Austria (M.P.); Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom (R.M.T.); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota (J.C.B.); Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Paris, France (C.L.-C.); and Clinical Trials Group, Immune Tolerance Network, San Francisco, California (M.R.E.)
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13
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Chow LH, Chen YH, Lai CF, Lin TY, Chen YJ, Kao JH, Huang EYK. Sex Difference of Angiotensin IV-, LVV-Hemorphin 7-, and Oxytocin-Induced Antiallodynia at the Spinal Level in Mice With Neuropathic Pain. Anesth Analg 2019; 126:2093-2101. [PMID: 29381512 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000002795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We demonstrated previously that angiotensin IV (Ang IV) and LVV-hemorphin 7 (LVV-H7) act through the blockade of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase to decrease oxytocin degradation, thereby causing antihyperalgesia at the spinal level in rats. We determined that intrathecal oxytocin can induce significant antihyperalgesia in male rats with inflammation but not in female rats. Thus, we speculate that Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin can induce antiallodynia, which could be of great therapeutic potential. Because the antihyperalgesia by using these peptides was with sex difference, their possible antiallodynia was examined in male and female mice for comparison. We investigated whether Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin produce antiallodynia at the spinal level in mice and whether this antiallodynia differs between the sexes. METHODS Partial sciatic nerve ligation surgery was performed on adult male and female C57BL/6 mice from the same litter (25-30 g). The effects of intrathecal injections of Ang IV (25.8 nmol), LVV-H7 (27.2 nmol), and oxytocin (0.125 or 1.25 nmol) were assessed through the von Frey test 3 days after partial sciatic nerve ligation. RESULTS Intrathecal injection of Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin all produced a potent antiallodynia in male mice. However, these antiallodynia effects were either extremely weak or absent in female mice at the same dose. CONCLUSIONS Intrathecal Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin can all cause significant antiallodynia in male mice. The Ang IV-, LVV-H7-, and oxytocin-induced antiallodynia effects differed between the sexes at the spinal level in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lok-Hi Chow
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,National Yang-Ming University, School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Departments of Anesthesiology
| | - Yuan-Hao Chen
- Neurological Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Fu Lai
- Department of Family Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital Songshan Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsu-You Lin
- Department of Family Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital Songshan Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Jie Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jen-Hsin Kao
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Eagle Yi-Kung Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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14
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Haspula D, Clark MA. Molecular Basis of the Brain Renin Angiotensin System in Cardiovascular and Neurologic Disorders: Uncovering a Key Role for the Astroglial Angiotensin Type 1 Receptor AT1R. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 366:251-264. [PMID: 29752427 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.248831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The central renin angiotensin system (RAS) is one of the most widely investigated cardiovascular systems in the brain. It is implicated in a myriad of cardiovascular diseases. However, studies from the last decade have identified its involvement in several neurologic abnormalities. Understanding the molecular functionality of the various RAS components can thus provide considerable insight into the phenotypic differences and mechanistic drivers of not just cardiovascular but also neurologic disorders. Since activation of one of its primary receptors, the angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R), results in an augmentation of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines, it becomes essential to investigate not just neuronal RAS but glial RAS as well. Glial cells are key homeostatic regulators in the brain and are critical players in the resolution of overt oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Designing better and effective therapeutic strategies that target the brain RAS could well hinge on understanding the molecular basis of both neuronal and glial RAS. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the major studies that have investigated the mechanisms and regulation of the brain RAS, and it also provides insight into the potential role of glial AT1Rs in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular and neurologic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanush Haspula
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (D.H.); and College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida (M.A.C.)
| | - Michelle A Clark
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (D.H.); and College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida (M.A.C.)
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15
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Ho JK, Nation DA. Cognitive benefits of angiotensin IV and angiotensin-(1-7): A systematic review of experimental studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 92:209-225. [PMID: 29733881 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore effects of the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) on cognition. DESIGN Systematic review of experimental (non-human) studies assessing cognitive effects of RAS peptides angiotensin-(3-8) [Ang IV] and angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] and their receptors, the Ang IV receptor (AT4R) and the Mas receptor. RESULTS Of 450 articles identified, 32 met inclusion criteria. Seven of 11 studies of normal animals found Ang IV had beneficial effects on tests of passive or conditioned avoidance and object recognition. In models of cognitive deficit, eight of nine studies found Ang IV and its analogs (Nle1-Ang IV, dihexa, LVV-hemorphin-7) improved performance on spatial working memory and passive avoidance tasks. Two of three studies examining Ang-(1-7) found it benefited memory. Mas receptor removal was associated with reduced fear memory in one study. CONCLUSION Studies of cognitive impairment show salutary effects of acute administration of Ang IV and its analogs, as well as AT4R activation. Brain RAS peptides appear most effective administered intracerebroventricularly, close to the time of learning acquisition or retention testing. Ang-(1-7) shows anti-dementia qualities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean K Ho
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Daniel A Nation
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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16
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Vanga SR, Sävmarker J, Ng L, Larhed M, Hallberg M, Åqvist J, Hallberg A, Chai SY, Gutiérrez-de-Terán H. Structural Basis of Inhibition of Human Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase (IRAP) by Aryl Sulfonamides. ACS OMEGA 2018; 3:4509-4521. [PMID: 30023895 PMCID: PMC6045421 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b00595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) is a membrane-bound zinc metallopeptidase with many important regulatory functions. It has been demonstrated that inhibition of IRAP by angiotensin IV (Ang IV) and other peptides, as well as more druglike inhibitors, improves cognition in several rodent models. We recently reported a series of aryl sulfonamides as small-molecule IRAP inhibitors and a promising scaffold for pharmacological intervention. We have now expanded with a number of derivatives, report their stability in liver microsomes, and characterize the activity of the whole series in a new assay performed on recombinant human IRAP. Several compounds, such as the new fluorinated derivative 29, present submicromolar affinity and high metabolic stability. Starting from the two binding modes previously proposed for the sulfonamide scaffold, we systematically performed molecular dynamics simulations and binding affinity estimation with the linear interaction energy method for the full compound series. The significant agreement with experimental affinities suggests one of the binding modes, which was further confirmed by the excellent correlation for binding affinity differences between the selected pair of compounds obtained by rigorous free energy perturbation calculations. The new experimental data and the computationally derived structure-activity relationship of the sulfonamide series provide valuable information for further lead optimization of novel IRAP inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarsana Reddy Vanga
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology, BMC, Box 596, Uppsala University, SE-751
24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jonas Sävmarker
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Science for Life Laboratory, Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University,
BMC, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Leelee Ng
- Biomedicine
Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Mats Larhed
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Science for Life Laboratory, Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University,
BMC, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mathias Hallberg
- The
Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division
of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Uppsala University, BMC, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johan Åqvist
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology, BMC, Box 596, Uppsala University, SE-751
24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Science for Life Laboratory, Department
of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University,
BMC, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Siew Yeen Chai
- Biomedicine
Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- E-mail: . Phone: +61 3 990 52515. Fax: +61 3 990 52547 (S.Y.C.)
| | - Hugo Gutiérrez-de-Terán
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology, BMC, Box 596, Uppsala University, SE-751
24 Uppsala, Sweden
- E-mail: . Phone: +46 18 471 5056. Fax: +46 18 53 69 71 (H.G.-d.-T.)
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17
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Angiotensin IV Receptors Mediate the Cognitive and Cerebrovascular Benefits of Losartan in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. J Neurosci 2017; 37:5562-5573. [PMID: 28476949 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0329-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) correlates with reduced onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The mechanism depicting how ARBs such as losartan restore cerebrovascular and cognitive deficits in AD is unknown. Here, we propose a mechanism underlying losartan's benefits by selectively blocking the effects of angiotensin IV (AngIV) at its receptor (AT4R) with divalinal in mice overexpressing the AD-related Swedish and Indiana mutations of the human amyloid precursor protein (APP mice) and WT mice. Young (3-month-old) mice were treated with losartan (∼10 mg/kg/d, 4 months), followed by intracerebroventricular administration of vehicle or divalinal in the final month of treatment. Spatial learning and memory were assessed using Morris water mazes at 3 and 4 months of losartan treatment. Cerebrovascular reactivity and whisker-evoked neurovascular coupling responses were measured at end point (∼7 months of age), together with biomarkers related to neuronal and vascular oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase-2), neuroinflammation (astroglial and microglial activation), neurogenesis (BrdU-labeled newborn cells), and amyloidosis [soluble amyloid-β (Aβ) species and Aβ plaque load]. Divalinal countered losartan's capacity to rescue spatial learning and memory and blocked losartan's benefits on dilatory function and baseline nitric oxide bioavailability. Divalinal reverted losartan's anti-inflammatory effects, but failed to modify losartan-mediated reductions in oxidative stress. Neither losartan nor divalinal affected arterial blood pressure or significantly altered the amyloid pathology in APP mice. Our findings identify activation of the AngIV/AT4R cascade as the underlying mechanism in losartan's benefits and a target that could restore Aβ-related cognitive and cerebrovascular deficits in AD.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Antihypertensive medications that target the renin angiotensin system, such as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), have been associated with lower incidence and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in cohort studies. However, the manner by which ARBs mediate their beneficial effects is unknown. Here, the angiotensin IV receptor (AT4R) was identified as mediating the cognitive and cerebrovascular rescue of losartan, a commonly prescribed ARB, in a mouse model of AD. The AT4R was further implicated in mediating anti-inflammatory benefits. AT4R-mediated effects were independent from changes in blood pressure, amyloidosis, and oxidative stress. Overall, our results implicate the angiotensin IV/AT4R cascade as a promising candidate for AD intervention.
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18
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Engen K, Rosenström U, Axelsson H, Konda V, Dahllund L, Otrocka M, Sigmundsson K, Nikolaou A, Vauquelin G, Hallberg M, Jenmalm Jensen A, Lundbäck T, Larhed M. Identification of Drug-Like Inhibitors of Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase Through Small-Molecule Screening. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2016; 14:180-93. [PMID: 27078680 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2016.708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracerebroventricular injection of angiotensin IV, a ligand of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), has been shown to improve cognitive functions in several animal models. Consequently, IRAP is considered a potential target for treatment of cognitive disorders. To identify nonpeptidic IRAP inhibitors, we adapted an established enzymatic assay based on membrane preparations from Chinese hamster ovary cells and a synthetic peptide-like substrate for high-throughput screening purposes. The 384-well microplate-based absorbance assay was used to screen a diverse set of 10,500 compounds for their inhibitory capacity of IRAP. The assay performance was robust with Z'-values ranging from 0.81 to 0.91, and the screen resulted in 23 compounds that displayed greater than 60% inhibition at a compound concentration of 10 μM. After hit confirmation experiments, purity analysis, and promiscuity investigations, three structurally different compounds were considered particularly interesting as starting points for the development of small-molecule-based IRAP inhibitors. After resynthesis, all three compounds confirmed low μM activity and were shown to be rapidly reversible. Additional characterization included activity in a fluorescence-based orthogonal assay and in the presence of a nonionic detergent and a reducing agent, respectively. Importantly, the characterized compounds also showed inhibition of the human ortholog, prompting our further interest in these novel IRAP inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Engen
- 1 Division of Organic Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Rosenström
- 1 Division of Organic Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hanna Axelsson
- 2 Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory Stockholm, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet , Solna, Sweden
| | - Vivek Konda
- 1 Division of Organic Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Leif Dahllund
- 3 Drug Discovery and Development Platform, Science for Life Laboratory Stockholm , Solna, Sweden
| | - Magdalena Otrocka
- 2 Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory Stockholm, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet , Solna, Sweden
| | - Kristmundur Sigmundsson
- 2 Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory Stockholm, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet , Solna, Sweden
| | - Alexandros Nikolaou
- 4 Department of Molecular and Biochemical Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Georges Vauquelin
- 4 Department of Molecular and Biochemical Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel , Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathias Hallberg
- 5 Beijer Laboratory, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Annika Jenmalm Jensen
- 2 Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory Stockholm, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet , Solna, Sweden
| | - Thomas Lundbäck
- 2 Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory Stockholm, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet , Solna, Sweden
| | - Mats Larhed
- 6 Science for Life Laboratory Uppsala, Division of Organic Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University , Uppsala, Sweden
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19
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Diwakarla S, Nylander E, Grönbladh A, Vanga SR, Khan YS, Gutiérrez-de-Terán H, Ng L, Pham V, Sävmarker J, Lundbäck T, Jenmalm-Jensen A, Andersson H, Engen K, Rosenström U, Larhed M, Åqvist J, Chai SY, Hallberg M. Binding to and Inhibition of Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase by Macrocyclic Disulfides Enhances Spine Density. Mol Pharmacol 2016; 89:413-24. [PMID: 26769413 DOI: 10.1124/mol.115.102533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin IV (Ang IV) and related peptide analogs, as well as nonpeptide inhibitors of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), have previously been shown to enhance memory and cognition in animal models. Furthermore, the endogenous IRAP substrates oxytocin and vasopressin are known to facilitate learning and memory. In this study, the two recently synthesized 13-membered macrocyclic competitive IRAP inhibitors HA08 and HA09, which were designed to mimic the N terminus of oxytocin and vasopressin, were assessed and compared based on their ability to bind to the IRAP active site, and alter dendritic spine density in rat hippocampal primary cultures. The binding modes of the IRAP inhibitors HA08, HA09, and of Ang IV in either the extended or γ-turn conformation at the C terminus to human IRAP were predicted by docking and molecular dynamics simulations. The binding free energies calculated with the linear interaction energy method, which are in excellent agreement with experimental data and simulations, have been used to explain the differences in activities of the IRAP inhibitors, both of which are structurally very similar, but differ only with regard to one stereogenic center. In addition, we show that HA08, which is 100-fold more potent than the epimer HA09, can enhance dendritic spine number and alter morphology, a process associated with memory facilitation. Therefore, HA08, one of the most potent IRAP inhibitors known today, may serve as a suitable starting point for medicinal chemistry programs aided by MD simulations aimed at discovering more drug-like cognitive enhancers acting via augmenting synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanti Diwakarla
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Erik Nylander
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alfhild Grönbladh
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sudarsana Reddy Vanga
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yasmin Shamsudin Khan
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hugo Gutiérrez-de-Terán
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Leelee Ng
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Vi Pham
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jonas Sävmarker
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Thomas Lundbäck
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Annika Jenmalm-Jensen
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hanna Andersson
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Karin Engen
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ulrika Rosenström
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mats Larhed
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Johan Åqvist
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Siew Yeen Chai
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mathias Hallberg
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence (S.D., E.N., A.G., M.H.), Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (S.R.V., Y.S.K., H.G.T., J.A.), The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (J.S.), Department of Medicinal Chemistry (H.A., K.E., U.R.), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Medicinal Chemistry (M.L.), BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics (T.L., A.J.), Karolinska Institute, Sweden; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology (L.N., V.P., S.Y.C.), Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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20
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Boegehold MA, Drenjancevic I, Lombard JH. Salt, Angiotensin II, Superoxide, and Endothelial Function. Compr Physiol 2015; 6:215-54. [PMID: 26756632 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c150008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Proper function of the vascular endothelium is essential for cardiovascular health, in large part due to its antiproliferative, antihypertrophic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Crucial to the protective role of the endothelium is the production and liberation of nitric oxide (NO), which not only acts as a potent vasodilator, but also reduces levels of reactive oxygen species, including superoxide anion (O2•-). Superoxide anion is highly injurious to the vasculature because it not only scavenges NO molecules, but has other damaging effects, including direct oxidative disruption of normal signaling mechanisms in the endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells. The renin-angiotensin system plays a crucial role in the maintenance of normal blood pressure. This function is mediated via the peptide hormone angiotensin II (ANG II), which maintains normal blood volume by regulating Na+ excretion. However, elevation of ANG II above normal levels increases O2•- production, promotes oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction, and plays a major role in multiple disease conditions. Elevated dietary salt intake also leads to oxidant stress and endothelial dysfunction, but these occur in the face of salt-induced ANG II suppression and reduced levels of circulating ANG II. While the effects of abnormally high levels of ANG II have been extensively studied, far less is known regarding the mechanisms of oxidant stress and endothelial dysfunction occurring in response to chronic exposure to abnormally low levels of ANG II. The current article focuses on the mechanisms and consequences of this less well understood relationship among salt, superoxide, and endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ines Drenjancevic
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Julian H Lombard
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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21
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Chow LH, Tao PL, Chen YH, Lin YH, Huang EYK. Angiotensin IV possibly acts through PKMzeta in the hippocampus to regulate cognitive memory in rats. Neuropeptides 2015; 53:1-10. [PMID: 26412453 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Ang IV is an endogenous peptide generated from the degradation of angiotensin II. Ang IV was found to enhance learning and memory in CNS. PKMzeta was identified to be a fragment of PKCzeta (protein kinase Czeta). Its continuous activation was demonstrated to be correlated with the formation of memory in the hippocampus. Therefore, we investigated whether PKMzeta participates in the effects of Ang IV on memory. We first examined the effect of Ang IV on non-spatial memory/cognition in modified object recognition test in rats. Our data showed that Ang IV could increase the exploration time on novel object. The co-administration of ZIP (PKMzeta inhibitor) with Ang IV significantly blocked the effect by Ang IV. The effects of Ang IV on hippocampal LTP at the CA1 region were also evaluated. Ang IV significantly increased the amplitude and slope of the EPSPs, which was consistent with other reports. Surprisingly, instead of potentiating LTP, Ang IV caused a failed maintenance of LTP. Moreover, there was no quantitative change in PKMzeta induced by Ang IV and/or ZIP after behavioral experiments. Taken together, our data re-confirmed the finding of the positive effect of Ang IV to enhance memory/cognition. The increased strength of EPSPs with Ang IV could also have certain functional relevance. Since the behavioral results suggested the involvement of PKMzeta, we hypothesized that the enhancement of memory/cognition by Ang IV may rely on an increase in PKMzeta activity. Overall, the present study provided important advances in our understanding of the action of Ang IV in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lok-Hi Chow
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Nei-Hu, 114 Taipei, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Pao-Luh Tao
- Center for Neuropsychiatric Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli County 350, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yuan-Hao Chen
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Nei-Hu, 114 Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yu-Hui Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Nei-Hu, 114 Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Eagle Yi-Kung Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, National Defense Medical Center, Nei-Hu, 114 Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
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22
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Karnik SS, Unal H, Kemp JR, Tirupula KC, Eguchi S, Vanderheyden PML, Thomas WG. International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. XCIX. Angiotensin Receptors: Interpreters of Pathophysiological Angiotensinergic Stimuli [corrected]. Pharmacol Rev 2015; 67:754-819. [PMID: 26315714 PMCID: PMC4630565 DOI: 10.1124/pr.114.010454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The renin angiotensin system (RAS) produced hormone peptides regulate many vital body functions. Dysfunctional signaling by receptors for RAS peptides leads to pathologic states. Nearly half of humanity today would likely benefit from modern drugs targeting these receptors. The receptors for RAS peptides consist of three G-protein-coupled receptors—the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1 receptor), the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2 receptor), the MAS receptor—and a type II trans-membrane zinc protein—the candidate angiotensin IV receptor (AngIV binding site). The prorenin receptor is a relatively new contender for consideration, but is not included here because the role of prorenin receptor as an independent endocrine mediator is presently unclear. The full spectrum of biologic characteristics of these receptors is still evolving, but there is evidence establishing unique roles of each receptor in cardiovascular, hemodynamic, neurologic, renal, and endothelial functions, as well as in cell proliferation, survival, matrix-cell interaction, and inflammation. Therapeutic agents targeted to these receptors are either in active use in clinical intervention of major common diseases or under evaluation for repurposing in many other disorders. Broad-spectrum influence these receptors produce in complex pathophysiological context in our body highlights their role as precise interpreters of distinctive angiotensinergic peptide cues. This review article summarizes findings published in the last 15 years on the structure, pharmacology, signaling, physiology, and disease states related to angiotensin receptors. We also discuss the challenges the pharmacologist presently faces in formally accepting newer members as established angiotensin receptors and emphasize necessary future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadashiva S Karnik
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Hamiyet Unal
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Jacqueline R Kemp
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Kalyan C Tirupula
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Satoru Eguchi
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Patrick M L Vanderheyden
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
| | - Walter G Thomas
- Department of Molecular Cardiology, Lerner Research Institute of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio (S.S.K., H.U., J.R.K., K.C.T.); Cardiovascular Research Center, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (S.E.); Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium (P.M.L.V.); and Department of General Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (W.G.T.)
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23
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Hallberg M. Neuropeptides: metabolism to bioactive fragments and the pharmacology of their receptors. Med Res Rev 2015; 35:464-519. [PMID: 24894913 DOI: 10.1002/med.21323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
The proteolytic processing of neuropeptides has an important regulatory function and the peptide fragments resulting from the enzymatic degradation often exert essential physiological roles. The proteolytic processing generates, not only biologically inactive fragments, but also bioactive fragments that modulate or even counteract the response of their parent peptides. Frequently, these peptide fragments interact with receptors that are not recognized by the parent peptides. This review discusses tachykinins, opioid peptides, angiotensins, bradykinins, and neuropeptide Y that are present in the central nervous system and their processing to bioactive degradation products. These well-known neuropeptide systems have been selected since they provide illustrative examples that proteolytic degradation of parent peptides can lead to bioactive metabolites with different biological activities as compared to their parent peptides. For example, substance P, dynorphin A, angiotensin I and II, bradykinin, and neuropeptide Y are all degraded to bioactive fragments with pharmacological profiles that differ considerably from those of the parent peptides. The review discusses a selection of the large number of drug-like molecules that act as agonists or antagonists at receptors of neuropeptides. It focuses in particular on the efforts to identify selective drug-like agonists and antagonists mimicking the effects of the endogenous peptide fragments formed. As exemplified in this review, many common neuropeptides are degraded to a variety of smaller fragments but many of the fragments generated have not yet been examined in detail with regard to their potential biological activities. Since these bioactive fragments contain a small number of amino acid residues, they provide an ideal starting point for the development of drug-like substances with ability to mimic the effects of the degradation products. Thus, these substances could provide a rich source of new pharmaceuticals. However, as discussed herein relatively few examples have so far been disclosed of successful attempts to create bioavailable, drug-like agonists or antagonists, starting from the structure of endogenous peptide fragments and applying procedures relying on stepwise manipulations and simplifications of the peptide structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Hallberg
- Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on Drug Dependence, Uppsala University, Biomedical Center, Uppsala, Sweden
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Hermans SJ, Ascher DB, Hancock NC, Holien JK, Michell BJ, Chai SY, Morton CJ, Parker MW. Crystal structure of human insulin-regulated aminopeptidase with specificity for cyclic peptides. Protein Sci 2014; 24:190-9. [PMID: 25408552 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP or oxytocinase) is a membrane-bound zinc-metallopeptidase that cleaves neuroactive peptides in the brain and produces memory enhancing effects when inhibited. We have determined the crystal structure of human IRAP revealing a closed, four domain arrangement with a large, mostly buried cavity abutting the active site. The structure reveals that the GAMEN exopeptidase loop adopts a very different conformation from other aminopeptidases, thus explaining IRAP's unique specificity for cyclic peptides such as oxytocin and vasopressin. Computational docking of a series of IRAP-specific cognitive enhancers into the crystal structure provides a molecular basis for their structure-activity relationships and demonstrates that the structure will be a powerful tool in the development of new classes of cognitive enhancers for treating a variety of memory disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan J Hermans
- ACRF Rational Drug Discovery Centre, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Victoria, 3065, Australia
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25
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Wright JW, Kawas LH, Harding JW. The development of small molecule angiotensin IV analogs to treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Prog Neurobiol 2014; 125:26-46. [PMID: 25455861 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2014.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases are neurodegenerative diseases presently without effective drug treatments. AD is characterized by general cognitive impairment, difficulties with memory consolidation and retrieval, and with advanced stages episodes of agitation and anger. AD is increasing in frequency as life expectancy increases. Present FDA approved medications do little to slow disease progression and none address the underlying progressive loss of synaptic connections and neurons. New drug design approaches are needed beyond cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists. Patients with PD experience the symptomatic triad of bradykinesis, tremor-at-rest, and rigidity with the possibility of additional non-motor symptoms including sleep disturbances, depression, dementia, and autonomic nervous system failure. This review summarizes available information regarding the role of the brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in learning and memory and motor functions, with particular emphasis on research results suggesting a link between angiotensin IV (AngIV) interacting with the AT4 receptor subtype. Currently there is controversy over the identity of this AT4 receptor protein. Albiston and colleagues have offered convincing evidence that it is the insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP). Recently members of our laboratory have presented evidence that the brain AngIV/AT4 receptor system coincides with the brain hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met receptor system. In an effort to resolve this issue we have synthesized a number of small molecule AngIV-based compounds that are metabolically stable, penetrate the blood-brain barrier, and facilitate compromised memory and motor systems. These research efforts are described along with details concerning a recently synthesized molecule, Dihexa that shows promise in overcoming memory and motor dysfunctions by augmenting synaptic connectivity via the formation of new functional synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Wright
- Departments of Psychology, Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA; M3 Biotechnology, Inc., 4000 Mason Rd Suite 300, Box 352141, Seattle, WA 98195-2141, USA.
| | - Leen H Kawas
- Departments of Psychology, Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA; M3 Biotechnology, Inc., 4000 Mason Rd Suite 300, Box 352141, Seattle, WA 98195-2141, USA
| | - Joseph W Harding
- Departments of Psychology, Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience and Program in Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA; M3 Biotechnology, Inc., 4000 Mason Rd Suite 300, Box 352141, Seattle, WA 98195-2141, USA
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26
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Angiotensin type 1 receptor inhibition enhances the extinction of fear memory. Biol Psychiatry 2014; 75:864-72. [PMID: 24094510 PMCID: PMC3975818 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2013.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Revised: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current effective treatment options for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are limited, and therefore the need to explore new treatment strategies is critical. Pharmacological inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system is a common approach to treat hypertension, and emerging evidence highlights the importance of this pathway in stress and anxiety. A recent clinical study from our laboratory provides evidence supporting a role for the renin-angiotensin system in the regulation of the stress response in patients diagnosed with PTSD. METHODS With an animal model of PTSD and the selective angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1) antagonist losartan, we investigated the acute and long-term effects of AT1 receptor inhibition on fear memory and baseline anxiety. After losartan treatment, we performed classical Pavlovian fear conditioning pairing auditory cues with footshocks and examined extinction behavior, gene expression changes in the brain, as well as neuroendocrine and cardiovascular responses. RESULTS After cued fear conditioning, both acute and 2-week administration of losartan enhanced the consolidation of extinction memory but had no effect on fear acquisition, baseline anxiety, blood pressure, and neuroendocrine stress measures. Gene expression changes in the brain were also altered in mice treated with losartan for 2 weeks, in particular reduced amygdala AT1 receptor and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis c-Fos messenger RNA levels. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that AT1 receptor antagonism enhances the extinction of fear memory and therefore might be a beneficial therapy for PTSD patients who have impairments in extinction of aversive memories.
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27
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Mountford SJ, Albiston AL, Charman WN, Ng L, Holien JK, Parker MW, Nicolazzo JA, Thompson PE, Chai SY. Synthesis, Structure–Activity Relationships and Brain Uptake of a Novel Series of Benzopyran Inhibitors of Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase. J Med Chem 2014; 57:1368-77. [DOI: 10.1021/jm401540f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Simon J. Mountford
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Anthony L. Albiston
- College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, St. Albans Campus, St. Albans, Victoria 8001, Australia
| | - William N. Charman
- Centre for Drug Candidate Optimisation, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Leelee Ng
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jessica K. Holien
- ACRF Rational Drug Discovery Centre and Biota Structural Biology Laboratory, St. Vincent’s Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia
| | - Michael W. Parker
- ACRF Rational Drug Discovery Centre and Biota Structural Biology Laboratory, St. Vincent’s Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Joseph A. Nicolazzo
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Philip E. Thompson
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Siew Yeen Chai
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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Abstract
Angiotensin II represents a key molecule in hypertension and cerebrovascular pathology. By promoting inflammation and oxidative stress, enhanced Ang II levels accelerate the onset and progression of cell senescence. Sustained activation of RAS promotes end-stage organ injury associated with aging and results in cognitive impairment and dementia. The discovery of the angiotensin-converting enzyme ACE2-angiotensin (1–7)-Mas receptor axis that exerts vasodilator, antiproliferative, and antifibrotic actions opposed to those of the ACE-Ang II-AT1 receptor axis has led to the hypothesis that a decrease in the expression or activity of angiotensin (1–7) renders the systems more susceptible to the pathological actions of Ang II. Given the successful demonstration of beneficial effects of increased expression of ACE2/formation of Ang1–7/Mas receptor binding and modulation of Mas expression in animal models in containing cerebrovascular pathology in hypertensive conditions and aging, one could reasonably hope for analogous effects regarding the prevention of cognitive decline by protecting against hypertension and cerebral microvascular damage. Upregulation of ACE2 and increased balance of Ang 1–7/Ang II, along with positive modulation of Ang II signaling through AT2 receptors and Ang 1–7 signaling through Mas receptors, may be an appropriate strategy for improving cognitive function and treating dementia.
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Tota S, Goel R, Pachauri SD, Rajasekar N, Najmi AK, Hanif K, Nath C. Effect of angiotensin II on spatial memory, cerebral blood flow, cholinergic neurotransmission, and brain derived neurotrophic factor in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013. [PMID: 23192311 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2913-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONAL Studies have shown the involvement of angiotensin II (Ang II) in neurobehavioral aspects, but the exact role of Ang II in memory is still ambiguous. OBJECTIVE This study explored the effect of central Ang II on spatial memory along with cholinergic neurotransmission, brain energy metabolism, cerebral blood flow (CBF), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in rats. METHODS Spatial memory was evaluated by Morris water maze (MWM) after Ang II (ICV) administration in male Sprague-Dawley rats. CBF was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry. Oxidative stress adenosine triphosphate (ATP), BDNF, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and acetylcholine (ACh) were estimated in the cortex and hippocampus at 1, 24, and 48 h after Ang II administration. The effect of AT1 and AT2 receptor blocker (candesartan and PD123,319, respectively), AChE inhibitor (donepezil), and antioxidant melatonin was studied on memory, CBF, and biochemical parameters. RESULTS Ang II caused spatial memory impairment by affecting acquisition, consolidation, and recall in the MWM test along with a significant reduction in CBF. Ang II significantly reduced ACh level and caused oxidative stress in the rat brain 1 h post-injection. No significant change was observed in BDNF, AChE, and ATP level. Candesartan and donepezil prevented Ang II-induced memory impairment, reduction in CBF and ACh level. However, PD123,319 and melatonin failed to prevent Ang II-induced memory impairment but improved CBF partially. CONCLUSION This study suggests that Ang II, via the AT1 receptor, affects spatial memory formation, CBF, and ACh level while AT2 receptor has no significant role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santoshkumar Tota
- Division of Pharmacology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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30
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Paris JJ, Eans SO, Mizrachi E, Reilley KJ, Ganno ML, McLaughlin JP. Central administration of angiotensin IV rapidly enhances novel object recognition among mice. Neuropharmacology 2013; 70:247-53. [PMID: 23416700 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2013.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin IV (Val(1)-Tyr(2)-Ile(3)-His(4)-Pro(5)-Phe(6)) has demonstrated potential cognitive-enhancing effects. The present investigation assessed and characterized: (1) dose-dependency of angiotensin IV's cognitive enhancement in a C57BL/6J mouse model of novel object recognition, (2) the time-course for these effects, (3) the identity of residues in the hexapeptide important to these effects and (4) the necessity of actions at angiotensin IV receptors for procognitive activity. Assessment of C57BL/6J mice in a novel object recognition task demonstrated that prior administration of angiotensin IV (0.1, 1.0, or 10.0, but not 0.01 nmol, i.c.v.) significantly enhanced novel object recognition in a dose-dependent manner. These effects were time dependent, with improved novel object recognition observed when angiotensin IV (0.1 nmol, i.c.v.) was administered 10 or 20, but not 30 min prior to the onset of the novel object recognition testing. An alanine scan of the angiotensin IV peptide revealed that replacement of the Val(1), Ile(3), His(4), or Phe(6) residues with Ala attenuated peptide-induced improvements in novel object recognition, whereas Tyr(2) or Pro(5) replacement did not significantly affect performance. Administration of the angiotensin IV receptor antagonist, divalinal-Ang IV (20 nmol, i.c.v.), reduced (but did not abolish) novel object recognition; however, this antagonist completely blocked the procognitive effects of angiotensin IV (0.1 nmol, i.c.v.) in this task. Rotorod testing demonstrated no locomotor effects with any angiotensin IV or divalinal-Ang IV dose tested. These data demonstrate that angiotensin IV produces a rapid enhancement of associative learning and memory performance in a mouse model that was dependent on the angiotensin IV receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason J Paris
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, 11350 SW Village Parkway, Port Saint Lucie, FL 34987, USA.
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31
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The Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor in Brain Functions: An Update. Int J Hypertens 2012; 2012:351758. [PMID: 23320146 PMCID: PMC3540774 DOI: 10.1155/2012/351758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II (Ang II) is the main active product of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), mediating its action via two major receptors, namely, the Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptor and the type 2 (AT2) receptor. Recent results also implicate several other members of the renin-angiotensin system in various aspects of brain functions. The first aim of this paper is to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the properties and signaling of the AT2 receptor, its expression in the brain, and its well-established effects. Secondly, we will highlight the potential role of the AT2 receptor in cognitive function, neurological disorders and in the regulation of appetite and the possible link with development of metabolic disorders. The potential utility of novel nonpeptide selective AT2 receptor ligands in clarifying potential roles of this receptor in physiology will also be discussed. If confirmed, these new pharmacological tools should help to improve impaired cognitive performance, not only through its action on brain microcirculation and inflammation, but also through more specific effects on neurons. However, the overall physiological relevance of the AT2 receptor in the brain must also consider the Ang IV/AT4 receptor.
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32
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Discovery of inhibitors of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase as cognitive enhancers. Int J Hypertens 2012; 2012:789671. [PMID: 23304452 PMCID: PMC3529497 DOI: 10.1155/2012/789671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The hexapeptide angiotensin IV (Ang IV) is a metabolite of angiotensin II (Ang II) and plays a central role in the brain. It was reported more than two decades ago that intracerebroventricular injection of Ang IV improved memory and learning in the rat. Several hypotheses have been put forward to explain the positive effects of Ang IV and related analogues on cognition. It has been proposed that the insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) is the main target of Ang IV. This paper discusses progress in the discovery of inhibitors of IRAP as potential enhancers of cognitive functions. Very potent inhibitors of the protease have been synthesised, but pharmacokinetic issues (including problems associated with crossing the blood-brain barrier) remain to be solved. The paper also briefly presents an overview of the status in the discovery of inhibitors of ACE and renin, and of AT1R antagonists and AT2R agonists, in order to enable other discovery processes within the RAS system to be compared. The paper focuses on the relationship between binding affinities/inhibition capacity and the structures of the ligands that interact with the target proteins.
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33
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Structural approaches to probing metal interaction with proteins. J Inorg Biochem 2012; 115:138-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2012.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2011] [Revised: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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34
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Gonzalez AD, Wang G, Waters EM, Gonzales KL, Speth RC, Van Kempen TA, Marques-Lopes J, Young CN, Butler SD, Davisson RL, Iadecola C, Pickel VM, Pierce JP, Milner TA. Distribution of angiotensin type 1a receptor-containing cells in the brains of bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic mice. Neuroscience 2012; 226:489-509. [PMID: 22922351 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.08.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/17/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In the central nervous system, angiotensin II (AngII) binds to angiotensin type 1 receptors (AT(1)Rs) to affect autonomic and endocrine functions as well as learning and memory. However, understanding the function of cells containing AT(1)Rs has been restricted by limited availability of specific antisera, difficulties discriminating AT(1)R-immunoreactive cells in many brain regions and, the identification of AT(1)R-containing neurons for physiological and molecular studies. Here, we demonstrate that an Agtr1a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenic mouse line that expresses type A AT(1)Rs (AT1aRs) identified by enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) overcomes these shortcomings. Throughout the brain, AT1aR-EGFP was detected in the nuclei and cytoplasm of cells, most of which were neurons. EGFP often extended into dendritic processes and could be identified either natively or with immunolabeling of GFP. The distribution of AT1aR-EGFP cells in brain closely corresponded to that reported for AngII binding and AT1aR protein and mRNA. In particular, AT1aR-EGFP cells were in autonomic regions (e.g., hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, central nucleus of the amygdala, parabrachial nucleus, nuclei of the solitary tract and rostral ventrolateral medulla) and in regions involved in electrolyte and fluid balance (i.e., subfornical organ) and learning and memory (i.e., cerebral cortex and hippocampus). Additionally, dual label electron microscopic studies in select brain areas demonstrate that cells containing AT1aR-EGFP colocalize with AT(1)R-immunoreactivity. Assessment of AngII-induced free radical production in isolated EGFP cells demonstrated feasibility of studies investigating AT1aR signaling ex vivo. These findings support the utility of Agtr1a BAC transgenic reporter mice for future studies understanding the role of AT(1)R-containing cells in brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Gonzalez
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Weill Cornell Medical College, 407 East 61st Street, New York, NY 10065, USA
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35
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Wright JW, Wilson WL, Wakeling V, Boydstun AS, Jensen A, Kawas L, Harding JW. The Hepatocyte Growth Factor/c-Met Antagonist, Divalinal-Angiotensin IV, Blocks the Acquisition of Methamphetamine Dependent Conditioned Place Preference in Rats. Brain Sci 2012; 2:298-318. [PMID: 24961196 PMCID: PMC4061800 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci2030298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 07/06/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of methamphetamine (MA) is increasing in the U.S. and elsewhere around the world. MA's capacity to cause addiction significantly exceeds other psychostimulant drugs, and its use negatively impacts learning and memory. Recently, attempts have been made to interfere with the presumed mechanism(s) underlying the establishment of drug-induced memory consolidation. The majority of these studies have employed matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors to disrupt MMP-induced extracellular matrix molecule dependent synaptic reconfiguration, or GABA receptor agonists. The present investigation utilized an angiotensin IV (AngIV) analogue, Divalinal-AngIV (divalinal), to disrupt acquisition of MA-induced dependence in rats as measured using the conditioned place preference paradigm. Results indicate that both acute and chronic intracerebroventricular infusion of divalinal prior to each daily subcutaneous injection of MA prevented acquisition. However, divalinal was unable to prevent MA-induced reinstatement after prior acquisition followed by extinction trials. These results indicate that prevention of MA dependence can be accomplished by blockade of the brain AT4 receptor subtype. On the other hand, once MA-induced memory consolidation is in place divalinal appears to be ineffective. Mechanistic studies indicated that divalinal is a potent inhibitor of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met receptor system, and thus it appears that a functional HGF/c-Met system is required for the acquisition of MA-mediated conditioned place preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Wright
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA.
| | - Wendy L Wilson
- Department of Psychology, Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 58601, USA.
| | - Vanessa Wakeling
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA.
| | - Alan S Boydstun
- L-3 Communications, Link Simulation and Training, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433-7955, USA.
| | - Audrey Jensen
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA.
| | - Leen Kawas
- Program in Pharmacology and Toxicology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6510, USA.
| | - Joseph W Harding
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA.
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36
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Wright JW, Harding JW. The brain renin–angiotensin system: a diversity of functions and implications for CNS diseases. Pflugers Arch 2012; 465:133-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-012-1102-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Revised: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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37
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Albiston AL, Diwakarla S, Fernando RN, Mountford SJ, Yeatman HR, Morgan B, Pham V, Holien JK, Parker MW, Thompson PE, Chai SY. Identification and development of specific inhibitors for insulin-regulated aminopeptidase as a new class of cognitive enhancers. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 164:37-47. [PMID: 21470200 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01402.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Two structurally distinct peptides, angiotensin IV and LVV-haemorphin 7, both competitive high-affinity inhibitors of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), were found to enhance aversion-associated and spatial memory in normal rats and to improve performance in a number of memory tasks in rat deficits models. These findings provide compelling support for the development of specific, high-affinity inhibitors of the enzyme as new cognitive enhancing agents. Different classes of IRAP inhibitors have been developed including peptidomimetics and small molecular weight compounds identified through in silico screening with a homology model of the catalytic domain of IRAP. The proof of principal that inhibition of IRAP activity results in facilitation of memory has been obtained by the demonstration that the small-molecule IRAP inhibitors also exhibit memory-enhancing properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony L Albiston
- Howard Florey Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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38
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Wright JW, Harding JW. Brain renin-angiotensin—A new look at an old system. Prog Neurobiol 2011; 95:49-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2011.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Revised: 06/27/2011] [Accepted: 07/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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39
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Andersson H, Demaegdt H, Johnsson A, Vauquelin G, Lindeberg G, Hallberg M, Erdélyi M, Karlén A, Hallberg A. Potent Macrocyclic Inhibitors of Insulin-Regulated Aminopeptidase (IRAP) by Olefin Ring-Closing Metathesis. J Med Chem 2011; 54:3779-92. [DOI: 10.1021/jm200036n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Andersson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Heidi Demaegdt
- Department of Molecular and Biochemical Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anders Johnsson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Georges Vauquelin
- Department of Molecular and Biochemical Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gunnar Lindeberg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mathias Hallberg
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Box 591, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Máté Erdélyi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Gothenburg, SE-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Swedish NMR Centre, University of Gothenburg, Box 465, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Karlén
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
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40
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Lukaszuk A, Demaegdt H, Van den Eynde I, Vanderheyden P, Vauquelin G, Tourwé D. Conformational constraints in angiotensin IV to probe the role of Tyr2, Pro5 and Phe6. J Pept Sci 2011; 17:545-53. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.1365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2010] [Revised: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 01/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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41
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Ascher DB, Cromer BA, Morton CJ, Volitakis I, Cherny RA, Albiston AL, Chai SY, Parker MW. Regulation of insulin-regulated membrane aminopeptidase activity by its C-terminal domain. Biochemistry 2011; 50:2611-22. [PMID: 21348480 DOI: 10.1021/bi101893w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The development of inhibitors of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), a membrane-bound zinc metallopeptidase, is a promising approach for the discovery of drugs for the treatment of memory loss such as that associated with Alzheimer's disease. There is, however, no consensus in the literature about the mechanism by which inhibition occurs. Sequence alignments, secondary structure predictions, and homology models based on the structures of recently determined related metallopeptidases suggest that the extracellular region consists of four domains. Partial proteolysis and mass spectrometry reported here confirm some of the domain boundaries. We have produced purified recombinant fragments of human IRAP on the basis of these data and examined their kinetic and biochemical properties. Full-length extracellular constructs assemble as dimers with different nonoverlapping fragments dimerizing as well, suggesting an extended dimer interface. Only recombinant fragments containing domains 1 and 2 possess aminopeptidase activity and bind the radiolabeled hexapeptide inhibitor, angiotensin IV (Ang IV). However, fragments lacking domains 3 and 4 possess reduced activity, although they still bind a range of inhibitors with the same affinity as longer fragments. In the presence of Ang IV, IRAP is resistant to proteolysis, suggesting significant conformational changes occur upon binding of the inhibitor. We show that IRAP has a second Zn(2+) binding site, not associated with the catalytic region, which is lost upon binding Ang IV. Modulation of activity caused by domains 3 and 4 is consistent with a conformational change regulating access to the active site of IRAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Ascher
- Centre for Structural Neurobiology and Biota Structural Biology Laboratory, St. Vincent's Institute, 9 Princes Street, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia
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42
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Wu HM, Wang C, Wang XL, Wang L, Chang CW, Wang P, Gao GD. Correlations between angiotensinase activity asymmetries in the brain and paw preference in rats. Neuropeptides 2010; 44:253-9. [PMID: 20096929 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2009.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2009] [Revised: 11/22/2009] [Accepted: 12/29/2009] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
The function of angiotensin peptides is dependent upon the action of several aminopeptidases (APs) termed angiotensinases. Soluble (SOL) and membrane (MEM)-bound alanyl-AP (AlaAP) and cystinyl-AP (CysAP) are involved in the metabolism of angiotensins and related to the modulation of behavior and memory. To study the interactions between angiotensinase activity in the hippocampus and behavioral lateralization, Wistar rats were selected on the basis of their performance in the paw preference test (left-handed, ambidextrous and right-handed) and the activities of SOL-AlaAP/CysAP and MEM-AlaAP/CysAP were measured in the both hippocampuses. We observed that: (1) the left hippocampus had higher activities of SOL-AlaAP/CysAP and MEM-AlaAP/CysAP than the right hippocampus; (2) rats showed significant differences in the activities of SOL-AlaAP/CysAP and MEM-AlaAP/CysAP in the hippocampus depending on the behavioral lateralization detecting by paw preference; (3) in three groups of rats, hemispheric dominance - %R/T [%R/T=right hemisphere/(right hemisphere+left hemisphere)x100] activities of MEM-AlaAP, SOL-CysAP and MEM-CysAP was significantly different whereby %RT was lower in left-handed, higher in ambidextrous and intermediate in right-handed rats; (4) individual %R/T activities of SOL-CysAP and MEM-CysAP in the hippocampus were positively correlated with paw preference scores. Finally, we used the passive avoidance behavior test to demonstrate the differences of long-term memory among the three groups. These results suggested that the asymmetric activity of angiotensinase in the rat hippocampus may be associated with both the direction and the intensity of behavioral lateralization as expressed by paw preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- He-ming Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tangdu Hospital, Institute of Functional Brain Disorders of PLA, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
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43
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Albiston AL, Fernando RN, Yeatman HR, Burns P, Ng L, Daswani D, Diwakarla S, Pham V, Chai SY. Gene knockout of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase: Loss of the specific binding site for angiotensin IV and age-related deficit in spatial memory. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2010; 93:19-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2009.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2009] [Revised: 07/27/2009] [Accepted: 07/29/2009] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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44
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De Bundel D, Demaegdt H, Lahoutte T, Caveliers V, Kersemans K, Ceulemans AG, Vauquelin G, Clinckers R, Vanderheyden P, Michotte Y, Smolders I. Involvement of the AT1 receptor subtype in the effects of angiotensin IV and LVV-haemorphin 7 on hippocampal neurotransmitter levels and spatial working memory. J Neurochem 2009; 112:1223-34. [PMID: 20028450 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06547.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of angiotensin IV (Ang IV) or Leu-Val-Val-haemorphin 7 (LVV-H7) improves memory performance in normal rats and reverses memory deficits in rat models for cognitive impairment. These memory effects were believed to be mediated via the putative 'AT4 receptor'. However, this binding site was identified as insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP). Correspondingly, Ang IV and LVV-H7 were characterised as IRAP inhibitors. This study investigates whether and how IRAP may be involved in the central effects of Ang IV and LVV-H7. We determined the effects of i.c.v. administration of Ang IV or LVV-H7 on hippocampal neurotransmitter levels using microdialysis in rats. We observed that Ang IV modulates hippocampal acetylcholine levels, whereas LVV-H7 does not. This discrepancy was reflected in the observation that Ang IV binds with micromolar affinity to the AT1 receptor whereas no binding affinity was observed for LVV-H7. Correspondingly, we demonstrated that the AT1 receptor is involved in the effects of Ang IV on hippocampal neurotransmitter levels and on spatial working memory in a plus maze spontaneous alternation task. However, the AT1 receptor was not involved in the spatial memory facilitating effect of LVV-H7. Finally, we demonstrated that Ang IV did not diffuse to the hippocampus following i.c.v. injection, suggesting an extrahippocampal site of action. We propose that AT1 receptors are implicated in the neurochemical and cognitive effects of Ang IV, whereas LVV-H7 may mediate its effects via IRAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri De Bundel
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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45
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Wright JW, Harding JW. The brain angiotensin IV/AT4receptor system as a new target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Drug Dev Res 2009. [DOI: 10.1002/ddr.20328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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46
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Wright JW, Harding JW. The angiotensin AT4 receptor subtype as a target for the treatment of memory dysfunction associated with Alzheimer's disease. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2009; 9:226-37. [PMID: 19126664 DOI: 10.1177/1470320308099084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Over recent years antihypertensive drugs, particularly angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), have been reported to have beneficial effects upon cognitive impairment. Such findings suggest that pharmacological manipulation of angiotensin ligands may be of clinical importance in slowing or halting the cognitive deterioration seen in vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The mechanism(s) underlying these improvements in cognitive function remains unclear; however, important leads are emerging. The angiotensin AT4 receptor subtype, discovered by our laboratory in 1992, influences several important behaviours and physiologies, including learning and memory, and may play a role in this cognitive improvement. This review initially describes the therapeutic drugs approved by the Federal Drug Administration and new approaches presently being developed to treat Alzheimer's disease-induced cognitive impairment. Next, the biologically-active angiotensin ligands and their respective receptor subtypes are discussed, followed by the roles of angiotensin II, angiotensin IV, ACE inhibitors and ARBs in cognitive function. We conclude with a working hypothesis concerning the importance of the AT4 receptor subtype as a new potential drug target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease-associated memory loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Wright
- Department of Psychology, Veterinary and Comparative Anatomy, Pharmacology, and Physiology, Washington State University, P.O. Box 644820, Pullman, WA 99164-4820, USA.
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47
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Vanderheyden PML. From angiotensin IV binding site to AT4 receptor. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 302:159-66. [PMID: 19071192 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2008] [Revised: 11/03/2008] [Accepted: 11/03/2008] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
One of the fragments of the cardiovascular hormone Angiotensin II incited the interest of several research groups. This 3-8 fragment, denoted as Angiotensin IV (Ang IV) causes a number of distinct biological effects (see Introduction), unlikely to be explained by its weak binding to AT(1) and/or AT(2) receptors. Moreover the discovery of high affinity [(125)I]-Ang IV binding sites and their particular tissue distribution led to the concept of the AT(4) receptor. An important breakthrough was achieved by defining the AT(4) receptor as the membrane-bound insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP). Crucial for the definition as a receptor the binding of the endogenous ligand(s) should be linked to particular cellular and/or biochemical processes. With this respect, cultured cells offer the possibility to study the presence of binding sites in conjunction with ligand induced signaling. This link is discussed for the AT(4) receptor by providing an overview of the cellular effects by AT(4) ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M L Vanderheyden
- Department of Molecular and Biochemical Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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De Bundel D, Smolders I, Vanderheyden P, Michotte Y. Ang II and Ang IV: unraveling the mechanism of action on synaptic plasticity, memory, and epilepsy. CNS Neurosci Ther 2009; 14:315-39. [PMID: 19040556 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2008.00057.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The central angiotensin system plays a crucial role in cardiovascular regulation. More recently, angiotensin peptides have been implicated in stress, anxiety, depression, cognition, and epilepsy. Angiotensin II (Ang II) exerts its actions through AT(1) and AT(2) receptors, while most actions of its metabolite Ang IV were believed to be independent of AT(1) or AT(2) receptor activation. A specific binding site with high affinity for Ang IV was discovered and denominated "AT(4) receptor". The beneficiary effects of AT(4) ligands in animal models for cognitive impairment and epileptic seizures initiated the search for their mechanism of action. This proved to be a challenging task, and after 20 years of research, the nature of the "AT(4) receptor" remains controversial. Insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) was first identified as the high-affinity binding site for AT(4) ligands. Recently, the hepatocyte growth factor receptor c-MET was also proposed as a receptor for AT(4) ligands. The present review focuses on the effects of Ang II and Ang IV on synaptic transmission and plasticity, learning, memory, and epileptic seizure activity. Possible interactions of Ang IV with the classical AT(1) and AT(2) receptor subtypes are evaluated, and other potential mechanisms by which AT(4) ligands may exert their effects are discussed. Identification of these mechanisms may provide a valuable target in the development in novel drugs for the treatment of cognitive disorders and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri De Bundel
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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49
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Protective effect of candesartan in experimental ischemic stroke in the rat mediated by AT2 and AT4 receptors. J Hypertens 2008; 26:2008-15. [PMID: 18806625 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0b013e32830dd5ee] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The contribution of the AT2 and AT4 angiotensin receptors to the protective role of the AT1 receptor blocker candesartan in acute ischemic stroke was investigated. METHODS Embolic stroke was induced by injection of calibrated microspheres (50 microm) in the right internal carotid in Sprague-Dawley rats. RESULTS Inhibition of production of endogenous angiotensins by pretreatment for 24 h with lisinopril significantly increased mortality and infarct volume, whereas candesartan for 24 h reduced blood pressure to the same extent but had no deleterious effect. A more sustained pretreatment with candesartan for 5 days significantly decreased mortality, neurological deficit and infarct size. The AT2 receptor antagonist PD123319 and the AT4 receptor antagonist divalinal abolished the protective effect of 5 days' AT1 blockade. Combined blockade of AT2 and AT4 in candesartan pretreated rats resulted in an increased mortality, neurological deficit and infarct volume of similar magnitude to lisinopril pretreatment. Coadministration of lisinopril 24 h before surgery completely blunted the protective effect of candesartan pretreatment. Administration of exogenous angiotensin IV (1 nmol) reversed the deleterious effect of lisinopril pretreatment. CONCLUSION Protection against acute cerebral ischemia induced by AT1 blockade for 5 days is blood pressure independent and mediated by both AT2 and AT4 angiotensin receptors.
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Chai SY, Yeatman HR, Parker MW, Ascher DB, Thompson PE, Mulvey HT, Albiston AL. Development of cognitive enhancers based on inhibition of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase. BMC Neurosci 2008; 9 Suppl 2:S14. [PMID: 19090987 PMCID: PMC2604898 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-9-s2-s14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptides angiotensin IV and LVV-hemorphin 7 were found to enhance memory in a number of memory tasks and reverse the performance deficits in animals with experimentally induced memory loss. These peptides bound specifically to the enzyme insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP), which is proposed to be the site in the brain that mediates the memory effects of these peptides. However, the mechanism of action is still unknown but may involve inhibition of the aminopeptidase activity of IRAP, since both angiotensin IV and LVV-hemorphin 7 are competitive inhibitors of the enzyme. IRAP also has another functional domain that is thought to regulate the trafficking of the insulin-responsive glucose transporter GLUT4, thereby influencing glucose uptake into cells. Although the exact mechanism by which the peptides enhance memory is yet to be elucidated, IRAP still represents a promising target for the development of a new class of cognitive enhancing agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Yeen Chai
- Howard Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Centre for Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Holly R Yeatman
- Howard Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Centre for Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Michael W Parker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia
| | - David B Ascher
- St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia
| | - Philip E Thompson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Hayley T Mulvey
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Anthony L Albiston
- Howard Florey Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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