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Botticelli L, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Del Bello F, Giorgioni G, Piergentili A, Quaglia W, Bonifazi A, Cifani C, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV. The neuromedin U system: Pharmacological implications for the treatment of obesity and binge eating behavior. Pharmacol Res 2023; 195:106875. [PMID: 37517560 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) is a bioactive peptide produced in the gut and in the brain, with a role in multiple physiological processes. NMU acts by binding and activating two G protein coupled receptors (GPCR), the NMU receptor 1 (NMU-R1), which is predominantly expressed in the periphery, and the NMU receptor 2 (NMU-R2), mainly expressed in the central nervous system (CNS). In the brain, NMU and NMU-R2 are consistently present in the hypothalamus, commonly recognized as the main "feeding center". Considering its distribution pattern, NMU revealed to be an important neuropeptide involved in the regulation of food intake, with a powerful anorexigenic ability. This has been observed through direct administration of NMU and by studies using genetically modified animals, which revealed an obesity phenotype when the NMU gene is deleted. Thus, the development of NMU analogs or NMU-R2 agonists might represent a promising pharmacological strategy to treat obese individuals. Furthermore, NMU has been demonstrated to influence the non-homeostatic aspect of food intake, playing a potential role in binge eating behavior. This review aims to discuss and summarize the current literature linking the NMU system with obesity and binge eating behavior, focusing on the influence of NMU on food intake and the neuronal mechanisms underlying its anti-obesity properties. Pharmacological strategies to improve the pharmacokinetic profile of NMU will also be reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Botticelli
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, 9, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Del Bello
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Gianfabio Giorgioni
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Alessandro Piergentili
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Wilma Quaglia
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, Camerino 62032, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bonifazi
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 333 Cassell Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224, United States
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, via Madonna delle Carceri, 9, Camerino 62032, Italy.
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Medrano M, Allaoui W, Van Bulck M, Thys S, Makrini-Maleville L, Seuntjens E, De Vos WH, Valjent E, Gaszner B, Van Eeckhaut A, Smolders I, De Bundel D. Neuroanatomical characterization of the Nmu-Cre knock-in mice reveals an interconnected network of unique neuropeptidergic cells. Open Biol 2023; 13:220353. [PMID: 37311538 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.220353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) is an evolutionary conserved neuropeptide that has been implicated in multiple processes, such as circadian regulation, energy homeostasis, reward processing and stress coping. Although the central expression of NMU has been addressed previously, the lack of specific and sensitive tools has prevented a comprehensive characterization of NMU-expressing neurons in the brain. We have generated a knock-in mouse model constitutively expressing Cre recombinase under the Nmu promoter. We have validated the model using a multi-level approach based on quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reactions, in situ hybridization, a reporter mouse line and an adenoviral vector driving Cre-dependent expression of a fluorescent protein. Using the Nmu-Cre mouse, we performed a complete characterization of NMU expression in adult mouse brain, unveiling a potential midline NMU modulatory circuit with the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMH) as a key node. Moreover, immunohistochemical analysis suggested that NMU neurons in the VMH mainly constitute a unique population of hypothalamic cells. Taken together, our results suggest that Cre expression in the Nmu-Cre mouse model largely reflects NMU expression in the adult mouse brain, without altering endogenous NMU expression. Thus, the Nmu-Cre mouse model is a powerful and sensitive tool to explore the role of NMU neurons in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Medrano
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wissal Allaoui
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathias Van Bulck
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Oncology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sofie Thys
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology and Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Eve Seuntjens
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Winnok H De Vos
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology and Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- μNEURO Research Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy (ACAM), 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Emmanuel Valjent
- IGF, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Inserm, 34094 Montpellier, France
| | - Bálazs Gaszner
- Medical School, Research Group for Mood Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ann Van Eeckhaut
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Smolders
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dimitri De Bundel
- Center for Neurosciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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Yokogi K, Goto Y, Otsuka M, Ojima F, Kobayashi T, Tsuchiba Y, Takeuchi Y, Namba M, Kohno M, Tetsuka M, Takeuchi S, Matsuyama M, Aizawa S. Neuromedin U-deficient rats do not lose body weight or food intake. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17472. [PMID: 36302800 PMCID: PMC9614009 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21764-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies in genetically modified mice establish that essential roles of endogenous neuromedin U (NMU) are anorexigenic function and metabolic regulation, indicating that NMU is expected to be a potential target for anti-obesity agents. However, in central administration experiments in rats, inconsistent results have been obtained, and the essential role of NMU energy metabolism in rats remain unclear. This study aims to elucidate the role of endogenous NMU in rats. We generated NMU knockout (KO) rats that unexpectedly showed no difference in body weight, adiposity, circulating metabolic markers, body temperature, locomotor activity, and food consumption in both normal and high fat chow feeding. Furthermore, unlike reported in mice, expressions of Nmu and NMU receptor type 2 (Nmur2) mRNA were hardly detectable in the rat hypothalamic nuclei regulating feeding and energy metabolism, including the arcuate nucleus and paraventricular nucleus, while Nmu was expressed in pars tuberalis and Nmur2 was expressed in the ependymal cell layer of the third ventricle. These results indicate that the species-specific expression pattern of Nmu and Nmur2 may allow NMU to have distinct functions across species, and that endogenous NMU does not function as an anorexigenic hormone in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoka Yokogi
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Yuki Goto
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Mai Otsuka
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Fumiya Ojima
- grid.415086.e0000 0001 1014 2000Department of Natural Sciences and Biology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0192 Japan
| | - Tomoe Kobayashi
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Yukina Tsuchiba
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Yu Takeuchi
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Masumi Namba
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Mayumi Kohno
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Minami Tetsuka
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Sakae Takeuchi
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
| | - Makoto Matsuyama
- grid.415729.c0000 0004 0377 284XDivision of Molecular Genetics, Shigei Medical Research Institute, 2117 Yamada, Minami-ku, Okayama 701-0202 Japan
| | - Sayaka Aizawa
- grid.261356.50000 0001 1302 4472Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8530 Japan
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De Prins A, Allaoui W, Medrano M, Van Eeckhaut A, Ballet S, Smolders I, De Bundel D. Effects of neuromedin U-8 on stress responsiveness and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activity in male C57BL/6J mice. Horm Behav 2020; 121:104666. [PMID: 31899262 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.104666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) is a highly conserved neuropeptide that has been implicated in the stress response. To better understand how it influences various aspects of the stress response, we studied the effects of intracerebroventricular NMU-8 administration on stress-related behavior and activity of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in male C57BL/6J mice. We investigated these NMU-8 effects when mice remained in their home cage and when they were challenged by exposure to forced swim stress. NMU-8 administration resulted in increased grooming behavior in mice that remained in their home cage and in a significant increase in c-Fos immunoreactivity in the paraventricular hypothalamus (PVH) and arcuate nucleus (ARC). Surprisingly, NMU-8 administration significantly decreased plasma corticosterone concentrations. Furthermore, NMU-8 administration increased immobility in the forced swim test in both naïve mice and mice that were previously exposed to swim stress. The effect of NMU-8 on c-Fos immunoreactivity in the PVH was dependent on previous exposure to swim stress given that we observed no significant changes in mice exposed for the first time to swim stress. In contrast, in the ARC we observed a significant increase in c-Fos immunoreactivity regardless of previous stress exposure. Interestingly, NMU-8 administration also significantly decreased plasma corticosterone concentrations in mice that were exposed to single forced swim stress, while this effect was no longer observed when mice were exposed to forced swim stress for a second time. Taken together, our data indicate that NMU-8 regulates stress responsiveness and suggests that its effects depend on previous stress exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- An De Prins
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wissal Allaoui
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mireia Medrano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Eeckhaut
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Smolders
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dimitri De Bundel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium.
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5
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Chang X, Pellegrino R, Garifallou J, March M, Snyder J, Mentch F, Li J, Hou C, Liu Y, Sleiman PMA, Hakonarson H. Common variants at 5q33.1 predispose to migraine in African-American children. J Med Genet 2018; 55:831-836. [PMID: 30266756 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2018-105359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified multiple susceptibility loci for migraine in European adults. However, no large-scale genetic studies have been performed in children or African Americans with migraine. METHODS We conducted a GWAS of 380 African-American children and 2129 ancestry-matched controls to identify variants associated with migraine. We then attempted to replicate our primary analysis in an independent cohort of 233 African-American patients and 4038 non-migraine control subjects. RESULTS The results of this study indicate that common variants at 5q33.1 associated with migraine risk in African-American children (rs72793414, p=1.94×10-9). The association was validated in an independent study (p=3.87×10-3) for an overall meta-analysis p value of 3.81×10-10. eQTL (Expression quantitative trait loci) analysis of the Genotype-Tissue Expression data also shows the genotypes of rs72793414 were strongly correlated with the mRNA expression levels of NMUR2 at 5q33.1. NMUR2 encodes a G protein-coupled receptor of neuromedin-U (NMU). NMU, a highly conserved neuropeptide, participates in diverse physiological processes of the central nervous system. CONCLUSIONS This study provides new insights into the genetic basis of childhood migraine and allow for precision therapeutic development strategies targeting migraine patients of African-American ancestry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Chang
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Renata Pellegrino
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James Garifallou
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael March
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James Snyder
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Frank Mentch
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jin Li
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cuiping Hou
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yichuan Liu
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patrick M A Sleiman
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hakon Hakonarson
- The Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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6
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Nagai H, Kaisho T, Yokoyama K, Asakawa T, Fujita H, Matsumiya K, Noguchi J, Tsuchimori K, Nishizawa N, Kanematsu-Yamaki Y, Dote K, Inooka H, Sakamoto JI, Ohtaki T, Asami T, Takekawa S. Differential effects of selective agonists of neuromedin U1 and U2 receptors in obese and diabetic mice. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 175:359-373. [PMID: 29057457 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Neuromedin U (NmU) may be a novel target for obesity treatment owing to its anorectic and energy expenditure enhancing effects. Although two receptors, NMU1 and NMU2, are both responsible for the NmU-mediated anti-obesity effects, the receptor agonist with the most appropriate profiles for treating obesity and diabetes in terms of efficacy and safety is as yet unknown. Thus, we developed and evaluated novel NMU1/2 receptor-selective agonists. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Efficacy and safety were assessed in mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO) and those with leptin-deficient diabetes (ob/ob) through repeated peripheral administration of selective agonists to NMU1 (NMU-6102) and NMU2 (NMU-2084), along with non-selective NMU1/2 agonists (NMU-0002 and NMU-6014). We also performed immunohistochemistry for c-Fos protein expression in the brain to probe their mechanisms of action. KEY RESULTS Although both non-selective NMU1/2 agonists and the NMU2-selective agonist had high efficacy compared with the NMU1-selective agonist, only the NMU2-selective agonist led to relatively low adverse effects, such as diarrhoea, in DIO mice. However, the non-selective NMU1/2 agonist and the NMU1-selective agonist, but not the NMU2-selective agonist, were effective in diabetic ob/ob mice. Mechanistically, NMU2-selective agonists preferentially activate pro-opiomelanocortin neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus but not in the paraventricular nucleus. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results suggest that an NMU2 receptor-selective agonist may be a well-balanced drug for the treatment of obesity and that an NMU1 receptor-selective agonist may also be beneficial for treating obesity and diabetes once its side effects are minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Nagai
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Tomoko Kaisho
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Kotaro Yokoyama
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Tomoko Asakawa
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Hisashi Fujita
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Kouta Matsumiya
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Jiro Noguchi
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Kazue Tsuchimori
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Naoki Nishizawa
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | | | - Katsuko Dote
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Inooka
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | | | - Tetsuya Ohtaki
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Taiji Asami
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Shiro Takekawa
- Research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Fujisawa, Japan
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7
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Prenatal maternal stress and wheeze in children: novel insights into epigenetic regulation. Sci Rep 2016; 6:28616. [PMID: 27349968 PMCID: PMC4923849 DOI: 10.1038/srep28616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychological stress during pregnancy increases the risk of childhood wheeze and asthma. However, the transmitting mechanisms remain largely unknown. Since epigenetic alterations have emerged as a link between perturbations in the prenatal environment and an increased disease risk we used whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) to analyze changes in DNA methylation in mothers and their children related to prenatal psychosocial stress and assessed its role in the development of wheeze in the child. We evaluated genomic regions altered in their methylation level due to maternal stress based of WGBS data of 10 mother-child-pairs. These data were complemented by longitudinal targeted methylation and transcriptional analyses in children from our prospective mother-child cohort LINA for whom maternal stress and wheezing information was available (n = 443). High maternal stress was associated with an increased risk for persistent wheezing in the child until the age of 5. Both mothers and children showed genome-wide alterations in DNA-methylation specifically in enhancer elements. Deregulated neuroendocrine and neurotransmitter receptor interactions were observed in stressed mothers and their children. In children but not in mothers, calcium- and Wnt-signaling required for lung maturation in the prenatal period were epigenetically deregulated and could be linked with wheezing later in children’s life.
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8
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Martinez VG, O'Driscoll L. Neuromedin U: a multifunctional neuropeptide with pleiotropic roles. Clin Chem 2015; 61:471-82. [PMID: 25605682 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2014.231753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuromedin U (NmU) belongs to the neuromedin family, comprising a series of neuropeptides involved in the gut-brain axis and including neuromedins B and C (bombesin-like), K (neurokinin B), L (neurokinin A or neurotensin), N, S, and U. CONTENT Although initially isolated from porcine spinal cord on the basis of their ability to induce uterine smooth muscle contraction, these peptides have now been found to be expressed in several different tissues and have been ascribed numerous functions, from appetite regulation and energy balance control to muscle contraction and tumor progression. NmU has been detected in several species to date, particularly in mammals (pig, rat, rabbit, dog, guinea pig, human), but also in amphibian, avian, and fish species. The NmU sequence is highly conserved across different species, indicating that this peptide is ancient and plays an important biological role. Here, we summarize the main structural and functional characteristics of NmU and describe its many roles, highlighting the jack-of-all-trades nature of this neuropeptide. SUMMARY NmU involvement in key processes has outlined the possibility that this neuropeptide could be a novel target for the treatment of obesity and cancer, among other disorders. Although the potential for NmU as a therapeutic target is obvious, the multiple functions of this molecule should be taken into account when designing an approach to targeting NmU and/or its receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa G Martinez
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lorraine O'Driscoll
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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9
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Kim GW, Lin JE, Valentino MA, Colon-Gonzalez F, Waldman SA. Regulation of appetite to treat obesity. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2012; 4:243-59. [PMID: 21666781 DOI: 10.1586/ecp.11.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Obesity has escalated into a pandemic over the past few decades. In turn, research efforts have sought to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of energy balance. A host of endogenous mediators regulate appetite and metabolism, and thereby control both short- and long-term energy balance. These mediators, which include gut, pancreatic and adipose neuropeptides, have been targeted in the development of anti-obesity pharmacotherapy, with the goal of amplifying anorexigenic and lipolytic signaling or blocking orexigenic and lipogenic signaling. This article presents the efficacy and safety of these anti-obesity drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert W Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, 132 S. 10th Street, 1170 Main, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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10
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Malendowicz LK, Ziolkowska A, Rucinski M. Neuromedins U and S involvement in the regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2012; 3:156. [PMID: 23227022 PMCID: PMC3514618 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We reviewed neuromedin U (NMU) and neuromedin S (NMS) involvement in the regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function. NMU and NMS are structurally related and highly conserved neuropeptides. They exert biological effects via two GPCR receptors designated as NMUR1 and NMUR2 which show differential expression. NMUR1 is expressed predominantly at the periphery, while NMUR2 in the central nervous system. Elements of the NMU/NMS and their receptors network are also expressed in the HPA axis and progress in molecular biology techniques provided new information on their actions within this system. Several lines of evidence suggest that within the HPA axis NMU and NMS act at both hypothalamic and adrenal levels. Moreover, new data suggest that NMU and NMS are involved in central and peripheral control of the stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwik K. Malendowicz
- *Correspondence: Ludwik K. Malendowicz, Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Swięcicki St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland. e-mail:
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11
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Nixon JP, Kotz CM, Novak CM, Billington CJ, Teske JA. Neuropeptides controlling energy balance: orexins and neuromedins. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2012:77-109. [PMID: 22249811 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-24716-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In this chapter, we review the feeding and energy expenditure effects of orexin (also known as hypocretin) and neuromedin. Orexins are multifunctional neuropeptides that affect energy balance by participating in regulation of appetite, arousal, and spontaneous physical activity. Central orexin signaling for all functions originates in the lateral hypothalamus-perifornical area and is likely functionally differentiated based on site of action and on interacting neural influences. The effect of orexin on feeding is likely related to arousal in some ways but is nonetheless a separate neural process that depends on interactions with other feeding-related neuropeptides. In a pattern distinct from other neuropeptides, orexin stimulates both feeding and energy expenditure. Orexin increases in energy expenditure are mainly by increasing spontaneous physical activity, and this energy expenditure effect is more potent than the effect on feeding. Global orexin manipulations, such as in transgenic models, produce energy balance changes consistent with a dominant energy expenditure effect of orexin. Neuromedins are gut-brain peptides that reduce appetite. There are gut sources of neuromedin, but likely the key appetite-related neuromedin-producing neurons are in the hypothalamus and parallel other key anorectic neuropeptide expression in the arcuate to paraventricular hypothalamic projection. As with other hypothalamic feeding-related peptides, hindbrain sites are likely also important sources and targets of neuromedin anorectic action. Neuromedin increases physical activity in addition to reducing appetite, thus producing a consistent negative energy balance effect. Together with the other various neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and neurohormones, neuromedin and orexin act in the appetite network to produce changes in food intake and energy expenditure, which ultimately influences the regulation of body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Nixon
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research Service (151), Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Valentino MA, Colon-Gonzalez F, Lin JE, Waldman SA. Current trends in targeting the hormonal regulation of appetite and energy balance to treat obesity. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2010; 5:765-783. [PMID: 21297878 PMCID: PMC3032596 DOI: 10.1586/eem.10.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
With the eruption of the obesity pandemic over the past few decades, much research has been devoted to understanding the molecular mechanisms by which the human body regulates energy balance. These studies have revealed several mediators, including gut/pancreatic/adipose hormones and neuropeptides that control both short- and long-term energy balance by regulating appetite and/or metabolism. These endogenous mediators of energy balance have been the focus of many anti-obesity drug-development programs aimed at either amplifying endogenous anorexigenic/lipolytic signaling or blocking endogenous orexigenic/lipogenic signaling. Here, we discuss the efficacy and safety of targeting these pathways for the pharmacologic treatment of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Valentino
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, 132 South 10th Street, 1170 Main, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Francheska Colon-Gonzalez
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, 132 South 10th Street, 1170 Main, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Jieru E Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, 132 South 10th Street, 1170 Main, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Scott A Waldman
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Thomas Jefferson University, 132 South 10th Street, 1170 Main, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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Budhiraja S, Chugh A. Neuromedin U: physiology, pharmacology and therapeutic potential. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2009; 23:149-57. [PMID: 19645813 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2009.00667.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NmU), a multifunctional neuropeptide, belongs to a family of neuropeptides, the neuromedins. It is ubiquitously distributed with highest levels found in the gastrointestinal tract and pituitary. The conservation of structural elements of NmU across species, the widespread distribution of NmU and its receptors throughout the body point to a fundamental role in key physiological processes. Two G protein coupled receptors for NmU have been cloned NmU R1 and NmU R2. NmU R1 is expressed pre-dominantly in the periphery especially the gastrointestinal tract whereas NmU R2 is expressed pre-dominantly in the central nervous system. Current evidence suggests a role of NmU in pain, in regulation of feeding and energy homeostasis, stress, cancer, immune mediated inflammatory diseases like asthma, inflammatory diseases, maintaining the biological clock, in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract, and in the control of blood flow and blood pressure. With the development of drugs selectively acting on receptors and knockout animal models, exact pathophysiological roles of NmU will become clearer.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Budhiraja
- Department of Pharmacology, Pt. B. D. Sharma, PGIMS, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India.
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Egecioglu E, Ploj K, Xu X, Bjursell M, Salomé N, Andersson N, Ohlsson C, Taube M, Hansson C, Bohlooly-Y M, Morgan DGA, Dickson SL. Central NMU signaling in body weight and energy balance regulation: evidence from NMUR2 deletion and chronic central NMU treatment in mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2009; 297:E708-16. [PMID: 19584200 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.91022.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the role of the central neuromedin U (NMU) signaling system in body weight and energy balance regulation, we examined the effects of long-term intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of NMU in C57Bl/6 mice and in mice lacking the gene encoding NMU receptor 2. In diet-induced obese male and female C57BL/6 mice, icv infusion of NMU (8 microg x day(-1) x mouse(-1)) for 7 days decreased body weight and total energy intake compared with vehicle treatment. However, these parameters were unaffected by NMU treatment in lean male and female C57BL/6 mice fed a standard diet. In addition, female (but not male) NMUR2-null mice had increased body weight and body fat mass when fed a high-fat diet but lacked a clear body weight phenotype when fed a standard diet compared with wild-type littermates. Furthermore, female (but not male) NMUR2-null mice fed a high-fat diet were protected from central NMU-induced body weight loss compared with littermate wild-type mice. Thus, we provide the first evidence that long-term central NMU treatment reduces body weight, food intake, and adiposity and that central NMUR2 signaling is required for these effects in female but not male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Egecioglu
- Dept. of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the Univ. of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen M Novak
- Mayo Clinic, Endocrine Research Unit, 200 1st Street Southwest, Saint Marys Hospital, Joseph 5-194, Rochester, Minnesota 55901, USA.
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Peier A, Kosinski J, Cox-York K, Qian Y, Desai K, Feng Y, Trivedi P, Hastings N, Marsh DJ. The antiobesity effects of centrally administered neuromedin U and neuromedin S are mediated predominantly by the neuromedin U receptor 2 (NMUR2). Endocrinology 2009; 150:3101-9. [PMID: 19324999 PMCID: PMC2703546 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-1772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) and neuromedin S (NMS) are structurally related neuropeptides that have been reported to modulate energy homeostasis. Pharmacological data have shown that NMU and NMS inhibit food intake when administered centrally and that NMU increases energy expenditure. Additionally, NMU-deficient mice develop obesity, whereas transgenic mice overexpressing NMU are lean and hypophagic. Two high-affinity NMU/NMS receptors, NMUR1 and NMUR2, have been identified. NMUR1 is predominantly expressed in the periphery, whereas NMUR2 is predominantly expressed in the brain, suggesting that the effects of centrally administered NMU and NMS are mediated by NMUR2. To evaluate the role of NMUR2 in the regulation of energy homeostasis, we characterized NMUR2-deficient (Nmur2(-/-)) mice. Nmur2(-/-) mice exhibited a modest resistance to diet-induced obesity that was at least in part due to reduced food intake. Acute central administration of NMU and NMS reduced food intake in wild-type but not in Nmur2(-/-) mice. The effects on activity and core temperature induced by centrally administered NMU were also absent in Nmur2(-/-) mice. Moreover, chronic central administration of NMU and NMS evoked significant reductions in body weight and sustained reductions in food intake in mice. In contrast, Nmur2(-/-) mice were largely resistant to these effects. Collectively, these data demonstrate that the anorectic and weight-reducing actions of centrally administered NMU and NMS are mediated predominantly by NMUR2, suggesting that NMUR2-selective agonists may be useful for the treatment of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Peier
- Merck Research Laboratories, Department of Metabolic Disorders, 126 East Lincoln Avenue, RY80L-126, Rahway, New Jersey 07065, USA
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Mitchell JD, Maguire JJ, Davenport AP. Emerging pharmacology and physiology of neuromedin U and the structurally related peptide neuromedin S. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 158:87-103. [PMID: 19519756 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00252.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) has been paired with the G-protein-coupled receptors (GPRs) NMU(1) (formerly designated as the orphan GPR66 or FM-3) and NMU(2) (FM-4 or hTGR-1). Recently, a structurally related peptide, neuromedin S (NMS), which shares an amidated C-terminal heptapeptide motif, has been identified in both rat and human, and has been proposed as a second ligand for these receptors. Messenger RNA encoding NMU receptor subtypes shows differential expression: NMU(1) is predominantly expressed in peripheral tissues, particularly the gastrointestinal tract, whereas NMU(2) is abundant within the brain and spinal cord. NMU peptide parallels receptor distribution with highest expression in the gastrointestinal tract and specific structures within the brain, reflecting its major role in the regulation of energy balance. The NMU knockout mouse has an obese phenotype and, in agreement, the Arg165Trp amino acid variant of NMU-25 in humans, which is functionally inactive, co-segregated with childhood-onset obesity. Emerging physiological roles for NMU include vasoconstriction mediated predominantly via NMU(1) with nociception and bone remodelling via NMU(2). The NMU system has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of septic shock and cancers including bladder carcinoma and acute myeloid leukaemia. Intriguingly, NMS is more potent at NMU(2) receptors in vivo where it has similar central actions in suppression of feeding and regulation of circadian rhythms to NMU. Taken together with its vascular actions, NMU may be a functional link between energy balance and the cardiovascular system and may provide a future target for therapies directed against the disorders that comprise metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Mitchell
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, University of Cambridge, Level 6 Centre for Clinical Investigation, Cambridge, UK
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Malendowicz LK, Guidolin D, Trejter M, Rucinski M, Porzionato A, de Caro R, Nowak M. Neuromedin-U inhibits unilateral adrenalectomy-induced compensatory adrenal growth in the rat. Peptides 2009; 30:935-9. [PMID: 19428772 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2009.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2008] [Revised: 01/20/2009] [Accepted: 01/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Neuromedin-U (NMU) is a brain-gut peptide, which has been previously found to stimulate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in the rat and to control the growth of the rat adrenal cortex. The present study aimed to investigate the possible involvement of NMU in the regulation of unilateral adrenalectomy-induced compensatory adrenal growth, a phenomenon known to be neurally mediated. The right adrenal gland of mature female rats was removed, the contralateral gland was then analyzed at 24 and 72h following surgery. Groups of rats were given 3 subcutaneous injections (24, 16 and 8h before decapitation) of NMU8 (1.5 or 3.0 nmol/100g/per injection). Three hours before sacrifice all rats received an intraperitoneal injection of 0.1mg/100g body weight of vincristin. By means of RT-PCR the presence of NMUR1 mRNA was detected in adrenal cortex of both intact and hemiadrenalectomized rats. As expected, unilateral adrenalectomy-induced an increase in adrenal weight, associated with increased plasma ACTH, aldosterone and corticosterone levels. The administration of NMU to hemiadrenalectomized rats did not significantly affect these parameters. NMU administration, however, notably inhibited the unilateral adrenalectomy-induced adrenocortical cell proliferation in both zona glomerulosa and zona fasciculata, as assessed by the metaphase index and the number of parenchymal cell nuclei per unit area of the tissue. When compared to hemiadrenalectomized animals receiving saline, a significant decrease of blood corticosterone levels was observed after 24h in rats treated with the highest dose of NMU. Since these effects were independent on changes in blood ACTH, they could reflect an interaction of NMU with the neural system innervating the adrenal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwik K Malendowicz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
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Liu JJ, Payza K, Huang J, Liu R, Chen T, Coupal M, Laird JMA, Cao CQ, Butterworth J, Lapointe S, Bayrakdarian M, Trivedi S, Bostwick JR. Discovery and Pharmacological Characterization of a Small-Molecule Antagonist at Neuromedin U Receptor NMUR2. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2009; 330:268-75. [DOI: 10.1124/jpet.109.152967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Jászberényi M, Bagosi Z, Thurzó B, Földesi I, Telegdy G. Endocrine and behavioral effects of neuromedin S. Horm Behav 2007; 52:631-9. [PMID: 17900576 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2007] [Revised: 07/13/2007] [Accepted: 07/30/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present experiments focused on the effects of neuromedin S on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) activation and behavior. The peptide (0.25-1 nmol) was administered intracerebroventricularly to rats, the behavior of which was monitored by means of telemetry, open field observations and an elevated plus-maze (EPM) test. Autonomic functions such as the temperature and the heart rate were recorded by telemetry. The action on the HPA axis was assessed via measurements of the plasma corticosterone and ACTH levels. To reveal the transmission of the endocrine responses, animals were pretreated with corticotrophin releasing hormone receptor (CRHR) antagonists (1 nmol). In the open field test, the animals were pretreated with either a CRHR(1) antagonist (antalarmin) or haloperidol (10 microg/kg), while in the EPM test they were pretreated with antalarmin or diazepam (1 mg/kg). The dopamine release from striatal and amygdala slices after peptide treatment was measured with a superfusion apparatus. Neuromedin S exerted dose-dependent effects on the HPA system, which were inhibited by antalarmin. It also activated grooming and decreased the entries to and time spent in the open arms during the EPM test. The grooming response was abolished by haloperidol and antalarmin pretreatment, while diazepam and antalarmin showed a tendency to attenuate the response evoked in the EPM test. In the superfusion studies, neuromedin S enhanced the dopamine release from the amygdala slices. These results demonstrate that neuromedin S stimulates the HPA axis through the CRHR(1) pathway and evokes stereotyped behavior and anxiety through mesolimbic dopamine and corticotrophin releasing hormone release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miklós Jászberényi
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Szeged, H-6701, Szeged, Semmelweis u. 1., PO Box 427, Hungary
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Novak CM, Zhang M, Levine JA. Sensitivity of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus to the locomotor-activating effects of neuromedin U in obesity. Brain Res 2007; 1169:57-68. [PMID: 17706946 PMCID: PMC2735201 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.06.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2007] [Revised: 06/15/2007] [Accepted: 06/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is associated with a decrease in energy expenditure relative to energy intake. The decrease in physical activity associated with obesity in several species, including humans, contributes to decreased energy expenditure. Several hormones and neuropeptides that affect appetite also modulate physical activity, including neuromedin U (NMU), a peptide found in the gut and brain. We have demonstrated that NMU microinjected into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in rats increases the energy expenditure associated with physical activity, called non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT). Here we examined whether obesity in rats is related to decreased sensitivity of the PVN to the locomotor-activating effect of NMU. Diet-induced obese (DIO) rats and lean, diet-resistant (DR) rats were given PVN microinjections of increasing doses of NMU both before and after 1 month on a high-fat diet. We found that NMU increases physical activity, energy expenditure, and NEAT in a dose-dependent manner in both DR and DIO rats, both before and after 1 month on the high-fat diet. Before high-fat feeding, the obesity-prone and lean rats showed similar levels of physical activity after intra-PVN microinjections of NMU. After 1 month of the high-fat diet, however, the obesity-resistant rats showed significantly more NMU-induced physical activity compared to the obese DIO rats. Taken together with previous studies, these results suggest that obesity may represent a state associated with decreased central sensitivity to neuropeptides such as NMU that increase physical activity and therefore energy expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen M Novak
- Mayo Clinic, Endocrine Research Unit, St Marys Hospital, Joseph 5-194, 200 1st St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Zeng H, Gragerov A, Hohmann JG, Pavlova MN, Schimpf BA, Xu H, Wu LJ, Toyoda H, Zhao MG, Rohde AD, Gragerova G, Onrust R, Bergmann JE, Zhuo M, Gaitanaris GA. Neuromedin U receptor 2-deficient mice display differential responses in sensory perception, stress, and feeding. Mol Cell Biol 2006; 26:9352-63. [PMID: 17030627 PMCID: PMC1698522 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.01148-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromedin U (NMU) is a highly conserved neuropeptide with a variety of physiological functions mediated by two receptors, peripheral NMUR1 and central nervous system NMUR2. Here we report the generation and phenotypic characterization of mice deficient in the central nervous system receptor NMUR2. We show that behavioral effects, such as suppression of food intake, enhanced pain response, and excessive grooming induced by intracerebroventricular NMU administration were abolished in the NMUR2 knockout (KO) mice, establishing a causal role for NMUR2 in mediating NMU's central effects on these behaviors. In contrast to the NMU peptide-deficient mice, NMUR2 KO mice appeared normal with regard to stress, anxiety, body weight regulation, and food consumption. However, the NMUR2 KO mice showed reduced pain sensitivity in both the hot plate and formalin tests. Furthermore, facilitated excitatory synaptic transmission in spinal dorsal horn neurons, a mechanism by which NMU stimulates pain, did not occur in NMUR2 KO mice. These results provide significant insights into a functional dissection of the differential contribution of peripherally or centrally acting NMU system. They suggest that NMUR2 plays a more significant role in central pain processing than other brain functions including stress/anxiety and regulation of feeding.
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Novak CM, Zhang M, Levine JA. Neuromedin U in the paraventricular and arcuate hypothalamic nuclei increases non-exercise activity thermogenesis. J Neuroendocrinol 2006; 18:594-601. [PMID: 16867180 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2006.01454.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Brain neuromedin U (NMU) has been associated with the regulation of both energy intake and expenditure. We hypothesized that NMU induces changes in spontaneous physical activity and nonexercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) through its actions on hypothalamic nuclei. We applied increasing doses of NMU directly to the paraventricular (PVN) and arcuate hypothalamic nuclei using chronic unilateral guide cannulae. In both nuclei, NMU significantly and dose-dependently increased physical activity and NEAT. Moreover, NMU increased physical activity and NEAT during the first hour of the dark phase, indicating that the reduction of sleep is unlikely to account for the increased physical activity seen with NMU treatment. As a positive control, we demonstrated that paraventricular NMU also significantly decreased food intake, as well as body weight. These data demonstrate that NMU is positively associated with NEAT through its actions in the PVN and arcuate nucleus. In co-ordination with its suppressive effects on feeding, the NEAT-activating effects of NMU make it a potential candidate in the combat of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Novak
- Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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