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Bobermin LD, da Costa DS, de Moraes ADM, da Silva VF, de Oliveira GT, Sesterheim P, Tramontina AC, Basso LA, Leipnitz G, Quincozes-Santos A, Gonçalves CA. Effect of metformin in hypothalamic astrocytes from an immunocompromised mice model. Biochimie 2024; 223:196-205. [PMID: 38642825 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Astrocytes are glial cells that play key roles in neuroinflammation, which is a common feature in diabetic encephalopathy and aging process. Metformin is an antidiabetic compound that shows neuroprotective properties, including in inflammatory models, but astroglial signaling pathways involved are still poorly known. Interferons α/β are cytokines that participate in antiviral responses and the lack of their signaling increases susceptible to viral infections. Here, we investigated the effects of metformin on astrocytes from hypothalamus, a crucial brain region related to inflammatory processes. Astrocyte cultures were derived from interferon α/β receptor knockout (IFNα/βR-/-) and wild-type (WT) mice. Metformin did not change the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein but caused an anti-inflammatory effect by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β), as well as increasing gene expression of anti-inflammatory proteins interleukin-10 and Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid derived 2 like 2). However, nuclear factor κB p65 and cyclooxygenase 2 were downregulated in WT astrocytes and upregulated in IFNα/βR-/- astrocytes. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a molecular target of metformin, was upregulated only in WT astrocytes, while sirtuin 1 increased in both mice models. The expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase was decreased in WT astrocytes and heme oxygenase 1 was increased in IFNα/βR-/- astrocytes. Although loss of IFNα/βR-mediated signaling affects some effects of metformin, our results support beneficial roles of this drug in hypothalamic astrocytes. Moreover, paradoxical response of metformin may involve AMPK. Thus, metformin can mediate glioprotection due its effects on age-related disorders in non-diabetic and diabetic encephalopathy individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Daniele Bobermin
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Daniele Schauren da Costa
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Aline Daniel Moreira de Moraes
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Fernanda da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Giancarlo Tomazzoni de Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Sesterheim
- Centro de Cardiologia Experimental, Instituto de Cardiologia/Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Centro Estadual de Vigilância em Saúde da Secretaria de Saúde do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Tramontina
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ambiente e Sustentabilidade, Universidade Estadual do Rio Grande do Sul, São Francisco de Paula, RS, Brazil
| | - Luiz Augusto Basso
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional (CPBMF), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Guilhian Leipnitz
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - André Quincozes-Santos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Carlos-Alberto Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Ozmen O, Asci H, Uysal D, Ilhan I, Taner R, Arlıoglu M, Milletsever A, Tasan S. The prophylactic and therapeutic effects of cannabidiol on lung injury secondary to cardiac ischemia model in rats via PERK/NRF2/CHOP/BCL2 pathway. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2024:1-10. [PMID: 39048516 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2024.2384904] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation and oxidative stress are key players in lung injury stemming from cardiac ischemia (LISCI). Cannabidiol (CBD) demonstrates tissue-protective properties through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic characteristics. This study aims to assess the preventive (p-CBD) and therapeutic (t-CBD) effects of CBD on LISCI. METHODS Forty male Wistar Albino rats were divided into four groups: control (CON), LISCI, p-CBD, and t-CBD. The left anterior descending coronary artery was ligated for 30 min of ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion. Lung tissues were then extracted for histopathological, immunohistochemical, genetic, and biochemical analyses. RESULTS Histopathologically, marked hyperemia, increased septal tissue thickness, and inflammatory cell infiltrations were observed in the lung tissues of the LISCI group. Spectrophotometrically, total oxidant status and oxidative stress index levels were elevated, while total antioxidant status levels were decreased. Immunohistochemically, expressions of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX1), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF), interleukin-6 (IL6) were increased. In genetic analyses, PERK and CHOP expressions were increased, whereas Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 protein (BCL2) expressions were decreased. These parameters were alleviated by both prophylactic and therapeutic CBD treatment protocols. CONCLUSION In LISCI-induced damage, both endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial stress, along with oxidative and inflammatory markers, were triggered, resulting in lung cell damage. However, both p-CBD and t-CBD treatments effectively reversed these mechanisms, normalizing all histopathological, biochemical, and PCR parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Ozmen
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
| | - Halil Asci
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Dincer Uysal
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Ilter Ilhan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Rumeysa Taner
- Department of Bioengineering, Institute of Science, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Melih Arlıoglu
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey
| | - Adem Milletsever
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
| | - Serife Tasan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
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Nangia A, Saravanan JS, Hazra S, Priya V, Sudesh R, Rana SS, Ahmad F. Exploring the clinical connections between epilepsy and diabetes mellitus: Promising therapeutic strategies utilizing agmatine and metformin. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03295-1. [PMID: 39066910 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03295-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Diabetes mellitus (DM) and epilepsy and the psychological and socio-economic implications that are associated with their treatments can be quite perplexing. Metformin is an antihyperglycemic medication that is used to treat type 2 DM. In addition, metformin elicits protective actions against multiple diseases, including neurodegeneration and epilepsy. Recent studies indicate that metformin alters the resident gut microbiota in favor of species producing agmatine, an arginine metabolite which, in addition to beneficially altering metabolic pathways, is a potent neuroprotectant and neuromodulant. METHODS We first examine the literature for epidemiological and clinical evidences linking DM and epilepsy. Next, basing our analyses on published literature, we propose the possible complementarity of agmatine and metformin in the treatment of DM and epilepsy. RESULTS Our analyses of the clinical data suggest a significant association between pathogeneses of epilepsy and DM. Further, both agmatine and metformin appear to be multimodal therapeutic agents and have robust antiepileptogenic and antidiabetic properties. Data from animal and clinical studies largely support the use of metformin/agmatine as a double-edged pharmacotherapeutic agent against DM and epilepsy, particularly in their concurrent pathological occurrences. CONCLUSION The present review explores the evidences and available data on possible uses of metformin/agmatine as pertinent antidiabetic and antiepileptic agents. Our hope is that this will stimulate further research on the therapeutic actions of these multimodal agents, particularly for subject-specific clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aayushi Nangia
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Janani Srividya Saravanan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Shruti Hazra
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Vijayan Priya
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Ravi Sudesh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Sandeep Singh Rana
- Department of Biosciences, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Faraz Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India.
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Xia L, Chen J, Huang J, Lin X, Jiang J, Liu T, Huang N, Luo Y. The role of AMPKα subunit in Alzheimer's disease: In-depth analysis and future prospects. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34254. [PMID: 39071620 PMCID: PMC11279802 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The AMP-activated protein kinase α (AMPKα) subunit is the catalytic subunit in the AMPK complex, playing a crucial role in AMPK activation. It has two isoforms: AMPKα1 and AMPKα2. Emerging evidence suggests that the AMPKα subunit exhibits subtype-specific effects in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This review discusses the role of the AMPKα subunit in the pathogenesis of AD, including its impact on β-amyloid (Aβ) pathology, Tau pathology, metabolic disorders, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammasome and pyroptosis. Additionally, it reviews the distinct roles of its isoforms, AMPKα1 and AMPKα2, in AD, which may provide more precise targets for future drug development in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingqiong Xia
- Department of Neurology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Jianhua Chen
- Department of Neurology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Juan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Xianmei Lin
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Jingyu Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guizhou Aerospace Hospital, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- National Drug Clinical Trial Institution, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Nanqu Huang
- National Drug Clinical Trial Institution, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yong Luo
- Department of Neurology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
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Kumar Nelson V, Jha NK, Nuli MV, Gupta S, Kanna S, Gahtani RM, Hani U, Singh AK, Abomughaid MM, Abomughayedh AM, Almutary AG, Iqbal D, Al Othaim A, Begum SS, Ahmad F, Mishra PC, Jha SK, Ojha S. Unveiling the impact of aging on BBB and Alzheimer's disease: Factors and therapeutic implications. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 98:102224. [PMID: 38346505 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a highly prevalent neurodegenerative condition that has devastating effects on individuals, often resulting in dementia. AD is primarily defined by the presence of extracellular plaques containing insoluble β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) composed of hyperphosphorylated tau protein (P-tau). In addition, individuals afflicted by these age-related illnesses experience a diminished state of health, which places significant financial strain on their loved ones. Several risk factors play a significant role in the development of AD. These factors include genetics, diet, smoking, certain diseases (such as cerebrovascular diseases, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia), age, and alcohol consumption. Age-related factors are key contributors to the development of vascular-based neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. In general, the process of aging can lead to changes in the immune system's responses and can also initiate inflammation in the brain. The chronic inflammation and the inflammatory mediators found in the brain play a crucial role in the dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Furthermore, maintaining BBB integrity is of utmost importance in preventing a wide range of neurological disorders. Therefore, in this review, we discussed the role of age and its related factors in the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and the development of AD. We also discussed the importance of different compounds, such as those with anti-aging properties, and other compounds that can help maintain the integrity of the blood-brain barrier in the prevention of AD. This review builds a strong correlation between age-related factors, degradation of the BBB, and its impact on AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod Kumar Nelson
- Raghavendra Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Anantapur, India.
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India; Centre of Research Impact and Outcome, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, Punjab, India; School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India; Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India.
| | - Mohana Vamsi Nuli
- Raghavendra Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Anantapur, India
| | - Saurabh Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sandeep Kanna
- Department of pharmaceutics, Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chalapathi Nagar, Guntur 522034, India
| | - Reem M Gahtani
- Departement of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Umme Hani
- Department of pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arun Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mosleh Mohammad Abomughaid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M Abomughayedh
- Pharmacy Department, Aseer Central Hospital, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmajeed G Almutary
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi, P.O. Box 59911, United Arab Emirates
| | - Danish Iqbal
- Department of Health Information Management, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Buraydah Private Colleges, Buraydah 51418, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayoub Al Othaim
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia.
| | - S Sabarunisha Begum
- Department of Biotechnology, P.S.R. Engineering College, Sivakasi 626140, India
| | - Fuzail Ahmad
- Respiratory Care Department, College of Applied Sciences, Almaarefa University, Diriya, Riyadh, 13713, Saudi Arabia
| | - Prabhu Chandra Mishra
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Saurabh Kumar Jha
- Department of Zoology, Kalindi College, University of Delhi, 110008, India.
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
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Gorbatenko VO, Goriainov SV, Babenko VA, Plotnikov EY, Chistyakov DV, Sergeeva MG. TLR3-mediated Astrocyte Responses in High and Normal Glucose Adaptation Differently Regulated by Metformin. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01380-z. [PMID: 38918312 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01380-z] [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] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Toll-like receptors 3 (TLR3) are innate immune receptors expressed on a wide range of cell types, including glial cells. Inflammatory responses altered by hyperglycemia highlight the need to explore the molecular underpinnings of these changes in cellular models. Therefore, here we estimated TLR3-mediated response of astrocytes cultured at normal (NG, 5 mM) and high (HG, 22.5 mM) glucose concentrations for 48 h before stimulation with polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid Poly(I:C) (PIC) for 6 h. Seahorse Extracellular Flux Analyzer (Seahorse XFp) was used to estimate the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and oxygen consumption rate (OCR). Although adaptation to HG affected ECAR and OCR, the stimulation of cells with PIC had no effect on ECAR. PIC reduced maximal OCR, but this effect disappeared upon adaptation to HG. PIC-stimulated release of cytokines IL-1β, IL-10 was reduced, and that of IL-6 and iNOS was increased in the HG model. Adaptation to HG reduced PIC-stimulated synthesis of COX-derived oxylipins measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Adaptation to HG did not alter PIC-stimulated p38 activity, ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase, STAT3 and ROS production. Metformin exhibited anti-inflammatory activity, reducing PIC-stimulated synthesis of cytokines and oxylipins. Cell adaptation to high glucose concentration altered the sensitivity of astrocytes to TLR3 receptor activation, and the hypoglycemic drug metformin may exert anti-inflammatory effects under these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav O Gorbatenko
- Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey V Goriainov
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 117198, Moscow, Russia
| | - Valentina A Babenko
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992, Moscow, Russia
| | - Egor Y Plotnikov
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry V Chistyakov
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 117198, Moscow, Russia.
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Marina G Sergeeva
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992, Moscow, Russia
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Shu Y, Xiong Y, Song Y, Jin S, Bai X. Positive association between circulating Caveolin-1 and microalbuminuria in overt diabetes mellitus in pregnancy. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:201-212. [PMID: 37358699 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02137-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Mounting evidence has shown that caveolin-1 plays a pathological role in the progression of albuminuria. Our study aimed to provide clinical evidence showing whether circulating caveolin-1 levels were associated with microalbuminuria (MAU) in women with overt diabetes mellitus in pregnancy (ODMIP). METHODS A total of 150 pregnant women were enrolled in different groups, including 40 women with ODMIP and MAU (ODMIP + MAU), 40 women with ODMIP, and 70 women without ODMIP (Non-ODMIP). Plasma caveolin-1 levels were determined by ELISA. The presence of caveolin-1 in the human umbilical vein vascular wall was evaluated by immunohistochemical and western blot analysis, respectively. Albumin transcytosis across endothelial cells was measured using an established nonradioactive in vitro approach. RESULTS Significantly increased levels of plasma caveolin-1 were detected in ODMIP + MAU women. The Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between plasma caveolin-1 levels and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c %) as well as with MAU in the ODMIP + MAU group. Simultaneously, experimental knockdown or overexpression of caveolin-1 significantly decreased or increased the level of albumin transcytosis across both human and mouse glomerular endothelial cells (GECs), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our data showed a positive association between plasma caveolin-1 levels and microalbuminuria in ODMIP + MAU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Shu
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Lake Road, East Lake Ecological Scenic, Wuhan, 430077, Hubei Province, China
| | - Y Xiong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Lake Road, East Lake Ecological Scenic, Wuhan, 430077, Hubei Province, China
| | - Y Song
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Lake Road, East Lake Ecological Scenic, Wuhan, 430077, Hubei Province, China
| | - S Jin
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Lake Road, East Lake Ecological Scenic, Wuhan, 430077, Hubei Province, China.
| | - X Bai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Lake Road, East Lake Ecological Scenic, Wuhan, 430077, Hubei Province, China.
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Isop LM, Neculau AE, Necula RD, Kakucs C, Moga MA, Dima L. Metformin: The Winding Path from Understanding Its Molecular Mechanisms to Proving Therapeutic Benefits in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1714. [PMID: 38139841 PMCID: PMC10748332 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121714] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, has garnered increasing attention for its potential neuroprotective properties due to the growing demand for treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron diseases. This review synthesizes experimental and clinical studies on metformin's mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative disorders. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library, focused on key phrases such as "metformin", "neuroprotection", and "neurodegenerative diseases", with data up to September 2023. Recent research on metformin's glucoregulatory mechanisms reveals new molecular targets, including the activation of the LKB1-AMPK signaling pathway, which is crucial for chronic administration of metformin. The pleiotropic impact may involve other stress kinases that are acutely activated. The precise role of respiratory chain complexes (I and IV), of the mitochondrial targets, or of the lysosomes in metformin effects remains to be established by further research. Research on extrahepatic targets like the gut and microbiota, as well as its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, is crucial for understanding neurodegenerative disorders. Experimental data on animal models shows promising results, but clinical studies are inconclusive. Understanding the molecular targets and mechanisms of its effects could help design clinical trials to explore and, hopefully, prove its therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mihaela Isop
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Andrea Elena Neculau
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Radu Dan Necula
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Cristian Kakucs
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
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Meng F, Fu J, Zhang L, Guo M, Zhuang P, Yin Q, Zhang Y. Function and therapeutic value of astrocytes in diabetic cognitive impairment. Neurochem Int 2023; 169:105591. [PMID: 37543309 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic cognitive impairment (DCI) is a complex complication of diabetes in the central nervous system, and its pathological mechanism is still being explored. Astrocytes are abundant glial cells in central nervous system that perform diverse functions in health and disease. Accumulating excellent research has identified astrocyte dysfunction in many neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's disease, aging and Parkinson's disease), and summarized and discussed its pathological mechanisms and potential therapeutic value. However, the contribution of astrocytes to DCI has been largely overlooked. In this review, we first systematically summarized the effects and mechanisms of diabetes on brain astrocytes, and found that the diabetic environment (such as hyperglycemia, advanced glycation end products and cerebral insulin resistance) mediated brain reactive astrogliosis, which was specifically reflected in the changes of cell morphology and the remodeling of signature molecules. Secondly, we emphasized the contribution and potential targets of reactive astrogliosis to DCI, and found that reactive astrogliosis-induced increased blood-brain barrier permeability, glymphatic system dysfunction, neuroinflammation, abnormal cell communication and cholesterol metabolism dysregulation worsened cognitive function. In addition, we summarized effective strategies for treating DCI by targeting astrocytes. Finally, we discuss the application of new techniques in astrocytes, including single-cell transcriptome, in situ sequencing, and prospected new functions, new subsets and new targets of astrocytes in DCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanyu Meng
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Jiafeng Fu
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Mengqing Guo
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Pengwei Zhuang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Qingsheng Yin
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China.
| | - Yanjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; Haihe Laboratory of Modern Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China; First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 300193, China; National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300193, China.
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10
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Shen Z, Li ZY, Yu MT, Tan KL, Chen S. Metabolic perspective of astrocyte dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes brains. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114206. [PMID: 36916433 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The term type III diabetes (T3DM) has been proposed for Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to the shared molecular and cellular features between type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and insulin resistance-associated memory deficits and cognitive decline in elderly individuals. Astrocytes elicit neuroprotective or deleterious effects in AD progression and severity. Patients with T2DM are at a high risk of cognitive impairment, and targeting astrocytes might be promising in alleviating neurodegeneration in the diabetic brain. Recent studies focusing on cell-specific activities in the brain have revealed the important role of astrocytes in brain metabolism (e.g., glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism), neurovascular coupling, synapses, and synaptic plasticity. In this review, we discuss how astrocytes and their dysfunction result in multiple pathological and clinical features of AD and T2DM from a metabolic perspective and the potential comorbid mechanism in these two diseases from the perspective of astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Shen
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Zheng-Yang Li
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Meng-Ting Yu
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China
| | - Kai-Leng Tan
- Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, China.
| | - Si Chen
- Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai Campus, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519041, China.
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11
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Tang W, Li Y, He S, Jiang T, Wang N, Du M, Cheng B, Gao W, Li Y, Wang Q. Caveolin-1 Alleviates Diabetes-Associated Cognitive Dysfunction Through Modulating Neuronal Ferroptosis-Mediated Mitochondrial Homeostasis. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 37:867-886. [PMID: 35350885 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Aims: Iron metabolism is involved in many biological processes in the brain. Alterations in iron homeostasis have been associated with several neurodegenerative disorders. Instead of stroke and ischemic heart disease, dementia has become the second leading cause of mortality among the type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) population. Therefore, we attempted to investigate the role of ferroptosis in diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction (DACD). Results: We evaluated ferroptosis hallmarks in the hippocampus of T2DM (high-fat diet/streptozotocin, HFD/STZ) mice, primary hippocampal neurons, as well as in the blood of patients. The results of Gene Set Enrichment Analysis showed significantly differentially expressed genes related to ferroptosis-related pathways between normal control (db/m) and leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) mice. Here, ferroptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive impairment were revealed, and caveolin-1 (cav-1) was significantly downregulated in the hippocampus of T2DM (HFD/STZ) mice. In addition, ferrostatin-1 and cav-1 restoration neutralized ferroptosis-related symbolic changes, mitochondrial dysfunction, and improved cognitive dysfunction. Notably, the plasma levels of Fe2+ and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in T2DM patients showed a tendency to increase compared with those in nondiabetic subjects, and the Fe2+ level was negatively correlated with the cognitive ability in T2DM subjects. Innovation: For the first time, this study suggested that ferroptosis promoted the progression of DACD induced by T2DM both in vivo and in vitro, and supported the clinical evidence for the correlation between ferroptosis and T2DM-related DACD, which provided new insights into the potential antioxidant effects of ferroptosis inhibitors and cav-1 on DACD. Conclusions: The overexpression of cav-1 may attenuate DACD by modulating neuronal ferroptosis-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis. We put cav-1 on the spotlight as a promising candidate to prevent DACD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 867-886.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxin Tang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yansong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuxuan He
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Mengyu Du
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bo Cheng
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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12
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Zhou R, He M, Fan J, Li R, Zuo Y, Li B, Gao G, Sun T. The role of hypothalamic endoplasmic reticulum stress in schizophrenia and antipsychotic-induced weight gain: A narrative review. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:947295. [PMID: 36188456 PMCID: PMC9523121 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.947295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a serious mental illness that affects 1% of people worldwide. SCZ is associated with a higher risk of developing metabolic disorders such as obesity. Antipsychotics are the main treatment for SCZ, but their side effects include significant weight gain/obesity. Despite extensive research, the underlying mechanisms by which SCZ and antipsychotic treatment induce weight gain/obesity remain unclear. Hypothalamic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is one of the most important pathways that modulates inflammation, neuronal function, and energy balance. This review aimed to investigate the role of hypothalamic ER stress in SCZ and antipsychotic-induced weight gain/obesity. Preliminary evidence indicates that SCZ is associated with reduced dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) signaling, which significantly regulates the ER stress pathway, suggesting the importance of ER stress in SCZ and its related metabolic disorders. Antipsychotics such as olanzapine activate ER stress in hypothalamic neurons. These effects may induce decreased proopiomelanocortin (POMC) processing, increased neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related protein (AgRP) expression, autophagy, and leptin and insulin resistance, resulting in hyperphagia, decreased energy expenditure, and central inflammation, thereby causing weight gain. By activating ER stress, antipsychotics such as olanzapine activate hypothalamic astrocytes and Toll-like receptor 4 signaling, thereby causing inflammation and weight gain/obesity. Moreover, evidence suggests that antipsychotic-induced ER stress may be related to their antagonistic effects on neurotransmitter receptors such as DRD2 and the histamine H1 receptor. Taken together, ER stress inhibitors could be a potential effective intervention against SCZ and antipsychotic-induced weight gain and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqin Zhou
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng He
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Meng He,
| | - Jun Fan
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ruoxi Li
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufeng Zuo
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Benben Li
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guanbin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
- Guanbin Gao,
| | - Taolei Sun
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Sciences, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
- Taolei Sun,
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13
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Su SC, Chien CY, Chen YC, Chiang CF, Lin FH, Kuo FC, Huang CL, Li PF, Liu JS, Lu CH, Ho LJ, Hsieh CH, Hung YJ, Shieh YS, Lee CH. PDIA4, a novel ER stress chaperone, modulates adiponectin expression and inflammation in adipose tissue. Biofactors 2022; 48:1060-1075. [PMID: 35674710 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence supporting a causal link between obesity and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in adipose tissue is being reported. Protein disulfide isomerase 4 (PDIA4) is a novel ER chaperone involved in the pancreatic β-cells pathogenesis in diabetes. However, the role of PDIA4 in obesity progression remains poorly understood. To assess the relationship between PDIA4, adiponectin, and metformin, we used the palmitate-induced inflammation in hypertrophic adipocytes and the high-fat diet-induced obesity mouse model. Our results revealed that palmitate-induced hypertrophic adipocytes exhibit obesity-associated conditions such as increased lipid accumulation, inflammation, and reduced glucose uptake. Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of PDIA4 significantly reverses these obesity-associated conditions in adipocytes. PDIA4 mechanistically promotes obesity progression via adiponectin downregulation. Furthermore, metformin modulates PDIA4 and adiponectin expression and improves obesity-associated conditions in both in vitro adipocytes and in vivo mouse models. Serum PDIA4 concentrations are also associated with body mass index, adiponectin, triglycerides, and inflammatory cytokines in humans. This is the first study demonstrating that PDIA4 modulates adipocytes by downregulating adiponectin. Moreover, metformin may serve as a potential therapeutic for preventing obesity via PDIA4-targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Chiang Su
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Yen Chien
- School of Dentistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chen Chen
- School of Dentistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Fu Chiang
- School of Dentistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Huang Lin
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Chih Kuo
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Luen Huang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Fei Li
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jhih-Syuan Liu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Hua Lu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Ju Ho
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Hsun Hsieh
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Hung
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department and Graduate Institute of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shing Shieh
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Dentistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department and Graduate Institute of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hsing Lee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department and Graduate Institute of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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14
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Peng L, Liu S, Xu J, Xie W, Fang X, Xia T, Gu X. Metformin alleviates prolonged isoflurane inhalation induced cognitive decline via reducing neuroinflammation in adult mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 109:108903. [PMID: 35709590 PMCID: PMC9190296 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
With the widespread use of volatile anesthetic agents in the prolonged sedation for COVID-19 pneumonia and ARDS, there is an urgent need to investigate the effects and treatments of lengthy low-concentration inhaled anesthetics exposure on cognitive function in adults. Previous studies showed that general anesthetics dose- and exposure length-dependently induced neuroinflammatory response and cognitive decline in neonatal and aging animals. The anti-diabetes drug metformin has anti-neuroinflammation effects by modulating microglial polarization and inhibiting astrocyte activation. In this study, we demonstrated that the inhalation of 1.3% isoflurane (a sub-minimal alveolar concentration, sub-MAC) for 6 h impaired recognition of novel objects from Day 1 to Day3 in adult mice. Prolonged sub-MAC isoflurane exposure also triggered typically reactive microglia and A1-like astrocytes in the hippocampus of adult mice on Day 3 after anesthesia. In addition, prolonged isoflurane inhalation switched microglia into a proinflammatory M1 phenotype characterized by elevated CD68 and iNOS as well as decreased arginase-1 and IL-10. Metformin pretreatment before anesthesia enhanced cognitive performance in the novel object test. The positive cellular modifications promoted by metformin pretreatment included the inhibition of reactive microglia and A1-like astrocytes and the polarization of microglia into M2 phenotype in the hippocampus of adult mice. In conclusion, prolonged sub-MAC isoflurane exposure triggered significant hippocampal neuroinflammation and cognitive decline in adult mice which can be alleviated by metformin pretreatment via inhibiting reactive microglia and A1-like astrocytes and promoting microglia polarization toward anti-inflammatory phenotype in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangyu Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical Department of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Shuai Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical Department of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jiyan Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical Department of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wenjia Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical Department of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xin Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical Department of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianjiao Xia
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, Jiangsu, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xiaoping Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical Department of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu, China.
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15
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Actions of Metformin in the Brain: A New Perspective of Metformin Treatments in Related Neurological Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158281. [PMID: 35955427 PMCID: PMC9368983 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a first-line drug for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world. Besides its hypoglycemic effects, metformin also can improve cognitive or mood functions in some T2DM patients; moreover, it has been reported that metformin exerts beneficial effects on many neurological disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Fragile X syndrome (FXS); however, the mechanism underlying metformin in the brain is not fully understood. Neurotransmission between neurons is fundamental for brain functions, and its defects have been implicated in many neurological disorders. Recent studies suggest that metformin appears not only to regulate synaptic transmission or plasticity in pathological conditions but also to regulate the balance of excitation and inhibition (E/I balance) in neural networks. In this review, we focused on and reviewed the roles of metformin in brain functions and related neurological disorders, which would give us a deeper understanding of the actions of metformin in the brain.
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16
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Gorbatenko VO, Goriainov SV, Babenko VA, Plotnikov EY, Sergeeva MG, Chistyakov DV. Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Metformin During Cultivation of Primary Rat Astrocytes in a Medium with High Glucose Concentration. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2022; 87:577-589. [PMID: 36154879 DOI: 10.1134/s000629792207001x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Investigation of the relationship between inflammation and energy metabolism is important for understanding biology of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Use of metformin, a drug for treatment of diabetes, is considered as a promising direction for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and other neuropathologies with an inflammatory component. Astrocytes play an important role in the regulation of energy metabolism and neuroinflammation; therefore, we studied the effect of metformin on the cellular responses of primary rat astrocytes cultured in a medium with high glucose concentration (22.5 mM, 48-h incubation). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to stimulate inflammation. The effects of metformin were assessed by monitoring changes in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and synthesis of oxylipins, assayed with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Changes at the intracellular level were assessed by analyzing phosphorylation of ERK kinase and transcription factor STAT3, as well as enzymes mediating oxylipin synthesis, cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX). It was found that, independent on glucose concentration, metformin reduced the LPS-stimulated release of cytokines IL-1β and IL-6, decreased activity of the transcription factor STAT3, ERK kinase, synthesis of the derivatives of the cyclooxygenase branch of metabolism of oxylipins and anandamide, and did not affect formation of ROS. The study of energy phenotype of the cells showed that metformin activated glycolysis and inhibited mitochondrial respiration and oxidative phosphorylation, independent on LPS stimulation and cell cultivation at high glucose concentration. Thus, it has been shown that metformin exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, and its effect on the synthesis of cytokines, prostaglandins, and other lipid mediators could determine beneficial effects of metformin in models of neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav O Gorbatenko
- Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119234, Russia
| | - Sergey V Goriainov
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, 117198, Russia
| | - Valentina A Babenko
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia
| | - Egor Y Plotnikov
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia
| | - Marina G Sergeeva
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia
| | - Dmitry V Chistyakov
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119992, Russia.
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17
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Wiernsperger N, Al-Salameh A, Cariou B, Lalau JD. Protection by metformin against severe Covid-19: an in-depth mechanistic analysis. DIABETES & METABOLISM 2022; 48:101359. [PMID: 35662580 PMCID: PMC9154087 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabet.2022.101359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Since the outbreak of Covid-19, several observational studies on diabetes and Covid-19 have reported a favourable association between metformin and Covid-19-related outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This is not surprising since metformin affects many of the pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in SARS-CoV-2 immune response, systemic spread and sequelae. A comparison of the multifactorial pathophysiological mechanisms of Covid-19 progression with metformin's well-known pleiotropic properties suggests that the treatment of patients with this drug might be particularly beneficial. Indeed, metformin could alleviate the cytokine storm, diminish virus entry into cells, protect against microvascular damage as well as prevent secondary fibrosis. Although our in-depth analysis covers many potential metformin mechanisms of action, we want to highlight more particularly its unique microcirculatory protective effects since worsening of Covid-19 disease clearly appears as largely due to severe defects in the structure and functioning of microvessels. Overall, these observations confirm that metformin is a unique, pleiotropic drug that targets many of Covid-19′s pathophysiology processes in a diabetes-independent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdallah Al-Salameh
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Nutrition, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France; PériTox/UMR-I 01, University of Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Bertrand Cariou
- Département d'Endocrinologie, Diabétologie et Nutrition, l'institut du thorax, Inserm, CNRS, UNIV Nantes, CHU Nantes, Hôpital Guillaume et René Laennec, 44093 Nantes Cedex 01, France
| | - Jean-Daniel Lalau
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Nutrition, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France; PériTox/UMR-I 01, University of Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France.
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18
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Du MR, Gao QY, Liu CL, Bai LY, Li T, Wei FL. Exploring the Pharmacological Potential of Metformin for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:838173. [PMID: 35557834 PMCID: PMC9087341 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.838173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin, one of the first-line of hypoglycemic drugs, has cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, in addition to its proven hypoglycemic effects. Furthermore, the preventive and therapeutic potential of metformin for neurodegenerative diseases has become a topic of concern. Increasing research suggests that metformin can prevent the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years, many studies have investigated the neuroprotective effect of metformin in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. It has been revealed that metformin can play a neuroprotective role by regulating energy metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory response and protein deposition of cells, and avoiding neuronal dysfunction and neuronal death. On the contrary, some have hypothesized that metformin has a two-sided effect which may accelerate the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, the results of animal experiments and clinical studies are reviewed to discuss the application prospects of metformin in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Rui Du
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Quan-You Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chen-Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biotechnology Center, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin-Ya Bai
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei-Long Wei
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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19
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Sanati M, Aminyavari S, Afshari AR, Sahebkar A. Mechanistic insight into the role of metformin in Alzheimer's disease. Life Sci 2022; 291:120299. [PMID: 34999113 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a type of dementia, is characterized by progressive memory decline and cognition impairment. Despite the considerable body of evidence regarding AD pathophysiology, current therapies merely slow down the disease progression, and a comprehensive therapeutic approach is unavailable. Accordingly, finding an efficient multifunctional remedy is necessary to blunt the increasing rate of AD incidence in the upcoming years. AD shares pathophysiological similarities (e.g., impairment of cognitive functions, insulin sensitivity, and brain glucose metabolism) with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), which offers the utilization of metformin, a biguanide hypoglycemic agent, as an alternative therapeutic approach in AD therapy. Emerging evidence has revealed the impact of metformin in patients suffering from AD. It has been described that metformin employs multiple mechanisms to improve cognition and memory impairment in pre-clinical AD models, including reduction of hippocampal amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) load, suppression of inflammation, amelioration of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, restriction of apoptotic neuronal death, and induction of neurogenesis. This review discusses the pre-clinical evidence, which may shed light on the role of metformin in AD and provide a more comprehensive mechanistic insight for future studies in this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Sanati
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Samaneh Aminyavari
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir R Afshari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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20
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Liao W, Xu J, Li B, Ruan Y, Li T, Liu J. Deciphering the Roles of Metformin in Alzheimer's Disease: A Snapshot. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:728315. [PMID: 35153733 PMCID: PMC8829062 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.728315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease predominantly affecting millions of elderly people. To date, no effective therapy has been identified to reverse the progression of AD. Metformin, as a first-line medication for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), exerts multiple beneficial effects on various neurodegenerative disorders, including AD. Evidence from clinical studies has demonstrated that metformin use contributes to a lower risk of developing AD and better cognitive performance, which might be modified by interactors such as diabetic status and APOE-ε4 status. Previous mechanistic studies have gradually unveiled the effects of metformin on AD pathology and pathophysiology, including neuronal loss, neural dysfunction, amyloid-β (Aβ) depositions, tau phosphorylation, chronic neuroinflammation, insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction. Current evidence remains ambiguous and even conflicting. Herein, we review the current state of knowledge concerning the mechanisms of metformin in AD pathology while summarizing current evidence from clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Liao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxin Xu
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuting Ruan
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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21
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Ning P, Luo A, Mu X, Xu Y, Li T. Exploring the dual character of metformin in Alzheimer's disease. Neuropharmacology 2022; 207:108966. [PMID: 35077762 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.108966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, which results in dementia typically in the elderly. The disease is mainly characterized by the deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the brain. However, only few drugs are available for AD because of its unknown pathological mechanism which limits the development of new drugs. Therefore, it is urgent to identify potential therapeutic strategies for AD. Moreover, research have showed that there is a significant association between Type 2 diabetes mellites (T2DM) and AD, suggesting that the two diseases may share common pathophysiological mechanisms. Such mechanisms include impaired insulin signaling, altered glucose metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and premature aging, which strongly affect cognitive function and increased risk of dementia. Consequently, as a widely used drug for T2DM, metformin also has therapeutic potential for AD in vivo. It has been confirmed that metformin is beneficial on the brain of AD animal models. The mechanisms underlying the effects of metformin in Alzheimer's disease are complex and multifaceted. Metformin may work through mechanisms involving homeostasis of glucose metabolism, decrease of amyloid plaque deposition, normalization of tau protein phosphorylation and enhancement of autophagy. However, in clinical trials, metformin had little effects on patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild AD. Pathological effects and negative clinical results of metformin on AD make the current topic quite controversial. By reviewing the latest progress of related research, this paper summarizes the possible role of metformin in AD. The purpose of this study is not only to determine the potential treatment of AD, but also other related neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Ning
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Anling Luo
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Xin Mu
- Department of Neurology, Chengdu First People's Hospital, 18 Wanxiang North Road, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Yanming Xu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University/Air Force Medical University, No. 169 Changle West Rd, Xi'an, 710032, PR China.
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22
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Rehni AK, Cho S, Dave KR. Ischemic brain injury in diabetes and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Neurochem Int 2022; 152:105219. [PMID: 34736936 PMCID: PMC8918032 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes is a widespread disease characterized by high blood glucose levels due to abnormal insulin activity, production, or both. Chronic diabetes causes many secondary complications including cardiovascular disease: a life-threatening complication. Cerebral ischemia-related mortality, morbidity, and the extent of brain injury are high in diabetes. However, the mechanism of increase in ischemic brain injury during diabetes is not well understood. Multiple mechanisms mediate diabetic hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia-induced increase in ischemic brain injury. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress mediates both brain injury as well as brain protection after ischemia-reperfusion injury. The pathways of ER stress are modulated during diabetes. Free radical generation and mitochondrial dysfunction, two of the prominent mechanisms that mediate diabetic increase in ischemic brain injury, are known to stimulate the pathways of ER stress. Increased ischemic brain injury in diabetes is accompanied by a further increase in the activation of ER stress. As there are many metabolic changes associated with diabetes, differential activation of the pathways of ER stress may mediate pronounced ischemic brain injury in subjects suffering from diabetes. We presently discuss the literature on the significance of ER stress in mediating increased ischemia-reperfusion injury in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish K Rehni
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research Laboratories, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Sunjoo Cho
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research Laboratories, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Kunjan R Dave
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research Laboratories, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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23
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Agostini F, Masato A, Bubacco L, Bisaglia M. Metformin Repurposing for Parkinson Disease Therapy: Opportunities and Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010398. [PMID: 35008822 PMCID: PMC8745385 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson disease (PD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder that affects around 2% of the population over 65 years old. It is characterized by the progressive loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, resulting in motor disabilities of the patients. At present, only symptomatic cures are available, without suppressing disease progression. In this frame, the anti-diabetic drug metformin has been investigated as a potential disease modifier for PD, being a low-cost and generally well-tolerated medication, which has been successfully used for decades in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Despite the precise mechanisms of action of metformin being not fully elucidated, the drug has been known to influence many cellular pathways that are associated with PD pathology. In this review, we present the evidence in the literature supporting the neuroprotective role of metformin, i.e., autophagy upregulation, degradation of pathological α-synuclein species, and regulation of mitochondrial functions. The epidemiological studies conducted in diabetic patients under metformin therapy aimed at evaluating the correlation between long-term metformin consumption and the risk of developing PD are also discussed. Finally, we provide an interpretation for the controversial results obtained both in experimental models and in clinical studies, thus providing a possible rationale for future investigations for the repositioning of metformin for PD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Agostini
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (F.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Anna Masato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (F.A.); (A.M.)
| | - Luigi Bubacco
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (F.A.); (A.M.)
- Center Study for Neurodegeneration (CESNE), University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.B.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Bisaglia
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy; (F.A.); (A.M.)
- Center Study for Neurodegeneration (CESNE), University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.B.); (M.B.)
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Zhou Y, Murugan DD, Khan H, Huang Y, Cheang WS. Roles and Therapeutic Implications of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Oxidative Stress in Cardiovascular Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10081167. [PMID: 34439415 PMCID: PMC8388996 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10081167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In different pathological states that cause endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium depletion, altered glycosylation, nutrient deprivation, oxidative stress, DNA damage or energy perturbation/fluctuations, the protein folding process is disrupted and the ER becomes stressed. Studies in the past decade have demonstrated that ER stress is closely associated with pathogenesis of obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Excess nutrients and inflammatory cytokines associated with metabolic diseases can trigger or worsen ER stress. ER stress plays a critical role in the induction of endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. Signaling pathways including AMP-activated protein kinase and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor have been identified to regulate ER stress, whilst ER stress contributes to the imbalanced production between nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) causing oxidative stress. Several drugs or herbs have been proved to protect against cardiovascular diseases (CVD) through inhibition of ER stress and oxidative stress. The present article reviews the involvement of ER stress and oxidative stress in cardiovascular dysfunction and the potential therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China;
| | - Dharmani Devi Murugan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan 23200, Pakistan;
| | - Yu Huang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Wai San Cheang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +853-8822-4914
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Beneficial Effects of Metformin on the Central Nervous System, with a Focus on Epilepsy and Lafora Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105351. [PMID: 34069559 PMCID: PMC8160983 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a drug in the family of biguanide compounds that is widely used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Interestingly, the therapeutic potential of metformin expands its prescribed use as an anti-diabetic drug. In this sense, it has been described that metformin administration has beneficial effects on different neurological conditions. In this work, we review the beneficial effects of this drug as a neuroprotective agent in different neurological diseases, with a special focus on epileptic disorders and Lafora disease, a particular type of progressive myoclonus epilepsy. In addition, we review the different proposed mechanisms of action of metformin to understand its function at the neurological level.
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Alternative Targets to Fight Alzheimer's Disease: Focus on Astrocytes. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040600. [PMID: 33921556 PMCID: PMC8073475 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The available treatments for patients affected by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are not curative. Numerous clinical trials have failed during the past decades. Therefore, scientists need to explore new avenues to tackle this disease. In the present review, we briefly summarize the pathological mechanisms of AD known so far, based on which different therapeutic tools have been designed. Then, we focus on a specific approach that is targeting astrocytes. Indeed, these non-neuronal brain cells respond to any insult, injury, or disease of the brain, including AD. The study of astrocytes is complicated by the fact that they exert a plethora of homeostatic functions, and their disease-induced changes could be context-, time-, and disease specific. However, this complex but fervent area of research has produced a large amount of data targeting different astrocytic functions using pharmacological approaches. Here, we review the most recent literature findings that have been published in the last five years to stimulate new hypotheses and ideas to work on, highlighting the peculiar ability of palmitoylethanolamide to modulate astrocytes according to their morpho-functional state, which ultimately suggests a possible potential disease-modifying therapeutic approach for AD.
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