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Maleknejad S, Dalili S, Sharifi A, Hassanzadeh Rad A, Bayat R, Rabbani B, Mahdieh N. Expanding the Phenotype of Congenital Glucocorticoid Deficiency: An Iranian Patient with Cholestasis due to Pathogenic Variants in the MC2R Gene. Int J Endocrinol 2024; 2024:3201949. [PMID: 39135905 PMCID: PMC11319056 DOI: 10.1155/2024/3201949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Familial glucocorticoid deficiency is caused by variants in the MC2R and MRAP genes. We report an Iranian patient with congenital glucocorticoid deficiency and cholestasis due to pathogenic variants in the MC2R gene. This is the first documented case of a patient with conditions. Clinical evaluations and lab assessments were conducted on a six-month-old male infant. Next-generation sequencing identified the genetic causes of the disease, and Sanger sequencing confirmed the variants through segregation analysis. The clinical presentation included prolonged jaundice, progressive skin hyperpigmentation, seizures, fever, and a large umbilical hernia. Two variants in the MC2R gene, c.560delT and c.676G > C, were detected and classified as pathogenic and likely pathogenic, respectively. The cooccurrence of cholestasis and glucocorticoid deficiency illustrates the clinical heterogeneity caused by MC2R variants. The prevalence of c.560delT and c.676G > C between Iranian populations suggests these variants may be common. The high frequency of c.560delT could be attributed to a founder effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohreh Maleknejad
- Pediatric Diseases Research CenterGuilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Setila Dalili
- Pediatric Diseases Research CenterGuilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Ameneh Sharifi
- Growth and Development Research CenterTehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afagh Hassanzadeh Rad
- Pediatric Diseases Research CenterGuilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Reza Bayat
- Pediatric Diseases Research CenterGuilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Bahareh Rabbani
- Growth and Development Research CenterTehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nejat Mahdieh
- Cardiogenetic Research CenterRajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research InstituteIran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Heo G, Lee SH, Kim JD, Lee GH, Sim JM, Zhou D, Guo J, Cui XS. GRP78 acts as a cAMP/PKA signaling modulator through the MC4R pathway in porcine embryonic development. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23274. [PMID: 37917004 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301356r] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) binds to and stabilizes melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), which activates protein kinase A (PKA) by regulating G proteins. GRP78 is primarily used as a marker for endoplasmic reticulum stress; however, its other functions have not been well studied. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the function of GRP78 during porcine embryonic development. The developmental quality of porcine embryos, expression of cell cycle proteins, and function of mitochondria were evaluated by inhibiting the function of GRP78. Porcine oocytes were activated to undergo parthenogenesis, and blastocysts were obtained after 7 days of in vitro culture. GRP78 function was inhibited by adding 20 μM HA15 to the in vitro culture medium. The inhibition in GRP78 function led to a decrease in G proteins release, which subsequently downregulated the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/PKA pathway. Ultimately, inhibition of GRP78 function induced the inhibition of CDK1 and cyclin B expression and disruption of the cell cycle. In addition, inhibition of GRP78 function regulated DRP1 and SIRT1 expression, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction. This study provides new insights into the role of GRP78 in porcine embryonic development, particularly its involvement in the regulation of the MC4R pathway and downstream cAMP/PKA signaling. The results suggest that the inhibition of GRP78 function in porcine embryos by HA15 treatment may have negative effects on embryo quality and development. This study also demonstrated that GRP78 plays a crucial role in the functioning of MC4R, which releases the G protein during porcine embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geun Heo
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Song-Hee Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Dam Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu-Hyun Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Min Sim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjie Zhou
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
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Chermon D, Birk R. Predisposition of the Common MC4R rs17782313 Female Carriers to Elevated Obesity and Interaction with Eating Habits. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1996. [PMID: 38002939 PMCID: PMC10671328 DOI: 10.3390/genes14111996] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The global rise in obesity is attributed to genetic predisposition interaction with an obesogenic environment. Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) rs17782313 polymorphism has been linked to common obesity with varying influence across different populations. MC4R is a crucial player in the leptin proopiomelanocortin pathway that regulates weight hemostasis. We aimed to study MC4R rs17782313 and its interaction with eating behaviors on obesity predisposition in the Israeli population. Adults' (n = 5785, >18 y) genotype and anthropometric and demographic data were analyzed using logistic regression models adjusting for age, sex, T1DM, and T2DM. MC4R rs17782313 significantly predisposes to elevated obesity risk under the recessive and additive models (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.1-1.72, p = 0.005 and OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 1.01-1.2, p = 0.03, respectively) adjusted for confounders (age, sex, T1DM, and T2DM). Stratification by sex demonstrated that carrying the common MC4R rs17782313 is significantly associated with an elevated predisposition to obesity under the recessive model among females only (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09-1.82, p = 0.01), with an average of 0.85 BMI increment compared with wild type and one risk allele carriers. MC4R rs17782313 significantly interacted with several eating behaviors to enhance the risk of obesity. Our findings demonstrate that MC4R rs17782313 homozygous female carriers are significantly predisposed to obesity amplified by eating behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Birk
- Nutrition Department, Health Sciences Faculty, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel;
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Wu W, Chen Z, Han J, Qian L, Wang W, Lei J, Wang H. Endocrine, genetic, and microbiome nexus of obesity and potential role of postbiotics: a narrative review. Eat Weight Disord 2023; 28:84. [PMID: 37861729 PMCID: PMC10589153 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-023-01593-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a public health crisis, presenting a huge burden on health care and the economic system in both developed and developing countries. According to the WHO's latest report on obesity, 39% of adults of age 18 and above are obese, with an increase of 18% compared to the last few decades. Metabolic energy imbalance due to contemporary lifestyle, changes in gut microbiota, hormonal imbalance, inherent genetics, and epigenetics is a major contributory factor to this crisis. Multiple studies have shown that probiotics and their metabolites (postbiotics) supplementation have an effect on obesity-related effects in vitro, in vivo, and in human clinical investigations. Postbiotics such as the SCFAs suppress obesity by regulating metabolic hormones such as GLP-1, and PPY thus reducing feed intake and suppressing appetite. Furthermore, muramyl di-peptides, bacteriocins, and LPS have been tested against obesity and yielded promising results in both human and mice studies. These insights provide an overview of targetable pharmacological sites and explore new opportunities for the safer use of postbiotics against obesity in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiming Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, 215500, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengfang Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Changshu First People's Hospital, Changshu, 215501, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiani Han
- Department of Endocrinology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, 215500, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingling Qian
- Department of Endocrinology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, 215500, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanqiu Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, 215500, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiacai Lei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hangzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Huaguan Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hangzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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Wei R, Li D, Jia S, Chen Y, Wang J. MC4R in Central and Peripheral Systems. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2300035. [PMID: 37043700 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300035] [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: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Obesity has emerged as a critical and urgent health burden during the current global pandemic. Among multiple genetic causes, melanocortin receptor-4 (MC4R), involved in food intake and energy metabolism regulation through various signaling pathways, has been reported to be the lead genetic factor in severe and early onset obesity and hyperphagia disorders. Most previous studies have illustrated the roles of MC4R signaling in energy intake versus expenditure in the central system, while some evidence indicates that MC4R is also expressed in peripheral systems, such as the gut and endocrine organs. However, its physiopathological function remains poorly defined. This review aims to depict the central and peripheral roles of MC4R in energy metabolism and endocrine hormone homeostasis, the diversity of phenotypes, biased downstream signaling caused by distinct MC4R mutations, and current drug development targeting the receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Wei
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Danjie Li
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Sheng Jia
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yuhong Chen
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jiqiu Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai, 200025, China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases of the National Health Commission of the PR China, Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
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Markov DD, Dolotov OV, Grivennikov IA. The Melanocortin System: A Promising Target for the Development of New Antidepressant Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076664. [PMID: 37047638 PMCID: PMC10094937 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Major depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders, causing significant human suffering and socioeconomic loss. Since conventional antidepressants are not sufficiently effective, there is an urgent need to develop new antidepressant medications. Despite marked advances in the neurobiology of depression, the etiology and pathophysiology of this disease remain poorly understood. Classical and newer hypotheses of depression suggest that an imbalance of brain monoamines, dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPAA) and immune system, or impaired hippocampal neurogenesis and neurotrophic factors pathways are cause of depression. It is assumed that conventional antidepressants improve these closely related disturbances. The purpose of this review was to discuss the possibility of affecting these disturbances by targeting the melanocortin system, which includes adrenocorticotropic hormone-activated receptors and their peptide ligands (melanocortins). The melanocortin system is involved in the regulation of various processes in the brain and periphery. Melanocortins, including peripherally administered non-corticotropic agonists, regulate HPAA activity, exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, stimulate the levels of neurotrophic factors, and enhance hippocampal neurogenesis and neurotransmission. Therefore, endogenous melanocortins and their analogs are able to complexly affect the functioning of those body’s systems that are closely related to depression and the effects of antidepressants, thereby demonstrating a promising antidepressant potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitrii D. Markov
- National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Kurchatov Sq. 2, 123182 Moscow, Russia
| | - Oleg V. Dolotov
- National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Kurchatov Sq. 2, 123182 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor A. Grivennikov
- National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Kurchatov Sq. 2, 123182 Moscow, Russia
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Hasenmajer V, Ferrigno R, Minnetti M, Pellegrini B, Isidori AM, Lenzi A, Salerno M, Cappa M, Chan L, De Martino MC, Savage MO. Rare forms of genetic paediatric adrenal insufficiency: Excluding congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2023; 24:345-363. [PMID: 36763264 PMCID: PMC10023752 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-023-09784-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is a severe endocrine disorder characterized by insufficient glucocorticoid (GC) and/or mineralocorticoid (MC) secretion by the adrenal glands, due to impaired adrenal function (primary adrenal insufficiency, PAI) or to insufficient adrenal stimulation by pituitary ACTH (secondary adrenal insufficiency, SAI) or tertiary adrenal insufficiency due to hypothalamic dysfunction. In this review, we describe rare genetic causes of PAI with isolated GC or combined GC and MC deficiencies and we also describe rare syndromes of isolated MC deficiency. In children, the most frequent cause of PAI is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a group of adrenal disorders related to steroidogenic enzyme deficiencies, which will not be included in this review. Less frequently, several rare diseases can cause PAI, either affecting exclusively the adrenal glands or with systemic involvement. The diagnosis of these diseases is often challenging, due to the heterogeneity of their clinical presentation and to their rarity. Therefore, the current review aims to provide an overview on these rare genetic forms of paediatric PAI, offering a review of genetic and clinical features and a summary of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, promoting awareness among practitioners, and favoring early diagnosis and optimal clinical management in suspect cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Hasenmajer
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosario Ferrigno
- UOSD Auxology and Endocrinology, Department of Pediatric, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Pellegrini
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Clinica E Chirurgia, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marco Cappa
- Endocrinology Unit, Pediatric University Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Li Chan
- Endocrinology Centre, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | | | - Martin O Savage
- Endocrinology Centre, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
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Ferrigno R, Cioffi D, Pellino V, Savanelli MC, Klain A. Growth alterations in rare forms of primary adrenal insufficiency: a neglected issue in paediatric endocrinology. Endocrine 2023; 80:1-9. [PMID: 36309634 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03236-z] [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: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) is an endocrine disorder characterized by direct adrenal failure, with consequent glucocorticoid, and eventually mineralocorticoid, deficiency. In children, the main cause of PAI is congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), due to a loss of function of adrenal steroidogenic enzymes, but also rarer forms, including autoimmune polyglandular syndrome, adrenoleucodistrophy, adrenal hypoplasia congenita, familial glucocorticoid deficiency, and Allgrove's Syndrome, may be observed. In PAI children, growth alterations represent a major issue, as both inadequate and excessive glucocorticoid replacement treatment may lead to reduced growth rate and adult height impairment. However, growth abnormalities are poorly studied in rare forms of paediatric PAI, and specific studies on growth rate in these children are currently lacking. In the present review, the currently available evidence on growth alterations in children with rare PAI forms will be summarized, with a major focus on comorbidities with a potential impact on patients' growth rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Ferrigno
- UOSD di Endocrinologia e Auxologia, Dipartimento di Pediatria, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Daniela Cioffi
- UOSD di Endocrinologia e Auxologia, Dipartimento di Pediatria, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Napoli, Italy
| | - Valeria Pellino
- UOSD di Endocrinologia e Auxologia, Dipartimento di Pediatria, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Savanelli
- UOSD di Endocrinologia e Auxologia, Dipartimento di Pediatria, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonella Klain
- UOSD di Endocrinologia e Auxologia, Dipartimento di Pediatria, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Napoli, Italy
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Iliopoulos G, Daoussis D. FDA-APPROVED INDICATIONS OF ADRENOCORTICOTROPIC HORMONE (ACTH) AS A DRUG: DOES IT HAVE A PLACE IN DISEASE MANAGEMENT TODAY? CENTRAL ASIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HYPOTHESES AND ETHICS 2022. [DOI: 10.47316/cajmhe.2022.3.4.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
ACTH is a pituitary hormone important for proper function of adrenal glands, cortisol production as well as human physiology in general. It is involved in the pathogenesis of several endocrine disorders like Cushing syndrome and can be a useful diagnostic tool for diseases like primary adrenal insufficiency. Although popular as a hormone in endocrine system physiology and testing, ACTH has been used as a drug since the 1950s. Except for steroid-releasing properties, its mechanism of action involves a steroid-independent anti-inflammatory and possible immune-modulatory effect. Pharmaceutic ACTH has a wide range of indications approved by FDA and usually comes in the form of subcutaneous injections. In this narrative review, we accumulated what we considered as important data from reviews, cases and trials involving the most basic FDA-approved ACTH indications. A special emphasis was given on rheumatologic indications of ACTH. More large data studies need to be performed to assess ACTH usefulness, efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness as a drug.
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Forfar R, Hussain M, Khurana P, Cook J, Lewis S, Popat D, Jackson D, McIver E, Jerman J, Taylor D, Clark AJL, Chan LF. Identification of a novel specific small-molecule melanocortin-2-receptor antagonist. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:e220338. [PMID: 36515667 PMCID: PMC9641778 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), in conditions such as Cushing's disease and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), leads to significant morbidity. Current treatment with glucocorticoids does not adequately suppress plasma ACTH, resulting in excess adrenal androgen production. At present, there is no effective medical treatment in clinical use that would directly block the action of ACTH. Such a therapy would be of great clinical value. ACTH acts via a highly selective receptor, the melanocortin-2 receptor (MC2R) associated with its accessory protein MRAP. ACTH is the only known naturally occurring agonist for this receptor. This lack of redundancy and the high degree of ligand specificity suggest that antagonism of this receptor could provide a useful therapeutic strategy in the treatment of conditions of ACTH excess. To this end, we screened an extensive library of low-molecular-weight drug-like compounds for MC2R antagonist activity using a high-throughput homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence cAMP assay in Chinese hamster ovary cells stably co-expressing human MC2R and MRAP. Hits that demonstrated MC2R antagonist properties were counter-screened against the β2 adrenergic receptor and dose-response analysis undertaken. This led to the identification of a highly specific MC2R antagonist capable of antagonising ACTH-induced progesterone release in murine Y-1 adrenal cells and having selectivity for MC2R amongst the human melanocortin receptors. This work provides a foundation for the clinical investigation of small-molecule ACTH antagonists as therapeutic agents and proof of concept for the screening and discovery of such compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Forfar
- Centre for Therapeutics Discovery, LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, UK
| | - Mashal Hussain
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Puneet Khurana
- Centre for Therapeutics Discovery, LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, UK
| | - Jennifer Cook
- Centre for Therapeutics Discovery, LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, UK
| | - Steve Lewis
- Centre for Therapeutics Discovery, LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, UK
| | - Dillon Popat
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - David Jackson
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Ed McIver
- Centre for Therapeutics Discovery, LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, UK
| | - Jeff Jerman
- Centre for Therapeutics Discovery, LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, UK
| | - Debra Taylor
- Centre for Therapeutics Discovery, LifeArc, Accelerator Building, Open Innovation Campus, Stevenage, UK
| | - Adrian JL Clark
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Li F Chan
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to L F Chan:
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11
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Fierro-Castro C, Rotllant J, Cerdá-Reverter JM, Tort L. Loss-of-function mutations in melanocortin-1 receptor modulate immune response in teleost fishes. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 131:838-846. [PMID: 36334699 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.10.064] [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: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin system is an ancient neuroendocrine system conserved from teleosts to mammals. The melanocortin system is a set of complex neuroendocrine signaling pathways involved in numerous physiological processes, and particularly associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal (HPI) axis response. The melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) is the central melanocortin receptor involved in pigmentation in vertebrates, including fish. In order to assess the immune role of MC1R, this study used a homozygous Mc1r knockout zebrafish. Hence, skin cortisol levels, variations in the blood leucocyte population, as well as the expression levels of immune genes in various tissues of wild-type TU strain (Tübingen, Nüsslein-Volhard Lab) (WT) and homozygous mc1r knockout zebrafish (mc1rK.O.) stimulated with LPS was carried out. Results show that the mc1rK.O. mutant fish produce lower levels of cortisol in mucus and fewer macrophages in blood after exposure to LPS compared to control fish. Regarding the expression of immune genes, mutant fish show a significant increase in the expression of the anti-inflammatory interleukin il10. These results suggest that the mc1rK.O. mutant fish may follow an alternative mechanism among the immune responses, where macrophages seem to have an anti-inflammatory function, attenuating nitric oxide (NO) production and providing an advantage through the mitigation of excessive or strong inflammatory reactions. Nonetheless, a lower number of this cell type could imply a reduced phagocytic potential in the face of an infection. At the same time, lower cortisol levels in the mc1rK.O. mutant fish could be an advantage as for the lower susceptibility to stress and the physiological and metabolic consequences of high cortisol levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camino Fierro-Castro
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Barcelona, Spain; Departamento de Biología Molecular, Área de Genética, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad de León, 24071, León, Spain.
| | - Josep Rotllant
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IIM-CSIC), 36208, Vigo, Spain
| | - Jose Miguel Cerdá-Reverter
- Instituto de Acuicultura de Torre de La Sal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IATS-CSIC), 12595, Castellón, Spain
| | - Lluís Tort
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Barcelona, Spain
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Bugălă NM, Carsote M, Stoica LE, Albulescu DM, Ţuculină MJ, Preda SA, Boicea AR, Alexandru DO. New Approach to Addison Disease: Oral Manifestations Due to Endocrine Dysfunction and Comorbidity Burden. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12092080. [PMID: 36140482 PMCID: PMC9497746 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12092080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This review highlights oral anomalies with major clinical impact in Addison disease (AD), including dental health and dermatologic features, through a dual perspective: pigmentation issues and AD comorbidities with oral manifestations. Affecting 92% of AD patients, cutaneomucosal hyperpigmentation is synchronous with or precedes general manifestations by up to a decade, underlying melanocytic infiltration of the basal epidermal layer; melanophages in the superficial dermis; and, rarely, acanthosis, perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate, and hyperkeratosis. Intraoral pigmentation might be the only sign of AD; thus, early recognition is mandatory, and biopsy is helpful in selected cases. The buccal area is the most affected location; other sites are palatine arches, lips, gums, and tongue. Pigmented oral lesions are patchy or diffuse; mostly asymptomatic; and occasionally accompanied by pain, itchiness, and burn-like lesions. Pigmented lingual patches are isolated or multiple, located on dorsal and lateral areas; fungiform pigmented papillae are also reported in AD individuals. Dermoscopy examination is particularly indicated for fungal etiology; yet, it is not routinely performed. AD’s comorbidity burden includes the cluster of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome (APS) type 1 underlying AIRE gene malfunction. Chronic cutaneomucosal candidiasis (CMC), including oral CMC, represents the first sign of APS1 in 70–80% of cases, displaying autoantibodies against interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-17F ± IL-22, and probably a high mucosal concentration of interferon (IFN)-γ. CMC is prone to systemic candidiasis, representing a procarcinogenic status due to Th17 cell anomalies. In APS1, the first cause of mortality is infections (24%), followed by oral and esophageal cancers (15%). Autoimmune hypoparathyroidism (HyP) is the earliest endocrine element in APS1; a combination of CMC by the age of 5 years and dental enamel hypoplasia (the most frequent dental complication of pediatric HyP) by the age of 15 is an indication for HyP assessment. Children with HyP might experience short dental roots, enamel opacities, hypodontia, and eruption dysfunctions. Copresence of APS-related type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) enhances the risk of CMC, as well as periodontal disease (PD). Anemia-related mucosal pallor is related to DM, hypothyroidism, hypogonadism, corresponding gastroenterological diseases (Crohn’s disease also presents oral ulceration (OU), mucogingivitis, and a 2–3 times higher risk of PD; Biermer anemia might cause hyperpigmentation by itself), and rheumatologic diseases (lupus induces OU, honeycomb plaques, keratotic plaques, angular cheilitis, buccal petechial lesions, and PD). In more than half of the patients, associated vitiligo involves depigmentation of oral mucosa at different levels (palatal, gingival, alveolar, buccal mucosa, and lips). Celiac disease may manifest xerostomia, dry lips, OU, sialadenitis, recurrent aphthous stomatitis and dental enamel defects in children, a higher prevalence of caries and dentin sensitivity, and gingival bleeding. Oral pigmented lesions might provide a useful index of suspicion for AD in apparently healthy individuals, and thus an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation is useful. The spectrum of autoimmune AD comorbidities massively complicates the overall picture of oral manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narcis Mihăiţă Bugălă
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mara Carsote
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, Aviatorilor Ave. 34–38, Sector 1, 011683 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-744851934
| | - Loredana Elena Stoica
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Dana Maria Albulescu
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mihaela Jana Ţuculină
- Department of Odontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Smaranda Adelina Preda
- Department of Odontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ancuta-Ramona Boicea
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Dragoș Ovidiu Alexandru
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
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Implication of Melanocortin Receptor Genes in the Familial Comorbidity of Type 2 Diabetes and Depression. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158350. [PMID: 35955479 PMCID: PMC9369258 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The melanocortin receptors are G-protein-coupled receptors, which are essential components of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, and they mediate the actions of melanocortins (melanocyte-stimulating hormones: α-MSH, β-MSH, and γ-MSH) as well as the adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) in skin pigmentation, adrenal steroidogenesis, and stress response. Three melanocortin receptor genes (MC1R, MC2R, and MC5R) contribute to the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD), and one melanocortin receptor gene (MC4R) contributes to the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). MDD increases T2D risk in drug-naïve patients; thus, MDD and T2D commonly coexist. The five melanocortin receptor genes might confer risk for both disorders. However, they have never been investigated jointly to evaluate their potential contributing roles in the MDD-T2D comorbidity, specifically within families. In 212 Italian families with T2D and MDD, we tested 11 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the MC1R gene, 9 SNPs in MC2R, 3 SNPs in MC3R, 4 SNPs in MC4R, and 2 SNPs in MC5R. The testing used 2-point parametric linkage and linkage disequilibrium (LD) (i.e., association) analysis with four models (dominant with complete penetrance (D1), dominant with incomplete penetrance (D2), recessive with complete penetrance (R1), and recessive with incomplete penetrance (R2)). We detected significant (p ≤ 0.05) linkage and/or LD (i.e., association) to/with MDD for one SNP in MC2R (rs111734014) and one SNP in MC5R (rs2236700), and to/with T2D for three SNPs in MC1R (rs1805007 and rs201192930, and rs2228479), one SNP in MC2R (rs104894660), two SNPs in MC3R (rs3746619 and rs3827103), and one SNP in MC4R genes (Chr18-60372302). The linkage/LD/association was significant across different linkage patterns and different modes of inheritance. All reported variants are novel in MDD and T2D. This is the first study to report risk variants in MC1R, MC2R, and MC3R genes in T2D. MC2R and MC5R genes are replicated in MDD, with one novel variant each. Within our dataset, only the MC2R gene appears to confer risk for both MDD and T2D, albeit with different risk variants. To further clarity the role of the melanocortin receptor genes in MDD-T2D, these findings should be sought among other ethnicities as well.
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Mohammed I, Haris B, Hussain K. A Novel Homozygous MC2R Variant Leading to Type-1 Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency. J Endocr Soc 2022; 6:bvac058. [PMID: 35506146 PMCID: PMC9049112 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvac058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Type 1 familial glucocorticoid deficiency (FGD) (OMIM #607397) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder due to mutations in melanocortin-2-receptor (MC2R) gene encoding the G protein-coupled adrenocorticotropic (ACTH) transmembrane receptor. Objective The aim of the study is to describe 2 siblings born to a healthy consanguineous family presenting with clinical and biochemical features of FGD, harboring a novel homozygous MC2R variant. Methods Both patients are siblings born at term via normal delivery with normal birth weights. The first sibling presented with symptoms of hypoglycemia, repeated episodes of infections starting from 2 days of age. At 18 months of age, low serum cortisol was found, and he was started on hydrocortisone replacement therapy. The second sibling developed hypoglycemia on day 1 after birth, investigations revealed low serum sodium and cortisol levels and was also commenced on hydrocortisone treatment. Whole exome sequencing (WES) and in vitro functional studies on cell line transfected with wild-type and mutant plasmid clones were undertaken. Results WES revealed a novel homozygous missense mutation c.326T>A, p.Leu109Gln in the MC2R gene. In-silico prediction tools predicted the effect of this mutation to be deleterious. In vitro study using HEK293 cells transfected with MC2R wild-type and mutant clones showed a defect in protein expression and cAMP generation when stimulated with ACTH. Conclusion Homozygous semiconserved p.Leu109Gln mutation disrupts cAMP production and MC2R protein expression leading to ACTH resistance. This study provides additional evidence that this novel pathogenic variant in MC2R results in FGD phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idris Mohammed
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health & Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Basma Haris
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khalid Hussain
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
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Yu HX, Li Y, Song WJ, Wang H, Mo HL, Liu Q, Zhang XM, Jiang ZB, Wang LX. Functional characterization of melanocortin-3 receptor in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2022; 48:241-252. [PMID: 35098384 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-021-01033-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) is an important regulator of energy homeostasis and inflammation in mammals. However, its function in teleost fish needs to be further explored. In this study, we characterized rainbow trout MC3R (rtMC3R), which encoded a putative protein of 331 amino acids. Phylogenetic and chromosomal synteny analyses showed that rtMC3R was closely related to bony fishes. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) revealed that the transcripts of rtMC3R were highly expressed in the brain and muscle. The cellular function of rtMC3R was further verified by the signal-pathway-specific luciferase reporter assays. Four agonists such as α-MSH, β-MSH, ACTH (1-24), and NDP-MSH can active rtMC3R, increasing the production of intracellular cAMP and upregulating MAPK/ERK signals. Moreover, we found that rtMC3R stimulated with α-MSH and NDP-MSH can significantly inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway. This research will be helpful for further studies on the function of MC3R in rainbow trout, especially the role of energy metabolism and immune regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Xia Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei-Jia Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hao-Lin Mo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qiao Liu
- Department of Pathology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710038, China
| | - Xin-Miao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ze-Bin Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li-Xin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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Vela-Patiño S, Salazar MI, Remba-Shapiro I, Peña-Martínez E, Silva-Roman G, Andoneui-Elguera S, Ordoñez-Garcia JDJ, Taniguchi-Ponciano K, Bonifaz L, Aguilar-Flores C, Marrero-Rodríguez D, Mercado M. Neuroendocrine-immune Interface: Interactions of Two Complex Systems in Health and Disease. Arch Med Res 2022; 53:240-251. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2022.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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17
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Xu Y, Li L, Zheng J, Wang M, Jiang B, Zhai Y, Lu L, Zhang C, Kuang Z, Yang X, Jin LN, Lin G, Zhang C. Pharmacological modulation of the cAMP signaling of two isoforms of melanocortin-3 receptor by melanocortin receptor accessory proteins in the tetrapod Xenopus laevis. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:1477-1488. [PMID: 34678757 PMCID: PMC8630767 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
As a member of the seven-transmembrane rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptor superfamily, the melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) is vital for the regulation of energy homeostasis and rhythms synchronizing in mammals, and its pharmacological effect could be directly influenced by the presence of melanocortin receptor accessory proteins (MRAPs), MRAP1 and MRAP2. The tetrapod amphibian Xenopus laevis (xl) retains higher duplicated genome than extant teleosts and serves as an ideal model system for embryonic development and physiological studies. However, the melanocortin system of the Xenopus laevis has not yet been thoroughly evaluated. In this work, we performed sequence alignment, phylogenetic tree, and synteny analysis of two xlMC3Rs. Co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assay further confirmed the co-localization and in vitro interaction of xlMC3Rs with xlMRAPs on the plasma membrane. Our results demonstrated that xlMRAP2.L/S could improve α-MSH-stimulated xlMC3Rs signaling and suppress their surface expression. Moreover, xlMC3R.L showed a similar profile on the ligands and surface expression in the presence of xlMRAP1.L. Overall, the distinct pharmacological modulation of xlMC3R.L and xlMC3R.S by dual MRAP2 proteins elucidated the functional consistency of melanocortin system during genomic duplication of tetrapod vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xu
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Li
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jihong Zheng
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bopei Jiang
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Zhai
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liumei Lu
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhe Kuang
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomei Yang
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to X Yang or L-N Jin or G Lin or C Zhang: or or or
| | - Li-Na Jin
- Department of Hematology, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to X Yang or L-N Jin or G Lin or C Zhang: or or or
| | - Gufa Lin
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration of Ministry of Education, Orthopaedic Department of Tongji Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to X Yang or L-N Jin or G Lin or C Zhang: or or or
| | - Chao Zhang
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy and Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence should be addressed to X Yang or L-N Jin or G Lin or C Zhang: or or or
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Benko AL, Wright AD, Sunyer T, Kovacs WJ, Olsen NJ. Pituitary neuropeptides and B lymphocyte function. Scand J Immunol 2021; 94:e13041. [PMID: 33817820 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13041] [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: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses the accumulated evidence that pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) gene products as well as other pituitary neuropeptides derived from related genes (Proenkephalin, PENK; Prodynorphin, PDYN, and Pronociceptin, PNOC) can exert direct effects on B lymphocytes to modulate their functions. We also review the available data on receptor systems that might be involved in the transmission of such hormonal signals to B cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann L Benko
- Division of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | | | - William J Kovacs
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Nancy J Olsen
- Division of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, PA, USA
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Benko AL, Wright AD, Sunyer T, Olsen NJ, Kovacs WJ. Individual pituitary neuropeptides do not recapitulate the effects of repository corticotropin (Acthar®) on human B cells in vitro. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 353:577522. [PMID: 33601128 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577522] [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: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Repository corticotropin injection (RCI), a complex mixture of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) analogs and other pituitary peptides, has been found to suppress key aspects of gene expression and cellular function in human B lymphocytes in vitro. The present studies reveal that neither individual POMC peptides (α-MSH, ACTH1-39, ACTH1-24, β-endorphin) nor other related pituitary neuropeptides are sufficient to elicit these effects, even though specific receptors capable of transmitting signals from these peptides are expressed by human B cells. RCI's direct effects on human B cells may require complementary signals from multiple components of the preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann L Benko
- Division of Rheumatology, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
| | | | | | - Nancy J Olsen
- Division of Rheumatology, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
| | - William J Kovacs
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
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Di Dato F, Capalbo D, Mirra R, Del Vecchio Blanco F, Salerno M, Iorio R. Case Report: Neonatal Cholestasis as Early Manifestation of Primary Adrenal Insufficiency. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:767858. [PMID: 34858908 PMCID: PMC8632351 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.767858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal cholestasis (NC) may be due to multiple surgical and non-surgical causes, some of which are potentially fatal. The list of potential causes of NC is long, and the systematic search for each of them is challenging in infants, especially when overt signs of underlying disease are lacking. Endocrinological diseases as causes of NC are rare and sometimes misdiagnosed. We report the case of an infant with prolonged cholestatic jaundice due to adrenal insufficiency suspected because of a single episode of hypoglycemia occurring at birth in the absence of clinical signs of adrenal impairment. Clinical exome analysis identified a new homozygous variant in MC2R gene as a putative responsible for familial glucocorticoid deficiency (FGD). Adrenal insufficiency should always be considered in all cholestatic infants, even in the absence of specific symptoms, since early recognition and treatment is essential to prevent life-threatening events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola Di Dato
- Section of Pediatrics, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Donatella Capalbo
- Section of Pediatrics, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Rita Mirra
- Section of Pediatrics, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Mariacarolina Salerno
- Section of Pediatrics, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Iorio
- Section of Pediatrics, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Multifunctional Opioid-Derived Hybrids in Neuropathic Pain: Preclinical Evidence, Ideas and Challenges. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25235520. [PMID: 33255641 PMCID: PMC7728063 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
When the first- and second-line therapeutics used to treat neuropathic pain (NP) fail to induce efficient analgesia—which is estimated to relate to more than half of the patients—opioid drugs are prescribed. Still, the pathological changes following the nerve tissue injury, i.a. pronociceptive neuropeptide systems activation, oppose the analgesic effects of opiates, enforcing the use of relatively high therapeutic doses in order to obtain satisfying pain relief. In parallel, the repeated use of opioid agonists is associated with burdensome adverse effects due to compensatory mechanisms that arise thereafter. Rational design of hybrid drugs, in which opioid ligands are combined with other pharmacophores that block the antiopioid action of pronociceptive systems, delivers the opportunity to ameliorate the NP-oriented opioid treatment via addressing neuropathological mechanisms shared both by NP and repeated exposition to opioids. Therewith, the new dually acting drugs, tailored for the specificity of NP, can gain in efficacy under nerve injury conditions and have an improved safety profile as compared to selective opioid agonists. The current review presents the latest ideas on opioid-comprising hybrid drugs designed to treat painful neuropathy, with focus on their biological action, as well as limitations and challenges related to this therapeutic approach.
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Mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase-1 activation is involved in melanocortin-induced BDNF expression in Neuro2a neuronal cells. Neuroreport 2020; 31:1007-1014. [PMID: 32815825 PMCID: PMC7467152 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortins are neuropeptides exerting versatile functions in the nervous system. Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) is primarily expressed in the brain and is thought to be a major mediator for melanocortin. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be a crucial downstream molecule of MC4R activation, to yield neurite outgrowth, neuroregenerative, anorexigenic and other actions. In this study, we stimulated Neuro2a murine neuronal cells with an α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) analog, [Nle(4), D-Phe(7)]melanocyte-stimulating hormone (NDP-MSH). In Neuro2a cells, NDP-MSH promoted neurite outgrowth. Upon NDP-MSH administration, BDNF expression was greatly enhanced. Furthermore, this effect was effectively reversed by the MC4R antagonist, JKC-363. We found that NDP-MSH treatment activated the ERK cascade and its downstream kinase MSK1 (mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase-1). Antagonism of the MSK1 cascade by a specific inhibitor or overexpression of a defective MSK1 mutant interrupted the phosphorylation of the transcription factor cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB), blocking BDNF upregulation. In addition, MSK1 activation triggered an epigenetic alteration in histone H3 (Ser10), facilitating the expression of the BDNF gene. Taken together, our results showed that MSK1 kinase positively activates MC4R-induced BDNF expression via modulating the phosphorylation of CREB and histone H3 in Neuro2a neuronal cells.
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Structural Complexity and Plasticity of Signaling Regulation at the Melanocortin-4 Receptor. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21165728. [PMID: 32785054 PMCID: PMC7460885 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21165728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is a class A G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), essential for regulation of appetite and metabolism. Pathogenic inactivating MC4R mutations are the most frequent cause of monogenic obesity, a growing medical and socioeconomic problem worldwide. The MC4R mediates either ligand-independent or ligand-dependent signaling. Agonists such as α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) induce anorexigenic effects, in contrast to the endogenous inverse agonist agouti-related peptide (AgRP), which causes orexigenic effects by suppressing high basal signaling activity. Agonist action triggers the binding of different subtypes of G proteins and arrestins, leading to concomitant induction of diverse intracellular signaling cascades. An increasing number of experimental studies have unraveled molecular properties and mechanisms of MC4R signal transduction related to physiological and pathophysiological aspects. In addition, the MC4R crystal structure was recently determined at 2.75 Å resolution in an inactive state bound with a peptide antagonist. Underpinned by structural homology models of MC4R complexes simulating a presumably active-state conformation compared to the structure of the inactive state, we here briefly summarize the current understanding and key players involved in the MC4R switching process between different activity states. Finally, these perspectives highlight the complexity and plasticity in MC4R signaling regulation and identify gaps in our current knowledge.
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Saikia S, Bordoloi M, Sarmah R. Established and In-trial GPCR Families in Clinical Trials: A Review for Target Selection. Curr Drug Targets 2020; 20:522-539. [PMID: 30394207 DOI: 10.2174/1389450120666181105152439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The largest family of drug targets in clinical trials constitute of GPCRs (G-protein coupled receptors) which accounts for about 34% of FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved drugs acting on 108 unique GPCRs. Factors such as readily identifiable conserved motif in structures, 127 orphan GPCRs despite various de-orphaning techniques, directed functional antibodies for validation as drug targets, etc. has widened their therapeutic windows. The availability of 44 crystal structures of unique receptors, unexplored non-olfactory GPCRs (encoded by 50% of the human genome) and 205 ligand receptor complexes now present a strong foundation for structure-based drug discovery and design. The growing impact of polypharmacology for complex diseases like schizophrenia, cancer etc. warrants the need for novel targets and considering the undiscriminating and selectivity of GPCRs, they can fulfill this purpose. Again, natural genetic variations within the human genome sometimes delude the therapeutic expectations of some drugs, resulting in medication response differences and ADRs (adverse drug reactions). Around ~30 billion US dollars are dumped annually for poor accounting of ADRs in the US alone. To curb such undesirable reactions, the knowledge of established and currently in clinical trials GPCRs families can offer huge understanding towards the drug designing prospects including "off-target" effects reducing economical resource and time. The druggability of GPCR protein families and critical roles played by them in complex diseases are explained. Class A, class B1, class C and class F are generally established family and GPCRs in phase I (19%), phase II(29%), phase III(52%) studies are also reviewed. From the phase I studies, frizzled receptors accounted for the highest in trial targets, neuropeptides in phase II and melanocortin in phase III studies. Also, the bioapplications for nanoparticles along with future prospects for both nanomedicine and GPCR drug industry are discussed. Further, the use of computational techniques and methods employed for different target validations are also reviewed along with their future potential for the GPCR based drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surovi Saikia
- Natural Products Chemistry Group, CSIR North East Institute of Science & Technology, Jorhat-785006, Assam, India
| | - Manobjyoti Bordoloi
- Natural Products Chemistry Group, CSIR North East Institute of Science & Technology, Jorhat-785006, Assam, India
| | - Rajeev Sarmah
- Allied Health Sciences, Assam Down Town University, Panikhaiti, Guwahati 781026, Assam, India
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Sarvestani FS, Zare MA, Saki F, Koohpeyma F, Al-Abdullah IH, Azarpira N. The effect of human wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells on MC4R, NPY, and LEPR gene expression levels in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2020; 23:214-223. [PMID: 32405365 PMCID: PMC7211357 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2019.39582.9387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease resulting from inflammatory destruction of islets β-cells. Nowadays, progress in cell therapy, especially mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) proposes numerous potential remedies for T1D. We aimed to investigate the combination therapeutic effect of these cells with insulin and metformin on neuropeptide Y, melanocortin-4 receptor, and leptin receptor genes expression in TID. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundreds male rats were randomly divided into seven groups: the control, diabetes, insulin (Ins.), insulin+metformin (Ins.Met.), Wharton's Jelly-derived MSCs (WJ-MSCs), insulin+metformin+WJ-MSCs (Ins.Met.MSCs), and insulin+WJ-MSCs (Ins.MSCs). Treatment was performed from the first day after diagnosis as diabetes. Groups of the recipient WJ-MSCs were intraportally injected with 2× 10⁶ MSCs/kg at the 7th and 28th days of study. Fasting blood sugar was monitored and tissues and genes analysis were performed. RESULTS The blood glucose levels were slightly decreased in all treatment groups within 20th and 45th days compared to the diabetic group. The C-peptide level enhanced in these groups compared to the diabetic group, but this increment in Ins.MSCs group on the 45th days was higher than other groups. The expression level of melanocortin-4 receptor and leptin receptor genes meaningfully up-regulated in the treatment groups, while the expression of neuropeptide Y significantly down-regulated in the treatment group on both times of study. CONCLUSION Our data exhibit that infusion of MSCs and its combination therapy with insulin might ameliorate diabetes signs by changing the amount of leptin and subsequent changes in the expression of neuropeptide Y and melanocortin-4 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Ali Zare
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Forough Saki
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farhad Koohpeyma
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ismail H Al-Abdullah
- Department of Translational Research and Cellular Therapeutics, Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, USA
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Heshmatzad K, Mahdieh N, Rabbani A, Didban A, Rabbani B. The Genetic Perspective of Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency: In Silico Analysis of Two Novel Variants. Int J Endocrinol 2020; 2020:2190508. [PMID: 32952553 PMCID: PMC7481914 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2190508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial glucocorticoid deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder which belongs to a group of primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and is mainly caused by mutations in the MC2R and MRAP genes. A comprehensive search was conducted to find the reported variants of MC2R and MRAP genes. In silico pathogenic analysis was performed for the reported variants. PCR amplification and sequencing were performed for three patients. Structural analysis, modeling, and interactome analysis were applied to characterize novel MC2R variants and their proteins. About 80% of MC2R-related cases showed the clinical symptoms which were diagnosed at <2 years old. 107 patients had MC2R mutations (85 homozygotes, 21 compound heterozygotes, and 1 simple heterozygote). 59 variants were found in the MC2R gene. Four mutations were responsible for half of patients. 39 homozygous patients had MRAP mutations; 14 variants were determined in the MRAP gene. Nine proteins were predicted by STRING to associate with the studied proteins. Two novel MC2R variants, c.128T > G (p.Leu43Arg) and c.251T > A (p.Ile84Asn), were found in two patients at the age of above and below 2 years, respectively. Mutations in MC2R and MRAP genes are the main cause of FGD. Genetic studies and in silico analysis will help to confirm the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katayoun Heshmatzad
- Growth and Development Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nejat Mahdieh
- Growth and Development Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Rabbani
- Growth and Development Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolah Didban
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Endocrinologist, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Bahareh Rabbani
- Growth and Development Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Novoselova TV, King PJ, Guasti L, Metherell LA, Clark AJL, Chan LF. ACTH signalling and adrenal development: lessons from mouse models. Endocr Connect 2019; 8:R122-R130. [PMID: 31189126 PMCID: PMC6652236 DOI: 10.1530/ec-19-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin-2-receptor (MC2R), also known as the ACTH receptor, is a critical component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The importance of MC2R in adrenal physiology is exemplified by the condition familial glucocorticoid deficiency (FGD), a potentially fatal disease characterised by isolated cortisol deficiency. MC2R mutations cause ~25% of cases. The discovery of a MC2R accessory protein MRAP, mutations of which account for ~20% of FGD, has provided insight into MC2R trafficking and signalling. MRAP is a single transmembrane domain accessory protein highly expressed in the adrenal gland and essential for MC2R expression and function. Mouse models helped elucidate the action of ACTH. The Mc2r-knockout (Mc2r - / - ) mice was the first mouse model developed to have adrenal insufficiency with deficiencies in glucocorticoid, mineralocorticoid and catecholamines. We recently reported the generation of the Mrap - / - mice which better mimics the human FGD phenotype with isolated glucocorticoid deficiency alone. The adrenal glands of adult Mrap - / - mice were grossly dysmorphic with a thickened capsule, deranged zonation and deranged WNT4/beta-catenin and sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway signalling. Collectively, these mouse models of FGD highlight the importance of ACTH and MRAP in adrenal progenitor cell regulation, cortex maintenance and zonation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana V Novoselova
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Peter J King
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Louise A Metherell
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Adrian J L Clark
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Li F Chan
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to L F Chan:
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MRAP2 regulates endometrial receptivity and function. Gene 2019; 703:7-12. [PMID: 30951854 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A successful embryo implantation depends on the synchronization between a competent blastocyst and a receptive endometrium. Recently, potential modulators of endometrial receptivity (OVGP1, MRAP2, ZCCHC12, and HAP1) have been reported likely with a functional role during embryo implantation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the gene expression of these genes in the endometrium of infertile women. Eighteen endometrial biopsies, during secretory lutheal phase, were recruited from women with unexplained infertility and women who cannot conceive due to their partners' fertility problems. qRT-PCR was carried out to evaluate MRAP2, OVGP1, ZCCHC12 and HAP1 gene expression. MRAP2 expression was also detected by western blot and it was localized by immunohistochemistry. Morphological analysis was performed by light microscopy. MRAP2 was significantly up-regulated in study vs. control group. Western blot analysis confirmed the observed MRAP2 up-expression. MRAP2 resulted mainly localized in the epithelial cells of uterine glands. Morphological analysis displayed that the epithelium of the uterine glands undergo hypertrophy in women with unexplained infertility in respect to women with male infertility factor. MRAP2 could be considered a mediator of endometrial receptivity likely acting on endometrial stability by binding to MCRs and PKR1.
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Abali ZY, Yesil G, Kirkgoz T, Kaygusuz SB, Eltan M, Turan S, Bereket A, Guran T. Evaluation of growth and puberty in a child with a novel TBX19 gene mutation and review of the literature. Hormones (Athens) 2019; 18:229-236. [PMID: 30747411 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-019-00096-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biallelic mutations in the TBX19 gene cause severe early-onset adrenal failure due to isolated ACTH deficiency (IAD). This rare disease is characterized by low plasma ACTH and cortisol levels, with normal secretion of other pituitary hormones. Herein, we report a patient with IAD due to a novel TBX19 gene mutation, who is also of tall stature. CASE REPORT A 48/12-year-old girl was presented with loss of consciousness due to hypoglycemia. The patient was born at term with a birth weight of 3800 g. Her parents were first-degree cousins. She had a history of several hospitalizations for recurrent seizures, abdominal pain, and vomiting. At presentation, her weight and height were + 1.8 and + 2.2 SDS, respectively. Serum glucose was 25 mg/dl (1.4 mmol/L), with normal sodium, potassium, and insulin concentrations. The child was hypocortisolemic (0.1 μg/dl), and ACTH levels were extremely low (< 5.0 pg/ml). A diagnosis of IAD was made and hydrocortisone treatment was started. Hypoglycemic episodes, seizures, and recurrent gastrointestinal complaints disappeared after hydrocortisone replacement. Magnetic resonance imaging of the pituitary was normal. Whole exome sequencing revealed a novel homozygous c.302G > A (W101*) mutation in the TBX19 gene. CONCLUSION We report a new mutation in the TBX19 gene in a patient with isolated ACTH deficiency. While overgrowth is a known feature of some types of adrenal insufficiencies, including MC2R gene defects and POMC deficiency, it may be a novel feature for TPIT deficiency, as in our patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Yavas Abali
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gozde Yesil
- Department of Medical Genetics, Bezmialem Vakıf University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tarik Kirkgoz
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sare Betul Kaygusuz
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Eltan
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serap Turan
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Bereket
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tulay Guran
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Maisto R, Oltra M, Vidal-Gil L, Martínez-Gil N, Sancho-Pellúz J, Filippo CD, Rossi S, D Amico M, Barcia JM, Romero FJ. ARPE-19-derived VEGF-containing exosomes promote neovascularization in HUVEC: the role of the melanocortin receptor 5. Cell Cycle 2019; 18:413-424. [PMID: 30739530 PMCID: PMC6422460 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2019.1568745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
ARPE-19 retinal pigment epithelial cells cultured in a medium containing 35 mM D-glucose led to an augmented ROS formation and release of vascular endothelial factor (VEGF)-containing exosomes compared to ARPE-19 cells cultured in a medium containing 5 mM D-glucose (standard medium). Exposing these cells to the melanocortin 5 receptor agonist (MCR5) PG-901 (10-10M), for 9 d reduced ROS generation, the number of exosomes released and their VEGF content. In contrast, incubating the cells with the melanocortin receptor MCR1 agonist BMS-470539 (10-5 M) or with the mixed MCR3/4 agonist MTII (0.30 nmol) did not produce any significant decrease in ROS levels. ARPE-19-derived VEGF-containing exosomes promoted neovascularization in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), an effect that was markedly reduced by PG-901 (10-10M) but not by the MCR3/4 agonist MTII (0.30 nmol) or the MCR1 agonist BMS-470539 (10-5 M). The MCR5-related action in the ARPE-19 cells was accompanied by the increased expression of two coupled factors, cytochrome p4502E1 (CYP2E1) and nuclear factor kappa b (Nf-κB). These are both involved in high glucose signalling, in ROS generation and, interestingly, were reduced by the MCR5 agonist in the ARPE-19 cells. Altogether, these data suggest that MCR5 is a modulator of the responses stimulated by glucose in ARPE-19 cells, which might possibly be translated into a modulation of the retinal pigment epithelium response to diabetes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maisto
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , Università degli studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli , Napoli , Italy
| | - María Oltra
- b Neurobiología y Neurofisiología, Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Católica de Valencia "San Vicente Mártir" , Valencia , Spain
| | - Lorena Vidal-Gil
- b Neurobiología y Neurofisiología, Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Católica de Valencia "San Vicente Mártir" , Valencia , Spain
| | - Natalia Martínez-Gil
- c Department of Basic Medical Sciences , Universidad Europea de Valencia , Valencia , Spain
| | - Javier Sancho-Pellúz
- b Neurobiología y Neurofisiología, Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Católica de Valencia "San Vicente Mártir" , Valencia , Spain
| | - Clara Di Filippo
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , Università degli studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli , Napoli , Italy
| | - Settimio Rossi
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , Università degli studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli , Napoli , Italy
| | - Michele D Amico
- a Department of Experimental Medicine , Università degli studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli , Napoli , Italy
| | - Jorge Miguel Barcia
- b Neurobiología y Neurofisiología, Facultad de Medicina , Universidad Católica de Valencia "San Vicente Mártir" , Valencia , Spain
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Abuduxikuer K, Li ZD, Xie XB, Li YC, Zhao J, Wang JS. Novel Melanocortin 2 Receptor Variant in a Chinese Infant With Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency Type 1, Case Report and Review of Literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:359. [PMID: 31244773 PMCID: PMC6563654 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial glucocorticoid deficiency type 1 (FGD1) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the melanocortin 2 receptor (MC2R) gene, characterized by a low or undetectable serum cortisol level and a high adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level. Clinical manifestations include hypoglycemia, seizure, skin hyperpigmentation, hyperbilirubinemia, cholestasis, and a tall stature. Some dysmorphic features such as, a prominent forehead, hypertelorism, a broad nasal bridge, and small tapering fingers, have been reported. Children with FGD1 may have other isolated endocrine abnormalities. To date, no patient with FGD1 has been reported in mainland China. Here we report on a Chinese patient with FGD1 having a novel MC2R gene variant, a mild transverse palm crease, hypertelorism, and subtle/transient endocrine abnormalities relating to all three zones of the adrenal cortex and thyroid gland. We also reviewed cases with dysmorphic features or additional endocrine abnormalities.
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Bruschetta G, Kim JD, Diano S, Chan LF. Overexpression of melanocortin 2 receptor accessory protein 2 (MRAP2) in adult paraventricular MC4R neurons regulates energy intake and expenditure. Mol Metab 2018; 18:79-87. [PMID: 30352741 PMCID: PMC6308034 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2018.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Melanocortin 2 receptor accessory protein 2 (MRAP2) has a critical role in energy homeostasis. Although MRAP2 has been shown to regulates a number of GPCRs involved in metabolism, the key neurons responsible for the phenotype of gross obesity in MRAP2 deficient animals are unclear. Furthermore, to date, all the murine MRAP2 models involve the prenatal deletion of MRAP2. Methods To target Melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R)-expressing neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), we performed stereotaxic surgery using AAV to selectively overexpress MRAP2 postnatally in adult Mc4r-cre mice. We assessed energy homeostasis, glucose metabolism, core body temperature, and response to MC3R/MC4R agonist MTII. Results Mc4r-crePVN-MRAP2 female mice on a standard chow diet had less age-related weight gain and improved glucose/insulin profile compared to control Mc4r-crePVN-GFP mice. These changes were associated with a reduction in food intake and increased energy expenditure. In contrast, Mc4r-crePVN-MRAP2 male mice showed no improvement on a chow diet, but improvement of energy and glucose metabolism was observed following high fat diet (HFD) feeding. In addition, an increase in core body temperature was found in both females fed on standard chow diet and males fed on HFD. Mc4r-crePVN-MRAP2 female and male mice showed increased neuronal activation in the PVN compared to controls, with further increase in neuronal activation post MTII treatment in females. Conclusions Our data indicate a site-specific role for MRAP2 in PVN MC4R-expressing neurons in potentiating MC4R neuronal activation at baseline conditions in the regulation of food intake and energy expenditure. Postnatal overexpression of MRAP2 regulates energy balance, thermogenesis and glucose metabolism. Overexpression of MRAP2 in MC4R expressing neurons increases PVN neuronal activation. There is a sex difference in extent of metabolic protection, with a more marked lean phenotype in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Bruschetta
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jung Dae Kim
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Sabrina Diano
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA; Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Li F Chan
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to present current information on genes underlying severe obesity, with the main emphasis on the three genes LEP, LEPR and MC4R. RECENT FINDINGS There is a substantial amount of evidence that variants in at least ten different genes are the cause of severe monogenic obesity. The majority of these are involved in the leptin-melanocortin signalling pathway. Due to the frequency of some of the identified variants, it is clear that monogenic variants also make a significant contribution to common obesity. The artificial distinction between rare monogenic obesity and common polygenic obesity is now obsolete with the identification of MC4R variants of strong effect in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una Fairbrother
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, North Campus, 166-220 Holloway Road, London, N7 8DB, UK
| | - Elliot Kidd
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, North Campus, 166-220 Holloway Road, London, N7 8DB, UK
| | - Tanya Malagamuwa
- Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, Tooting, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Andrew Walley
- Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, Tooting, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
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