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Iranmanesh Z, Dehestani M, Esmaeili-Mahani S. Discovering novel targets of abscisic acid using computational approaches. Comput Biol Chem 2024; 112:108157. [PMID: 39047594 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2024.108157] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA) is a crucial plant hormone that is naturally produced in various mammalian tissues and holds significant potential as a therapeutic molecule in humans. ABA is selected for this study due to its known roles in essential human metabolic processes, such as glucose homeostasis, immune responses, cardiovascular system, and inflammation regulation. Despite its known importance, the molecular mechanism underlying ABA's action remain largely unexplored. This study employed computational techniques to identify potential human ABA receptors. We screened 64 candidate molecules using online servers and performed molecular docking to assess binding affinity and interaction types with ABA. The stability and dynamics of the best complexes were investigated using molecular dynamics simulation over a 100 ns time period. Root mean square fluctuations (RMSF), root mean square deviation (RMSD), solvent-accessible surface area (SASA), radius of gyration (Rg), free energy landscape (FEL), and principal component analysis (PCA) were analyzed. Next, the molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM-PBSA) method was employed to calculate the binding energies of the complexes based on the simulated data. Our study successfully pinpointed four key receptors responsible for ABA signaling (androgen receptor, glucocorticoid receptor, mineralocorticoid receptor, and retinoic acid receptor beta) that have a strong affinity for binding with ABA and remained structurally stable throughout the simulations. The simulations with Hydralazine as an unrelated ligand were conducted to validate the specificity of the identified receptors for ABA. The findings of this study can contribute to further experimental validation and a better understanding of how ABA functions in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Iranmanesh
- Department of Chemistry, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Dehestani
- Department of Chemistry, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.
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Gharib A, Marquez C, Meseguer-Beltran M, Sanchez-Sarasua S, Sanchez-Perez AM. Abscisic acid, an evolutionary conserved hormone: Biosynthesis, therapeutic and diagnostic applications in mammals. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 229:116521. [PMID: 39251140 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116521] [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: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA), a phytohormone traditionally recognized for its role in plant stress responses, has recently emerged as a significant player in mammalian defense mechanisms. Like plants, various mammalian cell types synthesize ABA in response to specific health challenges, although the precise pathways remain not fully elucidated. ABA is associated with the regulation of inflammation and insulin signaling, prompting extensive research into its potential as a therapeutic agent for various diseases. ABA exerts its effects through its receptors, particularly PPAR-γ and LANCL-2, which serve as signaling hubs regulating numerous pathways. Through these interactions, ABA profoundly impacts mammalian health, and new ABA targets continue to be identified. Numerous studies in animal models demonstrate ABA's benefit in managing conditions such as neurological and psychiatric disorders, cancer, and malaria infections, all of which involve significant inflammatory dysregulation. In this manuscript we review the studies covering ABA synthesis and release in cell cultures, the signaling pathways regulated by ABA, and how these impact health in preclinical models. Furthermore, we highlight recent research suggesting that measuring ABA levels in human body fluids could serve as a useful biomarker for pathological conditions, providing insights into disease progression and treatment efficacy. This comprehensive review outlines the current understanding of ABA in mammalian pathophysiology, identifying gaps in knowledge, particularly concerning ABA biosynthesis and metabolism in mammals. In addition, this study emphasizes the need for clinical trials to validate the effectiveness of ABA-based therapies and its reliability as a biomarker for various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Gharib
- Neurobiotecnologia Group, Institute of Advanced Materiales (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avda. de Vicent Sos Baynat, S/n, 12071 Castelló de La Plana, Spain; Department of Laboratory Sciences, Borujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd, Iran
| | - Carlee Marquez
- Neurobiotecnologia Group, Institute of Advanced Materiales (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avda. de Vicent Sos Baynat, S/n, 12071 Castelló de La Plana, Spain
| | - Maria Meseguer-Beltran
- Neurobiotecnologia Group, Institute of Advanced Materiales (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avda. de Vicent Sos Baynat, S/n, 12071 Castelló de La Plana, Spain
| | - Sandra Sanchez-Sarasua
- Neurobiotecnologia Group, Institute of Advanced Materiales (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avda. de Vicent Sos Baynat, S/n, 12071 Castelló de La Plana, Spain; CNRS UMR 5293, Institut Des Maladies Neurodégénératives, Centre Paul Broca-Nouvelle Aquitaine, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.
| | - Ana M Sanchez-Perez
- Neurobiotecnologia Group, Institute of Advanced Materiales (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avda. de Vicent Sos Baynat, S/n, 12071 Castelló de La Plana, Spain.
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Scarano N, Di Palma F, Origlia N, Musumeci F, Schenone S, Spinelli S, Passalacqua M, Zocchi E, Sturla L, Cichero E, Cavalli A. New Insights into the LANCL2- ABA Binding Mode towards the Evaluation of New LANCL Agonists. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2754. [PMID: 38140095 PMCID: PMC10747503 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The lanthionine synthetase C-like (LANCL) proteins include LANCL2, which is expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and in peripheral tissues. LANCL2 exhibits glutathionylation activity and is involved in the neutralization of reactive electrophiles. Several studies explored LANCL2 activation as a validated pharmacological target for diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease. In this context, LANCL2 was found to bind the natural product abscisic acid (ABA), whose pre-clinical effectiveness in different inflammatory diseases was reported in the literature. More recently, LANCL2 attracted more attention as a valuable resource in the field of neurodegenerative disorders. ABA was found to regulate neuro-inflammation and synaptic plasticity to enhance learning and memory, exhibiting promising neuroprotective effects. Up until now, a limited number of LANCL2 ligands are known; among them, BT-11 is the only compound patented and investigated for its anti-inflammatory properties. To guide the design of novel putative LANCL2 agonists, a computational study including molecular docking and long molecular dynamic (MD) simulations of both ABA and BT-11 was carried out. The results pointed out the main LANCL2 ligand chemical features towards the following virtual screening of a novel putative LANCL2 agonist (AR-42). Biochemical assays on rat H9c2 cardiomyocytes showed a similar, LANCL2-mediated stimulation by BT-11 and by AR-42 of the mitochondrial proton gradient and of the transcriptional activation of the AMPK/PGC-1α/Sirt1 axis, the master regulator of mitochondrial function, effects that are previously observed with ABA. These results may allow the development of LANCL2 agonists for the treatment of mitochondrial dysfunction, a common feature of chronic and degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Scarano
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.S.); (F.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Francesco Di Palma
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy; (F.D.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Nicola Origlia
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Francesca Musumeci
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.S.); (F.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Silvia Schenone
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.S.); (F.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Sonia Spinelli
- Laboratorio di Nefrologia Molecolare, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy;
| | - Mario Passalacqua
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.P.); (E.Z.)
| | - Elena Zocchi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.P.); (E.Z.)
| | - Laura Sturla
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy; (M.P.); (E.Z.)
| | - Elena Cichero
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (N.S.); (F.M.); (S.S.)
| | - Andrea Cavalli
- Computational & Chemical Biology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy; (F.D.P.); (A.C.)
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Liao P, Wu QY, Li S, Hu KB, Liu HL, Wang HY, Long ZY, Lu XM, Wang YT. The ameliorative effects and mechanisms of abscisic acid on learning and memory. Neuropharmacology 2023; 224:109365. [PMID: 36462635 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109365] [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: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA), a conserved hormone existing in plants and animals, not only regulates blood glucose and inflammation but also has good therapeutic effects on obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis and inflammatory diseases in animals. Studies have shown that exogenous ABA can pass the blood-brain barrier and inhibit neuroinflammation, promote neurogenesis, enhance synaptic plasticity, improve learning, memory and cognitive ability in the central nervous system. At the same time, ABA plays a crucial role in significant improvement of Alzheimer's disease, depression, and anxiety. Here we review the previous research progress of ABA on the physiological effects and clinical application in the related diseases. By summarizing the biological functions of ABA, we aim to reveal the possible mechanisms of ameliorative function of ABA on learning and memory, to provide a theoretical basis that ABA as a novel and safe drug improves learning memory and cognitive impairment in central system diseases such as aging, neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Liao
- College of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China; State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Qing-Yun Wu
- College of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China
| | - Sen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Kai-Bin Hu
- College of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China
| | - Hui-Lin Liu
- College of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China
| | - Hai-Yan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Zai-Yun Long
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xiu-Min Lu
- College of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China.
| | - Yong-Tang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
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Spinelli S, Cossu V, Passalacqua M, Hansen JB, Guida L, Magnone M, Sambuceti G, Marini C, Sturla L, Zocchi E. The ABA/LANCL1/2 Hormone/Receptor System Controls Adipocyte Browning and Energy Expenditure. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043489. [PMID: 36834900 PMCID: PMC9966313 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The abscisic acid (ABA)/LANC-like protein 1/2 (LANCL1/2) hormone/receptor system regulates glucose uptake and oxidation, mitochondrial respiration, and proton gradient dissipation in myocytes. Oral ABA increases glucose uptake and the transcription of adipocyte browning-related genes in rodent brown adipose tissue (BAT). The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the ABA/LANCL system in human white and brown adipocyte thermogenesis. Immortalized human white and brown preadipocytes, virally infected to overexpress or silence LANCL1/2, were differentiated in vitro with or without ABA, and transcriptional and metabolic targets critical for thermogenesis were explored. The overexpression of LANCL1/2 increases, and their combined silencing conversely reduces mitochondrial number, basal, and maximal respiration rates; proton gradient dissipation; and the transcription of uncoupling genes and of receptors for thyroid and adrenergic hormones, both in brown and in white adipocytes. The transcriptional enhancement of receptors for browning hormones also occurs in BAT from ABA-treated mice, lacking LANCL2 but overexpressing LANCL1. The signaling pathway downstream of the ABA/LANCL system includes AMPK, PGC-1α, Sirt1, and the transcription factor ERRα. The ABA/LANCL system controls human brown and "beige" adipocyte thermogenesis, acting upstream of a key signaling pathway regulating energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and thermogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Spinelli
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Vanessa Cossu
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, U.O. Medicina Nucleare, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Mario Passalacqua
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Jacob B. Hansen
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lucrezia Guida
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Mirko Magnone
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Gianmario Sambuceti
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, U.O. Medicina Nucleare, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Cecilia Marini
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, U.O. Medicina Nucleare, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology (IBFM), National Research Council (CNR), 20054 Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Sturla
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Elena Zocchi
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-01-0353-8161
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The ABA/LANCL Hormone/Receptor System in the Control of Glycemia, of Cardiomyocyte Energy Metabolism, and in Neuroprotection: A New Ally in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021199. [PMID: 36674711 PMCID: PMC9863406 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA), long known as a plant stress hormone, is present and functionally active in organisms other than those pertaining to the land plant kingdom, including cyanobacteria, fungi, algae, protozoan parasites, lower Metazoa, and mammals. The ancient, cross-kingdom role of this stress hormone allows ABA and its signaling pathway to control cell responses to environmental stimuli in diverse organisms such as marine sponges, higher plants, and humans. Recent advances in our knowledge about the physiological role of ABA and of its mammalian receptors in the control of energy metabolism and mitochondrial function in myocytes, adipocytes, and neuronal cells allow us to foresee therapeutic applications for ABA in the fields of pre-diabetes, diabetes, and cardio- and neuro-protection. Vegetal extracts titrated in their ABA content have shown both efficacy and tolerability in preliminary clinical studies. As the prevalence of glucose intolerance, diabetes, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases is steadily increasing in both industrialized and rapidly developing countries, new and cost-efficient therapeutics to combat these ailments are much needed to ensure disease-free aging for the current and future working generations.
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Abscisic Acid Improves Insulin Action on Glycemia in Insulin-Deficient Mouse Models of Type 1 Diabetes. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12060523. [PMID: 35736456 PMCID: PMC9227369 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12060523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA), a plant hormone, has recently been shown to play a role in glycemia regulation in mammals, by stimulating insulin-independent glucose uptake and metabolism in skeletal muscle. The aim of this study was to test whether ABA could improve glycemic control in a murine model of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Mice were rendered diabetic with streptozotocin and the effect of ABA administration, alone or with insulin, was tested on glycemia. Diabetic mice treated with a single oral dose of ABA and low-dose subcutaneous insulin showed a significantly reduced glycemia profile compared with controls treated with insulin alone. In diabetic mice treated for four weeks with ABA, the effect of low-dose insulin on the glycemia profile after glucose load was significantly improved, and transcription both of the insulin receptor, and of glycolytic enzymes in muscle, was increased. Moreover, a significantly increased transcription and protein expression of AMPK, PGC1-α, and GLUT4 was observed in the skeletal muscle from diabetic mice treated with ABA, compared with untreated controls. ABA supplementation in conjunction with insulin holds the promise of reducing the dose of insulin required in T1D, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia, and improving muscle insulin sensitivity and glucose consumption.
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Spinelli S, Begani G, Guida L, Magnone M, Galante D, D'Arrigo C, Scotti C, Iamele L, De Jonge H, Zocchi E, Sturla L. LANCL1 binds abscisic acid and stimulates glucose transport and mitochondrial respiration in muscle cells via the AMPK/PGC-1α/Sirt1 pathway. Mol Metab 2021; 53:101263. [PMID: 34098144 PMCID: PMC8237609 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2021.101263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Abscisic acid (ABA) is a plant hormone also present and active in animals. In mammals, ABA regulates blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin-independent glucose uptake and metabolism in adipocytes and myocytes through its receptor LANCL2. The objective of this study was to investigate whether another member of the LANCL protein family, LANCL1, also behaves as an ABA receptor and, if so, which functional effects are mediated by LANCL1. METHODS ABA binding to human recombinant LANCL1 was explored by equilibrium-binding experiments with [3H]ABA, circular dichroism, and surface plasmon resonance. Rat L6 myoblasts overexpressing either LANCL1 or LANCL2, or silenced for the expression of both proteins, were used to investigate the basal and ABA-stimulated transport of a fluorescent glucose analog (NBDG) and the signaling pathway downstream of the LANCL proteins using Western blot and qPCR analysis. Finally, glucose tolerance and sensitivity to ABA were compared in LANCL2-/- and wild-type (WT) siblings. RESULTS Human recombinant LANCL1 binds ABA with a Kd between 1 and 10 μM, depending on the assay (i.e., in a concentration range that lies between the low and high-affinity ABA binding sites of LANCL2). In L6 myoblasts, LANCL1 and LANCL2 similarly, i) stimulate both basal and ABA-triggered NBDG uptake (4-fold), ii) activate the transcription and protein expression of the glucose transporters GLUT4 and GLUT1 (4-6-fold) and the signaling proteins AMPK/PGC-1α/Sirt1 (2-fold), iii) stimulate mitochondrial respiration (5-fold) and the expression of the skeletal muscle (SM) uncoupling proteins sarcolipin (3-fold) and UCP3 (12-fold). LANCL2-/- mice have a reduced glucose tolerance compared to WT. They spontaneously overexpress LANCL1 in the SM and respond to chronic ABA treatment (1 μg/kg body weight/day) with an improved glycemia response to glucose load and an increased SM transcription of GLUT4 and GLUT1 (20-fold) of the AMPK/PGC-1α/Sirt1 pathway and sarcolipin, UCP3, and NAMPT (4- to 6-fold). CONCLUSIONS LANCL1 behaves as an ABA receptor with a somewhat lower affinity for ABA than LANCL2 but with overlapping effector functions: stimulating glucose uptake and the expression of muscle glucose transporters and mitochondrial uncoupling and respiration via the AMPK/PGC-1α/Sirt1 pathway. Receptor redundancy may have been advantageous in animal evolution, given the role of the ABA/LANCL system in the insulin-independent stimulation of cell glucose uptake and energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Spinelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Giulia Begani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Guida
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Mirko Magnone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132, Genova, Italy
| | - Denise Galante
- Institute for Macromolecular Studies, National Research Council, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genova, Italy
| | - Cristina D'Arrigo
- Institute for Macromolecular Studies, National Research Council, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genova, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Immunology and General Pathology Unit, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100, Pavia, Italy; Ardis Srl, Via Taramelli 24, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Luisa Iamele
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Immunology and General Pathology Unit, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100, Pavia, Italy; Ardis Srl, Via Taramelli 24, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hugo De Jonge
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Immunology and General Pathology Unit, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100, Pavia, Italy; Ardis Srl, Via Taramelli 24, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Zocchi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132, Genova, Italy.
| | - Laura Sturla
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV 1, 16132, Genova, Italy
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Tao Y, Chen L, Pan M, Zhu F, Zhu D. Tailored Biosensors for Drug Screening, Efficacy Assessment, and Toxicity Evaluation. ACS Sens 2021; 6:3146-3162. [PMID: 34516080 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.1c01600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Biosensors have been flourishing in the field of drug discovery with pronounced developments in the past few years. They facilitate the screening and discovery of innovative drugs. However, there is still a lack of critical reviews that compare the merits and shortcomings of these biosensors from a pharmaceutical point of view. This contribution presents a critical and up-to-date overview on the recent progress of tailored biosensors, including surface plasmon resonance, fluorescent, photoelectrochemical, and electrochemical systems with emphasis on their mechanisms and applications in drug screening, efficacy assessment, and toxicity evaluation. Multiple functional nanomaterials have also been incorporated into the biosensors. Representative examples of each type of biosensors are discussed in terms of design strategy, response mechanism, and potential applications. In the end, we also compare the results and summarize the major insights gained from the works, demonstrating the challenges and prospects of biosensors-assisted drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Tao
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Lin Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Meiling Pan
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Fei Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Dong Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
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Jeon SH, Kim N, Ju YJ, Gee MS, Lee D, Lee JK. Phytohormone Abscisic Acid Improves Memory Impairment and Reduces Neuroinflammation in 5xFAD Mice by Upregulation of LanC-Like Protein 2. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228425. [PMID: 33182586 PMCID: PMC7697599 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a type of dementia, is the most common neurodegenerative disease in the elderly. Neuroinflammation caused by deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) is one of the most important pathological causes in AD. The isoprenoid phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) has recently been found in mammals and was shown to be an endogenous hormone, acting in stress conditions. Although ABA has been associated with anti-inflammatory effects and reduced cognitive impairment in several studies, the mechanisms of ABA in AD has not been ascertained clearly. To investigate the clearance of Aβ and anti-inflammatory effects of ABA, we used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunoassay. ABA treatment inhibited Aβ deposition and neuroinflammation, thus resulting in improvement of memory impairment in 5xFAD mice. Interestingly, these effects were not associated with activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, well known as a molecular target of ABA, but related with modulation of the LanC-like protein 2 (LANCL2), known as a receptor of ABA. Taken together, our results indicate that ABA reduced Aβ deposition, neuroinflammation, and memory impairment, which is the most characteristic pathology of AD, via the upregulation of LANCL2. These data suggest that ABA might be a candidate for therapeutics for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Ho Jeon
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea; (S.H.J.); (Y.-J.J.); (M.S.G.)
| | - Namkwon Kim
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea; (N.K.); (D.L.)
| | - Yeon-Joo Ju
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea; (S.H.J.); (Y.-J.J.); (M.S.G.)
| | - Min Sung Gee
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea; (S.H.J.); (Y.-J.J.); (M.S.G.)
| | - Danbi Lee
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea; (N.K.); (D.L.)
| | - Jong Kil Lee
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea; (S.H.J.); (Y.-J.J.); (M.S.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-961-9590; Fax: +82-2-961-9580
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11
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Akella M, Malla R. Molecular modeling and in vitro study on pyrocatechol as potential pharmacophore of CD151 inhibitor. J Mol Graph Model 2020; 100:107681. [PMID: 32738620 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmgm.2020.107681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
CD151 has been recognized as a prognostic marker, the therapeutic target of breast cancers, but less explored for small molecule inhibitors due to lack of a validated model. The 3-D structure of CD151 large extracellular loop (LEL) was modeled using the LOMETS server and validated by the Ramachandran plot. The validated structure was employed for molecular docking and structure-based pharmacophore analysis. Druglikeness was evaluated by the ADMET description protocol. Antiproliferative activity was evaluated by MTT, BrdU incorporation, flow cytometry, and cell death ELISAPLUS assay. This study predicted the best model for CD151-LEL with 94.1% residues in favored regions and Z score -2.79 kcal/mol using the threading method. The web-based receptor cavity method identified one functional target site, which was suitable for the binding of aromatic and heterocyclic compounds. Molecular docking study identified pyrocatechol (PCL) and 5-fluorouracil (FU) as potential leads of CD151-LEL. The pharmacophore model identified interaction points of modeled CD151-LEL with PCL and FU. Also, the analysis of ADMET properties revealed the drug-likeness of PCL and FU. The viability of MDA-MB 231 cells was significantly reduced with PCL and FU but less affected MCF-12A, normal healthy breast epithelial cell line. With 50% toxic concentration, both PCL and FU significantly inhibited 82.46 and 87.12% proliferation, respectively, of MDA-MB 231 cells by altering morphology and inducing G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. In addition, PCL and FU inhibited the CD151 expression by 4.5-and 4.8-folds, respectively. This study suggests the further assessment of pyrocatechol as a potential lead of CD151 in breast cancer at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasa Akella
- Cancer Biology Lab, Dept. of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, Institute of Science, GITAM (Deemed to Be University), Visakhapatnam, 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - RamaRao Malla
- Cancer Biology Lab, Dept. of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, Institute of Science, GITAM (Deemed to Be University), Visakhapatnam, 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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12
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Magnone M, Sturla L, Guida L, Spinelli S, Begani G, Bruzzone S, Fresia C, Zocchi E. Abscisic Acid: A Conserved Hormone in Plants and Humans and a Promising Aid to Combat Prediabetes and the Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12061724. [PMID: 32526875 PMCID: PMC7352484 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Abscisic acid (ABA) is a hormone with a very long evolutionary history, dating back to the earliest living organisms, of which modern (ABA-producing) cyanobacteria are likely the descendants, well before separation of the plant and animal kingdoms, with a conserved role as a signal regulating cell responses to environmental challenges. In mammals, nanomolar ABA controls the metabolic response to glucose availability by stimulating glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue with an insulin-independent mechanism and increasing energy expenditure in the brown and white adipose tissues. Activation by ABA of AMP-dependent kinase (AMPK), in contrast to the insulin-induced activation of AMPK-inhibiting Akt, is responsible for stimulation of GLUT4-mediated muscle glucose uptake, and for the browning effect on white adipocytes. Intake of micrograms per Kg body weight of ABA improves glucose tolerance in both normal and in borderline subjects and chronic intake of such a dose of ABA improves blood glucose, lipids and morphometric parameters (waist circumference and body mass index) in borderline subjects for prediabetes and the metabolic syndrome. This review summarizes the most recent results obtained in vivo with microgram amounts of ABA, the role of the receptor LANCL2 in the hormone’s action and the significance of the endowment by mammals of two different hormones controlling the metabolic response to glucose availability. Finally, open issues in need of further investigation and perspectives for the clinical use of nutraceutical ABA are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Magnone
- Nutravis S.r.l., Via Corsica 2/19, 16128 Genova, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.S.); (L.G.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (E.Z.); Tel.: +39-10-3538131 (M.M.); +39-10-3538161 (E.Z.)
| | - Laura Sturla
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.S.); (L.G.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Lucrezia Guida
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.S.); (L.G.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Sonia Spinelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.S.); (L.G.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Giulia Begani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.S.); (L.G.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Santina Bruzzone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.S.); (L.G.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Chiara Fresia
- Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
| | - Elena Zocchi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.S.); (L.G.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: (M.M.); (E.Z.); Tel.: +39-10-3538131 (M.M.); +39-10-3538161 (E.Z.)
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13
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Michiels M, Daleo G, López Mañanes A. Differential modulation after feeding in different salinities and response to abscisic acid (ABA) and extracellular Ca 2+ of aminopeptidase N (APN) activity in the hepatopancreas of the intertidal euryhaline crab Neohelice granulata. CAN J ZOOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2019-0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Modulation of aminopeptidase N (APN) activity in the digestive tract by various factors would be important to adjust digestive and absorptive processes under different physiological and (or) environmental conditions. We studied the postprandial responses at different salinities and the effect of abscisic acid (ABA) and extracellular Ca2+ on APN activity in the hepatopancreas (the main site for nutrient digestion and absorption) of the model species Neohelice granulata (Dana, 1851). Enzyme activity was determined at different times (0, 24, 48, and 72 h) after feeding in crabs acclimated either to 35 psu (osmoconformation) or 10 psu (hyper-regulation). APN activity increased around 50% at 24 h after feeding at 35 psu, whereas no changes occurred at 10 psu. Enzyme activity was also assayed in the presence of ABA (1 × 10–4 mol·L–1) or extracellular Ca2+ (1 × 10–4 mol·L–1), showing increments of 60% and 56%, respectively. The results suggest a role of APN in postprandial adjustments and its modulation by different chemical messengers by direct effect on the hepatopancreas. Moreover, to our knowledge, this work is the first to show the effect of ABA on a digestive enzyme in the digestive tract of an animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.S. Michiels
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (IIMyC), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3250, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - G.R. Daleo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas (IIB), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Mar del, Plata, Argentina
| | - A.A. López Mañanes
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (IIMyC), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Funes 3250, Mar del Plata, Argentina
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Booz V, Christiansen CB, Kuhre RE, Saltiel MY, Sociali G, Schaltenberg N, Fischer AW, Heeren J, Zocchi E, Holst JJ, Bruzzone S. Abscisic acid stimulates the release of insulin and of GLP-1 in the rat perfused pancreas and intestine. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2019; 35:e3102. [PMID: 30468287 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.3102] [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: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Previous results indicate that nanomolar concentrations of abscisic acid (ABA) stimulate insulin release from β-pancreatic cells in vitro and that oral ABA at 50 mg/kg increases plasma GLP-1 in the fasted rat. The aim of this study was to test the effect of ABA on the perfused rat pancreas and intestine, to verify the insulin- and incretin-releasing actions of ABA in controlled physiological models. MATERIALS AND METHODS Rat pancreas and small intestine were perfused with solutions containing ABA at high-micromolar concentrations, or control secretagogues. Insulin and GLP-1 concentrations in the venous effluent were analysed by radioimmunoassay, and ABA levels were determined by ELISA. RESULTS High micromolar concentrations of ABA induced GLP-1 secretion from the proximal half of the small intestine and insulin secretion from pancreas. GLP-1 stimulated ABA secretion from pancreas in a biphasic manner. Notably, a positive correlation was found between the ABA area under the curve (AUC) and the insulin AUC upon GLP-1 administration. CONCLUSION Our results indicate the existence of a cross talk between GLP-1 and ABA, whereby ABA stimulates GLP-1 secretion, and vice versa. Release of ABA could be considered as a new promising molecule in the strategy of type 2 diabetes treatment and as a new endogenous hormone in the regulation of glycaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Booz
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, and CEBR, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Charlotte Bayer Christiansen
- NovoNordisk Foundation Center for Metabolic Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rune Ehrenreich Kuhre
- NovoNordisk Foundation Center for Metabolic Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Monika Yosifova Saltiel
- NovoNordisk Foundation Center for Metabolic Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Giovanna Sociali
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, and CEBR, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Nicola Schaltenberg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II: Molecular Cell Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexander W Fischer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II: Molecular Cell Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Heeren
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II: Molecular Cell Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Elena Zocchi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, and CEBR, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Jens J Holst
- NovoNordisk Foundation Center for Metabolic Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Santina Bruzzone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biochemistry, and CEBR, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
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