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Çimenli S, Kale İ, Muhcu M. Investigation of Serum Phoenixin-14 Concentration in Pregnant Women Diagnosed with Hyperemesis Gravidarum. Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol 2023; 227:347-353. [PMID: 37216963 DOI: 10.1055/a-2073-8652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the relationship between the hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and maternal serum phoenixin-14 (PNX-14) concentrations. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted with 88 pregnant women who applied to the Umraniye Training and Research Hospital Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic between February 2022 and October 2022. The HG group consisted of 44 pregnant women diagnosed with HG between the 7th and 14th gestational weeks, and the control group consisted of 44 healthy pregnant women matched with the HG group in terms of age, BMI, and gestational week. Demographic characteristics, ultrasound findings, and laboratory outcomes were noted. The two groups were compared in terms of maternal serum PNX-14 concentrations. RESULTS Gestational age at blood sampling for PNX-14 was similar in both groups (p=1.000). While maternal serum PNX-14 concentration was 85.5 pg/ml in the HG group, it was 71.3 pg/ml in the control group (p=0.012). ROC analysis was performed to determine the value of maternal serum PNX-14 concentration in terms of predicting HG. AUC analysis of maternal serum PNX-14 for HG estimation was 0.656 (p=0.012, 95% CI=0.54-0.77). The optimal cutoff value for maternal serum PNX-14 concentration was determined as 79.81 pg/ml with 59% sensitivity and 59% specificity. CONCLUSION In this study, maternal serum PNX-14 concentration was found to be higher in pregnant women with HG, which indicates that high serum PNX-14 concentrations may have an anorexigenic effect on food intake in pregnancy. Concentrations of other PNX isoforms in HG and changes in PNX concentrations in pregnant women with HG who regained weight after treatment remain to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sümeyye Çimenli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İbrahim Kale
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Murat Muhcu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Unit, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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Schalla MA, Oerter S, Cubukova A, Metzger M, Appelt-Menzel A, Stengel A. Locked Out: Phoenixin-14 Does Not Cross a Stem-Cell-Derived Blood-Brain Barrier Model. Brain Sci 2023; 13:980. [PMID: 37508911 PMCID: PMC10377091 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13070980] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin-14 is a recently discovered peptide regulating appetite. Interestingly, it is expressed in the gastrointestinal tract; however, its supposed receptor, GPR173, is predominantly found in hypothalamic areas. To date, it is unknown how peripherally secreted phoenixin-14 is able to reach its centrally located receptor. To investigate whether phoenixin is able to pass the blood-brain barrier, we used an in vitro mono-culture blood-brain barrier (BBB) model consisting of brain capillary-like endothelial cells derived from human induced-pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC-BCECs). The passage of 1 nMol and 10 nMol of phoenixin-14 via the mono-culture was measured after 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, and 240 min using a commercial ELISA kit. The permeability coefficients (PC) of 1 nMol and 10 nMol phoenixin-14 were 0.021 ± 0.003 and 0.044 ± 0.013 µm/min, respectively. In comparison with the PC of solutes known to cross the BBB in vivo, those of phoenixin-14 in both concentrations are very low. Here, we show that phoenixin-14 alone is not able to cross the BBB, suggesting that the effects of peripherally secreted phoenixin-14 depend on a co-transport mechanism at the BBB in vivo. The mechanisms responsible for phoenixin-14's orexigenic property along the gut-brain axis warrant further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha A Schalla
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine; Charite-Universitätsmedizin BerlinCorporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 12203 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, HELIOS Kliniken GmbH, 78628 Rottweil, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sabrina Oerter
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), 97070 Würzburg, Germany
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), University Hospital Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alevtina Cubukova
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), University Hospital Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marco Metzger
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), 97070 Würzburg, Germany
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), University Hospital Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Antje Appelt-Menzel
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), 97070 Würzburg, Germany
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), University Hospital Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine; Charite-Universitätsmedizin BerlinCorporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 12203 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
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3
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Liu T, Yang M, Wu Y, Bu G, Han X, Du X, Liang Q, Cao X, Huang A, Zeng X, Meng F. PNX14 but not PNX20 as a novel regulator of preadipocyte differentiation via activating Epac-ERK signaling pathway in Gallus gallus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2023; 335:114232. [PMID: 36774983 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114232] [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: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Small integral membrane protein 20 (SMIM20) could generate two main peptides, PNX14 and PNX20, which participate in multiple biological roles such as reproduction, inflammation and energy metabolism in mammals. However, little is known about their physiological functions in non-mammalian vertebrates. Using chicken (c-) as an animal model, we found cSMIM20 was moderately expressed in adipose tissues, and its expression was gradually increased during the differentiation of chicken preadipocytes, suggesting that it may play an important role in chicken adipogenesis. Further research showed cPNX14 could facilitate the differentiation of chicken preadipocytes into mature adipocytes by enhancing expression of adipogenic genes including PPARγ, CEBPα and FABP4, and promoting the formation of lipid droplets. This pro-adipogenic effect of cPNX14 was completely attenuated by Epac-specific and ERK inhibitor. Interestingly, cPNX20 failed to regulate the adipogenic genes and lipid droplet content. Collectively, our findings reveal that cPNX14 but not cPNX20 can serve as a novel adipogenesis mediator by activating the Epac-ERK signaling pathway in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuoyuan Liu
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Ming Yang
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Yuping Wu
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Guixian Bu
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xingfa Han
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xiaogang Du
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Qiuxia Liang
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xiaohan Cao
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Anqi Huang
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Xianyin Zeng
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China
| | - Fengyan Meng
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xinkang Road, Ya'an 625014, PR China.
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Fatoki TH, Chukwuejim S, Udenigwe CC, Aluko RE. In Silico Exploration of Metabolically Active Peptides as Potential Therapeutic Agents against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065828. [PMID: 36982902 PMCID: PMC10058213 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is regarded as a fatal neurodegenerative disease that is featured by progressive damage of the upper and lower motor neurons. To date, over 45 genes have been found to be connected with ALS pathology. The aim of this work was to computationally identify unique sets of protein hydrolysate peptides that could serve as therapeutic agents against ALS. Computational methods which include target prediction, protein-protein interaction, and peptide-protein molecular docking were used. The results showed that the network of critical ALS-associated genes consists of ATG16L2, SCFD1, VAC15, VEGFA, KEAP1, KIF5A, FIG4, TUBA4A, SIGMAR1, SETX, ANXA11, HNRNPL, NEK1, C9orf72, VCP, RPSA, ATP5B, and SOD1 together with predicted kinases such as AKT1, CDK4, DNAPK, MAPK14, and ERK2 in addition to transcription factors such as MYC, RELA, ZMIZ1, EGR1, TRIM28, and FOXA2. The identified molecular targets of the peptides that support multi-metabolic components in ALS pathogenesis include cyclooxygenase-2, angiotensin I-converting enzyme, dipeptidyl peptidase IV, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein 3, and endothelin receptor ET-A. Overall, the results showed that AGL, APL, AVK, IIW, PVI, and VAY peptides are promising candidates for further study. Future work would be needed to validate the therapeutic properties of these hydrolysate peptides by in vitro and in vivo approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stanley Chukwuejim
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB 373, Oye 371104, Nigeria
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Chibuike C Udenigwe
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nutrition Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Rotimi E Aluko
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
- Richardson Centre for Food Technology and Research, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
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Friedrich T, Stengel A. Current state of phoenixin-the implications of the pleiotropic peptide in stress and its potential as a therapeutic target. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1076800. [PMID: 36860304 PMCID: PMC9968724 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1076800] [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: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin is a pleiotropic peptide, whose known functions have broadened significantly over the last decade. Initially first described as a reproductive peptide in 2013, phoenixin is now recognized as being implicated in hypertension, neuroinflammation, pruritus, food intake, anxiety as well as stress. Due to its wide field of involvement, an interaction with physiological as well as psychological control loops has been speculated. It has shown to be both able to actively reduce anxiety as well as being influenced by external stressors. Initial rodent models have shown that central administration of phoenixin alters the behavior of the subjects when confronted with stress-inducing situations, proposing an interaction with the perception and processing of stress and anxiety. Although the research on phoenixin is still in its infancy, there are several promising insights into its functionality, which might prove to be of value in the pharmacological treatment of several psychiatric and psychosomatic illnesses such as anorexia nervosa, post-traumatic stress disorder as well as the increasingly prevalent stress-related illnesses of burnout and depression. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of phoenixin, its interactions with physiological processes as well as focus on the recent developments in stress response and the possible novel treatment options this might entail.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. Friedrich
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - A. Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany,*Correspondence: A. Stengel,
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Parlak Ak T, Yaman M, Bayrakdar A, Bulmus O. Expression of phoenixin-14 and nesfatin-1 in the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis in the phases of the estrous cycle. Neuropeptides 2023; 97:102299. [PMID: 36327662 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2022.102299] [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: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Phoenixin-14 (PNX-14) and nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2)/nesfatin-1 are regulatory neuropeptides expressed in the hypothalamus. These neuropeptides can be effective in hormonal regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and reproductive functions. In the present study, the distribution of PNX-14 and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 in the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovary, and uterus tissues during the phases of the estrous cycle in female rats was investigated. Eighteen Wistar Albino rats determined among animals showing regular estrous cycle by vaginal smear method were divided into three groups: proestrus (Group I), estrus (Group II) and diestrus (Group III). Serum gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), plasma PNX-14, and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 concentrations were the highest, moderate, and lowest in estrus, diestrus, and proestrus phases, respectively. PNX-14 immunoreactivity in the supraoptic and arcuate nuclei of the hypothalamus and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 immunoreactivity in the paraventricular nuclei were particularly evident in the estrus phase. These neuropeptide immunoreactivities were decreased in different cells of anterior pituitary during proestrus compared with those during estrus and diestrus. PNX-14 immunoreactivity in the ovary, especially during the estrus phase, was diffuse and intense in the granulosa and luteal cells and oocytes, and it was few and weak in theca cells. In addition, NUCB2/nesfatin-1 immunoreactivity was abundant and strong in granulosa and luteal cells, theca and interstitial cells, and oocytes during estrus. In the estrus phase, PNX-14 immunoreactivity was strong in the glandular epithelial cells and stromal cells of the endometrium, also NUCB2/nesfatin-1 immunoreactivity was strong in the epithelial and glandular epithelial cells. As a result, when the estrous cycle was evaluated, it was concluded that the changes in the distribution of PNX-14 and NUCB2/nesfatin-1 at all phases were related to GnRH and that these neuropeptides showed the highest immunoreactivity especially in the HPG axis and uterus tissues of estrus rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuba Parlak Ak
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Munzur, Tunceli 62000, Turkey.
| | - Mine Yaman
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Firat, Elazig 23119, Turkey
| | - Ali Bayrakdar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Balıkesir University, Balikesir 10000, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Bulmus
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Balikesir University, Balikesir 10000, Turkey
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7
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Friedrich T, Goebel-Stengel M, Schalla MA, Kobelt P, Rose M, Stengel A. Abdominal surgery increases activity in several phoenixin immunoreactive nuclei. Neurosci Lett 2023; 792:136938. [PMID: 36341925 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136938] [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: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on the peptide phoenixin has increased in recent years and greatly widened the known scope of its functions since its discovery in 2013. Involvement of phoenixin has since been shown in anxiety, food intake, reproduction as well as emotional and immunological stress. To further evaluate its involvement in stress reactions, this study aims to investigate the effects of abdominal surgery, a well-established physical stressor, on the activity of phoenixin-immunoreactive brain nuclei. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 6/group) were subjected to either an abdominal surgery stress protocol or a sham operation. Animals in the verum group were anesthetized, the abdominal cavity opened and the cecum palpated, followed by closing of the abdomen and recovery. Sham operated animals only received inhalation anesthesia and time for recovery. All animals were subsequently sacrificed and brains processed and evaluated for c-Fos activity as well as phoenixin density. RESULTS Compared to control, abdominal surgery significantly increased c-Fos activity in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN, 6.4-fold, p < 0.001), the medial part of the nucleus of the solitary tract (mNTS, 3.8-fold, p < 0.001), raphe pallidus (RPa, 3.6-fold, p < 0.001), supraoptic nucleus (SON, 3.2-fold, p < 0.001), ventrolateral medulla (VLM, also called A1C1, 3.0-fold, p < 0.001), dorsal motor nucleus of vagus (DMN, 2.9-fold, p < 0.001), locus coeruleus (LC, 1.8-fold, p < 0.01) and Edinger-Westphal nucleus (EW, 1.6-fold, p < 0.05), while not significantly altering c-Fos activity in the amygdala (CeM, 1.3-fold, p > 0.05). Phoenixin immunoreactivity was not significantly affected by abdominal surgery (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION The observed abdominal surgery-related increase in activity in phoenixin immunoreactive nuclei compared to sham surgery controls supports the hypothesis of an involvement of phoenixin in stress reactions. Interestingly, various psychological and physical stressors lead to specific changes in activity and immunoreactivity in phoenixin-containing nuclei, giving rise to a stressor-specific involvement of phoenixin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiemo Friedrich
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Miriam Goebel-Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine, Helios Kliniken GmbH, Rottweil, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martha Anna Schalla
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Kobelt
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Rose
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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8
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Ozdemir-Kumral ZN, Sen E, Yapici HB, Atakul N, Domruk OF, Aldag Y, Sen LS, Kanpalta Mustafaoğlu F, Yuksel M, Akakin D, Erzik C, Haklar G, Imeryuz N. Phoenixin 14 ameloriates pancreatic injury in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by alleviating oxidative burden. J Pharm Pharmacol 2022; 74:1651-1659. [PMID: 36130115 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgac055] [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: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Phoenixin-14 (PNX) is a neuropeptide that has been shown to prevent oxidative damage and stimulates insulin secretion. We investigated the effects of PNX on pancreatic injury induced by streptozotocin (STZ), and nicotinamide (NAD). Male Sprague-Dawley rats, in control (C) and diabetic (STZ) groups, were treated with either saline, or PNX (0.45 nmol/kg, or 45 nmol/kg) daily for 3 days 1 week after STZ injection. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and gastric emptying rate (GER) were measured. Tissue and blood samples were collected. PNX treatments prevented pancreatic damage and β cell loss. Increased luminol and lucigenin levels in the pancreas, ileum and liver tissues of STZ groups were alleviated by PNX treatment in pancreatic and ileal tissues. PNX0.45 decreased FBG without any change in insulin blood level and pancreatic mRNA. GER increased in all diabetic rats while PNX0.45 delayed GER only in the C group. PNX diminishes pancreatic damage and lowers FBG by reducing oxidative load.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eminenur Sen
- Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | | | - Yusra Aldag
- Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Leyla Semiha Sen
- Department of Physiology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of General Surgery, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Meral Yuksel
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technics, Marmara University Vocational School of Health Services, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Dilek Akakin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Can Erzik
- Department of Medical Biology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Goncagul Haklar
- Department of Biochemistry, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Neşe Imeryuz
- Department of Physiology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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9
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Liang H, Zhao Q, Lv S, Ji X. Regulation and physiological functions of phoenixin. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:956500. [PMID: 36090042 PMCID: PMC9456248 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.956500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin is a newly discovered neuropeptide generated from small integral membrane protein 20. Phoenixin is a ligand for the G protein-coupled receptor 173 (GPR173) and has been detected in central and peripheral tissues of human, rats, mice, bovine, and zebrafish. It was initially involved in regulating reproductive function by stimulating the luteinizing hormone release from pituitary cells by increasing the level of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Recently, many functions of phoenixin have been generalized, including regulation of food intake, memory, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, inflammation, neuronal and microglial activity, energy metabolism and body fluid balance, cardiovascular function, and endocrine activity. In addition, the interaction between phoenixin and nesfatin-1 have been revealed. The present article summarized the latest research progress on physiological function of phoenixin, suggesting that it is a potential target for novel drug development and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Liang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shuangyu Lv
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shuangyu Lv, ; Xinying Ji,
| | - Xinying Ji
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- *Correspondence: Shuangyu Lv, ; Xinying Ji,
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10
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Breton TS, Murray CA, Huff SR, Phaneuf AM, Tripp BM, Patuel SJ, Martyniuk CJ, DiMaggio MA. Phoenixin-14 alters transcriptome and steroid profiles in female green-spotted puffer (Dichotomyctere nigroviridis). Sci Rep 2022; 12:9454. [PMID: 35676522 PMCID: PMC9177834 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13695-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin (PNX) is a highly conserved, novel hormone with diverse functions, including hypothalamic control of reproduction, appetite modulation, and regulation of energy metabolism and inflammation. While some functions appear conserved across vertebrates, additional research is required to fully characterize these complex pleiotropic effects. For instance, very little is known about transcriptome level changes associated with PNX exposure, including responses in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which is critical in vertebrate reproduction. In addition, the PNX system may be especially complex in fish, where an additional receptor is likely present in some species. The purpose of this study was to assess hypothalamic and ovarian transcriptomes after PNX-14 administration in female vitellogenic green-spotted puffer (Dichotomyctere nigroviridis). Steroid-related changes were also assessed in the liver and blood plasma. Hypothalamic responses included pro-inflammatory signals such as interleukin 1β, possibly related to gut-brain axis functions, as well as suppression of cell proliferation. Ovarian responses were more widely downregulated across all identified pathways, which may reflect progression to a less transcriptionally active state in oocytes. Both organs shared regulation in transforming growth factor-β and extracellular matrix remodeling (periostin) pathways. Reproductive processes were in general downregulated, but both inhibiting (bone morphogenetic protein 15 and follistatin) and promoting (17-hydroxyprogesterone) factors for oocyte maturation were identified. Select genes involved in reproduction (vitellogenins, estrogen receptors) in the liver were unresponsive to PNX-14 and higher doses may be needed to induce reproductive effects in D. nigroviridis. These results reinforce the complexity of PNX actions in diverse tissues and highlight important roles for this hormone in regulating the immune response, energy metabolism, and cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy S. Breton
- grid.266648.80000 0000 8760 9708Division of Natural Sciences, University of Maine at Farmington, Farmington, ME 04938 USA
| | - Casey A. Murray
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory, Program in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Ruskin, FL 33570 USA
| | - Sierra R. Huff
- grid.266648.80000 0000 8760 9708Division of Natural Sciences, University of Maine at Farmington, Farmington, ME 04938 USA
| | - Anyssa M. Phaneuf
- grid.266648.80000 0000 8760 9708Division of Natural Sciences, University of Maine at Farmington, Farmington, ME 04938 USA
| | - Bethany M. Tripp
- grid.266648.80000 0000 8760 9708Division of Natural Sciences, University of Maine at Farmington, Farmington, ME 04938 USA
| | - Sarah J. Patuel
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA
| | - Christopher J. Martyniuk
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611 USA
| | - Matthew A. DiMaggio
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory, Program in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Ruskin, FL 33570 USA
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11
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Abstract
Neuropeptides are a diverse class of signaling molecules in metazoans. They occur in all animals with a nervous system and also in neuron-less placozoans. However, their origin has remained unclear because no neuropeptide shows deep homology across lineages, and none have been found in sponges. Here, we identify two neuropeptide precursors, phoenixin (PNX) and nesfatin, with broad evolutionary conservation. By database searches, sequence alignments, and gene-structure comparisons, we show that both precursors are present in bilaterians, cnidarians, ctenophores, and sponges. We also found PNX and a secreted nesfatin precursor homolog in the choanoflagellate Salpingoeca rosetta. PNX, in particular, is highly conserved, including its cleavage sites, suggesting that prohormone processing occurs also in choanoflagellates. In addition, based on phyletic patterns and negative pharmacological assays, we question the originally proposed GPR-173 (SREB3) as a PNX receptor. Our findings revealed that secreted neuropeptide homologs derived from longer precursors have premetazoan origins and thus evolved before neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Thiel
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Gáspár Jékely
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
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12
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Inflammatory Stress Induced by Intraperitoneal Injection of LPS Increases Phoenixin Expression and Activity in Distinct Rat Brain Nuclei. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12020135. [PMID: 35203899 PMCID: PMC8870310 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to phoenixin’s role in restraint stress and glucocorticoid stress, as well as its recently shown effects on the inflammasome, we aimed to investigate the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory stress on the activity of brain nuclei-expressing phoenixin. Male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 6/group) were intraperitoneally injected with either LPS or control (saline). Brains were processed for c-Fos and phoenixin immunohistochemistry and the resulting slides were evaluated using ImageJ software. c-Fos was counted and phoenixin was evaluated using densitometry. LPS stress significantly increased c-Fos expression in the central amygdaloid nucleus (CeM, 7.2-fold), supraoptic nucleus (SON, 34.8 ± 17.3 vs. 0.0 ± 0.0), arcuate nucleus (Arc, 4.9-fold), raphe pallidus (RPa, 5.1-fold), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSt, 5.9-fold), dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve (DMN, 89-fold), and medial part of the nucleus of the solitary tract (mNTS, 121-fold) compared to the control-injected group (p < 0.05). Phoenixin expression also significantly increased in the CeM (1.2-fold), SON (1.5-fold), RPa (1.3-fold), DMN (1.3-fold), and mNTS (1.9-fold, p < 0.05), leading to a positive correlation between c-Fos and phoenixin in the RPa, BSt, and mNTS (p < 0.05). In conclusion, LPS stress induces a significant increase in activity in phoenixin immunoreactive brain nuclei that is distinctively different from restraint stress.
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13
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Rajaei S, Zendehdel M, Rahnema M, Hassanpour S, Asle-Rousta M. Mediatory role of the central NPY, melanocortine and corticotrophin systems on phoenixin-14 induced hyperphagia in neonatal chicken. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2022; 315:113930. [PMID: 34673032 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Animal research indicates the neuropeptide Y (NPY), corticotrophin and melanocortin systems have a mediatory role in reward, however, how these substances interact with phenytoin-14 (PNX-14) induced food intake in birds remains to be identified. Accordingly, in this research eight tests were carried out to investigate the potential interactions of the NPY, melanocortin, as well as corticotrophin systems with PNX-14 on food consumption in neonatal chickens. In the first experiment, chickens were intracerebroventricular (ICV) injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and PNX-14 (0.8, 0.16, and 3.2 nmol). In second experiment, PBS, the antagonist of CRF1/CRF2 receptors (astressin-B, 30 μg) and PNX-14 + astressin-B were injected. In the rest of the experiments chicken received astressin2-B (CRF2 receptor antagonist; 30 µg), SHU9119 (MCR3/MCR4 receptor antagonist, 0.5nomol), MCL0020 (MCR4 receptor agonist, 0.5 nmol), B5063 (NPY1 receptor antagonist, 1.25 μg), SF22 (NPY2 receptor antagonist, 1.25 μg) and SML0891 (NPY5 receptor antagonist, 1.25 μg) rather than astressin-B. Then, cumulative intake of food was recorded for 2 h. Based on the findings, PNX-14 (0.16 and 3.2 nmol) led to increment in food consumption compared with the control (P < 0.05). Co-administration of the PNX-14 and astressin-B promoted PNX-14-induced hyperphagia (P < 0.05). Co-injection of the PNX-14 + astressin2-B potentiated hyperphagia PNX-14 (P < 0.05). Co-injection of PNX-14 + B5063 inhibited the effects of the PNX-14 (P < 0.05). The co-administration of the PNX-14 and SML0891 potentiated hypophagic effects of the PNX-14 (P < 0.05). The results showed that PNX-14-induced hyperphagia mediates via NPY1, NPY5, and CRF1/CRF2 receptors in neonatal chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Rajaei
- Department of Physiology, Zanjan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Morteza Zendehdel
- Division of Physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, 14155-6453 Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Rahnema
- Department of Physiology, Zanjan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Shahin Hassanpour
- Division of Physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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14
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McIlwraith EK, Zhang N, Belsham DD. The Regulation of Phoenixin: A Fascinating Multidimensional Peptide. J Endocr Soc 2021; 6:bvab192. [PMID: 35059547 PMCID: PMC8763610 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The phoenixin (PNX) peptide is linked to the control of reproduction, food intake, stress, and inflammation. However, little is known about what regulates its gene and protein expression, information that is critical to understand the physiological role of PNX. In this review, we summarize what is known about the transcriptional control of Pnx and its receptor Gpr173. A main function of PNX is as a positive regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, but there is a lack of research on its control by reproductive hormones and peptides. PNX is also associated with food intake, and its expression is linked to feeding status, fatty acids, and glucose. It is influenced by environmental and hormonal-induced stress. The regulation of Pnx in most contexts remains an enigma, in part due to conflicting and negative results. An extensive analysis of the response of the Pnx gene to factors related to reproduction, metabolism, stress, and inflammation is required. Analysis of the Pnx promoter and epigenetic regulation must be considered to understand how this level of control contributes to its pleiotropic effects. PNX is now linked to a broad range of functions, but more research on its gene regulation is required to understand its place in overall physiology and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ningtong Zhang
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Denise D Belsham
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
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15
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Role of the Novel Peptide Phoenixin in Stress Response and Possible Interactions with Nesfatin-1. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179156. [PMID: 34502065 PMCID: PMC8431171 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel peptide phoenixin was shown to be involved in several physiological processes ranging from reproduction to food intake. Interest in this protein has steadily increased over the last few years and its known implications have become much broader, playing a role in glucose homeostasis, anxiety, nociception, and pruritus. Phoenixin is expressed in a multitude of organs such as the small intestine, pancreas, and in the hypothalamus, as well as several other brain nuclei influencing numerous physiological functions. Its highly conserved amino-acid sequence amongst species leads to the assumption, that phoenixin might be involved in essential physiological functions. Its co-expression and opposing functionality to the extensively studied peptide nesfatin-1 has given rise to the idea of a possible counterbalancing role. Several recent publications focused on phoenixin’s role in stress reactions, namely restraint stress and lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation response, in which also nesfatin-1 is known to be altered. This review provides an overview on the phoenixins and nesfatin-1 properties and putative effects, and especially highlights the recent developments on their role and interaction in the response to response.
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16
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Mukherjee K, Unniappan S. Mouse gastric mucosal endocrine cells are sources and sites of action of Phoenixin-20. Peptides 2021; 141:170551. [PMID: 33862165 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Energy homeostasis is is determined by food intake and energy expenditure, which are partly regulated by the cross-talk between central and peripheral hormonal signals. Phoenixin (PNX) is a recently discovered pleiotropic neuropeptide with isoforms of 14 (PNX-14) and 20 (PNX-20) amino acids. It is a potent reproductive peptide in vertebrates, regulating the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG). It has been identified as a regulator of food intake during light phase when injected intracerebroventricularly in rats. In addition, plasma levels of PNX also increased after food intake in rats, suggesting that it might have possible roles in energy homeostasis. We hypothesized that gut is a source and site of action of PNX in mice. Immunoreactivity for PNX and its putative receptor, super-conserved receptor expressed in brain (SREB3; also known as the G-protein coupled receptor 173/GPR 173) was found in the stomach and intestine of male C57/BL6 J mice, and in MGN3-1 (mouse stomach endocrine) cells and STC-1 (mouse enteroendocrine) cells. In MGN3-1 cells, PNX-20 significantly upregulated ghrelin (10 nM) and ghrelin-O-acyl transferase (GOAT) mRNAs (1000 nM) at 6 h. In STC-1 cells, it significantly suppressed CCK (100 nM) at 2 h. No effects were found on other intestinal hormones tested (glucagon like peptide-1, glucose dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, and peptide YY). Together, these results indicate that PNX-20 is produced in the gut, and it could act directly on gut cells to regulate metabolic hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kundanika Mukherjee
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
| | - Suraj Unniappan
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
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17
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Chen H, Li X, Ma H, Zheng W, Shen X. Reduction in Nesfatin-1 Levels in the Cerebrospinal Fluid and Increased Nigrostriatal Degeneration Following Ventricular Administration of Anti-nesfatin-1 Antibody in Mice. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:621173. [PMID: 33613183 PMCID: PMC7890421 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.621173] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nesfatin-1 is one of several brain-gut peptides that have a close relationship with the central dopaminergic system. Our previous studies have shown that nesfatin-1 is capable of protecting nigral dopaminergic neurons against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced neurotoxicity. A recent study also revealed a reduced blood level of nesfatin-1 in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The current study was designed to investigate whether reduced nesfatin-1 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) induces nigrostriatal system degeneration. An intra-cerebroventricular (ICV) injection technique was used to administer anti-nesfatin-1 antibody directly into the lateral ventricle of the brain. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results showed that ICV injection of anti-nesfatin-1 antibody into the lateral ventricle of the brain once daily for 2 weeks caused a significant reduction in nesfatin-1 levels in the CSF (93.1%). Treatment with anti-nesfatin-1 antibody resulted in a substantial loss (23%) of TH-positive (TH+) dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc), as shown by immunofluorescence staining, a depletion in dopamine and its metabolites in the striatum detected by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and obvious nuclear shrinkage and mitochondrial lesions in dopaminergic neurons in the SNpc detected by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, the results from our Western blot and ELISA experiments demonstrated that anti-nesfatin-1 antibody injection induced an upregulation of caspase-3 activation, increased the expression of p-ERK, and elevated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the SNpc. Taken together, these observations suggest that reduced nesfatin-1 in the brain may induce nigrostriatal dopaminergic system degeneration; this effect may be mediated via mitochondrial dysfunction-related apoptosis. Our data support a role of nesfatin-1 in maintaining the normal physiological function of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Medical School of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xuelian Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Medical School of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Medical School of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Xiaoli Shen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Medical School of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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18
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Billert M, Rak A, Nowak KW, Skrzypski M. Phoenixin: More than Reproductive Peptide. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218378. [PMID: 33171667 PMCID: PMC7664650 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin (PNX) neuropeptide is a cleaved product of the Smim20 protein. Its most common isoforms are the 14- and 20-amino acid peptides. The biological functions of PNX are mediated via the activation of the GPR173 receptor. PNX plays an important role in the central nervous system (CNS) and in the female reproductive system where it potentiates LH secretion and controls the estrus cycle. Moreover, it stimulates oocyte maturation and increases the number of ovulated oocytes. Nevertheless, PNX not only regulates the reproduction system but also exerts anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and cell-protective effects. Furthermore, it is involved in behavior, food intake, sensory perception, memory, and energy metabolism. Outside the CNS, PNX exerts its effects on the heart, ovaries, adipose tissue, and pancreatic islets. This review presents all the currently available studies demonstrating the pleiotropic effects of PNX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Billert
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland; (M.B.); (K.W.N.)
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, 30-387 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof W. Nowak
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland; (M.B.); (K.W.N.)
| | - Marek Skrzypski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland; (M.B.); (K.W.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-6184-637-24
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19
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Friedrich T, Schalla MA, Lommel R, Goebel-Stengel M, Kobelt P, Rose M, Stengel A. Restraint stress increases the expression of phoenixin immunoreactivity in rat brain nuclei. Brain Res 2020; 1743:146904. [PMID: 32474019 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.146904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Phoenixin is a recently discovered peptide, which has been associated with reproduction, anxiety and food intake. Based on a considerable co-localization it has been linked to nesfatin-1, with a possible antagonistic mode of action. Since nesfatin-1 is known to play a role in anxiety and the response to stress, this study aims to investigate the effects of a well-established psychological stress model, restraint stress, on phoenixin-expressing brain nuclei and phoenixin expression in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to restraint stress (n = 8) or left undisturbed (control, n = 6) and the brains processed for c-Fos- and phoenixin immunohistochemistry. The number of c-Fos expressing cells was counted and phoenixin expression assessed semiquantitatively. Restraint stress significantly increased c-Fos expression in the dorsal motor nucleus of vagus nerve (DMN, 52-fold, p < 0.001), raphe pallidus (RPa, 15-fold, p < 0.001), medial part of the nucleus of the solitary tract (mNTS, 16-fold, p < 0.001), central amygdaloid nucleus, medial division (CeM, 9-fold, p = 0.01), supraoptic nucleus (SON, 9-fold, p < 0.001) and the arcuate nucleus (Arc, 2.5-fold, p < 0.03) compared to control animals. Also phoenixin expression significantly increased in the DMN (17-fold, p < 0.001), RPa (2-fold, p < 0.001) and mNTS (1.6-fold, p < 0.001) with positive correlations between c-Fos and phoenixin (r = 0.74-0.85; p < 0.01) in these nuclei. This pattern of activation suggests an involvement of phoenixin in response to restraint stress. Whether phoenixin mediates stress effects or is activated in a counterbalancing fashion will have to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Friedrich
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - M A Schalla
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - R Lommel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Goebel-Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine, Helios Kliniken GmbH, Rottweil, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - P Kobelt
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Rose
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Stengel
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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20
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Phoenixin-20 Stimulates mRNAs Encoding Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Gonadal Hormones, is Pro-Vitellogenic, and Promotes Oocyte Maturation in Zebrafish. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6264. [PMID: 32286445 PMCID: PMC7156445 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63226-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin-20 (PNX-20) is a bioactive peptide with hormone-like actions in vertebrates. In mammals, PNX stimulates hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal hormones and regulate reproductive processes. Our immunohisto/cytochemical studies show PNX-like and the putative PNX receptor, SREB3-like immunoreactivity in the gonads of zebrafish, and in zebrafish liver (ZFL) cells. Intraperitoneal injection of zebrafish PNX-20 upregulates mRNAs encoding both salmon gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), and chicken GnRH-II and kisspeptin and its receptor in zebrafish hypothalamus. Similarly, luteinizing hormone receptor mRNA expression in the testis, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor in the ovary, and the kisspeptin system were upregulated in the gonads of PNX-20 injected fish. We also observed the upregulation of genes involved in the sex steroidogenic pathway (cyp11a1, cyp17a1, 17βhsd, cyp19a1a) in the gonads of PNX-20 administered fish. PNX-20 upregulates the expression of vitellogenin isoforms and estrogen receptor (esr2a and 2b) mRNAs in ZFL cells in vitro. Meanwhile, siRNA-mediated knockdown of PNX-20 resulted in the downregulation of all vitellogenin transcripts, further suggesting its possible role in vitellogenesis. PNX-20 treatment resulted in a significant increase in germinal vesicle breakdown in zebrafish follicles in vitro. Collectively, these results provide strong evidence for PNX-20 effects on the HPG axis and liver to promote reproduction in zebrafish.
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21
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Wei P, Keller C, Li L. Neuropeptides in gut-brain axis and their influence on host immunity and stress. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:843-851. [PMID: 32322366 PMCID: PMC7160382 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, neuropeptides have been found to play a major role in communication along the gut-brain axis. Various neuropeptides are expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they facilitate the crosstalk between the nervous systems and other major body systems. In addition to being critical to communication from the brain in the nervous systems, neuropeptides actively regulate immune functions in the gut in both direct and indirect ways, allowing for communication between the immune and nervous systems. In this mini review, we discuss the role of several neuropeptides, including calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and phoenixin (PNX), in the gut-brain axis and summarize their functions in immunity and stress. We choose these neuropeptides to highlight the diversity of peptide communication in the gut-brain axis.
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Key Words
- ACTH, adrenocorticotrophic hormone
- Antimicrobial peptides
- CGRP, calcitonin gene-related peptide
- CNS, central nervous system
- CRH, corticotropin-releasing hormone
- CRLR, calcitonin receptor like receptor
- Gut-brain axis
- HPA axis, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis
- Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis
- Immunity
- LPS, lipopolysaccharides
- NPY, neuropeptide Y
- Neuropeptide
- PACAP, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide
- PNX, phoenixin
- RAMP1, receptor activity-modifying protein1
- SP, substance P
- Stress
- TRPV1, transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor-1
- VIP, vasoactive intestinal peptide
- α-MSH, α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingli Wei
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Caitlin Keller
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Lingjun Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Corresponding author at: School of Pharmacy & Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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22
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Guvenc G, Altinbas B, Kasikci E, Ozyurt E, Bas A, Udum D, Niaz N, Yalcin M. Contingent role of phoenixin and nesfatin-1 on secretions of the male reproductive hormones. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13410. [PMID: 31637758 DOI: 10.1111/and.13410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin (PNX) and nesfatin-1 are localised in the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. Moreover, the most of the PNX-expressing neurons in the hypothalamus also co-express nesfatin-1. These outcomes may suggest that there is an interaction between PNX and nesfatin-1, at least in terms of neuroendocrine-mediated regulations. Hence, the study was planned to find out the effects of centrally delivered PNX and nesfatin-1 on male sex hormones or to show the interactive association of intracerebroventricularly (ICV) injected PNX+nesfatin-1 combination on the release of male hormones. PNX and nesfatin-1, single or together, were delivered ICV to different male Wistar Albino rat groups. Both PNX and nesfatin-1 induced a significant enhancement in plasma FSH, LH and testosterone without inducing any alteration in plasma GnRH in the rats. The central combinatorial treatment of both the neuropeptides produced a more potent rise in male plasma hormone levels than treating with single neuropeptide. In summary, our preliminary data show that centrally delivered PNX and nesfatin-1 can affect plasma male hormone levels. Moreover, that the combinatorial treatment with both the neuropeptides in male rats leading to a more potent effect on the plasma male hormone levels might suggest that both these neuropeptides act synergistically in terms of regulation of male HPGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokcen Guvenc
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Burcin Altinbas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Sanko University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Esra Kasikci
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Ebru Ozyurt
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Aysenur Bas
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic, Faculty of Science and Art, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Duygu Udum
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Nasir Niaz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey.,Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Bio-Sciences, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Murat Yalcin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
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