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Pourbagher-Shahri AM, Forouzanfar F. Saffron (Crocus sativus) and its constituents for pain management: A review of current evidence. Phytother Res 2023; 37:5041-5057. [PMID: 37528638 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7968] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Pain can become a chronic and deliberating experience with a significant burden. In preclinical and clinical studies, Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has shown analgesic activities. Considering the unsatisfactory results of current therapeutic management for chronic pain conditions, we aimed to review saffron's analgesic activity and underlying mechanisms. Saffron showed antinociceptive activities in formalin-, carrageenan-, and capsaicin-induced experimental pain models. Saffron analgesic activities affected several targets, including ion channels of nociceptors; the adrenergic system and central histaminic system; inhibition of inflammatory pathways, apoptotic pathways, and oxidative stress; regulation of NO pathway, and the endocannabinoid system. Clinical studies showed analgesia of Saffron in rheumatoid arthritis, after-pain following childbirth, dysmenorrhea, and fibromyalgia. Our literature review showed that saffron can be beneficial as an adjunct therapy to commonly used analgesics in practice, particularly in chronic pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatemeh Forouzanfar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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2
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Wong TS, Li G, Li S, Gao W, Chen G, Gan S, Zhang M, Li H, Wu S, Du Y. G protein-coupled receptors in neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:177. [PMID: 37137892 PMCID: PMC10154768 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01427-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders are multifactorial disorders with diverse aetiological factors. Identifying treatment targets is challenging because the diseases are resulting from heterogeneous biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Nevertheless, the increasing understanding of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) opens a new possibility in drug discovery. Harnessing our knowledge of molecular mechanisms and structural information of GPCRs will be advantageous for developing effective drugs. This review provides an overview of the role of GPCRs in various neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. Besides, we highlight the emerging opportunities of novel GPCR targets and address recent progress in GPCR drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thian-Sze Wong
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 518172, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, 100084, Beijing, China
| | - Guangzhi Li
- Institute of Urology, The Affiliated Luohu Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen University, 518000, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shiliang Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, China
- Innovation Center for AI and Drug Discovery, East China Normal University, 200062, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 518172, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Innovation Center for AI and Drug Discovery, East China Normal University, 200062, Shanghai, China
| | - Geng Chen
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 518172, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shiyi Gan
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 518172, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Manzhan Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, China
- Innovation Center for AI and Drug Discovery, East China Normal University, 200062, Shanghai, China
| | - Honglin Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, China.
- Innovation Center for AI and Drug Discovery, East China Normal University, 200062, Shanghai, China.
| | - Song Wu
- Institute of Urology, The Affiliated Luohu Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen University, 518000, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Urology, South China Hospital, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, 518116, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yang Du
- Kobilka Institute of Innovative Drug Discovery, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Steroid Drug Discovery and Development, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 518172, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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Chen D, Zhang T, Lee TH. Cellular Mechanisms of Melatonin: Insight from Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10081158. [PMID: 32784556 PMCID: PMC7464852 DOI: 10.3390/biom10081158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are the second most common cause of death and characterized by progressive impairments in movement or mental functioning in the central or peripheral nervous system. The prevention of neurodegenerative disorders has become an emerging public health challenge for our society. Melatonin, a pineal hormone, has various physiological functions in the brain, including regulating circadian rhythms, clearing free radicals, inhibiting biomolecular oxidation, and suppressing neuroinflammation. Cumulative evidence indicates that melatonin has a wide range of neuroprotective roles by regulating pathophysiological mechanisms and signaling pathways. Moreover, melatonin levels are decreased in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the regulation, molecular mechanisms and biological functions of melatonin in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, vascular dementia and multiple sclerosis. We also discuss the clinical application of melatonin in neurodegenerative disorders. This information will lead to a better understanding of the regulation of melatonin in the brain and provide therapeutic options for the treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Chen
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (T.H.L.); Tel.: +86-591-2286-2498 (D.C.); +86-591-2286-2498 (T.H.L.)
| | | | - Tae Ho Lee
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (T.H.L.); Tel.: +86-591-2286-2498 (D.C.); +86-591-2286-2498 (T.H.L.)
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Gunata M, Parlakpinar H, Acet H. Melatonin: A review of its potential functions and effects on neurological diseases. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2020; 176:148-165. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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5
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Wang X, Zhang G, Qiao Y, Feng C, Zhao X. Crocetin attenuates spared nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain in mice. J Pharmacol Sci 2017; 135:141-147. [PMID: 29217355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Crocetin is the main component of saffron and exhibits anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress have been recognized to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. We investigated the effect of crocetin in a mouse model with neuropathic pain induced by spared nerve injury (SNI). Crocetin was intrathecally perfused at various doses for up to 12 days starting 3 days before the surgery. Behavioral tests were performed to determine pain sensitivity. The concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were measured to assess neuroinflammation. In addition, the enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was measured to reveal the oxidative stress level. We found that repeated treatment with crocetin dose-dependently attenuated mechanical and thermal allodynia in SNI mice. In addition, treatment with high dose of crocetin reduced SNI-induced increase of TNF-α and IL-1β. Crocetin also restored the activity of mitochondrial MnSOD which was reduced in the sciatic nerve and the spinal cord of SNI mice. Collectively, our data demonstrate that crocetin effectively attenuates the neuropathic pain and significantly suppresses oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the SNI mouse model, supporting the potential of crocetin in the treatment against neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 247 Bei Yuan Street, Jinan 250033, China
| | - Guangqing Zhang
- ICU of LinYi Central Hospital, LinYi 276400, Shandong, China
| | - Yong Qiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 247 Bei Yuan Street, Jinan 250033, China
| | - Chang Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 247 Bei Yuan Street, Jinan 250033, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, 247 Bei Yuan Street, Jinan 250033, China.
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Dardiotis E, Panayiotou E, Feldman ML, Hadjisavvas A, Malas S, Vonta I, Hadjigeorgiou G, Kyriakou K, Kyriakides T. Intraperitoneal melatonin is not neuroprotective in the G93ASOD1 transgenic mouse model of familial ALS and may exacerbate neurodegeneration. Neurosci Lett 2013; 548:170-5. [PMID: 23748038 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2013.05.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2013] [Revised: 05/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) reactive oxygen species and apoptosis are implicated in disease pathogenesis. Melatonin with its anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties is expected to ameliorate disease phenotype. The aim of this study was to assess possible neuroprotection of melatonin in the G93A-copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (G93ASOD1) transgenic mouse model of ALS. Four groups of mice, 14 animals each, were injected intraperitoneally with 0mg/kg, 0.5mg/kg, 2.5mg/kg and 50mg/kg of melatonin from age 40 days. The primary end points were; disease onset, disease duration, survival and rotarod performance. No statistically significant difference in disease onset between the four groups was found. Survival was significantly reduced with the 0.5mg/kg and 50mg/kg doses and tended to be reduced with the 2.5mg/kg dose. Histological analysis of spinal cords revealed increased motoneuron loss in melatonin treated mice. Melatonin treated animals were associated with increased oxidative stress as assessed with 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), a marker of lipid peroxidation. Histochemistry and Western blot data of spinal cord from melatonin treated mice revealed upregulation of human SOD1 compared to untreated mice. In addition, real-time PCR revealed a dose dependent upregulation of human SOD1 in melatonin treated animals. Thus, intraperitoneal melatonin, at the doses used, does not ameliorate and perhaps exacerbates phenotype in the G93ASOD1 mouse ALS model. This is probably due to melatonin's effect on upregulating gene expression of human toxic SOD1. This action presumably overrides any of its direct anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties.
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The effects of L-NAME on neuronal NOS and SOD1 expression in the DRG-spinal cord network of axotomised Thy 1.2 eGFP mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 7:129-41. [PMID: 22613021 DOI: 10.1017/s1740925x12000051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in pathophysiology of the nervous system. Copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) reacts with superoxide, which is also a substrate for NO, to provide antioxidative protection. NO production is greatly altered following nerve injury, therefore we hypothesised that SOD1 and NO may be involved in modulating axotomy responses in dorsal root ganglion (DRG)-spinal network. To investigate this interaction, adult Thy1.2 enhanced membrane-bound green fluorescent protein (eGFP) mice underwent sciatic nerve axotomy and received NG-nitro- <l-arginine methylester (L-NAME) or vehicle 7-9 days later. L4-L6 spinal cord and DRG were harvested for immunohistochemical analyses. Effect of injury was confirmed by axotomy markers; small proline-rich repeat protein 1A (SPRR1A) was restricted to ipsilateral neuropathology, while Thy1.2 eGFP revealed also contralateral crossover effects. L-NAME, but not axotomy, increased neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and SOD1 immunoreactive neurons, with no colocalisation, in a lamina-dependent manner in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Axotomy and/or L-NAME had no effect on total nNOS+ and SOD1+ neurons in DRG. However, L-NAME altered SOD1 expression in subsets of axotomised DRG neurons. These findings provide evidence for differential distribution of SOD1 and its modulation by NO, which may interact to regulate axotomy-induced changes in DRG-spinal network.
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Imai A, Matsunami K, Takagi H, Ichigo S. Proposed medications for taxane-induced myalgia and arthralgia (Review). Oncol Lett 2012; 3:1181-1185. [PMID: 22783414 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2012.651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Taxanes inhibit the disassembly of microtubules, which are involved in mitosis and axoplasmatic transport, and may cause the degeneration of peripheral, mainly small, sensory nerves. Peripheral neurotoxicity is a dose-limiting side-effect of taxanes. Neuroprotective agents may aid in the reduction of neurotoxicity, thus allowing the intensification of cytostatic therapy in patients. An increasing number of medications for the prevention of taxane-induced arthralgia and myalgia are becoming available to oncology teams. The most widely studied medications include so-called analgesics such as Shakuyaku-kanzo-to (a herbal medicine), corticosteroids and antihistamines. Arthralgias and myalgias (muscle spasms, fasciculations and prolonged contractions) may be extremely distressing for patients. New anti-epileptic drugs, particularly gabapentin and pregabalin, have proven to be safe and effective in the treatment of taxane-induced neurotoxicity. The aim of this review was to examine the topical choices available for the protective management of taxane-induced neurotoxicity monitored in preliminary case studies and clinical trials. At present, there is no standard of care for the prevention of taxane-induced arthralgia and myalgia. In combination with taxane-based chemotherapeutic regimens, these medical agents may be crucial in the treatment of a variety of types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Imai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Matsunami General Hospital, Gifu 501-6062, Japan
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Vieira AS, de Rezende ACS, Rogerio F. Evaluating motor neuron death in neonatal rats subjected to sciatic nerve lesion. Methods Mol Biol 2012; 846:383-91. [PMID: 22367827 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-536-7_32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal sciatic nerve lesion is a useful experimental model for the study of neuronal cell death. Sciatic nerve transection or crush is the most frequently used approach to evaluate motoneuron loss in the lumbar enlargement of the spinal cord. Here we describe and illustrate the surgical procedures performed in our laboratory to assess motoneuron cell death and the related cellular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Schwambach Vieira
- Department of Anatomy, Cellular Biology, Physiology and Biophysics, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Nahleh Z, Pruemer J, Lafollette J, Sweany S. Melatonin, a promising role in taxane-related neuropathy. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-ONCOLOGY 2010; 4:35-41. [PMID: 20567633 PMCID: PMC2883241 DOI: 10.4137/cmo.s4132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Melatonin has neuroprotective effects in animal studies and has been suggested to decrease adverse reactions of chemotherapy including neuropathy. This pilot trial aimed at assessing whether melatonin, given during taxane chemotherapy for breast cancer, will decrease the incidence and/or severity of neuropathy. Methods: Twenty two consecutive patients beginning chemotherapy for breast cancer with paclitaxel, or docetaxel were enrolled. Patients received melatonin 21 mg daily at bedtime. Incidence and severity of neuropathy were assessed using neurological examinations, toxicity assessment per NCI-CTC 3.0 scale and FACT-Taxane quality of life questionnaire. Results: Neuropathy was seen in 45% (n = 10) of patients, 23% (n = 6) grade 1 and 22% (n = 5) Grade 2 neuropathy. No grade 3 neuropathies were reported. The majority (55%) of all patients reported no neuropathy. Compliance with melatonin (>60% of dose) was seen in most patients (86%) No patient reported daytime sedation. The median FACT-Taxane quality of life end of study score was 137, with only a 0.5 median decline from baseline. Conclusion: Patients receiving melatonin during taxane chemotherapy had a reduced incidence of neuropathy. Melatonin may be useful in the prevention or reduction of taxane-induced neuropathy and in maintaining quality of life. Larger trials are warranted to further explore the role of melatonin in neuropathy treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Nahleh
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Wayne State University 4100 John R, 4HWCRC, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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Abstract
Melatonin plays a neuroprotective role in models of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying neuroprotection by melatonin are not well understood. Apoptotic cell death in the central nervous system is a feature of neurodegenerative diseases. The intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways and the antiapoptotic survival signal pathways play critical roles in neurodegeneration. This review summarizes the reports to date showing inhibition by melatonin of the intrinsic apoptotic pathways in neurodegenerative diseases including stroke, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, Huntington disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Furthermore, the activation of survival signal pathways by melatonin in neurodegenerative diseases is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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12
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Chang HM, Huang YL, Lan CT, Wu UI, Hu ME, Youn SC. Melatonin preserves superoxide dismutase activity in hypoglossal motoneurons of adult rats following peripheral nerve injury. J Pineal Res 2008; 44:172-80. [PMID: 18289169 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-079x.2007.00505.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) produces functional changes in lesioned neurons in which oxidative stress is considered to be the main cause of neuronal damage. As superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an important antioxidative enzyme involved in redox regulation of oxidative stress, the present study determined whether melatonin would exert its beneficial effects by preserving the SOD reactivity following PNI. Adult rats subjected to hypoglossal nerve transection were intraperitoneally injected with melatonin at ones for 3, 7, 14, 30 and 60 days successively. The potential neuroprotective effects of melatonin were quantitatively demonstrated by neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), mitochondrial manganese SOD (Mn-SOD), and cytosolic copper-zinc SOD (Cu/Zn-SOD) immunohistochemistry. The functional recovery of the lesioned neurons was evaluated by choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) immunohistochemistry along with the electromyographic (EMG) recordings of denervation-induced fibrillation activity. The results indicate that following PNI, the nNOS immunoreactivity was significantly increased in lesioned neurons peaking at 14 days. The up-regulation of nNOS temporally coincided with the reduction of ChAT and SOD in which the Cu/Zn-SOD showed a greater diminution than Mn-SOD. However, following melatonin administration, the nNOS augmentation was successfully suppressed and the activities of Mn-SOD, Cu/Zn-SOD, and ChAT were effectively preserved at all postaxotomy periods. EMG data also showed a decreased fibrillation in melatonin-treated groups, suggesting a potential effect of melatonin in promoting functional recovery. In association with its significant capacity in preserving SOD reactivity, melatonin is suggested to serve as a powerful therapeutic agent for treating PNI-relevant oxidative damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Ming Chang
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Kotulska K, LePecheur M, Marcol W, Lewin-Kowalik J, Larysz-Brysz M, Paly E, Matuszek I, London J. Overexpression of copper/zinc-superoxide dismutase in transgenic mice markedly impairs regeneration and increases development of neuropathic pain after sciatic nerve injury. J Neurosci Res 2006; 84:1091-7. [PMID: 16862565 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.21000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Despite the general capacity of peripheral nervous system to regenerate, peripheral nerve injury is often followed by incomplete recovery of function, sometimes with the burden of neuropathic pain. The mechanisms of both regeneration and nociception have not been clarified, but it is known that inflammatory reactions are involved. Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) is an important scavenger protein that acts against oxidative stress. It has been shown to play an important role in apoptosis and inflammation. The aim of this study was to examine the role of SOD1 overexpression in peripheral nerve regeneration and neuropathic pain-related behavior in mice. Sciatic nerves of SOD1-overexpressing and FVB/N wild type-mice were transected and immediately resutured. Evaluation of motor and sensory function and autotomy was carried out during 4 weeks of followup. We found markedly worse sciatic function index outcome as well as more significant atrophy of denervated muscles in SOD1-overexpressing animals compared with wild type. Autotomy was markedly worse in SOD1 transgenic mice than in wild-type animals. Histological evaluation revealed that the intensity of regeneration features, including numbers of GAP-43-positive growth cones, Schwann cells, and macrophages in the distal stump of the transected nerve, was also decreased in transgenic mice. Neuroma formation at the injury site was significantly more prominent in this group. Taken together, our findings suggest that SOD1 overexpression is deleterious for nerve regeneration processes and aggravates neuropathic pain-like state in mice. This can be at least partially ascribed to disturbed inflammatory reactions at the injury site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kotulska
- Department of Child Neurology and Epileptology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland.
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Rogério F, Teixeira SA, Júnior HJ, Maria CCJ, Vieira AS, de Rezende ACS, Pereira GAG, Muscará MN, Langone F. mRNA and protein expression and activities of nitric oxide synthases in the lumbar spinal cord of neonatal rats after sciatic nerve transection and melatonin administration. Neurosci Lett 2006; 407:182-7. [PMID: 16978780 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2006.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2006] [Revised: 08/15/2006] [Accepted: 08/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Sciatic axotomy in 2-day-old rats (P2) causes lumbar motoneuron loss, which could be associated with nitric oxide (NO) production. NO may be produced by three isoforms of synthase (NOS): neuronal (nNOS), endothelial (eNOS) and inducible (iNOS). We investigated NOS expression and NO synthesis in the lumbar enlargement of rats after sciatic nerve transection at P2 and treatment with the antioxidant melatonin (sc; 1 mg/kg). At time points ranging from P2 to P7, expression of each isoform was assessed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry; catalytic rates of calcium-dependent (nNOS, eNOS) and independent (iNOS) NOS were measured by the conversion of [3H]L-arginine to [3H]L-citrulline. All NOS isoforms were expressed and active in unlesioned animals. nNOS and iNOS were detected in some small cells in the parenchyma. Only endothelial cells were positive for eNOS. No NOS isoform was detected in motoneurons. Axotomy did not change these immunohistochemical findings, nNOS and iNOS mRNA expression and calcium-independent activity at all survival times. However, sciatic nerve transection reduced eNOS mRNA levels at P7 and increased calcium-dependent activity at 1 and 6 h. Melatonin did not alter NOS expression. Despite having no action on NOS activity in unlesioned controls the neurohormone enhanced calcium-dependent activity at 1 and 72 h and reduced calcium-independent catalysis at 72 h in lesioned rats. These results suggest that NOS isoforms are constitutive in the neonatal lumbar enlargement and are not overexpressed after sciatic axotomy. Changes in NO synthesis induced by axotomy and melatonin administration in the current model are discussed considering some beneficial and deleterious effects that NO may have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Rogério
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of Campinas, UNICAMP, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Guedes RP, Bosco LD, Teixeira CM, Araújo ASR, Llesuy S, Belló-Klein A, Ribeiro MFM, Partata WA. Neuropathic pain modifies antioxidant activity in rat spinal cord. Neurochem Res 2006; 31:603-9. [PMID: 16770731 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-006-9058-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/13/2006] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is an important pathophysiological mechanism of many neurological diseases. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species have been cited as molecules involved in the nociceptive process. In this study, rats were submitted to sciatic nerve transection (SNT) for induction of neuropathic pain, and enzyme activities of SOD and catalase as well as lipid peroxidation (LPO) were measured in the lumbosacral spinal cord. The results show that LPO was not changed after SNT. SOD activity was reduced 7 days after SNT, while the change in catalase activity occurred on the third and seventh days in both sham and SNT animals. Hyperalgesia in SNT group was detected at the same points in time. These results suggest that SNT was not a strong enough stimulus to deplete all antioxidant content in the spinal cord, since increase in LPO was not detected. However, the role of oxidative stress in nociception can not be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata P Guedes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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Avossa D, Grandolfo M, Mazzarol F, Zatta M, Ballerini L. Early signs of motoneuron vulnerability in a disease model system: Characterization of transverse slice cultures of spinal cord isolated from embryonic ALS mice. Neuroscience 2006; 138:1179-94. [PMID: 16442737 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2005.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2005] [Revised: 11/10/2005] [Accepted: 12/02/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the SOD1 gene are associated with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The mechanisms by which these mutations lead to cell loss within the spinal cord ventral horns are unknown. In the present report we used the G93A transgenic mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis to develop and characterize an in vitro tool for the investigation of subtle alterations of spinal tissue prior to frank neuronal degeneration. To this aim, we developed organotypic slice cultures from wild type and G93A embryonic spinal cords. We combined immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy techniques to compare wild type and G93A spinal cord tissues after 14 days of growth under standard in vitro conditions. By SMI32 and choline acetyl transferase immunostaining, the distribution and morphology of motoneurons were compared in the two culture groups. Wild type and mutant cultures displayed no differences in the analyzed parameters as well as in the number of motoneurons. Similar results were observed when glial fibrillary acidic protein and myelin basic protein-positive cells were examined. Cell types within the G93A slice underwent maturation and slices could be maintained in culture for at least 3 weeks when prepared from embryos. Electron microscopy investigation confirmed the absence of early signs of mitochondria vacuolization or protein aggregate formation in G93A ventral horns. However, a significantly different ratio between inhibitory and excitatory synapses was present in G93A cultures, when compared with wild type ones, suggesting the expression of subtle synaptic dysfunction in G93A cultured tissue. When compared with controls, G93A motoneurons exhibited increased vulnerability to AMPA glutamate receptor-mediated excitotoxic stress prior to clear disease appearance. This in vitro disease model may thus represent a valuable tool to test early mechanisms contributing to motoneuron degeneration and potential therapeutic molecular interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Avossa
- Neurobiology Sector and Istituto Nazionale di Fisica della Materia Unit, International School for Advanced Studies, via Beirut 2-4, 34014 Trieste, Italy
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Sharma HS, Sjöquist PO, Mohanty S, Wiklund L. Post-injury treatment with a new antioxidant compound H-290/51 attenuates spinal cord trauma-induced c-fos expression, motor dysfunction, edema formation, and cell injury in the rat. BRAIN EDEMA XIII 2006; 96:322-8. [PMID: 16671479 DOI: 10.1007/3-211-30714-1_68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The neuroprotective efficacy of post-injury treatment with the antioxidant compound H-290/51 (10, 30, and 60 minutes after trauma) on immediate early gene expression (c-fos), blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) permeability, edema formation, and motor dysfunction was examined in a rat model of spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI was produced by a longitudinal incision into the right dorsal horn of the T10-11 segment under Equithesin anesthesia. Focal SCI in control rats resulted in profound up-regulation of c-fos expression, BSCB dysfunction, edema formation, and cell damage in the adjacent T9 and T12 segments at 5 hours. Pronounced motor dysfunction was present at this time as assessed using the Tarlov scale and the inclined plane test. Treatment with H-290/51 (50 mg/kg, p.o.) 10 and 30 minutes after SCI (but not after 60 minutes) markedly attenuated c-fos expression and motor dysfunction. In these groups, BSCB permeability, edema formation, and cell injuries were mildly but significantly reduced. These observations suggest that (i) antioxidants are capable of attenuating cellular and molecular events following trauma, and (ii) have the capacity to induce neuroprotection and improve motor function if administered during the early phase of SCI, a novel finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Sharma
- Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Research, Department of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Thomas MS, Zhang W, Jordan PM, Saragovi HU, Taglialatela G. Signaling pathways mediating a selective induction of nitric oxide synthase II by tumor necrosis factor alpha in nerve growth factor-responsive cells. J Neuroinflammation 2005; 2:19. [PMID: 16144552 PMCID: PMC1242246 DOI: 10.1186/1742-2094-2-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2005] [Accepted: 09/06/2005] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Inflammation and oxidative stress play a critical role in neurodegeneration associated with acute and chronic insults of the nervous system. Notably, affected neurons are often responsive to and dependent on trophic factors such as nerve growth factor (NGF). We previously showed in NGF-responsive PC12 cells that tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and NGF synergistically induce the expression of the free-radical producing enzyme inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). We proposed that NGF-responsive neurons might be selectively exposed to iNOS-mediated oxidative damage as a consequence of elevated TNFα levels. With the aim of identifying possible therapeutic targets, in the present study we investigated the signaling pathways involved in NGF/TNFα-promoted iNOS induction. Methods Western blotting, RT-PCR, transcription factor-specific reporter gene systems, mutant cells lacking the low affinity p75NTR NGF receptor and transfections of TNFα/NGF chimeric receptors were used to investigate signalling events associated with NGF/TNFα-promoted iNOS induction in PC12 cells. Results Our results show that iNOS expression resulting from NGF/TNFα combined treatment can be elicited in PC12 cells. Mutant PC12 cells lacking p75NTR did not respond, suggesting that p75NTR is required to mediate iNOS expression. Furthermore, cells transfected with chimeric TNFα/NGF receptors demonstrated that the simultaneous presence of both p75NTR and TrkA signaling is necessary to synergize with TNFα to mediate iNOS expression. Lastly, our data show that NGF/TNFα-promoted iNOS induction requires activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Conclusion Collectively, our in vitro model suggests that cells bearing both the high and low affinity NGF receptors may display increased sensitivity to TNFα in terms of iNOS expression and therefore be selectively at risk during acute (e.g. neurotrauma) or chronic (e.g. neurodegenerative diseases) conditions where high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the nervous system occur pathologically. Our results also suggest that modulation of NFκB-promoted transcription of selective genes could serve as a potential therapeutic target to prevent neuroinflammation-induced neuronal damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Thomas
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas - USA
| | - WenRu Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas - USA
| | - Paivi M Jordan
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas - USA
| | - H Uri Saragovi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Giulio Taglialatela
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Texas - USA
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