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Cheng X, Tan Y, Li H, Zhang Z, Hui S, Zhang Z, Peng W. Mechanistic Insights and Potential Therapeutic Implications of NRF2 in Diabetic Encephalopathy. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:8253-8278. [PMID: 38483656 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04097-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is a complication of diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes (T2D), characterized by damage in the central nervous system and cognitive impairment, which has gained global attention. Despite the extensive research aimed at enhancing our understanding of DE, the underlying mechanism of occurrence and development of DE has not been established. Mounting evidence has demonstrated a close correlation between DE and various factors, such as Alzheimer's disease-like pathological changes, insulin resistance, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Of interest, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a transcription factor with antioxidant properties that is crucial in maintaining redox homeostasis and regulating inflammatory responses. The activation and regulatory mechanisms of NRF2 are a relatively complex process. NRF2 is involved in the regulation of multiple metabolic pathways and confers neuroprotective functions. Multiple studies have provided evidence demonstrating the significant involvement of NRF2 as a critical transcription factor in the progression of DE. Additionally, various molecules capable of activating NRF2 expression have shown potential in ameliorating DE. Therefore, it is intriguing to consider NRF2 as a potential target for the treatment of DE. In this review, we aim to shed light on the role and the possible underlying mechanism of NRF2 in DE. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the current research landscape and address the challenges associated with using NRF2 activators as potential treatment options for DE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Cheng
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder, Changsha, 410011, China
| | - Yejun Tan
- School of Mathematics, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Hongli Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder, Changsha, 410011, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- YangSheng College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Shan Hui
- Department of Geratology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, China
| | - Zheyu Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder, Changsha, 410011, China.
| | - Weijun Peng
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No.139 Middle Renmin Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder, Changsha, 410011, China.
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2
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Moawad MHED, Serag I, Alkhawaldeh IM, Abbas A, Sharaf A, Alsalah S, Sadeq MA, Shalaby MMM, Hefnawy MT, Abouzid M, Meshref M. Exploring the Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease: An Educational Literature Review. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04468-y. [PMID: 39254911 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04468-y] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) presents a significant challenge to global health. It is characterized by progressive cognitive deterioration and increased rates of morbidity and mortality among older adults. Among the various pathophysiologies of AD, mitochondrial dysfunction, encompassing conditions such as increased reactive oxygen production, dysregulated calcium homeostasis, and impaired mitochondrial dynamics, plays a pivotal role. This review comprehensively investigates the mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in AD, focusing on aspects such as glucose metabolism impairment, mitochondrial bioenergetics, calcium signaling, protein tau and amyloid-beta-associated synapse dysfunction, mitophagy, aging, inflammation, mitochondrial DNA, mitochondria-localized microRNAs, genetics, hormones, and the electron transport chain and Krebs cycle. While lecanemab is the only FDA-approved medication to treat AD, we explore various therapeutic modalities for mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction in AD, including antioxidant drugs, antidiabetic agents, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (FDA-approved to manage symptoms), nutritional supplements, natural products, phenylpropanoids, vaccines, exercise, and other potential treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Hossam El Din Moawad
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Clinical Department, Alexandria Main University Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
- Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Serag
- Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| | | | - Abdallah Abbas
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Abdulrahman Sharaf
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Government Hospital, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Sumaya Alsalah
- Ministry of Health, Primary Care, Governmental Health Centers, Manama, Bahrain
| | | | | | | | - Mohamed Abouzid
- Department of Physical Pharmacy and Pharmacokinetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3 St., 60-806, Poznan, Poland.
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-812, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Mostafa Meshref
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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Wang ML, Zhang YJ, He DL, Li T, Zhao MM, Zhao LM. Inhibition of PLA2G4A attenuated valproic acid- induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization and restored impaired autophagic flux: Implications for hepatotoxicity. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116438. [PMID: 39025409 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116438] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Valproic acid (VPA) has broad efficacy against several seizures but causes liver injury limiting its prolonged clinical use. Some studies have demonstrated that VPA-induced hepatotoxicity is characterized by microvesicular hepatic steatosis. However, novel detailed mechanisms to explain VPA-induced hepatic steatosis and experimentally rigorously validated protective agents are still lacking. In this study, 8-week-old C57BL/6J mice were gavaged with VPA (500 mg/kg/d) for 4 weeks to establish an in vivo model of VPA-induced chronic liver injury. Quantitative proteomic and non-targeted lipidomic analyses were performed to explore the underlying mechanisms of VPA-induced hepatotoxicity. As a result, VPA-induced hepatotoxicity is associated with impaired autophagic flux, which is attributed to lysosomal dysfunction. Further studies revealed that VPA-induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), allows soluble lysosomal enzymes to leak into the cytosol, which subsequently led to impaired lysosomal acidification. A lower abundance of glycerophospholipids and an increased abundance of lysophospholipids in liver tissues of mice in the VPA group strongly indicated that VPA-induced LMP may be mediated by the activation of phospholipase PLA2G4A. Metformin (Met) acted as a potential protective agent attenuating VPA-induced liver dysfunction and excessive lipid accumulation. Molecular docking and cellular thermal shift assays demonstrated that Met inhibited the activity of PLA2G4A by directly binding to it, thereby ameliorating VPA-induced LMP and autophagic flux impairment. In conclusion, this study highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting PLA2G4A-mediated lysosomal dysfunction in VPA-induced hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Lu Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yu-Jia Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Da-Long He
- Institute of Health Sciences, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology of Ministry of Education, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ming-Ming Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Li-Mei Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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Hu T, Wei JW, Zheng JY, Luo QY, Hu XR, Du Q, Cai YF, Zhang SJ. Metformin improves cognitive dysfunction through SIRT1/NLRP3 pathway-mediated neuroinflammation in db/db mice. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:1101-1115. [PMID: 38953935 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-024-02465-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM), an important public health problem, aggravates the global economic burden. Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is a serious complication of DM in the central nervous system. Metformin has been proven to improve DE. However, the mechanism is still unclear. In this study, the db/db mice, a common model used for DE, were employed to explore and study the neuroprotective effect of metformin and related mechanisms. Behavioral tests indicated that metformin (100 or 200 mg/kg/day) could significantly improve the learning and memory abilities of db/db mice. The outcomes from the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin tolerance test (ITT) demonstrate that metformin effectively modulates glucose and insulin signaling pathways in db/db mice. The results of body weight and blood lipid panel (total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) show that metformin promotes the level of lipid metabolism in db/db mice. Furthermore, data from oxidative stress assays, which measured levels of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, suggest that metformin suppresses oxidative stress-induced brain damage in db/db mice. In addition, western blot, Nissl staining, and immunofluorescence results showed that metformin increased the expressions of nerve growth factor and postsynaptic density 95 and repaired neuronal structural damage. For the mechanism study, metformin activated SIRT1 and inhibited the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome (NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18) and inflammatory cytokines (TNFα and IL-6). In conclusion, metformin could ameliorate cognitive dysfunction through the SIRT1/NLRP3 pathway, which might be a promising mechanism for DE treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jun-Wen Wei
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jia-Yi Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Qing-Yi Luo
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xin-Rui Hu
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Qun Du
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Ye-Feng Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
| | - Shi-Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
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5
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Luo Y, Zhu J, Hu Z, Luo W, Du X, Hu H, Peng S. Progress in the Pathogenesis of Diabetic Encephalopathy: The Key Role of Neuroinflammation. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2024; 40:e3841. [PMID: 39295168 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.3841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is a severe complication that occurs in the central nervous system (CNS) and leads to cognitive impairment. DE involves various pathophysiological processes, and its pathogenesis is still unclear. This review summarised current research on the pathogenesis of diabetic encephalopathy, which involves neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, iron homoeostasis, blood-brain barrier disruption, altered gut microbiota, insulin resistance, etc. Among these pathological mechanisms, neuroinflammation has been focused on. This paper summarises some of the molecular mechanisms involved in neuroinflammation, including the Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR), Lipocalin-2 (LCN-2), Pyroptosis, Advanced Glycosylation End Products (AGEs), and some common pro-inflammatory factors. In addition, we discuss recent advances in the study of potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of DE against neuroinflammation. The current research on the pathogenesis of DE is progressing slowly, and more research is needed in the future. Further study of neuroinflammation as a mechanism is conducive to the discovery of more effective treatments for DE in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jinxi Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ziyan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wei Luo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohong Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Haijun Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Shengliang Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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6
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Chauhan A, Dubey S, Jain S. Association Between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer's Disease: Common Molecular Mechanism and Therapeutic Targets. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4111. [PMID: 39228117 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) rates are rising, mirroring the global trend of an aging population. Numerous epidemiological studies have shown that those with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) have an increased risk of developing dementia. These degenerative and progressive diseases share some risk factors. To a large extent, the amyloid cascade is responsible for AD development. Neurofibrillary tangles induce neurodegeneration and brain atrophy; this chain reaction begins with hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins caused by progressive amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation. In addition to these processes, it seems that alterations in brain glucose metabolism and insulin signalling lead to cell death and reduced synaptic plasticity in AD, before the onset of symptoms, which may be years away. Due to the substantial evidence linking insulin resistance in the brain with AD, researchers have coined the name "Type 3 diabetes" to characterize the condition. We still know little about the processes involved, even though current animal models have helped illuminate the links between T2DM and AD. This brief overview discusses insulin and IGF-1 signalling disorders and the primary molecular pathways that may connect them. The presence of GSK-3β in AD is intriguing. These proteins' association with T2DM and pancreatic β-cell failure suggests they might be therapeutic targets for both disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Chauhan
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, Central University of Rajasthan, Rajasthan, India
| | - Sachin Dubey
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, Central University of Rajasthan, Rajasthan, India
| | - Smita Jain
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy, Central University of Rajasthan, Rajasthan, India
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7
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Hurtado-Carneiro V, LeBaut-Ayuso Y, Velázquez E, Flores-Lamas C, Fernández-de la Rosa R, García-García L, Gómez-Oliver F, Ruiz-Albusac JM, Pozo MÁ. Effects of chronic treatment with metformin on brain glucose hypometabolism and central insulin actions in transgenic mice with tauopathy. Heliyon 2024; 10:e35752. [PMID: 39170185 PMCID: PMC11337050 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e35752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain glucose hypometabolism and insulin alterations are common features of many neurological diseases. Herein we sought to corroborate the brain glucose hypometabolism that develops with ageing in 12-months old Tau-VLW transgenic mice, a model of tauopathy, as well as to determine whether this model showed signs of altered peripheral glucose metabolism. Our results demonstrated that 12-old months Tau mice exhibited brain glucose hypometabolism as well as basal hyperglycemia, impaired glucose tolerance, hyperinsulinemia, and signs of insulin resistance. Then, we further studied the effect of chronic metformin treatment (9 months) in Tau-VLW mice from 9 to 18 months of age. Longitudinal PET neuroimaging studies revealed that chronic metformin altered the temporal profile in the progression of brain glucose hypometabolism associated with ageing. Besides, metformin altered the content and/or phosphorylation of key components of the insulin signal transduction pathway in the frontal cortex leading to significant changes in the content of the active forms. Thus, metformin increased the expression of pAKT-Y474 while reducing pmTOR-S2448 and pGSK3β. These changes might be related, at least partially, to a slow progression of ageing, neurological damage, and cognitive decline. Metformin also improved the peripheral glucose tolerance and the ability of the Tau-VLW mice to maintain their body weight through ageing. Altogether our study shows that the tau-VLW mice could be a useful model to study the potential interrelationship between tauopathy and central and peripheral glucose metabolism alterations. More importantly our results suggest that chronic metformin treatment may have direct beneficial central effects by post-transcriptional modulation of key components of the insulin signal transduction pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yannick LeBaut-Ayuso
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Velázquez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cinthya Flores-Lamas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Luis García-García
- Pluridisciplinary Institute, Complutense University, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisca Gómez-Oliver
- Pluridisciplinary Institute, Complutense University, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Miguel Ruiz-Albusac
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Ángel Pozo
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
- Pluridisciplinary Institute, Complutense University, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
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Papini N, Giussani P, Tringali C. Metformin Lysosomal Targeting: A Novel Aspect to Be Investigated for Metformin Repurposing in Neurodegenerative Diseases? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8884. [PMID: 39201569 PMCID: PMC11354325 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a widely employed drug in type 2 diabetes. In addition to warranting good short- and long-term glycemic control, metformin displays many intriguing properties as protection against cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, anti-tumorigenic and longevity promotion. In addition to being a low-cost drug, metformin is generally well tolerated. However, despite the enthusiastic drive to aliment these novel studies, many contradictory results suggest the importance of better elucidating the complexity of metformin action in different tissues/cells to establish its possible employment in neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarises recent data identifying lysosomal-dependent processes and lysosomal targets, such as endosomal Na+/H+ exchangers, presenilin enhancer 2 (PEN2), the lysosomal pathway leading to AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, and the transcription factor EB (TFEB), modulated by metformin. Lysosomal dysfunctions resulting in autophagic and lysosomal acidification and biogenesis impairment appear to be hallmarks of many inherited and acquired neurodegenerative diseases. Lysosomes are not yet seen as a sort of cellular dump but are crucial in determining key signalling paths and processes involved in the clearance of aggregated proteins. Thus, the possibility of pharmacologically modulating them deserves great interest. Despite the potentiality of metformin in this context, many additional important issues, such as dosing, should be addressed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cristina Tringali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, LITA Segrate, 20054 Segrate, MI, Italy; (N.P.); (P.G.)
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Pourfridoni M, Hedayati-Moghadam M, Fathi S, Fathi S, Mirrashidi FS, Askarpour H, Shafieemojaz H, Baghcheghi Y. Beneficial effects of metformin treatment on memory impairment. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:640. [PMID: 38727848 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09445-1] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Memory issues are a prevalent symptom in different neurodegenerative diseases and can also manifest in certain psychiatric conditions. Despite limited medications approved for treating memory problems, research suggests a lack of sufficient options in the market. Studies indicate that a significant percentage of elderly individuals experience various forms of memory disorders. Metformin, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, has shown neuroprotective properties through diverse mechanisms. This study explores the potential of metformin in addressing memory impairments. The current research gathered its data by conducting an extensive search across electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Previous research suggests that metformin enhances brain cell survival and memory function in both animal and clinical models by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death while increasing beneficial neurotrophic factors. The findings of the research revealed that metformin is an effective medication for enhancing various types of memory problems in numerous studies. Given the rising incidence of memory disorders, it is plausible to utilize metformin, which is an affordable and accessible drug. It is often recommended as a treatment to boost memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Pourfridoni
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Mahdiyeh Hedayati-Moghadam
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Shirin Fathi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Shiva Fathi
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Mirrashidi
- Departrment of Pediatrics, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Hedyeh Askarpour
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Hadi Shafieemojaz
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Yousef Baghcheghi
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
- Bio Environmental Health Hazards Research Center, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
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10
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Ni B, Xiao Y, Wei R, Liu W, Zhu L, Liu Y, Ruan Z, Li J, Wang S, Zhao J, Huang W. Qufeng tongluo decoction decreased proteinuria in diabetic mice by protecting podocytes via promoting autophagy. J Tradit Complement Med 2024; 14:312-320. [PMID: 38707926 PMCID: PMC11068988 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2023.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of diabetic complications, which has become the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease. In addition to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blocker(ACEI/ARB) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an effective alternative treatment for DKD. In this study, the effect of Qufeng Tongluo (QFTL) decoction in decreasing proteinuria has been observed and its mechanism has been explored based on autophagy regulation in podocyte. Methods In vivo study, db/db mice were used as diabetes model and db/m mice as blank control. Db/db mice were treated with QFTL decoction, rapamycin, QFTL + 3-Methyladenine (3-MA), trehalose, chloroquine (CQ) and QFTL + CQ. Mice urinary albumin/creatinine (UACR), nephrin and autophagy related proteins (LC3 and p62) in kidney tissue were detected after intervention of 9 weeks. Transcriptomics was operated with the kidney tissue from model group and QFTL group. In vitro study, mouse podocyte clone-5 (MPC-5) cells were stimulated with hyperglycemic media (30 mmol/L glucose) or cultured with normal media. High-glucose-stimulated MPC-5 cells were treated with QFTL freeze-drying powder, rapamycin, CQ, trehalose, QFTL+3-MA and QFTL + CQ. Cytoskeletal actin, nephrin, ATG-5, ATG-7, Beclin-1, cathepsin L and cathepsin B were assessed. mRFP-GFP-LC3 was established by stubRFP-sensGFP-LC3 lentivirus transfection. Results QFTL decoction decreased the UACR and increased the nephrin level in kidney tissue and high-glucose-stimulated podocytes. Autophagy inhibitors, including 3-MA and chloroquine blocked the effects of QFTL decoction. Further study showed that QFTL decoction increased the LC3 expression and relieved p62 accumulation in podocytes of db/db mice. In high-glucose-stimulated MPC-5 cells, QFTL decoction rescued the inhibited LC3 and promoted the expression of ATG-5, ATG-7, and Beclin-1, while had no effect on the activity of cathepsin L and cathepsin B. Results of transcriptomics also showed that 51 autophagy related genes were regulated by QFTL decoction, including the genes of ATG10, SCOC, ATG4C, AMPK catalytic subunit, PI3K catalytic subunit, ATG3 and DRAM2. Conclusion QFTL decoction decreased proteinuria and protected podocytes in db/db mice by regulating autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boran Ni
- Section II of Endocrinology & Nephropathy Department, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Guang’ Anmen Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Xiao
- Nephropathy Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ruojun Wei
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Weijing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Liwei Zhu
- Section II of Endocrinology & Nephropathy Department, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yifan Liu
- Section II of Endocrinology & Nephropathy Department, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhichao Ruan
- Section II of Endocrinology & Nephropathy Department, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jiamu Li
- Section II of Endocrinology & Nephropathy Department, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shidong Wang
- Section II of Endocrinology & Nephropathy Department, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jinxi Zhao
- Section II of Endocrinology & Nephropathy Department, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Weijun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital Affiliated to Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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11
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Guo B, Li QY, Liu XJ, Luo GH, Wu YJ, Nie J. Diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease: Vacuolar adenosine triphosphatase as a potential link. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:2577-2595. [PMID: 38419188 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Globally, the incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasing year by year, causing a huge economic and social burden, and their pathogenesis and aetiology have been proven to have a certain correlation. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that vacuolar adenosine triphosphatases (v-ATPases) in eukaryotes, which are biomolecules regulating lysosomal acidification and glycolipid metabolism, play a key role in DM and AD. This article describes the role of v-ATPase in DM and AD, including its role in glycolysis, insulin secretion and insulin resistance (IR), as well as its relationship with lysosomal acidification, autophagy and β-amyloid (Aβ). In DM, v-ATPase is involved in the regulation of glucose metabolism and IR. v-ATPase is closely related to glycolysis. On the one hand, v-ATPase affects the rate of glycolysis by affecting the secretion of insulin and changing the activities of key glycolytic enzymes hexokinase (HK) and phosphofructokinase 1 (PFK-1). On the other hand, glucose is the main regulator of this enzyme, and the assembly and activity of v-ATPase depend on glucose, and glucose depletion will lead to its decomposition and inactivation. In addition, v-ATPase can also regulate free fatty acids, thereby improving IR. In AD, v-ATPase can not only improve the abnormal brain energy metabolism by affecting lysosomal acidification and autophagy but also change the deposition of Aβ by affecting the production and degradation of Aβ. Therefore, v-ATPase may be the bridge between DM and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Guo
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Qi-Ye Li
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Xue-Jia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Guo-Hui Luo
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ya-Juan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Jing Nie
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of the Ministry of Education and Joint International Research Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
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12
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Ribarič S. The Contribution of Type 2 Diabetes to Parkinson's Disease Aetiology. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4358. [PMID: 38673943 PMCID: PMC11050090 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are chronic disorders that have a significant health impact on a global scale. Epidemiological, preclinical, and clinical research underpins the assumption that insulin resistance and chronic inflammation contribute to the overlapping aetiologies of T2D and PD. This narrative review summarises the recent evidence on the contribution of T2D to the initiation and progression of PD brain pathology. It also briefly discusses the rationale and potential of alternative pharmacological interventions for PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samo Ribarič
- Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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13
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Yao W, Zhang Q, Zhao Y, Xu X, Zhang S, Wang X. Tangzhiqing decoction attenuates cognitive dysfunction of mice with type 2 diabetes by regulating AMPK/mTOR autophagy signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 321:117536. [PMID: 38056539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Tangzhiqing decoction (TZQD) is an effective prescription developed by Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications, which has a clear cerebral protective effect on mice with diabetic cognitive dysfunction, but its specific mechanism has not been well elucidated. AIMS OF THE STUDY This study aims to verify the protection of TZQD on cognitive function in mice with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and explore the possible underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six active ingredients in TZQD were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. In vivo experiments, the protection of TZQD on cognitive function and hippocampal neurons in type 2 diabetes mice was verified to obtain the optimal intervention dose of TZQD. TZQD and 3-methyladenine (3 MA) respectively or jointly intervened in mice with T2DM for 12 weeks, followed by detecting the cognitive difference, hippocampus cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) region injury, and hippocampal neuronal apoptosis in each group. Simultaneously, the investigation of autophagosome formation and organelle impairment in hippocampal neurons, along with the examination of AMPK/mTOR pathway proteins and autophagy-related proteins, was conducted to elucidate the potential mechanisms, through which TZQD modulates autophagy and enhances cognitive function. In vitro experiments, TZQD-containing serum and AMPK inhibitor Compound C (CC) were used to intervene in mouse hippocampal neuron HT22 cells under high glucose environment, further clarifying the regulatory role of TZQD on the AMPK/mTOR pathway and its impact on HT22 cell apoptosis and autophagy. RESULTS In vivo experiment results showed that TZQD had an obvious hypoglycemic effect. Different doses of TZQD could improve cognitive function and hippocampus damage in diabetes mice, with the middle dose of TZQD showing the best effect. TZQD increased the swimming speed of diabetes mice, improved their spatial recognition and memory ability, and reduced hippocampal neuronal apoptosis, Nissl body injury, and p-tau217 protein deposition. In addition, through transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunofluorescence, and Western blot (WB) detection, TZQD significantly improved the organelle damage of hippocampal neurons in diabetes mice, promoted the formation of autophagy lysosomes, increased the expression of autophagy-related proteins like Beclin 1, LC3II/LC3I, LAMP1, and LAMP2, reduced the level of P62 and promoted autophagy flow, which, however, were all significantly weakened by 3 MA. Meanwhile, TZQD regulated the expressions of AMPK/mTOR pathway proteins. In vitro experimental study results showed that TZQD can regulate the expression ratio of p-AMPK/AMPK alpha 1 and p-mTOR/mTOR in HT22 cells under high glucose conditions and improved the morphology and vitality of HT22 cells. By employing techniques such as monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining, Lysosomal red fluorescent probe staining, and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining, the investigation revealed that TZQD administration resulted in enhanced autophagosome formation, preservation of a lysosomal acidic milieu, and consequent mitigation of HT22 cell apoptosis under high glucose conditions. CONCLUSIONS TZQD can regulate the AMPK/mTOR pathway to activate autophagy to attenuate hippocampal neuronal apoptosis, thereby protecting cognitive function in diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqiang Yao
- First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China; Endocrine Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China; Endocrine Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Yun Zhao
- First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Xiru Xu
- Geriatric Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Endocrine Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Xu Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210046, China; Endocrine Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, China.
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Kim HK, Lee W, Ryu IH, Kim JK, Kim H, Yoo TK. Association between metformin use and the risk of developing open-angle glaucoma among patients with diabetes: a retrospective cohort study and meta-analysis. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:6. [PMID: 38316664 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-02945-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recent studies examining the neuroprotective effects of metformin on open-angle glaucoma (OAG) have failed to provide consistent results. In this study, we investigated the association between metformin use and OAG. METHODS Data were obtained from a sample cohort of the Korean National Health Insurance database. Patients diagnosed with type-2 diabetes (T2DM) between 2004 and 2013 were included. We performed propensity score-matched analysis in a matched cohort (N = 20,646). The risk of the newly developed OAG was estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model. Including the present study, the meta-analysis included five studies to calculate the pooled risk for OAG based on metformin use. RESULTS In the adjusted model, the analysis revealed no statistical association between metformin use and OAG incidence (hazard ratio [HR] 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.79-1.40; P = 0.738). The highest tercile of metformin use demonstrated no statistical significance (HR 0.93 [95% CI 0.63-1.37]; P = 0.703). No significant dose-dependent association was observed between the cumulative dose and incidence of OAG (P-value for trend = 0.336). In a meta-analysis of four published articles and the present study, the common-effects and random-effects models indicated conflicting results in terms of significance. The random effects model demonstrated no significant association (pooled risk ratio 0.53; 95% CI 0.24-1.19; P = 0.123). CONCLUSION We found no significant association between metformin use and OAG incidence in patients with T2DM in this population-based cohort study and meta-analysis. Further studies are needed to investigate the association between metformin use and the risk of OAG among patients with T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Kyu Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dankook University Hospital, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Wanhyung Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik Hee Ryu
- Department of Ophthalmology, B&VIIT Eye Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Kuk Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, B&VIIT Eye Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Tae Keun Yoo
- Department of Ophthalmology, B&VIIT Eye Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Refractive Surgery; VISUWORKS, B&VIIT Eye Center, B2 GT Tower, 1317-23, Seocho-Dong, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Medina-Vera D, López-Gambero AJ, Navarro JA, Sanjuan C, Baixeras E, Decara J, de Fonseca FR. Novel insights into D-Pinitol based therapies: a link between tau hyperphosphorylation and insulin resistance. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:289-295. [PMID: 37488880 PMCID: PMC10503604 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.379015] [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: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the amyloid accumulation in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. The pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease is mainly mediated by the phosphorylation and aggregation of tau protein. Among the multiple causes of tau hyperphosphorylation, brain insulin resistance has generated much attention, and inositols as insulin sensitizers, are currently considered candidates for drug development. The present narrative review revises the interactions between these three elements: Alzheimer's disease-tau-inositols, which can eventually identify targets for new disease modifiers capable of bringing hope to the millions of people affected by this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Medina-Vera
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, UGC Salud Mental, Málaga, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, UGC del Corazón, Málaga, Spain
| | - Antonio Jesús López-Gambero
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, UGC Salud Mental, Málaga, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, Bordeaux, France
| | - Juan Antonio Navarro
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, UGC Salud Mental, Málaga, Spain
| | | | - Elena Baixeras
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Juan Decara
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, UGC Salud Mental, Málaga, Spain
| | - Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, UGC Salud Mental, Málaga, Spain
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Shi Y, Sheng P, Guo M, Chen K, Zhao Y, Wang X, Wu M, Li B. Banxia Xiexin Decoction Prevents HT22 Cells from High Glucose-induced Neurotoxicity via JNK/SIRT1/Foxo3a Signaling Pathway. Curr Comput Aided Drug Des 2024; 20:911-927. [PMID: 37608672 DOI: 10.2174/1573409920666230822110258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction (DCD) is a chronic complication of diabetes that has gained international attention. The medicinal compound Banxia Xiexin Decoction (BXXXD) from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has shown potential in improving insulin resistance, regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), and inhibiting cell apoptosis through various pathways. However, the specific mechanism of action and medical value of BXXXD remain unclear. METHODS We utilized TCMSP databases to screen the chemical constituents of BXXXD and identified DCD disease targets through relevant databases. By using Stitch and String databases, we imported the data into Cytoscape 3.8.0 software to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and subsequently identified core targets through network topology analysis. The core targets were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. The results were further validated through in vitro experiments. RESULTS Network pharmacology analysis revealed the screening of 1490 DCD-related targets and 190 agents present in BXXXD. The topological analysis and enrichment analysis conducted using Cytoscape software identified 34 core targets. Additionally, GO and KEGG pathway analyses yielded 104 biological targets and 97 pathways, respectively. BXXXD exhibited its potential in treating DCD by controlling synaptic plasticity and conduction, suppressing apoptosis, reducing inflammation, and acting as an antioxidant. In a high glucose (HG) environment, the expression of JNK, Foxo3a, SIRT1, ATG7, Lamp2, and LC3 was downregulated. BXXXD intervention on HT22 cells potentially involved inhibiting excessive oxidative stress, promoting neuronal autophagy, and increasing the expression levels of JNK, SIRT1, Foxo3a, ATG7, Lamp2, and LC3. Furthermore, the neuroprotective effect of BXXXD was partially blocked by SP600125, while quercetin enhanced the favorable role of BXXXD in the HG environment. CONCLUSION BXXXD exerts its effects on DCD through multiple components, targets, levels, and pathways. It modulates the JNK/SIRT1/Foxo3a signaling pathway to mitigate autophagy inhibition and apoptotic damage in HT22 cells induced by HG. These findings provide valuable perspectives and concepts for future clinical trials and fundamental research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinli Shi
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Pei Sheng
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Ming Guo
- Southeast University, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kai Chen
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Zhao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xu Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Mianhua Wu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Bo Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Isop LM, Neculau AE, Necula RD, Kakucs C, Moga MA, Dima L. Metformin: The Winding Path from Understanding Its Molecular Mechanisms to Proving Therapeutic Benefits in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1714. [PMID: 38139841 PMCID: PMC10748332 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, has garnered increasing attention for its potential neuroprotective properties due to the growing demand for treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron diseases. This review synthesizes experimental and clinical studies on metformin's mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative disorders. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library, focused on key phrases such as "metformin", "neuroprotection", and "neurodegenerative diseases", with data up to September 2023. Recent research on metformin's glucoregulatory mechanisms reveals new molecular targets, including the activation of the LKB1-AMPK signaling pathway, which is crucial for chronic administration of metformin. The pleiotropic impact may involve other stress kinases that are acutely activated. The precise role of respiratory chain complexes (I and IV), of the mitochondrial targets, or of the lysosomes in metformin effects remains to be established by further research. Research on extrahepatic targets like the gut and microbiota, as well as its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, is crucial for understanding neurodegenerative disorders. Experimental data on animal models shows promising results, but clinical studies are inconclusive. Understanding the molecular targets and mechanisms of its effects could help design clinical trials to explore and, hopefully, prove its therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mihaela Isop
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Andrea Elena Neculau
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Radu Dan Necula
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Cristian Kakucs
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
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Pradhan SP, Sahu PK, Behera A. New insights toward molecular and nanotechnological approaches to antidiabetic agents for Alzheimer's disease. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:2739-2762. [PMID: 36949264 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04696-1] [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: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder affecting a major class of silver citizens. The disorder shares a mutual relationship on account of its cellular and molecular pathophysiology with type-II diabetes mellitus (DM). Chronic DM increases the risk for AD. Emerging evidence recommended that resistance in insulin production develops cognitive dysfunction, which generally leads to AD. Repurposing of antidiabetic drugs can be effective in preventing and treatment of the neurodegenerative disorder. Limitations of antidiabetic drugs restrict the repurposing of the drugs for other disorders. Therefore, nanotechnological intervention plays a significant role in the treatment of neurological disorders. In this review, we discuss the common cellular and molecular pathophysiologies between AD and type-II DM, the relevance of in vivo models of type II DM in the study of AD, and the repurposing of antidiabetic drugs and the nanodelivery systems of antidiabetic drugs against AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Priyadarshini Pradhan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Campus-II, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Pratap Kumar Sahu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Campus-II, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Anindita Behera
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Campus-II, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
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Fauzi A, Thoe ES, Quan TY, Yin ACY. Insights from insulin resistance pathways: Therapeutic approaches against Alzheimer associated diabetes mellitus. J Diabetes Complications 2023; 37:108629. [PMID: 37866274 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2023.108629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer Associated Diabetes Mellitus, commonly known as Type 3 Diabetes Mellitus (T3DM) is a distinct subtype of diabetes with a pronounced association with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Insulin resistance serves as a pivotal link between these two conditions, leading to diminished insulin sensitivity, hyperglycemia, and impaired glucose uptake. The brain, a vital organ in AD context, is also significantly impacted by insulin resistance, resulting in energy deficits and neuronal damage, which are hallmark features of the neurodegenerative disorder. To pave the way for potential therapeutic interventions targeting the insulin resistance pathway, it is crucial to comprehend the intricate pathophysiology of T3DM and identify the overlapped features between diabetes and AD. This comprehensive review article aims to explore various pathway such as AMPK, PPARγ, cAMP and P13K/Akt pathway as potential target for management of T3DM. Through the analysis of these complex mechanisms, our goal is to reveal their interdependencies and support the discovery of innovative therapeutic strategies. The review extensively discusses several promising pharmaceutical candidates that have demonstrated dual drug action mechanisms, addressing both peripheral and cerebral insulin resistance observed in T3DM. These candidates hold significant promise for restoring insulin function and mitigating the detrimental effects of insulin resistance on the brain. The exploration of these therapeutic options contributes to the development of innovative interventions that alleviate the burden of T3DM and enhance patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Fauzi
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Ewen Se Thoe
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Tang Yin Quan
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; Medical Advancement for Better Quality of Life Impact Lab, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Adeline Chia Yoke Yin
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; Medical Advancement for Better Quality of Life Impact Lab, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
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Li Y, Chen J, Tu H, Ma Q, Wang M, Chen J, Chen M. Protective effects of GuanXinNing tablet (GXNT) on diabetic encephalopathy in zucker diabetic obesity (ZDF) rats. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:385. [PMID: 37891536 PMCID: PMC10605859 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04195-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is a complication of diabetes that leads to cognitive and behavioral decline. Utilizing safe and effective complementary and alternative medications for its management is a wise choice. Previous studies have shown that GuanXinNing Tablet (GXNT), an oral preparation primarily derived from two Chinese herbs, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. and Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort., exerts a beneficial neuroprotective effect. In this study, we explored the protective effects of GXNT on DE in male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats induced by a high-fat diet, aiming to ascertain its significance and potential mechanisms. METHODS ZDF rats were induced to develop type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with DE by a high-fat diet and treated with GXNT for 8 weeks until they were 20 weeks old. Throughout the experiment, the animals' vital parameters, such as body weight, were continuously monitored. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Y maze test. Biochemical kits were employed to analyze blood glucose, lipids, and vascular endothelial-related factors. Cerebrovascular lesions were assessed using magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) imaging. Brain lesions were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and ultrastructure observation. IgG and albumin (ALB) leakage were detected using immunofluorescence. RESULTS GXNT demonstrated an enhancement in the overall well-being of the animals. It notably improved cognitive and behavioral abilities, as demonstrated by extended retention time in the novel heterogeneous arm during the Y-maze test. GXNT effectively regulated glucose and lipid metabolism, reducing fasting and postprandial blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and total cholesterol (TC) levels. Additionally, it exhibited a protective effect on the vascular endothelium by reducing the serum TXB2/PGI2 ratio while elevating NO and PGI2 levels. Moreover, GXNT ameliorated stenosis and occlusion in cerebral vessel branches, increased the number of microvessels and neurons around the hippocampus, and improved microvascular occlusion in the cerebral cortex, along with addressing perivascular cell abnormalities. Immunofluorescence staining showed a decrease in the fluorescence intensity of IgG and ALB in the cerebral cortex. CONCLUSIONS GXNT demonstrated a highly satisfactory protective effect on DE in ZDF rats. Its mechanism of action could be based on the regulation of glucolipid metabolism and its protective effect on the vascular endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajing Li
- The Department of Biopharmaceutical Technology, Zhejiang Institute of Economics and Trade, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
- Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Haiye Tu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Quanxin Ma
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Mulan Wang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
- The Department of Medicine, Chiatai Qingchunbao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Vasculocardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
| | - Minli Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, Experimental Animal Research Center, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
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Pang Y, Zhu S, Xu J, Su C, Wu B, Zhang C, Gao J. Myeloid Cells As a Promising Target for Brain-Bone Degenerative Diseases from a Metabolic Point of View. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200321. [PMID: 36750967 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200321] [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: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Brain and bone degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and osteoporosis are common in the aging population and lack efficient pharmacotherapies. Myeloid cells are a diverse group of mononuclear cells that plays important roles in development, immune defense, and tissue homeostasis. Aging drastically alters the expansion and function of myeloid cells, which might be a common pathogenesis of the brain-bone degenerative diseases. From this perspective, the role of myeloid cells in brain-bone degenerative diseases is discussed, with a particular focus on metabolic alterations in myeloid cells. Furthermore, targeting myeloid cells through metabolic regulation via drugs such as metformin and melatonin is proposed as a potential therapy for the clinical treatment of brain-bone diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidan Pang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Siyuan Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Cuimin Su
- Jinjiang Municipal Hospital (Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Fujian), No. 16, Luoshan Section, Jinguang Road, Luoshan Street, Jinjiang City, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362200, China
| | - Bo Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Changqing Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Junjie Gao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, Shanghai, 200233, China
- Jinjiang Municipal Hospital (Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Fujian), No. 16, Luoshan Section, Jinguang Road, Luoshan Street, Jinjiang City, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362200, China
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Zhao X, Bie LY, Pang DR, Li X, Yang LF, Chen DD, Wang YR, Gao Y. The role of autophagy in the treatment of type II diabetes and its complications: a review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1228045. [PMID: 37810881 PMCID: PMC10551182 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1228045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by prolonged hyperglycemia and insulin resistance (IR). Its incidence is increasing annually, posing a significant threat to human life and health. Consequently, there is an urgent requirement to discover effective drugs and investigate the pathogenesis of T2DM. Autophagy plays a crucial role in maintaining normal islet structure. However, in a state of high glucose, autophagy is inhibited, resulting in impaired islet function, insulin resistance, and complications. Studies have shown that modulating autophagy through activation or inhibition can have a positive impact on the treatment of T2DM and its complications. However, it is important to note that the specific regulatory mechanisms vary depending on the target organ. This review explores the role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of T2DM, taking into account both genetic and external factors. It also provides a summary of reported chemical drugs and traditional Chinese medicine that target the autophagic pathway for the treatment of T2DM and its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhao
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Lu-Yao Bie
- Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Dao-Ran Pang
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Long-Fei Yang
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Dan-Dan Chen
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yue-Rui Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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Kang X, Wang D, Zhang L, Huang T, Liu S, Feng X, Guo Y, Zhang Z, Wang Z, Ren H, Yuan G. Exendin-4 ameliorates tau hyperphosphorylation and cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetes through acting on Wnt/β-catenin/NeuroD1 pathway. Mol Med 2023; 29:118. [PMID: 37667187 PMCID: PMC10478475 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00718-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is an independent risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Exendin-4 (Ex-4), a widely used glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist drug in the treatment of T2D, has been demonstrated the therapeutic effects on diabetic encephalopathy (DE). Especially, the Ex-4 ameliorates the tau hyperphosphorylation and cognitive impairment in DE. And these crucial alterations are also important bridge between T2D and AD. However, its unique mechanism is unclear. METHODS The db/db mice, high-fat-diet (HFD) / streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic (HF-diabetic) mice, and high-glucose-damaged (HGD) HT-22 hippocampal cells were enrolled to examine the effects of Ex-4 on AD-like changes in T2D. The Novel object recognition test (NORT) and Morris water maze test (MWMT) were conducted to evaluate the cognitive impairment. The Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) was employed to weaken the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to explore the mechanism of Ex-4 in protecting the brain functions. The JASPAR was based to predict the interaction between NeuroD1 and the promoter region of Ins2. Moreover, the chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ChIP-qPCR) and luciferase reporter assays were performed. RESULTS Ex-4 alleviated the tau hyperphosphorylation, increased the brain-derived insulin, and improved the PI3K/AKT/GSK3-β signalling in db/db mice, HF-diabetic mice, and HGD HT-22 hippocampal neuronal cells. The NORT and MWMT indicated that Ex-4 alleviated the learning and memory deficits in HF-diabetic mice. The inhibitor Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway significantly blocked the protective effects of Ex-4. Regarding further molecular mechanisms, NeuroD1 was affected by Ex-4 in vivo and in vitro, and the knockdown or overexpression of NeuroD1 suggested its crucial role in promoting the brain insulin by Ex-4. Meanwhile, the ChIP‒qPCR and luciferase reporter assays confirmed the combination between NeuroD1 and the promoter region of the insulin-encoding gene Ins2. And this interaction could be promoted by Ex-4. CONCLUSIONS Our study proposes that Ex-4 alleviates tau hyperphosphorylation and cognitive dysfunction by increasing Ins2-derived brain insulin through the Wnt/β-catenin/NeuroD1 signaling in T2D. And its also show new lights on part of the progress and mechanism on treatment targets for the DE in T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Kang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Teng Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Siyue Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaohui Feng
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yaoyao Guo
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ziyin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Zhongjing Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Huihui Ren
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Disease, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Gang Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Disease, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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Goodarzi G, Tehrani SS, Fana SE, Moradi-Sardareh H, Panahi G, Maniati M, Meshkani R. Crosstalk between Alzheimer's disease and diabetes: a focus on anti-diabetic drugs. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:1769-1800. [PMID: 37335453 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01225-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are two of the most common age-related diseases. There is accumulating evidence of an overlap in the pathophysiological mechanisms of these two diseases. Studies have demonstrated insulin pathway alternation may interact with amyloid-β protein deposition and tau protein phosphorylation, two essential factors in AD. So attention to the use of anti-diabetic drugs in AD treatment has increased in recent years. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies have evaluated possible neuroprotective effects of anti-diabetic different medicines in AD, with some promising results. Here we review the evidence on the therapeutic potential of insulin, metformin, Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP1R), thiazolidinediones (TZDs), Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV (DPP IV) Inhibitors, Sulfonylureas, Sodium-glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors, Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, and Amylin analog against AD. Given that many questions remain unanswered, further studies are required to confirm the positive effects of anti-diabetic drugs in AD treatment. So to date, no particular anti-diabetic drugs can be recommended to treat AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golnaz Goodarzi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pathobiology and Laboratory Sciences, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Sadra Samavarchi Tehrani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Ebrahimi Fana
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ghodratollah Panahi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Maniati
- English Department, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza Meshkani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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25
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Karami F, Jamaati H, Coleman-Fuller N, Zeini MS, Hayes AW, Gholami M, Salehirad M, Darabi M, Motaghinejad M. Is metformin neuroprotective against diabetes mellitus-induced neurodegeneration? An updated graphical review of molecular basis. Pharmacol Rep 2023; 75:511-543. [PMID: 37093496 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00469-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease that activates several molecular pathways involved in neurodegenerative disorders. Metformin, an anti-hyperglycemic drug used for treating DM, has the potential to exert a significant neuroprotective role against the detrimental effects of DM. This review discusses recent clinical and laboratory studies investigating the neuroprotective properties of metformin against DM-induced neurodegeneration and the roles of various molecular pathways, including mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and its related cascades. A literature search was conducted from January 2000 to December 2022 using multiple databases including Web of Science, Wiley, Springer, PubMed, Elsevier Science Direct, Google Scholar, the Core Collection, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library to collect and evaluate peer-reviewed literature regarding the neuroprotective role of metformin against DM-induced neurodegenerative events. The literature search supports the conclusion that metformin is neuroprotective against DM-induced neuronal cell degeneration in both peripheral and central nervous systems, and this effect is likely mediated via modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Karami
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Jamaati
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Natalie Coleman-Fuller
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, 55108, USA
| | - Maryam Shokrian Zeini
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Wallace Hayes
- University of South Florida College of Public Health and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
| | - Mina Gholami
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Salehirad
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), Amir-Almomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Darabi
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Motaghinejad
- Chronic Respiratory Disease Research Center (CRDRC), National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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26
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Autophagy, a relevant process for metabolic health and type-2 diabetes. NUTR HOSP 2023; 40:457-464. [PMID: 36927007 DOI: 10.20960/nh.04555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a very active process that plays an important role in cell and organ differentiation and remodelling, being a crucial system to guarantee health. This physiological process is activated in starvation and inhibited in the presence of nutrients. This short review comments on the three types of autophagy: macroautophagy, microautophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy, as well as different aspects that control autophagy and its relationship with health and degenerative diseases. As autophagy is highly dependent on functional autophagy (ATG) proteins integrating the phagophore, the role of some key ATG genes and epigenes are briefly commented on. The manuscript deepens discussing some central aspects of type-2 diabetes mellitus and their relationship with the cell cleaning process and mitochondria homeostasis maintenance, as well as the mechanisms through which antidiabetic drugs affect autophagy. Well-designed studies are needed to elucidate whether autophagy plays a casual or causal role in T2DM.
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Zhao S, Fan Z, Zhang X, Li Z, Shen T, Li K, Yan Y, Yuan Y, Pu J, Tian J, Liu Z, Chen Y, Zhang B. Metformin Attenuates Tau Pathology in Tau-Seeded PS19 Mice. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:452-463. [PMID: 36422837 PMCID: PMC10121992 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01316-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) composed of hyperphosphorylated tau is a histopathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related tauopathies. Growing evidence demonstrated that tau pathology in AD spreads in a prion-like manner. Previous studies showed that metformin might have a positive effect on cognition. However, the underlying mechanisms are still unknown. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of metformin on tau propagation. Brain extracts containing tau aggregates were unilaterally injected into the hippocampus and the overlying cerebral cortex of PS19 mice. Metformin was administrated through drinking water for four months, and we observed tau spreading in the brain of tau-seeded PS19 mice. Metformin inhibited the spreading of tau pathology in the ipsilateral hemisphere, attenuated tau pathology in the contralateral hemisphere, and reduced the hyperphosphorylation of tau at Ser202/Thr205, Thr231, and Ser422 sites in the soluble fraction and Ser202/Thr205, Ser262, Thr396, Thr231, and Ser422 sites in the insoluble fraction of tau-seeded PS19 mice brains. Metformin did not affect tau kinases or phosphatase 2A protein levels but reduced mTORC1 protein levels. Additionally, metformin reduced learning and memory deficits of the tau-seeded PS19 mice. These findings indicate that metformin reduced tau hyperphosphorylation, attenuated tau pathology in tau-seeded PS19 mice, and improved learning and memory deficits. These findings highlight the potential mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of metformin on cognition, implying that metformin could be a promising drug for the prevention and early treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqi Fan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheyu Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Shen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaicheng Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaping Yan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunfeng Yuan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiali Pu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Tian
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhirong Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanxing Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baorong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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28
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Yang L, Nao J. Focus on Alzheimer's Disease: The Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 and Autophagy. Neuroscience 2023; 511:13-28. [PMID: 36372296 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a disorder of the central nervous system that is typically marked by progressive cognitive impairment and memory loss. Amyloid β plaque deposition and neurofibrillary tangles with hyperphosphorylated tau are the two hallmark pathologies of AD. In mammalian cells, autophagy clears aberrant protein aggregates, thus maintaining proteostasis as well as neuronal health. Autophagy affects production and metabolism of amyloid β and accumulation of phosphorylated tau proteins, whose malfunction can lead to the progression of AD. On the other hand, defective autophagy has been found to induce the production of the neuroprotective factor fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), although the underlying mechanism is unclear. In this review, we highlight the significance of aberrant autophagy in the pathogenesis of AD, discuss the possible mechanisms by which defective autophagy induces FGF21 production, and analyze the potential of FGF21 in the treatment of AD. The findings provide some insights into the potential role of FGF21 and autophagy in the pathogenesis of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jianfei Nao
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
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Cullinane PW, de Pablo Fernandez E, König A, Outeiro TF, Jaunmuktane Z, Warner TT. Type 2 Diabetes and Parkinson's Disease: A Focused Review of Current Concepts. Mov Disord 2023; 38:162-177. [PMID: 36567671 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly reproducible epidemiological evidence shows that type 2 diabetes (T2D) increases the risk and rate of progression of Parkinson's disease (PD), and crucially, the repurposing of certain antidiabetic medications for the treatment of PD has shown early promise in clinical trials, suggesting that the effects of T2D on PD pathogenesis may be modifiable. The high prevalence of T2D means that a significant proportion of patients with PD may benefit from personalized antidiabetic treatment approaches that also confer neuroprotective benefits. Therefore, there is an immediate need to better understand the mechanistic relation between these conditions and the specific molecular pathways affected by T2D in the brain. Although there is considerable evidence that processes such as insulin signaling, mitochondrial function, autophagy, and inflammation are involved in the pathogenesis of both PD and T2D, the primary aim of this review is to highlight the evidence showing that T2D-associated dysregulation of these pathways occurs not only in the periphery but also in the brain and how this may facilitate neurodegeneration in PD. We also discuss the challenges involved in disentangling the complex relationship between T2D, insulin resistance, and PD, as well as important questions for further research. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick W Cullinane
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.,Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies and Queen Square Brain Bank for Neurological Disorders, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eduardo de Pablo Fernandez
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.,Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies and Queen Square Brain Bank for Neurological Disorders, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Annekatrin König
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Tiago Fleming Outeiro
- Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration, Center for Biostructural Imaging of Neurodegeneration, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.,Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom.,Scientific Employee with an Honorary Contract at Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Zane Jaunmuktane
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.,Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies and Queen Square Brain Bank for Neurological Disorders, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuropathology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Queen Square Movement Disorders Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas T Warner
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom.,Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies and Queen Square Brain Bank for Neurological Disorders, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Queen Square Movement Disorders Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
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Mitophagy in Alzheimer's disease: Molecular defects and therapeutic approaches. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:202-216. [PMID: 35665766 PMCID: PMC9812780 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01631-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunctions are central players in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In addition, impairments in mitophagy, the process of selective mitochondrial degradation by autophagy leading to a gradual accumulation of defective mitochondria, have also been reported to occur in AD. We provide an updated overview of the recent discoveries and advancements on mitophagic molecular dysfunctions in AD-derived fluids and cells as well as in AD brains. We discuss studies using AD cellular and animal models that have unraveled the contribution of relevant AD-related proteins (Tau, Aβ, APP-derived fragments and APOE) in mitophagy failure. In accordance with the important role of impaired mitophagy in AD, we report on various therapeutic strategies aiming at stimulating mitophagy in AD and we summarize the benefits of these potential therapeutic strategies in human clinical trials.
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31
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He DL, Fan YG, Wang ZY. Energy Crisis Links to Autophagy and Ferroptosis in Alzheimer's Disease: Current Evidence and Future Avenues. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:67-86. [PMID: 35980072 PMCID: PMC10193753 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220817140737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases worldwide. The occult nature of the onset and the uncertainty of the etiology largely impede the development of therapeutic strategies for AD. Previous studies revealed that the disorder of energy metabolism in the brains of AD patients appears far earlier than the typical pathological features of AD, suggesting a tight association between energy crisis and the onset of AD. Energy crisis in the brain is known to be induced by the reductions in glucose uptake and utilization, which may be ascribed to the diminished expressions of cerebral glucose transporters (GLUTs), insulin resistance, mitochondrial dysfunctions, and lactate dysmetabolism. Notably, the energy sensors such as peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor (PPAR), transcription factor EB (TFEB), and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) were shown to be the critical regulators of autophagy, which play important roles in regulating beta-amyloid (Aβ) metabolism, tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation, iron dynamics, as well as ferroptosis. In this study, we summarized the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms involved in the energy dysmetabolism of AD and discussed the interplays existing between energy crisis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. In addition, we highlighted the potential network in which autophagy may serve as a bridge between energy crisis and ferroptosis in the progression of AD. A deeper understanding of the relationship between energy dysmetabolism and AD may provide new insight into developing strategies for treating AD; meanwhile, the energy crisis in the progression of AD should gain more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Long He
- Key Laboratory of Major Chronic Diseases of Nervous System of Liaoning Province, Health Sciences Institute of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology of Ministry of Education, Health Sciences Institute of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Yong-Gang Fan
- Key Laboratory of Major Chronic Diseases of Nervous System of Liaoning Province, Health Sciences Institute of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology of Ministry of Education, Health Sciences Institute of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Zhan-You Wang
- Key Laboratory of Major Chronic Diseases of Nervous System of Liaoning Province, Health Sciences Institute of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology of Ministry of Education, Health Sciences Institute of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
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32
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Wang Y, Hu H, Liu X, Guo X. Hypoglycemic medicines in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: Pathophysiological links between AD and glucose metabolism. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1138499. [PMID: 36909158 PMCID: PMC9995522 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1138499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a global chronic disease in adults with beta-amyloid (Aβ) deposits and hyperphosphorylated tau protein as the pathologic characteristics. Although the exact etiology of AD is still not fully elucidated, aberrant metabolism including insulin signaling and mitochondria dysfunction plays an important role in the development of AD. Binding to insulin receptor substrates, insulin can transport through the blood-brain barrier (BBB), thus mediating insulin signaling pathways to regulate physiological functions. Impaired insulin signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt/GSK3β and MAPK pathways, could cause damage to the brain in the pathogenesis of AD. Mitochondrial dysfunction and overexpression of TXNIP could also be causative links between AD and DM. Some antidiabetic medicines may have benefits in the treatment of AD. Metformin can be beneficial for cognition improvement in AD patients, although results from clinical trials were inconsistent. Exendin-4 may affect AD in animal models but there is a lack of clinical trials. Liraglutide and dulaglutide could also benefit AD patients in adequate clinical studies but not semaglutide. Dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors (DPP4is) such as saxagliptin, vildagliptin, linagliptin, and sitagliptin could boost cognitive function in animal models. And SGLT2 inhibitors such as empagliflozin and dapagliflozin were also considerably protective against new-onset dementia in T2DM patients. Insulin therapy is a promising therapy but some studies indicated that it may increase the risk of AD. Herbal medicines are helpful for cognitive function and neuroprotection in the brain. For example, polyphenols, alkaloids, glycosides, and flavonoids have protective benefits in cognition function and glucose metabolism. Focusing on glucose metabolism, we summarized the pharmacological mechanism of hypoglycemic drugs and herbal medicines. New treatment approaches including antidiabetic synthesized drugs and herbal medicines would be provided to patients with AD. More clinical trials are needed to produce definite evidence for the effectiveness of hypoglycemic medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Wang
- Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Guo
- Dongfang Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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A blast from the past: To tame time with metformin. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 208:111743. [PMID: 36279989 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The strong evidence of metformin use in subjects affected by type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on health outcomes, together with data from pre-clinical studies, has led the gerontological research to study the therapeutic potential of such a drug as a slow-aging strategy. However, despite clinical use for over fifty years as an anti-diabetic drug, the mechanisms of action beyond glycemic control remain unclear. In this review, we have deeply examined the literature, doing a narrative review from the metformin story, through mechanisms of action to slow down aging potential, from lower organisms to humans. Based on the available evidence, we conclude that metformin, as shown in lower organisms and mice, may be effective in humans' longevity. A complete analysis and follow-up of ongoing clinical trials may provide more definitive answers as to whether metformin should be promoted beyond its use to treat T2DM as a drug that enhances both healthspan and lifespan.
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Pasqualetti G, Thayanandan T, Edison P. Influence of genetic and cardiometabolic risk factors in Alzheimer's disease. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 81:101723. [PMID: 36038112 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder. Cardiometabolic and genetic risk factors play an important role in the trajectory of AD. Cardiometabolic risk factors including diabetes, mid-life obesity, mid-life hypertension and elevated cholesterol have been linked with cognitive decline in AD subjects. These potential risk factors associated with cerebral metabolic changes which fuel AD pathogenesis have been suggested to be the reason for the disappointing clinical trial results. In appreciation of the risks involved, using search engines such as PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE and Google Scholar, a relevant literature search on cardiometabolic and genetic risk factors in AD was conducted. We discuss the role of genetic as well as established cardiovascular risk factors in the neuropathology of AD. Moreover, we show new evidence of genetic interaction between several genes potentially involved in different pathways related to both neurodegenerative process and cardiovascular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tony Thayanandan
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Paul Edison
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK; School of Medicine, Cardiff University, UK.
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35
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Zhang P, Maimaiti Z, Aili G, Yuan F, Xiao H. Vitis vinifera L. Flavones Regulate Hippocampal Neurons via Autophagy in APP/PS1 Alzheimer Model Mice. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2022; 2022:8554184. [PMID: 36091589 PMCID: PMC9458394 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8554184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease and our current treatment approach can only delay its course rather than cure it completely. Flavones from Vitis vinifera L. have been reported to promote synaptic plasticity and indirectly affect the expression of cholinergic neurotransmitters in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease. Objective The aim of the study is to explore the effect of Vitis vinifera L. in APP/PS1 Alzheimer model mice. Methods APP/PS1 AD mice were used as the research subjects, and the mice were divided into a model group, donepezil group, VTF low-dose group, VTF medium-dose group, and VTF high-dose group. C57BL/6 mice served as a control group. The autophagosomes were observed by a transmission electron microscope, and the expressions of LC3I, LC3IIand Beclin-1 were determined by Western blotting. The results of qRT-PCR are consistent with Western blotting. Results VTF can exert a positive regulatory effect on AD mice by inhibiting autophagy. Conclusion Our study supports that intragastrically administration of VTF is effective and operable in Alzheimer's disease mice, and that inhibition of excessive autophagy may be one of the potential reasons why VTF exerts a therapeutic effect on AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Znafuguli Maimaiti
- College of Basic Medical, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Gulixiati Aili
- College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Fang Yuan
- College of Basic Medical, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Hui Xiao
- College of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
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36
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Cheng X, Wei Y, Qian Z, Han L. Autophagy Balances Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's Disease. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022; 43:1537-1549. [PMID: 35960407 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01269-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly evolutionary conserved process that degrades cytosolic macromolecules or damaged organelles (e.g., mitochondria), as well as intracellular pathogens for energy and survival. Dysfunction of autophagy has been associated with the pathologies of Alzheimer's disease (AD), including Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Recently, the presence of sustained immune response in the brain has been considered a new core pathology in AD. Accumulating evidence suggests that autophagy activation may suppress inflammation response through degrading inflammasomes or pro-inflammatory cytokines and improving immune system function in both clinical trials and preclinical studies. This review provides an overview of updated information on autophagy and inflammation and their potential mediators in AD. In summary, we believe that understanding the relationship between autophagy and inflammation will provide insightful knowledge for future therapeutic implications in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehua Cheng
- Department of TCM Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Wei
- GeneScience Pharmaceuticals CoLtd., Changchun, 130012, People's Republic of China
| | - Zijun Qian
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200071, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Han
- Department of TCM Geriatrics, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China.
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Tian R, Liu X, Jing L, Yang L, Xie N, Hou Y, Tao H, Tao Y, Wu J, Meng X. Huang-Lian-Jie-Du decoction attenuates cognitive dysfunction of rats with type 2 diabetes by regulating autophagy and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 292:115196. [PMID: 35337922 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Huang-Lian-Jie-Du decoction (HLJDD) is a traditional Chinese formula that is efficacious in treating diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetic encephalopathy; the underlying mechanisms of HLJDD in diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction remain unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of HLJDD on cognitive function, and the possible underlying mechanisms in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a rat model of cognitive impairment. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twelve active ingredients in HLJDD were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. An animal model of cognitive dysfunction in T2DM was induced via a high-sugar and high-fat diet combined with a low dose of streptozotocin. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, T2DM, metformin (0.34 g/kg/day), and HLJDD groups (3, 1.5, and 0.75 g/kg/day). All treatments were intragastrically administrated for nine continuous weeks after the development of T2DM. Body weight, food and water intake, fasting blood glucose, insulin sensitivity, and blood lipid levels were measured. Spatial learning and memory of the rats were assessed using the Morris water maze test. Hematoxylin and eosin and Nissl staining were performed to evaluate neuronal morphology and vitality. Glutathione, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase levels were measured to determine the level of oxidative stress in the hippocampus. Transmission electron microscopy was performed to observe the synaptic morphology and structure of hippocampal neurons. IL-1β levels in the hippocampus and cerebrospinal fluid were determined. The protein expression of NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, mature IL-1β, ATG7, P62, LC3, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was determined using western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis. RESULTS HLJDD attenuated cognitive dysfunction in rats with T2DM as shown by the decreased escape latency, increased times crossing the platform and time spent in the target quadrant in the Morris water maze test (P < 0.05), improvement in hippocampal histopathological changes, and an elevated level of cell vitality. HLJDD treatment also reduced blood glucose and lipid levels, ameliorated oxidative stress, and downregulated IL-1β expression in the hippocampus and cerebrospinal fluid (P < 0.05). Moreover, HLJDD enhanced BDNF, ATG7, and LC3 protein expression and significantly inhibited the expression of P62, NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, and mature IL-1β in the hippocampal CA1 region (P < 0.05). Immunofluorescence results further confirmed that the fluorescence intensity of NLRP3 and P62 in the hippocampus decreased after HLJDD intervention (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS HLJDD ameliorated cognitive dysfunction in T2DM rats. The neuroprotective effect is exerted via the modulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, upregulation of autophagy, and inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruimin Tian
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; Department of Pharmacology, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Xianfeng Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Lijia Jing
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Lu Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Na Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Ya Hou
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Honglin Tao
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Yiwen Tao
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Jiasi Wu
- Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Xianli Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
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Du MR, Gao QY, Liu CL, Bai LY, Li T, Wei FL. Exploring the Pharmacological Potential of Metformin for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:838173. [PMID: 35557834 PMCID: PMC9087341 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.838173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin, one of the first-line of hypoglycemic drugs, has cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, in addition to its proven hypoglycemic effects. Furthermore, the preventive and therapeutic potential of metformin for neurodegenerative diseases has become a topic of concern. Increasing research suggests that metformin can prevent the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In recent years, many studies have investigated the neuroprotective effect of metformin in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. It has been revealed that metformin can play a neuroprotective role by regulating energy metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory response and protein deposition of cells, and avoiding neuronal dysfunction and neuronal death. On the contrary, some have hypothesized that metformin has a two-sided effect which may accelerate the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, the results of animal experiments and clinical studies are reviewed to discuss the application prospects of metformin in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Rui Du
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Quan-You Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chen-Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Biotechnology Center, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin-Ya Bai
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fei-Long Wei
- Department of Orthopedics, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Mechanisms of Mitochondrial Malfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease: New Therapeutic Hope. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:4759963. [PMID: 35607703 PMCID: PMC9124149 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4759963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a critical role in neuron viability or death as it regulates energy metabolism and cell death pathways. They are essential for cellular energy metabolism, reactive oxygen species production, apoptosis, Ca++ homeostasis, aging, and regeneration. Mitophagy and mitochondrial dynamics are thus essential processes in the quality control of mitochondria. Improvements in several fundamental features of mitochondrial biology in susceptible neurons of AD brains and the putative underlying mechanisms of such changes have made significant progress. AD's etiology has been reported by mitochondrial malfunction and oxidative damage. According to several recent articles, a continual fusion and fission balance of mitochondria is vital in their normal function maintenance. As a result, the shape and function of mitochondria are inextricably linked. This study examines evidence suggesting that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant early impact on AD pathology. Furthermore, the dynamics and roles of mitochondria are discussed with the link between mitochondrial malfunction and autophagy in AD has also been explored. In addition, recent research on mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy in AD is also discussed in this review. It also goes into how these flaws affect mitochondrial quality control. Furthermore, advanced therapy techniques and lifestyle adjustments that lead to improved management of the dynamics have been demonstrated, hence improving the conditions that contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction in AD.
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40
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Islam M, Shen F, Regmi D, Du D. Therapeutic strategies for tauopathies and drug repurposing as a potential approach. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 198:114979. [PMID: 35219701 PMCID: PMC9159505 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Tauopathies are neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the deposition of abnormal tau in the brain. To date, there are no disease-modifying therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) for the treatment of tauopathies. In the past decades, extensive efforts have been provided to develop disease-modifying therapies to treat tauopathies. Specifically, exploring existing drugs with the intent of repurposing for the treatment of tauopathies affords a reasonable alternative to discover potent drugs for treating these formidable diseases. Drug repurposing will not only reduce formulation and development stage effort and cost but will also take a key advantage of the established toxicological studies, which is one of the main causes of clinical trial failure of new molecules. In this review, we provide an overview of the current treatment strategies for tauopathies and the recent progress in drug repurposing as an alternative approach to treat tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majedul Islam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States.
| | - Fengyun Shen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States
| | - Deepika Regmi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States
| | - Deguo Du
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States.
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41
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Sanati M, Aminyavari S, Afshari AR, Sahebkar A. Mechanistic insight into the role of metformin in Alzheimer's disease. Life Sci 2022; 291:120299. [PMID: 34999113 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a type of dementia, is characterized by progressive memory decline and cognition impairment. Despite the considerable body of evidence regarding AD pathophysiology, current therapies merely slow down the disease progression, and a comprehensive therapeutic approach is unavailable. Accordingly, finding an efficient multifunctional remedy is necessary to blunt the increasing rate of AD incidence in the upcoming years. AD shares pathophysiological similarities (e.g., impairment of cognitive functions, insulin sensitivity, and brain glucose metabolism) with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), which offers the utilization of metformin, a biguanide hypoglycemic agent, as an alternative therapeutic approach in AD therapy. Emerging evidence has revealed the impact of metformin in patients suffering from AD. It has been described that metformin employs multiple mechanisms to improve cognition and memory impairment in pre-clinical AD models, including reduction of hippocampal amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) load, suppression of inflammation, amelioration of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, restriction of apoptotic neuronal death, and induction of neurogenesis. This review discusses the pre-clinical evidence, which may shed light on the role of metformin in AD and provide a more comprehensive mechanistic insight for future studies in this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Sanati
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Samaneh Aminyavari
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir R Afshari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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42
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Potential role of Drug Repositioning Strategy (DRS) for management of tauopathy. Life Sci 2022; 291:120267. [PMID: 34974076 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Tauopathy is a term that has been used to represent a pathological condition in which hyperphosphorylated tau protein aggregates in neurons and glia which results in neurodegeneration, synapse loss and dysfunction and cognitive impairments. Recently, drug repositioning strategy (DRS) becomes a promising field and an alternative approach to advancing new treatments from actually developed and FDA approved drugs for an indication other than the indication it was originally intended for. This paradigm provides an advantage because the safety of the candidate compound has already been established, which abolishes the need for further preclinical safety testing and thus substantially reduces the time and cost involved in progressing of clinical trials. In the present review, we focused on correlation between tauopathy and common diseases as type 2 diabetes mellitus and the global virus COVID-19 and how tau pathology can aggravate development of these diseases in addition to how these diseases can be a risk factor for development of tauopathy. Moreover, correlation between COVID-19 and type 2 diabetes mellitus was also discussed. Therefore, repositioning of a drug in the daily clinical practice of patients to manage or prevent two or more diseases at the same time with lower side effects and drug-drug interactions is a promising idea. This review concluded the results of pre-clinical and clinical studies applied on antidiabetics, COVID-19 medications, antihypertensives, antidepressants and cholesterol lowering drugs for possible drug repositioning for management of tauopathy.
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43
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Metformin in Alzheimer’s disease: An overview of potential mechanisms, preclinical and clinical findings. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 197:114945. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Ning P, Luo A, Mu X, Xu Y, Li T. Exploring the dual character of metformin in Alzheimer's disease. Neuropharmacology 2022; 207:108966. [PMID: 35077762 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.108966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, which results in dementia typically in the elderly. The disease is mainly characterized by the deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the brain. However, only few drugs are available for AD because of its unknown pathological mechanism which limits the development of new drugs. Therefore, it is urgent to identify potential therapeutic strategies for AD. Moreover, research have showed that there is a significant association between Type 2 diabetes mellites (T2DM) and AD, suggesting that the two diseases may share common pathophysiological mechanisms. Such mechanisms include impaired insulin signaling, altered glucose metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and premature aging, which strongly affect cognitive function and increased risk of dementia. Consequently, as a widely used drug for T2DM, metformin also has therapeutic potential for AD in vivo. It has been confirmed that metformin is beneficial on the brain of AD animal models. The mechanisms underlying the effects of metformin in Alzheimer's disease are complex and multifaceted. Metformin may work through mechanisms involving homeostasis of glucose metabolism, decrease of amyloid plaque deposition, normalization of tau protein phosphorylation and enhancement of autophagy. However, in clinical trials, metformin had little effects on patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild AD. Pathological effects and negative clinical results of metformin on AD make the current topic quite controversial. By reviewing the latest progress of related research, this paper summarizes the possible role of metformin in AD. The purpose of this study is not only to determine the potential treatment of AD, but also other related neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Ning
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Anling Luo
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Xin Mu
- Department of Neurology, Chengdu First People's Hospital, 18 Wanxiang North Road, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Yanming Xu
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610041, PR China.
| | - Tian Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University/Air Force Medical University, No. 169 Changle West Rd, Xi'an, 710032, PR China.
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Katsenos AP, Davri AS, Simos YV, Nikas IP, Bekiari C, Paschou SA, Peschos D, Konitsiotis S, Vezyraki P, Tsamis KI. New treatment approaches for Alzheimer's disease: preclinical studies and clinical trials centered on antidiabetic drugs. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:105-123. [PMID: 34941464 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2022122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represent two major chronic diseases that affect a large percentage of the population and share common pathogenetic mechanisms, including oxidative stress and inflammation. Considering their common mechanistic aspects, and given the current lack of effective therapies for AD, accumulating research has focused on the therapeutic potential of antidiabetic drugs in the treatment or prevention of AD. AREAS COVERED This review examines the latest preclinical and clinical evidence on the potential of antidiabetic drugs as candidates for AD treatment. Numerous approved drugs for T2DM, including insulin, metformin, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), and sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), are in the spotlight and may constitute novel approaches for AD treatment. EXPERT OPINION Among other pharmacologic agents, GLP-1 RA and SGLT2i have so far exhibited promising results as novel treatment approaches for AD, while current research has centered on deciphering their action on the central nervous system (CNS). Further investigation is crucial to reveal the most effective pharmacological agents and their optimal combinations, maximize their beneficial effects on neurons, and find ways to increase their distribution to the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas P Katsenos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology Research Group, University of Ioannina, Greece
| | - Athena S Davri
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Yannis V Simos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology Research Group, University of Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ilias P Nikas
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Chryssa Bekiari
- Laboratory of Anatomy and Histology, school of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stavroula A Paschou
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Centre, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Peschos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology Research Group, University of Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Patra Vezyraki
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Konstantinos I Tsamis
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.,Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology Research Group, University of Ioannina, Greece.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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Luo Z, Wan Q, Han Y, Li Z, Li B. CAPE-pNO 2 ameliorates diabetic brain injury through modulating Alzheimer's disease key proteins, oxidation, inflammation and autophagy via a Nrf2-dependent pathway. Life Sci 2021; 287:119929. [PMID: 34743947 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119929] [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: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS CAPE-pNO2, an active derivative of caffeic acid phenethyl ester, has been verified to exert protection of diabetic cardiomyopathy and diabetic nephropathy. The present study aims to explore the brain protection effects and potential mechanisms of CAPE-pNO2 on streptozotocin-induced diabetic brain injury in vivo and in vitro. MAIN METHODS Biochemical indexes including triglyceride, total cholesterol, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde contents were detected. The histopathological structure of hippocampus and cerebral cortex were determined. Immunofluorescence and immunoblot methods were used to assess expression of oxidative stress, inflammation and autophagy pathway-related proteins of diabetic brain in vivo. Alzheimer's disease (AD)-associated key proteins were also checked in vivo. DCFH-DA assay, immunofluorescence and immunoblot methods were applied to verify the master role of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) in vitro. KEY FINDINGS First, CAPE-pNO2 could rescue the diabetic brain atrophy and diminish CA1 and CA3 cells of hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Second, CAPE-pNO2 could decrease Aβ and p-tau (S396) expression through anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and autophagy induction in vivo. Last, CAPE-pNO2 could down-regulate p-tau (S396) expression through Nrf2-related anti-oxidation mechanisms in vitro. SIGNIFICANCE CAPE-pNO2 may exert brain protection via Nrf2-dependent way in diabetes. Additionally, Nrf2 was capable of regulating p-tau (S396) expression that is critical to AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouxia Luo
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, No. 2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Qin Wan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, No. 2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Yanmin Han
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, No. 2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Zhubo Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, No. 2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, China.
| | - Boheng Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, No. 2, Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing 400716, China.
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Lu X, Xuan W, Li J, Yao H, Huang C, Li J. AMPK protects against alcohol-induced liver injury through UQCRC2 to up-regulate mitophagy. Autophagy 2021; 17:3622-3643. [PMID: 33719895 PMCID: PMC8632272 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2021.1886829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent reports indicated that mitophagy protects against alcohol-induced liver injury, which helps remove damaged mitochondria to reduce the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has been recently used in ALD (alcoholic liver disease) and mitochondrial dysfunction research. However, the inner mechanism, whether AMPK can regulate mitophagy in ALD, remains unknown. Here we found that AMPK can significantly reduce alcohol-induced liver injury and enhances hepatocytes' mitophagy level. Next, we identified that AMPK rescued alcohol-induced low expression of UQCRC2 (ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase core protein 2). Interestingly, UQCRC2 knockdown (KD) treatment causes impaired mitophagy, whereas UQCRC2 overexpression (OE) can significantly increase mitophagy to attenuate liver injury. Also, we identified that AMPK indirectly upregulates UQCRC2 protein level, and RNA-seq, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, bioinformatics, and luciferase assays helped us understand that AMPK enhanced UQCRC2 gene transcription through activating NFE2L2/NRF2 (nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2). Our results demonstrate that AMPK regulating UQCRC2 is a significant mitochondrial event in mitophagy. It identifies a new signaling axis, AMPK-NFE2L2-UQCRC2, in the regulation of mitophagy levels in the liver, suggesting a possible therapeutic strategy to treat ALD.Abbreviations: AAV: AENO-associated virus; ALD: alcoholic liver disease; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; BUN: blood urea nitrogen; H&E: hematoxylin and eosin; CCCP: carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone; ChIP: chromatin immunoprecipitation assay; CO-IP: co-immunoprecipitation; COPD: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; EM: electron microscope; GOT1/AST: glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 1; GPT/ALT: glutamic-pyruvic transaminase; IF: immunofluorescence; IHC: immunohistochemistry; KD: knockdown; MAP1LC3/LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain protein 3; MTDR: MitoTracker Deep Red; NFE2L2/NRF2: nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2; mtDNA: mitochondrial DNA; MTRC: MitoTracker Red CMXRos; OCR: Oxygen consumption rate; OE: overexpress; PINK1: PTEN induced kinase 1; qRT-PCR: quantitative real-time PCR; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SD: standard deviation; SOD2: superoxide dismutase 2; UQCRC2: ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase core protein 2; WB: western blot; ΔΨ: mitochondrial membrane potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Lu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wenting Xuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical College of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Juanjuan Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hongwei Yao
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jun Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
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Zhang M, Yan W, Yu Y, Cheng J, Yi X, Guo T, Liu N, Shang J, Wang Z, Hu H, Chen L. Liraglutide ameliorates diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction via rescuing autophagic flux. J Pharmacol Sci 2021; 147:234-244. [PMID: 34507632 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction is increasing. However, few clinical interventions are available to prevent the disorder. Several researches have shown that liraglutide, as a glucagon-like peptide-1 analog, has protective effects on various neurodegenerative diseases, but its roles in diabetic cognitive dysfunction are rarely reported. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of liraglutide on diabetic cognitive dysfunction and its underlying mechanisms. In vivo, the effects of liraglutide treatment were investigated in a mouse model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In vitro, we investigated the effects of liraglutide on the high-glucose-induced rat primary neurons. The results showed that liraglutide reduced the escape latency and increased the time in effective area in the Morris water maze test, improved the damage of hippocampal and synaptic ultrastructure, and decreased the accumulation of amyloid β protein in hippocampus of T2DM mice. Furthermore, liraglutide increased the ratio of microtubule-associated protein light 1 chain Ⅱ/Ⅰ, the expression of Beclin1 protein and Lysosome-associated membrane protein 2 in vivo and vitro. Additionally, Bafilomycin A1 which can inhibit the fusion of autophagosome and lysosome partially abolished the effects of liraglutide. These findings indicate liraglutide ameliorates diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction by rescuing autophagic flux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Wenhui Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Ye Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xinyao Yi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Tingli Guo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jia Shang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Zhuanzhuan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Lina Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an 710061, China.
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49
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Liu XY, Zhang N, Zhang SX, Xu P. Potential new therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease: Glucagon-like peptide-1. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 54:7749-7769. [PMID: 34676939 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence shows a close relationship between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Recently, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a gut incretin hormone, has become a well-established treatment for T2DM and is likely to be involved in treating cognitive impairment. In this mini review, the similarities between AD and T2DM are summarised with the main focus on GLP-1-based therapeutics in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Ni Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Sheng-Xiao Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China.,Key laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Ministry of Education, Shanxi, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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50
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Neumann NR, Thompson DC, Vasiliou V. AMPK activators for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2021; 17:1199-1210. [PMID: 34632898 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2021.1991308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As the global population ages at an unprecedented rate, the burden of neurodegenerative diseases is expected to grow. Given the profound impact illness like dementia exert on individuals and society writ large, researchers, physicians, and scientific organizations have called for increased investigation into their treatment and prevention. Both metformin and aspirin have been associated with improved cognitive outcomes. These agents are related in their ability to stimulate AMP kinase (AMPK). Momordica charantia, another AMPK activator, is a component of traditional medicines and a novel agent for the treatment of cancer. It is also being evaluated as a nootropic agent. AREAS COVERED This article is a comprehensive review which examines the role of AMPK activation in neuroprotection and the role that AMPK activators may have in the management of dementia and cognitive impairment. It evaluates the interaction of metformin, aspirin, and Momordica charantia, with AMPK, and reviews the literature characterizing these agents' impact on neurodegeneration. EXPERT OPINION We suggest that AMPK activators should be considered for the treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. We identify multiple areas of future investigation which may have a profound impact on patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie R Neumann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - David C Thompson
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Vasilis Vasiliou
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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