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Li Y, Sun L, Zhou Q, Lee AJ, Wang L, Zhang R, Wang S. Effects of opioid drugs on immune function in cancer patients. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116665. [PMID: 38701564 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Opioid receptor agonists are often used when cancer patients undergo surgery or analgesic treatment. As analgesics in clinical care, opioids can provide intraoperative or to chronic cancer pain relief. Immune function plays an important role in anti-cancer therapy, with cellular immunity, comprised principally of T-lymphocytes and natural killer cells, representing the primary anti-cancer immune response. However, it remains unclear whether immune function is further affected with the use of opioids in already immunocompromised cancer patients. This article provides a review of the effects of commonly used clinical opioids, including morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl and tramadol, on immune function in cancer patients. It provides a summary of current evidence regarding the immunomodulatory effects of opioids in the cancer setting and mechanisms underlying these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqi Li
- School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Lina Sun
- School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
| | - Qinglian Zhou
- School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - An Jie Lee
- Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States
| | - Lingyan Wang
- School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- School of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
| | - Shoushi Wang
- Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao Cancer Hospital, Qingdao 266042, China.
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Hankins GR, Harris RT. The Opioid Growth Factor in Growth Regulation and Immune Responses in Cancer. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 35:45-85. [PMID: 38874718 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45493-6_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
It has become apparent that endogenous opioids act not only as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, but have multiple functions in the body. Activation of the opioid system by opiate drugs is associated with a risk of cancer development through direct stimulation of tumor cell proliferation and through immunosuppression. In contrast, the endogenous peptide opioid [Met5]-enkephalin, now commonly referred to as Opioid Growth Factor (OGF), negatively regulates cell proliferation in a wide number of cells during development, homeostasis, and neoplasia. This action is mediated through the opioid growth factor receptor, originally designated the zeta (ζ) opioid receptor. Further, contrary to the traditional notion of opiates as immunosuppressive, endogenous OGF has been shown to possess a number of positive immunomodulatory properties and may provide a beneficial effect in cancer by augmenting the activity of cells involved in both innate and acquired immunity. Taken together, the evidence supports consideration of opioid peptides such as OGF as new strategies for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald R Hankins
- Department of Biology, West Virginia State University, Institute, WV, USA.
| | - Robert T Harris
- Department of Biology, West Virginia State University, Institute, WV, USA
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3
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Qu N, Meng Y, Zhai J, Griffin N, Shan Y, Gao Y, Shan F. Methionine enkephalin inhibited cervical cancer migration as well as invasion and activated CD11b + NCR1 + NKs of tumor microenvironment. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 124:110967. [PMID: 37741126 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
This study was to study the role of methionine enkephalin (menk) in cell invasion and migration as well as NK cells activation of tumor microenvironment in cervical cancer. The results showed that menk inhibited cervical cancer migration and invasion. In addition, we found menk affected epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) related indicators, with increasing E-cadherin level, decreasing N-cadherin and vimentin level. Through in vivo mouse model, we found that menk IFNγ and NKP46 expression was upregulated in tumor tissues by menk compared with controls, while LAG3 expression was inhibited by menk, besides, there was an upregulation of CD11b+ NCR1+ NKs of tumor microenvironment in cervical cancer. Therefore, we concluded that menk inhibited cancer migration and invasion via affecting EMT related indicators and activated CD11b+ NCR1+ NKs of tumor microenvironment in cervical cancer, laying a theoretical foundation for the further clinical treatment of menk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qu
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy Ward, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital), No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yiming Meng
- Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital), No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jingbo Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Zoonose Prevention and Control at Universities of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Medical College, Inner Mongolia Minzu University, Tongliao 028000, China
| | - Noreen Griffin
- Biostax Inc. 1317 Edgewater Dr., Ste 4882, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Yuanye Shan
- Biostax Inc. 1317 Edgewater Dr., Ste 4882, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
| | - Yuhua Gao
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy Ward, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital), No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang 110122, Liaoning Province, China.
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Anderson G. Melatonin, BAG-1 and cortisol circadian interactions in tumor pathogenesis and patterned immune responses. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:962-993. [PMID: 37970210 PMCID: PMC10645470 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
A dysregulated circadian rhythm is significantly associated with cancer risk, as is aging. Both aging and circadian dysregulation show suppressed pineal melatonin, which is indicated in many studies to be linked to cancer risk and progression. Another independently investigated aspect of the circadian rhythm is the cortisol awakening response (CAR), which is linked to stress-associated hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activation. CAR and HPA axis activity are primarily mediated via activation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which drives patterned gene expression via binding to the promotors of glucocorticoid response element (GRE)-expressing genes. Recent data shows that the GR can be prevented from nuclear translocation by the B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)-associated athanogene 1 (BAG-1), which translocates the GR to mitochondria, where it can have diverse effects. Melatonin also suppresses GR nuclear translocation by maintaining the GR in a complex with heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90). Melatonin, directly and/or epigenetically, can upregulate BAG-1, suggesting that the dramatic 10-fold decrease in pineal melatonin from adolescence to the ninth decade of life will attenuate the capacity of night-time melatonin to modulate the effects of the early morning CAR. The interactions of pineal melatonin/BAG-1/Hsp90 with the CAR are proposed to underpin how aging and circadian dysregulation are associated with cancer risk. This may be mediated via differential effects of melatonin/BAG-1/Hsp90/GR in different cells of microenvironments across the body, from which tumors emerge. This provides a model of cancer pathogenesis that better integrates previously disparate bodies of data, including how immune cells are regulated by cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment, at least partly via the cancer cell regulation of the tryptophan-melatonin pathway. This has a number of future research and treatment implications.
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Sun Q, Li Z, Wang Z, Wang Q, Qin F, Pan H, Lin W, Mu X, Wang Y, Jiang Y, Ji J, Lu Z. Immunosuppression by opioids: Mechanisms of action on innate and adaptive immunity. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 209:115417. [PMID: 36682388 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Opioids are excellent analgesics for the clinical treatment of various types of acute and chronic pain, particularly cancer-related pain. Nevertheless, it is well known that opioids have some nasty side effects, including immunosuppression, which is commonly overlooked. As a result, the incidence of opportunistic bacterial and viral infections increases in patients with long-term opioid use. Nowadays, there are no effective medications to alleviate opioid-induced immunosuppression. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanism of opioids in immunosuppression can enable researchers to devise effective therapeutic interventions. This review comprehensively summarized the exogenous opioids-induced immunosuppressive effects and their underlying mechanisms, the regulatory roles of endogenous opioids on the immune system, the potential link between opioid immunosuppressive effect and the function of the central nervous system (CNS), and the future perspectives in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinmei Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhonghao Li
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zijing Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Qisheng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Fenfen Qin
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Haotian Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Weixin Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xinru Mu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yuxuan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yongwei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jianjian Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhigang Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Prevention and Treatment of Tumor, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Medicine Research of Ministry of Education, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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6
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Qu N, Wang R, Meng Y, Liu N, Zhai J, Shan F. Methionine enkephalin inhibited cervical carcinoma via apoptosis promotion and reduction of myeloid derived suppressor cell infiltrated in tumor. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:108933. [PMID: 35738090 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy for cervical carcinoma is becoming increasingly important recently. In these studies methionine enkephalin (menk) is shown to inhibit cervical tumor cell proliferation in vitro in association with an increase in the expression of apoptosis markers and mediators, including an increase in fas, caspase 8, and caspase 3 expression and intrinsic expression of the signaling pathway mediator bax. In vivo, tumor growth was restrained in mice xenotransplant model with typical pathological features of apoptosis. Furthermore, myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) had a significant decrease in circulation and in tumor site. In brief, these findings showed menk could inhibit tumor growth in vitro and in vivo, providing direction of further research and clinical application prospect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang 110122, Liaoning Province, China; Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Ruizhe Wang
- Department of Gynecology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, No. 155, North Nanjing Street, Shenyang 110001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yiming Meng
- Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jingbo Zhai
- Medical College, Inner Mongolia Minzu University, Tongliao 028000, China; Key Laboratory of Zoonose Prevention and Control at Universities of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Tongliao 028000, China
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang 110122, Liaoning Province, China.
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7
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Wang C, Liu H, Feng X. The Impact of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate and 2-Mercaptoethanol on Antibody and Antigen Binding. Lab Med 2021; 53:307-313. [PMID: 34878509 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmab081] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) on antigen-antibody binding when incubated at 100°C, which is the pretreatment temperature required for western blots. METHODS Serum that tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) plus loading buffer were mixed at a ratio of 4:1 and incubated in a water bath. We then detected HBsAg using double immunodiffusion and ELISA. RESULTS The HBsAg titer was 1:512 in the control group when incubated at 37°C. Incubation with SDS at 100°C reduced the antigen titer to 1:32. The inhibitory effect on HBsAg titer reached 96.9% after incubation at 100°C with SDS and 2-ME. CONCLUSION We detected strong inhibition of antigens in western blots via SDS and 2-ME. It is likely that false-negative results will be obtained from western blots of antigens with weak resistance to these reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Wang
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | | | - Xinyan Feng
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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Cui L, Cai H, Sun F, Wang Y, Qu Y, Dong J, Wang H, Li J, Qian C, Li J. Beta-endorphin inhibits the inflammatory response of bovine endometrial cells through δ opioid receptor in vitro. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 121:104074. [PMID: 33775662 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Postpartum uterine infections are common reproductive diseases in postpartum cows. Evidence has shown that plasma β-endorphins increase during bovine uterine inflammation. However, the effect of β-endorphins on the inflammatory response in bovine endometrium has not been clarified. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of β-endorphins on the inflammatory response of bovine endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, and to explore the possible mechanism. The cells were treated with E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to simulate inflammation, which was characterized by the significant activation of NF-κB signaling pathway and the increased gene expression of the downstream proinflammatory cytokines (approximately 1.2- to 15-fold increase, P < 0.05). By using Western blot and qPCR techniques, we found that β-endorphins inhibited the key protein expression of NF-κB pathway, and the gene expressions of TNF, IL1B, IL6, CXCL8, nitric oxide synthase 2, and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (P < 0.05). The co-treatment of β-endorphins and opioid antagonists showed that the anti-inflammatory effect of β-endorphins could be blocked (P < 0.05) by non-selective opioid antagonist naloxone or δ opioid receptor antagonist ICI 154129, but not the μ opioid receptor antagonist CTAP (P > 0.05). In conclusion, β-endorphins may inhibit the inflammatory response of bovine endometrial epithelial and stromal cells through δ opioid receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luying Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Hele Cai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Fazhuang Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Yali Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Yang Qu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Junsheng Dong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Heng Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Jun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Chen Qian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China
| | - Jianji Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agriproduct Safety of the Ministry of Education, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, 225009, China.
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9
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Zhang S, Liu N, Ma M, Huang H, Handley M, Bai X, Shan F. Methionine enkephalin (MENK) suppresses lung cancer by regulating the Bcl-2/Bax/caspase-3 signaling pathway and enhancing natural killer cell-driven tumor immunity. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 98:107837. [PMID: 34116288 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate how methionine enkephalin (MENK) regulates the biological behavior of lung cancer cells and to further explore its anti-lung cancer mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that MENK enhanced the expression of opioid receptor (OGFr) and induced apoptosis of lung cancer cells by activating the Bcl-1/Bax/caspase-3 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. However, the regulatory effects of MENK disappeared after blockade of the OGFr. This confirmed that a prerequisite for the anti-tumor action of MENK is binding to OGFr. Additionally, we observed that MENK treatment enhanced the immunogenicity of lung cancer by enhancing the exposure of calreticulin and high mobility group box 1, and increasing the expression of NKG2D ligands. Further studies showed that MENK treatment increased the expression of natural killer (NK) cell-related cytokines such as granzyme B and interferon-γ and NK cell activation. Thus, we concluded that MENK might inhibit the proliferation of lung cancer cells by activating the Bcl-2/Bax/caspase-3 signaling pathway and enhancing immunogenicity and NK cell-driven tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuling Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China; Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Mingxing Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Hai Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, the People's Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Mike Handley
- Cytocom lnc, 3001 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL 32792, USA
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Gynecology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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10
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Qu N, Meng Y, Handley MK, Wang C, Shan F. Preclinical and clinical studies into the bioactivity of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) for oncotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 96:107714. [PMID: 33989971 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Naltrexone (NTX) is a nonspecific opioid antagonist that exerts pharmacological effects on the opioid axis by blocking opioid receptors distributed in cytoplastic and nuclear regions. NTX has been used in opioid use disorder (OUD), immune-associated diseases, alcoholism, obesity, and chronic pain for decades. However, low-dose naltrexone (LDN) also exhibits remarkable inhibition of DNA synthesis, viability, and other functions in numerous cancers and is involved in immune remodeling against tumor invasion and chemical toxicity. The potential anticancer activity of LDN is a focus of basic research. Herein, we summarize the associated studies on LDN oncotherapy to highlight the potential mechanisms and prospective clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qu
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yiming Meng
- Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Mike K Handley
- Cytocom, Inc., 2537 Research Blvd. Suite 201, FortCollins, CO 80526, USA
| | - Chunyan Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang 110122, China.
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11
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Bai X, Cao X, Qu N, Huang H, Handley M, Zhang S, Shan F. Methionine enkephalin activates autophagy and stimulates tumour cell immunogenicity in human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 96:107733. [PMID: 33965882 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is a common skin tumour. Due to weak immunogenicity, recurrence is frequent after treatment. In this study, we explored the effects and mechanisms of methionine enkephalin (MENK), an endogenous opioid peptide and negative growth regulator, in CSCC. MENK inhibited A431 cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis through the opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr). Importantly, MENK also induced autophagy in CSCC and stimulated the emission of DAMPs in A431 cells, which resulted in enhanced activation of dendritic cells (DC).In conclusion, MENK provides an effective method with therapeutic potential to modulate the CSCC microenvironment by utilizing autophagy in the cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueli Bai
- Department of Gynecology, The fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 4 Chongshandong road, Huanggu district, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, PR China; Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xia Cao
- Department of Gynecology, The fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 4 Chongshandong road, Huanggu district, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, PR China
| | - Na Qu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Hai Huang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Mike Handley
- Cytocm lnc, 3001 Aloma Ave. Winter Park, FL 32792, USA
| | - Shuling Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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Assis MA, Carranza PG, Ambrosio E. A "Drug-Dependent" Immune System Can Compromise Protection against Infection: The Relationships between Psychostimulants and HIV. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050722. [PMID: 33919273 PMCID: PMC8143316 DOI: 10.3390/v13050722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychostimulant use is a major comorbidity in people living with HIV, which was initially explained by them adopting risky behaviors that facilitate HIV transmission. However, the effects of drug use on the immune system might also influence this phenomenon. Psychostimulants act on peripheral immune cells even before they reach the central nervous system (CNS) and their effects on immunity are likely to influence HIV infection. Beyond their canonical activities, classic neurotransmitters and neuromodulators are expressed by peripheral immune cells (e.g., dopamine and enkephalins), which display immunomodulatory properties and could be influenced by psychostimulants. Immune receptors, like Toll-like receptors (TLRs) on microglia, are modulated by cocaine and amphetamine exposure. Since peripheral immunocytes also express TLRs, they may be similarly affected by psychostimulants. In this review, we will summarize how psychostimulants are currently thought to influence peripheral immunity, mainly focusing on catecholamines, enkephalins and TLR4, and shed light on how these drugs might affect HIV infection. We will try to shift from the classic CNS perspective and adopt a more holistic view, addressing the potential impact of psychostimulants on the peripheral immune system and how their systemic effects could influence HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Amparo Assis
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Santiago del Estero (UNSE), Santiago del Estero G4200, Argentina;
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Inmunología y Microbiología, Instituto Multidisciplinario de Salud, Tecnología y Desarrollo (IMSaTeD), CONICET-UNSE, Santiago del Estero G4206, Argentina
- Departamento de Psicobiología, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Correspondence:
| | - Pedro Gabriel Carranza
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Santiago del Estero (UNSE), Santiago del Estero G4200, Argentina;
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Inmunología y Microbiología, Instituto Multidisciplinario de Salud, Tecnología y Desarrollo (IMSaTeD), CONICET-UNSE, Santiago del Estero G4206, Argentina
- Facultad de Agronomía y Agroindustrias, Universidad Nacional de Santiago del Estero, Santiago del Estero G4206, Argentina
| | - Emilio Ambrosio
- Departamento de Psicobiología, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040 Madrid, Spain;
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13
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Zhang P, Yang M, Chen C, Liu L, Wei X, Zeng S. Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4)/Opioid Receptor Pathway Crosstalk and Impact on Opioid Analgesia, Immune Function, and Gastrointestinal Motility. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1455. [PMID: 32733481 PMCID: PMC7360813 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) recognizes exogenous pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and endogenous danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and initiates the innate immune response. Opioid receptors (μ, δ, and κ) activate inhibitory G-proteins and relieve pain. This review summarizes the following types of TLR4/opioid receptor pathway crosstalk: (a) Opioid receptor agonists non-stereoselectively activate the TLR4 signaling pathway in the central nervous system (CNS), in the absence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Opioids bind to TLR4, in a manner parallel to LPS, activating TLR4 signaling, which leads to nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) expression and the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6. (b) Opioid receptor agonists inhibit the LPS-induced TLR4 signaling pathway in peripheral immune cells. Opioids operate as pro-inflammatory cytokines, resulting in neuroinflammation in the CNS, but they mediate immunosuppressive effects in the peripheral immune system. It is apparent that TLR4/opioid receptor pathway crosstalk varies dependent on the cell type and activating stimulus. (c) Both the TLR4 and opioid receptor pathways activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. This crosstalk is located downstream of the TLR4 and opioid receptor signaling pathways. Furthermore, the classic opioid receptor can also produce pro-inflammatory effects in the CNS via MAPK signaling and induce neuroinflammation. (d) Opioid receptor agonists induce the production of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), an endogenous TLR4 agonist, supporting intercellular (neuron-to-glia or glia-to-neuron) interactions. This review also summarizes the potential effects of TLR4/opioid receptor pathway crosstalk on opioid analgesia, immune function, and gastrointestinal motility. Opioids non-stereoselectively activate the TLR4 pathway, and together with the subsequent release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1 by glia, this TLR4 signaling initiates the central immune signaling response and modifies opioid pharmacodynamics. The DAMP HMGB1 is associated with the development of neuropathic pain. To explain morphine-induced persistent sensitization, a positive feedback loop has been proposed; this involves an initial morphine-induced amplified release of IL-1β and a subsequent exacerbated release of DAMPs, which increases the activation of TLR4 and the purinergic receptor P2X7R. Opioid receptor (μ, δ, and κ) agonists are involved in many aspects of immunosuppression. The intracellular TLR4/opioid receptor signaling pathway crosstalk induces the formation of the β-arrestin-2/TNF receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) complex, which contributes to morphine-induced inhibition of LPS-induced TNF-α secretion in mast cells. A possible molecular mechanism is that the TLR4 pathway initially triggers the formation of the β-arrestin-2/TRAF6 complex, which is amplified by opioid receptor signaling, suggesting that β-arrestin-2 acts as a functional component of the TLR4 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Meirong Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunhua Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinchuan Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Si Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
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14
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Abstract
This paper is the fortieth consecutive installment of the annual anthological review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, summarizing articles published during 2017 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides and receptors as well as effects of opioid/opiate agonists and antagonists. The review is subdivided into the following specific topics: molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors (1), the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia in animals (2) and humans (3), opioid-sensitive and opioid-insensitive effects of nonopioid analgesics (4), opioid peptide and receptor involvement in tolerance and dependence (5), stress and social status (6), learning and memory (7), eating and drinking (8), drug abuse and alcohol (9), sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (10), mental illness and mood (11), seizures and neurologic disorders (12), electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (13), general activity and locomotion (14), gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (15), cardiovascular responses (16), respiration and thermoregulation (17), and immunological responses (18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, CUNY, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY, 11367, United States.
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15
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Xu N, Wang Y, Zhao S, Jiao T, Xue H, Shan F, Zhang N. Naltrexone (NTX) relieves inflammation in the collagen-induced- arthritis (CIA) rat models through regulating TLR4/NFκB signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 79:106056. [PMID: 31865244 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.106056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our aim was to study the efficacy and mechanism by which NTX alleviate arthritis in CIA rat models in vivo. METHODS Female Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups, their weights were observed and the severity of arthritis and pathological changes were evaluated by HE staining. T lymphocyte subsets were detected by flow cytometry. The expression of cytokines was detected in peripheral serum by ELISA. Real time PCR, immunohistochemical staining and western blot analysis were utilized to detect the mRNA and protein expression of opioid receptors, TLR4, RANKL and /NF-κB in synovial tissue and the spleen. RESULTS The weight of the rats in the 10 mg/kg NTX group decreased the least, and had the least severe arthritis. CD4+ T cells, Th1 cells and Treg cells increased, and CD8+T cells, Th1 cells and Th17 cells decreased in the splenic lymphocytes. The expression of proinflammatory cytokines decreased, and the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines increased. MOR and DOR were strongly expressed in the spleen, whereas KOR and DOR were strongly expressed in synovial tissue. The expression of TLR4, NF-κB and RANKL was reduced in the spleen and synovium in the NTX group. CONCLUSIONS NTX relieved the severity of arthritis in the CIA rat models at a concentration of 10 mg/kg by regulating T lymphocyte subsets and the expression of cytokines. NTX affected opioid receptors to inhibit the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, regulating the systemic immune response and decreasing osteoclast differentiation, thereby alleviating inflammation and the erosion of articular cartilage along with bone tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neili Xu
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China
| | - Yuejiao Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China
| | - Ting Jiao
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China
| | - Hongxia Xue
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, China.
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16
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Tian J, Qu N, Jiao X, Wang X, Geng J, Griffin N, Shan F. Methionine enkephalin inhibits influenza A virus infection through upregulating antiviral state in RAW264.7 cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 78:106032. [PMID: 31835089 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.106032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
MENK, as an immune adjuvant, has potential immune-regulatory activity on innate and adaptive immune cells. The aim of this work was to investigate the antiviral effect of MENK on influenza virus-infected murine macrophage cells (RAW264.7) and its underlying mechanisms. The results showed that MENK markedly inhibited influenza A virus (H1N1) replication in pre- and post-MENK treatment, especially in pre-MENK treatment. The mechanisms exploration revealed that MENK (10 mg/mL) significantly inhibited the nucleoprotein (NP) of influenza virus and up-regulated levels of IL-6, TNF-α and IFN-β compared with those in H1N1 control group. Further experiments confirmed that antiviral effects of MENK was associated with promotion of opioid receptor (MOR) as well as activation of NF-κB p65 inducing cellular antiviral status. The data suggest that MENK should be potential candidate for prophylactic or therapeutic treatment against H1N1 influenza virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Tian
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121001, China; Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Na Qu
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110042, China
| | - Xue Jiao
- Department of Translational Medicine, No.4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China
| | - Xiaonan Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Jin Geng
- Department of Ophthalmology, No.1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Noreen Griffin
- Immune Therapeutics, Inc., 37 North Orange Avenue, Suite 607, Orlando, FL 32801, USA
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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17
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Qu N, Wang X, Meng Y, Shan F. Prospective oncotarget for gynecological cancer: Opioid growth factor (OGF) - opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr) axis. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 75:105723. [PMID: 31408839 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.105723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The standard treatments for neoplasia include surgery, chemotherapy, hormone antagonists and radiotherapy, which can prolong survival, but rarely cure the tumors of gynecological cancer patients. OGF - OGFr expression, in various gynecologic cells and tissues, is an intersection point between cell development, neuroendocrine function and immune modulation. It has been identified that OGF and OGFr expression differs between gynecological tumor and normal cells. Further, exogenous or endogenous OGF and OGFr antagonists have been known to have a role in regulating cell viability and apoptosis. Moreover, the expression of proteins in the OGF - OGFr axis modulate differentiation and membrane expression of immune cells, which can enhance the immune response. In vivo and in vitro assays have shown that OGF and OGFr antagonists inhibit mitosis as well as induce apoptosis in gynecologic cancer cells. Although immune augmentation combination therapies can intensify cytotoxic activity, OGF or OGFr antagonists do not increase toxicities associated with dual-immune regulation. In conclusion, the OGF - OGFr axis provides significant strategies for antitumor efficiency in gynecological cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qu
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yiming Meng
- Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang 110122, China.
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18
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Zhang K, Yang J, Ao N, Jin S, Qi R, Shan F, Du J. Methionine enkephalin (MENK) regulates the immune pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus via the IL-33/ST2 pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 73:23-40. [PMID: 31078923 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.04.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The incidence and mortality of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rank among the top ten worldwide. Emerging studies indicate pathological roles for the immune system in inflammation, insulin resistance and islet β-cell damage in subjects with T2DM. Methionine enkephalin (MENK) is present in endocrine cells of the pancreas and has been suggested to be an important mediator between the immune and neuroendocrine systems. Therefore, it may play a role in modulating insulin secretion from islet cells. Since little is known about the effect of MENK on T2DM, therefore it was the aim of this study to characterize the role and possible mechanism of action of MENK on plasma glucose and serum insulin levels in T2DM rats and INS-1 cells in vivo and in vitro. MENK significantly decreased the plasma glucose level and increased the serum insulin concentration in T2DM rats. It also increased the serum levels of the cytokines IL-5 and IL-10, while decreased TNF-α and IL-2 levels. We further confirmed that MENK regulated glucose metabolism by upregulating opioid receptor expression and modulating the IL-33/ST2 and MyD88-TRAF6-NF-κB p65 signaling pathways. Based on these results, an intraperitoneal injection of MENK represents a potentially new approach for T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keying Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, No. 4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, No. 4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China
| | - Na Ao
- Department of Endocrinology, No. 4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China
| | - Shi Jin
- Department of Endocrinology, No. 4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China
| | - Ruiqun Qi
- Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Jian Du
- Department of Endocrinology, No. 4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China.
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19
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Geng J, Yuan Y, Jiao X, Wang R, Liu N, Chen H, Griffin N, Shan F. Novel modulation on myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) by methionine encephalin (MENK). Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 68:193-203. [PMID: 30654309 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the modulatory effect of MENK on MDSCs and to investigate the relationship between this modulation and the expression of opioid receptors. Our results showed that MENK could inhibit the proliferation of MDSCs from both marine bone marrow and spleen. MENK also could promote the expression of opioid receptors MOR and DOR. MENK suppressed the PMN-MDSCs generated from splenocyte while up-regulated M-MDSCs. The stimulation of MENK increased the production of IL-4 secreted by MDSCs from slpenocytes. Our currently data indicated that MENK could suppress the accumulation of MDSCs in tumor-bearing mice via binding to and up-regulating expressions of subunits of opioid receptors. Therefore, it is concluded that MENK, through triggering opioid receptors could exert inhibiting modulation on MDSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Geng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; Department of Ophthalmology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Ye Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xue Jiao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Ruizhe Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; Department of Gynecology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; Department of Gynecology Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Noreen Griffin
- Immune Therapeutics, Inc., 37 North Orange Avenue, Suite 607, Orlando, FL 32801, USA
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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20
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Wang X, Jiao X, Meng Y, Chen H, Griffin N, Gao X, Shan F. Methionine enkephalin (MENK) inhibits human gastric cancer through regulating tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway inside cancer cells. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 65:312-322. [PMID: 30343258 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This study was to explore the effect and mechanisms of anti- human gastric cancer by MENK in vitro and in vivo. The results showed in MENK-treated xenograft tissue, the percentage of M2-type macrophages decreased while M1-type macrophages increased. MENK increased the expression of M1-related cytokine TNF-α and attenuated the expression of M2-related cytokine IL-10 expression. MENK upregulated the expression of opioid receptor (OGFr), while it inhibited HGC27 and SGC7901 cells through blocking PI3K/AKT/mTOR signal pathway in vitro and in vivo. These effects of MENK could be cancelled when OGFr was knockdown. This indicates that binding to OGFr by MENK appears to be essential for the anti- GC cells. Therefore, it is concluded that MENK might skew macrophage toward M2 phenotype from M1 phenotype within tumor and induce cells apoptosis though blocking OGFr/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Xue Jiao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Yiming Meng
- Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110042, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Noreen Griffin
- Immune Therapeutics, Inc., 37 North Orange Avenue, Suite 607, Orlando, FL 32801, USA
| | - Xinghua Gao
- Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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21
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Wang X, Tian J, Jiao X, Geng J, Wang R, Liu N, Gao X, Griffin N, Gao Y, Shan F. The novel mechanism of anticancer effect on gastric cancer through inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and caspase-dependent apoptosis in vitro and in vivo by methionine enkephalin. Cancer Manag Res 2018; 10:4773-4787. [PMID: 30425572 PMCID: PMC6201847 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s178343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gastric cancer (GC) is the second cause of cancer-related deaths. Methionine enkephalin (MENK), an endogenous opioid peptide, has immunological and antitumor activity. Purpose The aim of this work was to investigate whether MENK could exhibit activity against human GC in vitro and in vivo. Materials and methods Human GC cells were treated with MENK. Cell viability, colony formation, cell morphology, cell cycle, and apoptosis were assessed. The effects of MENK on gene expression of OGFr, Bax, BCL-2, caspase-3, PARP, Ki67, cyclin D1, c-myc, survivin were quantifed by qRT-PCR. Western blot was used to analyze the effects of MENK on protein expression of OGFr, Bax, BCL-2, caspase-3, PARP. The anti-tumor activity of MENK in gastic carcinoma was also investigated with animal experiments. Results The results indicate that MENK could significantly inhibit the growth of human GC cells SGC7901 and HGC27 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, decrease the number of cell colonies, and arrest cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase by causing a decrease in Ki67, cyclin D1, and c-myc mRNA. Furthermore, MENK could induce tumor cell apoptosis associated with the upregulation of Bax, a corresponding downregulation of BCL-2 and survivin, and activation of caspase-3 and PARP. Moreover, MENK upregulated the expression of opioid receptors (OGFr) in SGC7901 and HGC27 cells. The interaction between MENK and OGFr in SGC7901 and HGC27 cells appears to be essential for the antitumor activity of MENK. Conclusion We conclude that MENK may be a potential drug for the treatment of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaonan Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, China,
| | - Jing Tian
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, China,
| | - Xue Jiao
- Department of Translational Medicine, No. 4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jin Geng
- Department of Ophthalmology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Reizhe Wang
- Department of Gynecology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Shengjing Hospital
| | - Xinghua Gao
- Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | | | - Yuan Gao
- Faculty of Information and Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, China,
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22
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Jiao X, Wang X, Wang R, Geng J, Liu N, Chen H, Griffin N, Shan F. Rules to activate CD8 +T cells through regulating subunits of opioid receptors by methionine enkephalin (MENK). Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 65:76-83. [PMID: 30290369 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this work was to investigate how MENK could regulate the functions of CD8+T cells and to explore the relationship between this regulation and opioid receptor expression. Our results showed that the opioid receptors presented on the cell menbrane of CD8+T cells were MOR and DOR. MENK promoted the expression of opioid receptors as well as the elevation of the surface molecules such as CD28, PD-1, CTLA-4 and FasL and intracellular granzyme B. Selectively blocking the MOR by CTAP or DOR by NTI could result in inhibition of the corresponding CD8+T cells proliferation and the expressions of surface molecules. In addition, non-selectively blocking both MOR and DOR by NTX could further impair the functions and proliferation of CD8+T cells. Our currently data indicated that MENK could play a vital role in immune functions via precise regulation to subunits of opioid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Jiao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; Center for Translational Medicine, No. 4 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110032, China
| | - Xiaonan Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Ruizhe Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; Department of Gynecology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Jin Geng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; Department of Ophthalmology, No. 1 Teaching Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; Department of Gynecology Oncology, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China
| | - Noreen Griffin
- Immune Therapeutics, Inc., 37 North Orange Avenue, Suite 607, Orlando, FL 32801, USA
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China.
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