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Krause BJ, Paz AA, Garrud TAC, Peñaloza E, Vega-Tapia F, Ford SG, Niu Y, Giussani DA. Epigenetic regulation by hypoxia, N-acetylcysteine and hydrogen sulphide of the fetal vasculature in growth restricted offspring: A study in humans and chicken embryos. J Physiol 2024; 602:3833-3852. [PMID: 38985827 DOI: 10.1113/jp286266] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a common outcome in human suboptimal gestation and is related to prenatal origins of cardiovascular dysfunction in offspring. Despite this, therapy of human translational potential has not been identified. Using human umbilical and placental vessels and the chicken embryo model, we combined cellular, molecular, and functional studies to determine whether N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) protect cardiovascular function in growth-restricted unborn offspring. In human umbilical and placental arteries from control or FGR pregnancy and in vessels from near-term chicken embryos incubated under normoxic or hypoxic conditions, we determined the expression of the H2S gene CTH (i.e. cystathionine γ-lyase) (via quantitative PCR), the production of H2S (enzymatic activity), the DNA methylation profile (pyrosequencing) and vasodilator reactivity (wire myography) in the presence and absence of NAC treatment. The data show that FGR and hypoxia increased CTH expression in the embryonic/fetal vasculature in both species. NAC treatment increased aortic CTH expression and H2S production and enhanced third-order femoral artery dilator responses to the H2S donor sodium hydrosulphide in chicken embryos. NAC treatment also restored impaired endothelial relaxation in human third-to-fourth order chorionic arteries from FGR pregnancies and in third-order femoral arteries from hypoxic chicken embryos. This NAC-induced protection against endothelial dysfunction in hypoxic chicken embryos was mediated via nitric oxide independent mechanisms. Both developmental hypoxia and NAC promoted vascular changes in CTH DNA and NOS3 methylation patterns in chicken embryos. Combined, therefore, the data support that the effects of NAC and H2S offer a powerful mechanism of human translational potential against fetal cardiovascular dysfunction in complicated pregnancy. KEY POINTS: Gestation complicated by chronic fetal hypoxia and fetal growth restriction (FGR) increases a prenatal origin of cardiovascular disease in offspring, increasing interest in antenatal therapy to prevent against a fetal origin of cardiovascular dysfunction. We investigated the effects between N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) in the vasculature in FGR human pregnancy and in chronically hypoxic chicken embryos. Combining cellular, molecular, epigenetic and functional studies, we show that the vascular expression and synthesis of H2S is enhanced in hypoxic and FGR unborn offspring in both species and this acts to protect their vasculature. Therefore, the NAC/H2S pathway offers a powerful therapeutic mechanism of human translational potential against fetal cardiovascular dysfunction in complicated pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo J Krause
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Adolfo A Paz
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Tessa A C Garrud
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Estefanía Peñaloza
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fabian Vega-Tapia
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sage G Ford
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Youguo Niu
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- BHF Cardiovascular Centre for Research Excellence, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Strategic Research Initiative in Reproduction, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Panneflek TJR, Kuypers KLAM, Polglase GR, Derleth DP, Dekker J, Hooper SB, van den Akker T, Pas ABT. The influence of chorioamnionitis on respiratory drive and spontaneous breathing of premature infants at birth: a narrative review. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:2539-2547. [PMID: 38558311 PMCID: PMC11098929 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05508-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Most very premature infants breathe at birth but require respiratory support in order to stimulate and support their breathing. A significant proportion of premature infants are affected by chorioamnionitis, defined as an umbrella term for antenatal inflammation of the foetal membranes and umbilical vessels. Chorioamnionitis produces inflammatory mediators that potentially depress the respiratory drive generated in the brainstem. Such respiratory depression could maintain itself by delaying lung aeration, hampering respiratory support at birth and putting infants at risk of hypoxic injury. This inflammatory-mediated respiratory depression may contribute to an association between chorioamnionitis and increased requirement of neonatal resuscitation in premature infants at birth. This narrative review summarises mechanisms on how respiratory drive and spontaneous breathing could be influenced by chorioamnionitis and provides possible interventions to stimulate spontaneous breathing. Conclusion: Chorioamnionitis could possibly depress respiratory drive and spontaneous breathing in premature infants at birth. Interventions to stimulate spontaneous breathing could therefore be valuable. What is Known: • A large proportion of premature infants are affected by chorioamnionitis, antenatal inflammation of the foetal membranes and umbilical vessels. What is New: • Premature infants affected by chorioamnionitis might be exposed to higher concentrations of respiratory drive inhibitors which could depress breathing at birth. • Premature infants affected by chorioamnionitis seem to be associated with a higher and more extensive requirement of resuscitation at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J R Panneflek
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, Netherlands.
| | - Kristel L A M Kuypers
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Graeme R Polglase
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Douglas P Derleth
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Janneke Dekker
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Stuart B Hooper
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Thomas van den Akker
- Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan B Te Pas
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Centre, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, Netherlands
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3
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Jenkins DD, Garner SS, Brennan A, Morris J, Bonham K, Adams L, Hunt S, Moss H, Badran BW, George MS, Wiest DB. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation may benefit from the addition of N-acetylcysteine to facilitate motor learning in infants of diabetic mothers failing oral feeds. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1373543. [PMID: 38841121 PMCID: PMC11151742 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1373543] [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: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to determine if pretreating with enteral N-acetylcysteine (NAC) improves CNS oxidative stress and facilitates improvement in oromotor skills during transcutaneous auricular nerve stimulation (taVNS) paired with oral feedings in infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs) who are failing oral feeds. Methods We treated 10 IDMs who were gastrostomy tube candidates in an open-label trial of NAC and taVNS paired with oral feeding. NAC (75 or 100 mg/kg/dose) was given by nasogastric (NG) administration every 6 h for 4 days, then combined with taVNS paired with 2 daily feeds for another 14 days. NAC pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were determined from plasma concentrations at baseline and at steady state on day 4 of treatment in conjunction with magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) quantification of CNS glutathione (GSH) as a marker of oxidative stress. We compared increases in oral feeding volumes before and during taVNS treatment and with a prior cohort of 12 IDMs who largely failed to achieve full oral feeds with taVNS alone. Results NAC 100 mg/kg/dose every 6 h NG resulted in plasma [NAC] that increased [GSH] in the basal ganglia with a mean of 0.13 ± 0.08 mM (p = 0.01, compared to baseline). Mean daily feeding volumes increased over 14 days of NAC + taVNS compared to the 14 days before treatment and compared to the prior cohort of 12 IDMs treated with taVNS alone. Seven IDMs reached full oral feeds sufficient for discharge, while three continued to have inadequate intake. Conclusion In IDM failing oral feeds, NAC 100 mg/kg/dose every 6 h NG for 4 days before and during taVNS paired with oral feeding increased CNS GSH, potentially mitigating oxidative stress, and was associated with improving functional feeding outcomes compared to taVNS alone in a prior cohort. This represents a novel approach to neuromodulation and supports the concept that mitigation of ongoing oxidative stress may increase response to taVNS paired with a motor task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea D. Jenkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Sandra S. Garner
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Outcomes Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Alyssa Brennan
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Jessica Morris
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Kate Bonham
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Lauren Adams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Sally Hunt
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Hunter Moss
- Department of Neuroscience and the Center for Biomedical Imaging, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Bashar W. Badran
- Neuro-X Lab, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Mark S. George
- Brain Stimulation Division, Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Donald B. Wiest
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Outcomes Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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Sahasrabudhe SA, Terluk MR, Kartha RV. N-acetylcysteine Pharmacology and Applications in Rare Diseases-Repurposing an Old Antioxidant. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1316. [PMID: 37507857 PMCID: PMC10376274 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12071316] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a precursor of cysteine and, thereby, glutathione (GSH), acts as an antioxidant through a variety of mechanisms, including oxidant scavenging, GSH replenishment, antioxidant signaling, etc. Owing to the variety of proposed targets, NAC has a long history of use as a prescription product and in wide-ranging applications that are off-label as an over-the-counter (OTC) product. Despite its discovery in the early 1960s and its development for various indications, systematic clinical pharmacology explorations of NAC pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamic targets, drug interactions, and dose-ranging are sorely limited. Although there are anecdotal instances of NAC benefits in a variety of diseases, a comprehensive review of the use of NAC in rare diseases does not exist. In this review, we attempt to summarize the existing literature focused on NAC explorations in rare diseases targeting mitochondrial dysfunction along with the history of NAC usage, approved indications, mechanisms of action, safety, and PK characterization. Further, we introduce the research currently underway on other structural derivatives of NAC and acknowledge the continuum of efforts through pre-clinical and clinical research to facilitate further therapeutic development of NAC or its derivatives for rare diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhee A Sahasrabudhe
- Center for Orphan Drug Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Rm 4-214, McGuire Translational Research Facility, 2001 6th St. SE, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Marcia R Terluk
- Center for Orphan Drug Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Rm 4-214, McGuire Translational Research Facility, 2001 6th St. SE, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Reena V Kartha
- Center for Orphan Drug Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Rm 4-214, McGuire Translational Research Facility, 2001 6th St. SE, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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5
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Mazumdar R, Eberhart JK. Loss of Nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase sensitizes embryos to ethanol-induced neural crest and neural apoptosis via generation of reactive oxygen species. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1154621. [PMID: 37360166 PMCID: PMC10289183 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1154621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a continuum of birth defects caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. FASD are the most common environmentally induced birth defect and are highly variable. The genetics of an individual influence the severity of their FASD phenotype. However, the genes that sensitize an individual to ethanol-induced birth defects are largely unknown. The ethanol-sensitive mouse substrain, C57/B6J, carries several known mutations including one in Nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (Nnt). Nnt is a mitochondrial transhydrogenase thought to have an important role in detoxifying reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ROS has been implicated in ethanol teratogenesis. To directly test the role of Nnt in ethanol teratogenesis, we generated zebrafish nnt mutants via CRISPR/Cas9. Zebrafish embryos were dosed with varying concentrations of ethanol across different timepoints and assessed for craniofacial malformations. We utilized a ROS assay to determine if this could be a contributing factor of these malformations. We found that exposed and unexposed mutants had higher levels of ROS compared to their wildtype counterparts. When treated with ethanol, nnt mutants experienced elevated apoptosis in the brain and neural crest, a defect that was rescued by administration of the antioxidant, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). NAC treatment also rescued most craniofacial malformations. Altogether this research demonstrates that ethanol-induced oxidative stress leads to craniofacial and neural defects due to apoptosis in nnt mutants. This research further supports the growing body of evidence implicating oxidative stress in ethanol teratogenesis. These findings suggest that antioxidants can be used as a potential therapeutic in the treatment of FASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayna Mazumdar
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Natural Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Johann K. Eberhart
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Natural Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
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6
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Beloosesky R, Gutzeit O, Ginsberg Y, Khatib N, Ross MG, Weiner Z, Zmora O. Intestine and brain TLR-4 modulation following N-acetyl-cysteine treatment in NEC rodent model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8241. [PMID: 37217588 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35019-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) brain injury is mediated through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on the intestinal epithelium and brain microglia. Our aim was to determine whether postnatal and/or prenatal NAC can modify NEC associated intestinal and brain TLR4 expression and brain glutathione levels in a rat model of NEC. Newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into three groups: Control (n = 33); NEC (n = 32)-hypoxia and formula feeding; and NEC-NAC (n = 34)-received NAC (300 mg/kg IP) in addition to NEC conditions. Two additional groups included pups of dams treated once daily with NAC (300 mg/kg IV) for the last 3 days of pregnancy: NAC-NEC (n = 33) or NAC-NEC-NAC (n = 36) with additional postnatal NAC. Pups were sacrificed on the fifth day, and ileum and brains harvested for TLR-4 and glutathione protein levels. Brain and ileum TLR-4 protein levels were significantly increased in NEC offspring as compared to control (brain 2.5 ± 0.6 vs. 0.88 ± 0.12 U and ileum 0.24 ± 0.04 vs. 0.09 ± 0.01, p < 0.05). When NAC was administered only to dams (NAC-NEC) a significant decrease in TLR-4 levels was demonstrated in both offspring brain (1.53 ± 0.41 vs. 2.5 ± 0.6 U, p < 0.05) and ileum (0.12 ± 0.03 vs. 0.24 ± 0.04 U, p < 0.05) as compared to NEC. The same pattern was demonstrated when NAC was administered only or postnatally. The decrease in brain and ileum glutathione levels observed in NEC offspring was reversed with all NAC treatment groups. NAC reverses the increase in ileum and brain TLR-4 levels and the decrease in brain and ileum glutathione levels associated with NEC in a rat model, and thus may protect from NEC associated brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Beloosesky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel.
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Israel Institute of Technology - Technion, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Ola Gutzeit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yuval Ginsberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Nizar Khatib
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Michael G Ross
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Zeev Weiner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Osnat Zmora
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shamir Medical Center, Be'er Ya'acov, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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7
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Farag MA, Abib B, Qin Z, Ze X, Ali SE. Dietary macrominerals: Updated review of their role and orchestration in human nutrition throughout the life cycle with sex differences. Curr Res Food Sci 2023; 6:100450. [PMID: 36816001 PMCID: PMC9932710 DOI: 10.1016/j.crfs.2023.100450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrominerals play vital roles in a multitude of physiologic systems. A myriad of biochemical reactions are dependent on or affected by these electrolytes. The current review attempts to identify the role of macrominerals as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium and sulfur in human health, in addition to their absorption and homeostasis inside the body. We also focused on their amount in major food sources and the recommended daily intake of each macromineral. In addition, a deep insight into the orchestration of the 6 different macrominerals' requirements is presented across the human life cycle, beginning from fertility and pregnancy, and reaching adulthood and senility, with insight on interactions among them and underlying action mechanisms. The effect of sex is also presented for each mineral at each life stage to highlight the different daily requirements and/ or effects. The current review identified the role of macrominerals in human health, in addition to their absorption and homeostasis in the body. Based on the in-depth understanding of the factors influencing the metabolism of macrominerals, we could better explore their safety and possible therapeutic potential in specific disorders. There is still a need to precisely demonstrate the bioavailability of macrominerals from various types of functional food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A. Farag
- Pharmacognosy Department, College of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt, Kasr El Aini St, P.B, 11562, Egypt,Corresponding author.
| | - Bishoy Abib
- Chemistry Department, School of Sciences & Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo, 11835, Egypt
| | - Zhiwei Qin
- Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519087, China,Macau University of Science and Technology Zhuhai MUST Science and Technology Research Institute, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China,Corresponding author. Center for Biological Science and Technology, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University at Zhuhai, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519087, China.
| | - Xiaolei Ze
- BYHEALTH Institute of Nutrition & Health, No.3 Kehui 3rd Street, No.99 Kexue Avenue Central, Huangpu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510663, China
| | - Sara E. Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, The German University in Cairo, Egypt
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8
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Zhang R, Su L, Fu M, Wang Z, Tan L, Chen H, Lin Z, Tong Y, Ma S, Ye R, Zhao Z, Wang Z, Chen W, Yu J, Zhong W, Zeng J, Liu F, Chai C, Guan X, Liu T, Liang J, Zhu Y, Gu X, Zhang Y, Lui VCH, Tam PKH, Lamb JR, Wen Z, Chen Y, Xia H. CD177 + cells produce neutrophil extracellular traps that promote biliary atresia. J Hepatol 2022; 77:1299-1310. [PMID: 35803543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We have previously reported on the potential pathogenic role of neutrophils in biliary atresia (BA). Herein, we aimed to delineate the role of CD177+ neutrophils in the pathogenesis of BA. METHODS Immune cells from the livers of mice with rhesus rotavirus-induced BA were analysed. Single-cell RNA-sequencing was performed to specifically analyse Gr-1+ (Ly6C/Ly6G+) cells in the liver. Gene expression profiles of CD177+ cells were analysed using the Smart-Seq RNA-sequencing method, and the pathogenesis of BA was examined in Cd177-/- mice. Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) inhibitors were used to determine the role of CD177+ cell-derived NETs in BA-associated bile duct damage, and a pilot clinical study evaluated the potential effects of N-acetylcysteine on NET release in BA. RESULTS Increased levels of Gr-1+ cells were observed in the livers of mice with rhesus rotavirus-induced BA. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that CD177+ cells were the main population of Gr-1+ cells and expressed elevated levels of both interferon-stimulated and neutrophil degranulation genes. Cd177-/- BALB/c mice exhibited delayed disease onset and reduced morbidity and mortality. High numbers of mitochondria were detected in CD177+ cells derived from mice with BA; these cells were associated with increased levels of reactive oxygen species and increased NET formation, which induced the apoptosis of biliary epithelial cells in cocultures. In a pilot clinical study, the administration of N-acetylcysteine to patients with BA reduced CD177+ cell numbers and reactive oxygen species levels, indicating a potential beneficial effect. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that CD177+ cells play an important role in the initiation of BA pathogenesis via NET formation. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION The pilot study of N-acetylcysteine treatment in patients with BA was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000040505). LAY SUMMARY Neutrophils (a type of innate immune cell, i.e. an immune cell that doesn't target a specific antigen) are thought to play a role in the development of biliary atresia (a rare but potentially lethal condition of the bile ducts that occurs in infants). Herein, we found that neutrophils expressing a particular protein (CD177) played an important role in bile duct damage by releasing a special structure (NET) that can trap and kill pathogens but that can also cause severe tissue damage. A pilot study in patients with biliary atresia showed that inhibiting NETs could have a beneficial effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruizhong Zhang
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Su
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Ming Fu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Ledong Tan
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongjiao Chen
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Zefeng Lin
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanlu Tong
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Sige Ma
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Rongchen Ye
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Ziyang Zhao
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Ziqing Wang
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Weiyi Chen
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiakang Yu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Zhong
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Jixiao Zeng
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Chenwei Chai
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Xisi Guan
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiankun Liang
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Yun Zhu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoqiong Gu
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China
| | - Vincent C H Lui
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Paul K H Tam
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, China
| | - Jonathan R Lamb
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ UK
| | - Zhe Wen
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yan Chen
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China; Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, China.
| | - Huimin Xia
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Research in Structure Birth Defect Disease and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510623, Guangdong, China.
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9
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Effects of NAC and Gallic Acid on the Proliferation Inhibition and Induced Death of Lung Cancer Cells with Different Antioxidant Capacities. Molecules 2021; 27:molecules27010075. [PMID: 35011309 PMCID: PMC8746925 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a recognized antioxidant in culture studies and treatments for oxidative stress-related diseases, but in some cases, NAC is a pro-oxidant. To study the effect of NAC on cell proliferation in the presence or absence of ROS stress, we used the stable ROS generator gallic acid (GA) to treat CL1-0 lung cancer cell models with different antioxidant activities. Different antioxidant activities were achieved through the ectopic expression of different PERP-428 single nucleotide polymorphisms. GA increased ROS levels in CL1-0/PERP-428C cells and caused cell death but had no effect on CL1-0/PERP-428G cells within 24 h. We found that 0.1 mM NAC eliminated GA-induced growth inhibition, but 0.5 mM NAC enhanced GA-induced CL1-0/PERP-428C cell death. However, in the absence of GA, NAC exceeding 2 mM inhibited the growth of CL1-0/PERP-428G cells more significantly than that of CL1-0/PERP-428C cells. Without GA, NAC has an antioxidant effect. Under GA-induced ROS stress, NAC may have pro-oxidant effects. Each cell type has a unique range of ROS levels for survival. The levels of ROS in the cell determines the sensitivity of the cell to an antioxidant or pro-oxidant. Cells with different antioxidant capacities were used to show that the intracellular ROS level affects NAC function and provides valuable information for the adjuvant clinical application of NAC.
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10
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Jenkins DD, Moss HG, Brown TR, Yazdani M, Thayyil S, Montaldo P, Vento M, Kuligowski J, Wagner C, Hollis BW, Wiest DB. NAC and Vitamin D Improve CNS and Plasma Oxidative Stress in Neonatal HIE and Are Associated with Favorable Long-Term Outcomes. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1344. [PMID: 34572976 PMCID: PMC8466838 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and vitamin D provide effective neuroprotection in animal models of severe or inflammation-sensitized hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). To translate these FDA-approved drugs to HIE neonates, we conducted an early phase, open-label trial of 10 days of NAC (25, 40 mg/kg q12h) + 1,25(OH)2D (calcitriol 0.05 mg/kg q12h, 0.03 mg/kg q24h), (NVD), for pharmacokinetic (PK) estimates during therapeutic hypothermia and normothermia. We paired PK samples with pharmacodynamic (PD) targets of plasma isoprostanoids, CNS glutathione (GSH) and total creatine (tCr) by serial MRS in basal ganglia (BG) before and after NVD infusion at five days. Infants had moderate (n = 14) or severe HIE (n = 16), funisitis (32%), and vitamin D deficiency (75%). NVD resulted in rapid, dose-responsive increases in CNS GSH and tCr that correlated positively with plasma [NAC], inversely with plasma isofurans, and was greater in infants with lower baseline [GSH] and [tCr], suggesting increases in these PD markers were titrated by neural demand. Hypothermia and normothermia altered NAC PK estimates. NVD was well tolerated. Excluding genetic syndromes (2), prolonged ECMO (2), lost-to-follow-up (1) and SIDS death (1), 24 NVD treated HIE infants have no evidence of cerebral palsy, autism or cognitive delay at 24-48 months. These data confirm that low, safe doses of NVD in HIE neonates decreased oxidative stress in plasma and CNS, improved CNS energetics, and are associated with favorable developmental outcomes at two to four years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea D Jenkins
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, 10 McClennan Banks Drive, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (C.W.); (B.W.H.)
| | - Hunter G Moss
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (H.G.M.); (T.R.B.); (M.Y.)
| | - Truman R Brown
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (H.G.M.); (T.R.B.); (M.Y.)
| | - Milad Yazdani
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (H.G.M.); (T.R.B.); (M.Y.)
| | - Sudhin Thayyil
- Centre for Perinatal Neuroscience, Imperial College London, London W12 0HS, UK; (S.T.); (P.M.)
| | - Paolo Montaldo
- Centre for Perinatal Neuroscience, Imperial College London, London W12 0HS, UK; (S.T.); (P.M.)
| | - Maximo Vento
- Neonatal Research Group, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.V.); (J.K.)
| | - Julia Kuligowski
- Neonatal Research Group, Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.V.); (J.K.)
| | - Carol Wagner
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, 10 McClennan Banks Drive, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (C.W.); (B.W.H.)
| | - Bruce W Hollis
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, 10 McClennan Banks Drive, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (C.W.); (B.W.H.)
| | - Donald B Wiest
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Outcomes Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
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11
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Kamath P, Kamath A, Ullal SD. Liver injury associated with drug intake during pregnancy. World J Hepatol 2021; 13:747-762. [PMID: 34367496 PMCID: PMC8326163 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i7.747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug use during pregnancy is not common. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a potential complication that is rare but can adversely affect both the mother and the fetus. Although many drugs can directly cause hepatotoxicity, idiosyncratic liver injury is common in pregnancy. Underreporting of adverse drug reactions, lack of adequate literature regarding drug safety in pregnancy, and the inherent difficulty in diagnosing DILI during pregnancy make the management of this condition challenging. This review attempts to describe the existing literature regarding DILI in pregnancy, which is mainly in the form of case reports; several studies have looked at the safety of antithyroid drugs, antiretroviral drugs, and paracetamol, which have an indication for use in pregnancy; the relevant data from these studies with regard to DILI has been presented. In addition, the review describes the diagnosis of DILI, grading the disease severity, assessment of causality linking the drug to the adverse event, regulatory guidelines for evaluating the potential of drugs to cause liver injury, efforts to ensure better participation of women in clinical trials and studies in pregnant women population in particular, and the challenges involved in generating adequate research evidence. The establishment of DILI registries in various countries is an encouraging development; however, there is a need for promoting active, spontaneous reporting of adverse events during pregnancy to ensure rapid generation of evidence regarding the safety of a drug in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Kamath
- Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India - 575001
| | - Ashwin Kamath
- Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India - 575001
| | - Sheetal D Ullal
- Department of Pharmacology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India - 575001
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12
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Yi SJ, Xiong YW, Zhu HL, Dai LM, Cao XL, Liu WB, Shi XT, Zhou GX, Liu AY, Zhao LL, Zhang C, Gao L, Xu DX, Wang H. Environmental cadmium exposure during pregnancy causes diabetes-like phenotypes in mouse offspring: Association with oxidative stress in the fetal liver. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 777:146006. [PMID: 33677283 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd), a noxious heavy metal, is widespread in the living environment. Gestational exposure to Cd at environmental dose has been shown to cause fetal growth restriction (FGR). However, the long-term effects and the mechanisms underlying environmental Cd exposure on glucose metabolism in offspring remain unclear. Here, we established a murine model to study the impacts of gestational exposure to environmental Cd on glucose metabolism at different life stages of offspring. Results demonstrated that the offspring mice developed hyperglycemia in puberty and impaired glucose tolerance in adulthood following maternal Cd exposure during gestation. Further mechanistic investigation showed that Cd exposure upregulated the expression of key proteins in hepatic gluconeogenesis, including p-CREB, PGC-1α and G6PC, in pubertal and adult offspring. In addition, we demonstrated that Cd exposure during pregnancy markedly elevated the level of oxidative stress-related proteins, including NOX2, NOX4 and HO-1, in the fetal liver. The effects of gestational exposure to N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a free-radical scavenging antioxidant, presented that NAC supplementation alleviated hepatic oxidative stress in fetuses, and thereby reversed hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance in mouse offspring. Collectively, our data suggested that gestational exposure to environmental Cd caused diabetes-like phenotypes via enhancing hepatic gluconeogenesis, which is associated with oxidative stress in fetal livers. This work provides new insights into the protective effects of antioxidants on fetal-originated diabetes triggered by environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song-Jia Yi
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Li-Min Dai
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Xue-Lin Cao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Wei-Bo Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Xue-Ting Shi
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Guo-Xiang Zhou
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - A-Ying Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ling-Li Zhao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Lan Gao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, China.
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13
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Elsayed NA, Boyer TM, Burd I. Fetal Neuroprotective Strategies: Therapeutic Agents and Their Underlying Synaptic Pathways. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:680899. [PMID: 34248595 PMCID: PMC8262796 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.680899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic signaling is integral for proper brain function. During fetal development, exposure to inflammation or mild hypoxic-ischemic insult may lead to synaptic changes and neurological damage that impairs future brain function. Preterm neonates are most susceptible to these deleterious outcomes. Evaluating clinically used and novel fetal neuroprotective measures is essential for expanding treatment options to mitigate the short and long-term consequences of fetal brain injury. Magnesium sulfate is a clinical fetal neuroprotective agent utilized in cases of imminent preterm birth. By blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, magnesium sulfate reduces glutamatergic signaling, which alters calcium influx, leading to a decrease in excitotoxicity. Emerging evidence suggests that melatonin and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) may also serve as novel putative fetal neuroprotective candidates. Melatonin has important anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is a known mediator of synaptic plasticity and neuronal generation. While NAC acts as an antioxidant and a precursor to glutathione, it also modulates the glutamate system. Glutamate excitotoxicity and dysregulation can induce perinatal preterm brain injury through damage to maturing oligodendrocytes and neurons. The improved drug efficacy and delivery of the dendrimer-bound NAC conjugate provides an opportunity for enhanced pharmacological intervention. Here, we review recent literature on the synaptic pathways underlying these therapeutic strategies, discuss the current gaps in knowledge, and propose future directions for the field of fetal neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada A. Elsayed
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Theresa M. Boyer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Irina Burd
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Tenório MCDS, Graciliano NG, Moura FA, de Oliveira ACM, Goulart MOF. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Impacts on Human Health. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:967. [PMID: 34208683 PMCID: PMC8234027 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a medicine widely used to treat paracetamol overdose and as a mucolytic compound. It has a well-established safety profile, and its toxicity is uncommon and dependent on the route of administration and high dosages. Its remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity is the biochemical basis used to treat several diseases related to oxidative stress and inflammation. The primary role of NAC as an antioxidant stems from its ability to increase the intracellular concentration of glutathione (GSH), which is the most crucial biothiol responsible for cellular redox imbalance. As an anti-inflammatory compound, NAC can reduce levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukins (IL-6 and IL-1β) by suppressing the activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Despite NAC's relevant therapeutic potential, in several experimental studies, its effectiveness in clinical trials, addressing different pathological conditions, is still limited. Thus, the purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the medicinal effects and applications of NAC to human health based on current therapeutic evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nayara Gomes Graciliano
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57072-970, Alagoas, Brazil; (N.G.G.); (A.C.M.d.O.)
| | - Fabiana Andréa Moura
- College of Nutrition, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57072-970, Alagoas, Brazil;
- College of Medicine, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57072-970, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Alane Cabral Menezes de Oliveira
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57072-970, Alagoas, Brazil; (N.G.G.); (A.C.M.d.O.)
- College of Nutrition, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57072-970, Alagoas, Brazil;
| | - Marília Oliveira Fonseca Goulart
- Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57072-970, Alagoas, Brazil;
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57072-970, Alagoas, Brazil; (N.G.G.); (A.C.M.d.O.)
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15
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Lofthouse EM, Manousopoulou A, Cleal JK, O'Kelly IM, Poore KR, Garbis SD, Lewis RM. N-acetylcysteine, xCT and suppression of Maxi-chloride channel activity in human placenta. Placenta 2021; 110:46-55. [PMID: 34120018 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Placental oxidative stress features in pregnancy pathologies but in clinical trials antioxidant supplementation has not improved outcomes. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) stimulates glutathione production and is proposed as a therapeutic agent in pregnancy. However, key elements of N-acetylcysteine biology, including its cellular uptake mechanism, remains unclear. This study explores how the cystine/glutamate transporter xCT may mediate N-acetylcysteine uptake and how N-acetylcysteine alters placental redox status. METHODS The involvement of xCT in NAC uptake by the human placenta was studied in perfused placenta and Xenopus oocytes. The effect of short-term N-acetylcysteine exposure on the placental villous proteome was determined using LC-MS. The effect of N-acetylcysteine on Maxi-chloride channel activity was investigated in perfused placenta, villous fragments and cell culture. RESULTS Maternoplacental N-acetylcysteine administration stimulated intracellular glutamate efflux suggesting a role of the exchange transporter xCT, which was localised to the microvillous membrane of the placental syncytiotrophoblast. Placental exposure to a bolus of N-acetylcysteine inhibited subsequent activation of the redox sensitive Maxi-chloride channel independently of glutathione synthesis. Stable isotope quantitative proteomics of placental villi treated with N-acetylcysteine demonstrated changes in pathways associated with oxidative stress, apoptosis and the acute phase response. DISCUSSION This study suggests that xCT mediates N-acetylcysteine uptake into the placenta and that N-acetylcysteine treatment of placental tissue alters the placental proteome while regulating the redox sensitive Maxi-chloride channel. Interestingly N-acetylcysteine had antioxidant effects independent of the glutathione pathway. Effective placental antioxidant therapy in pregnancy may require maintaining the balance between normalising redox status without inhibiting physiological redox signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Lofthouse
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK.
| | - Antigoni Manousopoulou
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK; Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | | | | | - Spiros D Garbis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK; Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Beckman Institute, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
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Adams LE, Moss HG, Lowe DW, Brown T, Wiest DB, Hollis BW, Singh I, Jenkins DD. NAC and Vitamin D Restore CNS Glutathione in Endotoxin-Sensitized Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:489. [PMID: 33804757 PMCID: PMC8003885 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic hypothermia does not improve outcomes in neonatal hypoxia ischemia (HI) complicated by perinatal infection, due to well-described, pre-existing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation that shorten the therapeutic window. For effective neuroprotection post-injury, we must first define and then target CNS metabolomic changes immediately after endotoxin-sensitized HI (LPS-HI). We hypothesized that LPS-HI would acutely deplete reduced glutathione (GSH), indicating overwhelming oxidative stress in spite of hypothermia treatment in neonatal rats. Post-natal day 7 rats were randomized to sham ligation, or severe LPS-HI (0.5 mg/kg 4 h before right carotid artery ligation, 90 min 8% O2), followed by hypothermia alone or with N-acetylcysteine (25 mg/kg) and vitamin D (1,25(OH)2D3, 0.05 μg/kg) (NVD). We quantified in vivo CNS metabolites by serial 7T MR Spectroscopy before, immediately after LPS-HI, and after treatment, along with terminal plasma drug concentrations. GSH was significantly decreased in all LPS-HI rats compared with baseline and sham controls. Two hours of hypothermia alone did not improve GSH and allowed glutamate + glutamine (GLX) to increase. Within 1 h of administration, NVD increased GSH close to baseline and suppressed GLX. The combination of NVD with hypothermia rapidly improved cellular redox status after LPS-HI, potentially inhibiting important secondary injury cascades and allowing more time for hypothermic neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Adams
- Department of Pediatrics, 10 McLellan Banks Dr, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (L.E.A.); (B.W.H.); (I.S.)
| | - Hunter G. Moss
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, 68 President St. Room 205, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (H.G.M.); (T.B.)
| | - Danielle W. Lowe
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of South Carolina, 67 Presidents St., MSC 861, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
| | - Truman Brown
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, 68 President St. Room 205, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (H.G.M.); (T.B.)
| | - Donald B. Wiest
- Department of Pharmacy and Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
| | - Bruce W. Hollis
- Department of Pediatrics, 10 McLellan Banks Dr, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (L.E.A.); (B.W.H.); (I.S.)
| | - Inderjit Singh
- Department of Pediatrics, 10 McLellan Banks Dr, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (L.E.A.); (B.W.H.); (I.S.)
| | - Dorothea D. Jenkins
- Department of Pediatrics, 10 McLellan Banks Dr, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (L.E.A.); (B.W.H.); (I.S.)
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Antenatal N-acetylcysteine to improve outcomes of premature infants with intra-amniotic infection and inflammation (Triple I): randomized clinical trial. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:175-184. [PMID: 32818949 PMCID: PMC7451831 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-01106-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine infection and/or inflammation (Triple I) is an important cause of preterm birth (PTB) and adverse newborn outcomes. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug safely administered to pregnant women with acetaminophen toxicity. METHODS We conducted a single-center, quadruple-blind, placebo-controlled trial of pregnant women with impending PTB due to confirmed Triple I. Participants (n = 67) were randomized to an intravenous infusion of NAC or placebo mimicking the FDA-approved regimen. Outcomes included clinical measures and mechanistic biomarkers. RESULTS Newborns exposed to NAC (n = 33) had significantly improved status at birth and required less intensive resuscitation compared to placebo (n = 34). Fewer NAC-exposed newborns developed two or more prematurity-related severe morbidities [NAC: 21% vs. placebo: 47%, relative risk, 0.45; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21-0.95] with the strongest protection afforded against bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD, NAC: 3% vs. placebo: 32%, relative risk, 0.10; 95% CI: 0.01-0.73). These effects were independent of gestational age, birth weight, sex, or race. Umbilical cord plasma NAC concentration correlated directly with cysteine, but not with plasma or whole blood glutathione. NAC reduced the placental expression of histone deacetylase-2, suggesting that epigenetic mechanisms may be involved. CONCLUSIONS These data provide support for larger studies of intrapartum NAC to reduce prematurity-related morbidity. IMPACT In this randomized clinical trial of 65 women and their infants, maternal intravenous NAC employing the FDA-approved dosing protocol resulted in lower composite neonatal morbidity independent of gestational age, race, sex, and birthweight. Administration of NAC in amniocentesis-confirmed Triple I resulted in a remarkably lower incidence of BPD. As prior studies have not shown a benefit of postnatal NAC in ventilated infants, our trial highlights the critical antenatal timing of NAC administration. Repurposing of NAC for intrapartum administration should be explored in larger clinical trials as a strategy to improve prematurity-related outcomes and decrease the incidence of BPD.
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18
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Conde-Agudelo A, Romero R, Jung EJ, Garcia Sánchez ÁJ. Management of clinical chorioamnionitis: an evidence-based approach. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 223:848-869. [PMID: 33007269 PMCID: PMC8315154 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
This review aimed to examine the existing evidence about interventions proposed for the treatment of clinical chorioamnionitis, with the goal of developing an evidence-based contemporary approach for the management of this condition. Most trials that assessed the use of antibiotics in clinical chorioamnionitis included patients with a gestational age of ≥34 weeks and in labor. The first-line antimicrobial regimen for the treatment of clinical chorioamnionitis is ampicillin combined with gentamicin, which should be initiated during the intrapartum period. In the event of a cesarean delivery, patients should receive clindamycin at the time of umbilical cord clamping. The administration of additional antibiotic therapy does not appear to be necessary after vaginal or cesarean delivery. However, if postdelivery antibiotics are prescribed, there is support for the administration of an additional dose. Patients can receive antipyretic agents, mainly acetaminophen, even though there is no clear evidence of their benefits. Current evidence suggests that the administration of antenatal corticosteroids for fetal lung maturation and of magnesium sulfate for fetal neuroprotection to patients with clinical chorioamnionitis between 24 0/7 and 33 6/7 weeks of gestation, and possibly between 23 0/7 and 23 6/7 weeks of gestation, has an overall beneficial effect on the infant. However, delivery should not be delayed to complete the full course of corticosteroids and magnesium sulfate. Once the diagnosis of clinical chorioamnionitis has been established, delivery should be considered, regardless of the gestational age. Vaginal delivery is the safer option and cesarean delivery should be reserved for standard obstetrical indications. The time interval between the diagnosis of clinical chorioamnionitis and delivery is not related to most adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Patients may require a higher dose of oxytocin to achieve adequate uterine activity or greater uterine activity to effect a given change in cervical dilation. The benefit of using continuous electronic fetal heart rate monitoring in these patients is unclear. We identified the following promising interventions for the management of clinical chorioamnionitis: (1) an antibiotic regimen including ceftriaxone, clarithromycin, and metronidazole that provides coverage against the most commonly identified microorganisms in patients with clinical chorioamnionitis; (2) vaginal cleansing with antiseptic solutions before cesarean delivery with the aim of decreasing the risk of endometritis and, possibly, postoperative wound infection; and (3) antenatal administration of N-acetylcysteine, an antioxidant and antiinflammatory agent, to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality. Well-powered randomized controlled trials are needed to assess these interventions in patients with clinical chorioamnionitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustin Conde-Agudelo
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI; Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL.
| | - Eun Jung Jung
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Ángel José Garcia Sánchez
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Influence of N-acetylcysteine on steroidogenesis and gene expression in porcine placental trophoblast cells. Theriogenology 2020; 161:49-56. [PMID: 33302164 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a widely used anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant in vivo and in vitro. As a nutritional supplement, NAC can improve production and reproductive performances in animals through enhancing placental function and regulating hormone production. Trophoblast proliferation and steroid hormone production are two major functions in the placenta. We hypothesized that the effects of NAC on placental function is due to its direct and indirect effects on gene expression in placental trophoblast cells (pTr). To evaluate this hypothesis, we investigated the effects of NAC on steroidogenesis, gene expression, and cell proliferation in porcine pTr in vitro. pTr were treated with NAC in serum-free medium for 24 h with different concentrations (0, 0.1 μM, 1.0 μM, 10.0 μM, 0.1 mM, 1.0 mM, and 10.0 mM). Low-dose NAC (1 μM) stimulated pTr proliferation and decreased progesterone production, while increasing estradiol production (P < 0.05). High-dose NAC (10 mM) suppressed cell proliferation (P < 0.05), but had no effect on steroidogenesis. Low-dose NAC increased CCDN1 and decreased CASP3 and CASP8 mRNA levels (P < 0.05), whereas high-dose NAC decreased CDK4 and CCDN1 and increased CASP3 mRNA levels (P < 0.05). NAC had no effect on the mRNA abundance of StAR and HSD3B. Low-dose NAC upregulated CYP19A1 mRNA expression, and high-dose NAC downregulated CYP11A1 mRNA abundance (P < 0.05). Only low-dose NAC increased NOS3 mRNA abundance and tetrahydrobiopterin reduction (BH4/BH2 ratio). We conclude that NAC may act directly and indirectly on pTr with a dose-dependent manner and may regulate placental function by affecting pTr differentiation via regulating pTr steroid synthesis, cell proliferation, and apoptosis in sows.
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Zmora O, Gutzeit O, Segal L, Boulos S, Millo Z, Ginsberg Y, Khatib N, Dabbah-Assad F, Fainaru O, Weiner Z, Beloosesky R. Prophylactic antenatal N-Acetyl Cysteine administration combined with postnatal administration can decrease mortality and injury markers associated with necrotizing enterocolitis in a rat model. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233612. [PMID: 32479520 PMCID: PMC7263616 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating gastrointestinal disease of neonates, especially premature neonates. To date, there is no prophylactic treatment against NEC, except breast milk and slow increase in enteral feeding, and there is no antenatal prophylaxis. AIMS To assess possible protective effects of antenatal N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) against the intestinal pathophysiological changes associated with NEC in a rat model of NEC and against its associated mortality. METHODS Newborn Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups: control (n = 33); NEC (n = 32)-subjected to hypoxia and formula feeding for 4 days to induce NEC; NEC-NAC (n = 34)-with induced NEC and concomitant postnatal NAC administration; NAC-NEC (n = 33)-born to dams treated with NAC for the last 3 days of pregnancy starting at gestational age of 18 days, and then subjected to induced NEC after birth; NAC-NEC-NAC (n = 36)-subjected to induced NEC with both prenatal and postnatal NAC treatment. At day of life 5, weight and survival of pups in the different groups were examined, and pups were euthanized. Ileal TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10, NFkB p65, iNOS and cleaved caspase 3 protein levels (western blot) and mRNA expression (RT-PCR) were compared between groups. RESULTS Pup mortality was significantly reduced in the NAC-NEC-NAC group compared to NEC (11% vs. 34%, P<0.05). Ileal protein levels and mRNA expression of all injury markers tested except IL-10 were significantly increased in NEC compared to control. These markers were significantly reduced in all NAC treatment groups (NEC-NAC, NAC-NEC, and NAC-NEC-NAC) compared to NEC. The most pronounced decrease was observed in the NAC-NEC NAC group. CONCLUSIONS Antenatal NAC decreases injury markers and mortality associated with NEC in a rat model. Antenatal administration of NAC may present a novel approach for NEC prophylaxis in pregnancies with risk for preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osnat Zmora
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Ola Gutzeit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Linoy Segal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sari Boulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Zvika Millo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yuval Ginsberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Nizar Khatib
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Fadwa Dabbah-Assad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ofer Fainaru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Zeev Weiner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ron Beloosesky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
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21
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Michlin M, Argaev-Frenkel L, Weinstein-Fudim L, Ornoy A, Rosenzweig T. Maternal N-Acetyl Cysteine Intake Improved Glucose Tolerance in Obese Mice Offspring. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1981. [PMID: 32183232 PMCID: PMC7139991 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21061981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to certain environmental factors during the early stages of development was found to affect health in adulthood. Among other environmental factors, oxidative stress has been suggested to be involved in fetal programming, leading to elevated risk for metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes; however, the possibility that antioxidant consumption during early life may affect the development of diabetes has scarcely been studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) given during pregnancy and lactation on the susceptibility of offspring to develop glucose intolerance at adulthood. C57bl6/J mice were given NAC during pregnancy and lactation. High fat diet (HFD) was given to offspring at an age of 6 weeks for an additional 9 weeks, till the end of the study. Isolated islets of NAC-treated offspring (6 weeks old, before HFD feeding) had an increased efficacy of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and a higher resistance to oxidative damage. Following HFD feeding, glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity of NAC-treated offspring were improved. In addition, islet diameter was lower in male offspring of NAC-treated mice compared to their HFD-fed littermates. NAC consumption during early life improves glucose tolerance in adulthood in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Michlin
- Departments of Molecular Biology and Nutrition Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel; (M.M.); (L.A.-F.)
| | - Lital Argaev-Frenkel
- Departments of Molecular Biology and Nutrition Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel; (M.M.); (L.A.-F.)
| | - Liza Weinstein-Fudim
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel; (L.W.-F.); (A.O.)
| | - Asher Ornoy
- Laboratory of Teratology, Department of Medical Neurobiology, Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel; (L.W.-F.); (A.O.)
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel
| | - Tovit Rosenzweig
- Departments of Molecular Biology and Nutrition Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel 40700, Israel; (M.M.); (L.A.-F.)
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Tessier MEM, Shneider BL, Brandt ML, Cerminara DN, Harpavat S. A phase 2 trial of N-Acetylcysteine in Biliary atresia after Kasai portoenterostomy. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2019; 15:100370. [PMID: 31193715 PMCID: PMC6542754 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2019.100370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biliary atresia (BA) is a life-threatening liver disease of infancy, characterized by extrahepatic biliary obstruction, bile retention, and progressive liver injury. The Kasai portoenterostomy (KP) is BA's only nontransplant treatment. Its success is variable and depends on restoration of hepatic bile flow. Many adjunctive therapeutics have been studied to improve outcomes after the KP, but none demonstrate effectiveness. This study tests if N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a precursor to the choleretic glutathione, improves bile flow after KP. METHODS This report describes the design of an open-label, single center, Phase 2 study to determine the effect of NAC following KP on markers of bile flow and outcomes in BA. The intervention is intravenous NAC (150 mg/kg/day) administered continuously for seven days starting 0-24 h after KP. The primary outcome is normalization of total serum bile acid (TSBA) concentrations within 24 weeks of KP. The secondary objectives are to describe NAC therapy's effect on other clinical parameters followed in BA for 24 months and to report adverse events occurring with therapy. This study follows the "minimax" clinical trial design. DISCUSSION This is the first clinical trial to test NAC's effectiveness in improving bile flow after KP in BA. It introduces three important concepts for future BA therapeutic trials: (1) the "minimax" study design, a pertinent design for rare diseases because it detects potential effects quickly with small subject size; (2) the more sensitive bile flow marker, TSBAs, which may correlate with positive long-term outcomes better than traditional bile flow markers such as serum bilirubin; and (3) liver enzyme changes immediately after KP, which can be a guideline for potential drug-induced liver injury in other BA peri-operative adjunctive therapeutic trials.
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Key Words
- ALT, Alanine transaminase
- AST, Aspartate aminotransferase
- BA, Biliary atresia
- Bc, Conjugated bilirubin
- Biliary atresia
- DILI, Drug-induced liver injury
- DSMB, Data and Safety Monitoring Board
- DoL, Day of life
- Drug-induced liver injury
- FDA, Food and Drug administration
- GGT, Gamma-glutamlytransferase
- IOC, Intraoperative cholangiogram
- KP, Kasai portoenterostomy
- Kasai portoenterostomy
- Minimax design
- N-acetylcysteine
- NAC, N-acetylcysteine
- START, Steroids in Biliary Atresia Randomized Trial
- Serum bile acids
- TB, Total bilirubin
- TCH, Texas Children's Hospital
- TSBA, Total serum bile acids
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Elizabeth M. Tessier
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, CCC 1010, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Benjamin L. Shneider
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, CCC 1010, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Mary L. Brandt
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, CCC 1010, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dana N. Cerminara
- Department of Pharmacy, Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, CCC 1010, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sanjiv Harpavat
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, CCC 1010, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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Therapeutic N-Acetyl-Cysteine (Nac) Following Initiation of Maternal Inflammation Attenuates Long-Term Offspring Cerebral Injury, as Evident in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Neuroscience 2019; 403:118-124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Revised: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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van Bel F, Vaes J, Groenendaal F. Prevention, Reduction and Repair of Brain Injury of the Preterm Infant. Front Physiol 2019; 10:181. [PMID: 30949060 PMCID: PMC6435588 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Frank van Bel
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital and Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Josine Vaes
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Developmental Origins of Disease, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Floris Groenendaal
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital and Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Onoda A, Takeda K, Umezawa M. Dysregulation of major functional genes in frontal cortex by maternal exposure to carbon black nanoparticle is not ameliorated by ascorbic acid pretreatment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 634:1126-1135. [PMID: 29660869 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Recent cohort studies have revealed that perinatal exposure to particulate air pollution, including carbon-based nanoparticles, increases the risk of brain disorders. Although developmental neurotoxicity is currently a major issue in the toxicology of nanoparticles, critical information for understanding the mechanisms underlying the developmental neurotoxicity of airway exposure to carbon black nanoparticle (CB-NP) is still lacking. In order to investigate these mechanisms, we comprehensively analyzed fluctuations in the gene expression profile of the frontal cortex of offspring mice exposed maternally to CB-NP, using microarray analysis combined with Gene Ontology information. We also analyzed differences in the enriched function of genes dysregulated by maternal CB-NP exposure with and without ascorbic acid pretreatment to refine specific alterations in gene expression induced by CB-NP. Total of 652 and 775 genes were dysregulated by CB-NP in the frontal cortex of 6- and 12-week-old offspring mice, respectively. Among the genes dysregulated by CB-NP, those related to extracellular matrix structural constituent, cellular response to interferon-beta, muscle organ development, and cysteine-type endopeptidase inhibitor activity were ameliorated by ascorbic acid pretreatment. A large proportion of the dysregulated genes, categorized in hemostasis, growth factor, chemotaxis, cell proliferation, blood vessel, and dopaminergic neurotransmission, were, however, not ameliorated by ascorbic acid pretreatment. The lack of effects of ascorbic acid on the dysregulation of genes following maternal CB-NP exposure suggests that the contribution of oxidative stress to the effects of CB-NP on these biological functions, i.e., cell migration and proliferation, blood vessel maintenance, and dopaminergic neuron system, may be limited. At least, ascorbic acid pretreatment is hardly likely to be able to protect the brain of offspring from developmental neurotoxicity of CB-NP. The present study provides insight into the mechanisms underlying developmental neurotoxicity following maternal nanoparticle exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuto Onoda
- Department of Hygienic Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8510, Japan; The Center for Environmental Health Science for the Next Generation, Research Institute for Science and Technology, Organization for Research Advancement, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8510, Japan; Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, 5-3-1 Kouji-machi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan.
| | - Ken Takeda
- The Center for Environmental Health Science for the Next Generation, Research Institute for Science and Technology, Organization for Research Advancement, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8510, Japan.
| | - Masakazu Umezawa
- The Center for Environmental Health Science for the Next Generation, Research Institute for Science and Technology, Organization for Research Advancement, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda, Chiba 278-8510, Japan; Department of Materials Science and Technology, Faculty of Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika, Tokyo 125-8585, Japan.
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26
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Schoots MH, Gordijn SJ, Scherjon SA, van Goor H, Hillebrands JL. Oxidative stress in placental pathology. Placenta 2018; 69:153-161. [PMID: 29622278 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2018.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The most important function of the placenta is the exchange of nutrients and oxygen between a mother and her fetus. To establish a healthy functioning placenta, placentation needs to occur with adequate remodelling of spiral arteries by extravillous trophoblasts. When this process is impaired, the resulting suboptimal and inadequate placenta function results in the manifestation of pregnancy complications. Impaired placenta function can cause preeclampsia and leads to fetal growth restriction due to hypoxia. Presence of hypoxia leads to oxidative stress due to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidants, thereby causing damage to proteins, lipids and DNA. In the placenta, signs of morphological adaptation in response to hypoxia can be found. Different placental lesions like maternal or fetal vascular malperfusion or chronic villitis lead to a decreased exchange of oxygen between the mother and the fetus. Clinically, several biomarkers indicative for oxidative stress, e.g. malondialdehyde and reduced levels of free thiols are found. This review aims to give an overview of the causes and (potential) role of placental oxidative stress in the development of placental parenchymal pathology and its clinical consequences. Also, therapeutic options aiming at prevention or treatment of hypoxia of the placenta and fetus are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirthe H Schoots
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Pathology Section, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Sanne J Gordijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sicco A Scherjon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Pathology Section, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Luuk Hillebrands
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Pathology Section, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
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Bhatti J, Nascimento B, Akhtar U, Rhind SG, Tien H, Nathens A, da Luz LT. Systematic Review of Human and Animal Studies Examining the Efficacy and Safety of N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) and N-Acetylcysteine Amide (NACA) in Traumatic Brain Injury: Impact on Neurofunctional Outcome and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. Front Neurol 2018; 8:744. [PMID: 29387038 PMCID: PMC5776005 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2017.00744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background No new therapies for traumatic brain injury (TBI) have been officially translated into current practice. At the tissue and cellular level, both inflammatory and oxidative processes may be exacerbated post-injury and contribute to further brain damage. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has the potential to downregulate both processes. This review focuses on the potential neuroprotective utility of NAC and N-acetylcysteine amide (NACA) post-TBI. Methods Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched up to July 2017. Studies that examined clinical and laboratory effects of NAC and NACA post-TBI in human and animal studies were included. Risk of bias was assessed in human and animal studies according to the design of each study (randomized or not). The primary outcome assessed was the effect of NAC/NACA treatment on functional outcome, while secondary outcomes included the impact on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidation. Due to the clinical and methodological heterogeneity observed across studies, no meta-analyses were conducted. Results Our analyses revealed only three human trials, including two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 20 animal studies conducted using standardized animal models of brain injury. The two RCTs reported improvement in the functional outcome post-NAC/NACA administration. Overall, the evidence from animal studies is more robust and demonstrated substantial improvement of cognition and psychomotor performance following NAC/NACA use. Animal studies also reported significantly more cortical sparing, reduced apoptosis, and lower levels of biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. No safety concerns were reported in any of the studies included in this analysis. Conclusion Evidence from the animal literature demonstrates a robust association for the prophylactic application of NAC and NACA post-TBI with improved neurofunctional outcomes and downregulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers at the tissue level. While a growing body of scientific literature suggests putative beneficial effects of NAC/NACA treatment for TBI, the lack of well-designed and controlled clinical investigations, evaluating therapeutic outcomes, prognostic biomarkers, and safety profiles, limits definitive interpretation and recommendations for its application in humans at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Bhatti
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Barto Nascimento
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Umbreen Akhtar
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Shawn G Rhind
- Defense Research and Development Canada (DRDC), Toronto Research Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Homer Tien
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Avery Nathens
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Luis Teodoro da Luz
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Maternal dendrimer-based therapy for inflammation-induced preterm birth and perinatal brain injury. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6106. [PMID: 28733619 PMCID: PMC5522481 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06113-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth is a major risk factor for adverse neurological outcomes in ex-preterm children, including motor, cognitive, and behavioral disabilities. N-acetyl-L-cysteine therapy has been used in clinical studies; however, it requires doses that cause significant side effects. In this study, we explore the effect of low dose N-acetyl-L-cysteine therapy, delivered using a targeted, systemic, maternal, dendrimer nanoparticle (DNAC), in a mouse model of intrauterine inflammation. Our results demonstrated that intraperitoneal maternal DNAC administration significantly reduced the preterm birth rate and altered placental immune profile with decreased CD8+ T-cell infiltration. Furthermore, we demonstrated that DNAC improved neurobehavioral outcomes and reduced fetal neuroinflammation and long-term microglial activation in offspring. Our study is the first to provide evidence for the role of CD8+ T-cell in the maternal-fetal interface during inflammation and further support the efficacy of DNAC in preventing preterm birth and prematurity-related outcomes.
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Clark RSB, Empey PE, Bayır H, Rosario BL, Poloyac SM, Kochanek PM, Nolin TD, Au AK, Horvat CM, Wisniewski SR, Bell MJ. Phase I randomized clinical trial of N-acetylcysteine in combination with an adjuvant probenecid for treatment of severe traumatic brain injury in children. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180280. [PMID: 28686657 PMCID: PMC5501440 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are no therapies shown to improve outcome after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in humans, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. We sought to verify brain exposure of the systemically administered antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and the synergistic adjuvant probenecid, and identify adverse effects of this drug combination after severe TBI in children. Methods IRB-approved, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled Phase I study in children 2 to 18 years-of-age admitted to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit after severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score ≤8) requiring an externalized ventricular drain for measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP). Patients were recruited from November 2011-August 2013. Fourteen patients (n = 7/group) were randomly assigned after obtaining informed consent to receive probenecid (25 mg/kg load, then 10 mg/kg/dose q6h×11 doses) and NAC (140 mg/kg load, then 70 mg/kg/dose q4h×17 doses), or placebos via naso/orogastric tube. Serum and CSF samples were drawn pre-bolus and 1–96 h after randomization and drug concentrations were measured via UPLC-MS/MS. Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) score was assessed at 3 months. Results There were no adverse events attributable to drug treatment. One patient in the placebo group was withdrawn due to adverse effects. In the treatment group, NAC concentrations ranged from 16,977.3±2,212.3 to 16,786.1±3,285.3 in serum and from 269.3±113.0 to 467.9±262.7 ng/mL in CSF, at 24 to 72 h post-bolus, respectively; and probenecid concentrations ranged from 75.4.3±10.0 to 52.9±25.8 in serum and 5.4±1.0 to 4.6±2.1 μg/mL in CSF, at 24 to 72 h post-bolus, respectively (mean±SEM). Temperature, mean arterial pressure, ICP, use of ICP-directed therapies, surveillance serum brain injury biomarkers, and GOS at 3 months were not different between groups. Conclusions Treatment resulted in detectable concentrations of NAC and probenecid in CSF and was not associated with undesirable effects after TBI in children. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01322009
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert S. B. Clark
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Philip E. Empey
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Center for Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Hülya Bayır
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Bedda L. Rosario
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Samuel M. Poloyac
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Center for Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Patrick M. Kochanek
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Thomas D. Nolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Center for Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Alicia K. Au
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Horvat
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Stephen R. Wisniewski
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Bell
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Herrera EA, Cifuentes-Zúñiga F, Figueroa E, Villanueva C, Hernández C, Alegría R, Arroyo-Jousse V, Peñaloza E, Farías M, Uauy R, Casanello P, Krause BJ. N-Acetylcysteine, a glutathione precursor, reverts vascular dysfunction and endothelial epigenetic programming in intrauterine growth restricted guinea pigs. J Physiol 2016; 595:1077-1092. [PMID: 27739590 DOI: 10.1113/jp273396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with vascular dysfunction, oxidative stress and signs of endothelial epigenetic programming of the umbilical vessels. There is no evidence that this epigenetic programming is occurring on systemic fetal arteries. In IUGR guinea pigs we studied the functional and epigenetic programming of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) (Nos3 gene) in umbilical and systemic fetal arteries, addressing the role of oxidative stress in this process by maternal treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) during the second half of gestation. The present study suggests that IUGR endothelial cells have common molecular markers of programming in umbilical and systemic arteries. Notably, maternal treatment with NAC restores fetal growth by increasing placental efficiency and reverting the functional and epigenetic programming of eNOS in arterial endothelium in IUGR guinea pigs. ABSTRACT In humans, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with vascular dysfunction, oxidative stress and signs of endothelial programming in umbilical vessels. We aimed to determine the effects of maternal antioxidant treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on fetal endothelial function and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) programming in IUGR guinea pigs. IUGR was induced by implanting ameroid constrictors on uterine arteries of pregnant guinea pigs at mid gestation, half of the sows receiving NAC in the drinking water (from day 34 until term). Fetal biometry and placental vascular resistance were followed by ultrasound throughout gestation. At term, umbilical arteries and fetal aortae were isolated to assess endothelial function by wire-myography. Primary cultures of endothelial cells (ECs) from fetal aorta, femoral and umbilical arteries were used to determine eNOS mRNA levels by quantitative PCR and analyse DNA methylation in the Nos3 promoter by pyrosequencing. Doppler ultrasound measurements showed that NAC reduced placental vascular resistance in IUGR (P < 0.05) and recovered fetal weight (P < 0.05), increasing fetal-to-placental ratio at term (∼40%) (P < 0.001). In IUGR, NAC treatment restored eNOS-dependent relaxation in aorta and umbilical arteries (P < 0.05), normalizing eNOS mRNA levels in EC fetal and umbilical arteries (P < 0.05). IUGR-derived ECs had a decreased DNA methylation (∼30%) at CpG -170 (from the transcription start site) and this epigenetic signature was absent in NAC-treated fetuses (P < 0.001). These data show that IUGR-ECs have common molecular markers of eNOS programming in umbilical and systemic arteries and this effect is prevented by maternal treatment with antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio A Herrera
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Av. Salvador 486, Providencia 7500922, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisca Cifuentes-Zúñiga
- Department of Neonatology, Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - Esteban Figueroa
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Av. Salvador 486, Providencia 7500922, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Villanueva
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Av. Salvador 486, Providencia 7500922, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cherie Hernández
- Department of Neonatology, Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile.,Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - René Alegría
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Av. Salvador 486, Providencia 7500922, Santiago, Chile
| | - Viviana Arroyo-Jousse
- Department of Neonatology, Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - Estefania Peñaloza
- Department of Neonatology, Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marcelo Farías
- Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ricardo Uauy
- Department of Neonatology, Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paola Casanello
- Department of Neonatology, Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile.,Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bernardo J Krause
- Department of Neonatology, Division of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Marcoleta 391, Santiago 8330024, Santiago, Chile
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31
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Ireland DJ, Nathan EA, Li S, Charles AK, Stinson LF, Kemp MW, Newnham JP, Keelan JA. Preclinical evaluation of drugs to block inflammation-driven preterm birth. Innate Immun 2016; 23:20-33. [PMID: 27821647 DOI: 10.1177/1753425916672313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine inflammation, the major cause of early preterm birth, can have microbial and sterile aetiologies. We assessed in a Transwell model the anti-inflammatory efficacies of five drugs on human extraplacental membranes delivered after preterm spontaneous labour (30-34 wk). Drugs [TPCA1 (IKKβ inhibitor), 5 z-7-oxozeaenol (OxZ, TAK1 inhibitor), inhibitor of NF-κB essential modulator binding domain (iNBD), SB239063 (p38 MAPK inhibitor) and N-acetyl cysteine (free radical scavenger free radicals)] were added after 12 h equilibration to the amniotic compartment. Concentrations of IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-1β and PGE2 in the media, and IL6, TNFA and PTGS2 mRNA expression levels in membranes, were determined after 12 h. Data were analysed using mixed models analyses. Thirteen of the 28 membranes had histological chorioamnionitis (HCA+); five were positive for bacterial culture and six for fetal inflammatory reaction. Baseline PGE2 and cytokine production was similar between HCA- and HCA+ membranes. Anti-inflammatory effects were also similar between HCA- and HCA+ membranes. TPCA1 and OxZ were the most effective drugs; each inhibited amniotic secretion of 4/5 pro-inflammatory mediators and mRNA levels of 2/3, regardless of stimulus. We conclude that treatment with TPCA1 or OxZ, in combination with antibiotics, may minimise the adverse effects of intrauterine inflammation in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demelza J Ireland
- 1 School of Women's and Infants' Health, King Edward Memorial Hospital, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Nathan
- 1 School of Women's and Infants' Health, King Edward Memorial Hospital, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,2 Women and Infants Research Foundation of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shaofu Li
- 1 School of Women's and Infants' Health, King Edward Memorial Hospital, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,2 Women and Infants Research Foundation of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Adrian K Charles
- 3 Department of Pathology, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lisa F Stinson
- 1 School of Women's and Infants' Health, King Edward Memorial Hospital, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- 1 School of Women's and Infants' Health, King Edward Memorial Hospital, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,2 Women and Infants Research Foundation of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - John P Newnham
- 1 School of Women's and Infants' Health, King Edward Memorial Hospital, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,2 Women and Infants Research Foundation of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jeffrey A Keelan
- 1 School of Women's and Infants' Health, King Edward Memorial Hospital, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,2 Women and Infants Research Foundation of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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32
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Jenkins DD, Wiest DB, Mulvihill DM, Hlavacek AM, Majstoravich SJ, Brown TR, Taylor JJ, Buckley JR, Turner RP, Rollins LG, Bentzley JP, Hope KE, Barbour AB, Lowe DW, Martin RH, Chang EY. Fetal and Neonatal Effects of N-Acetylcysteine When Used for Neuroprotection in Maternal Chorioamnionitis. J Pediatr 2016; 168:67-76.e6. [PMID: 26545726 PMCID: PMC4698030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2015.09.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical safety of antenatal and postnatal N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a neuroprotective agent in maternal chorioamnionitis in a randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial. STUDY DESIGN Twenty-two mothers >24 weeks gestation presenting within 4 hours of diagnosis of clinical chorioamnionitis were randomized with their 24 infants to NAC or saline treatment. Antenatal NAC (100 mg/kg/dose) or saline was given intravenously every 6 hours until delivery. Postnatally, NAC (12.5-25 mg/kg/dose, n = 12) or saline (n = 12) was given every 12 hours for 5 doses. Doppler studies of fetal umbilical and fetal and infant cerebral blood flow, cranial ultrasounds, echocardiograms, cerebral oxygenation, electroencephalograms, and serum cytokines were evaluated before and after treatment, and 12, 24, and 48 hours after birth. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy and diffusion imaging were performed at term age equivalent. Development was followed for cerebral palsy or autism to 4 years of age. RESULTS Cardiovascular measures, cerebral blood flow velocity and vascular resistance, and cerebral oxygenation did not differ between treatment groups. Cerebrovascular coupling was disrupted in infants with chorioamnionitis treated with saline but preserved in infants treated with NAC, suggesting improved vascular regulation in the presence of neuroinflammation. Infants treated with NAC had higher serum anti-inflammatory interleukin-1 receptor antagonist and lower proinflammatory vascular endothelial growth factor over time vs controls. No adverse events related to NAC administration were noted. CONCLUSIONS In this cohort of newborns exposed to chorioamnionitis, antenatal and postnatal NAC was safe, preserved cerebrovascular regulation, and increased an anti-inflammatory neuroprotective protein. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00724594.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea D. Jenkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Donald B. Wiest
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Outcome Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Denise M. Mulvihill
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Anthony M. Hlavacek
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | - Truman R. Brown
- Department of Neuroscience’s Center for Advanced Imaging Research, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Joseph J. Taylor
- Department of Neuroscience’s Center for Advanced Imaging Research, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Jason R. Buckley
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Robert P. Turner
- Department of Clinical Pediatrics and Neurology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine and Palmetto Health Richland Children’s Hospital, Columbia, SC
| | | | - Jessica P. Bentzley
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Kathryn E. Hope
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Andrew B. Barbour
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Danielle W. Lowe
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Renee H. Martin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Eugene Y. Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
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33
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Nance E, Porambo M, Zhang F, Mishra MK, Buelow M, Getzenberg R, Johnston M, Kannan RM, Fatemi A, Kannan S. Systemic dendrimer-drug treatment of ischemia-induced neonatal white matter injury. J Control Release 2015; 214:112-20. [PMID: 26184052 PMCID: PMC4732874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Extreme prematurity is a major risk factor for perinatal and neonatal brain injury, and can lead to white matter injury that is a precursor for a number of neurological diseases, including cerebral palsy (CP) and autism. Neuroinflammation, mediated by activated microglia and astrocytes, is implicated in the pathogenesis of neonatal brain injury. Therefore, targeted drug delivery to attenuate neuroinflammation may greatly improve therapeutic outcomes in models of perinatal white matter injury. In this work, we use a mouse model of ischemia-induced neonatal white matter injury to study the biodistribution of generation 4, hydroxyl-functionalized polyamidoamine dendrimers. Following systemic administration of the Cy5-labeled dendrimer (D-Cy5), we demonstrate dendrimer uptake in cells involved in ischemic injury, and in ongoing inflammation, leading to secondary injury. The sub-acute response to injury is driven by astrocytes. Within five days of injury, microglial proliferation and migration occurs, along with limited differentiation of oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte death. From one day to five days after injury, a shift in dendrimer co-localization occurred. Initially, dendrimer predominantly co-localized with astrocytes, with a subsequent shift towards microglia. Co-localization with oligodendrocytes reduced over the same time period, demonstrating a region-specific uptake based on the progression of the injury. We further show that systemic administration of a single dose of dendrimer-N-acetyl cysteine conjugate (D-NAC) at either sub-acute or delayed time points after injury results in sustained attenuation of the 'detrimental' pro-inflammatory response up to 9days after injury, while not impacting the 'favorable' anti-inflammatory response. The D-NAC therapy also led to improvement in myelination, suggesting reduced white matter injury. Demonstration of treatment efficacy at later time points in the postnatal period provides a greater understanding of how microglial activation and chronic inflammation can be targeted to treat neonatal brain injury. Importantly, it may also provide a longer therapeutic window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Nance
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD21205, United States
| | - Michael Porambo
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Fan Zhang
- Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD21205, United States; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States
| | - Manoj K Mishra
- Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD21205, United States; Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 21205, United States
| | - Markus Buelow
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Rachel Getzenberg
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Michael Johnston
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Rangaramanujam M Kannan
- Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD21205, United States; Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 21205, United States
| | - Ali Fatemi
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Sujatha Kannan
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States; Center for Nanomedicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD21205, United States; Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
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Dell'Ovo V, Rosenzweig J, Burd I, Merabova N, Darbinian N, Goetzl L. An animal model for chorioamnionitis at term. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:387.e1-10. [PMID: 25979619 PMCID: PMC4806536 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to develop an animal model for intrapartum inflammation at term to investigate the interactions between maternal and fetal inflammatory responses and adverse neurologic outcome. STUDY DESIGN Lipopolysaccharide (160, 320, or 640 μg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to day 20 term-pregnant Sprague Dawley rat dams 2, 4, and 6 hours before sample collection. Maternal outcomes included dam core temperature and plasma interleukin 6 (IL-6). Fetal outcomes included plasma IL-6, brain IL-6 messenger RNA expression, and brain IL-6 protein expression. Primary cortical cell cultures were prepared to examine neuronal morphologic condition. Neurite counts were obtained with the use of automated Sholl analysis. RESULTS Maternal plasma IL-6 levels peaked 2 hours after lipopolysaccharide stimulus and rapidly resolved, except for an observed low level persistence at 6 hours with 640 μg/kg. Fetal plasma and placental IL-6 expression also peaked rapidly but only persisted in placental samples. Fetal brain IL-6 RNA and protein expression was significantly higher than control litters at 6 hours after the exposure to both 320 μg/kg (P ≤ .05) and 640 μg/kg (P ≤ .01). Cortical cells from fetuses that were exposed for 6 hours to maternal systemic inflammation showed reduced neurite number and neurite length (P < .001) with increasing lipopolysaccharide dose. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that fetal brain injury follows isolated systemic maternal inflammation and that fetal brain inflammation lags after maternal stimulus, which creates a potential 4-hour clinical window for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Dell'Ovo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jason Rosenzweig
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Irina Burd
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Nana Merabova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nune Darbinian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Laura Goetzl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Neural Repair and Rehabilitation, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA.
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Monti L, Paganini C, Lecci S, De Leonardis F, Hay E, Cohen-Solal M, Villani S, Superti-Furga A, Tenni R, Forlino A, Rossi A. N-acetylcysteine treatment ameliorates the skeletal phenotype of a mouse model of diastrophic dysplasia. Hum Mol Genet 2015. [PMID: 26206888 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Diastrophic dysplasia (DTD) is a recessive chondrodysplasia caused by mutations in SLC26A2, a cell membrane sulfate-chloride antiporter. Sulfate uptake impairment results in low cytosolic sulfate, leading to cartilage proteoglycan (PG) undersulfation. In this work, we used the dtd mouse model to study the role of N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), a well-known drug with antioxidant properties, as an intracellular sulfate source for macromolecular sulfation. Because of the important pre-natal phase of skeletal development and growth, we administered 30 g/l NAC in the drinking water to pregnant mice to explore a possible transplacental effect on the fetuses. When cartilage PG sulfation was evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography disaccharide analysis in dtd newborn mice, a marked increase in PG sulfation was observed in newborns from NAC-treated pregnancies when compared with the placebo group. Morphometric studies of the femur, tibia and ilium after skeletal staining with alcian blue and alizarin red indicated a partial rescue of abnormal bone morphology in dtd newborns from treated females, compared with pups from untreated females. The beneficial effect of increased macromolecular sulfation was confirmed by chondrocyte proliferation studies in cryosections of the tibial epiphysis by proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunohistochemistry: the percentage of proliferating cells, significantly reduced in the placebo group, reached normal values in dtd newborns from NAC-treated females. In conclusion, NAC is a useful source of sulfate for macromolecular sulfation in vivo when extracellular sulfate supply is reduced, confirming the potential of therapeutic approaches with thiol compounds to improve skeletal deformity and short stature in human DTD and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Monti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry and
| | | | - Silvia Lecci
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry and
| | | | - Eric Hay
- Inserm U1132 and University Paris 7, Hopital Lariboisiere, 75010 Paris, France and
| | - Martine Cohen-Solal
- Inserm U1132 and University Paris 7, Hopital Lariboisiere, 75010 Paris, France and
| | - Simona Villani
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Superti-Furga
- Department of Pediatrics, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Ruggero Tenni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry and
| | | | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Biochemistry and
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Bentzley JP, Coker-Bolt P, Moreau NG, Hope K, Ramakrishnan V, Brown T, Mulvihill D, Jenkins D. Kinematic measurement of 12-week head control correlates with 12-month neurodevelopment in preterm infants. Early Hum Dev 2015; 91:159-64. [PMID: 25621433 PMCID: PMC4324091 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2015.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 01/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although new interventions treating neonatal brain injury show great promise, our current ability to predict clinical functional outcomes is poor. Quantitative biomarkers of long-term neurodevelopmental outcome are critically needed to gauge treatment efficacy. Kinematic measures derived from commonly used developmental tasks may serve as early objective markers of future motor outcomes. AIM To develop reliable kinematic markers of head control at 12week corrected gestational age (CGA) from two motor tasks: head lifting in prone and pull-to-sit. STUDY DESIGN AND SUBJECTS Prospective observational study of 22 preterm infants born between 24 and 34weeks of gestation. OUTCOME MEASURES Bayley Scales of Infant Development III (Bayley) motor scores. RESULTS Intrarater and interrater reliability of prone head lift angles and pull-to-sit head angles were excellent. Prone head lift angles at 12week CGA correlated with white matter NAA/Cho, concurrent Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) scores, and 12-month Bayley motor scores. Head angles during pull-to-sit at 12-week CGA correlated with TIMP scores. CONCLUSIONS Poor ability to lift the head in prone and an inability to align the head with the trunk during the pull-to-sit task were associated with poorer future motor outcome scores. Kinematic measurements of head control in early infancy may serve as reliable objective quantitative markers of future motor impairment and neurodevelopmental outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P Bentzley
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, United States
| | - Patty Coker-Bolt
- Division of Occupation Therapy, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, United States.
| | - Noelle G Moreau
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - New Orleans, United States
| | - Kathryn Hope
- Division of Occupation Therapy, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, United States
| | | | - Truman Brown
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, United States
| | - Denise Mulvihill
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, United States
| | - Dorothea Jenkins
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, United States
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