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Egunlusi AO, Malan SF, Palchykov VA, Joubert J. Calcium Modulating Effect of Polycyclic Cages: A Suitable Therapeutic Approach Against Excitotoxic-induced Neurodegeneration. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:1277-1292. [PMID: 38275027 DOI: 10.2174/0113895575273868231128104121] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders pose a significant challenge to global healthcare systems due to their progressive nature and the resulting loss of neuronal cells and functions. Excitotoxicity, characterized by calcium overload, plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of these disorders. In this review article, we explore the involvement of calcium dysregulation in neurodegeneration and neurodegenerative disorders. A promising therapeutic strategy to counter calcium dysregulation involves the use of calcium modulators, particularly polycyclic cage compounds. These compounds, structurally related to amantadine and memantine, exhibit neuroprotective properties by attenuating calcium influx into neuronal cells. Notably, the pentacycloundecylamine NGP1-01, a cage-like structure, has shown efficacy in inhibiting both N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and voltage- gated calcium channels (VGCCs), making it a potential candidate for neuroprotection against excitotoxic-induced neurodegenerative disorders. The structure-activity relationship of polycyclic cage compounds is discussed in detail, highlighting their calcium-inhibitory activities. Various closed, open, and rearranged cage compounds have demonstrated inhibitory effects on calcium influx through NMDA receptors and VGCCs. Additionally, these compounds have exhibited neuroprotective properties, including free radical scavenging, attenuation of neurotoxicities, and reduction of neuroinflammation. Although the calcium modulatory activities of polycyclic cage compounds have been extensively studied, apart from amantadine and memantine, none have undergone clinical trials. Further in vitro and in vivo studies and subsequent clinical trials are required to establish the efficacy and safety of these compounds. The development of polycyclic cages as potential multifunctional agents for treating complex neurodegenerative diseases holds great promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji O Egunlusi
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Sarel F Malan
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Vitalii A Palchykov
- Research Institute of Chemistry and Geology, Oles Honchar Dnipropetrovsk National University, 72 Gagarina Av., Dnipro 49010, Ukraine
| | - Jacques Joubert
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa
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Rabeh N, Hajjar B, Maraka JO, Sammanasunathan AF, Khan M, Alkhaaldi SMI, Mansour S, Almheiri RT, Hamdan H, Abd-Elrahman KS. Targeting mGluR group III for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115733. [PMID: 37862967 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, is essential for neuronal function, and it acts on ionotropic or metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). A disturbance in glutamatergic signaling is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases. Developing disease-modifying treatments for neurodegenerative diseases targeting glutamate receptors is a promising avenue. The understudied group III mGluR 4, 6-8 are commonly found in the presynaptic membrane, and their activation inhibits glutamate release. Thus, targeted mGluRs therapies could aid in treating neurodegenerative diseases. This review describes group III mGluRs and their pharmacological ligands in the context of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's diseases. Attempts to evaluate the efficacy of these drugs in clinical trials are also discussed. Despite a growing list of group III mGluR-specific pharmacological ligands, research on the use of these drugs in neurodegenerative diseases is limited, except for Parkinson's disease. Future efforts should focus on delineating the contribution of group III mGluR to neurodegeneration and developing novel ligands with superior efficacy and a favorable side effect profile for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Rabeh
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates; Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, and Djavad Mowafaghian Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Baraa Hajjar
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jude O Maraka
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashwin F Sammanasunathan
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Khan
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saif M I Alkhaaldi
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Samy Mansour
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rashed T Almheiri
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamdan Hamdan
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates; Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center (HEIC), Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khaled S Abd-Elrahman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, and Djavad Mowafaghian Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt.
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Makeeva VS, Dyrkheeva NS, Lavrik OI, Zakian SM, Malakhova AA. Mutant-Huntingtin Molecular Pathways Elucidate New Targets for Drug Repurposing. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16798. [PMID: 38069121 PMCID: PMC10706709 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases known today is quite extensive. The complexities of their research and treatment lie not only in their diversity. Even many years of struggle and narrowly focused research on common pathologies such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other brain diseases have not brought cures for these illnesses. What can be said about orphan diseases? In particular, Huntington's disease (HD), despite affecting a smaller part of the human population, still attracts many researchers. This disorder is known to result from a mutation in the HTT gene, but having this information still does not simplify the task of drug development and studying the mechanisms of disease progression. Nonetheless, the data accumulated over the years and their analysis provide a good basis for further research. Here, we review studies devoted to understanding the mechanisms of HD. We analyze genes and molecular pathways involved in HD pathogenesis to describe the action of repurposed drugs and try to find new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladlena S. Makeeva
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.S.M.); (S.M.Z.); (A.A.M.)
| | - Nadezhda S. Dyrkheeva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Olga I. Lavrik
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Suren M. Zakian
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.S.M.); (S.M.Z.); (A.A.M.)
| | - Anastasia A. Malakhova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 10 Akad. Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (V.S.M.); (S.M.Z.); (A.A.M.)
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Irfan Z, Khanam S, Karmakar V, Firdous SM, El Khier BSIA, Khan I, Rehman MU, Khan A. Pathogenesis of Huntington's Disease: An Emphasis on Molecular Pathways and Prevention by Natural Remedies. Brain Sci 2022; 12:1389. [PMID: 36291322 PMCID: PMC9599635 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12101389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Huntington's disease is an inherited autosomal dominant trait neuro-degenerative disorder caused by changes (mutations) of a gene called huntingtin (htt) that is located on the short arm (p) of chromosome 4, CAG expansion mutation. It is characterized by unusual movements, cognitive and psychiatric disorders. OBJECTIVE This review was undertaken to apprehend biological pathways of Huntington's disease (HD) pathogenesis and its management by nature-derived products. Natural products can be lucrative for the management of HD as it shows protection against HD in pre-clinical trials. Advanced research is still required to assess the therapeutic effectiveness of the known organic products and their isolated compounds in HD experimental models. SUMMARY Degeneration of neurons in Huntington's disease is distinguished by progressive loss of motor coordination and muscle function. This is due to the expansion of CAG trinucleotide in the first exon of the htt gene responsible for neuronal death and neuronal network degeneration in the brain. It is believed that the factors such as molecular genetics, oxidative stress, excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroglia dysfunction, protein aggregation, and altered UPS leads to HD. The defensive effect of the natural product provides therapeutic efficacy against HD. Recent reports on natural drugs have enlightened the protective role against HD via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and neurofunctional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Irfan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Brainware University, Kolkata 700125, West Bengal, India
| | - Sofia Khanam
- Department of Pharmacology, Calcutta Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology & AHS, Howrah 711316, West Bengal, India
| | - Varnita Karmakar
- Department of Pharmacology, Eminent College of Pharmaceutical Technology, Barasat 700126, West Bengal, India
| | - Sayeed Mohammed Firdous
- Department of Pharmacology, Calcutta Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology & AHS, Howrah 711316, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Ilyas Khan
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science Al-Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muneeb U. Rehman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
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Kumar V, Singh C, Singh A. Zebrafish an experimental model of Huntington's disease: molecular aspects, therapeutic targets and current challenges. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:8181-8194. [PMID: 34665402 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06787-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Huntington disease (HD) is a lethal autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease whose exact causative mechanism is still unknown. It can transform from one generation to another generation. The CAG triplet expansion on polyglutamine (PolyQ) tract on Huntingtin protein primarily contributes in HD pathogenesis. Apart from this some another molecular mechanisms are also involved in HD pathology such as loss of Brain derived neurotrophic factor in medium spiny neurons, mitochondrial dysfunction, and alterations in synaptic plasticity are briefly discussed in this review. However, several chemicals (3-nitropropionic acid, and Quinolinic acid) and genetic (mHTT-ΔN17-97Q over expression) experimental models are used to explore the exact pathogenic mechanism and finding of new drug targets for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is widely used in in-vivo screening of several central nervous system (CNS) diseases such as HD, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and in memory deficits. Thus, this makes zebrafish as an excellent animal model for the development of new therapeutic strategies against various CNS disorders. We had reviewed several publications utilizing zebrafish and rodents to explore the disease pathology. Studies suggested that zebrafish genes and their human homologues have conserved functions. Zebrafish advantages and their characteristics over the other experimental animals make it an excellent tool for the disease study. This review explains the possible pathogenic mechanism of HD and also discusses about possible treatment therapies, apart from this we also discussed about possible potential therapeutic targets which will helps in designing of novel therapeutic approaches to overcome the disease progression. Diagrammatic depiction shows prevention of HD pathogenesis through attenuation of various biochemical alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, 142001, India
| | - Charan Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, 142001, India
- Affiliated to IK Gujral Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar, Punjab, 144603, India
| | - Arti Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, 142001, India.
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Disruption of zinc transporter ZnT3 transcriptional activity and synaptic vesicular zinc in the brain of Huntington's disease transgenic mouse. Cell Biosci 2020; 10:106. [PMID: 32944220 PMCID: PMC7488477 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00459-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disease that involves a complex combination of psychiatric, cognitive and motor impairments. Synaptic dysfunction has been implicated in HD pathogenesis. However, the mechanisms have not been clearly delineated. Synaptic vesicular zinc is closely linked to modulating synaptic transmission and maintaining cognitive ability. It is significant to assess zinc homeostasis for further revealing the pathogenesis of synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairment in HD. Results Histochemical staining by autometallography indicated that synaptic vesicular zinc was decreased in the hippocampus, cortex and striatum of N171-82Q HD transgenic mice. Analyses by immunohistochemistry, Western blot and RT-PCR found that the expression of zinc transporter 3 (ZnT3) required for transport of zinc into synaptic vesicles was obviously reduced in these three brain regions of the HD mice aged from 14 to 20 weeks and BHK cells expressing mutant huntingtin. Significantly, dual-luciferase reporter gene and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that transcription factor Sp1 could activate ZnT3 transcription via its binding to the GC boxes in ZnT3 promoter. Moreover, mutant huntingtin was found to inhibit the binding of Sp1 to the promoter of ZnT3 and down-regulate ZnT3 expression, and the decline in ZnT3 expression could be ameliorated through overexpression of Sp1. Conclusions This is first study to reveal a significant loss of synaptic vesicular zinc and a decline in ZnT3 transcriptional activity in the HD transgenic mice. Our work sheds a novel mechanistic insight into pathogenesis of HD that mutant huntingtin down-regulates expression of ZnT3 through inhibiting binding of Sp1 to the promoter of ZnT3 gene, causing disruption of synaptic vesicular zinc homeostasis. Disrupted vesicular zinc ultimately leads to early synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficits in HD. It is also suggested that maintaining normal synaptic vesicular zinc concentration is a potential therapeutic strategy for HD.
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7
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Durães F, Pinto M, Sousa E. Old Drugs as New Treatments for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2018; 11:ph11020044. [PMID: 29751602 PMCID: PMC6027455 DOI: 10.3390/ph11020044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are increasing in number, given that the general global population is becoming older. They manifest themselves through mechanisms that are not fully understood, in many cases, and impair memory, cognition and movement. Currently, no neurodegenerative disease is curable, and the treatments available only manage the symptoms or halt the progression of the disease. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new treatments for this kind of disease, since the World Health Organization has predicted that neurodegenerative diseases affecting motor function will become the second-most prevalent cause of death in the next 20 years. New therapies can come from three main sources: synthesis, natural products, and existing drugs. This last source is known as drug repurposing, which is the most advantageous, since the drug’s pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles are already established, and the investment put into this strategy is not as significant as for the classic development of new drugs. There have been several studies on the potential of old drugs for the most relevant neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Durães
- Laboratory of Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Center of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Avenida General Norton de Matos P, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - Madalena Pinto
- Laboratory of Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Center of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Avenida General Norton de Matos P, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - Emília Sousa
- Laboratory of Organic and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- CIIMAR, Interdisciplinary Center of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Avenida General Norton de Matos P, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal.
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Kunkanjanawan T, Carter R, Ahn KS, Yang J, Parnpai R, Chan AWS. Induced Pluripotent HD Monkey Stem Cells Derived Neural Cells for Drug Discovery. SLAS DISCOVERY 2016; 22:696-705. [PMID: 28027448 DOI: 10.1177/2472555216685044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by an expansion of CAG trinucleotide repeat (polyglutamine [polyQ]) in the huntingtin ( HTT) gene, which leads to the formation of mutant HTT (mHTT) protein aggregates. In the nervous system, an accumulation of mHTT protein results in glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, proteosome instability, and apoptosis. Although HD pathogenesis has been extensively studied, effective treatment of HD has yet to be developed. Therapeutic discovery research in HD has been reported using yeast, cells derived from transgenic animal models and HD patients, and induced pluripotent stem cells from patients. A transgenic nonhuman primate model of HD (HD monkey) shows neuropathological, behavioral, and molecular changes similar to an HD patient. In addition, neural progenitor cells (NPCs) derived from HD monkeys can be maintained in culture and differentiated to neural cells with distinct HD cellular phenotypes including the formation of mHTT aggregates, intranuclear inclusions, and increased susceptibility to oxidative stress. Here, we evaluated the potential application of HD monkey NPCs and neural cells as an in vitro model for HD drug discovery research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanut Kunkanjanawan
- 1 Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,2 Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.,3 Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Richard Carter
- 1 Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,2 Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kwan-Sung Ahn
- 1 Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,2 Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jinjing Yang
- 1 Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,2 Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rangsun Parnpai
- 3 Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Anthony W S Chan
- 1 Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,2 Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Skillings EA, Morton AJ. Delayed Onset and Reduced Cognitive Deficits through Pre-Conditioning with 3-Nitropropionic Acid is Dependent on Sex and CAG Repeat Length in the R6/2 Mouse Model of Huntington's Disease. J Huntingtons Dis 2016; 5:19-32. [PMID: 27031731 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-160189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Impairments in energy metabolism are implicated in Huntington's disease (HD) pathogenesis. Reduced levels of the mitochondrial enzyme succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), the main element of complex II, are observed post mortem in the brains of HD patients, and energy metabolism defects have been identified in both presymptomatic and symptomatic HD patients. OBJECTIVE Chemical preconditioning with 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP), an irreversible inhibitor of SDH, has been shown to increase tolerance against experimental hypoxia in both heart and brain. Here we studied the effect of chronic preconditioning in the R6/2 mouse model of HD using mice carrying CAG repeat lengths of either 250 or 400 repeats. Both are transgenic fragment models, with 250CAG mice having a more rapid disease progression than 400CAG mice. METHODS Low doses of 3-NP (24 mg/kg) were administered via the drinking water and the effect on phenotype progression and cognition function assessed. RESULTS After 3-NP treatment there were significant improvements in all aspects of the behavioural phenotype, apart from body weight, with timing and magnitude of improvements dependent on both CAG repeat length and sex. Specifically, a delay in the deterioration of general health (as shown by delayed onset of glycosuria and increased survival) was seen in both male and female 400CAG mice and in female 250CAG mice and was consistent with improved appearance of 3-NP treated R6/2 mice. Male 250CAG mice showed improvements but these were short term, and 3-NP treatment eventually had deleterious effects on their survival rate. When cognitive performance of 250CAG mice was assessed using a two-choice discrimination touchscreen task, we found that female mice showed significant improvements. DISCUSSION Together, our results support the idea that energy metabolism contributes to the pathogenesis of HD, and suggest that improving energy deficits might be a therapeutically useful target.
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Majláth Z, Török N, Toldi J, Vécsei L. Memantine and Kynurenic Acid: Current Neuropharmacological Aspects. Curr Neuropharmacol 2016; 14:200-9. [PMID: 26564141 PMCID: PMC4825950 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x14666151113123221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamatergic neurotransmission, of special importance in the human brain, is implicated in key brain functions such as synaptic plasticity and memory. The excessive activation of N-methyl- D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors may result in excitotoxic neuronal damage; this process has been implicated in the pathomechanism of different neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Memantine is an uncompetitive antagonist of NMDA receptors with a favorable pharmacokinetic profile, and is therefore clinically well tolerated. Memantine is approved for the treatment of AD, but may additionally be beneficial for other dementia forms and pain conditions. Kynurenic acid
(KYNA) is an endogenous antagonist of NMDA receptors which has been demonstrated under experimental conditions to be neuroprotective. The development of a well-tolerated NMDA antagonist may offer a novel therapeutic option for the treatment of neurodegenerative disease and pain syndromes. KYNA may be a valuable candidate for future drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, Semmelweis u. 6. H-6725 Szeged, Hungary.
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11
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Mikami Y, Kakizawa S, Yamazawa T. Essential Roles of Natural Products and Gaseous Mediators on Neuronal Cell Death or Survival. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E1652. [PMID: 27690018 PMCID: PMC5085685 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although precise cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration still remain enigmatic, key factors associated with degenerative disorders, such as glutamate toxicity and oxidative stress, have been recently identified. Accordingly, there has been growing interest in examining the effects of exogenous and endogenous molecules on neuroprotection and neurodegeneration. In this paper, we review recent studies on neuroprotective and/or neurodegenerative effects of natural products, such as caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, and gaseous mediators, including hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide. Furthermore, possible molecular mechanisms of these molecules in relation to glutamate signals are discussed. Insight into the pathophysiological role of these molecules will make progress in our understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases, and is expected to lead to potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Mikami
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Toho University, 5-21-16 Omori-Nishi, Ota-ku, Tokyo 143-8540, Japan.
| | - Sho Kakizawa
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, 46-29 Yoshida-Shimoadachi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
| | - Toshiko Yamazawa
- Department of Molecular Physiology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishishimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan.
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12
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Sorolla MA, Rodríguez-Colman MJ, Vall-Llaura N, Vived C, Fernández-Nogales M, Lucas JJ, Ferrer I, Cabiscol E. Impaired PLP-dependent metabolism in brain samples from Huntington disease patients and transgenic R6/1 mice. Metab Brain Dis 2016; 31:579-86. [PMID: 26666246 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-015-9777-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been described as important to Huntington disease (HD) progression. In a previous HD study, we identified several carbonylated proteins, including pyridoxal kinase and antiquitin, both of which are involved in the metabolism of pyridoxal 5´-phosphate (PLP), the active form of vitamin B6. In the present study, pyridoxal kinase levels were quantified and showed to be decreased both in HD patients and a R6/1 mouse model, compared to control samples. A metabolomic analysis was used to analyze metabolites in brain samples of HD patients and R6/1 mice, compared to control samples using mass spectrometry. This technique allowed detection of increased concentrations of pyridoxal, the substrate of pyridoxal kinase. In addition, PLP, the product of the reaction, was decreased in striatum from R6/1 mice. Furthermore, glutamate and cystathionine, both substrates of PLP-dependent enzymes were increased in HD. This reinforces the hypothesis that PLP synthesis is impaired, and could explain some alterations observed in the disease. Together, these results identify PLP as a potential therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Alba Sorolla
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, Universitat de Lleida, IRBLleida, Av. Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - María José Rodríguez-Colman
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, Universitat de Lleida, IRBLleida, Av. Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Núria Vall-Llaura
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, Universitat de Lleida, IRBLleida, Av. Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Celia Vived
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, Universitat de Lleida, IRBLleida, Av. Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Marta Fernández-Nogales
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa", Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José J Lucas
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa", Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Institut de Neuropatologia, Servei Anatomia Patològica, IDIBELL-Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa Cabiscol
- Departament de Ciències Mèdiques Bàsiques, Universitat de Lleida, IRBLleida, Av. Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Catalonia, Spain
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Mason SL, Barker RA. Novel targets for Huntington's disease: future prospects. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis 2016; 6:25-36. [PMID: 30050366 PMCID: PMC6053088 DOI: 10.2147/dnnd.s83808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an incurable, inherited, progressive, neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by a triad of motor, cognitive, and psychiatric problems. Despite the noticeable increase in therapeutic trials in HD in the last 20 years, there have, to date, been very few significant advances. The main hope for new and emerging therapeutics for HD is to develop a neuroprotective compound capable of slowing down or even stopping the progression of the disease and ultimately prevent the subtle early signs from developing into manifest disease. Recently, there has been a noticeable shift away from symptomatic therapies in favor of more mechanistic-based interventions, a change driven by a better understanding of the pathogenesis of this disorder. In this review, we discuss the status of, and supporting evidence for, potential novel treatments of HD that are currently under development or have reached the level of early Phase I/II clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roger A Barker
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, .,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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14
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Kumar P, Kumar D, Jha SK, Jha NK, Ambasta RK. Ion Channels in Neurological Disorders. ION CHANNELS AS THERAPEUTIC TARGETS, PART A 2016; 103:97-136. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2015.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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15
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An Overview of Potential Targets for Treating Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Huntington's Disease. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:198612. [PMID: 26295035 PMCID: PMC4532815 DOI: 10.1155/2015/198612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases affect millions of people worldwide. Progressive damage or loss of neurons, neurodegeneration, has severe consequences on the mental and physical health of a patient. Despite all efforts by scientific community, there is currently no cure or manner to slow degeneration progression. We review some treatments that attempt to prevent the progress of some of major neurodegenerative diseases: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Huntington's disease.
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16
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Fukushima K, Tabata Y, Imaizumi Y, Kohmura N, Sugawara M, Sawada K, Yamazaki K, Ito M. Characterization of Human Hippocampal Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells and Their Application to Physiologically Relevant Assays for Multiple Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 19:1174-84. [PMID: 24980597 DOI: 10.1177/1087057114541149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The hippocampus is an important brain region that is involved in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer disease, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. Ionotropic glutamate receptors-namely,N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors (NMDARs), α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate (AMPA) receptors (AMPARs), and kainic acid (KA) receptors (KARs)-are well known to be involved in these diseases by mediating long-term potentiation, excitotoxicity, or both. To predict the therapeutic efficacy and neuronal toxicity of drug candidates acting on these receptors, physiologically relevant systems for assaying brain region-specific human neural cells are necessary. Here, we characterized the functional differentiation of human fetal hippocampus-derived neural stem/progenitor cells-namely, HIP-009 cells. Calcium rise assay demonstrated that, after a 4-week differentiation, the cells responded to NMDA (EC50= 7.5 ± 0.4 µM; n= 4), AMPA (EC50= 2.5 ± 0.1 µM; n= 3), or KA (EC50= 33.5 ± 1.1 µM; n= 3) in a concentration-dependent manner. An AMPA-evoked calcium rise was observed in the absence of the desensitization inhibitor cyclothiazide. In addition, the calcium rise induced by these agonists was inhibited by antagonists for each receptor-namely, MK-801 for NMDA stimulation (IC50= 0.6 ± 0.1 µM; n= 4) and NBQX for AMPA and KA stimulation (IC50= 0.7 ± 0.1 and 0.7 ± 0.03 µM, respectively; n= 3). The gene expression profile of differentiated HIP-009 cells was distinct from that of undifferentiated cells and closely resembled that of the human adult hippocampus. Our results show that HIP-009 cells are a unique tool for obtaining human hippocampal neural cells and are applicable to systems for assay of ionotropic glutamate receptors as a physiologically relevant in vitro model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyuki Fukushima
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoshikuni Tabata
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoichi Imaizumi
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Naohiro Kohmura
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Michiko Sugawara
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kohei Sawada
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kazuto Yamazaki
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masashi Ito
- Eisai Product Creation Systems, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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17
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Glasgow NG, Johnson JW. Whole-cell patch-clamp analysis of recombinant NMDA receptor pharmacology using brief glutamate applications. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1183:23-41. [PMID: 25023300 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1096-0_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are ionotropic glutamate receptors that are essential for synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. Dysfunction of NMDARs has been implicated in many nervous system disorders; therefore, pharmacological modulation of NMDAR activity has great therapeutic potential. However, given the broad physiological importance of NMDARs, modulating their activity often has detrimental side effects precluding pharmaceutical use of many NMDAR modulators. One approach to possibly improve the therapeutic potential of NMDAR modulators is to identify compounds that modulate subsets of NMDARs. An obvious target for modulating NMDAR subsets is the many NMDAR subtypes produced through different combinations of NMDAR subunits. With seven identified genes that encode NMDAR subunits, there are many neuronal NMDAR subtypes with distinct properties and potentially differential pharmacological sensitivities. Study of NMDAR subtype-specific pharmacology is complicated in neurons, however, because most neurons express at least three NMDAR subtypes. Thus, use of an approach that permits study in isolation of a single receptor subtype is preferred. Additionally, the effects of drugs on agonist-activated responses typically depend on duration of agonist exposure. To evaluate drug effects on synaptic transmission, an approach should be used that allows for activation of receptor responses as brief as those observed during synaptic transmission, both in the absence and presence of drug. To address these issues, we designed a fast perfusion system capable of (1) delivering brief (~5 ms) and consistent applications of glutamate to recombinant NMDARs of known subunit composition, and (2) easily and quickly (~5 s) changing between glutamate applications in the absence and presence of drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan G Glasgow
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, A210 Langley Hall, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
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18
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Novel treatment with neuroprotective and antiviral properties against a neuroinvasive human respiratory virus. J Virol 2013; 88:1548-63. [PMID: 24227863 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02972-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) are recognized respiratory pathogens with neuroinvasive and neurotropic properties in mice and humans. HCoV strain OC43 (HCoV-OC43) can infect and persist in human neural cells and activate neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative mechanisms, suggesting that it could be involved in neurological disease of unknown etiology in humans. Moreover, we have shown that HCoV-OC43 is neurovirulent in susceptible mice, causing encephalitis, and that a viral mutant with a single point mutation in the viral surface spike (S) protein induces a paralytic disease that involves glutamate excitotoxicity in susceptible mice. Herein, we show that glutamate recycling via the glial transporter 1 protein transporter and glutamine synthetase are central to the dysregulation of glutamate homeostasis and development of motor dysfunctions and paralytic disease in HCoV-OC43-infected mice. Moreover, memantine, an N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist widely used in the treatment of neurological diseases in humans, improved clinical scores related to paralytic disease and motor disabilities by partially restoring the physiological neurofilament phosphorylation state in virus-infected mice. Interestingly, memantine attenuated mortality rates and body weight loss and reduced HCoV-OC43 replication in the central nervous system in a dose-dependent manner. This novel action of memantine on viral replication strongly suggests that it could be used as an antiviral agent to directly limit viral replication while improving neurological symptoms in various neurological diseases with a viral involvement. Mutations in the surface spike (S) protein of human respiratory coronavirus OC43 appear after persistent infection of human cells of the central nervous system, a possible viral adaptation to this environment. Furthermore, a single amino acid change in the viral S protein modulated virus-induced neuropathology in mice from an encephalitis to a neuropathology characterized by flaccid paralysis, which involves glutamate excitotoxicity. We now show that memantine, a drug that is used for alleviating symptoms associated with neuropathology, such as Alzheimer's disease, can partially restore the physiological state of infected mice by limiting both neurodegeneration and viral replication. This suggests that memantine could be used as an antiviral agent while improving neurological symptoms in various neurological diseases with a viral involvement.
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19
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Correlations between behavioural and oxidative parameters in a rat quinolinic acid model of Huntington's disease: protective effect of melatonin. Eur J Pharmacol 2013; 701:65-72. [PMID: 23340221 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2012] [Revised: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to examine the correlations between behavioural and oxidative parameters in a quinolinic acid model of Huntington's disease in rats. The protective effect of melatonin against the excitotoxicity induced by quinolinic acid was investigated. Rats were pre-treated with melatonin (5 or 20mg/kg) before injection of quinolinic acid (240nmol/site; 1μl) into their right corpora striata. The locomotor and exploratory activities as well as the circling behaviour were recorded. The elevated body swing test was also performed. After behavioural experiments, biochemical determinations were carried out. Melatonin partially protected against the increase of circling behaviour caused by quinolinic acid injection. No alteration was found in the number of crossings and rearings of animals treated with melatonin and/or quinolinic acid. Melatonin decreased the percentage of contralateral biased swings induced by quinolinic acid. Melatonin protected against the increase in reactive species and protein carbonyl levels as well as the inhibition of superoxide dismutase activity resulting from quinolinic acid injection. Melatonin was partially effective against the inhibition of striatal catalase activity and a decrease of non-protein thiol levels induced by quinolinic acid. Melatonin was not effective against the inhibition of Na(+), K(+) ATPase activity caused by quinolinic acid injection. There were significant correlations between circling behaviour and oxidative parameters. The antioxidant property of melatonin is involved, at least in part, in its neuroprotective effect. The results reinforce the idea that melatonin could be useful in overwhelming neurotoxicity caused by quinolinic acid, a rat model of Huntington's disease.
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Kutzing MK, Luo V, Firestein BL. Protection from glutamate-induced excitotoxicity by memantine. Ann Biomed Eng 2011; 40:1170-81. [PMID: 22203191 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-011-0494-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates whether the uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor antagonist, memantine, is able to protect dissociated cortical neurons from glutamate-induced excitotoxicity (GIE). Treatment with glutamate resulted in a significant loss of synchronization of neuronal activity as well as a significant increase in the duration of synchronized bursting events (SBEs). By administering memantine at the same time as glutamate, we were able to completely prevent these changes to the neuronal activity. Pretreatment with memantine was somewhat effective in preventing changes to the culture synchronization but was unable to fully protect the synchronization of electrical activity between neurons that showed high levels of synchronization prior to injury. Additionally, memantine pretreatment was unable to prevent the increase in the duration of SBEs caused by GIE. Thus, the timing of memantine treatment is important for conferring neuroprotection against glutamate-induced neurotoxicity. Finally, we found that GIE leads to a significant increase in the burst duration. Our data suggest that this may be due to an alteration in the inhibitory function of the neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda K Kutzing
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8082, USA
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