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Wang XX, Ji X, Lin J, Wong IN, Lo HH, Wang J, Qu L, Wong VKW, Chung SK, Law BYK. GPCR-mediated natural products and compounds: Potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of neurological diseases. Pharmacol Res 2024; 208:107395. [PMID: 39241934 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 09/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), widely expressed in the human central nervous system (CNS), perform numerous physiological functions and play a significant role in the pathogenesis of diseases. Consequently, identifying key therapeutic GPCRs targets for CNS-related diseases is garnering immense interest in research labs and pharmaceutical companies. However, using GPCRs drugs for treating neurodegenerative diseases has limitations, including side effects and uncertain effective time frame. Recognizing the rich history of herbal treatments for neurological disorders like stroke, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD), modern pharmacological research is now focusing on the understanding of the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs and compounds in modulating GPCRs and treatment of neurodegenerative conditions. This paper will offer a comprehensive, critical review of how certain natural products and compounds target GPCRs to treat neurological diseases. Conducting an in-depth study of herbal remedies and their efficacies against CNS-related disorders through GPCRs targeting will augment our strategies for treating neurological disorders. This will not only broaden our understanding of effective therapeutic methodologies but also identify the root causes of altered GPCRs signaling in the context of pathophysiological mechanisms in neurological diseases. Moreover, it would be informative for the creation of safer and more effective GPCR-mediated drugs, thereby establishing a foundation for future treatment of various neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Xia Wang
- Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR China; Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiang Ji
- Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Endocrinology, Luzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Io Nam Wong
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR China
| | - Hang Hong Lo
- Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sichuan Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sichuan Cancer Hospital & Institute, Sichuan Cancer Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Liqun Qu
- Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR China
| | - Vincent Kam Wai Wong
- Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR China
| | - Sookja Kim Chung
- Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR China; Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR China.
| | - Betty Yuen Kwan Law
- Neher's Biophysics Laboratory for Innovative Drug Discovery, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao SAR China.
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Vázquez-Cuevas FG, Reyna-Jeldes M, Velázquez-Miranda E, Coddou C. Transactivation of receptor tyrosine kinases by purinergic P2Y and adenosine receptors. Purinergic Signal 2023; 19:613-621. [PMID: 36529846 PMCID: PMC10754767 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-022-09913-y] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Transactivation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK) is a crosstalk mechanism exhibited by G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) to activate signaling pathways classically associated with growth factors. The discovery of RTK transactivation was a breakthrough in signal transduction that contributed to developing current concepts in intracellular signaling. RTK transactivation links GPCR signaling to important cellular processes, such as cell proliferation and differentiation, and explains the functional diversity of these receptors. Purinergic (P2Y and adenosine) receptors belong to class A of GPCR; in the present work, we systematically review the experimental evidence showing that purinergic receptors have the ability to transactivate RTK in multiple tissues and physiopathological conditions resulting in the modulation of cellular physiology. Of particular relevance, the crosstalk between purinergic receptors and epidermal growth factor receptor is a redundant pathway that participates in multiple pathophysiological processes. Specific and detailed knowledge of purinergic receptor-regulated pathways advances our understanding of the complexity of GPCR signal transduction and opens the way for pharmacologic intervention in the pathological context.
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Affiliation(s)
- F G Vázquez-Cuevas
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular Y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla # 3001, Juriquilla, Querétaro, 76230, México.
| | - M Reyna-Jeldes
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, 1781421, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus for the Study of Pain (MiNuSPain), Santiago, 8331150, Chile
- Núcleo Para El Estudio del Cáncer a Nivel Básico, Aplicado Y Clínico, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo , 1781421, Chile
| | - E Velázquez-Miranda
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular Y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla # 3001, Juriquilla, Querétaro, 76230, México
| | - C Coddou
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, 1781421, Chile.
- Millennium Nucleus for the Study of Pain (MiNuSPain), Santiago, 8331150, Chile.
- Núcleo Para El Estudio del Cáncer a Nivel Básico, Aplicado Y Clínico, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo , 1781421, Chile.
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3
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Nieto CT, Manchado A, Belda L, Diez D, Garrido NM. 2-Phenethylamines in Medicinal Chemistry: A Review. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 28:molecules28020855. [PMID: 36677913 PMCID: PMC9864394 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
A concise review covering updated presence and role of 2-phenethylamines in medicinal chemistry is presented. Open-chain, flexible alicyclic amine derivatives of this motif are enumerated in key therapeutic targets, listing medicinal chemistry hits and appealing screening compounds. Latest reports in discovering new bioactive 2-phenethylamines by research groups are covered too.
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4
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Miranda-Lourenço C, Ribeiro-Rodrigues L, Fonseca-Gomes J, Tanqueiro SR, Belo RF, Ferreira CB, Rei N, Ferreira-Manso M, de Almeida-Borlido C, Costa-Coelho T, Freitas CF, Zavalko S, Mouro FM, Sebastião AM, Xapelli S, Rodrigues TM, Diógenes MJ. Challenges of BDNF-based therapies: From common to rare diseases. Pharmacol Res 2020; 162:105281. [PMID: 33161136 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins are a well-known family of neurotrophic factors that play an important role both in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they modulate neuronal survival, development, function and plasticity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) possesses diverse biological functions which are mediated by the activation of two main classes of receptors, the tropomyosin-related kinase (Trk) B and the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). The therapeutic potential of BDNF has drawn attention since dysregulation of its signalling cascades has been suggested to underlie the pathogenesis of both common and rare diseases. Multiple strategies targeting this neurotrophin have been tested; most have found obstacles that ultimately hampered their effectiveness. This review focuses on the involvement of BDNF and its receptors in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Rett Syndrome (RTT). We describe the known mechanisms leading to the impairment of BDNF/TrkB signalling in these disorders. Such mechanistic insight highlights how BDNF signalling compromise can take various shapes, nearly disease-specific. Therefore, BDNF-based therapeutic strategies must be specifically tailored and are more likely to succeed if a combination of resources is employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Miranda-Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leonor Ribeiro-Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Fonseca-Gomes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara R Tanqueiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita F Belo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina B Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nádia Rei
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Ferreira-Manso
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carolina de Almeida-Borlido
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago Costa-Coelho
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Céline Felicidade Freitas
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Svitlana Zavalko
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago M Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Mittlere Strasse 91, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maria J Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
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Allen SP, Hall B, Castelli LM, Francis L, Woof R, Siskos AP, Kouloura E, Gray E, Thompson AG, Talbot K, Higginbottom A, Myszczynska M, Allen CF, Stopford MJ, Hemingway J, Bauer CS, Webster CP, De Vos KJ, Turner MR, Keun HC, Hautbergue GM, Ferraiuolo L, Shaw PJ. Astrocyte adenosine deaminase loss increases motor neuron toxicity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Brain 2020; 142:586-605. [PMID: 30698736 PMCID: PMC6391613 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awy353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As clinical evidence supports a negative impact of dysfunctional energy metabolism on the disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, it is vital to understand how the energy metabolic pathways are altered and whether they can be restored to slow disease progression. Possible approaches include increasing or rerouting catabolism of alternative fuel sources to supplement the glycolytic and mitochondrial pathways such as glycogen, ketone bodies and nucleosides. To analyse the basis of the catabolic defect in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis we used a novel phenotypic metabolic array. We profiled fibroblasts and induced neuronal progenitor-derived human induced astrocytes from C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients compared to normal controls, measuring the rates of production of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotides from 91 potential energy substrates. This approach shows for the first time that C9orf72 human induced astrocytes and fibroblasts have an adenosine to inosine deamination defect caused by reduction of adenosine deaminase, which is also observed in induced astrocytes from sporadic patients. Patient-derived induced astrocyte lines were more susceptible to adenosine-induced toxicity, which could be mimicked by inhibiting adenosine deaminase in control lines. Furthermore, adenosine deaminase inhibition in control induced astrocytes led to increased motor neuron toxicity in co-cultures, similar to the levels observed with patient derived induced astrocytes. Bypassing metabolically the adenosine deaminase defect by inosine supplementation was beneficial bioenergetically in vitro, increasing glycolytic energy output and leading to an increase in motor neuron survival in co-cultures with induced astrocytes. Inosine supplementation, in combination with modulation of the level of adenosine deaminase may represent a beneficial therapeutic approach to evaluate in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott P Allen
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
- Correspondence to: Dr Scott Allen Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK E-mail:
| | - Benjamin Hall
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Lydia M Castelli
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Laura Francis
- The Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Ryan Woof
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Alexandros P Siskos
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Eirini Kouloura
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Gray
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, John Radcliffe Hospital, West Wing Level 6, Oxford, UK
| | - Alexander G Thompson
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, John Radcliffe Hospital, West Wing Level 6, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Talbot
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, John Radcliffe Hospital, West Wing Level 6, Oxford, UK
| | - Adrian Higginbottom
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Monika Myszczynska
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Chloe F Allen
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Matthew J Stopford
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jordan Hemingway
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Claudia S Bauer
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Christopher P Webster
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Kurt J De Vos
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Martin R Turner
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, John Radcliffe Hospital, West Wing Level 6, Oxford, UK
| | - Hector C Keun
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Guillaume M Hautbergue
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Laura Ferraiuolo
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385 Glossop Road, Sheffield, UK
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6
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Gill WD, Shelton HW, Burgess KC, Brown RW. Effects of an adenosine A 2A agonist on the rewarding associative properties of nicotine and neural plasticity in a rodent model of schizophrenia. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:137-144. [PMID: 31694445 PMCID: PMC9199013 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119885917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adenosine A2a receptors form a mutually inhibitory heteromeric complex with dopamine D2 receptors such that each receptor exhibits lower sensitivity to its agonist after the opposing receptor agonist is bound. This study analyzed the effects of CGS 21680, an adenosine A2A agonist, on nicotine conditioned place preference (CPP) in adolescence using a rodent model of schizophrenia (SZ). METHODS Rats were treated from postnatal day (P) 1 to P21 with saline or the dopamine D2/D3 agonist quinpirole (NQ treatment) and raised to P41. After an initial preference test, rats were conditioned with saline or nicotine (0.6 mg/kg base) from P43 to P51. CGS 21680 (0.03 or 0.09 mg/kg) was given 15 minutes before nicotine was administered. The post-conditioning test was administered on P52. On P53, the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) was analyzed for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell-lined neurotrophic factor (GDNF). RESULTS Results revealed that NQ treatment enhanced nicotine CPP, and both doses of CGS 21680 alleviated this enhancement. Nicotine also resulted in a CPP in controls, which was alleviated by both doses of CGS 21680. BDNF closely followed the behavioral results: CGS 21680 alleviated the enhancement in NAcc BDNF in NQ-treated animals, and eliminated the increase in NAcc BDNF produced by nicotine in controls. NQ-treated animals conditioned to nicotine resulted in an increase of NAcc GDNF, but this was eliminated by CGS 21680. Both BDNF and GDNF correlated with CPP performance. CONCLUSIONS Results revealed that an adenosine A2A agonist decreased the rewarding aspects of nicotine and its accompanying neural plasticity changes in a model of SZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Drew Gill
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Heath W Shelton
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Katherine C Burgess
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Russell W Brown
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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Pradhan J, Noakes PG, Bellingham MC. The Role of Altered BDNF/TrkB Signaling in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:368. [PMID: 31456666 PMCID: PMC6700252 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is well recognized for its neuroprotective functions, via activation of its high affinity receptor, tropomysin related kinase B (TrkB). In addition, BDNF/TrkB neuroprotective functions can also be elicited indirectly via activation of adenosine 2A receptors (A2aRs), which in turn transactivates TrkB. Evidence suggests that alterations in BDNF/TrkB, including TrkB transactivation by A2aRs, can occur in several neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Although enhancing BDNF has been a major goal for protection of dying motor neurons (MNs), this has not been successful. Indeed, there is emerging in vitro and in vivo evidence suggesting that an upregulation of BDNF/TrkB can cause detrimental effects on MNs, making them more vulnerable to pathophysiological insults. For example, in ALS, early synaptic hyper-excitability of MNs is thought to enhance BDNF-mediated signaling, thereby causing glutamate excitotoxicity, and ultimately MN death. Moreover, direct inhibition of TrkB and A2aRs has been shown to protect MNs from these pathophysiological insults, suggesting that modulation of BDNF/TrkB and/or A2aRs receptors may be important in early disease pathogenesis in ALS. This review highlights the relevance of pathophysiological actions of BDNF/TrkB under certain circumstances, so that manipulation of BDNF/TrkB and A2aRs may give rise to alternate neuroprotective therapeutic strategies in the treatment of neural diseases such as ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonu Pradhan
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter G Noakes
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark C Bellingham
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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8
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Di Liberto V, Mudò G, Belluardo N. Crosstalk between receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) in the brain: Focus on heteroreceptor complexes and related functional neurotrophic effects. Neuropharmacology 2018; 152:67-77. [PMID: 30445101 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal events are regulated by the integration of several complex signaling networks in which G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are considered key players of an intense bidirectional cross-communication in the cell, generating signaling mechanisms that, at the same time, connect and diversify the traditional signal transduction pathways activated by the single receptor. For this receptor-receptor crosstalk, the two classes of receptors form heteroreceptor complexes resulting in RTKs transactivation and in growth-promoting signals. In this review, we describe heteroreceptor complexes between GPCR and RTKs in the central nervous system (CNS) and their functional effects in controlling a variety of neuronal effects, ranging from development, proliferation, differentiation and migration, to survival, repair, synaptic transmission and plasticity. In this interaction, RTKs can also recruit components of the G protein signaling cascade, creating a bidirectional intricate interplay that provides complex control over multiple cellular events. These heteroreceptor complexes, by the integration of different signals, have recently attracted a growing interest as novel molecular target for depressive disorders. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Receptor heteromers and their allosteric receptor-receptor interactions'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Di Liberto
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Mudò
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Natale Belluardo
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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9
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Sebastião AM, Rei N, Ribeiro JA. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Adenosine Receptors. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:267. [PMID: 29713276 PMCID: PMC5911503 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present review we discuss the potential involvement of adenosinergic signaling, in particular the role of adenosine receptors, in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Though the literature on this topic is not abundant, the information so far available on adenosine receptors in animal models of ALS highlights the interest to continue to explore the role of these receptors in this neurodegenerative disease. Indeed, all motor neurons affected in ALS are responsive to adenosine receptor ligands but interestingly, there are alterations in pre-symptomatic or early symptomatic stages that mirror those in advanced disease stages. Information starts to emerge pointing toward a beneficial role of A2A receptors (A2AR), most probably at early disease states, and a detrimental role of caffeine, in clear contrast with what occurs in other neurodegenerative diseases. However, some evidence also exists on a beneficial action of A2AR antagonists. It may happen that there are time windows where A2AR prove beneficial and others where their blockade is required. Furthermore, the same changes may not occur simultaneously at the different synapses. In line with this, it is not fully understood if ALS is a dying back disease or if it propagates in a centrifugal way. It thus seems crucial to understand how motor neuron dysfunction occurs, how adenosine receptors are involved in those dysfunctions and whether the early changes in purinergic signaling are compensatory or triggers for the disease. Getting this information is crucial before starting the design of purinergic based strategies to halt or delay disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Nádia Rei
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joaquim A Ribeiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Lai CY, Liu YJ, Lai HL, Chen HM, Kuo HC, Liao YP, Chern Y. The D2 Dopamine Receptor Interferes With the Protective Effect of the A 2A Adenosine Receptor on TDP-43 Mislocalization in Experimental Models of Motor Neuron Degeneration. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:187. [PMID: 29615863 PMCID: PMC5869924 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The A2A adenosine receptor (A2AR) and D2 dopamine receptor (D2R) are two G-protein-coupled receptors that can form dimers and negatively regulate their partners. TAR DNA-binding protein (TDP-43) is a nuclear protein that has been implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Mislocalization of TDP-43 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm is an early step of TDP-43 proteinopathy. Our previous studies indicated that A2AR is a potential drug target for ALS because treatment with an A2AR agonist (JMF1907; a T1-11 analog) prevents reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced TDP-43 mislocalization in a motor neuron cell line (NSC34) and delays motor impairment in a TDP-43 transgenic ALS mouse model. Here, we set out to assess whether activation of D2R interferes with the beneficial effects of an A2AR agonist on motor neurons. We first demonstrated that A2AR and D2R are both located in motor neurons of mouse and human spinal cords and human iPSC-derived motor neurons. Expression of A2AR and D2R in NSC34 cells led to dimer formation without affecting the binding affinity of A2AR toward T1-11. Importantly, activation of D2R reduced T1-11-mediated activation of cAMP/PKA signaling and subsequent inhibition of TDP-43 mislocalization in NSC34 cells. Treatment with quinpirole (a D2 agonist) blunted the rescuing effect of T1-11 on TDP-43 mislocalization and impaired grip strength in a mouse model of ALS. Our findings suggest that D2R activation may limit the beneficial responses of an A2AR agonist in motor neurons and may have an important role in ALS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-You Lai
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ju Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Lin Lai
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Mei Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Chi Kuo
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ping Liao
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yijuang Chern
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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11
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Cunha RA. How does adenosine control neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration? J Neurochem 2016; 139:1019-1055. [PMID: 27365148 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 320] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The adenosine modulation system mostly operates through inhibitory A1 (A1 R) and facilitatory A2A receptors (A2A R) in the brain. The activity-dependent release of adenosine acts as a brake of excitatory transmission through A1 R, which are enriched in glutamatergic terminals. Adenosine sharpens salience of information encoding in neuronal circuits: high-frequency stimulation triggers ATP release in the 'activated' synapse, which is locally converted by ecto-nucleotidases into adenosine to selectively activate A2A R; A2A R switch off A1 R and CB1 receptors, bolster glutamate release and NMDA receptors to assist increasing synaptic plasticity in the 'activated' synapse; the parallel engagement of the astrocytic syncytium releases adenosine further inhibiting neighboring synapses, thus sharpening the encoded plastic change. Brain insults trigger a large outflow of adenosine and ATP, as a danger signal. A1 R are a hurdle for damage initiation, but they desensitize upon prolonged activation. However, if the insult is near-threshold and/or of short-duration, A1 R trigger preconditioning, which may limit the spread of damage. Brain insults also up-regulate A2A R, probably to bolster adaptive changes, but this heightens brain damage since A2A R blockade affords neuroprotection in models of epilepsy, depression, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson's disease. This initially involves a control of synaptotoxicity by neuronal A2A R, whereas astrocytic and microglia A2A R might control the spread of damage. The A2A R signaling mechanisms are largely unknown since A2A R are pleiotropic, coupling to different G proteins and non-canonical pathways to control the viability of glutamatergic synapses, neuroinflammation, mitochondria function, and cytoskeleton dynamics. Thus, simultaneously bolstering A1 R preconditioning and preventing excessive A2A R function might afford maximal neuroprotection. The main physiological role of the adenosine modulation system is to sharp the salience of information encoding through a combined action of adenosine A2A receptors (A2A R) in the synapse undergoing an alteration of synaptic efficiency with an increased inhibitory action of A1 R in all surrounding synapses. Brain insults trigger an up-regulation of A2A R in an attempt to bolster adaptive plasticity together with adenosine release and A1 R desensitization; this favors synaptotocity (increased A2A R) and decreases the hurdle to undergo degeneration (decreased A1 R). Maximal neuroprotection is expected to result from a combined A2A R blockade and increased A1 R activation. This article is part of a mini review series: "Synaptic Function and Dysfunction in Brain Diseases".
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo A Cunha
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,FMUC-Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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12
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Dysregulation of TrkB phosphorylation and proBDNF protein in adenylyl cyclase 1 and 8 knockout mice in a model of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Alcohol 2016; 51:25-35. [PMID: 26992697 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 11/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mediates neuron growth and is regulated by adenylyl cyclases (ACs). Mice lacking AC1/8 (DKO) have a basal reduction in the dendritic complexity of medium spiny neurons in the caudate putamen and demonstrate increased neurotoxicity in the striatum following acute neonatal ethanol exposure compared to wild type (WT) controls, suggesting a compromise in BDNF regulation under varying conditions. Although neonatal ethanol exposure can negatively impact BDNF expression, little is known about the effect on BDNF receptor activation and its downstream signaling, including Akt activation, an established neuroprotective pathway. Therefore, here we determined the effects of AC1/8 deletion and neonatal ethanol administration on BDNF and proBDNF protein expression, and activation of tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), Akt, ERK1/2, and PLCγ. WT and DKO mice were treated with a single dose of 2.5 g/kg ethanol or saline at postnatal days 5-7 to model late-gestational alcohol exposure. Striatal and cortical tissues were analyzed using a BDNF enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or immunoblotting for proBDNF, phosphorylated and total TrkB, Akt, ERK1/2, and PLCɣ1. Neither postnatal ethanol exposure nor AC1/8 deletion affected total BDNF protein expression at any time point in either region examined. Neonatal ethanol increased the expression of proBDNF protein in the striatum of WT mice 6, 24, and 48 h after exposure, with DKO mice demonstrating a reduction in proBDNF expression 6 h after exposure. Six and 24 h after ethanol administration, phosphorylation of full-length TrkB in the striatum was significantly reduced in WT mice, but was significantly increased in DKO mice only at 24 h. Interestingly, 48 h after ethanol, both WT and DKO mice demonstrated a reduction in phosphorylated full-length TrkB. In addition, Akt and PLCɣ1 phosphorylation was also decreased in ethanol-treated DKO mice 48 h after injection. These data demonstrate dysregulation of a potential survival pathway in the AC1/8 knockout mice following early-life ethanol exposure.
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13
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Purine nucleosides in neuroregeneration and neuroprotection. Neuropharmacology 2015; 104:226-42. [PMID: 26577017 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In the present review, we stress the importance of the purine nucleosides, adenosine and guanosine, in protecting the nervous system, both centrally and peripherally, via activation of their receptors and intracellular signalling mechanisms. A most novel part of the review focus on the mechanisms of neuronal regeneration that are targeted by nucleosides, including a recently identified action of adenosine on axonal growth and microtubule dynamics. Discussion on the role of the purine nucleosides transversally with the most established neurotrophic factors, e.g. brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), is also focused considering the intimate relationship between some adenosine receptors, as is the case of the A2A receptors, and receptors for neurotrophins. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.
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Assaife-Lopes N, Sousa VC, Pereira DB, Ribeiro JA, Sebastião AM. Regulation of TrkB receptor translocation to lipid rafts by adenosine A(2A) receptors and its functional implications for BDNF-induced regulation of synaptic plasticity. Purinergic Signal 2013. [PMID: 24271058 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-013-9389-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signalling is critical for neuronal development and transmission. Recruitment of TrkB receptors to lipid rafts has been shown to be necessary for the activation of specific signalling pathways and modulation of neurotransmitter release by BDNF. Since TrkB receptors are known to be modulated by adenosine A(2A) receptor activation, we hypothesized that activation of A(2A) receptors could influence TrkB receptor localization among different membrane microdomains. We found that adenosine A(2A) receptor agonists increased the levels of TrkB receptors in the lipid raft fraction of cortical membranes and potentiated BDNF-induced augmentation of phosphorylated TrkB levels in lipid rafts. Blockade of the clathrin-mediated endocytosis with monodansyl cadaverine (100 μM) did not modify the effects of the A(2A) receptor agonists, but significantly impaired BDNF effects on TrkB recruitment to lipid rafts. The effect of A(2A) receptor activation in TrkB localization was mimicked by 5 μM forskolin, an adenylyl cyclase activator. Also, it was blocked by the PKA inhibitors RpcAMPs and PKI-(14-22) and by the Src-family kinase inhibitor PP2. Moreover, removal of endogenous adenosine or disruption of lipid rafts reduced BDNF stimulatory effects on glutamate release from cortical synaptosomes. Lipid raft integrity was also required for the effects of BDNF upon hippocampal long-term potentiation at CA1 synapses. Our data demonstrate, for the first time, a BDNF-independent recruitment of TrkB receptors to lipid rafts, induced by the activation of adenosine A(2A) receptors, with functional consequences for TrkB phosphorylation and BDNF-induced modulation of neurotransmitter release and hippocampal plasticity.
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15
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Assaife-Lopes N, Sousa VC, Pereira DB, Ribeiro JA, Sebastião AM. Regulation of TrkB receptor translocation to lipid rafts by adenosine A(2A) receptors and its functional implications for BDNF-induced regulation of synaptic plasticity. Purinergic Signal 2013; 10:251-67. [PMID: 24271058 PMCID: PMC4040169 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-013-9383-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signalling is critical for neuronal development and transmission. Recruitment of TrkB receptors to lipid rafts has been shown to be necessary for the activation of specific signalling pathways and modulation of neurotransmitter release by BDNF. Since TrkB receptors are known to be modulated by adenosine A(2A) receptor activation, we hypothesized that activation of A(2A) receptors could influence TrkB receptor localization among different membrane microdomains. We found that adenosine A(2A) receptor agonists increased the levels of TrkB receptors in the lipid raft fraction of cortical membranes and potentiated BDNF-induced augmentation of phosphorylated TrkB levels in lipid rafts. Blockade of the clathrin-mediated endocytosis with monodansyl cadaverine (100 μM) did not modify the effects of the A(2A) receptor agonists, but significantly impaired BDNF effects on TrkB recruitment to lipid rafts. The effect of A(2A) receptor activation in TrkB localization was mimicked by 5 μM forskolin, an adenylyl cyclase activator. Also, it was blocked by the PKA inhibitors RpcAMPs and PKI-(14-22) and by the Src-family kinase inhibitor PP2. Moreover, removal of endogenous adenosine or disruption of lipid rafts reduced BDNF stimulatory effects on glutamate release from cortical synaptosomes. Lipid raft integrity was also required for the effects of BDNF upon hippocampal long-term potentiation at CA1 synapses. Our data demonstrate, for the first time, a BDNF-independent recruitment of TrkB receptors to lipid rafts, induced by the activation of adenosine A(2A) receptors, with functional consequences for TrkB phosphorylation and BDNF-induced modulation of neurotransmitter release and hippocampal plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália Assaife-Lopes
- Institute of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Edif. Egas Moniz, Piso 1B, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Unit of Neuroscience, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Vasco C. Sousa
- Institute of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Edif. Egas Moniz, Piso 1B, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Unit of Neuroscience, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniela B. Pereira
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY 10032 USA
| | - Joaquim A. Ribeiro
- Institute of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Edif. Egas Moniz, Piso 1B, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Unit of Neuroscience, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana M. Sebastião
- Institute of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, Edif. Egas Moniz, Piso 1B, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Unit of Neuroscience, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
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Vincenzi F, Corciulo C, Targa M, Casetta I, Gentile M, Granieri E, Borea PA, Popoli P, Varani K. A2A adenosine receptors are up-regulated in lymphocytes from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2013; 14:406-13. [PMID: 23679925 DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2013.793358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine, a purine nucleoside interacting with A1, A2A, A2B and A3 adenosine receptors (ARs), is a potent endogenous modulator of inflammatory and neuronal processes involved in the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, ARs were investigated in lymphocytes from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and compared with age-matched healthy subjects. In ALS patients A2AARs were analysed by using RT-PCR, Western blotting and saturation binding experiments. The effect of A2AAR stimulation on cyclic AMP levels was evaluated in lymphocytes from ALS patients and healthy subjects. An up-regulation of A2AARs was observed in ALS patients with respect to healthy subjects while A1, A2B and A3AR affinity and density did not change. In ALS patients, the A2AAR density values correlated with the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) scores. Furthermore, the stimulation of A2AARs mediated a significant increase in cyclic AMP levels in lymphocytes from ALS patients, with a higher potency than in lymphocytes from healthy subjects. In conclusion, the positive correlation between A2AAR density and ALSFRS-R scores could indicate a possible protective effect of this receptor subtype, representing an interesting starting point for the study of alternative therapeutic approaches for ALS based on A2AAR modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Vincenzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, Ferrara, Italy
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