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Lynch KS, O'Connell LA, Louder MIM, Balakrishnan CN, Fischer EK. Understanding the Loss of Maternal Care in Avian Brood Parasites Using Preoptic Area Transcriptome Comparisons in Brood Parasitic and Non-parasitic Blackbirds. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2019; 9:1075-1084. [PMID: 30760540 PMCID: PMC6469424 DOI: 10.1534/g3.118.200992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Parental care is critical for offspring survival in many species. However, parental behaviors have been lost in roughly 1% of avian species known as the obligate brood parasites. To shed light on molecular and neurobiological mechanisms mediating brood parasitic behavior, we compared brain gene expression patterns between two brood parasitic species and one closely related non-parasitic Icterid (blackbird) species. Our analyses focused on gene expression changes specifically in the preoptic area (POA), a brain region known to play a critical role in parental behavior across vertebrates. Using comparative transcriptomic approaches, we identified gene expression patterns associated with brood parasitism. We evaluated three non-mutually exclusive alternatives for the evolution of brood parasitism: (1) retention of juvenile-like (neotenic) gene expression, (2) reduced expression of maternal care-related genes in the POA, and/or (3) increased expression of genes inhibiting maternal care. We find evidence for neotenic expression patterns in both species of parasitic cowbirds as compared to maternal, non-parasites. In addition, we observed differential expression in a number of genes with previously established roles in mediating maternal care. Together, these results provide the first insight into transcriptomic and genetic mechanisms underlying the loss of maternal behavior in avian brood parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Matthew I M Louder
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University: Greenville, NC, 27858
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | | | - Eva K Fischer
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305
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Ghanbari A, Moradi Kor N, Rashidy-Pour A. Bombesin-induced enhancement of memory consolidation in male and female rat pups: Role of glutamatergic and dopaminergic systems. Neuropeptides 2018; 70:101-106. [PMID: 29880391 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2018.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that the neuropeptide bombesin (BBS) enhances consolidation of specifically for inhibitory avoidance memory in adult rats. However, its effect on memory consolidation during premature period is not clear as well. Thus, this study evaluated the effect of BBS and its interaction with glutamatergic and dopaminergic systems on memory consolidation in rat pups. Male and female rat pups (30 days old) were trained in an inhibitory avoidance (IA) task (0.5 mA, 3 s footshock). Memory retention was tested 24 h later during which the latency to re-enter to the shock compartment was recorded. First, the effects of different doses (0.001, 0.0025, 0.005, 0.01 and 0.02 mg/kg) of BBS injected immediately following training were tested. Then, the effect of the most effective dose of BBS obtained in the previous experiment was examined in the presence of the glutamate NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 (0.05 mg/kg), the dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH-23390 (0.05 mg/kg) and the dopamine D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride (20 mg/kg). Findings indicate that BBS significantly enhances memory consolidation at all tested doses in male pups and at a dose of 0.01 mg/kg in female pups. MK-801, SCH-23390 and sulpiride administration before BBS injection in individual groups significantly blocked BBS-induced memory enhancement. Our findings indicate that similar to adult rats, BBS enhances memory consolidation in developing rat. This enhancing effect is mediated, at least in part, via an interaction with glutamatergic and dopaminergic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ghanbari
- Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Nasroallah Moradi Kor
- Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran; Student Research Committee and Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Ali Rashidy-Pour
- Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran; Research Center of Physiology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
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A Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial of Gastrin-Releasing Peptide in Childhood Autism. Clin Neuropharmacol 2017; 40:108-112. [PMID: 28452904 DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) compared with placebo in autism spectrum disorder symptoms. METHODOLOGY This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial using GRP 160 pmol/kg for 4 consecutive days in 10 children with autism. Outcomes were measured by the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) scale. RESULTS All participants were boys, aged between 4 and 9 years. There was a reduction in the scores of the ABC range and its subscales after use GRP and placebo. The reduction was more prominent with GRP, particularly in the subscale "hyperactivity and noncompliance," but there was no statistical difference between the results (P = 0.334). After a week of infusion, 5 children showed improvement of 25% or greater in the total score of the ABC scale with GRP use and 2 with placebo use; however, there was no statistical difference (P = 0.375). There were no adverse effects, changes in vital signs, or laboratory abnormalities associated with the use of GRP. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study, despite the small sample size, reinforce previous data on the safety of the GRP in short-term use. There is a need for further research with other designs and a larger sample size to evaluate the efficacy and safety of GRP in children with autism.
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Improvement in Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children With the Use of Gastrin-Releasing Peptide: An Open Trial. Clin Neuropharmacol 2016; 39:215-9. [DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Improvement of autism spectrum disorder symptoms in three children by using gastrin‐releasing peptide. JORNAL DE PEDIATRIA (VERSÃO EM PORTUGUÊS) 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedp.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Becker MM, Bosa C, Oliveira-Freitas VL, Goldim JR, Ohlweiler L, Roesler R, Schwartsmann G, Riesgo RDS. Improvement of autism spectrum disorder symptoms in three children by using gastrin-releasing peptide. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2016; 92:302-6. [PMID: 26893210 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety, tolerability and potential therapeutic effects of gastrin-releasing peptide in three children with autistic spectrum disorder. METHODS Case series study with the intravenous administration of gastrin-releasing peptide in the dose of 160pmol/kg for four consecutive days. To evaluate the results, parental impressions the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) Scale. Each child underwent a new peptide cycle after two weeks. The children were followed for four weeks after the end of the infusions. RESULTS The gastrin-releasing peptide was well tolerated and no child had adverse effects. Two children had improved social interaction, with a slight improvement in joint attention and the interaction initiatives. Two showed reduction of stereotypes and improvement in verbal language. One child lost his compulsion to bathe, an effect that lasted two weeks after each infusion cycle. Average reduction in CARS score was 2.8 points. CGI was "minimally better" in two children and "much better" in one. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that the gastrin-releasing peptide is safe and may be effective in improving key symptoms of autism spectrum disorder, but its results should be interpreted with caution. Controlled clinical trials-randomized, double-blinded, and with more children-are needed to better evaluate the possible therapeutic effects of gastrin-releasing peptide in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Michelin Becker
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Cleonice Bosa
- Department of Psychology, Instituto de Psicologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | - José Roberto Goldim
- Department of Research Group and Post-Graduation, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lygia Ohlweiler
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael Roesler
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Gilberto Schwartsmann
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rudimar Dos Santos Riesgo
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Neurology Unit, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Petry FS, Dornelles AS, Lichtenfels M, Valiati FE, de Farias CB, Schwartsmann G, Parent MB, Roesler R. Histone deacetylase inhibition prevents the impairing effects of hippocampal gastrin-releasing peptide receptor antagonism on memory consolidation and extinction. Behav Brain Res 2016; 307:46-53. [PMID: 27025446 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hippocampal gastrin-releasing peptide receptors (GRPR) regulate memory formation and extinction, and disturbances in GRPR signaling may contribute to cognitive impairment associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene expression involved in memory formation, and histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) rescue memory deficits in several models. The present study determined whether inhibiting histone deacetylation would prevent memory impairments produced by GRPR blockade in the hippocampus. Male Wistar rats were given an intrahippocampal infusion of saline (SAL) or the HDACi sodium butyrate (NaB) shortly before inhibitory avoidance (IA) training, followed by an infusion of either SAL or the selective GRPR antagonist RC-3095 immediately after training. In a second experiment, the infusions were administered before and after a retention test trial that served as extinction training. As expected, RC-3095 significantly impaired consolidation and extinction of IA memory. More importantly, pretraining administration of NaB, at a dose that had no effect when given alone, prevented the effects of RC-3095. In addition, the combination of NaB and RC-3095 increased hippocampal levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). These findings indicate that HDAC inhibition can protect against memory impairment caused by GRPR blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda S Petry
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Arethuza S Dornelles
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Martina Lichtenfels
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda E Valiati
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Caroline Brunetto de Farias
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Children's Cancer Institute, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Gilberto Schwartsmann
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Marise B Parent
- Neuroscience Institute and Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rafael Roesler
- Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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Shimizu T, Shimizu S, Higashi Y, Nakamura K, Yoshimura N, Saito M. A Stress-Related Peptide Bombesin Centrally Induces Frequent Urination through Brain Bombesin Receptor Types 1 and 2 in the Rat. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2016; 356:693-701. [PMID: 26729307 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.115.230334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress exacerbates symptoms of bladder dysfunction including overactive bladder and bladder pain syndrome, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Bombesin-like peptides and bombesin receptor types 1 and 2 (BB1 and BB2, respectively) in the brain have been implicated in the mediation/integration of stress responses. In this study, we examined effects of centrally administered bombesin on micturition, focusing on their dependence on 1) the sympathoadrenomedullary system (a representative mechanism activated by stress exposure) and 2) brain BB receptors in urethane-anesthetized (1.0-1.2 g/kg, i.p.) male rats. Intracerebroventricularly administered bombesin significantly shortened intercontraction intervals (ICI) at both doses (0.1 and 1 nmol/animal) without affecting maximal voiding pressure. Bombesin at 1 nmol induced significant increments of plasma noradrenaline and adrenaline levels, which were both abolished by acute bilateral adrenalectomy. On the other hand, adrenalectomy showed no effects on the bombesin-induced shortening of ICI. Much lower doses of bombesin (0.01 and 0.03 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) dose-dependently shortened ICI. Pretreatment with either a BB1 receptor antagonist (BIM-23127; d-Nal-cyclo[Cys-Tyr-d-Trp-Orn-Val-Cys]-Nal-NH2; 3 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) or a BB2 receptor antagonist (BEA; H-d-Phe-Gln-Trp-Ala-Val-Gly-His-Leu-NHEt; 3 nmol/animal, i.c.v.), respectively, suppressed the BB (0.03 nmol/animal, i.c.v.)-induced shortening of ICI, whereas each antagonist by itself (1 and 3 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) had no significant effects on ICI. Bombesin (0.03 nmol/animal, i.c.v.) significantly reduced voided volume per micturition and bladder capacity without affecting postvoid residual volume or voiding efficiency. These results suggest that brain bombesin and BB receptors are involved in facilitation of the rat micturition reflex to induce bladder overactivity, which is independent of the sympathoadrenomedullary outflow modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Shimizu
- Department of Pharmacology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan (T.S., S.S., Y.H., K.N., M.S.); and Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (T.S., N.Y.)
| | - Shogo Shimizu
- Department of Pharmacology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan (T.S., S.S., Y.H., K.N., M.S.); and Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (T.S., N.Y.)
| | - Youichirou Higashi
- Department of Pharmacology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan (T.S., S.S., Y.H., K.N., M.S.); and Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (T.S., N.Y.)
| | - Kumiko Nakamura
- Department of Pharmacology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan (T.S., S.S., Y.H., K.N., M.S.); and Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (T.S., N.Y.)
| | - Naoki Yoshimura
- Department of Pharmacology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan (T.S., S.S., Y.H., K.N., M.S.); and Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (T.S., N.Y.)
| | - Motoaki Saito
- Department of Pharmacology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan (T.S., S.S., Y.H., K.N., M.S.); and Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (T.S., N.Y.)
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9
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Assessment of disease-related cognitive impairments using the novel object recognition (NOR) task in rodents. Behav Brain Res 2015; 285:176-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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10
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Merali Z, Presti-Torres J, Mackay JC, Johnstone J, Du L, St-Jean A, Levesque D, Kent P, Schwartsmann G, Roesler R, Schroder N, Anisman H. Long-term behavioral effects of neonatal blockade of gastrin-releasing peptide receptors in rats: similarities to autism spectrum disorders. Behav Brain Res 2014; 263:60-9. [PMID: 24462726 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gastrin releasing peptide, the mammalian counterpart of the amphibian peptide, bombesin, has been increasingly implicated in regulating normal brain function as well as in the pathogenesis of psychiatric and/or neurodevelopmental disorders. We have previously shown that the neonatal blockade of the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPr) in rats produces long-lasting consequences during central nervous system development that are commonly observed in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders. The present investigation assessed in further detail, long-term behavioral effects of neonatal GRPr blockade. During postnatal days 1-10, male Wistar rat pups (n=5-10/litter) were injected (subcutaneously) with the GRPr antagonist, RC-3095 (1 mg/kg), or a vehicle (control), twice daily. Following the drug treatment regimen, several behaviors were assessed (starting on postnatal day 14) including specific social behaviors (namely, group huddling characteristics, social interaction, and social approach), restrictive/repetitive and stereotyped behaviors (y-maze, repetitive novel object contact task, observation for stereotypies) and anxiety/fear-related responses (open field, elevated plus maze and contextual fear conditioning). Rats treated neonatally with RC-3095 showed reduced sociability, restrictive interests, motor stereotypies and enhanced learned fear response compared to the controls (vehicle-treated rats). These behavioral abnormalities are consistent with those observed in autism spectrum disorders and provide further evidence that neonatal blockade of GRPr could potentially serve as a useful model to gain a better understanding of the underlying neurodevelopmental disruptions contributing to the expression of autism-relevant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Merali
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; University of Ottawa, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada.
| | - J Presti-Torres
- University of Ottawa, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada; Neurobiology and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Pontifical Catholic University, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil
| | - J C Mackay
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; University of Ottawa, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - J Johnstone
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; University of Ottawa, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - L Du
- University of Ottawa, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - A St-Jean
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - D Levesque
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - P Kent
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; University of Ottawa, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - G Schwartsmann
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), 90035-003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - R Roesler
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), 90035-003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Neural Tumor Biology, Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90050-170, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - N Schroder
- Neurobiology and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Pontifical Catholic University, Porto Alegre, 90619-900, Brazil; National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), 90035-003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - H Anisman
- Institute of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada; University of Ottawa, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7K4, Canada
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11
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Gastrin-releasing peptide receptor signaling in the integration of stress and memory. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2013; 112:44-52. [PMID: 24001571 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2013.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Revised: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides act as signaling molecules that regulate a range of aspects of brain function. Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) is a 27-amino acid mammalian neuropeptide, homolog of the amphibian peptide bombesin. GRP acts by binding to the GRP receptor (GRPR, also called BB2), a member of the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily. GRP produced by neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) plays a role in synaptic transmission by activating GRPRs located on postsynaptic membranes, influencing several aspects of brain function. Here we review the role of GRP/GRPR as a system mediating both stress responses and the formation and expression of memories for fearful events. GRPR signaling might integrate the processing of stress and fear with synaptic plasticity and memory, serving as an important component of the set of neurobiological systems underlying the enhancement of memory storage by aversive information.
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12
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Dean SL, Knutson JF, Krebs-Kraft DL, McCarthy MM. Prostaglandin E2 is an endogenous modulator of cerebellar development and complex behavior during a sensitive postnatal period. Eur J Neurosci 2012; 35:1218-29. [PMID: 22512254 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2012.08032.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandins are lipid-derived molecules that mediate the generation of fever in the central nervous system. In addition to their proinflammatory role, prostaglandins also impact neuronal development and synaptic plasticity, sometimes in a sex-specific manner. The cerebellum has a high expression of prostaglandin receptors during development, but the role that these molecules play during normal cerebellar maturation is unknown. We demonstrate here that disrupting prostaglandin synthesis with cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors during a time-sensitive window in early postnatal life alters cerebellar Purkinje cell development in rats, resulting in initially increased dendritic growth in both sexes. We show that this results in later cerebellar atrophy in males only, resulting in a sex-specific loss of cerebellar volume. Further, although performance in motor tasks is spared, social interaction and the sensory threshold are altered in males developmentally exposed to cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors. This work demonstrates a previously unknown role for prostaglandins in cerebellar development and emphasizes the role that the cerebellum plays outside motor tasks, in cognitive and sensory domains that may help to explain its connection to complex neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L Dean
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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13
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Roesler R, Schwartsmann G. Gastrin-releasing peptide receptors in the central nervous system: role in brain function and as a drug target. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2012; 3:159. [PMID: 23251133 PMCID: PMC3523293 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2012.00159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides acting on specific cell membrane receptors of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily regulate a range of important aspects of nervous and neuroendocrine function. Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) is a mammalian neuropeptide that binds to the GRP receptor (GRPR, BB2). Increasing evidence indicates that GRPR-mediated signaling in the central nervous system (CNS) plays an important role in regulating brain function, including aspects related to emotional responses, social interaction, memory, and feeding behavior. In addition, some alterations in GRP or GRPR expression or function have been described in patients with neurodegenerative, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric disorders, as well as in brain tumors. Findings from preclinical models are consistent with the view that the GRPR might play a role in brain disorders, and raise the possibility that GRPR agonists might ameliorate cognitive and social deficits associated with neurological diseases, while antagonists may reduce anxiety and inhibit the growth of some types of brain cancer. Further preclinical and translational studies evaluating the potential therapeutic effects of GRPR ligands are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Roesler
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Neural Tumor Biology, Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do SulPorto Alegre, Brazil
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do SulPorto Alegre, Brazil
- National Institute for Translational MedicinePorto Alegre, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Rafael Roesler, Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Neural Tumor Biology, Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90050-170 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. e-mail:
| | - Gilberto Schwartsmann
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University Hospital Research Center (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do SulPorto Alegre, Brazil
- National Institute for Translational MedicinePorto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do SulPorto Alegre, Brazil
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Presti-Torres J, Garcia VA, Dornelles A, Halmenschlager LH, Alcalde LA, Vedana G, Rico EP, Bogo MR, Schwartsmann G, Roesler R, Schröder N. Rescue of social behavior impairment by clozapine and alterations in the expression of neuronal receptors in a rat model of neurodevelopmental impairment induced by GRPR blockade. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2011; 119:319-27. [PMID: 21847557 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-011-0695-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 07/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Presti-Torres
- Neurobiology and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Biosciences, Pontifical Catholic University, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Prédio 12D, Sala 340, 90619-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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15
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will highlight recent advances in the understanding of mammalian bombesin receptor-related pathophysiological roles in disease states and new insights into bombesin receptor pharmacology. RECENT FINDINGS Studies regarding bombesin-like peptides and mammalian bombesin receptor functions have demonstrated significant biological impact on a broad array of physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Pharmacological experiments in vitro and in vivo as well as utilization of genetic rodent models of the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRP-R/BB2) and neuromedin B receptor (NMB-R/BB1) further delineated roles in memory and fear behavior, inhibition of tumor cell growth, mediating signals for pruritus and male reproductive behavior. All three mammalian bombesin receptors were shown to possess some role in the regulation of energy balance. Novel synthesis of selective high affinity agonists and antagonists of the orphan bombesin receptor subtype-3 (BRS-3/BB3) has been accomplished and will facilitate further studies using animal model systems. SUMMARY Mammalian bombesin receptors participate in the regulation of energy homeostasis and may represent an attractive target for pharmacological treatment of obesity and certain eating disorders. Novel pharmacological insights of bombesin-like peptides and the interaction with their respective receptors have been elucidated to aid future treatment and imaging of epithelial cell-derived tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishita D Majumdar
- Section of Gastroenterology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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16
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Cognitive enhancers: focus on modulatory signaling influencing memory consolidation. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2011; 99:155-63. [PMID: 21236291 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2010.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2010] [Revised: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 12/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Biological research has unraveled many of the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the formation of long-lasting memory, providing new opportunities for the development of cognitive-enhancing drugs. Studies of drug enhancement of cognition have benefited from the use of pharmacological treatments given after learning, allowing the investigation of mechanisms regulating the consolidation phase of memory. Modulatory systems influencing consolidation processes include stress hormones and several neurotransmitter and neuropeptide systems. Here, we review some of the findings on memory enhancement by drug administration in animal models, and discuss their implications for the development of cognitive enhancers.
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Jolous-Jamshidi B, Cromwell HC, McFarland AM, Meserve LA. Perinatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls alters social behaviors in rats. Toxicol Lett 2010; 199:136-43. [PMID: 20813172 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2010.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Revised: 08/23/2010] [Accepted: 08/24/2010] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Perinatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) leads to significant alterations of neural and hormonal systems. These alterations have been shown to impair motor and sensory development. Less is known about the influence of PCB exposure on developing emotional and motivational systems involved in social interactions and social learning. The present study examined the impact of perinatal PCB exposure (mixture of congeners 47 and 77) on social recognition in juvenile animals, conspecific-directed investigation in adults and on neural and hormonal systems involved in social functions. We used a standard habituation-dishabituation paradigm to evaluate juvenile recognition and a social port paradigm to monitor adult social investigation. Areal measures of the periventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus were obtained to provide correlations with related hormone and brain systems. PCB exposed rats were significantly impaired in social recognition as indicated by persistent conspecific-directed exploration by juvenile animals regardless of social experience. As adults, PCB exposure led to a dampening of the isolation-induced enhancement of social investigation. There was not a concomitant alteration of social investigation in pair-housed PCB exposed animals at this stage of development. Interestingly, PVN area was significantly decreased in juvenile animals exposed to PCB during the perinatal period. Shifts in hypothalamic regulation of hormones involved in social behavior and stress could be involved in the behavioral changes observed. Overall, the results suggest that PCB exposure impairs context or experience-dependent modulation of social approach and investigation. These types of social-context deficits are similar to behavioral deficits observed in social disorders such as autism and other pervasive developmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banafsheh Jolous-Jamshidi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403-0208, USA
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18
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Garcia VA, Dornelles AS, Presti-Torres J, Alcalde LA, Halmenschlager LH, Schwartsmann G, Roesler R, Lucion AB, Schröder N. Neonatal gastrin-releasing peptide receptor blockade reduces maternal odor preference in rats. Behav Brain Res 2010; 214:456-9. [PMID: 20678987 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2010.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2010] [Revised: 05/18/2010] [Accepted: 05/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in attachment behavior might play a role in the dysfunction in social behavior displayed by autistic infants. Here we show that neonatal gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) blockade induces a reduction in maternal odor preference, a task involving attachment behavior, in infant rats. These findings provide the first evidence that the GRPR regulates odor preference, supporting the view that the GRPR is involved in attachment and social behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa A Garcia
- Neurobiology and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Biosciences, Pontifical Catholic University, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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19
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will highlight recent advances in the understanding of molecular mechanisms by which mammalian bombesin receptors are regulated and which intracellular signaling pathways have been characterized to mediate agonist-dependent receptor biological effects. RECENT FINDINGS Mammalian bombesin receptors have been demonstrated to be involved in a larger array of physiological and pathophysiological conditions than previously reported. Pharmacological experiments in vitro and in vivo as well as utilization of animals genetically deficient of the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor demonstrated roles in memory and fear behavior, lung development and injury, small intestinal cell repair, autocrine tumor growth, and mediating signals for pruritus and penile reflexes. Intracellular signaling studies predominantly of the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor owing to its frequent overexpression in some human malignancies showed that PI3 kinase activation is an important mechanism of cell proliferation. Tumor cell treatment including gastrin-releasing peptide receptor antagonists combined with inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor resulted in an additive effect on blocking cell proliferation. Novel molecular mechanisms of the orphan bombesin receptor subtype-3 and gastrin-releasing peptide receptor gene regulation have been elucidated. SUMMARY Inhibition of gastrin-releasing peptide receptor signaling in human malignancies represents an attractive target for pharmacological treatment. Novel functions of bombesin related peptides have been identified including processes in the central nervous system, lung and intestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Christian Weber
- Boston University School of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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20
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Abstract
All forms of the neuropeptide gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) are derived from the precursor proGRP1-125. Amidated GRP18-27, which together with amidated GRP1-27 was long thought to be the only biologically relevant product of the GRP gene, is involved in a multitude of physiological functions and acts as a mitogen, morphogen, and proangiogenic factor in certain cancers. Recently, GRP has been implicated in several psychiatric conditions, in the maintenance of circadian rhythm, in spinal transmission of the itch sensation, and in inflammation and wound repair. The actions of GRP are mediated by the GRP receptor. Over the last decade, nonamidated peptides derived from proGRP, such as the glycine-extended form GRP18-28 and recombinant and synthetic fragments from proGRP31-125, have been shown to be biologically active in a range of tissues and in cancer cell lines. While GRP18-28 acts via the GRP receptor, the identity of the receptor for proGRP31-125 and its fragments has not yet been established. Nonamidated fragments are also present in normal tissues and in various cancers. In fact, proGRP31-98 is the most sensitive serum biomarker in patients with small cell lung cancer and is a significant predictor of poor survival in patients with advanced prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Ischia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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21
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Shultz SR, MacFabe DF, Ossenkopp KP, Scratch S, Whelan J, Taylor R, Cain DP. Intracerebroventricular injection of propionic acid, an enteric bacterial metabolic end-product, impairs social behavior in the rat: Implications for an animal model of autism. Neuropharmacology 2008; 54:901-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2007] [Revised: 01/23/2008] [Accepted: 01/25/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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22
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Jensen RT, Battey JF, Spindel ER, Benya RV. International Union of Pharmacology. LXVIII. Mammalian bombesin receptors: nomenclature, distribution, pharmacology, signaling, and functions in normal and disease states. Pharmacol Rev 2008; 60:1-42. [PMID: 18055507 PMCID: PMC2517428 DOI: 10.1124/pr.107.07108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 395] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian bombesin receptor family comprises three G protein-coupled heptahelical receptors: the neuromedin B (NMB) receptor (BB(1)), the gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) receptor (BB(2)), and the orphan receptor bombesin receptor subtype 3 (BRS-3) (BB(3)). Each receptor is widely distributed, especially in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and central nervous system (CNS), and the receptors have a large range of effects in both normal physiology and pathophysiological conditions. The mammalian bombesin peptides, GRP and NMB, demonstrate a broad spectrum of pharmacological/biological responses. GRP stimulates smooth muscle contraction and GI motility, release of numerous GI hormones/neurotransmitters, and secretion and/or hormone release from the pancreas, stomach, colon, and numerous endocrine organs and has potent effects on immune cells, potent growth effects on both normal tissues and tumors, potent CNS effects, including regulation of circadian rhythm, thermoregulation; anxiety/fear responses, food intake, and numerous CNS effects on the GI tract as well as the spinal transmission of chronic pruritus. NMB causes contraction of smooth muscle, has growth effects in various tissues, has CNS effects, including effects on feeding and thermoregulation, regulates thyroid-stimulating hormone release, stimulates various CNS neurons, has behavioral effects, and has effects on spinal sensory transmission. GRP, and to a lesser extent NMB, affects growth and/or differentiation of various human tumors, including colon, prostate, lung, and some gynecologic cancers. Knockout studies show that BB(3) has important effects in energy balance, glucose homeostasis, control of body weight, lung development and response to injury, tumor growth, and perhaps GI motility. This review summarizes advances in our understanding of the biology/pharmacology of these receptors, including their classification, structure, pharmacology, physiology, and role in pathophysiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- R T Jensen
- Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
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23
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Gonzalez N, Moody TW, Igarashi H, Ito T, Jensen RT. Bombesin-related peptides and their receptors: recent advances in their role in physiology and disease states. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2008; 15:58-64. [PMID: 18185064 PMCID: PMC2631407 DOI: 10.1097/med.0b013e3282f3709b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mammalian bombesin-related peptides, gastrin-releasing peptide and neuromedin B actions are mediated by two receptors (BB1-receptor, BB2-receptor), which are closely related to the orphan receptor BRS-3 (BB3-receptor). The purpose of this review is to highlight advances in the understanding of these peptides in physiology/disease states. RECENT FINDINGS Pharmacologic/receptor-knockout studies show involvement of these receptors in a number of new processes/diseases. Neuromedin B/BB1-receptor is an important physiological regulator of pituitary-thyroid function; in mediating behavior, especially feas/anxiety; in mediating satiety through different cascades than gastrin-releasing peptide/BB2 receptors and for its autocrine tumor-growth effects. Gastrin-releasing peptide/BB2-receptor plays important roles in mediating signals for pruritus, lung development/injury, small intestinal mucosal defense, and central nervous system processes such as learning/memory. The signaling mechanisms of its potent growth effects are being elucidated and their possible therapeutic targets identified. BB3-receptor knockout mice provided insights for their obesity/glucose intolerance and demonstrated that this receptor may be important in the lung response to injury, tumor growth and gastrointestinal motility. Each receptor is frequently overexpressed in human tumors and has potent growth effects. This effect is being explored to develop new antitumor treatments, such as bombesin-receptor ligands conjugated to cytotoxic agents. SUMMARY This receptor family is involved in an increasing number of central nervous system/peripheral processes physiologically and in disease states, and increased understanding of its role may lead to novel treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nieves Gonzalez
- Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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24
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Bibliography. Current world literature. Growth and development. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2008; 15:79-101. [PMID: 18185067 DOI: 10.1097/med.0b013e3282f4f084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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25
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Durkan K, Lambrecht FY, Unak P. Radiolabeling of bombesin-like peptide with 99mTc: 99mTc-litorin and biodistribution in rats. Bioconjug Chem 2007; 18:1516-20. [PMID: 17760415 DOI: 10.1021/bc060400x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Bombesin-like peptides are related to several human cancer receptors, including small cell lung, prostate, breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers. Litorin, an amphibian bombesin peptide derivative, is found to stimulate the contraction of smooth muscle, to stimulate gastrin, gastric acid, and pancreatic secretion, and to suppress the nutriment in in vivo experiments. In the present study, litorin was labeled with 99mTc by the stannous chloride procedure. Labeling yield is 95 +/- 1.4%, as determined by radio thin layer chromatography (RTLC) and radio high performance chromatography (RHPLC). Results of in vitro studies demonstrated a high stability in serum and cysteine solutions. In vivo biodistribution was investigated with normal male Albino Wistar rats. Biodistribution data showed fast clearance, low intestinal accumulation, and significant uptake in bombesin/gastrin releasing peptide (BN/GRP) receptor rich tissues such as the pancreas (23.56 +/- 0.01 %ID/g 30 min pi). It can be blocked partially by previous administration of 'cold' litorin. The results showed specificity of the uptake. As 99mTc-litorin displays good radiolabeling and biodistribution, it is a potentially useful radiopharmaceutical for detection of bombesin receptor-expressing cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kubra Durkan
- Department of Nuclear Applications, Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Ege University, Bornova 35100, Izmir, Turkey
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26
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Roesler R, Luft T, Schwartsmann G. Targeting the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor pathway to treat cognitive dysfunctionassociated with Alzheimer's Disease. Dement Neuropsychol 2007; 1:118-123. [PMID: 29213377 PMCID: PMC5619558 DOI: 10.1590/s1980-57642008dn10200002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that bombesin (BB)-like peptides (BLPs), such as
the gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) and its receptor (GRPR), might play a role
in neurological and psychiatric disorders. The present study reviews findings
from animal and human studies suggesting that the GRPR should be considered a
target for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction in patients with Alzheimer’s
disease (AD). Abnormalities in GRPR-triggered signaling have been described in
both fibroblasts from patients with AD, and in transgenic mouse models of AD.
Pharmacological and genetic preclinical studies have indicated that BLPs and the
GRPR are importantly involved in regulating cognitive function. Moreover, drugs
acting at the GRPR have been shown to enhance memory and ameliorate cognitive
dysfunction in experimental models of amnesia associated with AD. Taken
together, these findings support the view that the GRPR is a novel therapeutic
target for the treatment of memory deficits associated with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Roesler
- Cellular and Molecular Neuropharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90046-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Cancer Research Laboratory, Academic Hospital Research Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-003 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Luft
- Cellular and Molecular Neuropharmacology Research Group, Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90046-900 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-003 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Gilberto Schwartsmann
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Academic Hospital Research Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-003 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90035-003 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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