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Matak I, Lacković Z. Native botulinum toxin type A vs. redesigned botulinum toxins in pain: What did we learn so far? Curr Opin Pharmacol 2024; 78:102476. [PMID: 39178620 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2024.102476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Driven by the clinical success of botulinum toxin serotype A (BoNT/A) and the need for improved chronic pain management, researchers attempted to develop re-designed botulinum toxin (BoNT)-based molecules as novel analgesics. Various recombinant protein expression strategies including retargeted binding domains, and chimeric toxins combining different serotypes were tested to improve BoNT/A therapeutic safety margin and expand its efficacy. The aim of this review is to re-evaluate the current design strategies for recombinant BoNT-based molecules for pain treatment, compares their analgesic profile against the native BoNT/A, as well as to discuss the main strengths and potential weaknesses of reported approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivica Matak
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Department of Pharmacology and Croatian Institute of Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 11, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Zdravko Lacković
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Department of Pharmacology and Croatian Institute of Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 11, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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2
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Bagues A, Hu J, Alshanqiti I, Chung MK. Neurobiological mechanisms of botulinum neurotoxin-induced analgesia for neuropathic pain. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 259:108668. [PMID: 38782121 PMCID: PMC11182613 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are a family of neurotoxins produced by Clostridia and other bacteria that induce botulism. BoNTs are internalized into nerve terminals at the site of injection and cleave soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins to inhibit the vesicular release of neurotransmitters. BoNTs have been approved for multiple therapeutic applications, including the treatment of migraines. They have also shown efficacies for treating neuropathic pain, such as diabetic neuropathy, and postherpetic and trigeminal neuralgia. However, the mechanisms underlying BoNT-induced analgesia are not well understood. Peripherally administered BoNT is taken up by the nerve terminals and reduces the release of glutamate, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and substance P, which decreases neurogenic inflammation in the periphery. BoNT is retrogradely transported to sensory ganglia and central terminals in a microtubule-dependent manner. BoNTs decrease the expression of pronociceptive genes (ion channels or cytokines) from sensory ganglia and the release of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides from primary afferent central terminals, which likely leads to decreased central sensitization in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord or trigeminal nucleus. BoNT-induced analgesia is abolished after capsaicin-induced denervation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1)-expressing afferents or the knockout of substance P or the neurokinin-1 receptor. Although peripheral administration of BoNT leads to changes in the central nervous system (e.g., decreased phosphorylation of glutamate receptors in second-order neurons, reduced activation of microglia, contralateral localization, and cortical reorganization), whether such changes are secondary to changes in primary afferents or directly mediated by trans-synaptic, transcytotic, or the hematogenous transport of BoNT is controversial. To enhance their therapeutic potential, BoNTs engineered for specific targeting of nociceptive pathways have been developed to treat chronic pain. Further mechanistic studies on BoNT-induced analgesia can enhance the application of native or engineered BoNTs for neuropathic pain treatment with improved safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Bagues
- Área de Farmacología, Nutrición y Bromatología, Dpto. C.C. Básicas de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Unidad Asociada I+D+i al Instituto de Química Médica (CSIC), Alcorcón, Spain; High Performance Research Group in Experimental Pharmacology (PHARMAKOM), Spain
| | - Jiaxin Hu
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Ishraq Alshanqiti
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Program in Dental Biomedical Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore, School of Dentistry, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, School of Dentistry, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Man-Kyo Chung
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Program in Dental Biomedical Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore, School of Dentistry, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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Rasetti-Escargueil C, Palea S. Embracing the Versatility of Botulinum Neurotoxins in Conventional and New Therapeutic Applications. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:261. [PMID: 38922155 PMCID: PMC11209287 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16060261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) have been used for almost half a century in the treatment of excessive muscle contractility. BoNTs are routinely used to treat movement disorders such as cervical dystonia, spastic conditions, blepharospasm, and hyperhidrosis, as well as for cosmetic purposes. In addition to the conventional indications, the use of BoNTs to reduce pain has gained increased recognition, giving rise to an increasing number of indications in disorders associated with chronic pain. Furthermore, BoNT-derived formulations are benefiting a much wider range of patients suffering from overactive bladder, erectile dysfunction, arthropathy, neuropathic pain, and cancer. BoNTs are categorised into seven toxinotypes, two of which are in clinical use, and each toxinotype is divided into multiple subtypes. With the development of bioinformatic tools, new BoNT-like toxins have been identified in non-Clostridial organisms. In addition to the expanding indications of existing formulations, the rich variety of toxinotypes or subtypes in the wild-type BoNTs associated with new BoNT-like toxins expand the BoNT superfamily, forming the basis on which to develop new BoNT-based therapeutics as well as research tools. An overview of the diversity of the BoNT family along with their conventional therapeutic uses is presented in this review followed by the engineering and formulation opportunities opening avenues in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefano Palea
- Humana Biosciences-Prologue Biotech, 516 Rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 31670 Labège, France;
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Corasaniti MT, Lawrence GW, Bagetta G, Iannacchero R, Tarsitano A, Monteleone A, Pagliaro M, Tonin P, Sandrini G, Nicotera P, Scuteri D. Combination of anti-CGRP/CGRP-R mAbs with onabotulinumtoxin A as a novel therapeutic approach for refractory chronic migraine: a retrospective study of real-world clinical evidence and a protocol for a double-blind, randomized clinical trial to establish the efficacy and safety. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1296577. [PMID: 38152694 PMCID: PMC10751376 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1296577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic migraine is a disabling neurovascular disorder that ranks amongst the top causes of years lived with disability worldwide. The duration and the frequency of migraine affect cognitive and affective domains, inducing worsening of memory, executive functions, orientation and causing anxiety. Population-based studies report a worrying level of resistance to treatments. Therefore, this study aims: 1) to assess efficacy of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed towards the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) or its receptor (CGRP-R) for chronic migraine resistant to current preventatives; 2) to design a clinical trial protocol to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy utilizing anti-CGRP/CGRP-R together with onabotulinumtoxin A in patients suffering from resistant chronic migraine; 3) to provide a molecular rationale for combination therapy. A controlled trial is warranted as pooled analysis of real-world data from our group highlighted that combined treatment provides ≥50% reduction vs. baseline (onabotulinumtoxin A) of monthly headache days (MHDs) in up to 58.8% of patients, but there has been only sparse application of this combined therapy to date. The mAbs chosen are: erenumab, because its combination effect with onabotulinumtoxin A improved symptoms in 65% of patients; eptinezumab, due to its faster action. The results highlight that early diagnosis of migraine improves therapeutic outcomes with mAbs alone, confirming their effectiveness and the need for an adequately powered clinical trial evaluating the safety and potential superior effectiveness of eptinezumab/erenumab and onabotulinumtoxin A together.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. T. Corasaniti
- Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - G. W. Lawrence
- Department of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - G. Bagetta
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - R. Iannacchero
- Department of Neurology, Headache Center, Regional Hospital “Pugliese-Ciaccio”, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - A. Tarsitano
- Pain Therapy Center, Provincial Health Authority (ASP), Cosenza, Italy
| | - A. Monteleone
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - M. Pagliaro
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - P. Tonin
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy
| | - G. Sandrini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, IRCCS C. Mondino Foundation Neurologic Institute, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - P. Nicotera
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - D. Scuteri
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy
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Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are multi-domain proteins whose potent and selective actions on nerve endings have led to innovations in both basic and clinical science. The various BoNT domains are responsible for binding to gangliosides and proteins associated with nerve cell membranes, internalization into the cell, and cleavage of one or more SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor) proteins necessary for vesicle docking and fusion. Novel modifications to BoNT molecules, such as the creation of chimeras, helped identify the protein domains responsible for various aspects of BoNT action, such as localized effects. Other molecular modifications have been introduced in attempts to increase the specificity of BoNTs for autonomic or sensory neurons, with the ultimate goal of optimizing therapeutic selectivity. This research, in turn, has led to the development of BoNT-based proteins that can target non-SNARE substrates such as phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). Still others are developing different BoNT serotypes, subtypes, or variants that are longer- or shorter-acting or have faster onset for various clinical purposes. New formulations of BoNTs that provide convenience for both patients and physicians are under investigation. Novel clinical uses are being evaluated for onabotulinumtoxinA, including in the prevention of post-operative atrial fibrillation. All these innovations capitalize on the unique properties of BoNTs, which continue to intrigue scientists and clinicians across numerous fields of study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Oliver Dolly
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mitchell F Brin
- Allergan/AbbVie, Irvine, CA, USA
- University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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Leese C, Christmas C, Mészáros J, Ward S, Maiaru M, Hunt SP, Davletov B. New botulinum neurotoxin constructs for treatment of chronic pain. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202201631. [PMID: 37041008 PMCID: PMC10098373 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain affects one in five people across human societies, with few therapeutic options available. Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) can provide long-lasting pain relief by inhibiting local release of neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, but its highly paralytic nature has limited its analgesic potential. Recent advances in protein engineering have raised the possibility of synthesising non-paralysing botulinum molecules for translation to pain sufferers. However, the synthesis of these molecules, via several synthetic steps, has been challenging. Here, we describe a simple platform for safe production of botulinum molecules for treating nerve injury-induced pain. We produced two versions of isopeptide-bonded BoNT from separate botulinum parts using an isopeptide bonding system. Although both molecules cleaved their natural substrate, SNAP25, in sensory neurons, the structurally elongated iBoNT did not cause motor deficit in rats. We show that the non-paralytic elongated iBoNT targets specific cutaneous nerve fibres and provides sustained pain relief in a rat nerve injury model. Our results demonstrate that novel botulinum molecules can be produced in a simple and safe manner and be useful for treating neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Leese
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Claire Christmas
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Judit Mészáros
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Stephanie Ward
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Maria Maiaru
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, UK
| | - Stephen P Hunt
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Bazbek Davletov
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Neuresta, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
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7
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Pooled Analysis of Real-World Evidence Supports Anti-CGRP mAbs and OnabotulinumtoxinA Combined Trial in Chronic Migraine. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14080529. [PMID: 36006191 PMCID: PMC9413678 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14080529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OnabotulinumtoxinA, targeting the CGRP machinery, has been approved for the last two decades for chronic migraine prevention. The recently approved monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed towards the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway open a new age for chronic migraine control. However, some 40% patients suffering from chronic migraine is still resistant to treatment. The aim of this work is to answer the following PICOS (participants intervention comparator outcome study design) question: Is there evidence of efficacy and safety of the combined administration of anti-CGRP mAbs and onabotulinumtoxinA in chronic migraine? A systematic review and meta-analysis [Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 recommendations] was made up to 19 April 2022. The results are encouraging: the combined treatment proved to afford ≥50% monthly headache days (MHDs)/frequency reduction respect to baseline in up to 58.8% of patients; in comparison, anti-CGRP mAbs reduce MHDs of 1.94 days from baseline and botulinum toxin of 1.86 days. Our study demonstrates for the first time that the combination therapy of onabotulinumtoxinA with anti-CGRP mAbs affords a reduction of 2.67 MHDs with respect to onabotulinumtoxinA alone, with moderate certainty of evidence. Adequately powered, good-quality studies are needed to confirm the response to combination therapy in terms of efficacy and safety. PROSPERO registration: CRD42022313640.
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Antoniazzi C, Belinskaia M, Zurawski T, Kaza SK, Dolly JO, Lawrence GW. Botulinum Neurotoxin Chimeras Suppress Stimulation by Capsaicin of Rat Trigeminal Sensory Neurons In Vivo and In Vitro. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:116. [PMID: 35202143 PMCID: PMC8878885 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14020116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeras of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) serotype A (/A) combined with /E protease might possess improved analgesic properties relative to either parent, due to inheriting the sensory neurotropism of the former with more extensive disabling of SNAP-25 from the latter. Hence, fusions of /E protease light chain (LC) to whole BoNT/A (LC/E-BoNT/A), and of the LC plus translocation domain (HN) of /E with the neuronal acceptor binding moiety (HC) of /A (BoNT/EA), created previously by gene recombination and expression in E. coli., were used. LC/E-BoNT/A (75 units/kg) injected into the whisker pad of rats seemed devoid of systemic toxicity, as reflected by an absence of weight loss, but inhibited the nocifensive behavior (grooming, freezing, and reduced mobility) induced by activating TRPV1 with capsaicin, injected at various days thereafter. No sex-related differences were observed. c-Fos expression was increased five-fold in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis ipsi-lateral to capsaicin injection, relative to the contra-lateral side and vehicle-treated controls, and this increase was virtually prevented by LC/E-BoNT/A. In vitro, LC/E-BoNT/A or /EA diminished CGRP exocytosis from rat neonate trigeminal ganglionic neurons stimulated with up to 1 µM capsaicin, whereas BoNT/A only substantially reduced the release in response to 0.1 µM or less of the stimulant, in accordance with the /E protease being known to prevent fusion of exocytotic vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Gary W. Lawrence
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Collins Avenue, D09 V209 Dublin, Ireland; (C.A.); (M.B.); (T.Z.); (S.K.K.); (J.O.D.)
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Belinskaia M, Zurawski T, Kaza SK, Antoniazzi C, Dolly JO, Lawrence GW. NGF Enhances CGRP Release Evoked by Capsaicin from Rat Trigeminal Neurons: Differential Inhibition by SNAP-25-Cleaving Proteases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020892. [PMID: 35055082 PMCID: PMC8778182 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is known to intensify pain in various ways, so perturbing pertinent effects without negating its essential influences on neuronal functions could help the search for much-needed analgesics. Towards this goal, cultured neurons from neonatal rat trigeminal ganglia—a locus for craniofacial sensory nerves—were used to examine how NGF affects the Ca2+-dependent release of a pain mediator, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), that is triggered by activating a key signal transducer, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) with capsaicin (CAP). Measurements utilised neurons fed with or deprived of NGF for 2 days. Acute re-introduction of NGF induced Ca2+-dependent CGRP exocytosis that was inhibited by botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) or a chimera of/E and/A (/EA), which truncated SNAP-25 (synaptosomal-associated protein with Mr = 25 k) at distinct sites. NGF additionally caused a Ca2+-independent enhancement of the neuropeptide release evoked by low concentrations (<100 nM) of CAP, but only marginally increased the peak response to ≥100 nM. Notably, BoNT/A inhibited CGRP exocytosis evoked by low but not high CAP concentrations, whereas/EA effectively reduced responses up to 1 µM CAP and inhibited to a greater extent its enhancement by NGF. In addition to establishing that sensitisation of sensory neurons to CAP by NGF is dependent on SNARE-mediated membrane fusion, insights were gleaned into the differential ability of two regions in the C-terminus of SNAP-25 (181–197 and 198–206) to support CAP-evoked Ca2+-dependent exocytosis at different intensities of stimulation.
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Go EJ, Ji J, Kim YH, Berta T, Park CK. Transient Receptor Potential Channels and Botulinum Neurotoxins in Chronic Pain. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:772719. [PMID: 34776867 PMCID: PMC8586451 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.772719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain afflicts more than 1.5 billion people worldwide, with hundreds of millions suffering from unrelieved chronic pain. Despite widespread recognition of the importance of developing better interventions for the relief of chronic pain, little is known about the mechanisms underlying this condition. However, transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels in nociceptors have been shown to be essential players in the generation and progression of pain and have attracted the attention of several pharmaceutical companies as therapeutic targets. Unfortunately, TRP channel inhibitors have failed in clinical trials, at least in part due to their thermoregulatory function. Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) have emerged as novel and safe pain therapeutics because of their regulation of exocytosis and pro-nociceptive neurotransmitters. However, it is becoming evident that BoNTs also regulate the expression and function of TRP channels, which may explain their analgesic effects. Here, we summarize the roles of TRP channels in pain, with a particular focus on TRPV1 and TRPA1, their regulation by BoNTs, and briefly discuss the use of BoNTs for the treatment of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Jin Go
- Department of Physiology, Gachon Pain Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Jeongkyu Ji
- Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Yong Ho Kim
- Department of Physiology, Gachon Pain Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Temugin Berta
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Research Center, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Chul-Kyu Park
- Department of Physiology, Gachon Pain Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, South Korea
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Li Y, Liu T, Luo W. Botulinum Neurotoxin Therapy for Depression: Therapeutic Mechanisms and Future Perspective. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:584416. [PMID: 33967844 PMCID: PMC8102733 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.584416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression is one of the most common mental disorders, which causes global burden. Antidepressants and psychotherapies are the mainstay of treatment for depression, which have limited efficacy. Thus, alternative approaches for preventing and treating depression are urgently required. Recent clinical trials and preclinical researches have clarified that peripheral facial injection of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) is a rapid, effective and relative safe therapy for improving some symptoms of depression. Despite its safety and efficacy, the underlying therapeutic mechanisms of BoNT/A for depression remains largely unclear. In the present review, we updated and summarized the clinical and preclinical evidence supporting BoNT/A therapy for the treatment of depression. We further discussed the potential mechanisms underlying therapeutic effects of BoNT/A on depression. Notably, we recently identified that the anti-depressant effects of BoNT/A associated with up-regulation of 5-HT levels and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the hippocampus in a preclinical mouse model. In summary, these studies suggest that BoNT/A therapy is a potential effective and safe intervention for the management of depression. However, fundamental questions remain regarding the future prospects of BoNT/A therapy, including safety, efficacy, dose-response relationships, identification of potential predictors of response, and the precise mechanisms underlying BoNT/A therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Institute of Pain Medicine and Special Environmental Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, China.,College of Life Sciences, Yanan University, Yanan, China
| | - Weifeng Luo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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12
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Rasetti-Escargueil C, Popoff MR. Engineering Botulinum Neurotoxins for Enhanced Therapeutic Applications and Vaccine Development. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 13:1. [PMID: 33374954 PMCID: PMC7821915 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) show increasing therapeutic applications ranging from treatment of locally paralyzed muscles to cosmetic benefits. At first, in the 1970s, BoNT was used for the treatment of strabismus, however, nowadays, BoNT has multiple medical applications including the treatment of muscle hyperactivity such as strabismus, dystonia, movement disorders, hemifacial spasm, essential tremor, tics, cervical dystonia, cerebral palsy, as well as secretory disorders (hyperhidrosis, sialorrhea) and pain syndromes such as chronic migraine. This review summarizes current knowledge related to engineering of botulinum toxins, with particular emphasis on their potential therapeutic applications for pain management and for retargeting to non-neuronal tissues. Advances in molecular biology have resulted in generating modified BoNTs with the potential to act in a variety of disorders, however, in addition to the modifications of well characterized toxinotypes, the diversity of the wild type BoNT toxinotypes or subtypes, provides the basis for innovative BoNT-based therapeutics and research tools. This expanding BoNT superfamily forms the foundation for new toxins candidates in a wider range of therapeutic options.
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Liu P, Song C, Wang C, Li Y, Su L, Li J, Zhao Q, Wang Z, Shen M, Wang G, Yu Y, Zhang L. Spinal SNAP-25 regulates membrane trafficking of GluA1-containing AMPA receptors in spinal injury-induced neuropathic pain in rats. Neurosci Lett 2020; 715:134616. [PMID: 31705923 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Synaptosomal associated proteins of 25 kDa (SNAP-25), as a member of stable soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor complex, is critical for membrane fusion and required for the release of neurotransmitters. The α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor is implicated in pathologic pain. This study aimed to investigate whether and how SNAP-25 regulated AMPA receptors in neuropathic pain. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent L4 spinal nerve ligation (SNL) or the sham procedure. After assessing mechanical allodynia and thermal sensitivity, the ipsilateral portion of the L4-5 spinal cord was harvested. The expression level of SNAP-25 was analyzed by Western blot analysis and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. SNAP-25 phosphorylation and AMPA receptor membrane trafficking levels were evaluated with Western blot analysis. An association between SNAP-25 and AMPA membrane trafficking was confirmed by SNAP-25 expression or phosphorylation inhibition. RESULTS The SNL procedure induced and maintained mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. SNL increased the expression and phosphorylation of SNAP-25 and the membrane trafficking of AMPA receptors in the spinal cord. SNAP-25 expression or phosphorylation inhibition alleviated neuropathic pain and downregulated membrane trafficking of AMPA receptors after SNL. GluA1-containing AMPA receptor inhibition relieved mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia after SNL. CONCLUSIONS The upregulation of SNAP-25-dependent membrane trafficking of AMPA receptors via SNAP-25 phosphorylation at Ser187 contributed to SNL-induced neuropathic pain. Thus, the inhibition of SNAP-25 expression or phosphorylation might serve as a treatment for neuropathic pain. However, the mechanism of GluA1-containing AMPA receptor membrane trafficking mediated by SNAP-25 phosphorylation in neuropathic pain deserves further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Chengcheng Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yize Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Lin Su
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Mengxi Shen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Guolin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yonghao Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China; Tianjin Research Institute of Anesthesiology, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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14
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Steward L, Brin MF, Brideau-Andersen A. Novel Native and Engineered Botulinum Neurotoxins. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2020; 263:63-89. [PMID: 32274579 DOI: 10.1007/164_2020_351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), produced by Clostridia and other bacteria, are the most potent toxins known. Their cleavage of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor activating protein receptor (SNARE) proteins in neurons prevents the release of neurotransmitters, thus resulting in the muscle paralysis that is characteristic of botulism. This mechanism of action has been exploited for a variety of therapeutic and cosmetic applications of BoNTs. This chapter provides an overview of the native BoNTs, including the classical serotypes and their clinical use, mosaic BoNTs, and novel BoNTs that have been recently identified in clostridial and non-clostridial strains. In addition, the modular structure of native BoNTs, which are composed of a light chain and a heavy chain, is amenable to a multitude of novel fusions and mutations using molecular biology techniques. These novel recombinant BoNTs have been used or are being developed to further characterize the biology of toxins, to assist in vaccine production, to serve as delivery vehicles to neurons, and to be utilized as novel therapeutics for both neuronal and non-neuronal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mitchell F Brin
- Allergan plc, Irvine, CA, USA.,University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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15
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Tang M, Meng J, Wang J. New Engineered-Botulinum Toxins Inhibit the Release of Pain-Related Mediators. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010262. [PMID: 31906003 PMCID: PMC6981458 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted delivery of potent inhibitor of cytokine/pain-mediator into inflammatory or pain-sensing cells is a promising avenue for treating chronic pain, a world-wide major healthcare burden. An unmet need exists for a specific and effective delivery strategy. Herein, we describe a new approach using sortase to site-specifically ligate a non-toxic botulinum neurotoxin D (BoNT/D) core-therapeutic (synaptobrevin-cleaving protease and translocation domains) to cell-specific targeting ligands. An engineered core-therapeutic was efficiently ligated to IL-1β ligand within minutes. The resultant conjugate specifically entered into cultured murine primary macrophages, cleaved synaptobrevin 3 and inhibited LPS/IFN-γ evoked IL-6 release. Likewise, a CGRP receptor antagonist ligand delivered BoNT/D protease into sensory neurons and inhibited K+-evoked substance P release. As cytokines and neuropeptides are major regulators of inflammation and pain, blocking their release by novel engineered inhibitors highlights their therapeutic potential. Our report describes a new and widely-applicable strategy for the production of targeted bio-therapeutics for numerous chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jianghui Meng
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (J.W.); Tel.: +353-1700-7351 (J.M.); +353-1700-7489 (J.W.)
| | - Jiafu Wang
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (J.W.); Tel.: +353-1700-7351 (J.M.); +353-1700-7489 (J.W.)
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16
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Matak I, Bölcskei K, Bach-Rojecky L, Helyes Z. Mechanisms of Botulinum Toxin Type A Action on Pain. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E459. [PMID: 31387301 PMCID: PMC6723487 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11080459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Already a well-established treatment for different autonomic and movement disorders, the use of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) in pain conditions is now continuously expanding. Currently, the only approved use of BoNT/A in relation to pain is the treatment of chronic migraines. However, controlled clinical studies show promising results in neuropathic and other chronic pain disorders. In comparison with other conventional and non-conventional analgesic drugs, the greatest advantages of BoNT/A use are its sustained effect after a single application and its safety. Its efficacy in certain therapy-resistant pain conditions is of special importance. Novel results in recent years has led to a better understanding of its actions, although further experimental and clinical research is warranted. Here, we summarize the effects contributing to these advantageous properties of BoNT/A in pain therapy, specific actions along the nociceptive pathway, consequences of its central activities, the molecular mechanisms of actions in neurons, and general pharmacokinetic parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivica Matak
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 11, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Kata Bölcskei
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- János Szentágothai Research Center, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 20, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Lidija Bach-Rojecky
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Zagreb Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Domagojeva 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Zsuzsanna Helyes
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- János Szentágothai Research Center, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 20, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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17
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Belinskaia DA, Belinskaia MA, Barygin OI, Vanchakova NP, Shestakova NN. Psychotropic Drugs for the Management of Chronic Pain and Itch. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2019; 12:ph12020099. [PMID: 31238561 PMCID: PMC6631469 DOI: 10.3390/ph12020099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical observations have shown that patients with chronic neuropathic pain or itch exhibit symptoms of increased anxiety, depression and cognitive impairment. Such patients need corrective therapy with antidepressants, antipsychotics or anticonvulsants. It is known that some psychotropic drugs are also effective for the treatment of neuropathic pain and pruritus syndromes due to interaction with the secondary molecular targets. Our own clinical studies have identified antipruritic and/or analgesic efficacy of the following compounds: tianeptine (atypical tricyclic antidepressant), citalopram (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), mianserin (tetracyclic antidepressant), carbamazepine (anticonvulsant), trazodone (serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor), and chlorprothixene (antipsychotic). Venlafaxine (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) is known to have an analgesic effect too. The mechanism of such effect of these drugs is not fully understood. Herein we review and correlate the literature data on analgesic/antipruritic activity with pharmacological profile of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria A Belinskaia
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, pr. Torez 44, St. Petersburg 194223, Russia.
| | - Mariia A Belinskaia
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland.
| | - Oleg I Barygin
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, pr. Torez 44, St. Petersburg 194223, Russia.
| | - Nina P Vanchakova
- Department of Pedagogy and Psychology, Faculty of Postgraduate Education, First Pavlov State Medical University, L'va Tolstogo str. 6-8, St. Petersburg 197022, Russia.
| | - Natalia N Shestakova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, pr. Torez 44, St. Petersburg 194223, Russia.
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18
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Fonfria E, Elliott M, Beard M, Chaddock JA, Krupp J. Engineering Botulinum Toxins to Improve and Expand Targeting and SNARE Cleavage Activity. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:toxins10070278. [PMID: 29973505 PMCID: PMC6071219 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10070278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are highly successful protein therapeutics. Over 40 naturally occurring BoNTs have been described thus far and, of those, only 2 are commercially available for clinical use. Different members of the BoNT family present different biological properties but share a similar multi-domain structure at the molecular level. In nature, BoNTs are encoded by DNA in producing clostridial bacteria and, as such, are amenable to recombinant production through insertion of the coding DNA into other bacterial species. This, in turn, creates possibilities for protein engineering. Here, we review the production of BoNTs by the natural host and also recombinant production approaches utilised in the field. Applications of recombinant BoNT-production include the generation of BoNT-derived domain fragments, the creation of novel BoNTs with improved performance and enhanced therapeutic potential, as well as the advancement of BoNT vaccines. In this article, we discuss site directed mutagenesis, used to affect the biological properties of BoNTs, including approaches to alter their binding to neurons and to alter the specificity and kinetics of substrate cleavage. We also discuss the target secretion inhibitor (TSI) platform, in which the neuronal binding domain of BoNTs is substituted with an alternative cellular ligand to re-target the toxins to non-neuronal systems. Understanding and harnessing the potential of the biological diversity of natural BoNTs, together with the ability to engineer novel mutations and further changes to the protein structure, will provide the basis for increasing the scope of future BoNT-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fonfria
- Ipsen Bioinnovation, 102 Park Drive, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RY, UK.
| | - Mark Elliott
- Ipsen Bioinnovation, 102 Park Drive, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RY, UK.
| | - Matthew Beard
- Ipsen Bioinnovation, 102 Park Drive, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RY, UK.
| | - John A Chaddock
- Ipsen Bioinnovation, 102 Park Drive, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RY, UK.
| | - Johannes Krupp
- Ipsen Innovation, 5 Avenue du Canada, 91940 Les Ulis, France.
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Nugent M, Yusef YR, Meng J, Wang J, Dolly JO. A SNAP-25 cleaving chimera of botulinum neurotoxin /A and /E prevents TNFα-induced elevation of the activities of native TRP channels on early postnatal rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. Neuropharmacology 2018; 138:257-266. [PMID: 29906413 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Transient receptor potential (TRP) vallinoid 1 (TRPV1) and ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) are two transducing channels expressed on peripheral sensory nerves involved in pain sensation. Upregulation of their expression, stimulated by inflammatory cytokines and growth factors in animal pain models, correlate with the induction of nociceptive hyper-sensitivity. Herein, we firstly demonstrate by immuno-cytochemical labelling that TNFα augments the surface content of these channels on rat cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons which, in turn, enhances the electrophysiological and functional responses of the latter to their specific agonists. A molecular basis underlying this TNFα-dependent enhancement was unveiled by pre-treating DRGs with a recently-published chimeric protein, consisting of the protease light chain (LC) of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) serotype E fused to full-length BoNT/A (LC/E-BoNT/A). This cleaves synaptosomal-associated protein of Mr 25k (SNAP-25) and reported previously to exhibit anti-nociceptive activity in a rat model of neuropathic pain. Low pM concentrations of this chimera were found to prevent the TNFα-stimulated delivery of TRPV1/A1 to the neuronal plasmalemma and, accordingly, decreased their incremental functional activities relative to those of control cells, an effect accompanied by SNAP-25 cleavage. Advantageously, LC/E-BoNT/A did not reduce the basal surface contents of the two channels or their pharmacological responses. Thus, use of multiple complementary methodologies provides evidence that LC/E-BoNT/A abolishes the TNFα-dependent augmented, but not resting, surface trafficking of TRPV1/A1. As TNFα is known to induce nociceptive hyper-sensitivity in vivo, our observed inhibition by LC/E-BoNT/A of its action in vitro could contribute to its potential alleviation of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Nugent
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Yamil R Yusef
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Jianghui Meng
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Jiafu Wang
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - J Oliver Dolly
- International Centre for Neurotherapeutics, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland.
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