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Mohammed HE, Bady Z, Haseeb ME, Aboeldahab H, Sharaf-Eldin WE, Zaki MS. Is trofinetide a future treatment for Rett syndrome? A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMC Med 2024; 22:299. [PMID: 39020317 PMCID: PMC11256568 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03506-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare, life-threatening, genetic neurodevelopmental disorder. Treatment in RTT encounters many challenges. Trofinetide, a modified amino-terminal tripeptide of insulin-like growth factor 1, has demonstrated clinically promising results in RTT. In this study, trofinetide efficacy and safety in RTT are systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed. METHODS A systematic search of five electronic databases was conducted until January 2024. Review Manager 5.4 software was used for the analysis. The analysis was based on a weighted mean difference and standard error with a confidence interval (CI) of 95%, and a statistically significant P-value was considered if it was < 0.05. The study was registered on PROSPERO with registration number CRD42024499849. Quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE. RESULTS Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 276 patients were included in the analysis. Trofinetide improved both caregiver outcomes and clinical scales by improving the Rett Syndrome Behavior Questionnaire (RSBQ) (mean difference (MD): - 3.46 points, 95% CI: - 5.63 to - 1.27, P = 0.0002) and Clinical Global Impression Scale-Improvement (CGI-I) (MD: - 0.35, 95% CI: - 0.51 to - 0.18, P < 0.0001), respectively. However, trofinetide neither improved the Caregiver Top 3 Concerns Visual Analog Scale nor the Rett Motor Behavioral Assessment. Regarding safety, trofinetide was significantly associated with vomiting compared to placebo (odds ratio (OR): 3.17, 95% CI: 1.57 to 6.43, P = 0.001). After solving heterogeneity, results showed a statistically significant incidence of diarrhea in the trofinetide (200 mg) group compared to placebo (OR: 18.51, 95% CI: 9.30 to 36.84, P ≤ 0.00001). CONCLUSIONS Trofinetide demonstrated statistically significant improvements in CGI-I and RSBQ in pediatrics and adult patients with Rett. Side effects are limited to vomiting and diarrhea. Although diarrhea yielded an insignificant result in our analysis, it emerged as a cause for treatment discontinuation in the participating trials, and a statistically significant risk for diarrhea emerged when excluding the study using a lower dose of the drug, hence causing heterogeneity, in the meta-analysis. Given the diverse genetic landscape of RTT, future RCTs investigating correlations between RTT genotype and phenotypic improvements by trofinetide will be beneficial. RCTs encompassing male patients with larger and longer cohorts are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zeyad Bady
- Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Heba Aboeldahab
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Negida Academy, Cairo, Egypt
- Clinical Research Department, El-Gomhoria General Hospital, MOHP, Alexandria, Egypt
- Biomedical Informatics and Medical Statistics Department, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Wessam E Sharaf-Eldin
- Medical Molecular Genetics Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maha S Zaki
- Clinical Genetics Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt.
- Medical Genetics Department, Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt.
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Salardani M, Barcick U, Zelanis A. Proteolytic signaling in cancer. Expert Rev Proteomics 2023; 20:345-355. [PMID: 37873978 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2023.2275671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer is a disease of (altered) biological pathways, often driven by somatic mutations and with several implications. Therefore, the identification of potential markers of disease is challenging. Given the large amount of biological data generated with omics approaches, oncology has experienced significant contributions. Proteomics mapping of protein fragments, derived from proteolytic processing events during oncogenesis, may shed light on (i) the role of active proteases and (ii) the functional implications of processed substrates in biological signaling circuits. Both outcomes have the potential for predicting diagnosis/prognosis in diseases like cancer. Therefore, understanding proteolytic processing events and their downstream implications may contribute to advances in the understanding of tumor biology and targeted therapies in precision medicine. AREAS COVERED Proteolytic events associated with some hallmarks of cancer (cell migration and proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, as well as extracellular matrix degradation) will be discussed. Moreover, biomarker discovery and the use of proteomics approaches to uncover proteolytic signaling events will also be covered. EXPERT OPINION Proteolytic processing is an irreversible protein post-translational modification and the deconvolution of biological data resulting from the study of proteolytic signaling events may be used in both patient diagnosis/prognosis and targeted therapies in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murilo Salardani
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Institute of Science and Technology, Federal University of São Paulo, São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil
| | - Uilla Barcick
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Institute of Science and Technology, Federal University of São Paulo, São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil
| | - André Zelanis
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Institute of Science and Technology, Federal University of São Paulo, São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil
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Zorina II, Avrova NF, Zakharova IO, Shpakov AO. Prospects for the Use of Intranasally Administered Insulin and Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 in Cerebral Ischemia. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2023; 88:374-391. [PMID: 37076284 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923030070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Current approaches to the treatment of stroke have significant limitations, and neuroprotective therapy is ineffective. In view of this, searching for effective neuroprotectors and developing new neuroprotective strategies remain a pressing topic in research of cerebral ischemia. Insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) play a key role in the brain functioning by regulating the growth, differentiation, and survival of neurons, neuronal plasticity, food intake, peripheral metabolism, and endocrine functions. Insulin and IGF-1 produce multiple effects in the brain, including neuroprotective action in cerebral ischemia and stroke. Experiments in animals and cell cultures have shown that under hypoxic conditions, insulin and IGF-1 improve energy metabolism in neurons and glial cells, promote blood microcirculation in the brain, restore nerve cell functions and neurotransmission, and produce the anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects on brain cells. The intranasal route of insulin and IGF-1 administration is of particular interest in the clinical practice, since it allows controlled delivery of these hormones directly to the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Intranasally administered insulin alleviated cognitive impairments in elderly people with neurodegenerative and metabolic disorders; intranasally administered insulin and IGF-1 promoted survival of animals with ischemic stroke. The review discusses the published data and results of our own studies on the mechanisms of neuroprotective action of intranasally administered insulin and IGF-1 in cerebral ischemia, as well as the prospects of using these hormones for normalization of CNS functions and reduction of neurodegenerative changes in this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inna I Zorina
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, 194223, Russia.
| | - Natalia F Avrova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, 194223, Russia
| | - Irina O Zakharova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, 194223, Russia
| | - Alexander O Shpakov
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint-Petersburg, 194223, Russia
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4
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Silva-Reis SC, Sampaio-Dias IE, Costa VM, Correia XC, Costa-Almeida HF, García-Mera X, Rodríguez-Borges JE. Concise Overview of Glypromate Neuropeptide Research: From Chemistry to Pharmacological Applications in Neurosciences. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:554-572. [PMID: 36735764 PMCID: PMC9936549 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) pose a serious health concern worldwide, with a particular incidence in developed countries as a result of life expectancy increase and the absence of restorative treatments. Presently, treatments for these neurological conditions are focused on managing the symptoms and/or slowing down their progression. As so, the research on novel neuroprotective drugs is of high interest. Glypromate (glycyl-l-prolyl-l-glutamic acid, also known as GPE), an endogenous small peptide widespread in the brain, holds great promise to tackle neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's, s well as other CNS-related disorders like Rett and Down's syndromes. However, the limited pharmacokinetic properties of Glypromate hinder its clinical application. As such, intense research has been devoted to leveraging the pharmacokinetic profile of this neuropeptide. This review aims to offer an updated perspective on Glypromate research by exploring the vast array of chemical derivatizations of more than 100 analogs described in the literature over the past two decades. The collection and discussion of the most relevant structure-activity relationships will hopefully guide the discovery of new Glypromate-based neuroprotective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara C. Silva-Reis
- LAQV/REQUIMTE,
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University
of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal,UCIBIO/REQUIMTE,
Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ivo E. Sampaio-Dias
- LAQV/REQUIMTE,
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University
of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal,
| | - Vera M. Costa
- UCIBIO/REQUIMTE,
Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal,Associate
Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Xavier Cruz Correia
- LAQV/REQUIMTE,
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University
of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Hugo F. Costa-Almeida
- LAQV/REQUIMTE,
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University
of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Xerardo García-Mera
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, E-15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - José E. Rodríguez-Borges
- LAQV/REQUIMTE,
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University
of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
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Guan J, Li F, Kang D, Anderson T, Pitcher T, Dalrymple-Alford J, Shorten P, Singh-Mallah G. Cyclic Glycine-Proline (cGP) Normalises Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) Function: Clinical Significance in the Ageing Brain and in Age-Related Neurological Conditions. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031021. [PMID: 36770687 PMCID: PMC9919809 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) function declines with age and is associated with brain ageing and the progression of age-related neurological conditions. The reversible binding of IGF-1 to IGF binding protein (IGFBP)-3 regulates the amount of bioavailable, functional IGF-1 in circulation. Cyclic glycine-proline (cGP), a metabolite from the binding site of IGF-1, retains its affinity for IGFBP-3 and competes against IGF-1 for IGFBP-3 binding. Thus, cGP and IGFBP-3 collectively regulate the bioavailability of IGF-1. The molar ratio of cGP/IGF-1 represents the amount of bioavailable and functional IGF-1 in circulation. The cGP/IGF-1 molar ratio is low in patients with age-related conditions, including hypertension, stroke, and neurological disorders with cognitive impairment. Stroke patients with a higher cGP/IGF-1 molar ratio have more favourable clinical outcomes. The elderly with more cGP have better memory retention. An increase in the cGP/IGF-1 molar ratio with age is associated with normal cognition, whereas a decrease in this ratio with age is associated with dementia in Parkinson disease. In addition, cGP administration reduces systolic blood pressure, improves memory, and aids in stroke recovery. These clinical and experimental observations demonstrate the role of cGP in regulating IGF-1 function and its potential clinical applications in age-related brain diseases as a plasma biomarker for-and an intervention to improve-IGF-1 function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Guan
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Brain Research New Zealand, The Centre for Research Excellent, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
- The cGP Lab Limited New Zealand, Auckland 1021, New Zealand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +64-9-923-6134
| | - Fengxia Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510075, China
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Dali Kang
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
- Brain Research New Zealand, The Centre for Research Excellent, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
- Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang 110034, China
| | - Tim Anderson
- New Zealand Brain Research Institute, Christchurch 4710, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
- Department of Neurology, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch 4710, New Zealand
| | - Toni Pitcher
- New Zealand Brain Research Institute, Christchurch 4710, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
- Department of Neurology, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch 4710, New Zealand
| | - John Dalrymple-Alford
- Department of Neurology, Canterbury District Health Board, Christchurch 4710, New Zealand
- Department of Psychology, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 4710, New Zealand
| | - Paul Shorten
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand
- Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand
| | - Gagandeep Singh-Mallah
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
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Cyclic Glycine-Proline Improves Memory and Reduces Amyloid Plaque Load in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 2023:1753791. [PMID: 36909366 PMCID: PMC9995210 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1753791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition that is pathologically characterized by the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Animal models of AD have been useful in understanding the disease process and in investigating the effects of compounds on pathology and behavior. APP/PS1 mice develop amyloid plaques and show memory impairment. Cyclic glycine-proline (cGP) is a cyclic dipeptide that is likely produced from a tripeptide, glycine-proline-glutamate, which itself is generated after proteolytic cleavage of insulin-like growth factor-1. Here, we show that cGP improves spatial memory and reduces amyloid plaque burden in APP/PS1 mice. The results thus suggest that cGP could potentially provide beneficial effects in AD.
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7
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Grimm NB, Lee JT. Selective Xi reactivation and alternative methods to restore MECP2 function in Rett syndrome. Trends Genet 2022; 38:920-943. [PMID: 35248405 PMCID: PMC9915138 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The human X-chromosome harbors only 4% of our genome but carries over 20% of genes associated with intellectual disability. Given that they inherit only one X-chromosome, males are more frequently affected by X-linked neurodevelopmental genetic disorders than females. However, despite inheriting two X-chromosomes, females can also be affected because X-chromosome inactivation enables only one of two X-chromosomes to be expressed per cell. For Rett syndrome and similar X-linked disorders affecting females, disease-specific treatments have remained elusive. However, a cure may be found within their own cells because every sick cell carries a healthy copy of the affected gene on the inactive X (Xi). Therefore, selective Xi reactivation may be a viable approach that would address the root cause of various X-linked disorders. Here, we discuss Rett syndrome and compare current approaches in the pharmaceutical pipeline to restore MECP2 function. We then focus on Xi reactivation and review available methods, lessons learned, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas-Benedikt Grimm
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeannie T Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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IGF-1 as a Potential Therapy for Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020505. [PMID: 35203722 PMCID: PMC8962315 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the effects of growth hormone (GH) therapy on spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) have been examined in transgenic SCA3 mice, it still poses a nonnegligible risk of cancer when used for a long term. This study investigated the efficacy of IGF-1, a downstream mediator of GH, in vivo for SCA3 treatment. IGF-1 (50 mg/kg) or saline, once a week, was intraperitoneally injected to SCA3 84Q transgenic mice harboring a human ATXN3 gene with a pathogenic expanded 84 cytosine–adenine–guanine (CAG) repeat motif at 9 months of age. Compared with the control mice harboring a 15 CAG repeat motif, the SCA3 84Q mice treated with IGF-1 for 9 months exhibited the improvement only in locomotor function and minimized degeneration of the cerebellar cortex as indicated by the survival of more Purkinje cells with a more favorable mitochondrial function along with a decrease in oxidative stress caused by DNA damage. These findings could be attributable to the inhibition of mitochondrial fission, resulting in mitochondrial fusion, and decreased immunofluorescence staining in aggresome formation and ataxin-3 mutant protein levels, possibly through the enhancement of autophagy. The findings of this study show the therapeutic potential effect of IGF-1 injection for SCA3 to prevent the exacerbation of disease progress.
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Singh-Mallah G, Ardalan M, Kang D, Singh K, McMahon CD, Mallard C, Guan J. Administration of cyclic glycine-proline during infancy improves adult spatial memory, astrocyte plasticity, vascularization and GluR-1 expression in rats. Nutr Neurosci 2021; 25:2517-2527. [PMID: 34565308 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2021.1980845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic glycine-proline (cGP) is a natural nutrient of breast milk and plays a role in regulating the function of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 function is essential for post-natal brain development and adult cognitive function. We evaluated the effects of cGP on spatial memory and histological changes in the hippocampus of the adult rats following infancy administration. Infant rats were treated with either cGP or saline between post-natal days 8 and 22 via oral administration to lactating dams. The spatial memory was evaluated between post-natal days 70 and 75 using Morris water maze tests. The changes of capillaries, astrocytes, synaptophysin and glutamate receptor-1 were examined in the CA1 stratum radiatum of the hippocampus. Compared to saline-treated group, cGP-treated group showed higher path efficiency of entry and lower average heading errors to the platform zone. cGP-treated group also showed longer, larger and more astrocytic processes, more capillaries and higher glutamate receptor-1 expression. The rats made less average heading error to the platform zone have more capillaries, larger and longer astrocytic branches. Thus cGP treatment/supplementation during infancy moderately improved adulthood spatial memory. This long-lasting effect of cGP on memory could be mediated via promoting astrocytic plasticity, vascularization and glutamate trafficking. Therefore, cGP may have a role in regulating IGF-1 function during brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Singh-Mallah
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand.,Gravida, National Centre for Growth and Development, Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Liggins Institute, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maryam Ardalan
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Dali Kang
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kuljeet Singh
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand.,Gravida, National Centre for Growth and Development, Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Christopher D McMahon
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand.,Gravida, National Centre for Growth and Development, Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Carina Mallard
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jian Guan
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Gravida, National Centre for Growth and Development, Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Gascon S, Jann J, Langlois-Blais C, Plourde M, Lavoie C, Faucheux N. Peptides Derived from Growth Factors to Treat Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116071. [PMID: 34199883 PMCID: PMC8200100 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive neuron losses in memory-related brain structures. The classical features of AD are a dysregulation of the cholinergic system, the accumulation of amyloid plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles. Unfortunately, current treatments are unable to cure or even delay the progression of the disease. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies have emerged, such as the exogenous administration of neurotrophic factors (e.g., NGF and BDNF) that are deficient or dysregulated in AD. However, their low capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier and their exorbitant cost currently limit their use. To overcome these limitations, short peptides mimicking the binding receptor sites of these growth factors have been developed. Such peptides can target selective signaling pathways involved in neuron survival, differentiation, and/or maintenance. This review focuses on growth factors and their derived peptides as potential treatment for AD. It describes (1) the physiological functions of growth factors in the brain, their neuronal signaling pathways, and alteration in AD; (2) the strategies to develop peptides derived from growth factor and their capacity to mimic the role of native proteins; and (3) new advancements and potential in using these molecules as therapeutic treatments for AD, as well as their limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Gascon
- Laboratory of Cell-Biomaterial Biohybrid Systems, Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering, 2500 Boulevard Université, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (S.G.); (J.J.)
| | - Jessica Jann
- Laboratory of Cell-Biomaterial Biohybrid Systems, Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering, 2500 Boulevard Université, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (S.G.); (J.J.)
| | - Chloé Langlois-Blais
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
| | - Mélanie Plourde
- Centre de Recherche sur le Vieillissement, Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et Services Sociaux de l’Estrie–Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1G 1B1, Canada;
- Département de Médecine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada
| | - Christine Lavoie
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
- Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, 3001 12th Avenue, N., Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (N.F.); Tel.: +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 72732) (C.L.); +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 61343) (N.F.)
| | - Nathalie Faucheux
- Laboratory of Cell-Biomaterial Biohybrid Systems, Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering, 2500 Boulevard Université, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (S.G.); (J.J.)
- Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, 3001 12th Avenue, N., Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (N.F.); Tel.: +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 72732) (C.L.); +1-819-821-8000 (ext. 61343) (N.F.)
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Tack L, Bracke N, Verbeke F, Wynendaele E, Pauwels E, Maes A, Van de Wiele C, Sathekge M, De Spiegeleer B. Biological Characterisation of Somatropin-Derived Cryptic Peptides. Int J Pept Res Ther 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-018-9749-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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12
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Lewitt MS, Boyd GW. The Role of Insulin-Like Growth Factors and Insulin-Like Growth Factor-Binding Proteins in the Nervous System. BIOCHEMISTRY INSIGHTS 2019; 12:1178626419842176. [PMID: 31024217 PMCID: PMC6472167 DOI: 10.1177/1178626419842176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factors (IGF-I and IGF-II) and their receptors are widely expressed in nervous tissue from early embryonic life. They also cross the blood brain barriers by active transport, and their regulation as endocrine factors therefore differs from other tissues. In brain, IGFs have paracrine and autocrine actions that are modulated by IGF-binding proteins and interact with other growth factor signalling pathways. The IGF system has roles in nervous system development and maintenance. There is substantial evidence for a specific role for this system in some neurodegenerative diseases, and neuroprotective actions make this system an attractive target for new therapeutic approaches. In developing new therapies, interaction with IGF-binding proteins and other growth factor signalling pathways should be considered. This evidence is reviewed, gaps in knowledge are highlighted, and recommendations are made for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moira S Lewitt
- School of Health & Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, UK
| | - Gary W Boyd
- School of Health & Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, UK
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Treating Rett syndrome: from mouse models to human therapies. Mamm Genome 2019; 30:90-110. [PMID: 30820643 PMCID: PMC6606665 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-019-09793-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Rare diseases are very difficult to study mechanistically and to develop therapies for because of the scarcity of patients. Here, the rare neuro-metabolic disorder Rett syndrome (RTT) is discussed as a prototype for precision medicine, demonstrating how mouse models have led to an understanding of the development of symptoms. RTT is caused by mutations in the X-linked gene methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). Mecp2-mutant mice are being used in preclinical studies that target the MECP2 gene directly, or its downstream pathways. Importantly, this work may improve the health of RTT patients. Clinical presentation may vary widely among individuals based on their mutation, but also because of the degree of X chromosome inactivation and the presence of modifier genes. Because it is a complex disorder involving many organ systems, it is likely that recovery of RTT patients will involve a combination of treatments. Precision medicine is warranted to provide the best efficacy to individually treat RTT patients.
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Marinelli L, Fornasari E, Di Stefano A, Turkez H, Genovese S, Epifano F, Di Biase G, Costantini E, D'Angelo C, Reale M, Cacciatore I. Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel analogues of Gly-l-Pro-l-Glu (GPE) as neuroprotective agents. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2018; 29:194-198. [PMID: 30522955 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2018.11.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of novel pseudotripeptides (GPE 1-3) as potential candidates to counteract neuroinflammation processes in Alzheimer's disease. GPE 1-3 pseudotripeptides are synthetic derivatives of Gly-l-Pro-l-Glu (GPE), the N-terminal tripeptide of IGF-1, obtained through the introduction of isosteres of the amidic bond (aminomethylene unit) to increase the metabolic stability of the native tripeptide. The results showed that all synthetic derivatives possessed higher half-lives (t1/2 > 4 h) than GPE (t1/2 = 30 min) in human plasma and had good water solubility. The biological results demonstrated that GPE 1-3 had protective properties in several experimental models of treated THP-1 cells. Notably, the novel pseudotripeptides influenced inflammatory cytokine expression (IL-1β, IL-18, and TNF-α) in Aβ25-35-, PMA-, and LPS-treated THP-1 cells. In PMA-differentiated THP-1 macrophages, both GPE 1 and GPE 3 reduced the expression levels of all selected cyto-chemokines, even though GPE 3 showed the best neuroprotective properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Marinelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Erika Fornasari
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Stefano
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Hasan Turkez
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy; Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Erzurum Technical University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Salvatore Genovese
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Francesco Epifano
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Biase
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Erica Costantini
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Science, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Chiara D'Angelo
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Science, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Marcella Reale
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Science, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Ivana Cacciatore
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
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15
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Lacivita E, Perrone R, Margari L, Leopoldo M. Targets for Drug Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Challenges and Future Directions. J Med Chem 2017; 60:9114-9141. [PMID: 29039668 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b00965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. Various factors are involved in the etiopathogenesis of ASD, including genetic factors, environmental toxins and stressors, impaired immune responses, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. The heterogeneity in the phenotype among ASD patients and the complex etiology of the condition have long impeded the advancement of the development of pharmacological therapies. In the recent years, the integration of findings from mouse models to human genetics resulted in considerable progress toward the understanding of ASD pathophysiology. Currently, strategies to treat core symptoms of ASD are directed to correct synaptic dysfunctions, abnormalities in central oxytocin, vasopressin, and serotonin neurotransmission, and neuroinflammation. Here, we present a survey of the studies that have suggested molecular targets for drug development for ASD and the state-of-the-art of medicinal chemistry efforts in related areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enza Lacivita
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro , via Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Perrone
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro , via Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Margari
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche di Base, Neuroscienze e Organi di Senso, Unità di Neuropsichiatria Infantile, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro , Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Marcello Leopoldo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro , via Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy
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16
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Deacon RMJ, Hurley MJ, Rebolledo CM, Snape M, Altimiras FJ, Farías L, Pino M, Biekofsky R, Glass L, Cogram P. Retracted: Nrf2: a novel therapeutic target in fragile X syndrome is modulated by NNZ2566. GENES, BRAIN, AND BEHAVIOR 2017; 16:739. [PMID: 28211606 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Retraction: "Nrf2: a novel therapeutic target in fragile X syndrome is modulated by NNZ2566" by R. M. J. Deacon, M. J. Hurley, C. M. Rebolledo, M. Snape, F. J. Altimiras, L. Farías, M. Pino, R. Biekofsky, L. Glass and P. Cogram. The above article, from Genes, Brain and Behavior, published online on 12th May 2017 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the journal Editor in Chief, Andrew Holmes and John Wiley & Sons Ltd. The retraction has been agreed as all authors cannot agree on a revised author order, and at least one author continues to dispute the original order. In this case, the original article is being retracted on the grounds that the journal does not have permission to publish. Reference: Deacon, R. M. J., Hurley, M. J., Rebolledo, C. M., Snape, M., Altimiras, F. J., Farías, L., Pino, M., Biekofsky, R., Glass, L. and Cogram, P. (2017), Nrf2: a novel therapeutic target in fragile X syndrome is modulated by NNZ2566. Genes, Brain and Behavior. doi:10.1111/gbb.12373.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M J Deacon
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Gen.DDI Ltd, London, UK
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience (INCyT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M J Hurley
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience (INCyT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Division of Brain Sciences, Centre for Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - C M Rebolledo
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Snape
- AMO Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Huntingdon, UK
| | - F J Altimiras
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile
| | - L Farías
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Pino
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - L Glass
- Neuren Pharmaceuticals, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - P Cogram
- Biomedicine Division, Centre for Systems Biotechnology, Fraunhofer Research Foundation, Santiago, Chile
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropsychiatry, Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience (INCyT), INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Institute Of Ecology and Biodiversity (IEB), Faculty of Science, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Chandrasekaran S, Akbarian S. Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 for Healthy Spines and Healthy Minds? Biol Psychiatry 2016; 80:260-262. [PMID: 27468627 PMCID: PMC5522745 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Chandrasekaran
- Department of Psychiatry, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; PhD Program in Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Schahram Akbarian
- Department of Psychiatry, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.
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18
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Costales J, Kolevzon A. The therapeutic potential of insulin-like growth factor-1 in central nervous system disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 63:207-22. [PMID: 26780584 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) development is a finely tuned process that relies on multiple factors and intricate pathways to ensure proper neuronal differentiation, maturation, and connectivity. Disruption of this process can cause significant impairments in CNS functioning and lead to debilitating disorders that impact motor and language skills, behavior, and cognitive functioning. Recent studies focused on understanding the underlying cellular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders have identified a crucial role for insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in normal CNS development. Work in model systems has demonstrated rescue of pathophysiological and behavioral abnormalities when IGF-1 is administered, and several clinical studies have shown promise of efficacy in disorders of the CNS, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this review, we explore the molecular pathways and downstream effects of IGF-1 and summarize the results of completed and ongoing pre-clinical and clinical trials using IGF-1 as a pharmacologic intervention in various CNS disorders. This aim of this review is to provide evidence for the potential of IGF-1 as a treatment for neurodevelopmental disorders and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Kolevzon
- Department of Psychiatry, United States; Department of Pediatrics, United States; Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, United States; Friedman Brain Institute, United States; Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.
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19
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Guan J, Harris P, Brimble M, Lei Y, Lu J, Yang Y, Gunn AJ. The role for IGF-1-derived small neuropeptides as a therapeutic target for neurological disorders. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2015; 19:785-93. [PMID: 25652713 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2015.1010514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exogenous IGF-1 protects the brain from ischemic injury and improves function. However, its clinical application to neurological disorders is limited by its large molecular size, poor central uptake and mitogenic potential. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors have discussed the efficacy, pharmacokinetics and mechanisms of IGF-1 derivatives on protecting acute brain injury, preventing memory impairment and improving recovery from neurological degenerative conditions evaluated in various animal models. We have included natural metabolites of IGF-1, glycine-proline-glutamate (GPE), cleaved from N-terminal IGF-1 and cyclic glycine-proline (cGP) as well as the structural analogues of GPE and cGP, glycine-2-methyl-proline-glutamate and cyclo-l-glycyl-l-2-allylproline, respectively. In addition, the regulatory role for cGP in bioavailability of IGF-1 has also been discussed. EXPERT OPINION These small neuropeptides provide effective neuroprotection by offering an improved pharmacokinetic profile and more practical route of administration compared with IGF-1 administration. Developing modified neuropeptides to overcome the limitations of their endogenous counterparts represents a novel strategy of pharmaceutical discovery for neurological disorders. The mechanism of action may involve a regulation of IGF-1 bioavailability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Guan
- University of Auckland, Liggins Institute , Private Bag 92019, Auckland , New Zealand +64 93 737 599 ext. 86134 ; +64 93 082 385 ;
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20
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Deacon RMJ, Glass L, Snape M, Hurley MJ, Altimiras FJ, Biekofsky RR, Cogram P. NNZ-2566, a Novel Analog of (1–3) IGF-1, as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Fragile X Syndrome. Neuromolecular Med 2015; 17:71-82. [DOI: 10.1007/s12017-015-8341-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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21
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Qian S, Wang Q, Zuo Z. Improved brain uptake of peptide-based CNS drugs via alternative routes of administrations of its nanocarrier delivery systems: a promising strategy for CNS targeting delivery of peptides. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2014; 10:1491-508. [DOI: 10.1517/17425255.2014.956080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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22
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Cyclic glycine-proline regulates IGF-1 homeostasis by altering the binding of IGFBP-3 to IGF-1. Sci Rep 2014; 4:4388. [PMID: 24633053 PMCID: PMC3955921 DOI: 10.1038/srep04388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The homeostasis of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is essential for metabolism, development and survival. Insufficient IGF-1 is associated with poor recovery from wounds whereas excessive IGF-1 contributes to growth of tumours. We have shown that cyclic glycine-proline (cGP), a metabolite of IGF-1, can normalise IGF-1 function by showing its efficacy in improving the recovery from ischemic brain injury in rats and inhibiting the growth of lymphomic tumours in mice. Further investigation in cell culture suggested that cGP promoted the activity of IGF-1 when it was insufficient, but inhibited the activity of IGF-1 when it was excessive. Mathematical modelling revealed that the efficacy of cGP was a modulated IGF-1 effect via changing the binding of IGF-1 to its binding proteins, which dynamically regulates the balance between bioavailable and non-bioavailable IGF-1. Our data reveal a novel mechanism of auto-regulation of IGF-1, which has physiological and pathophysiological consequences and potential pharmacological utility.
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23
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Filippo TRM, Galindo LT, Barnabe GF, Ariza CB, Mello LE, Juliano MA, Juliano L, Porcionatto MA. CXCL12 N-terminal end is sufficient to induce chemotaxis and proliferation of neural stem/progenitor cells. Stem Cell Res 2013; 11:913-25. [PMID: 23851289 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2013.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2012] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural stem/progenitor cells (NSC) respond to injury after brain injuries secreting IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-10, as well as chemokine members of the CC and CXC ligand families. CXCL12 is one of the chemokines secreted at an injury site and is known to attract NSC-derived neuroblasts, cells that express CXCL12 receptor, CXCR4. Activation of CXCR4 by CXCL12 depends on two domains located at the N-terminal of the chemokine. In the present work we aimed to investigate if the N-terminal end of CXCL12, where CXCR4 binding and activation domains are located, was sufficient to induce NSC-derived neuroblast chemotaxis. Our data show that a synthetic peptide analogous to the first 21 amino acids of the N-terminal end of CXCL12, named PepC-C (KPVSLSYRCPCRFFESHIARA), is able to promote chemotaxis of neuroblasts in vivo, and stimulate chemotaxis and proliferation of CXCR4+ cells in vitro, without affecting NSC fate. We also show that PepC-C upregulates CXCL12 expression in vivo and in vitro. We suggest the N-terminal end of CXCL12 is responsible for a positive feedback loop to maintain a gradient of CXCL12 that attracts neuroblasts from the subventricular zone into an injury site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais R M Filippo
- Department of Biochemistry, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil
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24
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Insulin-like growth factor and the etiology of autism. Med Hypotheses 2013; 80:475-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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25
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Son SJ, Brimble MA, Yang S, Harris PWR, Reddingius T, Muir BW, Hutt OE, Waddington L, Guan J, Savage GP. Synthesis and Self-Assembly of a Peptide - Amphiphile as a Drug Delivery Vehicle. Aust J Chem 2013. [DOI: 10.1071/ch12347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The formation of functional liposomes by the self assembly of a peptide–amphiphile that comprises the neuroprotective tripeptide motif glycyl-prolyl-glutamic acid linked to a hydrophobic moiety is reported. The self-assembled peptide–lipid conjugate displays long range order and can be dispersed as nanometre sized particles.
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Corvin AP, Molinos I, Little G, Donohoe G, Gill M, Morris DW, Tropea D. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and its active peptide (1–3)IGF1 enhance the expression of synaptic markers in neuronal circuits through different cellular mechanisms. Neurosci Lett 2012; 520:51-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2012.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Revised: 05/02/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Yasmin H, Shibata T, Rahman MS, Kabashima T, Kai M. Selective and sensitive determination of peptides using 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid as a fluorogenic reagent. Anal Chim Acta 2012; 721:162-6. [PMID: 22405315 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2012.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A novel fluorescence (FL) reaction for N-terminal Gly-containing peptides has been developed using 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (3,4-DHPAA). The reaction of the peptides with 3,4-DHPAA was carried out in borate buffer (pH 8.0) in the presence of sodium periodate at 37°C for 10 min, and the FL was measured with a spectrofluorimeter at the excitation and emission wavelengths of 370 nm and 465 nm, respectively. The 3,4-DHPAA reagent generated particularly strong FL for peptides containing Gly at their N-termini. When various other bio-substances, such as amino acids, sugars, nucleic bases, nucleotides, and proteins, were reacted with 3,4-DHPAA, no FL was observed. Under optimized reaction conditions, the lower detection limit of 0.25 μmol L(-1) was obtained for the N-terminal Gly-containing peptides of Gly-Pro (GP) and Gly-Pro-Pro (GPP), which gave 3 times greater FL intensity than that observed for the reagent blank. The proposed reaction with 3,4-DHPAA as a fluorogenic reagent is selective and sensitive for the detection of N-terminal Gly-containing peptides, and therefore, this method could be a useful tool for the determination of these particular oligopeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasina Yasmin
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Japan
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28
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Minelli A, Conte C, Cacciatore I, Cornacchia C, Pinnen F. Molecular mechanism underlying the cerebral effect of Gly-Pro-Glu tripeptide bound to L-dopa in a Parkinson's animal model. Amino Acids 2012; 43:1359-67. [PMID: 22218995 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-011-1210-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a critical contributing factor to neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, the inhibition of ROS formation, responsible for chronic detrimental neuroinflammation, is an important strategy for preventing the neurodegenerative disease and for neuroprotective therapy. Gly-Pro-Glu (GPE) is the N-terminal tripeptide of insulin-like growth factor-I, which is naturally cleaved in the plasma and brain tissues. GPE has neuroprotective effects since it crosses the blood-CSF and the functional CSF-brain barriers and binds to glial cells. It has been shown that GPE improves motor behaviour in rats after 6-OHDA lesion, although it does not rescue dopaminergic neurons. Thus, we hypothesized that the GPE therapeutic efficacy in a Parkinson model might be improved by combining GPE to L: -dopa. Here, we used an animal model that represents a progressive chronic Parkinson's disease (PD) model, characterized by high levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. We showed that the co-drug, in which L: -dopa is covalently linked to the GPE tripeptide, by down-regulating the expression of inflammatory genes, decreases the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced inflammatory response and, by up-regulating tyrosine hydroxylase, reduces MPTP-induced neurotoxicity. Furthermore, by determining the nuclear translocation/activation of Nrf2 and NF-κB, we showed that systemic administration of the co-drug activates Nrf2-induced antioxidant response while suppressing NF-κB inflammatory pathway. Data suggest that the binding of L: -dopa to GPE tripeptide might represent a promising strategy to supply L: -dopa to parkinsonian patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Minelli
- Dipartimento Medicina Sperimentale Scienze Biochimiche, Sezione Biochimica Cellulare, Università di Perugia, Via del Giochetto, Perugia, Italy.
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Kakoi C, Udo H, Matsukawa T, Ohnuki K. Collagen peptides enhance hippocampal neurogenesis and reduce anxietyrelated behavior in mice. Biomed Res 2012; 33:273-9. [DOI: 10.2220/biomedres.33.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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30
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Landi S, Putignano E, Boggio EM, Giustetto M, Pizzorusso T, Ratto GM. The short-time structural plasticity of dendritic spines is altered in a model of Rett syndrome. Sci Rep 2011; 1:45. [PMID: 22355564 PMCID: PMC3216532 DOI: 10.1038/srep00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The maturation of excitatory transmission comes about through a developmental period in which dendritic spines are highly motile and their number, form and size are rapidly changing. Surprisingly, although these processes are crucial for the formation of cortical circuitry, little is known about possible alterations of these processes in brain disease. By means of acute in vivo 2-photon imaging we show that the dynamic properties of dendritic spines of layer V cortical neurons are deeply affected in a mouse model of Rett syndrome (RTT) at a time around P25 when the neuronal phenotype of the disease is still mild. Then, we show that 24h after a subcutaneous injection of IGF-1 spine dynamics is restored. Our study demonstrates that spine dynamics in RTT mice is severely impaired early during development and suggest that treatments for RTT should be started very early in order to reestablish a normal period of spine plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Landi
- NEST, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy; NEST Institute Nanoscience CNR, Pisa, Italy
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Liu Z, Liu H, Yang X, Xu X, Zhang W, Li Z. Effects of insulin-like growth factor-1 on expression of sensory neuropeptides in cultured dorsal root ganglion neurons in the absence or presence of glutamate. Int J Neurosci 2011; 120:698-702. [PMID: 20942583 DOI: 10.3109/00207454.2010.513463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is a neurotrophic factor and plays an important role in promoting axonal growth from dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Whether IGF-1 could influence expression of sensory neuropeptides substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) of the cultured DRG neurons with excitotoxicity induced by glutamate (Glu) remains unknown. In the present study, primary cultured DRG neurons were used to determine the effects of IGF-1 on expression of SP and CGRP of the neurons with Glu-induced excitotoxicity. The DRG neurons were dissociated and cultured for 48 hr and then exposed to Glu (0.2 mmol/L), IGF-1 (20 nmol/L), and Glu (0.2 mmol/L) plus IGF-1 (20 nmol/L) for additional 12 hr. The DRG neurons were continuously exposed to growth media as control. After that, all the above cultured DRG neurons were processed for detecting SP and CGRP expression by Western blot analysis. The expression of SP and CGRP increased significantly in primary cultured DRG neurons in the presence of IGF-1. The ability of IGF-1 on SP and CGRP expression may play a role in neurogenic inflammation or nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, China
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Xiang Y, Ding N, Xing Z, Zhang W, Liu H, Li Z. Insulin-like growth factor-1 regulates neurite outgrowth and neuronal migration from organotypic cultured dorsal root ganglion. Int J Neurosci 2010; 121:101-6. [PMID: 21110707 DOI: 10.3109/00207454.2010.535935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is a neurotrophic factor and plays an important role in promoting axonal growth from neurons. Whether IGF-1 could promote neurite outgrowth and neuronal migration of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants in vitro remains unknown. In the present study, organotypic rat DRG explant culture model was established. Using this unique culture system, outgrowth of neurites from the peripheral nerve attached to DRG explant and migration of neurons from DRG explant to the peripheral area were quantified in the presence (5 nmol/L, 10 nmol/L, 20 nmol/L) or absence of IGF-1. The number of nerve fiber bundles extended from DRG explant increased significantly in the presence of IGF-1 (5 nmol/L, 19.25 ± 3.11, p < .05; 10 nmol/L, 20.92 ± 2.31, p < .01; 20 nmol/L, 23.00 ± 4.09, p < .001) as compared with that in the absence of IGF-1 (16.58 ± 2.94). The number of neurons migrated from DRG explant increased significantly in the presence of IGF-1 (5 nmol/L, 104.08 ± 16.70, p < .05; 10 nmol/L, 115.25 ± 13.68, p < .001; 20 nmol/L, 138.75 ± 18.05, p < .001) as compared with that in the absence of IGF-1 (90.25 ± 8.53). These data implicated that IGF-1 could promote neurite outgrowth and neuronal migration from DRG explants in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujuan Xiang
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, China
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Janowitz T, Menon DK. Exploring new routes for neuroprotective drug development in traumatic brain injury. Sci Transl Med 2010; 2:27rv1. [PMID: 20393189 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3000330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity with a substantial predicted increase in incidence. Despite an obvious need, there are no pharmacological treatment options for TBI because translation of neuroprotection from preclinical studies to clinical practice has so far failed. Here, we identify potential causes for this failure. We suggest that the monitoring and investigation tools that are commonly used in patients with TBI may provide an experimental medicine route to facilitate a more rational approach to translational research. This suggestion is underpinned by existing research data on disease biology, drug delivery, and treatment response obtained with these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Janowitz
- Department of Medicine, Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 2QQ, UK
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Gong HC, Yang XD, Liu Z, Xing ZY, Wang HJ, Li ZZ. Regulatory effects of insulin-like growth factor-1 on the expression of sensory neuropeptide mRNAs in cultured dorsal root ganglion neurons with excitotoxicity induced by glutamate. Neurosci Bull 2010; 26:126-32. [PMID: 20332817 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-010-9142-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on the expression of preprotachykinin (PPT) mRNA encoding substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) mRNA in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons with excitotoxicity induced by glutamate (Glu). METHODS DRGs were dissected from embryonic day 15 Wistar rats. DRG neurons were dissociated and cultured for 48 h and then exposed to Glu (0.2 mmol/L) or Glu (0.2 mmol/L) plus IGF-1 (5 nmol/L, 10 nmol/L and 20 nmol/L) for 12 h. The DRG neurons in control group were exposed to only growth media throughout the experiment. After that, the living DRG neurons were observed under inverted phase contrast microscope and microphotographs were taken. The expression levels of PPT and CGRP mRNAs were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS IGF-1 could inhibit Glu-induced shortening of neurite. Besides, IGF-1 could significantly increase the levels of PPT mRNA and CGRP mRNA in primary cultured DRG neurons with Glu-induced excitotoxicity, in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSION IGF-1 may exert neuroprotective effects on DRG neurons against Glu-induced excitotoxicity, probably through regulating the expression levels of PPT and CGRP mRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Cui Gong
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan 250012, China
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Guan J. Insulin-like growth factor -1 (IGF-1) derived neuropeptides, a novel strategy for the development of pharmaceuticals for managing ischemic brain injury. CNS Neurosci Ther 2010; 17:250-5. [PMID: 20236140 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2009.00128.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) is neuroprotective and improves long-term function after brain injury. However, its clinical application to neurological disorders is limited by its large molecular size, poor central uptake, and mitogenic potential. Glycine-proline-glutamate (GPE) is naturally cleaved from the IGF-1 N-terminal and is also neuroprotective after ischemic injury, thus providing a potential novel strategy of drug discovery for management of neurological disorders. GPE is not enzymatically stable, thus intravenous infusion of GPE becomes necessary for stable and potent neuroprotection. The broad effective dose range and treatment window of 3-7 h after the lesion suggest its potential for treating acute brain injuries. The neuroprotective action of GPE is not age selective, is not dependent on cerebral reperfusion, plasma glucose concentrations, and core body temperature. G-2mPE, a GPE analogue designed to be more resistant to enzymatic activity, has a prolonged plasma half-life and is more potent in neuroprotection. Neuroprotection by GPE and its analogue may be involved in modulation of inflammation, promotion of astrocytosis, inhibition of apoptosis, and in vascular remodeling. Small neuropeptides have advantages over growth factors in the treatment of brain injury, and modified neuropeptides, designed to overcome the limitations of their endogenous counterparts, represent a novel strategy of pharmaceutical discovery for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Guan
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, New Zealand.
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NNZ-2566, a glypromate analog, attenuates brain ischemia-induced non-convulsive seizures in rats. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2009; 29:1924-32. [PMID: 19638995 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2009.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic and traumatic brain injuries often induce non-convulsive seizures (NCSs), which likely contribute to the worsening of neurological outcomes. Here, we evaluated the effect of glycyl-L-methylprolyl-L-glutamic acid (NNZ-2566) to lessen the severity of NCSs caused by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAo). Continuous electroencephalographic recordings were performed in rats during pMCAo. Glycyl-L-methylprolyl-L-glutamic acid (3, 10, or 100 mg/kg bolus followed by an infusion of a fixed dose of 3 mg/kg per hour for 12 h) was delivered at 20 mins after pMCAo (before the first NCS event) or delayed until immediately after the first NCS event occurred. Control rats received pMCAo and saline treatment. The results revealed that 91% of the saline-treated animals had NCSs (23 episodes per rat and 1238 secs per rat) with an onset latency of 35 mins after injury. When NNZ-2566 was administered before the NCS events, it dose-dependently reduced the NCS incidence to 36%-80%, decreased NCS frequency to 5-16 episodes per rat, and shortened the total duration of NCS to 251-706 secs per rat. The two high doses significantly reduced the infarct volume by 28%-30%. Delayed treatment also attenuated NCS duration but had no effect on the infarct volume. Results indicate that NNZ-2566 possesses a unique therapeutic potential as a safe prophylactic agent that synergistically provides neuroprotection and reduces injury-induced seizures.
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Lu XCM, Chen RW, Yao C, Wei H, Yang X, Liao Z, Dave JR, Tortella FC. NNZ-2566, a glypromate analog, improves functional recovery and attenuates apoptosis and inflammation in a rat model of penetrating ballistic-type brain injury. J Neurotrauma 2009; 26:141-54. [PMID: 19119917 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2008.0629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycine-proline-glutamate (GPE) is an N-terminal tripeptide endogenously cleaved from insulin-like growth factor-1 in the brain and is neuroprotective against hypoxic-ischemic brain injury and neurodegeneration. NNZ-2566 is an analog of GPE designed to have improved bioavailability. In this study, we tested NNZ-2566 in a rat model of penetrating ballistic-type brain injury (PBBI) and assessed its effects on injury-induced histopathology, behavioral deficits, and molecular and cellular events associated with inflammation and apoptosis. In the initial dose-response experiments, NNZ-2566 (0.01-3 mg/kg/h x 12 h intravenous infusion) was given at 30 min post-injury and the therapeutic time window was established by delaying treatments 2-4 h post-injury, but with the addition of a 10- or 30-mg/kg bolus dose. All animals survived 72 h. Neuroprotection was evaluated by balance beam testing and histopathology. The effects of NNZ-2566 on injury-induced changes in Bax and Bcl-2 proteins, activated microgliosis, neutrophil infiltration, and astrocyte reactivity were also examined. Behavioral results demonstrated that NNZ-2566 dose-dependently reduced foot faults by 19-66% after acute treatments, and 35-55% after delayed treatments. Although gross lesion volume was not affected, NNZ-2566 treatment significantly attenuated neutrophil infiltration and reduced the number of activated microglial cells in the peri-lesion regions of the PBBI. PBBI induced a significant upregulation in Bax expression (36%) and a concomitant downregulation in Bcl-2 expression (33%), both of which were significantly reversed by NNZ-2566. Collectively, these results demonstrated that NNZ-2566 treatment promoted functional recovery following PBBI, an effect related to the modulation of injury-induced neural inflammatory and apoptotic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Chun May Lu
- Department of Applied Neurobiology, Division of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research , Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA.
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Guan J, Gluckman PD. IGF-1 derived small neuropeptides and analogues: a novel strategy for the development of pharmaceuticals for neurological conditions. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 157:881-91. [PMID: 19438508 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00256.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is neuroprotective and improves long-term function after brain injury. However, its clinical application to neurological disorders is limited by its large molecular size, poor central uptake and mitogenic potential. Glycine-proline-glutamate (GPE) is naturally cleaved from the IGF-1 N-terminal and it is also neuroprotective after ischemic injury, which provided a novel strategy of drug discovery for neurological disorders. GPE is not enzymatically stable, thus intravenous infusion of GPE becomes necessary for stable and potent neuroprotection. The broad effective dose range and treatment window of 3-7 h after the lesion suggest its potential for treating acute brain injuries. G-2meth-PE, a GPE analogue designed to be more enzymatic resistant, has a prolonged plasma half-life and is more potent in neuroprotection. Neuroprotection by GPE and its analogue may involve modulation of inflammation, promotion of astrocytosis, inhibition of apoptosis and vascular remodelling. Acute administration of GPE also prevents 6-OHDA-induced nigrostrial dopamine depletion. Delayed treatment with GPE does not prevent dopamine loss, but improves long-term function. Cyclo-glycyl-proline (cyclic Gly-Pro) is an endogenous DKP that may be derived from GPE. Cyclic Gly-Pro and its analogue cyclo-L-glycyl-L-2-allylproline (NNZ 2591) are both neuroprotective after ischaemic injury. NNZ2591 is highly enzymatic resistant and centrally accessible. Its peripheral administration improves somatosensory-motor function and long-term histological outcome after brain injury. Our research suggests that small neuropeptides have advantages over growth factors in the treatment of brain injury, and that modified neuropeptides designed to overcome the limitations of their endogenous counterparts represent a novel strategy of pharmaceutical discovery for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Guan
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Partial reversal of Rett Syndrome-like symptoms in MeCP2 mutant mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2009; 106:2029-34. [PMID: 19208815 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0812394106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 414] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a severe form of X-linked mental retardation caused by mutations in the gene coding for methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). Mice deficient in MeCP2 have a range of physiological and neurological abnormalities that mimic the human syndrome. Here we show that systemic treatment of MeCP2 mutant mice with an active peptide fragment of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) extends the life span of the mice, improves locomotor function, ameliorates breathing patterns, and reduces irregularity in heart rate. In addition, treatment with IGF-1 peptide increases brain weight of the mutant mice. Multiple measurements support the hypothesis that RTT results from a deficit in synaptic maturation in the brain: MeCP2 mutant mice have sparse dendritic spines and reduced PSD-95 in motor cortex pyramidal neurons, reduced synaptic amplitude in the same neurons, and protracted cortical plasticity in vivo. Treatment with IGF-1 peptide partially restores spine density and synaptic amplitude, increases PSD-95, and stabilizes cortical plasticity to wild-type levels. Our results thus strongly suggest IGF-1 as a candidate for pharmacological treatment of RTT and potentially of other CNS disorders caused by delayed synapse maturation.
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NNZ-2566: A Gly–Pro–Glu analogue with neuroprotective efficacy in a rat model of acute focal stroke. J Neurol Sci 2009; 278:85-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2008.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2008] [Revised: 11/26/2008] [Accepted: 12/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Svedin P, Guan J, Mathai S, Zhang R, Wang X, Gustavsson M, Hagberg H, Mallard C. Delayed peripheral administration of a GPE analogue induces astrogliosis and angiogenesis and reduces inflammation and brain injury following hypoxia-ischemia in the neonatal rat. Dev Neurosci 2007; 29:393-402. [PMID: 17762207 DOI: 10.1159/000105480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2006] [Accepted: 01/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycine 2-methyl proline glutamate (G-2mPE) is a proline-modified analogue to the naturally existing N-terminal tripeptide glycine-proline-glutamate that is a cleaved product from insulin-like growth factor-1. G-2mPE is designed to be more enzymatically resistant than glycine-proline-glutamate and to increase its bioavailability. The current study has investigated the protective effects of G-2mPE following hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in the neonatal brain. On postnatal day 7, Wistar rats were exposed to hypoxia-ischemia (HI). HI was induced by unilateral ligation of the left carotid artery followed by hypoxia (7.7% O2, 36 degrees C) for 60 min. The drug treatment started 2 h after the insult, and the pups were given either 1.2 mg/kg (bolus), 1.2 mg/ml once a day for 7 days, or vehicle. The degree of brain damage was determined histochemically by thionin/acid fuchsin staining. G-2mPE's anti-inflammatory properties were investigated by IL-1beta, IL-6, and IL-18 ELISA, and effects on apoptosis by caspase 3 activity. Vascularization was determined immunohistochemically by the total length of isolectin-positive blood vessels. Effect on astrocytosis was also determined in the hippocampus. Animals treated with multiple doses of G-2mPE demonstrated reduced overall brain injury 7 days after HI, particularly in the hippocampus and thalamus compared to vehicle-treated rats. The expression of IL-6 was decreased in G-2mPE-treated animals compared to vehicle-treated pups, and both the capillary length and astrogliosis were increased in the drug-treated animals. There was no effect on caspase 3 activity. This study indicates that peripheral administration of G-2mPE, starting 2 h after a hypoxic-ischemic insult, reduces the degree of brain injury in the immature rat brain. The normalization of IL-6 levels and the promotion of both neovascularization and reactive astrocytosis may be potential mechanisms that underlie its protective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pernilla Svedin
- The Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Autelitano DJ, Rajic A, Smith AI, Berndt MC, Ilag LL, Vadas M. The cryptome: a subset of the proteome, comprising cryptic peptides with distinct bioactivities. Drug Discov Today 2007; 11:306-14. [PMID: 16580972 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2006.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2005] [Revised: 12/15/2005] [Accepted: 02/20/2006] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that proteolytic cleavage gives rise to 'hidden' peptides with bioactivities that are often unpredicted and totally distinct to the parent protein. So far, the liberation of these cryptic peptides, or crypteins, has been shown to be prevalent in proteins associated with endocrine signalling, the extracellular matrix, the complement cascade and milk. A broad spectrum of proteases has been implicated in the generation of natural crypteins that appear to play a role in modulating diverse biological processes, such as angiogenesis, immune function and cell growth. The proteolytic liberation of crypteins with novel activities represents an important mechanism for increasing diversity of protein function and potentially offers new opportunities for protein-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic J Autelitano
- Cryptome Pharmaceuticals, PO Box 6492, St. Kilda Rd Central, Melbourne, Vic 8008, Australia.
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Tadros SF, D’Souza M, Zettel ML, Zhu X, Frisina RD. Glutamate-related gene expression changes with age in the mouse auditory midbrain. Brain Res 2006; 1127:1-9. [PMID: 17113045 PMCID: PMC2423939 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.09.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2006] [Revised: 09/18/2006] [Accepted: 09/25/2006] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in both the peripheral and central auditory systems. Changes of glutamate and glutamate-related genes with age may be an important factor in the pathogenesis of age-related hearing loss-presbycusis. In this study, changes in glutamate-related mRNA gene expression in the CBA mouse inferior colliculus with age and hearing loss were examined and correlations were sought between these changes and functional hearing measures, such as the auditory brainstem response (ABR) and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). Gene expression of 68 glutamate-related genes was investigated using both genechip microarray and real-time PCR (qPCR) molecular techniques for four different age/hearing loss CBA mouse subject groups. Two genes showed consistent differences between groups for both the genechip and qPCR. Pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase enzyme (Pycs) showed down-regulation with age and a high-affinity glutamate transporter (Slc1a3) showed up-regulation with age and hearing loss. Since Pycs plays a role in converting glutamate to proline, its deficiency in old age may lead to both glutamate increases and proline deficiencies in the auditory midbrain, playing a role in the subsequent inducement of glutamate toxicity and loss of proline neuroprotective effects. The up-regulation of Slc1a3 gene expression may reflect a cellular compensatory mechanism to protect against age-related glutamate or calcium excitoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherif F. Tadros
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester NY, 14642-8629, USA
- International Center for Hearing & Speech Research, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology, 52 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester NY, 14623, USA
| | - Mary D’Souza
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester NY, 14642-8629, USA
- International Center for Hearing & Speech Research, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology, 52 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester NY, 14623, USA
| | - Martha L. Zettel
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester NY, 14642-8629, USA
- International Center for Hearing & Speech Research, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology, 52 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester NY, 14623, USA
| | - XiaoXia Zhu
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester NY, 14642-8629, USA
- International Center for Hearing & Speech Research, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology, 52 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester NY, 14623, USA
| | - Robert D. Frisina
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester NY, 14642-8629, USA
- International Center for Hearing & Speech Research, National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology, 52 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester NY, 14623, USA
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Alonso De Diego SA, Gutiérrez-Rodríguez M, Pérez de Vega MJ, González-Muñiz R, Herranz R, Martín-Martínez M, Cenarruzabeitia E, Frechilla D, Del Río J, Jimeno ML, García-López MT. The neuroprotective activity of GPE tripeptide analogues does not correlate with glutamate receptor binding affinity. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2006; 16:3396-400. [PMID: 16650992 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2006.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2006] [Revised: 04/05/2006] [Accepted: 04/05/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The influence of several modifications on the GPE tripeptide structure upon the binding to GluRs and on their neuroprotective effects has been studied. The results indicated that the prevention of neuronal death showed by GPE and some analogues is not directly related to their affinity at glutamate receptors.
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