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Egunlusi AO, Joubert J. NMDA Receptor Antagonists: Emerging Insights into Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Applications in Neurological Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:639. [PMID: 38794209 PMCID: PMC11124131 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) include a range of chronic conditions characterized by progressive neuronal loss, leading to cognitive, motor, and behavioral impairments. Common examples include Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The global prevalence of NDs is on the rise, imposing significant economic and social burdens. Despite extensive research, the mechanisms underlying NDs remain incompletely understood, hampering the development of effective treatments. Excitotoxicity, particularly glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, is a key pathological process implicated in NDs. Targeting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which plays a central role in excitotoxicity, holds therapeutic promise. However, challenges, such as blood-brain barrier penetration and adverse effects, such as extrapyramidal effects, have hindered the success of many NMDA receptor antagonists in clinical trials. This review explores the molecular mechanisms of NMDA receptor antagonists, emphasizing their structure, function, types, challenges, and future prospects in treating NDs. Despite extensive research on competitive and noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonists, the quest for effective treatments still faces significant hurdles. This is partly because the same NMDA receptor that necessitates blockage under pathological conditions is also responsible for the normal physiological function of NMDA receptors. Allosteric modulation of NMDA receptors presents a potential alternative, with the GluN2B subunit emerging as a particularly attractive target due to its enrichment in presynaptic and extrasynaptic NMDA receptors, which are major contributors to excitotoxic-induced neuronal cell death. Despite their low side-effect profiles, selective GluN2B antagonists like ifenprodil and radiprodil have encountered obstacles such as poor bioavailability in clinical trials. Moreover, the selectivity of these antagonists is often relative, as they have been shown to bind to other GluN2 subunits, albeit minimally. Recent advancements in developing phenanthroic and naphthoic acid derivatives offer promise for enhanced GluN2B, GluN2A or GluN2C/GluN2D selectivity and improved pharmacodynamic properties. Additional challenges in NMDA receptor antagonist development include conflicting preclinical and clinical results, as well as the complexity of neurodegenerative disorders and poorly defined NMDA receptor subtypes. Although multifunctional agents targeting multiple degenerative processes are also being explored, clinical data are limited. Designing and developing selective GluN2B antagonists/modulators with polycyclic moieties and multitarget properties would be significant in addressing neurodegenerative disorders. However, advancements in understanding NMDA receptor structure and function, coupled with collaborative efforts in drug design, are imperative for realizing the therapeutic potential of these NMDA receptor antagonists/modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Olatunde Egunlusi
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Jacques Joubert
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa;
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Carles A, Freyssin A, Perin-Dureau F, Rubinstenn G, Maurice T. Targeting N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptors in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3733. [PMID: 38612544 PMCID: PMC11011887 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073733] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are the main class of ionotropic receptors for the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. They play a crucial role in the permeability of Ca2+ ions and excitatory neurotransmission in the brain. Being heteromeric receptors, they are composed of several subunits, including two obligatory GluN1 subunits (eight splice variants) and regulatory GluN2 (GluN2A~D) or GluN3 (GluN3A~B) subunits. Widely distributed in the brain, they regulate other neurotransmission systems and are therefore involved in essential functions such as synaptic transmission, learning and memory, plasticity, and excitotoxicity. The present review will detail the structure, composition, and localization of NMDARs, their role and regulation at the glutamatergic synapse, and their impact on cognitive processes and in neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and Parkinson's disease). The pharmacology of different NMDAR antagonists and their therapeutic potentialities will be presented. In particular, a focus will be given on fluoroethylnormemantine (FENM), an investigational drug with very promising development as a neuroprotective agent in Alzheimer's disease, in complement to its reported efficacy as a tomography radiotracer for NMDARs and an anxiolytic drug in post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Carles
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier, France; (A.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Aline Freyssin
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier, France; (A.C.); (A.F.)
- ReST Therapeutics, 34095 Montpellier, France; (F.P.-D.); (G.R.)
| | | | | | - Tangui Maurice
- MMDN, University of Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier, France; (A.C.); (A.F.)
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Freyssin A, Carles A, Guehairia S, Rubinstenn G, Maurice T. Fluoroethylnormemantine (FENM) shows synergistic protection in combination with a sigma-1 receptor agonist in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Neuropharmacology 2024; 242:109733. [PMID: 37844867 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109733] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Fluoroethylnormemantine (FENM) is a Memantine derivative with anti-amnesic and neuroprotective activities showed in the Aβ25-35 pharmacological mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). As AD is a complex multi-factorial neurodegenerative pathology, combination therapies relying on drugs acting through different pathways, have been suggested to more adequately address neuroprotection. As several agonists of the sigma-1 receptor (S1R), an intracellular chaperone, are presently in phase 2 or 3 clinical trials in neurodegenetrative diseases including AD, we examined the potentialities of S1R drug-based combinations with FENM, or Memantine. Aβ25-35-treated mice were treated with S1R agonists (PRE-084, Igmesine, Cutamesine) and/or FENM, or Memantine, during 7 days after intracerebroventricular administration of oligomerized Aβ25-35. Mice were then tested for spatial short-term memory on day 8 and non-spatial long-term memory on days 9-10, using the spontaneous alternation or passive avoidance tests, respectively. The FENM or Memantine combination with Donepezil, that non-selectively inhibits acetylcholinesterase and activates S1R, was also tested. The efficacy of combinations using maximal non-active or minimal active doses of S1R agonist or FENM was analyzed using calculations of the combination index, based on simple isobologram representation. Data showed that most of the FENM-based combinations led to synergistic protection against Aβ25-35-induced learning deficits, for both long- and short-term memory responses, with a higher efficiency on the latter. Memantine led to synergistic combination in short-term memory but poorly in long-term memory responses, with either PRE-084 or Donepezil. These study showed that drug combinations based on FENM and S1R agonists may lead to highly effective and synergistic protection in AD, particularly on short-term memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Freyssin
- MMDN, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, EPHE, Montpellier, France; ReST Therapeutics, Montpellier, France
| | - Allison Carles
- MMDN, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, EPHE, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Tangui Maurice
- MMDN, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, EPHE, Montpellier, France.
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Jané P, Xu X, Taelman V, Jané E, Gariani K, Dumont RA, Garama Y, Kim F, Del Val Gomez M, Walter MA. The Imageable Genome. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7329. [PMID: 37957176 PMCID: PMC10643363 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43123-3] [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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding human disease on a molecular level, and translating this understanding into targeted diagnostics and therapies are central tenets of molecular medicine1. Realizing this doctrine requires an efficient adaptation of molecular discoveries into the clinic. We present an approach to facilitate this process by describing the Imageable Genome, the part of the human genome whose expression can be assessed via molecular imaging. Using a deep learning-based hybrid human-AI pipeline, we bridge individual genes and their relevance in human diseases with specific molecular imaging methods. Cross-referencing the Imageable Genome with RNA-seq data from over 60,000 individuals reveals diagnostic, prognostic and predictive imageable genes for a wide variety of major human diseases. Having both the critical size and focus to be altered in its expression during the development and progression of any human disease, the Imageable Genome will generate new imaging tools that improve the understanding, diagnosis and management of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Jané
- University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Division, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Eduardo Jané
- Departamento de Matemática Aplicada a la Ingeniería Aeroespacial - ETSIAE, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Karim Gariani
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Patient Therapeutic Education, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - María Del Val Gomez
- Servicio de Medicina Nuclear, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Martin A Walter
- University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland.
- St. Anna Hospital, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland.
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Beaurain M, Talmont F, Pierre D, Péran P, Boucher S, Hitzel A, Rols MP, Cuvillier O, Payoux P, Salabert AS. Pharmacological Characterization of [ 18F]-FNM and Evaluation of NMDA Receptors Activation in a Rat Brain Injury Model. Mol Imaging Biol 2023:10.1007/s11307-023-01811-y. [PMID: 36944798 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-023-01811-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE NMDA receptors (NMDARs) dysfunction plays a central role in the physiopathology of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders whose mechanisms are still poorly understood. The development of a PET (positron emission tomography) tracer able to selectively bind to the NMDARs intra-channel PCP site may make it possible to visualize NMDARs in an open and active state. We describe the in vitro pharmacological characterization of [18F]-fluoroethylnormemantine ([18F]-FNM) and evaluate its ability to localize activated NMDA receptors in a rat preclinical model of excitotoxicity. PROCEDURES The affinity of the non-radioactive analog for the intra-channel PCP site was determined in a radioligand competition assay using [3H]TCP ([3H]N-(1-[thienyl]cyclohexyl)piperidine) on rat brain homogenates. Selectivity was also investigated by the displacement of specific radioligands targeting various cerebral receptors. In vivo brain lesions were performed using stereotaxic quinolinic acid (QA) injections in the left motor area (M1) of seven Sprague Dawley rats. Each rat was imaged with a microPET/CT camera, 40 min after receiving a dose of 30 MBq + / - 20 of [18F]-FNM, 24 and 72 h after injury. Nine non-injured rats were also imaged using the same protocol. RESULTS FNM displayed IC50 value of 13.0 ± 8.9 µM in rat forebrain homogenates but also showed significant bindings on opioid receptors. In the frontal and left somatosensory areas, [18F]FNM PET detected a mean of 37% and 41% increase in [18F]FNM uptake (p < 0,0001) 24 and 72 h after QA stereotaxic injection, respectively, compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS In spite of FNM's poor affinity for NMDAR PCP site, this study supports the ability of this tracer to track massive activation of NMDARs in neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Beaurain
- Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, ToNIC, UMR1214 Inserm, Toulouse, France.
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Toulouse Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France.
| | - Franck Talmont
- Institut de Pharmacologie Et de Biologie Structurale, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Damien Pierre
- Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, ToNIC, UMR1214 Inserm, Toulouse, France
| | - Patrice Péran
- Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, ToNIC, UMR1214 Inserm, Toulouse, France
| | - Samuel Boucher
- Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, ToNIC, UMR1214 Inserm, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne Hitzel
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Toulouse Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Marie-Pierre Rols
- Institut de Pharmacologie Et de Biologie Structurale, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Olivier Cuvillier
- Institut de Pharmacologie Et de Biologie Structurale, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Pierre Payoux
- Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, ToNIC, UMR1214 Inserm, Toulouse, France
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Toulouse Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Salabert
- Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, ToNIC, UMR1214 Inserm, Toulouse, France
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Toulouse Purpan University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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Shinozaki Y, Tega Y, Akanuma SI, Hosoya KI. The Structural Characteristics of Compounds Interacting with the Amantadine-Sensitive Drug Transport System at the Inner Blood–Retinal Barrier. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030435. [PMID: 36986534 PMCID: PMC10053584 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-to-retina transport across the inner blood–retinal barrier (BRB) is a key determinant of retinal drug concentration and pharmacological effect. Recently, we reported on the amantadine-sensitive drug transport system, which is different from well-characterized transporters, at the inner BRB. Since amantadine and its derivatives exhibit neuroprotective effects, it is expected that a detailed understanding of this transport system would lead to the efficient retinal delivery of these potential neuroprotective agents for the treatment of retinal diseases. The objective of this study was to characterize the structural features of compounds for the amantadine-sensitive transport system. Inhibition analysis conducted on a rat inner BRB model cell line indicated that the transport system strongly interacts with lipophilic amines, especially primary amines. In addition, lipophilic primary amines that have polar groups, such as hydroxy and carboxy groups, did not inhibit the amantadine transport system. Furthermore, certain types of primary amines with an adamantane skeleton or linear alkyl chain exhibited a competitive inhibition of amantadine uptake, suggesting that these compounds are potential substrates for the amantadine-sensitive drug transport system at the inner BRB. These results are helpful for producing the appropriate drug design to improve the blood-to-retina delivery of neuroprotective drugs.
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Zheng M, Ahmed H, Smart K, Xu Y, Holden D, Kapinos M, Felchner Z, Haider A, Tamagnan G, Carson RE, Huang Y, Ametamey SM. Characterization in nonhuman primates of (R)-[ 18F]OF-Me-NB1 and (S)-[ 18F]OF-Me-NB1 for imaging the GluN2B subunits of the NMDA receptor. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2022; 49:2153-2162. [PMID: 35107627 PMCID: PMC9165293 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-022-05698-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE GluN2B containing N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) play an essential role in neurotransmission and are a potential treatment target for multiple neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, including stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 was reported to be more specific and selective than (S)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 for the GluN2B subunits of the NMDAR based on their binding affinity to GluN2B and sigma-1 receptors. Here we report a comprehensive evaluation of (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 and (S)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 in nonhuman primates. METHODS The radiosynthesis of (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 and (S)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 started from 18F-fluorination of the boronic ester precursor, followed by removal of the acetyl protecting group. PET scans in two rhesus monkeys were conducted on the Focus 220 scanner. Blocking studies were performed after treatment of the animals with the GluN2B antagonist Co101,244 or the sigma-1 receptor antagonist FTC-146. One-tissue compartment (1TC) model and multilinear analysis-1 (MA1) method with arterial input function were used to obtain the regional volume of distribution (VT, mL/cm3). Occupancy values by the two blockers were obtained by the Lassen plot. Regional non-displaceable binding potential (BPND) was calculated from the corresponding baseline VT and the VND derived from the occupancy plot of the Co101,244 blocking scans. RESULTS (R)- and (S)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 were produced in > 99% radiochemical and enantiomeric purity, with molar activity of 224.22 ± 161.69 MBq/nmol at the end of synthesis (n = 10). Metabolism was moderate, with ~ 30% parent compound remaining for (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 and 20% for (S)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 at 30 min postinjection. Plasma free fraction was 1-2%. In brain regions, both (R)- and (S)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 displayed fast uptake with slower clearance for the (R)- than (S)-enantiomer. For (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1, both the 1TC model and MA1 method gave reliable estimates of regional VT values, with MA1 VT (mL/cm3) values ranging from 8.9 in the cerebellum to 12.8 in the cingulate cortex. Blocking with 0.25 mg/kg of Co101,244 greatly reduced the uptake of (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 across all brain regions, resulting in occupancy of 77% and VND of 6.36, while 0.027 mg/kg of FTC-146 reduced specific binding by 30%. Regional BPND, as a measure of specific binding signals, ranged from 0.40 in the cerebellum to 1.01 in the cingulate cortex. CONCLUSIONS In rhesus monkeys, (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 exhibited fast kinetics and heterogeneous uptake across brain regions, while the (S)-enantiomer displayed a narrower dynamic range of uptake across regions. A Blocking study with a GluN2B antagonist indicated binding specificity. The value of BPND was > 0.5 in most brain regions, suggesting good in vivo specific binding signals. Taken together, results from the current study demonstrated the potential of (R)-[18F]OF-Me-NB1 as a useful radiotracer for imaging the GluN2B receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hazem Ahmed
- PET Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kelly Smart
- PET Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yuping Xu
- PET Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | | | | | | | - Ahmed Haider
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Yiyun Huang
- PET Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Simon M Ametamey
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Chen BK, Luna VM, Shannon ME, Hunsberger HC, Mastrodonato A, Stackmann M, McGowan JC, Rubinstenn G, Denny CA. Fluoroethylnormemantine, a Novel NMDA Receptor Antagonist, for the Prevention and Treatment of Stress-Induced Maladaptive Behavior. Biol Psychiatry 2021; 90:458-472. [PMID: 34274107 PMCID: PMC9590626 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder is a common, recurrent illness. Recent studies have implicated the NMDA receptor in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder. (R,S)-ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, is an effective antidepressant but has numerous side effects. Here, we characterized a novel NMDA receptor antagonist, fluoroethylnormemantine (FENM), to determine its effectiveness as a prophylactic and/or antidepressant against stress-induced maladaptive behavior. METHODS Saline, memantine (10 mg/kg), (R,S)-ketamine (30 mg/kg), or FENM (10, 20, or 30 mg/kg) was administered before or after contextual fear conditioning in 129S6/SvEv mice. Drug efficacy was assayed using various behavioral tests. Protein expression in the hippocampus was quantified with immunohistochemistry or Western blotting. In vitro radioligand binding was used to assay drug binding affinity. Patch clamp electrophysiology was used to determine the effect of drug administration on glutamatergic activity in ventral hippocampal cornu ammonis 3 (vCA3) 1 week after injection. RESULTS Given after stress, FENM decreased behavioral despair and reduced perseverative behavior. When administered after re-exposure, FENM facilitated extinction learning. As a prophylactic, FENM attenuated learned fear and decreased stress-induced behavioral despair. FENM was behaviorally effective in both male and female mice. (R,S)-ketamine, but not FENM, increased expression of c-fos in vCA3. Both (R,S)-ketamine and FENM attenuated large-amplitude AMPA receptor-mediated bursts in vCA3, indicating a common neurobiological mechanism for further study. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that FENM is a novel drug that is efficacious when administered at various times before or after stress. Future work will further characterize FENM's mechanism of action with the goal of clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana K Chen
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Victor M Luna
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc./New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Holly C Hunsberger
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc./New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Alessia Mastrodonato
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc./New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Michelle Stackmann
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Josephine C McGowan
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | | | - Christine A Denny
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc./New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York.
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Chen BK, Le Pen G, Eckmier A, Rubinstenn G, Jay TM, Denny CA. Fluoroethylnormemantine, A Novel Derivative of Memantine, Facilitates Extinction Learning Without Sensorimotor Deficits. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2021; 24:519-531. [PMID: 33631001 PMCID: PMC8278800 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Memantine, a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, has been approved for use in Alzheimer's disease, but an increasing number of studies have investigated its utility for neuropsychiatric disorders. Here, we characterized a novel compound, fluoroethylnormemtantine (FENM), which was derived from memantine with an extra Fluor in an optimized position for in vivo biomarker labeling. We sought to determine if FENM produced similar behavioral effects as memantine and/or if FENM has beneficial effects against fear, avoidance, and behavioral despair. METHODS We administered saline, FENM, or memantine prior to a number of behavioral assays, including paired-pulse inhibition, open field, light dark test, forced swim test, and cued fear conditioning in male Wistar rats. RESULTS Unlike memantine, FENM did not produce nonspecific side effects and did not alter sensorimotor gating or locomotion. FENM decreased immobility in the forced swim test. Moreover, FENM robustly facilitated fear extinction learning when administered prior to either cued fear conditioning training or tone reexposure. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that FENM is a promising, novel compound that robustly reduces fear behavior and may be useful for further preclinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana K Chen
- Doctoral Program in Neurobiology and Behavior, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gwenaëlle Le Pen
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, INSERM U1266, Pathophysiology of Psychiatric Disorders, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Adam Eckmier
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, INSERM U1266, Pathophysiology of Psychiatric Disorders, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Therese M Jay
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris, INSERM U1266, Pathophysiology of Psychiatric Disorders, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Christine A Denny
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc./New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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Kim JH, Marton J, Ametamey SM, Cumming P. A Review of Molecular Imaging of Glutamate Receptors. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25204749. [PMID: 33081223 PMCID: PMC7587586 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25204749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular imaging with positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a well-established and important in vivo technique to evaluate fundamental biological processes and unravel the role of neurotransmitter receptors in various neuropsychiatric disorders. Specific ligands are available for PET/SPECT studies of dopamine, serotonin, and opiate receptors, but corresponding development of radiotracers for receptors of glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter in mammalian brain, has lagged behind. This state of affairs has persisted despite the central importance of glutamate neurotransmission in brain physiology and in disorders such as stroke, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent years have seen extensive efforts to develop useful ligands for molecular imaging of subtypes of the ionotropic (N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), kainate, and AMPA/quisqualate receptors) and metabotropic glutamate receptors (types I, II, and III mGluRs). We now review the state of development of radioligands for glutamate receptor imaging, placing main emphasis on the suitability of available ligands for reliable in vivo applications. We give a brief account of the radiosynthetic approach for selected molecules. In general, with the exception of ligands for the GluN2B subunit of NMDA receptors, there has been little success in developing radiotracers for imaging ionotropic glutamate receptors; failure of ligands for the PCP/MK801 binding site in vivo doubtless relates their dependence on the open, unblocked state of the ion channel. Many AMPA and kainite receptor ligands with good binding properties in vitro have failed to give measurable specific binding in the living brain. This may reflect the challenge of developing brain-penetrating ligands for amino acid receptors, compounded by conformational differences in vivo. The situation is better with respect to mGluR imaging, particularly for the mGluR5 subtype. Several successful PET ligands serve for investigations of mGluRs in conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, substance abuse and aging. Considering the centrality and diversity of glutamatergic signaling in brain function, we have relatively few selective and sensitive tools for molecular imaging of ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors. Further radiopharmaceutical research targeting specific subtypes and subunits of the glutamate receptors may yet open up new investigational vistas with broad applications in basic and clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong-Hoon Kim
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21565, Korea
- Gachon Advanced Institute for Health Science and Technology, Graduate School, Incheon 21565, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 21565, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.-H.K.); (P.C.); Tel.: +41-31-664-0498 (P.C.); Fax: +41-31-632-7663 (P.C.)
| | - János Marton
- ABX Advanced Biochemical Compounds, Biomedizinische Forschungsreagenzien GmbH, Heinrich-Glaeser-Strasse 10-14, D-1454 Radeberg, Germany;
| | - Simon Mensah Ametamey
- Centre for Radiopharmaceutical Sciences ETH-PSI-USZ, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences ETH, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland;
| | - Paul Cumming
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Bern, Inselspital, Freiburgstrasse 18, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD 4059, Australia
- Correspondence: (J.-H.K.); (P.C.); Tel.: +41-31-664-0498 (P.C.); Fax: +41-31-632-7663 (P.C.)
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Couly S, Denus M, Bouchet M, Rubinstenn G, Maurice T. Anti-Amnesic and Neuroprotective Effects of Fluoroethylnormemantine in a Pharmacological Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 24:142-157. [PMID: 32977336 PMCID: PMC7883897 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current therapies in Alzheimer's disease (AD), including Memantine, have proven to be only symptomatic but not curative or disease modifying. Fluoroethylnormemantine (FENM) is a structural analogue of Memantine, functionalized with a fluorine group that allowed its use as a positron emission tomography tracer. We here analyzed FENM neuroprotective potential in a pharmacological model of AD compared with Memantine. METHODS Swiss mice were treated intracerebroventricularly with aggregated Aβ 25-35 peptide and examined after 1 week in a battery of memory tests (spontaneous alternation, passive avoidance, object recognition, place learning in the water-maze, topographic memory in the Hamlet). Toxicity induced in the mouse hippocampus or cortex was analyzed biochemically or morphologically. RESULTS Both Memantine and FENM showed symptomatic anti-amnesic effects in Aβ 25-35-treated mice. Interestingly, FENM was not amnesic when tested alone at 10 mg/kg, contrarily to Memantine. Drugs injected once per day prevented Aβ 25-35-induced memory deficits, oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation, cytochrome c release), inflammation (interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α increases; glial fibrillary acidic protein and Iba1 immunoreactivity in the hippocampus and cortex), and apoptosis and cell loss (Bcl-2-associated X/B-cell lymphoma 2 ratio; cell loss in the hippocampus CA1 area). However, FENM effects were more robust than observed with Memantine, with significant attenuations vs the Aβ 25-35-treated group. CONCLUSIONS FENM therefore appeared as a potent neuroprotective drug in an AD model, with a superior efficacy compared with Memantine and an absence of direct amnesic effect at higher doses. These results open the possibility to use the compound at more relevant dosages than those actually proposed in Memantine treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Couly
- MMDN, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, EPHE, Montpellier, France
| | - Morgane Denus
- MMDN, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, EPHE, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Tangui Maurice
- MMDN, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, EPHE, Montpellier, France,Correspondence: Dr T. Maurice, PhD, INSERM UMR_S1198, Université de Montpellier, cc 105, Place Eugène Bataillon, 34095 Montpellier cedex 5, France ()
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12
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Beaurain M, Salabert AS, Ribeiro MJ, Arlicot N, Damier P, Le Jeune F, Demonet JF, Payoux P. Innovative Molecular Imaging for Clinical Research, Therapeutic Stratification, and Nosography in Neuroscience. Front Med (Lausanne) 2019; 6:268. [PMID: 31828073 PMCID: PMC6890558 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2019.00268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, several radiotracers have been developed for neuroimaging applications, especially in PET. Because of their low steric hindrance, PET radionuclides can be used to label molecules that are small enough to cross the blood brain barrier, without modifying their biological properties. As the use of 11C is limited by its short physical half-life (20 min), there has been an increasing focus on developing tracers labeled with 18F for clinical use. The first such tracers allowed cerebral blood flow and glucose metabolism to be measured, and the development of molecular imaging has since enabled to focus more closely on specific targets such as receptors, neurotransmitter transporters, and other proteins. Hence, PET and SPECT biomarkers have become indispensable for innovative clinical research. Currently, the treatment options for a number of pathologies, notably neurodegenerative diseases, remain only supportive and symptomatic. Treatments that slow down or reverse disease progression are therefore the subject of numerous studies, in which molecular imaging is proving to be a powerful tool. PET and SPECT biomarkers already make it possible to diagnose several neurological diseases in vivo and at preclinical stages, yielding topographic, and quantitative data about the target. As a result, they can be used for assessing patients' eligibility for new treatments, or for treatment follow-up. The aim of the present review was to map major innovative radiotracers used in neuroscience, and explain their contribution to clinical research. We categorized them according to their target: dopaminergic, cholinergic or serotoninergic systems, β-amyloid plaques, tau protein, neuroinflammation, glutamate or GABA receptors, or α-synuclein. Most neurological disorders, and indeed mental disorders, involve the dysfunction of one or more of these targets. Combinations of molecular imaging biomarkers can afford us a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying disease development over time, and contribute to early detection/screening, diagnosis, therapy delivery/monitoring, and treatment follow-up in both research and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Beaurain
- CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Inserm U1214, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Salabert
- CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Inserm U1214, Toulouse, France
| | - Maria Joao Ribeiro
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, Tours, France.,Inserm CIC 1415, University Hospital, Tours, France.,CHRU Tours, Tours, France
| | - Nicolas Arlicot
- UMR 1253, iBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, Tours, France.,Inserm CIC 1415, University Hospital, Tours, France.,CHRU Tours, Tours, France
| | - Philippe Damier
- Inserm U913, Neurology Department, University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | | | - Jean-François Demonet
- Leenards Memory Centre, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pierre Payoux
- CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Inserm U1214, Toulouse, France
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Structural Analysis, Molecular Modelling and Preliminary Competition Binding Studies of AM-DAN as a NMDA Receptor PCP-Site Fluorescent Ligand. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24224092. [PMID: 31766120 PMCID: PMC6891720 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24224092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Excitotoxicity related to the dysfunction of the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) has been indicated to play an integral role in the pathophysiology of multiple disease states, including neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. There is a notable gap in the market for novel NMDAR antagonists, however current methods to analyse potential antagonists rely on indirect measurements of calcium flux and hazardous radioligand binding assays. Recently, a fluorescent NMDAR ligand, N-adamantan-1-yl-dimethylamino-1-naphthalenesulfonic acid, known as AM-DAN was developed by our group. Additional studies on this ligand is necessary to evaluate its potential as a biological tool in NMDAR research. Therefore, this study was aimed at conducting structural analyses, fluorescence experiments, high-accuracy NMDAR molecular modelling and NMDAR phencyclidine (PCP) site competition binding studies using AM-DAN. Results revealed that AM-DAN has appropriate structural properties, significant fluorescent ability in various solvents and is able to bind selectively and compete for the PCP-binding site of the NMDAR. Therefore, AM-DAN holds promise as a novel fluorescent ligand to measure the affinity of prospective drugs binding at the NMDAR PCP-site and may circumvent the use of radioligands.
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Szermerski M, Börgel F, Schepmann D, Haider A, Betzel T, Ametamey SM, Wünsch B. Fluorinated GluN2B Receptor Antagonists with a 3-Benzazepine Scaffold Designed for PET Studies. ChemMedChem 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.201700819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Szermerski
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie der; Universität Münster; Corrensstraße 48 48149 Münster Germany
| | - Frederik Börgel
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie der; Universität Münster; Corrensstraße 48 48149 Münster Germany
| | - Dirk Schepmann
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie der; Universität Münster; Corrensstraße 48 48149 Münster Germany
| | - Ahmed Haider
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences; Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences; ETH Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Thomas Betzel
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences; Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences; ETH Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Simon M. Ametamey
- Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences; Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences; ETH Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Wünsch
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie der; Universität Münster; Corrensstraße 48 48149 Münster Germany
- Cells-in-Motion Cluster of Excellence (EXC 1003-CiM); Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität; Münster Germany
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Salabert AS, Mora-Ramirez E, Beaurain M, Alonso M, Fontan C, Tahar HB, Boizeau ML, Tafani M, Bardiès M, Payoux P. Evaluation of [ 18F]FNM biodistribution and dosimetry based on whole-body PET imaging of rats. Nucl Med Biol 2017; 59:1-8. [PMID: 29413751 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this work was to study the biodistribution, metabolism and radiation dosimetry of rats injected with [18F]FNM using PET/CT images. This novel radiotracer targeting NMDA receptor has potential for investigation for neurological and psychiatric diseases. METHODS Free fraction and stability in fresh human plasma were determined in vitro. PET/CT was performed on anesthetized rats. Organs were identified and 3D volumes of interest (VOIs) were manually drawn on the CT in the center of each organ. Time activity curves (TACs) were created with these VOIs, enabling the calculation of residence times. To confirm these values, ex vivo measurements of organs were performed. Plasma and urine were also collected to study in vivo metabolism. Data was extrapolated to humans, effective doses were estimated using ICRP-60 and ICRP-89 dosimetric models and absorbed doses were estimated using OLINDA/EXM V1.0 and OLINDA/EXM V2.0 (which use weighting factors from ICRP-103 to do the calculations). RESULTS The [18F]FNM was stable in human plasma and the diffusible free fraction was 53%. As with memantine, this tracer is poorly metabolized in vivo. Ex vivo distributions validated PET/CT data as well as demonstrating a decrease of radiotracer uptake in the brain due to anesthesia. Total effective dose was around 6.11 μSv/MBq and 4.65 μSv/MBq for female and male human dosimetric models, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that the presented compound exhibits stability in plasma and plasma protein binding very similar to memantine. Its dosimetry shows that it is suitable for use in humans due to a low total effective dose compared to other PET radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sophie Salabert
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; University Hospital, Radiopharmacy Unit, Toulouse, France.
| | - Erick Mora-Ramirez
- Inserm, UMR1037 CRCT, F-31000 Toulouse, France; Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, UMR1037 CRCT, F-31000 Toulouse, France; Universidad de Costa Rica, CICANUM-Escuela de Física, San José, Costa Rica.
| | - Marie Beaurain
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; University Hospital, Radiopharmacy Unit, Toulouse, France.
| | - Mathieu Alonso
- University Hospital, Radiopharmacy Unit, Toulouse, France.
| | | | - Hafid Belhadj Tahar
- Research and Expertise Group, French Association for the Promotion of Medical Research (AFPREMED), Toulouse, France.
| | - Marie Laure Boizeau
- Advanced Technology Institute in Life Sciences (ITAV), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III (CNRS-UPS), Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III (UPS), Université de ToulouseToulouse, France.
| | - Mathieu Tafani
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; University Hospital, Radiopharmacy Unit, Toulouse, France.
| | - Manuel Bardiès
- Inserm, UMR1037 CRCT, F-31000 Toulouse, France; Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, UMR1037 CRCT, F-31000 Toulouse, France.
| | - Pierre Payoux
- ToNIC, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, France; University Hospital, Nuclear Medicine Unit, Toulouse, France.
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