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Flores-Bastías O, Gómez GI, Orellana JA, Karahanian E. Activation of Melanocortin-4 Receptor by a Synthetic Agonist Inhibits Ethanolinduced Neuroinflammation in Rats. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:4799-4805. [PMID: 31840601 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666191216145153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High ethanol intake induces a neuroinflammatory response resulting in the subsequent maintenance of chronic alcohol consumption. The melanocortin system plays a pivotal role in the modulation of alcohol consumption. Interestingly, it has been shown that the activation of melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) in the brain decreases the neuroinflammatory response in models of brain damage other than alcohol consumption, such as LPS-induced neuroinflammation, cerebral ischemia, glutamate excitotoxicity, and spinal cord injury. OBJECTIVES In this work, we aimed to study whether MC4R activation by a synthetic MC4R-agonist peptide prevents ethanol-induced neuroinflammation, and if alcohol consumption produces changes in MC4R expression in the hippocampus and hypothalamus. METHODS Ethanol-preferring Sprague Dawley rats were selected offering access to 20% ethanol on alternate days for 4 weeks (intermittent access protocol). After this time, animals were i.p. administered an MC4R agonist peptide in the last 2 days of the protocol. Then, the expression of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured in the hippocampus, hypothalamus and prefrontal cortex. It was also evaluated if ethanol intake produces alterations in the expression of MC4R in the hippocampus and the hypothalamus. RESULTS Alcohol consumption increased the expression of MC4R in the hippocampus and the hypothalamus. The administration of the MC4R agonist reduced IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α levels in hippocampus, hypothalamus and prefrontal cortex, to those observed in control rats that did not drink alcohol. CONCLUSION High ethanol consumption produces an increase in the expression of MC4R in the hippocampus and hypothalamus. The administration of a synthetic MC4R-agonist peptide prevents neuroinflammation induced by alcohol consumption in the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and prefrontal cortex. These results could explain the effect of α-MSH and other synthetic MC4R agonists in decreasing alcohol intake through the reduction of the ethanol-induced inflammatory response in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvaldo Flores-Bastías
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Chile.,Research Center for the Study of Alcohol Drinking Behavior in Adolescents, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gonzalo I Gómez
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Chile.,Research Center for the Study of Alcohol Drinking Behavior in Adolescents, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan A Orellana
- Research Center for the Study of Alcohol Drinking Behavior in Adolescents, Santiago, Chile.,Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Eduardo Karahanian
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Chile.,Research Center for the Study of Alcohol Drinking Behavior in Adolescents, Santiago, Chile
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Flores-Bastías O, Adriasola-Carrasco A, Karahanian E. Activation of Melanocortin-4 Receptor Inhibits Both Neuroinflammation Induced by Early Exposure to Ethanol and Subsequent Voluntary Alcohol Intake in Adulthood in Animal Models: Is BDNF the Key Mediator? Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:5. [PMID: 32063838 PMCID: PMC6997842 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept that neuroinflammation induced by excessive alcohol intake in adolescence triggers brain mechanisms that perpetuate consumption has strengthened in recent years. The melanocortin system, composed of the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) and its ligand α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), has been implicated both in modulation of alcohol consumption and in ethanol-induced neuroinflammation decrease. Chronic alcohol consumption in adolescent rats causes a decrease in an α-MSH release by the hypothalamus, while the administration of synthetic agonists of MC4R causes a decrease in neuroinflammation and a decrease in voluntary alcohol consumption. However, the mechanism that connects the activation of MC4R with the decrease of both neuroinflammation and voluntary alcohol consumption has not been elucidated. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated in alcohol drinking motivation, dependence and withdrawal, and its levels are reduced in alcoholics. Deficiencies in BDNF levels increased ethanol self-administration in rats. Further, BDNF triggers important anti-inflammatory effects in the brain, and this could be one of the mechanisms by which BDNF reduces chronic alcohol intake. Interestingly, MC4R signaling induces BDNF expression through the activation of the cAMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB). We hypothesize that ethanol exposure during adolescence decreases the expression of α-MSH and hence MC4R signaling in the hippocampus, leading to a lower BDNF activity that causes dramatic changes in the brain (e.g., neuroinflammation and decreased neurogenesis) that predispose to maintain alcohol abuse until adulthood. The activation of MC4R either by α-MSH or by synthetic agonist peptides can induce the expression of BDNF, which would trigger several processes that lead to lower alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvaldo Flores-Bastías
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Research Center for the Study of Alcohol Drinking Behavior in Adolescents, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alfredo Adriasola-Carrasco
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Eduardo Karahanian
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Research Center for the Study of Alcohol Drinking Behavior in Adolescents, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Flores-Bastías O, Karahanian E. Neuroinflammation produced by heavy alcohol intake is due to loops of interactions between Toll-like 4 and TNF receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and the central melanocortin system: A novel hypothesis and new therapeutic avenues. Neuropharmacology 2018; 128:401-407. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Qiao Y, Berg AL, Wang P, Ge Y, Quan S, Zhou S, Wang H, Liu Z, Gong R. MC1R is dispensable for the proteinuria reducing and glomerular protective effect of melanocortin therapy. Sci Rep 2016; 6:27589. [PMID: 27270328 PMCID: PMC4897792 DOI: 10.1038/srep27589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanocortin therapy by using adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or non-steroidogenic melanocortin peptides attenuates proteinuria and glomerular injury in experimental glomerular diseases and induces remission of nephrotic syndrome in patients with diverse glomerulopathies, even those resistant to steroids. The underlying mechanism remains elusive, but the role of melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) has been implicated and was examined here. Four patients with congenital red hair color and nephrotic syndrome caused by idiopathic membranous nephropathy or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis were confirmed by gene sequencing to bear dominant-negative MC1R mutations. Despite prior corticosteroid resistance, all patients responded to ACTH monotherapy and ultimately achieved clinical remission, inferring a steroidogenic-independent and MC1R-dispensable anti-proteinuric effect of melanocortin signaling. In confirmatory animal studies, the protective effect of [Nle4, D-Phe7]-α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (NDP-MSH), a potent non-steroidogenic pan-melanocortin receptor agonist, on the lipopolysaccharide elicited podocytopathy was completely preserved in MC1R-null mice, marked by reduced albuminuria and diminished histologic signs of podocyte injury. Moreover, in complementary in vitro studies, NDP-MSH attenuated the lipopolysaccharide elicited apoptosis, hypermotility and impairment of filtration barrier function equally in primary podocytes derived from MC1R-null and wild-type mice. Collectively, our findings suggest that melanocortin therapy confers a proteinuria reducing and podoprotective effect in proteinuric glomerulopathies via MC1R-independent mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjin Qiao
- Institute of Nephrology, Blood Purification Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Anna-Lena Berg
- Department of Nephrology, Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Pei Wang
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Yan Ge
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Songxia Quan
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Sijie Zhou
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Hai Wang
- Department of Pathology, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Zhangsuo Liu
- Institute of Nephrology, Blood Purification Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Rujun Gong
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Liebert A, Bicknell B, Adams R. Prion Protein Signaling in the Nervous System—A Review and Perspective. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.4137/sti.s12319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Prion protein (PrPC) was originally known as the causative agent of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) but with recent research, its true function in cells is becoming clearer. It is known to act as a scaffolding protein, binding multiple ligands at the cell membrane and to be involved in signal transduction, passing information from the extracellular matrix (ECM) to the cytoplasm. Its role in the coordination of transmitters at the synapse, glyapse, and gap junction and in short- and long-range neurotrophic signaling gives PrPC a major part in neural transmission and nervous system signaling. It acts to regulate cellular function in multiple targets through its role as a controller of redox status and calcium ion flux. Given the importance of PrPC in cell physiology, this review considers its potential role in disease apart from TSE. The putative functions of PrPC point to involvement in neurodegenerative disease, neuropathic pain, chronic headache, and inflammatory disease including neuroinflammatory disease of the nervous system. Potential targets for the treatment of disease influenced by PrPC are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Liebert
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Brian Bicknell
- Faculty of Health Science, Australian Catholic University, Australia
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Kaneva MK, Kerrigan MJ, Grieco P, Curley GP, Locke IC, Getting SJ. Melanocortin peptides protect chondrocytes from mechanically induced cartilage injury. Biochem Pharmacol 2014; 92:336-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2014.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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7
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Bradamante M, Turčić P, Štambuk N, Konjevoda P, Aralica G, Alerić I, Kozmar A. Cytoprotective effects of β-melanocortin in the rat gastrointestinal tract. Molecules 2012; 17:11680-92. [PMID: 23027369 PMCID: PMC6268491 DOI: 10.3390/molecules171011680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Revised: 09/19/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently discovered anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of melanocortin peptides led to the conclusion that they might serve as new anti-inflammatory therapeutics. The purpose of this work was to examine the effectiveness of β-melanocortin (β-MSH) in two experimental models: ethanol-induced gastric lesions and TNBS (2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid)-induced colitis in male Wistar rats. Three progressive doses of β-MSH were used: 0.125, 0.250 and 0.500 mg/kg. Our results suggest that β-MSH acts as a protective substance in the gastric lesions model, which can be seen as a statistically significant reduction of hemorrhagic lesions at all three doses, compared to the control group. The most efficient dose was 0.250 mg/kg. Statistically significant reduction in mucosal surface affected by necrosis and the reduction of overall degree of inflammation in the colitis model indicates an anti-inflammatory effect of β-MSH at a dose of 0.250 mg/kg. The results justify further research on β-MSH peptide and its derivates in the inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases, and point out the possibility of using β-MSH in studies of digestive system pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirna Bradamante
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Šalata 4, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Petra Turčić
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Domagojeva 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Nikola Štambuk
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed; (N.Š.); (P.K.); Tel./Fax: +385-1-468-0193
| | - Paško Konjevoda
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed; (N.Š.); (P.K.); Tel./Fax: +385-1-468-0193
| | - Gorana Aralica
- University Hospital Dubrava, Avenija Gojka Šuška 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ivan Alerić
- Department of Pulmology, University Hospital Canter Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ana Kozmar
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Kišpatićeva 12, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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Muceniece R, Dambrova M. Melanocortins in brain inflammation: the role of melanocortin receptor subtypes. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2012; 681:61-70. [PMID: 21222260 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-6354-3_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortins (MC) are released from neurons and paracrine cells in the CNS where they are involved in important physiological functions, including regulation of body temperature and immune responses. MC bind to melanocortin receptors, a class of cell surface G-protein-coupled receptors. Of the five subtypes of MC receptors that have been cloned in mammals, the MC1, MC3, MC4 and MC5 receptors are expressed in brain tissues. Expression of MC receptors in both brain cells and cells of the immune system suggests direct involvement of MC in regulation of inflammatory processes in the brain. The binding of MC to MC receptors induces activation of adenylate cyclase, increase in intracellular cAMP level and, consequently, inhibition of the nuclear transcription factor kappaB (NF-κB) signalling. Inflammatory processes contribute to development of severe CNS diseases, both in acute and chronic conditions. Thus far, the anti-inflammatory effects of MC in the CNS have been mainly studied using peptides that are relatively unselective for individual MC receptor subtypes. Consequently, these studies do not allow identification of specific MC receptor(s) involved in the regulation of inflammatory processes. However, recently synthesized ligands selective for individual MC receptors indicated that both MC4 and MC3 agonists are promising anti-inflammatory agents in treatment of brain inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruta Muceniece
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Latvia, Sarlotes St. 1a, Riga, LV-1001, Latvia.
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Henagan TM, Forney L, Dietrich MA, Harrell BR, Stewart LK. Melanocortin receptor expression is associated with reduced CRP in response to resistance training. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2012; 113:393-400. [PMID: 22678961 PMCID: PMC4422369 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00107.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2012] [Accepted: 06/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The existing paradigm of exercise-induced decreases in chronic inflammation focuses on the expression of inflammatory receptors on systemic monocytes in response to exercise training, with the role of anti-inflammatory receptors largely ignored. Our recent preliminary studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory melanocortin receptors (MCRs) may play a role in modulating exercise-induced decreases in chronic inflammation. Here, we present a study designed to determine the effect of intense, resistance exercise training on systemic monocyte MCR expression. Because low-grade chronic inflammation is associated with elevated cardiometabolic risk in healthy populations and exercise decreases chronic inflammation, we investigated the associations between systemic monocyte cell surface expression of MCRs and inflammatory markers as a possible mechanism for the beneficial anti-inflammatory effects of resistance training. To this end, the present study includes 40 adults (aged 19-27 yr) and implements a 12-wk periodized, intensive resistance training intervention. Melanocortin 1 and 3 receptor expression on systemic monocytes and inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and IL-10, were measured before and after the intervention. Resistance training significantly altered MCR systemic monocyte cell surface expression, had no chronic effects on IL-6, IL-1β, or IL-10 expression, but significantly decreased CRP levels from a moderate to a low cardiovascular disease risk category. More specifically, decreased melanocortin 3 receptor expression significantly correlated with decreased CRP, independent of changes in adiposity. These data suggest that the observed responses in MCR expression and decreases in cardiovascular disease risk in response to resistance training represent an important anti-inflammatory mechanism in regulating exercise-induced decreases in chronic inflammation that occur independent of chronic changes in systemic cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara M Henagan
- Neurosignaling Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University System, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
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Gatti S, Lonati C, Acerbi F, Sordi A, Leonardi P, Carlin A, Gaini SM, Catania A. Protective action of NDP-MSH in experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage. Exp Neurol 2012; 234:230-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2011.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Revised: 12/10/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Holloway PM, Smith HK, Renshaw D, Flower RJ, Getting SJ, Gavins FNE. Targeting the melanocortin receptor system for anti-stroke therapy. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2010; 32:90-8. [PMID: 21185610 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2010.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2010] [Revised: 11/23/2010] [Accepted: 11/24/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The melanocortin receptors are a subfamily of G-protein-coupled, rhodopsin-like receptors that are rapidly being acknowledged as an extremely promising target for pharmacological intervention in a variety of different inflammatory pathologies, including stroke. Stroke continues to be a leading cause of death worldwide, with risk factors including smoking, diabetes, hypertension and obesity. The pathophysiology of stroke is highly complex: reintroduction of blood flow to the infarcted brain region is paramount in limiting ischaemic damage caused by stroke, yet a concomitant inflammatory response can compound tissue damage. The possibilities of pro-resolving treatments that target this inflammatory response have only recently begun to be explored. This review discusses the endogenous roles of the melanocortin system in reducing characterized aspects of inflammation, and how these, together with potent neuroprotective actions, suggest its potential as a therapeutic target in stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Holloway
- Wolfson Neuroscience Laboratories, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
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12
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Catania A. Neuroprotective actions of melanocortins: a therapeutic opportunity. Trends Neurosci 2008; 31:353-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2008.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2008] [Revised: 04/02/2008] [Accepted: 04/03/2008] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Targeting melanocortin receptors: an approach to treat weight disorders and sexual dysfunction. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2008; 7:307-23. [PMID: 18323849 DOI: 10.1038/nrd2331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The melanocortin system has multifaceted roles in the control of body weight homeostasis, sexual behaviour and autonomic functions, and so targeting this pathway has immense promise for drug discovery across multiple therapeutic areas. In this Review, we first outline the physiological roles of the melanocortin system, then discuss the potential of targeting melanocortin receptors by using MC3 and MC4 agonists for treating weight disorders and sexual dysfunction, and MC4 antagonists to treat anorectic and cachectic conditions. Given the complexity of the melanocortin system, we also highlight the challenges and opportunities for future drug discovery in this area.
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Muceniece R, Zvejniece L, Vilskersts R, Liepinsh E, Baumane L, Kalvinsh I, Wikberg JE, Dambrova M. Functional Evaluation of THIQ, a Melanocortin 4 Receptor Agonist, in Models of Food Intake and Inflammation. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2007; 101:416-20. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2007.00133.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Varela N, Chorny A, Gonzalez-Rey E, Delgado M. Tuning inflammation with anti-inflammatory neuropeptides. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2007; 7:461-78. [PMID: 17373898 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.7.4.461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The immune system is confronted with the daunting task of defending the organism against invading pathogens while at the same time remaining self-tolerant to the body's own constituents and preserving its integrity. The loss of immune tolerance stemming from an unbalance in pro-inflammatory factors versus anti-inflammatory cytokines, or of autoreactive/inflammatory T helper 1 cells versus regulatory/suppressive T cells, results in the breakdown of immune homeostasis and the subsidiary appearance of exacerbated inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Some neuropeptides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and to participate in maintaining immune tolerance. Here the authors examine the most recent developments in this field and highlight the effectiveness of using neuropeptides in treating several inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nieves Varela
- Instituto de Parasitologia y Biomedicina, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (CSIC), Avd. Conocimiento, PT Ciencias de la Salud, Granada 18100, Spain.
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Chai B, Li JY, Zhang W, Ammori JB, Mulholland MW. Melanocortin-3 receptor activates MAP kinase via PI3 kinase. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 139:115-21. [PMID: 17188372 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2006.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2006] [Revised: 11/06/2006] [Accepted: 11/07/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
HEK 293 cells stably expressing human melanocortin-3 receptor (MC3R) were exposed to melanocortin receptor agonist, NDP-MSH (10(-)(10)-10(-)(6) M). ERK1/2 was phosphorylated in a dose-dependent manner with an EC(50) of 3.3+/-1.5 x 10(-)(9) M, similar to the IC(50) of NDP-MSH binding to the MC3R. ERK1/2 phosphorylation was blocked by the melanocortin receptor antagonists SHU9119. NDP-MSH-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation was sensitive to pertussis toxin and the PI3K inhibitor, wortmannin. Rp-cAMPS, BAPTA-AM and Myr-PKC did not inhibit the NDP-MSH-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation. NDP-MSH stimulated cellular proliferation in a dose-dependent manner with a similar EC(50) to ERK1/2 phosphorylation, 2.1+/-0.6 x 10(-)(9) M. Cellular proliferation was blocked by AGRP (86-132) and by the MEK inhibitor, PD98059. The NDP-MSH did not inhibit serum deprivation-induced apoptosis. MC3R activation induces ERK1/2 phosphorylation via PI3K and this pathway is involved in cellular proliferation in HEK cells expressing MC3R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biaoxin Chai
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Cragnolini AB, Caruso C, Lasaga M, Scimonelli TN. α-MSH and γ-MSH modulate early release of hypothalamic PGE2 and NO induced by IL-1β differently. Neurosci Lett 2006; 409:168-72. [PMID: 17014957 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2006.09.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2006] [Revised: 09/15/2006] [Accepted: 09/17/2006] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) stimulates corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) secretion in hypothalamus, which involves the release of prostaglandins (PGE2) and nitric oxide (NO). We have demonstrated that melanocortins can inhibit the early effects of IL-1beta on the HPA axis by acting on the central nervous system (CNS). Our study investigated whether alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) and gamma-MSH could inhibit IL-1beta-induced PGE2 and NO release in hypothalamus in the rapid activation of the HPA axis. An i.c.v. injection of 12.5 ng/microl of IL-1beta significantly increased the release of PGE2 and NOS activity in the hypothalamus. Treatment with alpha-MSH (0.1 microg/microl) inhibited the effect of IL-1beta on PGE2 release. Also, gamma-MSH (1 microg/microl) eliminated the increase in NOS activity induced by IL-1beta. Our data indicate the modulatory role of melanocortins in the early hypothalamic response to IL-1beta, with different regulation of PGE2 and NO release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Beatriz Cragnolini
- Departamento Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, UNC., Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, Ciudad Universitaria, 5000 Córdoba, Argentina
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Adan RAH, Tiesjema B, Hillebrand JJG, la Fleur SE, Kas MJH, de Krom M. The MC4 receptor and control of appetite. Br J Pharmacol 2006; 149:815-27. [PMID: 17043670 PMCID: PMC2014686 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0706929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the human melanocortin (MC)4 receptor have been associated with obesity, which underscores the relevance of this receptor as a drug target to treat obesity. Infusion of MC4R agonists decreases food intake, whereas inhibition of MC receptor activity by infusion of an MC receptor antagonist or with the inverse agonist AgRP results in increased food intake. This review addresses the role of the MC system in different aspects of feeding behaviour. MC4R activity affects meal size and meal choice, but not meal frequency, and the type of diet affects the efficacy of MC4R agonists to reduce food intake. The central sites involved in the different aspects of feeding behaviour that are affected by MC4R signalling are being unravelled. The paraventricular nucleus plays an important role in food intake per se, whereas MC signalling in the lateral hypothalamus is associated with the response to a high fat diet. MC4R signalling in the brainstem has been shown to affect meal size. Further genetic, behavioural and brain-region specific studies need to clarify how the MC4R agonists affect feeding behaviour in order to determine which obese individuals would benefit most from treatment with these drugs. Application of MCR agonists in humans has already revealed side effects, such as penile erections, which may complicate introduction of these drugs in the treatment of obesity.
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MESH Headings
- Agouti-Related Protein
- Animals
- Anti-Obesity Agents/pharmacology
- Appetite Depressants/pharmacology
- Appetite Regulation/drug effects
- Brain/metabolism
- Diet
- Energy Intake
- Feeding Behavior
- Food Preferences
- Humans
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/genetics
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/metabolism
- Ligands
- Melanocortins/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Mutation
- Nutritional Physiological Phenomena
- Obesity/genetics
- Obesity/metabolism
- Obesity/physiopathology
- Pro-Opiomelanocortin/genetics
- Pro-Opiomelanocortin/metabolism
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/genetics
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 3/metabolism
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/drug effects
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/genetics
- Receptor, Melanocortin, Type 4/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Time Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- R A H Adan
- Rudolf Magnus Institute of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology and Anatomy, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
The melanocortin system is composed of the melanocortin peptides, adrenocorticotropic hormone and alpha-, beta-, and gamma-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, the melanocortin receptors (MCRs), and the endogenous antagonists agouti- and agouti-related protein. Melanocortin peptides exert multiple effects upon the host, including anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Leukocytes are a source of melanocortins and a major target for these peptides. Because of reduced translocation of the nuclear factor NF-kappaB to the nucleus, MCR activation by their ligands causes a collective reduction of the most important molecules involved in the inflammatory process. This review examines how melanocortin peptides and their receptors participate in leukocyte biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Catania
- Center for Preclinical Investigation, Padiglione Granelli, Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Mangiagalli e Regina Elena, Via F Sforza 35, Milano, Italy.
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