1
|
Shirsath KR, Patil VK, Awathale SN, Goyal SN, Nakhate KT. Pathophysiological and therapeutic implications of neuropeptide S system in neurological disorders. Peptides 2024; 175:171167. [PMID: 38325715 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2024.171167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Neuropeptide S (NPS) is a 20 amino acids-containing neuroactive molecule discovered by the reverse pharmacology method. NPS is detected in specific brain regions like the brainstem, amygdala, and hypothalamus, while its receptor (NPSR) is ubiquitously expressed in the central nervous system (CNS). Besides CNS, NPS and NPSR are also expressed in the peripheral nervous system. NPSR is a G-protein coupled receptor that primarily uses Gq and Gs signaling pathways to mediate the actions of NPS. In animal models of Parkinsonism and Alzheimer's disease, NPS exerts neuroprotective effects. NPS suppresses oxidative stress, anxiety, food intake, and pain, and promotes arousal. NPSR facilitates reward, reinforcement, and addiction-related behaviors. Genetic variation and single nucleotide polymorphism in NPSR are associated with depression, schizophrenia, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma. NPS interacts with several neurotransmitters including glutamate, noradrenaline, serotonin, corticotropin-releasing factor, and gamma-aminobutyric acid. It also modulates the immune system via augmenting pro-inflammatory cytokines and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. In the present review, we discussed the distribution profile of NPS and NPSR, signaling pathways, and their importance in the pathophysiology of various neurological disorders. We have also proposed the areas where further investigations on the NPS system are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamini R Shirsath
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vaishnavi K Patil
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sanjay N Awathale
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sameer N Goyal
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kartik T Nakhate
- Department of Pharmacology, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal's Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule 424001, Maharashtra, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Huang Y, Wojciechowski A, Feldman K, Ettaro R, Veros K, Ritter M, Carvalho Costa P, DiStasio J, Peirick JJ, Reissner KJ, Runyon SP, Clark SD. RTI-263, a biased neuropeptide S receptor agonist that retains an anxiolytic effect, attenuates cocaine-seeking behavior in rats. Neuropharmacology 2023; 241:109743. [PMID: 37820934 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptide S (NPS) is a neuromodulatory peptide that acts via a G protein-coupled receptor. Centrally administered NPS suppresses anxiety-like behaviors in rodents while producing a paradoxical increase in arousal. In addition, NPS increases drug-seeking behavior when administered during cue-induced reinstatement. Conversely, an NPS receptor (NPSR) antagonist, RTI-118, decreases cocaine-seeking behavior. A biased NPSR ligand, RTI-263, produces anxiolytic-like effects and has memory-enhancing effects similar to those of NPS but without the increase in arousal. In the present study, we show that RTI-263 decreased cocaine seeking by both male and female rats during cue-induced reinstatement. However, RTI-263 did not modulate the animals' behaviors during natural reward paradigms, such as palatable food intake, feeding during a fasting state, and cue-induced reinstatement of sucrose seeking. Therefore, NPSR biased agonists are a potential pharmacotherapy for substance use disorder because of the combined benefits of decreased drug seeking and the suppression of anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanli Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Alaina Wojciechowski
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Kyle Feldman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Robert Ettaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Kaliana Veros
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Morgan Ritter
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Paula Carvalho Costa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Jacob DiStasio
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Jennifer J Peirick
- Laboratory Animal Facilities, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Kathryn J Reissner
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Scott P Runyon
- Research Triangle Institute, Center for Drug Discovery, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Stewart D Clark
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Akçalı İ, Akkan SS, Bülbül M. The regulatory role of central neuropeptide-S in locomotion. Peptides 2023; 170:171110. [PMID: 37832875 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2023.171110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Central exogenous Neuropeptide-S (NPS) was demonstrated to increase locomotor activity (LMA) in rodent studies. NPS receptor (NPSR) is produced in locomotion-related brain regions including basal ganglia while NPS mediates dopaminergic neurotransmission suggesting that endogenous brain NPS is involved in the regulation of locomotion. Aim of the study was to elucidate whether antagonism of NPSR impairs locomotion and to determine the neurochemical profile of NPSR-expressing cells in basal ganglia network. In the rats received intracerebroventricular injection of selective non-peptide NPSR antagonist ML154 (20 nmol/5 µL) or vehicle, in addition to measurement of catalepsy, motor performance, and motor coordination were evaluated by assessment of LMA and RR test, respectively. The immunoreactivities for NPSR, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), glutamate decarboxylase 67 (GAD67), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) were detected by immunofluorescence in frozen sections. Compared to the control rats, total LMA was significantly declined following ML154 administration. The ML154-injected rats were more prone to fall in rotarod (RR) test, while they exhibited remarkably high catalepsy time. The most robust immunoreactivity for NPSR was detected in globus pallidus externa (GPe), while moderate levels of NPSR expression were observed in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA), but not in striatum. The NPSR-ir cell bodies were found to express GAD67 in GPe and TH in SNpc and VTA, respectively. NPSR expression was detected in SNpc-projecting pallidal cells. The present findings indicate the regulatory role of central endogenous NPS in the control of locomotion. NPSR may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of movement disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- İrem Akçalı
- Department of Physiology, Akdeniz University, Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Simla Su Akkan
- Department of Physiology, Akdeniz University, Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Bülbül
- Department of Physiology, Akdeniz University, Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
A Role for Neuropeptide S in Alcohol and Cocaine Seeking. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15070800. [PMID: 35890099 PMCID: PMC9317571 DOI: 10.3390/ph15070800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuropeptide S (NPS) is the endogenous ligand of the NPS receptor (NPSR). The NPSR is widely expressed in brain regions that process emotional and affective behavior. NPS possesses a unique physio-pharmacological profile, being anxiolytic and promoting arousal at the same time. Intracerebroventricular NPS decreased alcohol consumption in alcohol-preferring rats with no effect in non-preferring control animals. This outcome is most probably linked to the anxiolytic properties of NPS, since alcohol preference is often associated with high levels of basal anxiety and intense stress-reactivity. In addition, NPSR mRNA was overexpressed during ethanol withdrawal and the anxiolytic-like effects of NPS were increased in rodents with a history of alcohol dependence. In line with these preclinical findings, a polymorphism of the NPSR gene was associated with anxiety traits contributing to alcohol use disorders in humans. NPS also potentiated the reinstatement of cocaine and ethanol seeking induced by drug-paired environmental stimuli and the blockade of NPSR reduced reinstatement of cocaine-seeking. Altogether, the work conducted so far indicates the NPS/NPSR system as a potential target to develop new treatments for alcohol and cocaine abuse. An NPSR agonist would be indicated to help individuals to quit alcohol consumption and to alleviate withdrawal syndrome, while NPSR antagonists would be indicated to prevent relapse to alcohol- and cocaine-seeking behavior.
Collapse
|
5
|
Bhat US, Shahi N, Surendran S, Babu K. Neuropeptides and Behaviors: How Small Peptides Regulate Nervous System Function and Behavioral Outputs. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:786471. [PMID: 34924955 PMCID: PMC8674661 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.786471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the reasons that most multicellular animals survive and thrive is because of the adaptable and plastic nature of their nervous systems. For an organism to survive, it is essential for the animal to respond and adapt to environmental changes. This is achieved by sensing external cues and translating them into behaviors through changes in synaptic activity. The nervous system plays a crucial role in constantly evaluating environmental cues and allowing for behavioral plasticity in the organism. Multiple neurotransmitters and neuropeptides have been implicated as key players for integrating sensory information to produce the desired output. Because of its simple nervous system and well-established neuronal connectome, C. elegans acts as an excellent model to understand the mechanisms underlying behavioral plasticity. Here, we critically review how neuropeptides modulate a wide range of behaviors by allowing for changes in neuronal and synaptic signaling. This review will have a specific focus on feeding, mating, sleep, addiction, learning and locomotory behaviors in C. elegans. With a view to understand evolutionary relationships, we explore the functions and associated pathophysiology of C. elegans neuropeptides that are conserved across different phyla. Further, we discuss the mechanisms of neuropeptidergic signaling and how these signals are regulated in different behaviors. Finally, we attempt to provide insight into developing potential therapeutics for neuropeptide-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umer Saleem Bhat
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, India
| | - Navneet Shahi
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Siju Surendran
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - Kavita Babu
- Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Holanda VAD, Didonet JJ, Costa MBB, do Nascimento Rangel AH, da Silva ED, Gavioli EC. Neuropeptide S Receptor as an Innovative Therapeutic Target for Parkinson Disease. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14080775. [PMID: 34451872 PMCID: PMC8401573 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease mainly characterized by the loss of nigral dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Patients suffering from PD develop severe motor dysfunctions and a myriad of non-motor symptoms. The treatment mainly consists of increasing central dopaminergic neurotransmission and alleviating motor symptoms, thus promoting severe side effects without modifying the disease’s progress. A growing body of evidence suggests a close relationship between neuropeptide S (NPS) and its receptor (NPSR) system in PD: (i) double immunofluorescence labeling studies showed that NPSR is expressed in the nigral tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons; (ii) central administration of NPS increases spontaneous locomotion in naïve rodents; (iii) central administration of NPS ameliorates motor and nonmotor dysfunctions in animal models of PD; (iv) microdialysis studies showed that NPS stimulates dopamine release in naïve and parkinsonian rodents; (v) central injection of NPS decreases oxidative damage to proteins and lipids in the rodent brain; and, (vi) 7 days of central administration of NPS protects from the progressive loss of nigral TH-positive cells in parkinsonian rats. Taken together, the NPS/NPSR system seems to be an emerging therapeutic strategy for alleviating motor and non-motor dysfunctions of PD and, possibly, for slowing disease progress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor A. D. Holanda
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078-900, Brazil; (V.A.D.H.); (J.J.D.); (M.B.B.C.); (E.D.d.S.J.)
| | - Julia J. Didonet
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078-900, Brazil; (V.A.D.H.); (J.J.D.); (M.B.B.C.); (E.D.d.S.J.)
| | - Manara B. B. Costa
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078-900, Brazil; (V.A.D.H.); (J.J.D.); (M.B.B.C.); (E.D.d.S.J.)
| | | | - Edilson D. da Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078-900, Brazil; (V.A.D.H.); (J.J.D.); (M.B.B.C.); (E.D.d.S.J.)
| | - Elaine C. Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN 59078-900, Brazil; (V.A.D.H.); (J.J.D.); (M.B.B.C.); (E.D.d.S.J.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Dissociative Effects of Neuropeptide S Receptor Deficiency and Nasal Neuropeptide S Administration on T-Maze Discrimination and Reversal Learning. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14070643. [PMID: 34358069 PMCID: PMC8308873 DOI: 10.3390/ph14070643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive flexibility refers to the ability to modify learned behavior in response to changes in the environment. In laboratory rodents, cognitive flexibility can be assessed in reversal learning, i.e., the change of contingencies, for example in T-maze discrimination learning. The present study investigated the role of the neuropeptide S (NPS) system in cognitive flexibility. In the first experiment, mice deficient of NPS receptors (NPSR) were tested in T-maze discrimination and reversal learning. In the second experiment, C57BL/6J mice were tested in the T-maze after nasal administration of NPS. Finally, the effect of nasal NPS on locomotor activity was evaluated. NPSR deficiency positively affected the acquisition of T-maze discrimination but had no effects on reversal learning. Nasal NPS administration facilitated reversal learning and supported an allocentric learning strategy without affecting acquisition of the task or locomotor activity. Taken together, the present data show that the NPS system is able to modulate both acquisition of T-maze discrimination and its reversal learning. However, NPSR deficiency only improved discrimination learning, while nasal NPS administration only improved reversal learning, i.e., cognitive flexibility. These effects, which at first glance appear to be contradictory, could be due to the different roles of the NPS system in the brain regions that are important for learning and cognitive flexibility.
Collapse
|
8
|
Chou Y, Hor CC, Lee MT, Lee H, Guerrini R, Calo G, Chiou L. Stress induces reinstatement of extinguished cocaine conditioned place preference by a sequential signaling via neuropeptide S, orexin, and endocannabinoid. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12971. [PMID: 33078457 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurons containing neuropeptide S (NPS) and orexins are activated during stress. Previously, we reported that orexins released during stress, via orexin OX1 receptors (OX1 Rs), contribute to the reinstatement of cocaine seeking through endocannabinoid/CB1 receptor (CB1 R)-mediated dopaminergic disinhibition in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Here, we further demonstrated that NPS released during stress is an up-stream activator of this orexin-endocannabinoid cascade in the VTA, leading to the reinstatement of cocaine seeking. Mice were trained to acquire cocaine conditioned place preference (CPP) by context-pairing cocaine injections followed by the extinction training with context-pairing saline injections. Interestingly, the extinguished cocaine CPP in mice was significantly reinstated by intracerebroventricular injection (i.c.v.) of NPS (1 nmol) in a manner prevented by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) of SHA68 (50 mg/kg), an NPS receptor antagonist. This NPS-induced cocaine reinstatement was prevented by either i.p. or intra-VTA microinjection (i.vta.) of SB-334867 (15 mg/kg, i.p. or 15 nmol, i.vta.) and AM 251 (1.1 mg/kg, i.p. or 30 nmol, i.vta.), antagonists of OX1 Rs and CB1 Rs, respectively. Besides, NPS (1 nmol, i.c.v.) increased the number of c-Fos-containing orexin neurons in the lateral hypothalamus (LH) and increased orexin-A level in the VTA. The latter effect was blocked by SHA68. Furthermore, a 30-min restraint stress in mice reinstated extinguished cocaine CPP and was prevented by SHA68. These results suggest that NPS is released upon stress and subsequently activates LH orexin neurons to release orexins in the VTA. The released orexins then reinstate extinguished cocaine CPP via an OX1 R- and endocannabinoid-CB1 R-mediated signaling in the VTA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐Hsien Chou
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Chia Chun Hor
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Ming Tatt Lee
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences UCSI University Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
| | - Hsin‐Jung Lee
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate (LTTA) University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
| | - Lih‐Chu Chiou
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Sciences China Medical University Taichung Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Albanese V, Ruzza C, Marzola E, Bernardi T, Fabbri M, Fantinati A, Trapella C, Reinscheid RK, Ferrari F, Sturaro C, Calò G, Amendola G, Cosconati S, Pacifico S, Guerrini R, Preti D. Structure-Activity Relationship Studies on Oxazolo[3,4- a]pyrazine Derivatives Leading to the Discovery of a Novel Neuropeptide S Receptor Antagonist with Potent In Vivo Activity. J Med Chem 2021; 64:4089-4108. [PMID: 33733768 PMCID: PMC8041306 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptide S modulates important neurobiological functions including locomotion, anxiety, and drug abuse through interaction with its G protein-coupled receptor known as neuropeptide S receptor (NPSR). NPSR antagonists are potentially useful for the treatment of substance abuse disorders against which there is an urgent need for new effective therapeutic approaches. Potent NPSR antagonists in vitro have been discovered which, however, require further optimization of their in vivo pharmacological profile. This work describes a new series of NPSR antagonists of the oxazolo[3,4-a]pyrazine class. The guanidine derivative 16 exhibited nanomolar activity in vitro and 5-fold improved potency in vivo compared to SHA-68, a reference pharmacological tool in this field. Compound 16 can be considered a new tool for research studies on the translational potential of the NPSergic system. An in-depth molecular modeling investigation was also performed to gain new insights into the observed structure-activity relationships and provide an updated model of ligand/NPSR interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Albanese
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Technopole of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erika Marzola
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tatiana Bernardi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Fabbri
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Anna Fantinati
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Technopole of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rainer K Reinscheid
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, 07747 Jena, Germany
- Institute of Physiology I, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Federica Ferrari
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Sturaro
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Girolamo Calò
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Largo Meneghetti, 2, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgio Amendola
- "DiSTABiF", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Sandro Cosconati
- "DiSTABiF", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Technopole of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Delia Preti
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
The Neural Network of Neuropeptide S (NPS): Implications in Food Intake and Gastrointestinal Functions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14040293. [PMID: 33810221 PMCID: PMC8065993 DOI: 10.3390/ph14040293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Neuropeptide S (NPS), a 20 amino acids peptide, is recognized as the endogenous ligand of a previously orphan G protein-coupled receptor, now termed NPS receptor (NPSR). The limited distribution of the NPS-expressing neurons in few regions of the brainstem is in contrast with the extensive expression of NPSR in the rodent central nervous system, suggesting the involvement of this receptor in several brain functions. In particular, NPS promotes locomotor activity, behavioral arousal, wakefulness, and unexpectedly, at the same time, it exerts anxiolytic-like properties. Intriguingly, the NPS system is implicated in the rewarding properties of drugs of abuse and in the regulation of food intake. Here, we focus on the anorexigenic effect of NPS, centrally injected in different brain areas, in both sated and fasted animals, fed with standard or palatable food, and, in addition, on its influence in the gastrointestinal tract. Further investigations, regarding the role of the NPS/NPSR system and its potential interaction with other neurotransmitters could be useful to understand the mechanisms underlying its action and to develop novel pharmacological tools for the treatment of aberrant feeding patterns and obesity.
Collapse
|
11
|
Lei Z, Lu Y, Bai X, Jiang Z, Yu Q. Chemerin-9 Peptide Enhances Memory and Ameliorates Aβ 1–42-Induced Object Memory Impairment in Mice. Biol Pharm Bull 2020; 43:272-283. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b19-00510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- ZeLin Lei
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, the First Hospital of Lanzhou University
| | - YaQin Lu
- Department of Neurology, the First Hospital of Lanzhou University
| | - Xue Bai
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, the First Hospital of Lanzhou University
| | - ZhenXiu Jiang
- Department of Neurology, the First Hospital of Lanzhou University
| | - Qin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Regenerative Medicine, the First Hospital of Lanzhou University
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bülbül M, Sinen O, Özkan A, Aslan MA, Ağar A. Central neuropeptide-S treatment improves neurofunctions of 6-OHDA-induced Parkinsonian rats. Exp Neurol 2019; 317:78-86. [PMID: 30825442 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra (SN). The motor symptoms of PD include tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and postural impairment. In rodents, central administration of neuropeptide-S (NPS) has been shown to induce locomotor activity, dopamine release and neuronal survival by decreasing lipid peroxidation, additionally, the NPS receptor (NPSR) was detected in SN. Accumulating findings suggest that central NPS may ameliorate the parkinsonian symptoms, however, this has been explored incompletely due to the scarcity of experimental studies. Therefore, the present study was designed to test whether central NPS treatment exerts protective and/or alleviative effects on 6-OHDA-induced rat experimental PD model. Adult male Wistar rats received acute (alleviate; 10 nmol, icv) or chronic (protective; 1 nmol, icv for 7 days) NPS treatment following the central injection of 6-OHDA in medial forebrain bundle. Motor performance tests and in vivo nigral microdialysis were performed before and 7 days after the central 6-OHDA injection. The immunoreactivities for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), NPSR, 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and c-Fos were detected by immunohistochemistry in frozen SN sections. Our double immunofluorescence labeling studies demonstrated that NPSR is present in the nigral TH-positive neurons. Central NPS injection caused a remarkable c-Fos expression in SN; whereas, no change was observed following vehicle injection. In both chronic and acute treatment groups, the 6-OHDA-induced motor dysfunction and impaired nigral dopamine release were improved significantly. However, only chronic, but not acute treatment restored the loss of nigral TH-positive cells, while decreasing the 4-HNE immunoreactivity in SN. Our findings demonstrate that central NPS treatment not only exerts a neuroprotective action on nigral dopaminergic neurons, it also improves the striatal dopaminergic signaling. Therefore, the present study candidates the NPSR agonism as a novel therapeutic approach for PD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Bülbül
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Osman Sinen
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Özkan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Mutay Aydın Aslan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Aysel Ağar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jiang JH, Peng YL, Zhang PJ, Xue HX, He Z, Liang XY, Chang M. The ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus plays an important role in anxiolytic-like effect of neuropeptide S. Neuropeptides 2018; 67:36-44. [PMID: 29195839 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptide S (NPS), the endogenous neuropeptide ligand of NPSR, has been reported to regulate anxiety-related behavior involved in multiple brain regions, including amygdale, locus coeruleus and Barrington's nucleus. However, little research has been conducted on the anxiolytic-like behaviors of NPS on the hypothalamus, which was an important area in defensive behavior. Here, we investigated a role of hypothalamus in anxiolytic-like behaviors of NPS. We found that NPSR protein of mouse distributed mainly in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH). And in the single prolonged stress model (SPS), the results showed that NPS mRNA of the mice exposed to SPS was significantly higher than control, while NPSR mRNA was remarkable lower than control in hypothalamus. Further studies found that NPS intra-VMH infusion dose-dependently (1, 10 and 100pmol) induced anxiolytic effects, using elevated plus maze and open field tests. These anxiolytic effects could be blocked by NPSR antagonist (SHA68), but not by picrotoxin (a GABAA receptor antagonist) and sacolfen (a GABAB receptor antagonist). Meanwhile, our data showed that the expression of c-Fos was significantly increased in VMH after NPS delivered into the lateral ventricles. These results cast a new light on the hypothalamic nucleus in the anxiolytic-like effect of NPS system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Hong Jiang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ya Li Peng
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Pei Jiang Zhang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hong Xiang Xue
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhen He
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xue Ya Liang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - M Chang
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tinoco AB, Semmens DC, Patching EC, Gunner EF, Egertová M, Elphick MR. Characterization of NGFFYamide Signaling in Starfish Reveals Roles in Regulation of Feeding Behavior and Locomotory Systems. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:507. [PMID: 30283399 PMCID: PMC6156427 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides in deuterostomian invertebrates that have an Asn-Gly motif (NG peptides) have been identified as orthologs of vertebrate neuropeptide-S (NPS)-type peptides and protostomian crustacean cardioactive peptide (CCAP)-type neuropeptides. To obtain new insights into the physiological roles of NG peptides in deuterostomian invertebrates, here we have characterized the NG peptide signaling system in an echinoderm-the starfish Asterias rubens. The neuropeptide NGFFYamide was identified as the ligand for an A. rubens NPS/CCAP-type receptor, providing further confirmation that NG peptides are orthologs of NPS/CCAP-type neuropeptides. Using mRNA in situ hybridization, cells expressing the NGFFYamide precursor transcript were revealed in the radial nerve cords, circumoral nerve ring, coelomic epithelium, apical muscle, body wall, stomach, and tube feet of A. rubens, indicating that NGFFYamide may have a variety of physiological roles in starfish. One of the most remarkable aspects of starfish biology is their feeding behavior, where the stomach is everted out of the mouth over the soft tissue of prey. Previously, we reported that NGFFYamide triggers retraction of the everted stomach in A. rubens and here we show that in vivo injection of NGFFYamide causes a significant delay in the onset of feeding on prey. To investigate roles in regulating other aspects of starfish physiology, we examined the in vitro effects of NGFFYamide and found that it causes relaxation of acetylcholine-contracted apical muscle preparations and induction of tonic and phasic contraction of tube feet. Furthermore, analysis of the effects of in vivo injection of NGFFYamide on starfish locomotor activity revealed that it causes a significant reduction in mean velocity and distance traveled. Interestingly, experimental studies on mammals have revealed that NPS is an anxiolytic that suppresses appetite and induces hyperactivity in mammals. Our characterization of the actions of NGFFYamide in starfish indicates that NPS/NG peptide/CCAP-type signaling is an evolutionarily ancient regulator of feeding and locomotion.
Collapse
|
15
|
Ruzza C, Calò G, Di Maro S, Pacifico S, Trapella C, Salvadori S, Preti D, Guerrini R. Neuropeptide S receptor ligands: a patent review (2005-2016). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2016; 27:347-362. [PMID: 27788040 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2017.1254195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuropeptide S (NPS) is a 20-residue peptide and endogenous ligand of the NPS receptor (NPSR). This receptor was a formerly orphan GPCR whose activation increases calcium and cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels. The NPS/NPSR system is expressed in several brain regions where it controls important biological functions including locomotor activity, arousal and sleep, anxiety, food intake, memory, pain, and drug addiction. Areas covered: This review furnishes an updated overview of the patent literature covering NPSR ligands since 2005, when the first example of an NPSR antagonist was disclosed. Expert opinion: Several potent NPSR antagonists are available as valuable pharmacological tools despite showing suboptimal pharmacokinetic properties in vivo. The optimization of these ligands is needed to speed up their potential clinical advancement as pharmaceuticals to treat drug addiction. In order to support the design of novel NPSR antagonists, we performed a ligand-based conformational analysis recognizing some structural requirements for NPSR antagonism. The identification of small-molecule NPSR agonists now represents an unmet challenge to be addressed. These molecules will allow investigation of the beneficial effects of selective NPSR activation in a large panel of psychiatric disorders and to foresee their therapeutic potential as anxiolytics, nootropics, and analgesics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Ruzza
- a Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| | - Girolamo Calò
- a Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, School of Medicine and National Institute of Neuroscience , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| | | | - Salvatore Pacifico
- c Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| | - Claudio Trapella
- c Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| | - Severo Salvadori
- c Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| | - Delia Preti
- c Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- c Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Long-term treatment with haloperidol affects neuropeptide S and NPSR mRNA levels in the rat brain. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2016; 28:110-6. [PMID: 26467816 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2015.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The brainstem-derived neuropeptide S (NPS) has a multidirectional regulatory activity, especially as a potent anxiolytic factor. Accumulating data suggests that neuroleptics affect peptidergic signalling in various brain structures. However, there is no information regarding the influence of haloperidol on NPS and NPS receptor (NPSR) expression. METHODS We assessed NPS and NPSR mRNA levels in brains of rats treated with haloperidol using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Chronic haloperidol treatment (4 weeks) led to a striking upregulation of NPS and NPSR expression in the rat brainstem. Conversely, the NPSR mRNA expression was decreased in the hippocampus and striatum. CONCLUSIONS This stark increase of NPS in response to haloperidol treatment supports the hypothesis that this neuropeptide is involved in the dopamine-dependent anxiolytic actions of neuroleptics and possibly also in the pathophysiology of mental disorders. Furthermore, our findings underline the complex nature of potential interactions between dopamine receptors and brain peptidergic pathways, which has potential clinical applications.
Collapse
|
17
|
Smith JP, Prince MA, Achua JK, Robertson JM, Anderson RT, Ronan PJ, Summers CH. Intensity of anxiety is modified via complex integrative stress circuitries. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2016; 63:351-61. [PMID: 26555428 PMCID: PMC4838407 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Escalation of anxious behavior while environmentally and socially relevant contextual events amplify the intensity of emotional response produces a testable gradient of anxiety shaped by integrative circuitries. Apprehension of the Stress-Alternatives Model apparatus (SAM) oval open field (OF) is measured by the active latency to escape, and is delayed by unfamiliarity with the passageway. Familiar OF escape is the least anxious behavior along the continuum, which can be reduced by anxiolytics such as icv neuropeptide S (NPS). Social aggression increases anxiousness in the SAM, reducing the number of mice willing to escape by 50%. The apprehension accompanying escape during social aggression is diminished by anxiolytics, such as exercise and corticotropin releasing-factor receptor 1 (CRF1) antagonism, but exacerbated by anxiogenic treatment, like antagonism of α2-adrenoreceptors. What is more, the anxiolytic CRF1 and anxiogenic α2-adrenoreceptor antagonists also modify behavioral phenotypes, with CRF1 antagonism allowing escape by previously submissive animals, and α2-adrenoreceptor antagonism hindering escape in mice that previously engaged in it. Gene expression of NPS and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the central amygdala (CeA), as well as corticosterone secretion, increased concomitantly with the escalating anxious content of the mouse-specific anxiety continuum. The general trend of CeA NPS and BDNF expression suggested that NPS production was promoted by increasing anxiousness, and that BDNF synthesis was associated with learning about ever-more anxious conditions. The intensity gradient for anxious behavior resulting from varying contextual conditions may yield an improved conceptualization of the complexity of mechanisms producing the natural continuum of human anxious conditions, and potential therapies that arise therefrom.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin P. Smith
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Veterans Affairs Research Service, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57105 USA,Institute of Possibility, 322 E. 8th Street, Suite 302, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 USA,Sanford Health, 2301 E. 60th St. N., Sioux Falls, SD 57104 USA
| | - Melissa A. Prince
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA
| | - Justin K. Achua
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Veterans Affairs Research Service, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57105 USA
| | - James M. Robertson
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA
| | - Raymond T. Anderson
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University School of Medicine 1 Medical Center Dr., Morgantown, WV 26506 USA
| | - Patrick J. Ronan
- Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Veterans Affairs Research Service, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57105 USA,Avera Research Institute, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57105 USA,Laboratory for Clinical and Translational Research in Psychiatry, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, CO 80220 USA,Department of Psychiatry, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA
| | - Cliff H. Summers
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA,Corresponding author: Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, 414 East Clark Street, Vermillion, SD 57069-2390, 605 677 6177, fax: 605 677 6557.
| |
Collapse
|