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Yan M, Liu H, Su Y, Bi X, Yang N, Lin R, Lü G. Inhibition of AMPK activation in Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto limits the parasite's glucose metabolism and survival. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024; 68:e0120223. [PMID: 38349157 PMCID: PMC10916388 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01202-23] [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: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by larvae of the Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.) cluster. There is an urgent need to develop new drug targets and drug molecules to treat CE. Adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a serine/threonine protein kinase consisting of α, β, and γ subunits, plays a key role in the regulation of energy metabolism. However, the role of AMPK in regulating glucose metabolism in E. granulosus s.l. and its effects on parasite viability is unknown. In this study, we found that targeted knockdown of EgAMPKα or a small-molecule AMPK inhibitor inhibited the viability of E. granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) and disrupted the ultrastructure. The results of in vivo experiments showed that the AMPK inhibitor had a significant therapeutic effect on E. granulosus s.s.-infected mice and resulted in the loss of cellular structures of the germinal layer. In addition, the inhibition of the EgAMPK/EgGLUT1 pathway limited glucose uptake and glucose metabolism functions in E. granulosus s.s.. Overall, our results suggest that EgAMPK can be a potential drug target for CE and that inhibition of EgAMPK activation is an effective strategy for the treatment of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhi Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Clinical Medical Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Hui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Clinical Medical Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yansen Su
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
- Anhui University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojuan Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Clinical Medical Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Ning Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Clinical Medical Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Renyong Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Clinical Medical Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
- Basic Medical College, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Guodong Lü
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis, Prevention, and Treatment of Central Asian High Incidence Diseases, Clinical Medical Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
- College of Pharmacy, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
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2
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Yan J, Fan YJ, Bao H, Li YG, Zhang SM, Yao QP, Huo YL, Jiang ZL, Qi YX, Han Y. Platelet-derived microvesicles regulate vascular smooth muscle cell energy metabolism via PRKAA after intimal injury. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:275043. [PMID: 35297486 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259364] [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: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular intimal injury initiates various cardiovascular disease processes. Exposure to subendothelial collagen can cause platelet activation, leading to platelet-derived microvesicles (aPMVs) secretion. In addition, vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) exposed to large amounts of aPMVs undergo abnormal energy metabolism, they proliferate excessively and migrate after the loss of endothelium, eventually contributing to neointimal hyperplasia. However, the roles of aPMVs in VSMC energy metabolism are still unknown. Carotid artery intimal injury model indicated platelets adhered to injured blood vessels. In vitro, p-Pka content was increased in aPMVs. aPMVs significantly changed VSMC glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, and promoted VSMC migration and proliferation by upregulating p-PRKAA/p-FoxO1. Compound C, an inhibitor of PRKAA, effectively reversed the cell function and energy metabolism triggered by aPMVs in vitro and neointimal formation in vivo. Our data show that aPMVs can affect VSMC energy metabolism through the Pka/PRKAA/FoxO1 signaling pathway and ultimately affect VSMC function, indicating that VSMC metabolic phenotype shifted by aPMVs can be considered a potential target for the inhibition of hyperplasia and providing a new perspective for regulating the abnormal activity of VSMCs after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yan
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang-Jing Fan
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Bao
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Guang Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Shou-Min Zhang
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Ping Yao
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-Long Huo
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zong-Lai Jiang
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying-Xin Qi
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Han
- Institute of Mechanobiology & Medical Engineering, School of Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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3
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AMPK inhibitor BML-275 induces neuroprotection through decreasing cyt c and AIF expression after transient brain ischemia. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 52:116522. [PMID: 34837819 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116522] [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: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Stroke is a major public health problem with an imperative need for a more effective and tolerated therapy. Neuroprotective therapy may be an effective therapeutic intervention for stroke. The morbidity and mortality of stroke-induced secondary brain injury is mainly caused by neuronal apoptosis, which can be executed in a caspase-dependent or apoptosis inducing factor (AIF)-dependent manner. As apoptosis is an energy-dependent process with a relative time delay, abnormal energy metabolism could be a significant and fundamental pathophysiological basis of stroke. To our knowledge, convincible evidences that AMPK inhibition exerts neuroprotection in cerebral ischemia injury via anti-apoptosis remain to be investigated. Accordingly, the aims of this study were to investigate the protective effects of AMPK inhibitor BML-275 on cerebral ischemic/reperfusion (I/R) injury and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Cerebral ischemia was induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) in male C57BL/6 mice. The therapeutic effects of BML-275 were evaluated by infarct sizes, neurological scores and the proportion of apoptotic neurons after 24 h of reperfusion. The cell apoptosis markers cyt c and AIF were also evaluated. The results showed that intraperitoneally administration of BML-275 alleviate the cerebral infarction, neurological deficit and neuronal apoptosis induced by MCAO. BML-275 simultaneously induces anti-apoptosis and decreases the expression of cyt c and AIF. This study supports the hypothesis that anti-apoptosis is one of potential neuroprotective strategies for the treatment of stroke.
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Echinacoside improves diabetic liver injury by regulating the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway in db/db mice. Life Sci 2021; 271:119237. [PMID: 33600859 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Echinacoside (ECH) is a natural compound extracted from the stem of the Cistanche deserticola plant, has significant biological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-tumor, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. In this study, we aimed to explore the protection effects and mechanisms of ECH on diabetic liver injury in db/db mice. MAIN METHODS Overall, 6-week-old db/db mice (n = 20) were randomly allocated to 2 groups: diabetic model group (db/db group, intragastric administration of normal saline, n = 10) and ECH-treated group (db/db + ECH group, n = 10). Additionally, the normal control group comprised 6-week-old db/m mice (db/m group, normal saline intragastric administration, n = 10). ECH was administered once a day for 10 weeks. Weight and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were measured biweekly. HE staining and Oil O staining were used to evaluate liver tissue pathological changes and lipid accumulation respectively. Immunofluorescence staining, Western blot and RT-PCR analysis were used to detect the expression of components of the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling axis. KEY FINDINGS The results showed that the administration of echinacoside for 10 weeks could significantly improve liver injury and insulin resistance in db/db mice (p < 0.01). Also, echinacoside treatment helped to reduce blood lipids and blood glucose (p < 0.01). Moreover, ECH actived AMPK/SIRT1 signaling, upregulated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma co-activator 1 alpha (PGC-1α), proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα), carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1A (CPT1A) in db/db mice (p < 0.01). SIGNIFICANCE The effect of ECH may be elicited by the activation of the liver AMPK/SIRT1 pathway and its downstream factors to improve adiposity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia.
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Ayinde KS, Olaoba OT, Ibrahim B, Lei D, Lu Q, Yin X, Adelusi TI. AMPK allostery: A therapeutic target for the management/treatment of diabetic nephropathy. Life Sci 2020; 261:118455. [PMID: 32956662 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a chronic complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) with approximately 30-40% of patients with DM developing nephropathy, and it is the leading cause of end-stage renal diseases and diabetic morbidity. The pathogenesis of DN is primarily associated with irregularities in the metabolism of glucose and lipid leading to hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress, which has been a major target together with blood pressure regulation in the control of DN progression. However, the regulation of 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a highly conserved protein kinase for maintaining energy balance and cellular growth and repair has been implicated in the development of DM and its complications. Therefore, targeting AMPK pathway has been explored as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of diabetes and its complication, although most of the mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. In this review, we discuss the structure of AMPK relevant to understanding its allosteric regulation and its role in the pathogenesis and progression of DN. We also identify therapeutic agents that modulate AMPK and its downstream targets with their specific mechanisms of action in the treatment of DN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olamide Tosin Olaoba
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biochemistry, Federal University of Sao Carlos, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Boyenle Ibrahim
- Computational Biology/Drug Discovery Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Du Lei
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Qian Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Xiaoxing Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Temitope Isaac Adelusi
- Computational Biology/Drug Discovery Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China.
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6
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Coccimiglio IF, Clarke DC. ADP is the dominant controller of AMP-activated protein kinase activity dynamics in skeletal muscle during exercise. PLoS Comput Biol 2020; 16:e1008079. [PMID: 32730244 PMCID: PMC7433884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Exercise training elicits profound metabolic adaptations in skeletal muscle cells. A key molecule in coordinating these adaptations is AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), whose activity increases in response to cellular energy demand. AMPK activity dynamics are primarily controlled by the adenine nucleotides ADP and AMP, but how each contributes to its control in skeletal muscle during exercise is unclear. We developed and validated a mathematical model of AMPK signaling dynamics, and then applied global parameter sensitivity analyses with data-informed constraints to predict that AMPK activity dynamics are determined principally by ADP and not AMP. We then used the model to predict the effects of two additional direct-binding activators of AMPK, ZMP and Compound 991, further validating the model and demonstrating its applicability to understanding AMPK pharmacology. The relative effects of direct-binding activators can be understood in terms of four properties, namely their concentrations, binding affinities for AMPK, abilities to enhance AMPK phosphorylation, and the magnitudes of their allosteric activation of AMPK. Despite AMP's favorable values in three of these four properties, ADP is the dominant controller of AMPK activity dynamics in skeletal muscle during exercise by virtue of its higher concentration compared to that of AMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian F. Coccimiglio
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology and Centre for Cell Biology, Development and Disease, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - David C. Clarke
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology and Centre for Cell Biology, Development and Disease, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
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7
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Matheson CJ, Casalvieri KA, Backos DS, Minhajuddin M, Jordan CT, Reigan P. Substituted oxindol-3-ylidenes as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 197:112316. [PMID: 32334266 PMCID: PMC7409528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a central metabolic regulator that promotes cancer growth and survival under hypoxia and plays a role in the maintenance of cancer stem cells. A major challenge to interrogating the potential of targeting AMPK in cancer is the lack of potent and selective small molecule inhibitors. Compound C has been widely used as an AMPK inhibitor, but it lacks potency and has a poor selectivity profile. The multi-kinase inhibitor, sunitinib, has demonstrated potent nanomolar inhibition of AMPK activity and has scope for modification. Here, we have designed and synthesized several series of oxindoles to determine the structural requirements for AMPK inhibition and to improve selectivity. We identified two potent, novel oxindole-based AMPK inhibitors that were designed to interact with the DFG motif in the ATP-binding site of AMPK, this key feature evades interaction with the common recptor tyrosine kinase targets of sunitinib. Cellular engagement of AMPK by these oxindoles was confirmed by the inhibition of phosphorylation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), a known substrate of AMPK, in myeloid leukemia cells. Interestingly, although AMPK is highly expressed and activated in K562 cells these oxindole-based AMPK inhibitors did not impact cell viability or result in significant cytotoxicity. Our studies serve as a platform for the further development of oxindole-based AMPK inhibitors with therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Matheson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 East Montview Boulevard, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kimberly A Casalvieri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 East Montview Boulevard, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Donald S Backos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 East Montview Boulevard, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Mohammed Minhajuddin
- Division of Hematology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Craig T Jordan
- Division of Hematology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Philip Reigan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12850 East Montview Boulevard, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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8
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Zhu J, Zhang W, Zhang L, Xu L, Chen X, Zhou S, Xu Z, Xiao M, Bai H, Liu F, Su C. IL-7 suppresses macrophage autophagy and promotes liver pathology in Schistosoma japonicum-infected mice. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 22:3353-3363. [PMID: 29566311 PMCID: PMC6010884 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In schistosomiasis japonica and mansoni, parasite eggs trapped in host liver elicit severe liver granulomatous inflammation that subsequently leads to periportal fibrosis, portal hypertension, haemorrhage or even death. Macrophages are critical for granuloma formation and the development of liver fibrosis during schistosomiasis. However, whether the aberrant regulation of macrophage autophagy has an effect on the development of liver immunopathology in schistosomiasis remains to be elucidated. In this study, we showed that Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) egg antigen (SEA)-triggered macrophage autophagy limited the development of pathology in host liver. However, engagement of IL-7 receptor (IL-7R/CD127) on macrophages by S. japonicum infection-induced IL-7 significantly suppressed SEA-triggered macrophage autophagy, which led to an enhanced liver pathology. In addition, anti-IL-7 neutralizing antibody or anti-CD127 blocking antibody treatment increased macrophage autophagy and suppressed liver pathology. Finally, we demonstrated that IL-7 protects macrophage against SEA-induced autophagy through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Our study reveals a novel role for IL-7 in macrophage autophagy and identifies AMPK as a novel downstream mediator of IL-7-IL-7R signalling and suggests that manipulation of macrophage autophagy by targeting IL-7-IL-7R signalling may have the potential to lead to improved treatment options for liver pathogenesis in schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jifeng Zhu
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lina Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sha Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhipeng Xu
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ming Xiao
- Department of Anatomy, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Bai
- Department of Pathology and Physiology, Atherosclerosis Research Center, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease and Molecular Intervention, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuan Su
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Olivier S, Foretz M, Viollet B. Promise and challenges for direct small molecule AMPK activators. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 153:147-158. [PMID: 29408352 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an evolutionary conserved and ubiquitously expressed serine/threonine kinase playing a central role in the coordination of energy homeostasis. Based on the beneficial outcomes of its activation on metabolism, AMPK has emerged as an attractive target for the treatment of metabolic diseases. Identification of novel downstream targets of AMPK beyond the regulation of energy metabolism has renewed considerable attention in exploiting AMPK signaling for novel therapeutic targeting strategies including treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. The complexity of AMPK system with tissue- and species-specific expression of multiple isoform combination regulated by various inputs, post-traductional modifications and subcellular locations presents unique challenges for drug discovery. Here, we review the most recent advances in the understanding of the mechanism(s) of action of direct small molecule AMPK activators and the potential therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Séverine Olivier
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France; CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, France
| | - Marc Foretz
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France; CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, France
| | - Benoit Viollet
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France; CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France; Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, France.
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10
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Qian HF, Li Y, Wang L. Vaccinium bracteatum Thunb. Leaves' polysaccharide alleviates hepatic gluconeogenesis via the downregulation of miR-137. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 95:1397-1403. [PMID: 28946187 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccinium bracteatum Thunb.(VBT) is a traditional Chinese herb that recorded has an effect of hypoglycemic. We previous discovered a dose-dependent anti-diabetic function of VBT. leaves' polysaccharide (VBTLP), but little is known about its underlying molecular mechanism. Therefore, we hypothesized that VBTLP would decrease hepatic gluconeogenesis to improve glucose metabolism in mice. To test this hypothesis, glucose tolerance test was performed to evaluate the effect of VBTLP on mice hepatic gluconeogenesis. Western blot and RT-PCR were performed to measure both in vivo and in vitro gene regulation under VBTLP treatment. Online bioinformatic analysis was performed to discover a target candidate, miR-137 of LKB1 and AMPK under VBTLP treatment, and the luciferase assay was conducted to validate it. Here we found that VBT. leaves' polysaccharide (VBTLP) decreased hepatic gluconeogenesis via activation of LKB1/AMPK axis in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistic studies reveal that miR-137 regulates hepatic glucose homeostasis by directly targeting AMPK and LKB1. Furthermore, we shown that VBTLP decreased hepatic miR-137 level, which might contribute to activation of LKB1/AMPK and downregulation of gluconeogenesis. Taken together, our study shown that the mechanisms might involve in VBTLP hypoglycemic effect, alleviates hepatic gluconeogenesis via the downregulation of miR-137. Our findings provide guidance in developing novel, safe and effective therapies for T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Feng Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China.
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11
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Guigas B, Viollet B. Targeting AMPK: From Ancient Drugs to New Small-Molecule Activators. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 107:327-350. [PMID: 27812986 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-43589-3_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an evolutionary conserved and ubiquitously expressed serine/threonine kinase mainly acting as a key regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK is a heterotrimeric protein complex, consisting of a catalytic α subunit and two regulatory β and γ subunits, whose activity is tightly regulated by changes in adenine nucleotides and several posttranslational modifications. Once activated in response to energy deficit, AMPK concomitantly inhibits ATP-consuming anabolic processes and promotes ATP-generating catabolic pathways via direct phosphorylation of multiple downstream effectors, leading to restoration of cellular energy balance. A growing number of energy/nutrient-independent functions of AMPK are also regularly reported, progressively expanding its role to regulation of non-metabolic cellular processes. Historically, AMPK as a therapeutic target has attracted much of interest due to its potential impact on metabolic disorders, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, but has also recently received considerable renewed attention in the framework of cancer studies, highlighting the persistent need for selective, reversible, potent, and tissue-specific activators. In this chapter, we review the most recent advances in the understanding of the mechanism(s) of action of the current portfolio of AMPK activators, including plant-derived natural compounds and newly discovered small-molecule agonists directly targeting various AMPK subunits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Guigas
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, 9600, Postzone L40-Q, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Benoit Viollet
- INSERM, U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- CNRS, UMR8104, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, France
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12
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Kim J, Yang G, Kim Y, Kim J, Ha J. AMPK activators: mechanisms of action and physiological activities. Exp Mol Med 2016; 48:e224. [PMID: 27034026 PMCID: PMC4855276 DOI: 10.1038/emm.2016.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 483] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 12/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a central regulator of energy homeostasis, which coordinates metabolic pathways and thus balances nutrient supply with energy demand. Because of the favorable physiological outcomes of AMPK activation on metabolism, AMPK has been considered to be an important therapeutic target for controlling human diseases including metabolic syndrome and cancer. Thus, activators of AMPK may have potential as novel therapeutics for these diseases. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of both indirect and direct AMPK activators and their modes of action in relation to the structure of AMPK. We discuss the functional differences among isoform-specific AMPK complexes and their significance regarding the development of novel AMPK activators and the potential for combining different AMPK activators in the treatment of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joungmok Kim
- Depatment of Oral Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Goowon Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeji Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joohun Ha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
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Miglianico M, Nicolaes GAF, Neumann D. Pharmacological Targeting of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase and Opportunities for Computer-Aided Drug Design. J Med Chem 2015; 59:2879-93. [PMID: 26510622 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
As a central regulator of metabolism, the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an established therapeutic target for metabolic diseases. Beyond the metabolic area, the number of medical fields that involve AMPK grows continuously, expanding the potential applications for AMPK modulators. Even though indirect AMPK activators are used in the clinics for their beneficial metabolic outcome, the few described direct agonists all failed to reach the market to date, which leaves options open for novel targeting methods. As AMPK is not actually a single molecule and has different roles depending on its isoform composition, the opportunity for isoform-specific targeting has notably come forward, but the currently available modulators fall short of expectations. In this review, we argue that with the amount of available structural and ligand data, computer-based drug design offers a number of opportunities to undertake novel and isoform-specific targeting of AMPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Miglianico
- Department of Molecular Genetics, and ‡Department of Biochemistry, CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University , NL-6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gerry A F Nicolaes
- Department of Molecular Genetics, and ‡Department of Biochemistry, CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University , NL-6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dietbert Neumann
- Department of Molecular Genetics, and ‡Department of Biochemistry, CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University , NL-6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Is 5´-AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Both Jekyll and Hyde in Bladder Cancer? Int Neurourol J 2015; 19:55-66. [PMID: 26126434 PMCID: PMC4490316 DOI: 10.5213/inj.2015.19.2.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The 5´-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key regulator of cellular metabolism and energy homeostasis in mammalian tissues. Metabolic adaptation is a critical step in ensuring cell survival during metabolic stress. Because of its critical role in the regulation of glucose homeostasis and carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism, AMPK is involved in many human diseases, including cancers. Although AMPK signaling was originally characterized as a tumor-suppressive signaling pathway, several lines of evidence suggest that AMPK plays a much broader role and cannot simply be defined as either an oncogenic regulator or tumor suppressor. Notably, several recent studies demonstrated that the antitumorigenic effects of many indirect AMPK activators, such as metformin, do not depend on AMPK. Conversely, activation of AMPK induces the progression of cancers, emphasizing its oncogenic effect. Bladder cancer can be divided into two groups: non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). The molecular mechanisms underlying these two types of cancer are distinct: NMIBC is associated with activation of the Ras pathway, whereas MIBC is characterized by loss of major tumor suppressors. Importantly, both pathways are connected to the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. In addition, our recent metabolomic findings suggest that β-oxidation of fatty acids is an important factor in the development of bladder cancer. Both mTOR and β-oxidation are tightly associated with the AMPK pathway. Here, I summarize and discuss the recent findings on the two distinct roles of AMPK in cancer, as well as the relationship between bladder cancer and AMPK.
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The double-edged sword of AMPK signaling in cancer and its therapeutic implications. Arch Pharm Res 2015; 38:346-57. [PMID: 25575627 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-015-0549-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays a pivotal role in maintaining energy and redox homeostasis under various metabolic stress conditions. Metabolic adaptation, which can be triggered by the activation of AMPK during metabolic stress, is the critical process for cell survival through the maintenance of ATP and NADPH levels. The importance of such regulation of fundamental process poses the AMPK signaling pathway in one of the most attractive therapeutic targets in many pathologies such as diabetes and cancer. In cancer, however, accumulating data suggest that the role of AMPK would not be simply defined as anti- or pro-tumorigenic, but it seems to have two faces like a double-edged sword. Importantly, recent studies showed that the anti-tumorigenic effects of many 'indirect' AMPK activators such as anti-diabetic biguanides are not dependent on AMPK; rather the activation of AMPK induces the resistance to their cytotoxic effects, emphasizing the pro-tumorigenic effect of AMPK. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent findings suggesting the two faces of AMPK in cancer, and discuss how we can exploit this unique feature of AMPK for novel therapeutic intervention.
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Kim J, Shin J, Ha J. Screening methods for AMP-activated protein kinase modulators: a patent review. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2014; 25:261-77. [PMID: 25535089 DOI: 10.1517/13543776.2014.995626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) functions as a cellular energy gauge that maintains cellular homeostasis and has been suggested to play important roles in tumorigenesis, lifespan and autophagy. Accordingly, AMPK is a potential target of drugs for controlling a growing number of human diseases ranging from metabolic disorders to cancer, highlighting the need for rational and robust screening systems for identifying compounds that modulate AMPK. AREAS COVERED The relevant screening methods in the patent and scientific literature were analyzed, and key features of direct AMPK modulators are discussed in the context of their physiological relevance and the three-dimensional structure of the AMPK complex. EXPERT OPINION The mechanism of action of modulators is important in designing drugs with enhanced efficacy, specificity and stability. Most patented assay formats for identifying AMPK modulators are based on classical enzyme assays that monitor AMPK activity or changes in AMPK-dependent cellular physiology. However, these systems do not provide information about underlying mechanisms. Two patented assay systems use a specific domain or the three-dimensional structure of AMPK to identify AMPK modulators. The recent identification of two AMPK modulators, A-769662 and C-2 (or its prodrug, C-13), suggests the promise of structure-based assays in discovering more potent and specific modulators of AMPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joungmok Kim
- Kyung Hee University, School of Dentistry, Oral Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , Seoul , Republic of Korea
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Abstract
Recent discoveries of AMPK activators point to the large number of therapeutic candidates that can be transformed to successful designs of novel drugs. AMPK is a universal energy sensor and influences almost all physiological processes in the cells. Thus, regulation of the cellular energy metabolism can be achieved in selective tissues via the artificial activation of AMPK by small molecules. Recently, special attention has been given to direct activators of AMPK that are regulated by several nonspecific upstream factors. The direct activation of AMPK, by definition, should lead to more specific biological activities and as a result minimize possible side effects.
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