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Tang X, Chen H, Zhao M, Yang W, Shuang R, Xu S. α7nAChR-mediated astrocytic activation: A novel mechanism of Xiongzhi Dilong decoction in ameliorating chronic migraine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 334:118509. [PMID: 38971346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR)-mediated astrocytic activation is closely related to central sensitization of chronic migraine (CM). Xiongzhi Dilong decoction (XZDL), originated from Xiongzhi Shigao decoction of Yi-zong-jin-jian, has been confirmed to relieve CM in experiment and clinic. However, its underlying mechanism for treating CM has not been elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY To reveal the underlying mechanisms of XZDL to alleviate CM in vivo focusing mainly on α7nAChR-mediated astrocytic activation and central sensitization in TNC. MATERIALS AND METHODS CM rat model was established by subcutaneous injection of nitroglycerin (NTG) recurrently, and treated with XZDL simultaneously. Migraine-like behaviors of rats (ear redness, head scratching, and cage climbing) and pain-related reactions (mechanical hind-paw withdrawal threshold) of rats were evaluated before and after NTG injection and XZDL administration at different points in time for nine days. The immunofluorescence single and double staining were applied to detect the levels of CGRP, c-Fos, GFAP and α7nAChR in NTG-induced CM rats. ELISA kits were employed to quantify levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in medulla oblongata of CM rats. The expression levels of target proteins were examined using western blotting. Finally, methyllycaconitine citrate (MLA, a specific antagonist of α7nAChR) was applied to further validate the mechanisms of XZDL in vivo. RESULTS XZDL significantly attenuated the pain-related behaviors of the NTG-induced CM rats, manifesting as constraints of aberrant migraine-like behaviors including elongated latency of ear redness and decreased numbers of head scratching and cage climbing, and increment of mechanical withdrawal threshold. Moreover, XZDL markedly lowered levels of CGRP and c-Fos, as well as inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) in CM rats. Furthermore, XZDL significantly enhanced α7nAChR expression and its co-localization with GFAP, while markedly inhibited the expression of GFAP and the activation of JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB pathway in the TNC of CM rats. Finally, blocking α7nAChR with MLA reversed the effects of XZDL on astrocytic activation, central sensitization, and the pain-related behaviors in vivo. CONCLUSION XZDL inhibited astrocytic activation and central sensitization in NTG-induced CM rats by facilitating α7nAChR expression and suppressing JAK2/STAT3/NF-κB pathway, implying that the regulation of α7nAChR-mediated astrocytic activation represents a novel mechanism of XZDL for relieving CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqian Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Hao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Meihuan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Wenqin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Ruonan Shuang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China
| | - Shijun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China; Institute of Meterial Medica Integration and Transformation for Brain Disorders, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, China.
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Lewis CM, Griffith TN. Ion channels of cold transduction and transmission. J Gen Physiol 2024; 156:e202313529. [PMID: 39051992 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202313529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Thermosensation requires the activation of a unique collection of ion channels and receptors that work in concert to transmit thermal information. It is widely accepted that transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) activation is required for normal cold sensing; however, recent studies have illuminated major roles for other ion channels in this important somatic sensation. In addition to TRPM8, other TRP channels have been reported to contribute to cold transduction mechanisms in diverse sensory neuron populations, with both leak- and voltage-gated channels being identified for their role in the transmission of cold signals. Whether the same channels that contribute to physiological cold sensing also mediate noxious cold signaling remains unclear; however, recent work has found a conserved role for the kainite receptor, GluK2, in noxious cold sensing across species. Additionally, cold-sensing neurons likely engage in functional crosstalk with nociceptors to give rise to cold pain. This Review will provide an update on our understanding of the relationship between various ion channels in the transduction and transmission of cold and highlight areas where further investigation is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheyanne M Lewis
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Theanne N Griffith
- Department of Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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Su J, Chen K, Sang X, Feng Z, Zhou F, Zhao H, Wu S, Deng X, Lin C, Lin X, Xie L, Ye H, Chen Q. Huperzine a ameliorates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress via α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 141:112907. [PMID: 39159557 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112907] [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: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Sepsis, characterized by high mortality rates, causes over 50 % of acute lung injury (ALI) cases, primarily due to the heightened susceptibility of the lungs during this condition. Suppression of the excessive inflammatory response is critical for improving the survival of patients with sepsis; nevertheless, no specific anti-sepsis drugs exist. Huperzine A (HupA) exhibits neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties; however, its underlying mechanisms and effects on sepsis-induced ALI have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated the potential of HupA for treating sepsis and explored its mechanism of action. To investigate the in vivo impacts of HupA, a murine model of sepsis was induced through cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in both wild-type (WT) and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) knockout mice. Our results showed that HupA ameliorates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by activating the α7nAChR. We used the CLP sepsis model in wild-type and α7nAChR -/- mice and found that HupA significantly increased the survival rate through α7nAChR, reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and oxidative stress, ameliorated histopathological lung injury, altered the circulating immune cell composition, regulated gut microbiota, and promoted short-chain fatty acid production through α7nAChR in vivo. Additionally, HupA inhibited Toll-like receptor NF-κB signaling by upregulating the α7nAChR/protein kinase B/glycogen synthase kinase-3 pathways. Our data elucidate HupA's mechanism of action and support a "new use for an old drug" in treating sepsis. Our findings serve as a basis for further in vivo studies of this drug, followed by application to humans. Therefore, the findings have the potential to benefit patients with sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingqian Su
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China.
| | - Kunsen Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Xiao Sang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Zhihua Feng
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Fen Zhou
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Heng Zhao
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Shun Wu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Xiaohui Deng
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Congfan Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Xinrui Lin
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Lian Xie
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Hui Ye
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China
| | - Qi Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian Province 350117, PR China.
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Gotti C, Clementi F, Zoli M. Special issue "The multifaceted activities of nervous and non-nervous neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in physiology and pathology". Pharmacol Res 2024; 205:107239. [PMID: 38801984 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesco Clementi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Zoli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology (CfNN), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Cunha M, Tavares I, Costa-Pereira JT. Centralizing the Knowledge and Interpretation of Pain in Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Paradigm Shift towards Brain-Centric Approaches. Brain Sci 2024; 14:659. [PMID: 39061400 PMCID: PMC11274822 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14070659] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a side effect of cancer treatment, often linked with pain complaints. Patients report mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity that may emerge during chemotherapy treatment and may persist after cancer remission. Whereas the latter situation disturbs the quality of life, life itself may be endangered by the appearance of CIPN during cancer treatment. The causes of CIPN have almost entirely been ascribed to the neurotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs in the peripheral nervous system. However, the central consequences of peripheral neuropathy are starting to be unraveled, namely in the supraspinal pain modulatory system. Based on our interests and experience in the field, we undertook a review of the brain-centered alterations that may underpin pain in CIPN. The changes in the descending pain modulation in CIPN models along with the functional and connectivity abnormalities in the brain of CIPN patients are analyzed. A translational analysis of preclinical findings about descending pain regulation during CIPN is reviewed considering the main neurochemical systems (serotoninergic and noradrenergic) targeted in CIPN management in patients, namely by antidepressants. In conclusion, this review highlights the importance of studying supraspinal areas involved in descending pain modulation to understand the pathophysiology of CIPN, which will probably allow a more personalized and effective CIPN treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mário Cunha
- Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.C.); (J.T.C.-P.)
| | - Isaura Tavares
- Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.C.); (J.T.C.-P.)
- I3S—Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - José Tiago Costa-Pereira
- Department of Biomedicine, Unit of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.C.); (J.T.C.-P.)
- I3S—Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
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Luo F, Huang C. New Insight into Neuropathic Pain: The Relationship between α7nAChR, Ferroptosis, and Neuroinflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6716. [PMID: 38928421 PMCID: PMC11203537 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126716] [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: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain, which refers to pain caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory system, represents a wide variety of peripheral or central disorders. Treating neuropathic pain is quite demanding, primarily because of its intricate underlying etiological mechanisms. The central nervous system relies on microglia to maintain balance, as they are associated with serving primary immune responses in the brain next to cell communication. Ferroptosis, driven by phospholipid peroxidation and regulated by iron, is a vital mechanism of cell death regulation. Neuroinflammation can be triggered by ferroptosis in microglia, which contributes to the release of inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, neuroinflammation can induce iron accumulation in microglia, resulting in microglial ferroptosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that neuroinflammation, characterized by glial cell activation and the release of inflammatory substances, significantly exacerbates the development of neuropathic pain. By inhibiting microglial ferroptosis, it may be possible to prevent neuroinflammation and subsequently alleviate neuropathic pain. The activation of the homopentameric α7 subtype of the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) has the potential to suppress microglial activation, transitioning M1 microglia to an M2 phenotype, facilitating the release of anti-inflammatory factors, and ultimately reducing neuropathic pain. Recent years have witnessed a growing recognition of the regulatory role of α7nAChR in ferroptosis, which could be a potential target for treating neuropathic pain. This review summarizes the mechanisms related to α7nAChR and the progress of ferroptosis in neuropathic pain according to recent research. Such an exploration will help to elucidate the relationship between α7nAChR, ferroptosis, and neuroinflammation and provide new insights into neuropathic pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangting Luo
- School of Public Health and Health Management, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China;
| | - Cheng Huang
- School of Public Health and Health Management, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China;
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China
- Pain Medicine Research Institute, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China
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Gupta A, Agarwal V. Inflammation as a shared mechanism of chronic stress related disorders with potential novel therapeutic targets. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03205-5. [PMID: 38850304 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03205-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Stress is a subjective experience that varies across individuals depending on their sensitivity, resilience, and length of exposure to stressors. Stress may be categorised as acute (positive stress) or chronic (negative stress). Acute stress is advantageous for the human body, but chronic stress results in changes in cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, autonomic, and immunological functions, eventually causing different illnesses. The specific process relating stress to chronic stress associated diseases is still a topic of continuing debate. Inflammation has been recognised as a new and fascinating physiological mechanism that connects chronic stress and its associated illnesses. This article explored the relationships between chronic stress, inflammation, and chronic illnesses, including depression, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. This article also emphasises on various possible therapeutic targets for the management of chronic stress related illnesses by targeting inflammation, namely lipoxins and alpha7 nicotinic receptors. These therapeutic targets may be useful in developing new and safe therapies for the management of chronic stress related dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anugya Gupta
- Faculty of Medical and Paramedical Sciences, Madhyanchal Professional University, Bhopal, 462044, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Vipul Agarwal
- Ankerite College of Pharmacy, Sausheer Khera, Parvar Purab, Mohanlalganj, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Liu J, Liu M, Shi S, Jiang F, Zhang Y, Guo J, Gong X. Evaluation of the effect of intraoperative tropisetron on postoperative rebound pain after brachial plexus block: a randomized controlled trial. Pain Rep 2024; 9:e1163. [PMID: 38756786 PMCID: PMC11098252 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Postoperative rebound pain after peripheral nerve block increases patient suffering and delays recovery after surgery. Objectives We tested whether the 5HT-3 receptor antagonist and α7nAChR agonist tropisetron could prevent postoperative rebound pain. Methods A total of 115 patients were randomized to receive 5-mg/5-mL tropisetron or the same volume of normal saline. Pain intensity was measured with the numerical rating scale of pain (NRS). Rebound pain was defined as a change from mild pain (NRS ≤ 3) measured in the postanesthesia care unit to severe pain (NRS ≥ 7) within 24 hours after peripheral nerve blockade. Logistic regression was used to identify relevant factors associated with postoperative rebound pain. Results Tropisetron did not affect the NRS score or the incidence of rebound pain after peripheral nerve block. Logistic regression revealed that preoperative pain, bone surgery, and length of incision were risk factors for postoperative rebound pain, and patient-controlled analgesia was protective against postoperative rebound pain. Conclusion Tropisetron does not affect the incidence of rebound pain after peripheral nerve block. Patients at high risk of postoperative rebound pain should be identified for appropriate management. Registration site: www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2300069994).
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Affiliation(s)
- Junli Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institution of Neuroscience and Brain Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Mingming Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institution of Neuroscience and Brain Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Shengnan Shi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institution of Neuroscience and Brain Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Fei Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institution of Neuroscience and Brain Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institution of Neuroscience and Brain Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institution of Neuroscience and Brain Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Xingrui Gong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institution of Neuroscience and Brain Disease, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
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9
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Mahdavi K, Zendehdel M, Zarei H. The role of central neurotransmitters in appetite regulation of broilers and layers: similarities and differences. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:1313-1328. [PMID: 38286893 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10312-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
The importance of feeding as a vital physiological function, on the one hand, and the spread of complications induced by its disorder in humans and animals, on the other hand, have led to extensive research on its regulatory factors. Unfortunately, despite many studies focused on appetite, only limited experiments have been conducted on avian, and our knowledge of this species is scant. Considering this, the purpose of this review article is to examine the role of central neurotransmitters in regulating food consumption in broilers and layers and highlight the similarities and differences between these two strains. The methodology of this review study includes a comprehensive search of relevant literature on the topic using appropriate keywords in reliable electronic databases. Based on the findings, the central effect of most neurotransmitters on the feeding of broilers and laying chickens was similar, but in some cases, such as dopamine, ghrelin, nitric oxide, and agouti-related peptide, differences were observed. Also, the lack of conducting a study on the role of some neurotransmitters in one of the bird strains made it impossible to make an exact comparison. Finally, it seems that although there are general similarities in appetite regulatory mechanisms in meat and egg-type chickens, the long-term genetic selection appropriate to breeding goals (meat or egg production) has caused differences in the effect of some neurotransmitters. Undoubtedly, conducting future studies while completing the missing links can lead to a comprehensive understanding of this process and its manipulation according to the breeding purposes of chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Mahdavi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, 14155-6453, Iran
| | - Morteza Zendehdel
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, 14155-6453, Iran.
| | - Hamed Zarei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Wu Q, Xia Y, Guo MS, Au TY, Yuen GKW, Kong I, Wang Z, Lin Y, Dong TTX, Tsim KWK. Acetylcholinesterase is regulated by exposure of ultraviolet B in skin keratinocytes: A potential inducer of cholinergic urticaria. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23641. [PMID: 38690717 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400146r] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Cholinergic urticaria is a dermatological disease characterized by the presence of large patches of red skin and transient hives triggered by factors, such as exercise, sweating, and psychological tension. This skin problem is hypothesized to be attributed to a reduced expression of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme responsible for hydrolyzing acetylcholine (ACh). Consequently, ACh is thought to the leak from sympathetic nerves to skin epidermis. The redundant ACh stimulates the mast cells to release histamine, triggering immune responses in skin. Here, the exposure of ultraviolet B in skin suppressed the expression of AChE in keratinocytes, both in in vivo and in vitro models. The decrease of the enzyme was resulted from a declined transcription of ACHE gene mediated by micro-RNAs, that is, miR-132 and miR-212. The levels of miR-132 and miR-212 were markedly induced by exposure to ultraviolet B, which subsequently suppressed the transcriptional rate of ACHE. In the presence of low level of AChE, the overflow ACh caused the pro-inflammatory responses in skin epidermis, including increased secretion of cytokines and COX-2. These findings suggest that ultraviolet B exposure is one of the factors contributing to cholinergic urticaria in skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyun Wu
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Hi-Tech Park, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yingjie Xia
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Maggie Suisui Guo
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tsz Yu Au
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gary K W Yuen
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ivan Kong
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhengqi Wang
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yingyi Lin
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tina T X Dong
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Hi-Tech Park, Shenzhen, China
| | - Karl W K Tsim
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Hi-Tech Park, Shenzhen, China
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Ventura-Martínez R, Ángeles-López GE, González-Ugalde D, Domínguez-Páez T, Navarrete-Vázquez G, Jaimez R, Déciga-Campos M. Antinociceptive effect of LMH-2, a new sigma-1 receptor antagonist analog of haloperidol, on the neuropathic pain of diabetic mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 174:116524. [PMID: 38574622 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
This study evaluates the antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects of LMH-2, a new haloperidol (HAL) analog that acts as sigma-1 receptor (σ1 R) antagonist, in diabetic mice using a model of neuropathic pain induced by chronic hyperglycemia. Additionally, we compared its effects with those of HAL. Hyperglycemia was induced in mice by nicotinamide-streptozotocin administration (NA-STZ, 50-130 mg/kg). Four weeks later, mechanical allodynia was assessed using the up-down method, and hyperalgesia was evoked with formalin 0.5%. We evaluated antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects of LMH-2 (5.6-56.2 mg/kg), HAL (0.018-0.18 mg/kg) and gabapentin (GBP, 5.6-56.2 mg/kg). The results showed that LMH-2 had a more significant antiallodynic effect compared to HAL and GBP (90.4±8.7 vs 75.1±3.1 and 41.9±2.3%, respectively; P<0.05), as well as an antihyperalgesic effect (96.3±1.2 vs 86.9±7.41 and 86.9±4.8%, respectively; P<0.05). Moreover, the antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effect of both LMH-2 and HAL were completely abolished by PRE-084 (σ1 R agonist); and partially by pramipexole (a D2-like receptor agonist). Finally, the effect of all treatments on the rotarod test, barra, open field and exploratory behaviors showed that LMH-2 did not alter the animals' balance or the exploratory behavior, unlike as HAL or GBP. The molecular docking included indicate that LMH-2 has lower affinity to the D2R than HAL. These results provide evidence that LMH-2 exerts its antinociceptive effects as a σ1 R antagonist without the adverse effects induced by HAL or GBP. Consequently, LMH-2 can be considered a good and safe strategy for treating neuropathic pain caused by hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Ventura-Martínez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Av Universidad No. 3000, Col. Ciudad Universitaria, Alcaldía Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | - Guadalupe Esther Ángeles-López
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Av Universidad No. 3000, Col. Ciudad Universitaria, Alcaldía Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Diana González-Ugalde
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Tania Domínguez-Páez
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Navarrete-Vázquez
- Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Ruth Jaimez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Av Universidad No. 3000, Col. Ciudad Universitaria, Alcaldía Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Myrna Déciga-Campos
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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12
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Slika E, Fuchs PA. Genetic tools for studying cochlear inhibition. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1372948. [PMID: 38560293 PMCID: PMC10978695 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1372948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Efferent feedback to the mammalian cochlea includes cholinergic medial olivocochlear neurons (MOCs) that release ACh to hyperpolarize and shunt the voltage change that drives electromotility of outer hair cells (OHCs). Via brainstem connectivity, MOCs are activated by sound in a frequency- and intensity-dependent manner, thereby reducing the amplification of cochlear vibration provided by OHC electromotility. Among other roles, this efferent feedback protects the cochlea from acoustic trauma. Lesion studies, as well as a variety of genetic mouse models, support the hypothesis of efferent protection from acoustic trauma. Genetic knockout and gain-of-function knockin of the unique α9α10-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) in hair cells show that acoustic protection correlates with the efficacy of cholinergic inhibition of OHCs. This protective effect was replicated by viral transduction of the gain-of-function α9L9'T nAChR into α9-knockout mice. Continued progress with "efferent gene therapy" will require a reliable method for visualizing nAChR expression in cochlear hair cells. To that end, mice expressing HA-tagged α9 or α10 nAChRs were generated using CRISPR technology. This progress will facilitate continued study of the hair cell nAChR as a therapeutic target to prevent hearing loss and potentially to ameliorate associated pathologies such as hyperacusis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Albert Fuchs
- The Center for Hearing and Balance, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins, University School of Medicine Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, United States
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13
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Cao X, Liu T, Wang T, Wang X, Xu Z, Zhou L, Tian C, Sun D. De Novo Screening and Mirror Image Isomerization of Linear Peptides Targeting α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:592-598. [PMID: 38380973 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
As ligand-gated ion channels, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems and are associated with the pathogenesis of various degenerative neurological diseases. Here, we report the results of phage display-based de novo screening of an 11-residue linear peptide (named LKP1794) that targets the α7 nAChR, which is among the most abundant nAChR subtypes in the brain. Moreover, two d-peptides were generated through mirror image and/or primary sequence inverso isomerization (termed DRKP1794 and DKP1794) and displayed improved inhibitory effects (IC50 = 0.86 and 0.35 μM, respectively) on α7 nAChR compared with the parent l-peptide LKP1794 (IC50 = 2.48 μM), which markedly enhanced serum stability. A peptide-based fluorescence probe was developed using proteolytically resistant DKP1794 to specifically image the α7 nAChR in living cells. This work provides a new peptide tool to achieve inhibitory modulation and specifically image the α7 nAChR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuxiu Cao
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, P. R. China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
| | - Tianqi Liu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
| | - Tao Wang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
| | - Xudong Wang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
| | - Ziyan Xu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
| | - Li Zhou
- Anhui Provincial Peptide Drug Laboratory, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
| | - Changlin Tian
- High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, P. R. China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
- Anhui Provincial Peptide Drug Laboratory, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Suzhou Institute for Advanced Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
- Beijing Life Science Academy, Beijing 102200, P. R. China
| | - Demeng Sun
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
- Anhui Provincial Peptide Drug Laboratory, Hefei 230026, P. R. China
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14
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Soares ÉN, Costa ACDS, Ferrolho GDJ, Ureshino RP, Getachew B, Costa SL, da Silva VDA, Tizabi Y. Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Glial Cells as Molecular Target for Parkinson's Disease. Cells 2024; 13:474. [PMID: 38534318 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by resting tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability that also includes non-motor symptoms such as mood dysregulation. Dopamine (DA) is the primary neurotransmitter involved in this disease, but cholinergic imbalance has also been implicated. Current intervention in PD is focused on replenishing central DA, which provides remarkable temporary symptomatic relief but does not address neuronal loss and the progression of the disease. It has been well established that neuronal nicotinic cholinergic receptors (nAChRs) can regulate DA release and that nicotine itself may have neuroprotective effects. Recent studies identified nAChRs in nonneuronal cell types, including glial cells, where they may regulate inflammatory responses. Given the crucial role of neuroinflammation in dopaminergic degeneration and the involvement of microglia and astrocytes in this response, glial nAChRs may provide a novel therapeutic target in the prevention and/or treatment of PD. In this review, following a brief discussion of PD, we focus on the role of glial cells and, specifically, their nAChRs in PD pathology and/or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Érica Novaes Soares
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Ana Carla Dos Santos Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Gabriel de Jesus Ferrolho
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Portes Ureshino
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema 09961-400, SP, Brazil
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Endocrinology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04039-032, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruk Getachew
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Howard University, 520 W Street NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Silvia Lima Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Victor Diogenes Amaral da Silva
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40110-902, BA, Brazil
| | - Yousef Tizabi
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Howard University, 520 W Street NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA
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15
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Dallanoce C, Richter K, Stokes C, Papotto C, Andleeb H, Thakur GA, Kerr A, Grau V, Papke RL. New Alpha9 nAChR Ligands Based on a 5-(Quinuclidin-3-ylmethyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazole Scaffold. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:827-843. [PMID: 38335726 PMCID: PMC11274740 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00720] [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] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Several lines of evidence have indicated that nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) that contain α9 subunits, probably in combination with α10 subunits, may be valuable targets for the management of pain associated with inflammatory diseases through a cholinergic anti-inflammatory system (CAS), which has also been associated with α7 nAChR. Both α7- and α9-containing neuronal nAChR can be pharmacologically distinguished from the high-affinity nicotinic receptors of the brain by their sensitivity to α-bungarotoxin, but in other ways, they have quite distinct pharmacological profiles. The early association of α7 with CAS led to the development of numerous new ligands, variously characterized as α7 agonists, partial agonists, or silent agonists that desensitized α7 receptors without activation. Subsequent reinvestigation of one such family of α7 ligands based on an N,N-diethyl-N'-phenylpiperazine scaffold led to the identification of potent agonists and antagonists for α9. In this paper, we characterize the α9/α10 activity of a series of compounds based on a 5-(quinuclidin-3-ylmethyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazole (QMO) scaffold and identify two new potent ligands of α9, QMO-28, an agonist, and QMO-17, an antagonist. We separated the stereoisomers of these compounds to identify the most potent agonist and discovered that only the 3R isomer of QMO-17 was an α9 antagonist, permitting an in silico model of α9 antagonism to be developed. The α9 activity of these compounds was confirmed to be potentially useful for CAS management of inflammatory pain in cell-based assays of cytokine release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clelia Dallanoce
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section "Pietro Pratesi″, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Katrin Richter
- Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, Laboratory of Experimental Surgery, Justus-Liebig-University, German Center for Lung Research [DZL], Cardio-Pulmonary Institute [CPI], Giessen 35390, Germany
| | - Clare Stokes
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, PO Box 100267, Gainesville, Florida 32610 United States
| | - Claudio Papotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section "Pietro Pratesi″, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Hina Andleeb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Ganesh A Thakur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Andrew Kerr
- United States Naval Research Laboratory, 6920 Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Veronika Grau
- Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, Laboratory of Experimental Surgery, Justus-Liebig-University, German Center for Lung Research [DZL], Cardio-Pulmonary Institute [CPI], Giessen 35390, Germany
| | - Roger L Papke
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, PO Box 100267, Gainesville, Florida 32610 United States
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16
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Wu X, Hone AJ, Huang YH, Clark RJ, McIntosh JM, Kaas Q, Craik DJ. Computational Design of α-Conotoxins to Target Specific Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Subtypes. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202302909. [PMID: 37910861 PMCID: PMC10872529 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202302909] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are drug targets for neurological diseases and disorders, but selective targeting of the large number of nAChR subtypes is challenging. Marine cone snail α-conotoxins are potent blockers of nAChRs and some have been engineered to achieve subtype selectivity. This engineering effort would benefit from rapid computational methods able to predict mutational energies, but current approaches typically require high-resolution experimental structures, which are not widely available for α-conotoxin complexes. Herein, five mutational energy prediction methods were benchmarked using crystallographic and mutational data on two acetylcholine binding protein/α-conotoxin systems. Molecular models were developed for six nAChR subtypes in complex with five α-conotoxins that were studied through 150 substitutions. The best method was a combination of FoldX and molecular dynamics simulations, resulting in a predictive Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) of 0.68 (85 % accuracy). Novel α-conotoxin mutants designed using this method were successfully validated by experimental assay with improved pharmaceutical properties. This work paves the way for the rapid design of subtype-specific nAChR ligands and potentially accelerated drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaosa Wu
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Arik J Hone
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
- MIRECC, George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Richard J Clark
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
- George E. Whalen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112, USA
| | - Quentin Kaas
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
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17
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Wang H, Li X, Qiao Y, Wang M, Wang W, McIntosh JM, Zhangsun D, Luo S. αO-Conotoxin GeXIVA[1,2] Reduced Neuropathic Pain and Changed Gene Expression in Chronic Oxaliplatin-Induced Neuropathy Mice Model. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:49. [PMID: 38276651 PMCID: PMC10821445 DOI: 10.3390/md22010049] [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: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a dose-limiting painful neuropathy that occurs commonly during cancer management, which often leads to the discontinuation of medication. Previous studies suggest that the α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR)-specific antagonist αO-conotoxin GeXIVA[1,2] is effective in CIPN models; however, the related mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we analyzed the preventive effect of GeXIVA[1,2] on neuropathic pain in the long-term oxaliplatin injection-induced CIPN model. At the end of treatment, lumbar (L4-L6) spinal cord was extracted, and RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were performed to investigate the potential genes and pathways related to CIPN and GeXIVA[1,2]. GeXIVA[1,2] inhibited the development of mechanical allodynia induced by chronic oxaliplatin treatment. Repeated injections of GeXIVA[1,2] for 3 weeks had no effect on the mice's normal pain threshold or locomotor activity and anxiety-like behavior, as evaluated in the open field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze (EPM). Our RNA sequencing results identified 209 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the CIPN model, and simultaneously injecting GeXIVA[1,2] with oxaliplatin altered 53 of the identified DEGs. These reverted genes were significantly enriched in immune-related pathways represented by the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway. Our findings suggest that GeXIVA[1,2] could be a potential therapeutic compound for chronic oxaliplatin-induced CIPN management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanbai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.W.); (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (W.W.)
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Special Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China;
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.W.); (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (W.W.)
| | - Yamin Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.W.); (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (W.W.)
| | - Meiting Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Special Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China;
| | - Wen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.W.); (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (W.W.)
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Special Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China;
| | - J. Michael McIntosh
- Department of Biology and Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA;
- George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Dongting Zhangsun
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.W.); (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (W.W.)
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Special Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China;
| | - Sulan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China; (H.W.); (X.L.); (Y.Q.); (W.W.)
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Special Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China;
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18
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George AA, John SJ, Lucero LM, Eaton JB, Jaiswal E, Christensen SB, Gajewiak J, Watkins M, Cao Y, Olivera BM, Im W, McIntosh JM, Whiteaker P. Analogs of α-conotoxin PnIC selectively inhibit α7β2- over α7-only subtype nicotinic acetylcholine receptors via a novel allosteric mechanism. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23374. [PMID: 38161283 PMCID: PMC10782225 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302079] [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: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to identify and characterize the first ligands capable of selectively identifying nicotinic acetylcholine receptors containing α7 and β2 subunits (α7β2-nAChR subtype). Basal forebrain cholinergic neurons express α7β2-nAChR. Here, they appear to mediate neuronal dysfunction induced by the elevated levels of oligomeric amyloid-β associated with early Alzheimer's disease. Additional work indicates that α7β2-nAChR are expressed across several further critically important cholinergic and GABAergic neuronal circuits within the central nervous system. Further studies, however, are significantly hindered by the inability of currently available ligands to distinguish heteromeric α7β2-nAChR from the closely related and more widespread homomeric α7-only-nAChR subtype. Functional screening using two-electrode voltage-clamp electrophysiology identified a family of α7β2-nAChR-selective analogs of α-conotoxin PnIC (α-CtxPnIC). A combined electrophysiology, functional kinetics, site-directed mutagenesis, and molecular dynamics approach was used to further characterize the α7β2-nAChR selectivity and site of action of these α-CtxPnIC analogs. We determined that α7β2-nAChR selectivity of α-CtxPnIC analogs arises from interactions at a site distinct from the orthosteric agonist-binding site shared between α7β2- and α7-only-nAChR. As numerous previously identified α-Ctx ligands are competitive antagonists of orthosteric agonist-binding sites, this study profoundly expands the scope of use of α-Ctx ligands (which have already provided important nAChR research and translational breakthroughs). More immediately, analogs of α-CtxPnIC promise to enable, for the first time, both comprehensive mapping of the distribution of α7β2-nAChR and detailed investigations of their physiological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A. George
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | - Sabin J. John
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Linda M. Lucero
- Department of NeurobiologyBarrow Neurological InstitutePhoenixArizonaUSA
| | - J. Brek Eaton
- Department of NeurobiologyBarrow Neurological InstitutePhoenixArizonaUSA
| | - Ekta Jaiswal
- Department of NeurobiologyBarrow Neurological InstitutePhoenixArizonaUSA
| | | | - Joanna Gajewiak
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Maren Watkins
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Yiwei Cao
- Department of ChemistryLehigh UniversityBethlehemPennsylvaniaUSA
| | | | - Wonpil Im
- Department of ChemistryLehigh UniversityBethlehemPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - J. Michael McIntosh
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical CenterSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of UtahSalt Lake CityUtahUSA
| | - Paul Whiteaker
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
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19
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Ojomoko LO, Kryukova EV, Egorova NS, Salikhov AI, Epifanova LA, Denisova DA, Khomutov AR, Sukhov DA, Vassilevski AA, Khomutov MA, Tsetlin VI, Shelukhina IV. Inhibition of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors by oligoarginine peptides and polyamine-related compounds. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1327603. [PMID: 38169863 PMCID: PMC10758494 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1327603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Oligoarginine peptides, known mostly for their cell-penetrating properties, are also inhibitors of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Since octa-arginine (R8) inhibits α9α10 nAChR and suppresses neuropathic pain, we checked if other polycationic compounds containing amino and/or guanidino groups could be effective and tested the activity of the disulfide-fixed "cyclo"R8, a series of biogenic polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine), C-methylated spermine analogs, agmatine and its analogs, as well as acylpolyamine argiotoxin-636 from spider venom. Their inhibitory potency on muscle-type, α7 and α9α10 nAChRs was determined using radioligand analysis, electrophysiology, and calcium imaging. "Cyclo"R8 showed similar activity to that of R8 against α9α10 nAChR (IC50 ≈ 60 nM). Biogenic polyamines as well as agmatine and its analogs displayed low activity on muscle-type Torpedo californica, as well as α7 and α9α10 nAChRs, which increased with chain length, the most active being spermine and its C-methylated derivatives having IC50 of about 30 μM against muscle-type T. californica nAChR. Argiotoxin-636, which contains a polyamine backbone and terminal guanidino group, also weakly inhibited T. californica nAChR (IC50 ≈ 15 μM), but it revealed high potency against rat α9α10 nAChR (IC50 ≈ 200 nM). We conclude that oligoarginines and similar polycationic compounds effectively inhibiting α9α10 nAChR may serve as a basis for the development of analgesics to reduce neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy O. Ojomoko
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena V. Kryukova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalya S. Egorova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Arthur I. Salikhov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Lyubov A. Epifanova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria A. Denisova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alex R. Khomutov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry A. Sukhov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander A. Vassilevski
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Maxim A. Khomutov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor I. Tsetlin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina V. Shelukhina
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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20
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Richter K, Herz SM, Stokes C, Damaj MI, Grau V, Papke RL. Pharmacological profiles and anti-inflammatory activity of pCN-diEPP and mCN-diEPP, new alpha9alpha10 nicotinic receptor ligands. Neuropharmacology 2023; 240:109717. [PMID: 37758018 PMCID: PMC11295495 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Pain due to inflammation can be reduced by targeting the noncanonical nicotinic receptors (NCNR) in cells of the immune system that regulate the synthesis and release of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Although NCNR do not generate ion channel currents, the pharmacology of ion-channel forms of the receptors can predict drugs which may be effective regulators of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory system (CAS). Agonists of α7 type receptors have been definitively associated with CAS. Receptors containing α9 and α10 subunits have also been implicated. We have recently characterized two small molecules, pCN-diEPP and mCN-diEPP, as selective α9α10 agonists and antagonists, respectively. We used these drugs, along with nicotine, an α7 agonist and α9α10 antagonist, to probe the mixed populations of receptors that are formed when α7, α9, and α10 are all expressed together in Xenopus oocytes. We also evaluated the effects of the CN-diEPP compounds on regulating the ATP-induced release of interleukin-1β from monocytic THP-1 cells, which express NCNR. The compounds successfully identified separate populations of receptors when all three subunits were co-expressed, including a potential population of homomeric α10 receptors. The α9α10 agonist pCN-diEPP was the more effective regulator of interleukin-1β release in THP-1 cells. pCN-diEPP was also fully effective in a mouse model of inflammatory pain, while mCN-diEPP had only partial effects, requiring a higher dosage. The analgetic effects of pCN-diEPP and mCN-diEPP were retained in α7 knockout mice. Taken together, our results suggest that drugs that selectively activate α9α10 receptors may useful to reduce inflammatory pain through the CAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Richter
- Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, Laboratory of Experimental Surgery, Justus-Liebig-University, German Center for Lung Research [DZL], Cardio-Pulmonary Institute [CPI], Giessen, Germany
| | - Sara M Herz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| | - Clare Stokes
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, PO Box 100267, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - M Imad Damaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA
| | - Veronika Grau
- Department of General and Thoracic Surgery, Laboratory of Experimental Surgery, Justus-Liebig-University, German Center for Lung Research [DZL], Cardio-Pulmonary Institute [CPI], Giessen, Germany
| | - Roger L Papke
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, PO Box 100267, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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21
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Montigné E, Balayssac D. Exploring Cholinergic Compounds for Peripheral Neuropathic Pain Management: A Comprehensive Scoping Review of Rodent Model Studies. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1363. [PMID: 37895835 PMCID: PMC10609809 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain affects about 7-8% of the population, and its management still poses challenges with unmet needs. Over the past decades, researchers have explored the cholinergic system (muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: mAChR and nAChR) and compounds targeting these receptors as potential analgesics for neuropathic pain management. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of studies on peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) in rodent models, exploring compounds targeting cholinergic neurotransmission. The inclusion criteria were original articles on PNP in rodent models that explored the use of compounds directly targeting cholinergic neurotransmission and reported results of nociceptive behavioral assays. The literature search was performed in the PubMed and Web of Science databases (1 January 2000-22 April 2023). The selection process yielded 82 publications, encompassing 62 compounds. The most studied compounds were agonists of α4β2 nAChR and α7 nAChR, and antagonists of α9/α10 nAChR, along with those increasing acetylcholine and targeting mAChRs. Studies mainly reported antinociceptive effects in traumatic PNP models, and to a lesser extent, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy or diabetic models. These preclinical studies underscore the considerable potential of cholinergic compounds in the management of PNP, warranting the initiation of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard Montigné
- INSERM, U1107, NEURO-DOL, Université Clermont Auvergne, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France;
| | - David Balayssac
- INSERM, U1107, NEURO-DOL, Université Clermont Auvergne, Direction de la Recherche Clinique et de l’Innovation, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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22
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Zhou L, Dau V, Jensen AA. Discovery of a Novel Class of Benzimidazole-Based Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Modulators: Positive and Negative Modulation Arising from Overlapping Allosteric Sites. J Med Chem 2023; 66:12586-12601. [PMID: 37650525 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Here, we present the discovery of a novel class of benzimidazole-based allosteric modulators of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). The modulators were developed based on a compound (1) exhibiting positive modulatory activity at α4β2 nAChR in a compound library screening by functional characterization of 100 analogues of 1 at nAChRs. Two distinct series of positive and negative allosteric modulators (PAMs and NAMs, respectively) comprising benzimidazole as a shared structural moiety emerged from this SAR study. The PAMs mediated weak modulation of α4β2 and α6β2β3, whereas the NAMs exhibited essentially equipotent inhibition of α4β2, α6β2β3, α6β4β3, and α3β4 nAChRs, with analogue 9j [2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)-1,3-dimethyl-1-H-benzo[d]imidazole-3-ium] displaying high-nanomolar and low-micromolar IC50 values at the β2- and β4-containing receptor subtypes, respectively. We propose that the PAMs and NAMs act through overlapping sites in the nAChR, and these findings thus underline the heterogenous modes of modulation that can arise from a shared allosteric site in the receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libin Zhou
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Vidan Dau
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anders A Jensen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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23
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Christie LA, Brice NL, Rowland A, Dickson L, Anand R, Teall M, Doyle KJ, Narayana L, Mitchell C, Harvey JRM, Mulligan V, Dawson LA, Cragg SJ, Carlton M, Bürli RW. Discovery of CVN417, a Novel Brain-Penetrant α6-Containing Nicotinic Receptor Antagonist for the Modulation of Motor Dysfunction. J Med Chem 2023; 66:11718-11731. [PMID: 37651656 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) α6 subunit RNA expression is relatively restricted to midbrain regions and is located presynaptically on dopaminergic neurons projecting to the striatum. This subunit modulates dopamine neurotransmission and may have therapeutic potential in movement disorders. We aimed to develop potent and selective α6-containing nAChR antagonists to explore modulation of dopamine release and regulation of motor function in vivo. High-throughput screening (HTS) identified novel α6-containing nAChR antagonists and led to the development of CVN417. This molecule blocks α6-containing nAChR activity in recombinant cells and reduces firing frequency of noradrenergic neurons in the rodent locus coeruleus. CVN417 modulated phasic dopaminergic neurotransmission in an impulse-dependent manner. In a rodent model of resting tremor, CVN417 attenuated this behavioral phenotype. These data suggest that selective antagonism of α6-containing nAChR, with molecules such as CVN417, may have therapeutic utility in treating the movement dysfunctions observed in conditions such as Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa A Christie
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola L Brice
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Rowland
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Dickson
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Rishi Anand
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Teall
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin J Doyle
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Lakshminarayana Narayana
- Aragen Lifesciences Limited, Plot #284A (part), Bommasandra-Jigani Link Road Industrial Area, Bengaluru 562106, India
| | - Christine Mitchell
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Jenna R M Harvey
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Mulligan
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Lee A Dawson
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie J Cragg
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Carlton
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Takeda Cambridge Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Roland W Bürli
- Cerevance Limited, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Cambridge CB4 0PZ, United Kingdom
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24
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Sun Y, Gu Y, Gao X, Jin X, Wink M, Sharopov FS, Yang L, Sethi G. Lycorine suppresses the malignancy of breast carcinoma by modulating epithelial mesenchymal transition and β-catenin signaling. Pharmacol Res 2023; 195:106866. [PMID: 37499704 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106866] [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: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Lycorine, an isoquinoline alkaloid can exhibit significant anti-cancer effects. The present study was conducted to illustrate the underlying mechanisms of action of lycorine on breast carcinoma under in vitro and in vivo settings Tandem Mass Tag assay and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed that 20 signaling pathways were closely related to tumorigenesis, especially Wnt signaling pathway and tight junctions. The results demonstrated that lycorine evidently inhibited the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells with IC50 values of 1.84 ± 0.21 μM and 7.76 ± 1.16 μM, respectively. It also blocked cell cycle in G2/M phase, caused a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, and induced apoptosis pathways through regulating caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and PARP expression. Moreover, lycorine effectively repressed the β-catenin signaling and reversed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Furthermore, 4T1/Luc homograft tumor model was used to further demonstrate that lycorine significantly inhibited the growth and metastasis of breast tumor. These findings highlight the significance of lycorine as potential anti-neoplastic agent to combat breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfang Sun
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, 928, No.2 Street, Qiantang District, Hangzhou 310018, China.
| | - Yi Gu
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, 928, No.2 Street, Qiantang District, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xiaoyan Gao
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, 928, No.2 Street, Qiantang District, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Xiaoyan Jin
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Zhejiang Taizhou Municipal Hospital, No. 218, Hengjie Road, Taizhou 318020, China
| | - Michael Wink
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 329, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Farukh S Sharopov
- Research Institution "Chinese-Tajik Innovation Center for Natural Products", National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, No. 267, Айнй Road, Dushanbe 734025, Tajikistan
| | - Linjun Yang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Zhejiang Taizhou Municipal Hospital, No. 218, Hengjie Road, Taizhou 318020, China.
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, NUS Centre for Cancer Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 16 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117600, Singapore..
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25
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Vallés AS, Barrantes FJ. Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Dysfunction in Addiction and in Some Neurodegenerative and Neuropsychiatric Diseases. Cells 2023; 12:2051. [PMID: 37626860 PMCID: PMC10453526 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The cholinergic system plays an essential role in brain development, physiology, and pathophysiology. Herein, we review how specific alterations in this system, through genetic mutations or abnormal receptor function, can lead to aberrant neural circuitry that triggers disease. The review focuses on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) and its role in addiction and in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases and epilepsy. Cholinergic dysfunction is associated with inflammatory processes mainly through the involvement of α7 nAChRs expressed in brain and in peripheral immune cells. Evidence suggests that these neuroinflammatory processes trigger and aggravate pathological states. We discuss the preclinical evidence demonstrating the therapeutic potential of nAChR ligands in Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and in autosomal dominant sleep-related hypermotor epilepsy. PubMed and Google Scholar bibliographic databases were searched with the keywords indicated below.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofía Vallés
- Bahía Blanca Institute of Biochemical Research (UNS-CONICET), Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina;
| | - Francisco J. Barrantes
- Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Faculty of Medical Sciences, Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina—National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 1600, Buenos Aires C1107AFF, Argentina
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26
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Alorfi NM. Pharmacological Methods of Pain Management: Narrative Review of Medication Used. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:3247-3256. [PMID: 37546242 PMCID: PMC10402723 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s419239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pain management is a critical aspect of healthcare, aimed at alleviating discomfort and improving the quality of life for individuals experiencing acute or chronic pain. Pharmacological methods constitute a primary approach to pain management, including a diverse array of drugs that work through different mechanisms. Aim Identifying medications commonly employed in pain management, focusing on their mechanism of actions, uses, efficacy and pharmacological applications. Methods The methodology involved a systematic search of scientific literature using various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Relevant articles published between 2000 and 2023 were screened for inclusion. The selected studies encompassed original research, review articles, therapeutic guidelines and randomized controlled trials. Results The findings of this review suggest that a multimodal approach combining various analgesics can enhance pain relief while minimizing adverse effects. It emphasizes the importance of assessing pain intensity, determining the underlying etiology, and utilizing evidence-based guidelines to optimize pain management outcomes. Conclusion Pharmacological methods of pain management are an essential component of pain management strategies to achieve optimal pain relief while minimizing adverse effects. The article concludes with a discussion on emerging trends and future directions in pharmacological pain management, including novel drug targets and advances in drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasser M Alorfi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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27
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Nakamura Y, Matsumoto H, Wu CH, Fukaya D, Uni R, Hirakawa Y, Katagiri M, Yamada S, Ko T, Nomura S, Wada Y, Komuro I, Nangaku M, Inagi R, Inoue T. Alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors signaling boosts cell-cell interactions in macrophages effecting anti-inflammatory and organ protection. Commun Biol 2023; 6:666. [PMID: 37353597 PMCID: PMC10290099 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05051-2] [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: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) via vagus nerve stimulation has been shown to improve acute kidney injury in rodent models. While alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) positive macrophages are thought to play a crucial role in this pathway, their in vivo significance has not been fully understood. In this study, we used macrophage-specific α7nAChR-deficient mice to confirm the direct activation of α7nAChRs in macrophages. Our findings indicate that the administration of GTS-21, an α7nAChR-specific agonist, protects injured kidneys in wild-type mice but not in macrophage-specific α7nAChR-deficient mice. To investigate the signal changes or cell reconstructions induced by α7nAChR activation in splenocytes, we conducted single-cell RNA-sequencing of the spleen. Ligand-receptor analysis revealed an increase in macrophage-macrophage interactions. Using macrophage-derived cell lines, we demonstrated that GTS-21 increases cell contact, and that the contact between macrophages receiving α7nAChR signals leads to a reduction in TNF-α. Our results suggest that α7nAChR signaling increases macrophage-macrophage interactions in the spleen and has a protective effect on the kidneys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuna Nakamura
- Department of Physiology of Visceral Function and Body Fluid, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Matsumoto
- School of Information and Data Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Chia-Hsien Wu
- Department of Physiology of Visceral Function and Body Fluid, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Daichi Fukaya
- Department of Nephrology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Rie Uni
- Division of CKD pathophysiology, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Hirakawa
- Division of Nephrology and Endocrinology, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mikako Katagiri
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shintaro Yamada
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Genome Science Division, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Ko
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Genome Science Division, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Seitaro Nomura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Genome Science Division, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Youichiro Wada
- Isotope Science Center, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Issei Komuro
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine the University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaomi Nangaku
- Division of Nephrology and Endocrinology, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reiko Inagi
- Division of CKD pathophysiology, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Inoue
- Department of Physiology of Visceral Function and Body Fluid, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan.
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28
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Souf YM, Lokaj G, Kuruva V, Saed Y, Raviglione D, Brik A, Nicke A, Inguimbert N, Dutertre S. Synthesis and Biological Activity of Novel α-Conotoxins Derived from Endemic Polynesian Cone Snails. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:356. [PMID: 37367681 DOI: 10.3390/md21060356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
α-Conotoxins are well-known probes for the characterization of the various subtypes of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Identifying new α-conotoxins with different pharmacological profiles can provide further insights into the physiological or pathological roles of the numerous nAChR isoforms found at the neuromuscular junction, the central and peripheral nervous systems, and other cells such as immune cells. This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of two novel α-conotoxins obtained from two species endemic to the Marquesas Islands, namely Conus gauguini and Conus adamsonii. Both species prey on fish, and their venom is considered a rich source of bioactive peptides that can target a wide range of pharmacological receptors in vertebrates. Here, we demonstrate the versatile use of a one-pot disulfide bond synthesis to achieve the α-conotoxin fold [Cys 1-3; 2-4] for GaIA and AdIA, using the 2-nitrobenzyl (NBzl) protecting group of cysteines for effective regioselective oxidation. The potency and selectivity of GaIA and AdIA against rat nicotinic acetylcholine receptors were investigated electrophysiologically and revealed potent inhibitory activities. GaIA was most active at the muscle nAChR (IC50 = 38 nM), whereas AdIA was most potent at the neuronal α6/3 β2β3 subtype (IC50 = 177 nM). Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of the structure-activity relationships of α-conotoxins, which may help in the design of more selective tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazid Mohamed Souf
- CRIOBE, UAR CNRS-EPHE-UPVD 3278, Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, 58 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan, France
| | - Gonxhe Lokaj
- Faculty of Medicine, Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Nußbaumstraße 26, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Veeresh Kuruva
- Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200008, Israel
| | - Yakop Saed
- Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200008, Israel
| | - Delphine Raviglione
- CRIOBE, UAR CNRS-EPHE-UPVD 3278, Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, 58 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan, France
| | - Ashraf Brik
- Schulich Faculty of Chemistry, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200008, Israel
| | - Annette Nicke
- Faculty of Medicine, Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Nußbaumstraße 26, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Nicolas Inguimbert
- CRIOBE, UAR CNRS-EPHE-UPVD 3278, Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, 58 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan, France
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Wu Y, Zhang J, Ren J, Zhu X, Li R, Zhangsun D, Luo S. Substitution of D-Arginine at Position 11 of α-RgIA Potently Inhibits α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:326. [PMID: 37367650 DOI: 10.3390/md21060326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Conotoxins are a class of disulfide-rich peptides found in the venom of cone snails, which have attracted considerable attention in recent years due to their potent activity on ion channels and potential for therapeutics. Among them, α-conotoxin RgIA, a 13-residue peptide, has shown great promise as a potent inhibitor of α9α10 nAChRs for pain management. In this study, we investigated the effect of substituting the naturally occurring L-type arginine at position 11 of the RgIA sequence with its D-type amino acid. Our results indicate that this substitution abrogated the ability of RgIA to block α9α10 nAChRs, but instead endowed the peptide with the ability to block α7 nAChR activity. Structural analyses revealed that this substitution induced significant alteration of the secondary structure of RgIA[11r], which consequently affected its activity. Our findings underscore the potential of D-type amino acid substitution as a promising strategy for designing novel conotoxin-based ligands targeting different types of nAChRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wu
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Junjie Zhang
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Jie Ren
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhu
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Rui Li
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Dongting Zhangsun
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Sulan Luo
- School of Medicine, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
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Giraudo A, Pallavicini M, Bolchi C. Small molecule ligands for α9* and α7 nicotinic receptors: a survey and an update, respectively. Pharmacol Res 2023; 193:106801. [PMID: 37236412 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The α9- and α7-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) mediate numerous physiological and pathological processes by complex mechanisms that are currently the subject of intensive study and debate. In this regard, selective ligands serve as invaluable investigative tools and, in many cases, potential therapeutics for the treatment of various CNS disfunctions and diseases, neuropathic pain, inflammation, and cancer. However, the present scenario differs significantly between the two aforementioned nicotinic subtypes. Over the past few decades, a large number of selective α7-nAChR ligands, including full, partial and silent agonists, antagonists, and allosteric modulators, have been described and reviewed. Conversely, reports on selective α9-containing nAChR ligands are relatively scarce, also due to a more recent characterization of this receptor subtype, and hardly any focusing on small molecules. In this review, we focus on the latter, providing a comprehensive overview, while providing only an update over the last five years for α7-nAChR ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Giraudo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, via Mangiagalli 25, I-20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Pallavicini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, via Mangiagalli 25, I-20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Cristiano Bolchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, via Mangiagalli 25, I-20133 Milano, Italy.
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Elgoyhen AB. The α9α10 acetylcholine receptor: a non-neuronal nicotinic receptor. Pharmacol Res 2023; 190:106735. [PMID: 36931539 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Within the superfamily of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels, cholinergic nicotinic receptors (nAChRs) were classically identified to mediate synaptic transmission in the nervous system and the neuromuscular junction. The α9 and α10 nAChR subunits were the last ones to be identified. Surprisingly, they do not fall into the dichotomic neuronal/muscle classification of nAChRs. They assemble into heteropentamers with a well-established function as canonical ion channels in inner ear hair cells, where they mediate central nervous system control of auditory and vestibular sensory processing. The present review includes expression, pharmacological, structure-function, molecular evolution and pathophysiological studies, that define receptors composed from α9 and α10 subunits as distant and distinct members within the nAChR family. Thus, although α9 and α10 were initially included within the neuronal subdivision of nAChR subunits, they form a distinct clade within the phylogeny of nAChRs. Following the classification of nAChR subunits based on their main synaptic site of action, α9 and α10 should receive a name in their own right.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Belén Elgoyhen
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular "Dr. Héctor N. Torres" (INGEBI), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina.
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