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Vázquez-Lizarraga R, Mendoza-Viveros L, Cid-Castro C, Ruiz-Montoya S, Carreño-Vázquez E, Orozco-Solis R. Hypothalamic circuits and aging: keeping the circadian clock updated. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1919-1928. [PMID: 38227516 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.389624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past century, age-related diseases, such as cancer, type-2 diabetes, obesity, and mental illness, have shown a significant increase, negatively impacting overall quality of life. Studies on aged animal models have unveiled a progressive discoordination at multiple regulatory levels, including transcriptional, translational, and post-translational processes, resulting from cellular stress and circadian derangements. The circadian clock emerges as a key regulator, sustaining physiological homeostasis and promoting healthy aging through timely molecular coordination of pivotal cellular processes, such as stem-cell function, cellular stress responses, and inter-tissue communication, which become disrupted during aging. Given the crucial role of hypothalamic circuits in regulating organismal physiology, metabolic control, sleep homeostasis, and circadian rhythms, and their dependence on these processes, strategies aimed at enhancing hypothalamic and circadian function, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, offer systemic benefits for healthy aging. Intranasal brain-directed drug administration represents a promising avenue for effectively targeting specific brain regions, like the hypothalamus, while reducing side effects associated with systemic drug delivery, thereby presenting new therapeutic possibilities for diverse age-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucia Mendoza-Viveros
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), México City, México
- Centro de Investigacíon sobre el Envejecimiento, Centro de Investigacíon y de Estudios Avanzados (CIE-CINVESTAV), México City, México
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México UNAM, México City, México
| | - Carolina Cid-Castro
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), México City, México
- Centro de Investigacíon sobre el Envejecimiento, Centro de Investigacíon y de Estudios Avanzados (CIE-CINVESTAV), México City, México
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México UNAM, México City, México
| | | | | | - Ricardo Orozco-Solis
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN), México City, México
- Centro de Investigacíon sobre el Envejecimiento, Centro de Investigacíon y de Estudios Avanzados (CIE-CINVESTAV), México City, México
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Xing C, Liu S, Wang L, Ma H, Zhou M, Zhong H, Zhu S, Wu Q, Ning G. Metformin enhances endogenous neural stem cells proliferation, neuronal differentiation, and inhibits ferroptosis through activating AMPK pathway after spinal cord injury. J Transl Med 2024; 22:723. [PMID: 39103875 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inadequate nerve regeneration and an inhibitory local microenvironment are major obstacles to the repair of spinal cord injury (SCI). The activation and differentiation fate regulation of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) represent one of the most promising repair approaches. Metformin has been extensively studied for its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and autophagy-regulating properties in central nervous system diseases. However, the effects of metformin on endogenous NSCs remains to be elucidated. METHODS The proliferation and differentiation abilities of NSCs were evaluated using CCK-8 assay, EdU/Ki67 staining and immunofluorescence staining. Changes in the expression of key proteins related to ferroptosis in NSCs were detected using Western Blot and immunofluorescence staining. The levels of reactive oxygen species, glutathione and tissue iron were measured using corresponding assay kits. Changes in mitochondrial morphology and membrane potential were observed using transmission electron microscopy and JC-1 fluorescence probe. Locomotor function recovery after SCI in rats was assessed through BBB score, LSS score, CatWalk gait analysis, and electrophysiological testing. The expression of the AMPK pathway was examined using Western Blot. RESULTS Metformin promoted the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of NSCs both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, a ferroptosis model of NSCs using erastin treatment was established in vitro, and metformin treatment could reverse the changes in the expression of key ferroptosis-related proteins, increase glutathione synthesis, reduce reactive oxygen species production and improve mitochondrial membrane potential and morphology. Moreover, metformin administration improved locomotor function recovery and histological outcomes following SCI in rats. Notably, all the above beneficial effects of metformin were completely abolished upon addition of compound C, a specific inhibitor of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). CONCLUSION Metformin, driven by canonical AMPK-dependent regulation, promotes proliferation and neuronal differentiation of endogenous NSCs while inhibiting ferroptosis, thereby facilitating recovery of locomotor function following SCI. Our study further elucidates the protective mechanism of metformin in SCI, providing new mechanistic insights for its candidacy as a therapeutic agent for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Xing
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Song Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Liyue Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongpeng Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Mi Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao Zhong
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Shibo Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiang Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Guangzhi Ning
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China.
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3
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Ríos JA, Bórquez JC, Godoy JA, Zolezzi JM, Furrianca MC, Inestrosa NC. Emerging role of Metformin in Alzheimer's disease: A translational view. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 100:102439. [PMID: 39074563 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102439] [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: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) constitutes a major public-health issue of our time. Regrettably, despite our considerable understanding of the pathophysiological aspects of this disease, current interventions lead to poor outcomes. Furthermore, experimentally promising compounds have continuously failed when translated to clinical trials. Along with increased population ageing, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) has become an extremely common condition, mainly due to unbalanced dietary habits. Substantial epidemiological evidence correlates T2DM with cognitive impairment as well. Considering that brain insulin resistance, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and amyloidogenesis are common phenomena, further approaching the common features among these pathological conditions. Metformin constitutes the first-choice drug to preclude insulin resistance in T2DM clinical management. Experimental evidence suggests that its functions might include neuroprotective effects, in addition to its hypoglycemic activity. This review aims to summarize and discuss current knowledge of experimental data on metformin on this path towards translational medicine. Finally, we discuss the controversial data of responses to metformin in vitro, and in vivo, animal models and human studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juvenal A Ríos
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Escuela de Medicina, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan Carlos Bórquez
- Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Juan A Godoy
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan M Zolezzi
- Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | | | - Nibaldo C Inestrosa
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile.
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4
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Zhao R. Can exercise benefits be harnessed with drugs? A new way to combat neurodegenerative diseases by boosting neurogenesis. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:36. [PMID: 39049102 PMCID: PMC11271207 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00428-7] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) is affected by multiple factors, such as enriched environment, exercise, ageing, and neurodegenerative disorders. Neurodegenerative disorders can impair AHN, leading to progressive neuronal loss and cognitive decline. Compelling evidence suggests that individuals engaged in regular exercise exhibit higher production of proteins that are essential for AHN and memory. Interestingly, specific molecules that mediate the effects of exercise have shown effectiveness in promoting AHN and cognition in different transgenic animal models. Despite these advancements, the precise mechanisms by which exercise mimetics induce AHN remain partially understood. Recently, some novel exercise molecules have been tested and the underlying mechanisms have been proposed, involving intercommunications between multiple organs such as muscle-brain crosstalk, liver-brain crosstalk, and gut-brain crosstalk. In this review, we will discuss the current evidence regarding the effects and potential mechanisms of exercise mimetics on AHN and cognition in various neurological disorders. Opportunities, challenges, and future directions in this research field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renqing Zhao
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, 88 South Daxue Road, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
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5
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Zhang S, Zou W, Leng Y, Mu Z, Zhan L. Neuroprotective Effects of Metformin on Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Modulation of JNK and p38 MAP Kinase Signaling Pathways. Cell Biochem Biophys 2024:10.1007/s12013-024-01373-y. [PMID: 39043960 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-024-01373-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) is a significant pathological process in stroke, characterized by neuronal cell death and neurological dysfunction. Metformin, commonly used for diabetes management, has been noted for its neuroprotective properties, though its effects on CIRI and the mechanisms involved remain unclear. This study explored the neuroprotective impact of metformin on CIRI, focusing on its potential to modulate the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAP kinase (p38) signaling pathways. Using in vitro models of oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) in neuronal cells and in vivo mouse models of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), the effects of metformin were assessed. Cell viability was measured with Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), protein expression via Western Blot (WB), and apoptosis through flow cytometry. The extent of brain injury in mice was evaluated using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, while JNK and p38 activation statuses were detected through WB and phospho-JNK (p-JNK) immunofluorescence staining. Results showed that metformin significantly improved the viability of HT22 cells post-OGD/R, reduced apoptosis, and decreased OGD/R-induced phosphorylation of JNK and p38 in vitro. In vivo, metformin treatment notably reduced brain infarct volume in MCAO mice, inhibited p-p38 and p-JNK expression, and enhanced neurological function. These findings suggest that metformin exerts neuroprotective effects against CIRI by modulating the JNK/p38 signaling pathway, highlighting its potential therapeutic value in treating cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and paving the way for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shicun Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province, 161000, China
| | - Wei Zou
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province, 161000, China
| | - Yan Leng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province, 161000, China
| | - Zhuang Mu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qiqihar First Hospital, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province, 161000, China.
| | - Lan Zhan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province, 161000, China.
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Leung JWH, Loan A, Xu Y, Yang G, Wang J, Chan HM. Reduction of Glyoxalase 1 Expression Links Fetal Methylmercury Exposure to Autism Spectrum Disorder Pathogenesis. TOXICS 2024; 12:449. [PMID: 39058101 PMCID: PMC11280772 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12070449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Glyoxalase 1 (Glo1) is an essential enzyme to detoxify methylglyoxal (MGO), a cytotoxic byproduct of glycolysis. Accumulating studies have shown an important role of Glo1 in regulating cortical development and neurogenesis, potentially contributing to the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when impaired. We have previously shown that prenatal exposure to non-apoptotic low-dose methylmercury (MeHg), an environmental pollutant, induces premature cortical neurogenesis and ASD-like behaviors in a rodent model. In this study, we aimed to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms that mediate prenatal MeHg-induced premature neuronal differentiation and abnormal neurodevelopment. Using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), we found that prenatal MeHg exposure at a non-apoptotic dose significantly reduced Glo1 gene expression in embryonic cultured radial glia precursors (RGPs). In cultured RGPs, the knockdown of Glo1 expression increased neuronal production at the expense of the cultured RGPs population, while overexpression of Glo1 restored MeHg-induced neuronal differentiation back to normal levels. Furthermore, we found that co-treatment with both MeHg and multiple MGO scavengers or a CREB inhibitor (iCREB) mitigated MeHg-induced premature neuronal differentiation, reinforcing the role of Glo1 and CREB in mediating MeHg-induced neuronal differentiation. Our findings demonstrate a direct link between MeHg exposure and expression of an ASD risk gene Glo1 in cortical development, supporting the important role of gene-environment interaction in contributing to the etiology of neural developmental disorders, such as ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Wai-Hin Leung
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; (J.W.-H.L.); (A.L.); (Y.X.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Allison Loan
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; (J.W.-H.L.); (A.L.); (Y.X.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Yilin Xu
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; (J.W.-H.L.); (A.L.); (Y.X.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada;
- Alberta Childrens’ Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Jing Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; (J.W.-H.L.); (A.L.); (Y.X.)
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Hing Man Chan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
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Pușcașu C, Negreș S, Zbârcea CE, Ungurianu A, Ștefănescu E, Blebea NM, Chiriță C. Evaluating the Antihyperalgesic Potential of Sildenafil-Metformin Combination and Its Impact on Biochemical Markers in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Neuropathy in Rats. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:783. [PMID: 38931450 PMCID: PMC11206800 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060783] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Globally, about 600 million people are afflicted with diabetes, and one of its most prevalent complications is neuropathy, a debilitating condition. At the present time, the exploration of novel therapies for alleviating diabetic-neuropathy-associated pain is genuinely captivating, considering that current therapeutic options are characterized by poor efficacy and significant risk of side effects. In the current research, we evaluated the antihyperalgesic effect the sildenafil (phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor)-metformin (antihyperglycemic agent) combination and its impact on biochemical markers in alloxan-induced diabetic neuropathy in rats. (2) Methods: This study involved a cohort of 70 diabetic rats and 10 non-diabetic rats. Diabetic neuropathy was induced by a single dose of 130 mg/kg alloxan. The rats were submitted to thermal stimulus test using a hot-cold plate and to tactile stimulus test using von Frey filaments. Moreover, at the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed and their brains and livers were collected to investigate the impact of this combination on TNF-α, IL-6, nitrites and thiols levels. (3) Results: The results demonstrated that all sildenafil-metformin combinations decreased the pain sensitivity in the von Frey test, hot plate test and cold plate test. Furthermore, alterations in nitrites and thiols concentrations and pro-inflammatory cytokines (specifically TNF-α and IL-6) were noted following a 15-day regimen of various sildenafil-metformin combinations. (4) Conclusions: The combination of sildenafil and metformin has a synergistic effect on alleviating pain in alloxan-induced diabetic neuropathy rats. Additionally, the combination effectively decreased inflammation, inhibited the rise in NOS activity, and provided protection against glutathione depletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciprian Pușcașu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Traian Vuia 6, 020956 Bucharest, Romania; (C.P.); (S.N.); (A.U.); (E.Ș.); (C.C.)
| | - Simona Negreș
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Traian Vuia 6, 020956 Bucharest, Romania; (C.P.); (S.N.); (A.U.); (E.Ș.); (C.C.)
| | - Cristina Elena Zbârcea
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Traian Vuia 6, 020956 Bucharest, Romania; (C.P.); (S.N.); (A.U.); (E.Ș.); (C.C.)
| | - Anca Ungurianu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Traian Vuia 6, 020956 Bucharest, Romania; (C.P.); (S.N.); (A.U.); (E.Ș.); (C.C.)
| | - Emil Ștefănescu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Traian Vuia 6, 020956 Bucharest, Romania; (C.P.); (S.N.); (A.U.); (E.Ș.); (C.C.)
| | - Nicoleta Mirela Blebea
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Ovidius” University of Constanța, Căpitan Aviator Al. Şerbănescu 6, 900470 Constanța, Romania;
| | - Cornel Chiriță
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Traian Vuia 6, 020956 Bucharest, Romania; (C.P.); (S.N.); (A.U.); (E.Ș.); (C.C.)
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Islam R, Noman H, Azimi A, Siu R, Chinchalongporn V, Schuurmans C, Morshead CM. Primitive and Definitive Neural Precursor Cells Are Present in Human Cerebral Organoids. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6549. [PMID: 38928255 PMCID: PMC11203442 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126549] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Activation of neural stem cells (NSCs) correlates with improved functional outcomes in mouse models of injury. In the murine brain, NSCs have been extensively characterized and comprise (1) primitive NSCs (pNSCs) and (2) definitive NSCs (dNSCs). pNSCs are the earliest cells in the NSC lineage giving rise to dNSCs in the embryonic and adult mouse brain. pNSCs are quiescent under baseline conditions and can be activated upon injury. Herein, we asked whether human pNSCs and dNSCs can be isolated during the maturation of human cerebral organoids (COs) and activated by drugs known to regulate mouse NSC behavior. We demonstrate that self-renewing, multipotent pNSC and dNSC populations are present in human COs and express genes previously characterized in mouse NSCs. The drug NWL283, an inhibitor of apoptosis, reduced cell death in COs but did not improve NSC survival. Metformin, a drug used to treat type II diabetes that is known to promote NSC activation in mice, was found to expand human NSC pools. Together, these findings are the first to identify and characterize human pNSCs, advancing our understanding of the human NSC lineage and highlighting drugs that enhance their activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehnuma Islam
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Humna Noman
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Ashkan Azimi
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - Ricky Siu
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | | | - Carol Schuurmans
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Cindi M. Morshead
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
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Vizuete AFK, Fróes F, Seady M, Hansen F, Ligabue-Braun R, Gonçalves CA, Souza DO. A Mechanism of Action of Metformin in the Brain: Prevention of Methylglyoxal-Induced Glutamatergic Impairment in Acute Hippocampal Slices. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3223-3239. [PMID: 37980327 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03774-1] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Metformin, a biguanide compound (N-1,1-dimethylbiguanide), is widely prescribed for diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2D) treatment. It also presents a plethora of properties, such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis, anti-tumorigenic, and anti-AGE formation activity. However, the precise mechanism of action of metformin in the central nervous system (CNS) needs to be clarified. Herein, we investigated the neuroprotective role of metformin in acute hippocampal slices exposed to methylglyoxal (MG), a highly reactive dicarbonyl compound and a key molecule in T2D developmental pathophysiology. Metformin protected acute hippocampal slices from MG-induced glutamatergic neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation by reducing IL-1β synthesis and secretion and RAGE protein expression. The drug also improved astrocyte function, particularly with regard to the glutamatergic system, increasing glutamate uptake. Moreover, we observed a direct effect of metformin on glutamate transporters, where the compound prevented glycation, by facilitating enzymatic phosphorylation close to Lys residues, suggesting a new neuroprotective role of metformin via PKC ζ in preventing dysfunction in glutamatergic system induced by MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Fernanda K Vizuete
- Laboratory of Calcium-Binding Proteins in the CNS, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Post Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Fróes
- Laboratory of Calcium-Binding Proteins in the CNS, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Post Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Marina Seady
- Laboratory of Calcium-Binding Proteins in the CNS, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Post Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Hansen
- Department of Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun
- Department of Pharmacosciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Avenida Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre, 90050-130, Brazil
| | - Carlos-Alberto Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Calcium-Binding Proteins in the CNS, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Post Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Diogo O Souza
- Post Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, UFRGS, Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
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Aksoz E, Akyol BA, Korkut O. The role of the cholinergic system in the memory-protecting effects of metformin in a model of scopolamine-induced memory impairment in aged rats. Behav Brain Res 2024; 466:114978. [PMID: 38582410 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114978] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE As the elderly population grows, the prevalence of dementia is also rapidly increasing worldwide. Metformin, an antidiabetic drug, has been shown to have ameliorative effects on impaired cognitive functions in experimental models. However, studies have generally used young animals. Additionally, although it has a major role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and memory, literature information about the effects of metformin on the cholinergic system is limited. In this study, we investigated the effects of metformin on memory in a model of scopolamine-induced memory impairment in aged rats. We also examined the effects of metformin on the cholinergic system, which is very important in cognitive functions. METHODS Metformin was administered orally to male Wistar rats (20-22 months old) at 100 mg/kg/day for three weeks. Morris water maze (MWM) tests were performed to assess spatial memory. Before the probe test of the MWM test, scopolamine was injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 1 mg/kg. After testing, animals were sacrificed, whole brains were removed, and hippocampus samples were separated for biochemical analysis. RESULTS Impaired memory associated with scopolamine administration was reversed by metformin. In addition, metformin administration ameliorated scopolamine-induced changes in acetylcholine (ACh) levels, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity. CONCLUSION Our results show that metformin may have protective effects in a scopolamine-induced memory impairment model in aged animals by improving cholinergic function. Metformin shows promise in preventing dementia with its dual cholinesterase inhibition and ChAT activation effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Aksoz
- Balikesir University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology, Cagis Campus, Balikesir, Turkey.
| | - Busra Aslan Akyol
- Balikesir University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Cagis Campus, Balikesir, Turkey
| | - Oguzhan Korkut
- Balikesir University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Pharmacology, Cagis Campus, Balikesir, Turkey
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11
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Pourfridoni M, Hedayati-Moghadam M, Fathi S, Fathi S, Mirrashidi FS, Askarpour H, Shafieemojaz H, Baghcheghi Y. Beneficial effects of metformin treatment on memory impairment. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:640. [PMID: 38727848 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09445-1] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Memory issues are a prevalent symptom in different neurodegenerative diseases and can also manifest in certain psychiatric conditions. Despite limited medications approved for treating memory problems, research suggests a lack of sufficient options in the market. Studies indicate that a significant percentage of elderly individuals experience various forms of memory disorders. Metformin, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, has shown neuroprotective properties through diverse mechanisms. This study explores the potential of metformin in addressing memory impairments. The current research gathered its data by conducting an extensive search across electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Previous research suggests that metformin enhances brain cell survival and memory function in both animal and clinical models by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death while increasing beneficial neurotrophic factors. The findings of the research revealed that metformin is an effective medication for enhancing various types of memory problems in numerous studies. Given the rising incidence of memory disorders, it is plausible to utilize metformin, which is an affordable and accessible drug. It is often recommended as a treatment to boost memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Pourfridoni
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Mahdiyeh Hedayati-Moghadam
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Shirin Fathi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Shiva Fathi
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sadat Mirrashidi
- Departrment of Pediatrics, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Hedyeh Askarpour
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Hadi Shafieemojaz
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Yousef Baghcheghi
- Student Research Committee, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
- Clinical Research Development Center of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
- Bio Environmental Health Hazards Research Center, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
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12
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Loan A, Syal C, Lui M, He L, Wang J. Promising use of metformin in treating neurological disorders: biomarker-guided therapies. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1045-1055. [PMID: 37862207 PMCID: PMC10749596 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385286] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are a diverse group of conditions that affect the nervous system and include neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease), cerebrovascular conditions (stroke), and neurodevelopmental disorders (autism spectrum disorder). Although they affect millions of individuals around the world, only a limited number of effective treatment options are available today. Since most neurological disorders express mitochondria-related metabolic perturbations, metformin, a biguanide type II antidiabetic drug, has attracted a lot of attention to be repurposed to treat neurological disorders by correcting their perturbed energy metabolism. However, controversial research emerges regarding the beneficial/detrimental effects of metformin on these neurological disorders. Given that most neurological disorders have complex etiology in their pathophysiology and are influenced by various risk factors such as aging, lifestyle, genetics, and environment, it is important to identify perturbed molecular functions that can be targeted by metformin in these neurological disorders. These molecules can then be used as biomarkers to stratify subpopulations of patients who show distinct molecular/pathological properties and can respond to metformin treatment, ultimately developing targeted therapy. In this review, we will discuss mitochondria-related metabolic perturbations and impaired molecular pathways in these neurological disorders and how these can be used as biomarkers to guide metformin-responsive treatment for the targeted therapy to treat neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Loan
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Charvi Syal
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Margarita Lui
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ling He
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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13
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Achanta LB, Thomas DS, Housley GD, Rae CD. AMP-activated protein kinase activators have compound and concentration-specific effects on brain metabolism. J Neurochem 2024; 168:677-692. [PMID: 36977628 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15815] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key sensor of energy balance playing important roles in the balancing of anabolic and catabolic activities. The high energy demands of the brain and its limited capacity to store energy indicate that AMPK may play a significant role in brain metabolism. Here, we activated AMPK in guinea pig cortical tissue slices, both directly with A769662 and PF 06409577 and indirectly with AICAR and metformin. We studied the resultant metabolism of [1-13C]glucose and [1,2-13C]acetate using NMR spectroscopy. We found distinct activator concentration-dependent effects on metabolism, which ranged from decreased metabolic pool sizes at EC50 activator concentrations with no expected stimulation in glycolytic flux to increased aerobic glycolysis and decreased pyruvate metabolism with certain activators. Further, activation with direct versus indirect activators produced distinct metabolic outcomes at both low (EC50) and higher (EC50 × 10) concentrations. Specific direct activation of β1-containing AMPK isoforms with PF 06409577 resulted in increased Krebs cycle activity, restoring pyruvate metabolism while A769662 increased lactate and alanine production, as well as labelling of citrate and glutamine. These results reveal a complex metabolic response to AMPK activators in brain beyond increased aerobic glycolysis and indicate that further research is warranted into their concentration- and mechanism-dependent impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavanya B Achanta
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker St, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Donald S Thomas
- Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Gary D Housley
- Translational Neuroscience Facility, School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Caroline D Rae
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Barker St, Randwick, New South Wales, 2031, Australia
- School of Psychology, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
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14
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Syzdykbayev M, Kazymov M, Aubakirov M, Kurmangazina A, Kairkhanov E, Kazangapov R, Bryzhakhina Z, Imangazinova S, Sheinin A. A Modern Approach to the Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:10. [PMID: 38786549 PMCID: PMC11123131 DOI: 10.3390/medicines11050010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Background: Traumatic brain injury manifests itself in various forms, ranging from mild impairment of consciousness to severe coma and death. Traumatic brain injury remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Currently, there is no therapy to reverse the effects associated with traumatic brain injury. New neuroprotective treatments for severe traumatic brain injury have not achieved significant clinical success. Methods: A literature review was performed to summarize the recent interdisciplinary findings on management of traumatic brain injury from both clinical and experimental perspective. Results: In the present review, we discuss the concepts of traditional and new approaches to treatment of traumatic brain injury. The recent development of different drug delivery approaches to the central nervous system is also discussed. Conclusions: The management of traumatic brain injury could be aimed either at the pathological mechanisms initiating the secondary brain injury or alleviating the symptoms accompanying the injury. In many cases, however, the treatment should be complex and include a variety of medical interventions and combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marat Syzdykbayev
- Department of Hospital Surgery, Anesthesiology and Reanimatology, Semey Medical University, Semey 071400, Kazakhstan
| | - Maksut Kazymov
- Department of General Practitioners, Semey Medical University, Semey 071400, Kazakhstan
| | - Marat Aubakirov
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Semey Medical University, Semey 071400, Kazakhstan
| | - Aigul Kurmangazina
- Committee for Medical and Pharmaceutical Control of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan for East Kazakhstan Region, Ust-Kamenogorsk 070004, Kazakhstan
| | - Ernar Kairkhanov
- Pavlodar Branch of Semey Medical University, Pavlodar S03Y3M1, Kazakhstan
| | - Rustem Kazangapov
- Pavlodar Branch of Semey Medical University, Pavlodar S03Y3M1, Kazakhstan
| | - Zhanna Bryzhakhina
- Department Psychiatry and Narcology, Semey Medical University, Semey 071400, Kazakhstan
| | - Saule Imangazinova
- Department of Therapy, Astana Medical University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Anton Sheinin
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
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15
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Hassan YR, El-Shiekh RA, El Hefnawy HM, Mohamed OG, Abu-Elfotuh K, Hamdan AM, Darwish A, Gowifel AMH, Tripathi A, Michael CG. A mechanistic exploration of the metabolome of African mango seeds and its potential to alleviate cognitive impairment induced by high-fat/high-carbohydrate diets: Involvement of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β/CREB, PERK/CHOP/Bcl-2, and AMPK/SIRT-1/mTOR Axes. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 324:117747. [PMID: 38218500 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117747] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Irvingia gabonensis (Aubry-Lecomte ex O'Rorke) Baill., also known as "African mango" or "bush mango", belonging to family Irvingiaceae, has been mostly used as food and traditional medicine for weight loss and to enhance the health. AIM OF THE STUDY The overconsumption of high-fat and high-carbohydrate (HFHC) food induces oxidative stress, leading to neurological and cognitive dysfunction. Consequently, there is an immediate need for effective treatment. Hence, this study explored the efficacy of orlistat, metformin, and I. gabonensis seeds' total aqueous extract (IG SAE) in addressing HFHC-induced cognitive impairment by mitigating oxidative stress and their underlying mechanistic pathways. MATERIALS AND METHODS Initially, the secondary metabolite profile of IG SAE is determined using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a mass detector (UHPLC/MS). The in vivo study involves two phases: an established model phase with control (10 rats on a standard diet) and HFHC diet group (50 rats) for 3 months. In the study phase, HFHC is divided into 5 groups. The first subgroup receives HFHC diet only, while the remaining groups each receive HFHC diet with either Orlistat, metformin, or IG SAE at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, respectively, for 28 days. RESULTS More than 150 phytoconstituents were characterized for the first holistic approach onto IG metabolome. Characterization of IG SAE revealed that tannins dominate metabolites in the plant. Total phenolics and flavonoids were estimated to standardize our extract (77.12 ± 7.09 μg Gallic acid equivalent/mg extract and 8.039 ± 0.53 μg Rutin equivalent/mg extract, respectively). Orlistat, metformin, and IG SAE successfully reduced the body weight, blood glucose level, lipid profile, oxidative stress and neurotransmitters levels leading to improved behavioral functions as well as histological alternation. Also, IG SAE halted inflammation, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, together with promoting autophagy, via modulation of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β/CREB, PERK/CHOP/Bcl-2 and AMPK/SIRT-1/m-TOR pathways. CONCLUSION Metformin, orlistat, and IG SAE offer a promising multi-target therapy to mitigate HFHC diet-induced oxidative stress, addressing cognitive function. This involves diverse molecular mechanisms, particularly the modulation of inflammation, ER stress, and both PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β/CREB and AMPK/SIRT-1/m-TOR pathways. Furthermore, the higher dose of IG SAE demonstrated effects comparable to orlistat and metformin across most studied parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Riham A El-Shiekh
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Hala M El Hefnawy
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Osama G Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt; Natural Products Discovery Core, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Karema Abu-Elfotuh
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt; Al-Ayen Iraqi University, Thi-Qar, 64001, Iraq
| | - Ahmed M Hamdan
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alshaymaa Darwish
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt.
| | - Ayah M H Gowifel
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Modern University for Technology and Information (MTI), Cairo, 11571, Egypt.
| | - Ashootosh Tripathi
- Natural Products Discovery Core, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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16
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Arezoumand KS, Roberts CT, Rastegar M. Metformin Induces MeCP2 in the Hippocampus of Male Mice with Sex-Specific and Brain-Region-Dependent Molecular Impact. Biomolecules 2024; 14:505. [PMID: 38672521 PMCID: PMC11048179 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040505] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a progressive X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder with no cure. RTT patients show disease-associated symptoms within 18 months of age that include developmental regression, progressive loss of useful hand movements, and breathing difficulties, along with neurological impairments, seizures, tremor, and mental disability. Rett Syndrome is also associated with metabolic abnormalities, and the anti-diabetic drug metformin is suggested to be a potential drug of choice with low or no side-effects. Previously, we showed that in vitro exposure of metformin in a human brain cell line induces MECP2E1 transcripts, the dominant isoform of the MECP2 gene in the brain, mutations in which causes RTT. Here, we report the molecular impact of metformin in mice. Protein analysis of specific brain regions in the male and female mice by immunoblotting indicated that metformin induces MeCP2 in the hippocampus, in a sex-dependent manner. Additional experiments confirm that the regulatory role of metformin on the MeCP2 target "BDNF" is brain region-dependent and sex-specific. Measurement of the ribosomal protein S6 (in both phosphorylated and unphosphorylated forms) confirms the sex-dependent role of metformin in the liver. Our results can help foster a better understanding of the molecular impact of metformin in different brain regions of male and female adult mice, while providing some insight towards its potential in therapeutic strategies for the treatment of Rett Syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mojgan Rastegar
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada
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17
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Tresenrider A, Hooper M, Todd L, Kierney F, Blasdel N, Trapnell C, Reh TA. A multiplexed, single-cell sequencing screen identifies compounds that increase neurogenic reprogramming of murine Muller glia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.26.559569. [PMID: 37808650 PMCID: PMC10557658 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.26.559569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration in mammals causes permanent loss of vision, due to an inability to regenerate naturally. Some non-mammalian vertebrates show robust regeneration, via Muller glia (MG). We have recently made significant progress in stimulating adult mouse MG to regenerate functional neurons by transgenic expression of the proneural transcription factor Ascl1. While these results showed that MG can serve as an endogenous source of neuronal replacement, the efficacy of this process is limited. With the goal of improving this in mammals, we designed a small molecule screen using sci-Plex, a method to multiplex up to thousands of single nucleus RNA-seq conditions into a single experiment. We used this technology to screen a library of 92 compounds, identified, and validated two that promote neurogenesis in vivo. Our results demonstrate that high-throughput single-cell molecular profiling can substantially improve the discovery process for molecules and pathways that can stimulate neural regeneration and further demonstrate the potential for this approach to restore vision in patients with retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Tresenrider
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Marcus Hooper
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Levi Todd
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Faith Kierney
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Nicolai Blasdel
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Cole Trapnell
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Brotman-Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Allen Discovery Center for Cell Lineage Tracing, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Thomas A. Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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18
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Froldi G. View on Metformin: Antidiabetic and Pleiotropic Effects, Pharmacokinetics, Side Effects, and Sex-Related Differences. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:478. [PMID: 38675438 PMCID: PMC11054066 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040478] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a synthetic biguanide used as an antidiabetic drug in type 2 diabetes mellitus, achieved by studying the bioactive metabolites of Galega officinalis L. It is also used off-label for various other diseases, such as subclinical diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, etc. In addition, metformin is proposed as an add-on therapy for several conditions, including autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Although metformin has been used for many decades, it is still the subject of many pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies in light of its extensive use. Metformin acts at the mitochondrial level by inhibiting the respiratory chain, thus increasing the AMP/ATP ratio and, subsequently, activating the AMP-activated protein kinase. However, several other mechanisms have been proposed, including binding to presenilin enhancer 2, increasing GLP1 release, and modification of microRNA expression. Regarding its pharmacokinetics, after oral administration, metformin is absorbed, distributed, and eliminated, mainly through the renal route, using transporters for cationic solutes, since it exists as an ionic molecule at physiological pH. In this review, particular consideration has been paid to literature data from the last 10 years, deepening the study of clinical trials inherent to new uses of metformin, the differences in effectiveness and safety observed between the sexes, and the unwanted side effects. For this last objective, metformin safety was also evaluated using both VigiBase and EudraVigilance, respectively, the WHO and European databases of the reported adverse drug reactions, to assess the extent of metformin side effects in real-life use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmina Froldi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
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19
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González-Flores D, Márquez A, Casimiro I. Oxidative Effects in Early Stages of Embryo Development Due to Alcohol Consumption. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4100. [PMID: 38612908 PMCID: PMC11012856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074100] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol, a widely consumed drug, exerts significant toxic effects on the human organism. This review focuses on its impact during fetal development, when it leads to a spectrum of disorders collectively termed Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Children afflicted by FASD exhibit distinct clinical manifestations, including facial dysmorphism, delayed growth, and neurological and behavioral disorders. These behavioral issues encompass diminished intellectual capacity, memory impairment, and heightened impulsiveness. While the precise mechanisms underlying alcohol-induced fetal damage remain incompletely understood, research indicates a pivotal role for reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are released during alcohol metabolism, inciting inflammation at the cerebral level. Ethanol metabolism amplifies the generation of oxidant molecules, inducing through alterations in enzymatic and non-enzymatic systems responsible for cellular homeostasis. Alcohol consumption disrupts endogenous enzyme activity and fosters lipid peroxidation in consumers, potentially affecting the developing fetus. Addressing this concern, administration of metformin during the prenatal period, corresponding to the third trimester of human pregnancy, emerges as a potential therapeutic intervention for mitigating FASD. This proposed approach holds promise for ameliorating the adverse effects of alcohol exposure on fetal development and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David González-Flores
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Zoology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain
| | - Antonia Márquez
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Zoology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain
| | - Ilda Casimiro
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain;
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20
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Mattson MP, Leak RK. The hormesis principle of neuroplasticity and neuroprotection. Cell Metab 2024; 36:315-337. [PMID: 38211591 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Animals live in habitats fraught with a range of environmental challenges to their bodies and brains. Accordingly, cells and organ systems have evolved stress-responsive signaling pathways that enable them to not only withstand environmental challenges but also to prepare for future challenges and function more efficiently. These phylogenetically conserved processes are the foundation of the hormesis principle, in which single or repeated exposures to low levels of environmental challenges improve cellular and organismal fitness and raise the probability of survival. Hormetic principles have been most intensively studied in physical exercise but apply to numerous other challenges known to improve human health (e.g., intermittent fasting, cognitive stimulation, and dietary phytochemicals). Here we review the physiological mechanisms underlying hormesis-based neuroplasticity and neuroprotection. Approaching natural resilience from the lens of hormesis may reveal novel methods for optimizing brain function and lowering the burden of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Mattson
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Rehana K Leak
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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21
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Zhao R. Exercise mimetics: a novel strategy to combat neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's disease. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:40. [PMID: 38308368 PMCID: PMC10837901 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03031-9] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterized by the stimulation of resident immune cells of the brain and the penetration of peripheral immune cells. These inflammatory processes facilitate the deposition of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and the abnormal hyperphosphorylation of tau protein. Managing neuroinflammation to restore immune homeostasis and decrease neuronal damage is a therapeutic approach for AD. One way to achieve this is through exercise, which can improve brain function and protect against neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and synaptic dysfunction in AD models. The neuroprotective impact of exercise is regulated by various molecular factors that can be activated in the same way as exercise by the administration of their mimetics. Recent evidence has proven some exercise mimetics effective in alleviating neuroinflammation and AD, and, additionally, they are a helpful alternative option for patients who are unable to perform regular physical exercise to manage neurodegenerative disorders. This review focuses on the current state of knowledge on exercise mimetics, including their efficacy, regulatory mechanisms, progress, challenges, limitations, and future guidance for their application in AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renqing Zhao
- College of Physical Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.
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22
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Sharma K, Puranik N, Yadav D. Neural Stem Cell-based Regenerative Therapy: A New Approach to Diabetes Treatment. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2024; 24:531-540. [PMID: 37183465 DOI: 10.2174/1871530323666230512121416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common metabolic disorder that occurs due to the loss, or impaired function of insulin-secreting pancreatic beta cells, which are of two types - type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D). To cure DM, the replacement of the destroyed pancreatic beta cells of islet of Langerhans is the most widely practiced treatment. For this, isolating neuronal stem cells and cultivating them as a source of renewable beta cells is a significant breakthrough in medicine. The functions, growth, and gene expression of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells and neurons are very similar in many ways. A diabetic patient's neural stem cells (obtained from the hippocampus and olfactory bulb) can be used as a replacement source of beta cells for regenerative therapy to treat diabetes. The same protocol used to create functional neurons from progenitor cells can be used to create beta cells. Recent research suggests that replacing lost pancreatic beta cells with autologous transplantation of insulin-producing neural progenitor cells may be a perfect therapeutic strategy for diabetes, allowing for a safe and normal restoration of function and a reduction in potential risks and a long-term cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kajal Sharma
- School of Sciences in Biotechnology, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, 474011, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Nidhi Puranik
- Department of Bio-logical Sciences, Bharathiar University, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dhananjay Yadav
- Department of Life Science, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Korea
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23
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Gilbert EAB, Livingston J, Flores EG, Khan M, Kandavel H, Morshead CM. Metformin treatment reduces inflammation, dysmyelination and disease severity in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Brain Res 2024; 1822:148648. [PMID: 37890574 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148648] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, death or damage of oligodendrocytes, and axonal degeneration. Current MS treatments are non-curative, associated with undesired side-effects, and expensive, highlighting the need for expanded therapeutic options for patients. There is great interest in developing interventions using drugs or therapeutics to reduce symptom onset and protect pre-existing myelin. Metformin is a well-tolerated drug used to treat Type 2 diabetes that has pleiotropic effects in the central nervous system (CNS), including reducing inflammation, enhancing oligodendrogenesis, increasing the survival/proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs), and increasing myelination. Here, we investigated whether metformin administration could improve functional outcomes, modulate oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), and reduce inflammation in a well-established mouse model of MS- experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Male and female mice received metformin treatment at the time of EAE induction ("acute") or upon presentation of disease symptoms ("delayed"). We found that acute metformin treatment improved functional outcomes, concomitant with reduced microglia numbers and decreased dysmyelination. Conversely, delayed metformin treatment did not improve functional outcomes. Our findings reveal that metformin administration can improve EAE outcomes when administered before symptom onset in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A B Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Jessica Livingston
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Emilio Garcia Flores
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Monoleena Khan
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Harini Kandavel
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Cindi M Morshead
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada.
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24
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Khodabakhsh P, Asgari Taei A, Shafaroodi H, Pournajaf S, Dargahi L. Effect of Metformin on Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cells and Their Potential Application in Ameliorating Paclitaxel-induced Neurotoxicity Phenotype. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:394-412. [PMID: 37924435 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10642-x] [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] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cells (EPI-NCSCs) have emerged as prospective ideal candidates to meet the fundamental requirements of cell-based therapies in neurodegenerative disorders. The present study aimed to identify the potential of metformin in driving EPI-NCSCs to neuronal/glial differentiation and express neurotrophic factors as well as assess their therapeutic potential for mitigating the main behavioral manifestations of chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity (CIN). MAIN METHODS EPI-NCSCs were extracted from the bulge region of hair follicle. Following expansion, transcript and protein expression profiles of key markers for stemness (Nestin, EGR-1, SOX-2 and 10), neurotrophic activity (BDNF, GDNF, NGF, FGF-2, and IL-6), and neuronal (TUB3, DCX, NRF and NeuN) and glial (PDGFRα, NG2, GFAP, and MBP) differentiation were determined on days 1 and 7 post-treatment with 10 and 100 μM metformin using real time-PCR and immunocytochemistry methods. Then, the in vivo function of metformin-treated stem cells was evaluated in the context of paclitaxel CIN. To do so, thermal hyperalgesia, mechanical allodynia, and spatial learning and memory tests were evaluated by Hotplate, Von Frey, and Morris water maze tests. KEY FINDINGS Our result indicated that exposure of EPI-NCSCs to metformin was associated with progressive decline in stemness markers and enhanced expression levels of several neurotrophic, neuron and oligodendrocyte-specific markers. Further, it was observed that intranasal metformin-treated EPI-NCSCs improved the cognitive impairment, and mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity induced by paclitaxel in rats. SIGNIFICANCE Collectively, we reasoned that metformin pretreatment of EPI-NCSCs might further enhance their therapeutic benefits against CIN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Institute of Physiology, Department Neurophysiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Shafaroodi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Safura Pournajaf
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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25
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Tsugiyama LE, Moraes RCM, Moraes YAC, Francis-Oliveira J. Promising new pharmacological targets for depression: The search for efficacy. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103804. [PMID: 37865307 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacological treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) still relies on the use of serotonergic drugs, despite their limited efficacy. A few mechanistically new drugs have been developed in recent years, but many fail in clinical trials. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain MDD pathophysiology, indicating that physiological processes such as neuroplasticity, circadian rhythms, and metabolism are potential targets. Here, we review the current state of pharmacological treatments for MDD, as well as the preclinical and clinical evidence for an antidepressant effect of molecules that target non-serotonergic systems. We offer some insights into the challenges facing the development of new antidepressant drugs, and the prospect of finding more effectiveness for each target discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucila Emiko Tsugiyama
- Kansai Medical University, Graduate School of Medicine, iPS Cell Applied Medicine, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ruan Carlos Macedo Moraes
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, Birmingham, AL, USA; Biomedical Sciences Institute, Department of Human Physiology, Sao Paulo University, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Jose Francis-Oliveira
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, Birmingham, AL, USA; Biomedical Sciences Institute, Department of Human Physiology, Sao Paulo University, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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26
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Dagsuyu E, Koroglu P, Gul IB, Bulan OK, Yanardag R. Oxidative brain and cerebellum injury in diabetes and prostate cancer model: Protective effect of metformin. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2023; 37:e23440. [PMID: 37354076 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23440] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The body can host the spread of prostate cancer cells. Metastases from prostate cancer are more frequently seen in the brain, liver, lungs, and lymph nodes. A well-known antidiabetic drug, metformin, is also known to have antitumor effects. Our study focuses on the evaluation of potential metformin protective effects on brain and cerebellum damage in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic and Dunning prostate cancer models. In this investigation, six groups of male Copenhagen rats were created: control, diabetic (D), cancer (C), diabetic + cancer (DC), cancer + metformin, and diabetic + cancer + metformin. The brain and cerebellum tissues of the rats were taken after sacrifice. Oxidative stress markers including reduced glutathione level, lipid peroxidation, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase activities, reactive oxygen species, total oxidant and total antioxidant status, lactate dehydrogenase, xanthine oxidase, acetylcholinesterase activities, protein carbonyl contents, nitric oxide and OH-proline levels, sodium potassium ATPase, carbonic anhydrase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities; glycoprotein levels including hexose, hexosamine, fucose, and sialic acid levels; and histone deacetylase activity as a cancer marker were determined. Oxidative stress markers were impaired and glycoprotein levels and histone deacetylase activity were increased in the D, C, and DC groups. Metformin therapy reversed these effects. Metformin was found to protect the brain and cerebellum of STZ-induced diabetic rats with Dunning prostate cancer from harm caused by MAT-Lylu metastatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eda Dagsuyu
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pınar Koroglu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Halic University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilknur B Gul
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Omur K Bulan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Refiye Yanardag
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
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27
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Yuan T, Wang T, Zhang J, Liu P, Xu J, Gu Z, Xu J, Li Y. Robust and Multifunctional Nanoparticles Assembled from Natural Polyphenols and Metformin for Efficient Spinal Cord Regeneration. ACS NANO 2023; 17:18562-18575. [PMID: 37708443 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) remains unsatisfactory owing to the complex pathophysiological microenvironments at the injury site and the limited regenerative potential of the central nervous system. Metformin has been proven in clinical and animal experiments to repair damaged structures and functions by promoting endogenous neurogenesis. However, in the early stage of acute SCI, the adverse pathophysiological microenvironment of the injury sites, such as reactive oxygen species and inflammatory factor storm, can prevent the activation of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) and the differentiation of NSCs into neurons, decreasing the whole repair effect. To address those issues, a series of robust and multifunctional natural polyphenol-metformin nanoparticles (polyphenol-Met NPs) were fabricated with pH-responsiveness and excellent antioxidative capacities. The resulting NPs possessed several favorable advantages: First, the NPs were composed of active ingredients with different biological properties, without the need for carriers; second, the pH-responsiveness feature could allow targeted drug delivery at the injured site; more importantly, NPs enabled drugs with different performances to exhibit strong synergistic effects. The results demonstrated that the improved microenvironment by natural polyphenols boosted the differentiation of activated NSCs into neurons and oligodendrocytes, which could efficiently repair the injured nerve structures and enhance the functional recovery of the SCI rats. This work highlighted the design and fabrication of robust and multifunctional NPs for SCI treatment via efficient microenvironmental regulation and targeted NSCs activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoyang Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Tianyou Wang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Pengyu Liu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jiayi Xu
- Core Facilities, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Zhipeng Gu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jianguo Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yiwen Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
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28
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Rabieipoor S, Zare M, Ettcheto M, Camins A, Javan M. Metformin restores cognitive dysfunction and histopathological deficits in an animal model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17873. [PMID: 37483818 PMCID: PMC10362193 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Metformin has been introduced as a neuroprotective agent in recent years. Here we evaluate the therapeutic effects of metformin in sporadic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (SAD). Methods AD was induced by streptozotocin (STZ, 0.5 mg/kg) on days 1 and 3. Metformin (MET, 200 mg/kg per day) was used for two weeks. Novel objective recognition (NOR) and Barnes Maze test were used to test the learning and memory. Nissl staining was used as s histological method for counting the dying neurons in different regions of hippocampus. Immunofluorescence staining against glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) and NeuN were used to visualize reactive astrocytes, microglia and neurons, respectively. Results In NOR test, the discrimination indices in the STZ group were significantly lower than the control and treatment groups. Goal sector/non-goal sector (GS/NGS) ratio index in Barnes maze was increased in metformin group compared to other groups. The number of dying neurons was increased by SAD and metformin reduced it. GFAP level was increased in CA1, CA3 and cortex of STZ group and reversed following the treatment. Iba1 level was significantly higher in STZ group in CA3 and cortex regions compared to Control and decreased by metformin in CA3 and cortex. Counting NeuN+ cells demonstrated significant reduction of neurons in DG+CA1 and CA3 after SAD induction. Significance Metformin decreased inflammatory cells and reactive astrocytes as well as the dying neurons in the hippocampus region and the cortex in SAD, and improved the cognitive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saghar Rabieipoor
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institute de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Institute for Brain and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
| | - Meysam Zare
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Institute for Brain and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
| | - Miren Ettcheto
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institute de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain
| | - Antoni Camins
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institute de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mohammad Javan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Institute for Brain and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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29
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Dong Y, Qi Y, Jiang H, Mi T, Zhang Y, Peng C, Li W, Zhang Y, Zhou Y, Zang Y, Li J. The development and benefits of metformin in various diseases. Front Med 2023; 17:388-431. [PMID: 37402952 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-0998-6] [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: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Metformin has been used for the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus for decades due to its safety, low cost, and outstanding hypoglycemic effect clinically. The mechanisms underlying these benefits are complex and still not fully understood. Inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory-chain complex I is the most described downstream mechanism of metformin, leading to reduced ATP production and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Meanwhile, many novel targets of metformin have been gradually discovered. In recent years, multiple pre-clinical and clinical studies are committed to extend the indications of metformin in addition to diabetes. Herein, we summarized the benefits of metformin in four types of diseases, including metabolic associated diseases, cancer, aging and age-related diseases, neurological disorders. We comprehensively discussed the pharmacokinetic properties and the mechanisms of action, treatment strategies, the clinical application, the potential risk of metformin in various diseases. This review provides a brief summary of the benefits and concerns of metformin, aiming to interest scientists to consider and explore the common and specific mechanisms and guiding for the further research. Although there have been countless studies of metformin, longitudinal research in each field is still much warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yingbei Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Haowen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Tian Mi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yunkai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chang Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wanchen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yongmei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
| | - Yi Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Open Studio for Druggability Research of Marine Natural Products, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266237, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
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Sritawan N, Sirichoat A, Aranarochana A, Pannangrong W, Wigmore P, Welbat JU. Protective effect of metformin on methotrexate induced reduction of rat hippocampal neural stem cells and neurogenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114613. [PMID: 37001179 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis is a process in which the adult neural stem cells produce newborn neurons that are implicated in terms of learning and memory. Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapeutic drug, which has a negative effect on memory and hippocampal neurogenesis in animal models. Metformin is an antidiabetic drug with strong antioxidant capacities. We found that metformin ameliorates MTX induced deteriorations of memory and hippocampal neurogenesis in adult rats. In this study, we focus to investigate neural stem cells, biomarkers of apoptosis, and the protein for synaptogenesis, which involves in the transcription factors of the hippocampus in rats that received metformin and MTX. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were composed of control, MTX, metformin, and MTX+metformin groups. MTX (75 mg/kg, i.v.) was given on days 7 and 14, whereas metformin (200 mg/kg, i.p.) was given for 14 days. Hippocampal neural stem cells in the subgranular zone (SGZ) were quantified using immunofluorescence staining of Sox2 and nestin. Protein expression including PSD95, Casepase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, CREB, and pCREB were determined using Western blotting. MTX-treated rats displayed decreases in Sox2 and nestin-positive cells in the SGZ. Increases in Caspase-3 and Bax levels and decreases in PSD95, Bcl-2, CREB, and pCREB protein expressions in the hippocampus were also detected. However, these negative impacts of MTX were ameliorated by co-treatment with metformin. These consequences postulate that metformin has a potential to increase neural stem cells, synaptic plasticity, decreased apoptotic activities, and transcription factors, resulting in upregulation of hippocampal neurogenesis in MTX-treated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataya Sritawan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Apiwat Sirichoat
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Anusara Aranarochana
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Wanassanan Pannangrong
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
| | - Peter Wigmore
- School of Life Sciences, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Jariya Umka Welbat
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; Neurogenesis Research Group, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
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Gilbert EAB, Livingston J, Garcia-Flores E, Kehtari T, Morshead CM. Metformin Improves Functional Outcomes, Activates Neural Precursor Cells, and Modulates Microglia in a Sex-Dependent Manner After Spinal Cord Injury. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023:7174953. [PMID: 37209417 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in devastating patient outcomes with few treatment options. A promising approach to improve outcomes following SCI involves the activation of endogenous precursor populations including neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) which are located in the periventricular zone (PVZ), and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) found throughout the parenchyma. In the adult spinal cord, resident NSPCs are primarily mitotically quiescent and aneurogenic, while OPCs contribute to ongoing oligodendrogenesis into adulthood. Each of these populations is responsive to SCI, increasing their proliferation and migration to the site of injury; however, their activation is not sufficient to support functional recovery. Previous work has shown that administration of the FDA-approved drug metformin is effective at promoting endogenous brain repair following injury, and this is correlated with enhanced NSPC activation. Here, we ask whether metformin can promote functional recovery and neural repair following SCI in both males and females. Our results reveal that acute, but not delayed metformin administration improves functional outcomes following SCI in both sexes. The functional improvement is concomitant with OPC activation and oligodendrogenesis. Our data also reveal sex-dependent effects of metformin following SCI with increased activation of NSPCs in females and reduced microglia activation in males. Taken together, these findings support metformin as a viable therapeutic strategy following SCI and highlight its pleiotropic effects in the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A B Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jessica Livingston
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emilio Garcia-Flores
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tarlan Kehtari
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cindi M Morshead
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Nashif SK, Mahr RM, Jena S, Jo S, Nelson AB, Sadowski D, Crawford PA, Puchalska P, Alejandro EU, Gearhart MD, Wernimont SA. Metformin impairs trophoblast metabolism and differentiation in a dose-dependent manner. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1167097. [PMID: 37250894 PMCID: PMC10213689 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1167097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a widely prescribed medication whose mechanism of action is not completely defined and whose role in gestational diabetes management remains controversial. In addition to increasing the risk of fetal growth abnormalities and preeclampsia, gestational diabetes is associated with abnormalities in placental development including impairments in trophoblast differentiation. Given that metformin impacts cellular differentiation events in other systems, we assessed metformin's impact on trophoblast metabolism and differentiation. Using established cell culture models of trophoblast differentiation, oxygen consumption rates and relative metabolite abundance were determined following 200 µM (therapeutic range) and 2000 µM (supra-therapeutic range) metformin treatment using Seahorse and mass-spectrometry approaches. While no differences in oxygen consumption rates or relative metabolite abundance were detected between vehicle and 200 µM metformin-treated cells, 2000 µM metformin impaired oxidative metabolism and increased the abundance of lactate and TCA cycle intermediates, α-ketoglutarate, succinate, and malate. Examining differentiation, treatment with 2000 μM, but not 200 µM metformin, impaired HCG production and expression of multiple trophoblast differentiation markers. Overall, this work suggests that supra-therapeutic concentrations of metformin impair trophoblast metabolism and differentiation whereas metformin concentrations in the therapeutic range do not strongly impact these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sereen K. Nashif
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Renee M. Mahr
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Snehalata Jena
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Seokwon Jo
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Alisa B. Nelson
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Danielle Sadowski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Peter A. Crawford
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Patrycja Puchalska
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Emilyn U. Alejandro
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Micah D. Gearhart
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Sarah A. Wernimont
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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Ertas B, Hazar-Yavuz AN, Topal F, Keles-Kaya R, Karakus Ö, Ozcan GS, Taskin T, Cam ME. Rosa canina L. improves learning and memory-associated cognitive impairment by regulating glucose levels and reducing hippocampal insulin resistance in high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 313:116541. [PMID: 37088237 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Recent studies claim that Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) overlap in several common pathological pathways which from neuronal damage to impaired memory performance. It is known that the use of Rosa canina L. (R. canina) as medicine in folk medicine dates back to ancient times and is used in the treatment of nervous diseases in Persian medicine. However, the effect of R. canina on diabetes-related cognitive decline and memory impairment has not yet been studied. AIM OF THE STUDY We evaluated the impact of T2DM on AD-like alterations and examined the molecular mechanism of a possible effect of R. canina on cognitive alterations in diabetic rats. MATERIALS&METHODS R. canina ethanol extract was obtained by maceration method. This study was performed with male Spraque-Dawley rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks, low-dose streptozotocin (STZ; 35 mg/kg IP) injection for 4 weeks, and R. canina (250 mg/kg; per oral) and metformin (400 mg/kg; per oral) administration for 4 weeks. The weight and blood glucose of rats were measured weekly. To evaluate glucose tolerance area under the curve (AUC) was calculated by performing an oral glucose tolerance test. Then the rats were subjected to behavioural tests, and their hippocampus and cortex tissues were obtained for biochemical and morphological analyses. RESULTS R. canina could manage glucose responsiveness by reducing post-prandial blood glucose levels, preventing weight loss, and raising serum insulin levels in T2DM-induced rats. Behavioural tests showed that R. canina significantly improves diabetes-related cognitive decline in recall and long-term memory. Treatment with R. canina significantly reversed HFD/STZ-induced increases in insulin, amyloid-β, amyloid precursor protein levels, and acetylcholinesterase activity in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Furthermore, histological analyzes revealed the protection of R. canina against neuronal disruption in the cortical and hippocampal CA3 region caused by chronic hyperglycemia. CONCLUSION Analyzed collectively, these results suggest that R. canina can correct T2DM-related cognitive decline may be attributed to insulin pathway modulation, prevention of amyloid deposition, and increased cholinergic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Busra Ertas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University, Istanbul, 34854, Turkey; Genetic and Metabolic Diseases Research and Investigation Center, Marmara University, 34722, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayse Nur Hazar-Yavuz
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University, Istanbul, 34854, Turkey
| | - Fadime Topal
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University, Istanbul, 34854, Turkey
| | - Rumeysa Keles-Kaya
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, 34854, Turkey
| | - Özge Karakus
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University, Istanbul, 34854, Turkey
| | - Gul Sinemcan Ozcan
- Stem Cell and Gene Therapies Research and Applied Center, Medical Faculty, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, 41380, Turkey
| | - Turgut Taskin
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University, Istanbul, 34854, Turkey
| | - Muhammet Emin Cam
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University, Istanbul, 34854, Turkey; Genetic and Metabolic Diseases Research and Investigation Center, Marmara University, 34722, Istanbul, Turkey; UCL Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London, Rowland Hill Street, NW3 2PF, UK; Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal; Center for Nanotechnology and Biomaterials Application and Research, Marmara University, Istanbul, 34722, Turkey.
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Xiang J, Lu Y, Quan C, Gao Y, Zhou G. Metformin Protects Radiation-Induced Early Brain Injury by Reducing Inflammation and DNA Damage. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13040645. [PMID: 37190610 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13040645] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation-induced brain injury (RIBI) is one of the most common and fatal complications of cranial radiation therapy (CRT); however, no effective intervention is available currently. Metformin has been reported to have anti-RIBI activity as a first-line anti-diabetic drug. However, the mechanism of action is unclear. An RIBI mice model and an in vitro cell model under 30 and 10 Gy 60Co γ-rays exposure were established to investigate the mechanism of metformin in RIBI. The results showed that pre-treatment with metformin protects hippocampal neurogenesis in the brain of mice and improves learning and memory ability after irradiation. Further investigations revealed that metformin pretreatment reduces inflammation and decreases DNA damage in the in vitro BV2 cell line. In addition, we observed that metformin inhibits the activation of IκB and IRF-3, which are downstream components of the cGAS-STING pathway. These findings suggest that metformin might protect the brain from RIBI, at least partly, through the cGAS pathway, making it a potential therapeutic drug for RIBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabao Xiang
- Graduate Collaborative Training Base of Academy of Military Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
- Department of Genetics & Integrative Omics, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yiming Lu
- Department of Genetics & Integrative Omics, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Cheng Quan
- Department of Genetics & Integrative Omics, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Center of Cognition and Brain Science, Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Gangqiao Zhou
- Graduate Collaborative Training Base of Academy of Military Sciences, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
- Department of Genetics & Integrative Omics, State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, National Center for Protein Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing 100850, China
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Yu M, Liang M, An Q, Wang W, Zhang B, Yang S, Zhou J, Yang X, Yang D, Zhang L, Du G, Lu Y. Versatile Solid Modifications of Multicomponent Pharmaceutical Salts: Novel Metformin-Rhein Salts Based on Advantage Complementary Strategy Design. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041196. [PMID: 37111681 PMCID: PMC10142746 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041196] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to develop an effective treatment for diabetes and diabetic complications, based on the advantage complementary strategy of drug-drug salt, by designing and synthesizing the multicomponent molecular salts containing metformin (MET) and rhein (RHE). Finally, the salts of MET-RHE (1:1), MET-RHE-H2O (1:1:1), MET-RHE-ethanol-H2O (1:1:1:1), and MET-RHE-acetonitrile (2:2:1) were obtained, indicating the polymorphism of salts formed by MET and RHE. The structures were analyzed by the combination of characterization experiments and theoretical calculation, and the formation mechanism of polymorphism was discussed. The obtained results of in vitro evaluation showed that MET-RHE had a similar hygroscopicity with metformin hydrochloride (MET·HCl), and the solubility of the component of RHE increased by approximately 93 times, which laid a foundation for improving the bioavailability of MET and RHE in vivo. The evaluation of hypoglycemic activity in mice (C57BL/6N) indicated that MET-RHE exhibited better hypoglycemic activity than the parent drugs and the physical mixtures of MET and RHE. The above findings demonstrate that this study achieved the complementary advantages of MET and RHE through the multicomponent pharmaceutical salification technique, and provides new possibilities for the treatment of diabetic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchao Yu
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Meidai Liang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Targets Identification and Drug Screening, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Qi An
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wenwen Wang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Baoxi Zhang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Shiying Yang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiuying Yang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Targets Identification and Drug Screening, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Dezhi Yang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Guanhua Du
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Targets Identification and Drug Screening, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yang Lu
- Institute of Materia Medica, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Polymorphic Drugs, Center of Pharmaceutical Polymorphs, Beijing 100050, China
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Liu J, Zhang M, Deng D, Zhu X. The function, mechanisms, and clinical applications of metformin: potential drug, unlimited potentials. Arch Pharm Res 2023; 46:389-407. [PMID: 36964307 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-023-01445-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
Metformin has been used clinically for more than 60 years. As time goes by, more and more miraculous effects of metformin beyond the clinic have been discovered and discussed. In addition to the clinically approved hypoglycemic effect, it also has a positive metabolic regulation effect on the human body that cannot be ignored. Such as anti-cancer, anti-aging, brain repair, cardiovascular protection, gastrointestinal regulation, hair growth and inhibition of thyroid nodules, and other nonclinical effects. Metformin affects almost the entire body in the situation taking it over a long period, and the preventive effects of metformin in addition to treating diabetes are also beginning to be recommended in some guidelines. This review is mainly composed of four parts: the development history of metformin, the progress of clinical efficacy, the nonclinical efficacy of metformin, and the consideration and prospect of its application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhong Liu
- Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo, China
| | - Dan Deng
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiao Zhu
- Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biology and Synthetic Biology for Urogenital Tumors, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Tumor, Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital (Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine), Shenzhen, China.
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37
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Fleming B, Edison P, Kenny L. Cognitive impairment after cancer treatment: mechanisms, clinical characterization, and management. BMJ 2023; 380:e071726. [PMID: 36921926 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-071726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is a debilitating side effect experienced by patients with cancer treated with systemically administered anticancer therapies. With around 19.3 million new cases of cancer worldwide in 2020 and the five year survival rate growing from 50% in 1970 to 67% in 2013, an urgent need exists to understand enduring side effects with severe implications for quality of life. Whereas cognitive impairment associated with chemotherapy is recognized in patients with breast cancer, researchers have started to identify cognitive impairment associated with other treatments such as immune, endocrine, and targeted therapies only recently. The underlying mechanisms are diverse and therapy specific, so further evaluation is needed to develop effective therapeutic interventions. Drug and non-drug management strategies are emerging that target mechanistic pathways or the cognitive deficits themselves, but they need to be rigorously evaluated. Clinically, consistent use of objective diagnostic tools is necessary for accurate diagnosis and clinical characterization of cognitive impairment in patients treated with anticancer therapies. This should be supplemented with clinical guidelines that could be implemented in daily practice. This review summarizes the recent advances in the mechanisms, clinical characterization, and novel management strategies of cognitive impairment associated with treatment of non-central nervous system cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Fleming
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Edison
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Laura Kenny
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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38
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Gungor O, Kose M. The biguanide-sulfonamide derivatives: synthesis, characterization and investigation of anticholinesterase inhibitory, antioxidant and DNA/BSA binding properties. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:14952-14967. [PMID: 36858484 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2184637] [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: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
A number of new biguanidine-sulfonamide derivatives (1-16) were synthesized and their structures were characterized by spectroscopic and analytical methods. Crystal structures of the compounds 1, 4, 8, 10 and 14 were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction studies. X-ray crystallographic data showed the π-electron delocalization through the biguanide units. The AChE and BChE cholinesterase inhibitor, DPPH antioxidant and DNA/BSA binding properties of the synthesized compounds were evaluated. Results of cholinesterase inhibitory properties have shown that the compounds containing electron-withdrawing (-F, -Cl) groups have higher AChE/BChE inhibitory and antioxidant activities. Compound 3 showed higher BChE inhibitory activity than tacrine with IC50 value of 28.4 µM. The compounds interact with DNA via minor groove binding mode. The compounds with a naphthyl group in its structure strongly binds with DNA/BSA biomolecules.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Gungor
- Chemistry Department, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Muhammet Kose
- Chemistry Department, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
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39
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Bakhshandeh B, Ranjbar N, Abbasi A, Amiri E, Abedi A, Mehrabi M, Dehghani Z, Pennisi CP. Recent progress in the manipulation of biochemical and biophysical cues for engineering functional tissues. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10383. [PMID: 36925674 PMCID: PMC10013802 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue engineering (TE) is currently considered a cutting-edge discipline that offers the potential for developing treatments for health conditions that negatively affect the quality of life. This interdisciplinary field typically involves the combination of cells, scaffolds, and appropriate induction factors for the regeneration and repair of damaged tissue. Cell fate decisions, such as survival, proliferation, or differentiation, critically depend on various biochemical and biophysical factors provided by the extracellular environment during developmental, physiological, and pathological processes. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of action of these factors is critical to accurately mimic the complex architecture of the extracellular environment of living tissues and improve the efficiency of TE approaches. In this review, we recapitulate the effects that biochemical and biophysical induction factors have on various aspects of cell fate. While the role of biochemical factors, such as growth factors, small molecules, extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and cytokines, has been extensively studied in the context of TE applications, it is only recently that we have begun to understand the effects of biophysical signals such as surface topography, mechanical, and electrical signals. These biophysical cues could provide a more robust set of stimuli to manipulate cell signaling pathways during the formation of the engineered tissue. Furthermore, the simultaneous application of different types of signals appears to elicit synergistic responses that are likely to improve functional outcomes, which could help translate results into successful clinical therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnaz Bakhshandeh
- Department of Biotechnology, College of ScienceUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Nika Ranjbar
- Department of Biotechnology, College of ScienceUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Ardeshir Abbasi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Elahe Amiri
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and TechnologyUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Ali Abedi
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and TechnologyUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Mohammad‐Reza Mehrabi
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, School of Biology, College of ScienceUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Zahra Dehghani
- Department of Biotechnology, College of ScienceUniversity of TehranTehranIran
| | - Cristian Pablo Pennisi
- Regenerative Medicine Group, Department of Health Science and TechnologyAalborg UniversityAalborgDenmark
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40
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Nashif SK, Mahr RM, Jena S, Jo S, Nelson AB, Sadowski D, Crawford PA, Puchalska P, Alejandro EU, Gearhart MD, Wernimont SA. Metformin impairs trophoblast metabolism and differentiation in dose dependent manner. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.14.528531. [PMID: 36824783 PMCID: PMC9949099 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.14.528531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Metformin is a widely prescribed medication whose mechanism of action is not completely defined and whose role in gestational diabetes management remains controversial. In addition to increasing risks of fetal growth abnormalities and preeclampsia, gestational diabetes is associated with abnormalities in placental development including impairments in trophoblast differentiation. Given that metformin impacts cellular differentiation events in other systems, we assessed metformin's impact on trophoblast metabolism and differentiation. Using established cell culture models of trophoblast differentiation, oxygen consumption rates and relative metabolite abundance were determined following 200 μM (therapeutic range) and 2000 μM (supra-therapeutic range) metformin treatment using Seahorse and mass-spectrometry approaches. While no differences in oxygen consumption rates or relative metabolite abundance were detected between vehicle and 200 μM metformin treated cells, 2000 μM metformin impaired oxidative metabolism and increased abundance of lactate and TCA cycle intermediates, α-ketoglutarate, succinate, and malate. Examining differentiation, treatment with 2000 μM, but not 200 μM metformin, impaired HCG production and expression of multiple trophoblast differentiation markers. Overall, this work suggests that supra-therapeutic concentrations of metformin impairs trophoblast metabolism and differentiation whereas metformin concentrations in the therapeutic range do not strongly impact these processes.
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41
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Urbinati C, Lanzillotta C, Cosentino L, Valenti D, Quattrini MC, Di Crescenzo L, Prestia F, Pietraforte D, Perluigi M, Di Domenico F, Vacca RA, De Filippis B. Chronic treatment with the anti-diabetic drug metformin rescues impaired brain mitochondrial activity and selectively ameliorates defective cognitive flexibility in a female mouse model of Rett syndrome. Neuropharmacology 2023; 224:109350. [PMID: 36442649 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Metformin is the most common anti-diabetic drug and a promising therapy for disorders beyond diabetes, including Rett syndrome (RTT), a rare neurologic disease characterized by severe intellectual disability. A 10-day-long treatment rescued aberrant mitochondrial activity and restrained oxidative stress in a female RTT mouse model. However, this treatment regimen did not improve the phenotype of RTT mice. In the present study, we demonstrate that a 4-month-long treatment with metformin (150 mg/Kg/day, delivered in drinking bottles) provides a selective normalization of cognitive flexibility defects in RTT female mice at an advanced stage of disease, but it does not affect their impaired general health status and abnormal motor skills. The 4-month-long treatment also rescues the reduced activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activities, the defective brain ATP production and levels as well as the increased production of reactive oxidizing species in the whole blood of RTT mice. A significant boost of PGC-1α-dependent pathways related to mitochondrial biogenesis and antioxidant defense occurs in the brain of RTT mice that received the metformin treatment. Further studies will have to verify whether these effects may underlie its long-lasting beneficial effects on brain energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Urbinati
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Livia Cosentino
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Daniela Valenti
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies, National Council of Research, Bari, Italy.
| | | | - Livia Di Crescenzo
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Prestia
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Rosa Anna Vacca
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies, National Council of Research, Bari, Italy.
| | - Bianca De Filippis
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Metformin enhances neural precursor cells migration and functional recovery after ischemic stroke in mice. Exp Brain Res 2023; 241:505-515. [PMID: 36611122 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-023-06547-3] [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: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Resident neural precursor cells (NPCs) activation is a promising therapeutic strategy for brain repair. This strategy involves stimulating multiple stages of NPCs development, including proliferation, self-renewal, migration, and differentiation. Metformin, an FDA-approved diabetes drug, has been shown to promote the proliferation and differentiation of NPCs. However, it is still unclear whether metformin promotes the migration of NPCs. EVOS living cell imaging system was used for observing the migration for primary NPCs dynamically in vitro after metformin treatment. For in vivo study, a mouse model of ischemic stroke was established through middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). To label the proliferating cell in subventricular zone, BrdU was injected intraperitoneally into the mice. After co-staining with BrdU and doublecortin (DCX), a marker for NPCs, the migration of Brdu and DCX double positive NPCs was detected along the rostral migratory stream (RMS) and around the infarct area using frozen brain sections. Finally, the rotarod test, corner test and beam walking were performed to evaluate the motor functions of the mice after stroke in different groups. The results showed that metformin enhanced NPCs migration in vivo and in vitro by promoting F-actin assembly and lamellipodia formation. What's more, metformin treatment also significantly reduced the infarct volume and alleviated functional dysfunction after stroke. Mechanistically, metformin promoted NPCs migration via up-regulating the CDC42 expression. Taken together, metformin represents an optimal candidate agent for neural repair that is capable of not only expanding the adult NPC population but also subsequently driving them toward the destination for neuronal differentiation.
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Kumar H, Chakrabarti A, Sarma P, Modi M, Banerjee D, Radotra BD, Bhatia A, Medhi B. Novel therapeutic mechanism of action of metformin and its nanoformulation in Alzheimer's disease and role of AKT/ERK/GSK pathway. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 181:106348. [PMID: 36496166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2022.106348] [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: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Brain Insulin-resistance plays a critical role in pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Current study explored the therapeutic mechanism of metformin (insulin sensitizer) and its solid-lipid nanoformulation (SLN) in rat-model of AD. In our study, SLN was prepared using microemulsion method. AD was induced with ICV-Aβ whereas the control-group (sham) received ICV-NS. Treatment arms included, disease-control (no treatment), Metformin (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg), SLN-metformin 50 mg/kg and memantine 1.8 mg/kg (positive-control). Animals were tested for cognitive performance (EPM, MWM) after 21 days of therapy and sacrificed. Aβ (1-42), hyperphosphorylated tau, pAKTser473, GSK-3β, p-ERK (ELISA), metformin level(HPLC), neuronal injury score(H&E), Bcl2 and Bax(IHC) was evaluated in isolated brain. In our study, metformin-SLN were of spherical shape (size<200 nm) with 94.08% entrapment efficiency. Metformin was detectable in brain. Compared to sham, the disease-control group showed significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) memory impairment(MWM and EPM), hyperphosphorylated tau, Aβ(1-42), neuronal-injury, Bax and lower Bcl-2 expression. Treatment with metformin and nanoformulation significantly reverse these parameters. AKT-ERK-GSK3β-Hyperphosphorylated tau pathway was found to be involved in the protective efficacy of metformin. To conclude, both metformin and its SLN were found to be effective as therapeutic agents in AD which act through the AKT-ERK-GSK3β-Hyperphosphorylated tau pathway. We need population based studies to confirm the same.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - B D Radotra
- Department of Histopathology, PGIMER, Chandigarh
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine & Biotechnology, PGIMER, Chandigarh.
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Loan A, Leung JWH, Cook DP, Ko C, Vanderhyden BC, Wang J, Chan HM. Prenatal low-dose methylmercury exposure causes premature neuronal differentiation and autism-like behaviors in a rodent model. iScience 2023; 26:106093. [PMID: 36843845 PMCID: PMC9947313 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant neurodevelopment is a core deficit of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Here we ask whether a non-genetic factor, prenatal exposure to the environmental pollutant methylmercury (MeHg), is a contributing factor in ASD onset. We showed that adult mice prenatally exposed to non-apoptotic MeHg exhibited key ASD characteristics, including impaired communication, reduced sociability, and increased restrictive repetitive behaviors, whereas in the embryonic cortex, prenatal MeHg exposure caused premature neuronal differentiation. Further single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis disclosed that prenatal exposure to MeHg resulted in cortical radial glial precursors (RGPs) favoring asymmetric differentiation to directly generate cortical neurons, omitting the intermediate progenitor stage. In addition, MeHg exposure in cultured RGPs increased CREB phosphorylation and enhanced the interaction between CREB and CREB binding protein (CBP). Intriguingly, metformin, an FDA-approved drug, can reverse MeHg-induced premature neuronal differentiation via CREB/CBP repulsion. These findings provide insights into ASD etiology, its underlying mechanism, and a potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Loan
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Joseph Wai-Hin Leung
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - David P. Cook
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Chelsea Ko
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Barbara C. Vanderhyden
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Jing Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Corresponding author
| | - Hing Man Chan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Corresponding author
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45
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Mechanism of metformin regulation in central nervous system: Progression and future perspectives. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113686. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Qiu-Yue X, Tian-Yuan Y, Xiao-Long W, Dong-Mei Q, Xiao-Rui C. Effects of metformin on modulating the expression of brain-related genes of APP/PS1 transgenic mice based on Single Cell Sequencing. Curr Alzheimer Res 2022; 19:CAR-EPUB-127961. [PMID: 36464874 DOI: 10.2174/1567205020666221201143323] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide. METHODS Here, we analyzed the effects of metformin on APP/PS1 transgenic mice by behavioral test and single-cell sequencing. Results showed that metformin can improve the spatial learning, memory function, and anxiety mood of APP/PS1 transgenic mice. We identified transcriptionally distinct subpopulations of nine major brain cell types. Metformin increased the differentiation of stem cells, decreased the proportion of cells in the G2 phase, enhanced the generation of neural stem cells and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, and the tendency of neural stem cells to differentiate into astrocytes. Notably, 253 genes expressed abnormally in APP/PS1 transgenic mice and were reversed by metformin. Ttr, Uba52, and Rps21 are the top 3 genes in the cell-gene network with the highest node degree. Moreover, histochemistry showed the expressions of RPS15, UBA52, and RPL23a were consistent with the data from single-cell sequencing. Pathway and biological process enrichment analysis indicated metformin was involved in nervous system development and negative regulation of the apoptotic process. CONCLUSION Overall, metformin might play an important role in the differentiation and development and apoptotic process of the central nervous system by regulating the expression of Ttr, Uba52, Rps21, and other genes to improve cognition of APP/PS1 transgenic mice. These results provided a clue for elaborating on the molecular and cellular basis of metformin on AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Qiu-Yue
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Ye Tian-Yuan
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Wang Xiao-Long
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Qi Dong-Mei
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Cheng Xiao-Rui
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
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47
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Azeez IA, Awogbindin IO, Olayinka JN, Folarin RO, Adamu AS, Ior LD, Shehu AM, Mukhtar AI, Ajeigbe OF, Emokpae AO, Usende IL, Babatunde BR, Yusha'u Y, Olateju OI, Kamoga R, Benson AIO, Oparaji KC, Owemidu IO, Iliyasu MO, Imam MI, Olopade JO. Neural stem cell research in Africa: current realities and future prospects. Biol Open 2022; 11:280534. [PMID: 36326097 PMCID: PMC9641530 DOI: 10.1242/bio.059574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) are immature progenitor cells that are found in developing and adult brains that have the potential of dividing actively and renewing themselves, with a complex form of gene expression. The generation of new brain cells in adult individuals was initially considered impossible, however, the landmark discovery of human neural stem cells in the hippocampus has been followed by further discoveries in other discreet regions of the brain. Investigation into the current state in Africa of the research and use of NSCs shows relatively limited activities on the continent. Information on the African application of NSCs for modelling disease mechanisms, drug discovery, and therapeutics is still limited. The International Brain Research Organization (IBRO)-African Regional Committee (ARC), with support from the Company of Biologists, and the Movement Disorder Society, sponsored the first African Basic School on NSC in Ibadan, Nigeria, with the vision of bringing together young neuroscientists and physicians across different fields in neuroscience to learn from leaders who have applied NSCs in stem cell research, the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, neuroanatomy, and neurotherapeutics. Twenty early-career researchers in academic institutions at junior and senior faculty cadres were selected from South Africa, Uganda and Nigeria. The students and organizer of the school, who wrote this review on the state of NSCs research in Africa, recommended the following: (1) other African countries can take a cue from South Africa and Nigeria in probing the phenomena of adult neurogenesis in unique animal species on the continent; (2) Africa should leverage the expertise and facilities of South African scientists and international collaborators in scaling up NSC research into these unique species and (3) Centers of Excellence should be established on the continent to serve as research hubs for training postgraduate students, and facilities for African scientists who trained overseas on NSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idris A. Azeez
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Jos 1 , Jos, 930001 Nigeria
| | | | - Juliet N. Olayinka
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Afe Babalola University 3 , Ado-Ekiti, 360001 Nigeria
| | - Royhaan O. Folarin
- Department of Anatomy, Olabisi Onabanjo University 4 , Ago-Iwoye, 120107 Nigeria
| | - Abubakar S. Adamu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Ahmadu Bello University 5 , Zaria, 810107 , Nigeria
| | - Lydia D. Ior
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Jos 6 , Jos, 930001 , Nigeria
| | - Asmau M. Shehu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Federal University Dutse 7 , Dutse, 720223 , Nigeria
- School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand 8 , Johannesburg, Wits 2050 , South Africa
| | - Abubakar I. Mukhtar
- Department of Human Anatomy, Ahmadu Bello University 5 , Zaria, 810107 , Nigeria
| | - Olufunke F. Ajeigbe
- Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, 340112 9 Department of Physical and Chemical Sciences, Biochemistry Programme , , Nigeria
| | | | - Ifukibot L. Usende
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Abuja 11 , Abuja, 900105 , Nigeria
| | | | - Yusuf Yusha'u
- Department of Human Physiology, Ahmadu Bello University 12 , Zaria, 810107 , Nigeria
| | - Oladiran I. Olateju
- School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand 8 , Johannesburg, Wits 2050 , South Africa
| | - Ronald Kamoga
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology 13 , Mbarara P.O. Box 1410 , Uganda
| | - Ayoola I. O. Benson
- Department of Human Anatomy, Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin 14 , Abakaliki, 482131 Nigeria
| | - Kenneth C. Oparaji
- Department of Physiology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike 15 , Abakaliki, 482131 , Nigeria
| | - Idowu O. Owemidu
- Department of Physiology, Kogi State University 16 , Anyigba, 272102 , Nigeria
| | - Musa O. Iliyasu
- Department of Anatomy, Kogi State University 17 , Anyigba, 272102 , Nigeria
| | - Maryam I. Imam
- Department of Human Physiology, Ahmadu Bello University 12 , Zaria, 810107 , Nigeria
| | - James O. Olopade
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Ibadan 18 , Ibadan, 200005 , Nigeria
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Chau DDL, Li W, Chan WWR, Sun JKL, Zhai Y, Chow HM, Lau KF. Insulin stimulates atypical protein kinase C-mediated phosphorylation of the neuronal adaptor FE65 to potentiate neurite outgrowth by activating ARF6-Rac1 signaling. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22594. [PMID: 36250347 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200757r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurite outgrowth is a fundamental process in neurons that produces extensions and, consequently, neural connectivity. Neurite damage and atrophy are observed in various brain injuries and disorders. Understanding the intrinsic pathways of neurite outgrowth is essential for developing strategies to stimulate neurite regeneration. Insulin is a pivotal hormone in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. There is increasing evidence for the neurotrophic functions of insulin, including the induction of neurite outgrowth. However, the associated mechanism remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that insulin potentiates neurite outgrowth mediated by the small GTPases ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (ARF6) and Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) through the neuronal adaptor FE65. Moreover, insulin enhances atypical protein kinase Cι/λ (PKCι/λ) activation and FE65 phosphorylation at serine 459 (S459) in neurons and mouse brains. In vitro and cellular assays show that PKCι/λ phosphorylated FE65 at S459. Consistently, insulin potentiates FE65 S459 phosphorylation only in the presence of PKCι/λ. Phosphomimetic studies show that an FE65 S459E mutant potently activates ARF6, Rac1, and neurite outgrowth. Notably, this phosphomimetic mutation enhances the FE65-ARF6 interaction, a process that promotes ARF6-Rac1-mediated neurite outgrowth. Likewise, insulin treatment and PKCι/λ overexpression potentiate the FE65-ARF6 interaction. Conversely, PKCι/λ knockdown suppresses the stimulatory effect of FE65 on ARF6-Rac1-mediated neurite outgrowth. The effect of insulin on neurite outgrowth is also markedly attenuated in PKCι/λ knockdown neurons, in the presence and absence of FE65. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism linking insulin with ARF6-Rac1-dependent neurite extension through the PKCι/λ-mediated phosphorylation of FE65.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Dik-Long Chau
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wen Li
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Research Laboratory for Biomedical Optics and Molecular Imaging, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wai Wa Ray Chan
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jacquelyne Ka-Li Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuqi Zhai
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hei-Man Chow
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kwok-Fai Lau
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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ADGRL3 genomic variation implicated in neurogenesis and ADHD links functional effects to the incretin polypeptide GIP. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15922. [PMID: 36151371 PMCID: PMC9508192 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20343-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Adhesion G Protein-Coupled Receptor L3 (ADGRL3) gene are associated with increased susceptibility to developing ADHD worldwide. However, the effect of ADGRL3 non-synonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) on the ADGRL3 protein function is vastly unknown. Using several bioinformatics tools to evaluate the impact of mutations, we found that nsSNPs rs35106420, rs61747658, and rs734644, previously reported to be associated and in linkage with ADHD in disparate populations from the world over, are predicted as pathogenic variants. Docking analysis of rs35106420, harbored in the ADGLR3-hormone receptor domain (HRM, a common extracellular domain of the secretin-like GPCRs family), showed that HRM interacts with the Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), part of the incretin hormones family. GIP has been linked to the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus, and our analyses suggest a potential link to ADHD. Overall, the comprehensive application of bioinformatics tools showed that functional mutations in the ADGLR3 gene disrupt the standard and wild ADGRL3 structure, most likely affecting its metabolic regulation. Further in vitro experiments are granted to evaluate these in silico predictions of the ADGRL3-GIP interaction and dissect the complexity underlying the development of ADHD.
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50
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A review on role of metformin as a potential drug for epilepsy treatment and modulation of epileptogenesis. Seizure 2022; 101:253-261. [PMID: 36116284 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Available anti-seizure medications (ASMs) target the symptomatology of the disease rather than any significant disease/epileptogenesis modifying actions. There are critical concerns of drug resistance and seizure recurrence during epilepsy management. So, drug repurposing is evolving as a paradigm change in the quest for novel epilepsy treatment strategies. Metformin, a well-known anti-diabetic drug has shown multiple pieces of evidence of its potential antiepileptic action. OBJECTIVE This review elucidates various mechanisms underlying the beneficial role of metformin in seizure control and modulation of the epileptogenesis process. METHODS Preclinical and clinical evidence involving metformin's role in epilepsy and special conditions like tuberous sclerosis have been reviewed in this paper. The putative mechanisms of epileptogenesis modulation through the use of metformin are also summarised. RESULTS This review found the efficacy of metformin in different seizure models including genetic knockout model, chemical induced, and kindling models. Only one clinical study of metformin in tuberous sclerosis has shown a reduction in seizure frequency and tumor volume compared to placebo. The suggested mechanisms of metformin relevant to epileptogenesis modulation mainly encompass AMPK activation, mTOR inhibition, protection against blood-brain-barrier disruption, inhibition of neuronal apoptosis, and reduction of oxidative stress. In addition to seizure protection, metformin has a potential role in attenuating adverse effects associated with epilepsy and ASMs such as cognition and memory impairment. CONCLUSION Metformin has shown promising utility in epilepsy management and epileptogenesis modulation. The evidence in this review substantiates the need for a robust clinical trial to explore the efficacy and safety of metformin in persons with epilepsy.
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