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Kalakh S, Mouihate A. The Effects of Neuroactive Steroids on Myelin in Health and Disease. Med Princ Pract 2024; 33:198-214. [PMID: 38350432 PMCID: PMC11175611 DOI: 10.1159/000537794] [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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Myelin plays a pivotal role in the efficient transmission of nerve impulses. Disruptions in myelin integrity are associated with numerous neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis. In the central nervous system (CNS), myelin is formed by oligodendrocytes. Remyelination refers to the re-formation of the damaged myelin sheath by newly formed oligodendrocytes. Steroids have gained attention for their potential modulatory effects on myelin in both health and disease. Steroids are traditionally associated with endocrine functions, but their local synthesis within the nervous system has generated significant interest. The term "neuroactive steroids" refers to steroids that can act on cells of the nervous system. In the healthy state, neuroactive steroids promote myelin formation, maintenance, and repair by enhancing oligodendrocyte differentiation and maturation. In pathological conditions, such as demyelination injury, multiple neuroactive steroids have shown promise in promoting remyelination. Understanding the effects of neuroactive steroids on myelin could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for demyelinating diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. This review highlights the potential therapeutic significance of neuroactive steroids in myelin-related health and diseases. We review the synthesis of steroids by neurons and glial cells and discuss the roles of neuroactive steroids on myelin structure and function in health and disease. We emphasize the potential promyelinating effects of the varying levels of neuroactive steroids during different female physiological states such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, lactation, and postmenopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samah Kalakh
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- School of Engineering and Computing, American International University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Abdeslam Mouihate
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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2
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Ramli NZ, Yahaya MF, Mohd Fahami NA, Abdul Manan H, Singh M, Damanhuri HA. Brain volumetric changes in menopausal women and its association with cognitive function: a structured review. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1158001. [PMID: 37818479 PMCID: PMC10561270 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1158001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The menopausal transition has been proposed to put women at risk for undesirable neurological symptoms, including cognitive decline. Previous studies suggest that alterations in the hormonal milieu modulate brain structures associated with cognitive function. This structured review provides an overview of the relevant studies that have utilized MRI to report volumetric differences in the brain following menopause, and its correlations with the evaluated cognitive functions. We performed an electronic literature search using Medline (Ovid) and Scopus to identify studies that assessed the influence of menopause on brain structure with MRI. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Brain volumetric differences have been reported most frequently in the frontal and temporal cortices as well as the hippocampus. These regions are important for higher cognitive tasks and memory. Additionally, the deficit in verbal and visuospatial memory in postmenopausal women has been associated with smaller regional brain volumes. Nevertheless, the limited number of eligible studies and cross-sectional study designs warrant further research to draw more robust conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Zuliani Ramli
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Mohamad Fairuz Yahaya
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Azlina Mohd Fahami
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hanani Abdul Manan
- Functional Image Processing Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Meharvan Singh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Hanafi Ahmad Damanhuri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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3
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Huang H, Oo TT, Apaijai N, Chattipakorn N, Chattipakorn SC. An Updated Review of Mitochondrial Transplantation as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy Against Cerebral Ischemia and Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:1865-1883. [PMID: 36595193 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03200-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Regardless of the progress made in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke, it remains a leading cause of adult disability and death. To date, the most effective treatment for ischemic stroke is the timely recanalization of the occluded artery. However, the short time window and reperfusion injury have greatly limited its application and efficacy. Mitochondrial dysfunction and ATP depletion have become regarded as being hallmarks of neuropathophysiology following ischemic stroke. Mitochondrial transplantation is a novel potential therapeutic intervention for ischemic stroke that has sparked widespread concern during the past few years. This review summarizes and discusses the effects of mitochondrial transplantation in in vitro and in vivo ischemic stroke models. In addition, pharmacological interventions promoting mitochondrial transplantation are reviewed and discussed. We also discuss the potential challenges to the clinical application of mitochondrial transplantation in the treatment of ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huatuo Huang
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Thura Tun Oo
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Nattayaporn Apaijai
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Nipon Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Cardiac Electrophysiology Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Siriporn C Chattipakorn
- Neurophysiology Unit, Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 50200, Chiang Mai, Thailand. .,Center of Excellence in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand. .,Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
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4
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Riche K, Lenard NR. Quercetin's Effects on Glutamate Cytotoxicity. Molecules 2022; 27:7620. [PMID: 36364448 PMCID: PMC9657878 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The potentially therapeutic effects of the naturally abundant plant flavonoid quercetin have been extensively studied. An extensive body of literature suggests that quercetin's powerful antioxidant effects may relate to its ability to treat disease. Glutamate excitotoxicity occurs when a neuron is overstimulated by the neurotransmitter glutamate and causes dysregulation of intracellular calcium concentrations. Quercetin has been shown to be preventative against many forms of neuronal cell death resulting from glutamate excitotoxicity, such as oncosis, intrinsic apoptosis, mitochondrial permeability transition, ferroptosis, phagoptosis, lysosomal cell death, parthanatos, and death by reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) generation. The clinical importance for the attenuation of glutamate excitotoxicity arises from the need to deter the continuous formation of tissue infarction caused by various neurological diseases, such as ischemic stroke, seizures, neurodegenerative diseases, and trauma. This review aims to summarize what is known concerning glutamate physiology and glutamate excitotoxic pathophysiology and provide further insight into quercetin's potential to hinder neuronal death caused by cell death pathways activated by glutamate excitotoxicity. Quercetin's bioavailability may limit its use clinically, however. Thus, future research into ways to increase its bioavailability are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Natalie R. Lenard
- Department of Biology, School of Arts and Sciences, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, 5414 Brittany Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
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5
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Zhao A, Liu N, Yao M, Zhang Y, Yao Z, Feng Y, Liu J, Zhou G. A Review of Neuroprotective Effects and Mechanisms of Ginsenosides From Panax Ginseng in Treating Ischemic Stroke. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:946752. [PMID: 35873557 PMCID: PMC9302711 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.946752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke has been considered one of the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide, associated with a series of complex pathophysiological processes. However, effective therapeutic methods for ischemic stroke are still limited. Panax ginseng, a valuable traditional Chinese medicine, has been long used in eastern countries for various diseases. Ginsenosides, the main active ingredient of Panax ginseng, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects on ischemic stroke injury during the last decade. In this article, we summarized the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke and reviewed the literature on ginsenosides studies in preclinical and clinical ischemic stroke. Available findings showed that both major ginsenosides and minor ginsenosides (such as Rg3, Rg5, and Rh2) has a potential neuroprotective effect, mainly through attenuating the excitotoxicity, Ca2+ overload, mitochondria dysfunction, blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative, anti-apoptosis, anti-pyroptosis, anti-autophagy, improving angiogenesis, and neurogenesis. Therefore, this review brings a current understanding of the mechanisms of ginsenosides in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Further studies, especially in clinical trials, will be important to confirm the clinical value of ginseng and ginsenosides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimei Zhao
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Neuroscience Centre, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Beijing Increasepharm Safety and Efficacy Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Mingjiang Yao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Region, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yehao Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Region, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zengyu Yao
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Neuroscience Centre, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yujing Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Punan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianxun Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Region, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Xiyuan Hospital of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jianxun Liu, ; Guoping Zhou,
| | - Guoping Zhou
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Neuroscience Centre, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jianxun Liu, ; Guoping Zhou,
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6
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Islas-Fabila P, Orozco-Gregorio H, Roldan-Santiago P, Waytula M, Gonzalez-Hernandez M, Vega-Manriquez X, Jimenez-Collado CA, Bonilla-Jaime H. Treatments and therapeutic protocols for the recovery of an asphyxiated new-born: A review of pre-clinical and clinical studies in human neonates and in different animal models. VET MED-CZECH 2022; 67:271-297. [PMID: 39100642 PMCID: PMC11296226 DOI: 10.17221/43/2021-vetmed] [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: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this review is to ascertain the advantages and disadvantages of several treatments and therapeutic protocols that have been used for the prevention and treatment of perinatal asphyxia in human neonates and in different animal models. Perinatal asphyxia is one of the main causes of mortality worldwide and is an important factor in triggering physio-metabolic disorders that result in serious neurological consequences and learning disorders not only in human foetuses and neonates, but also in animals. In recent years, the search for new pharmacological protocols to prevent and reverse physio-metabolic disorders and brain damage derived from perinatal asphyxia has been and continues to be the subject of intense research. Currently, within these pharmacological protocols, therapeutic strategies have been evaluated that use respiratory and hormonal stimulants, as well as hypothermic therapies in combination with other putative neuroprotective agents. Similarly, energy supplements have been evaluated with the objective of preventing perinatal asphyxia and treating new-borns with this condition, and to decrease the incidence of neonatal and foetal deaths associated with it. However, despite these promising advances, this pathology has persisted, since the administration of these therapies in low doses may not exert a neuroprotective effect or, in high doses, can trigger adverse effects (such as reduced cardiac contractility, reduced cerebral blood flow, poor perfusion, sympathetic and neuroendocrine stimulation, and increased blood viscosity) in human foetuses and neonates as well as in different animal models (rats, piglets, sheep and rabbits). Therefore, it is important to determine the minimum effective dose with which these therapies exert a neuroprotective effect, as well as the mode of administration, the duration of therapy, etc. Therefore, until a powerful strategy is found to improve the consequences of suffocation, this topic will continue to be the subject of intensive research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma Islas-Fabila
- Doctoral Program in Biological Sciences and Health, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, México City, México
| | | | - Patricia Roldan-Santiago
- Reproduction Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - Marilyn Waytula
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad del Valle de México, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, México
| | | | - Xochil Vega-Manriquez
- Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, México
| | | | - Herlinda Bonilla-Jaime
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, México City, México
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7
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Kaplan-Arabaci O, Acari A, Ciftci P, Gozuacik D. Glutamate Scavenging as a Neuroreparative Strategy in Ischemic Stroke. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:866738. [PMID: 35401202 PMCID: PMC8984161 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.866738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is the second highest reason of death in the world and the leading cause of disability. The ischemic stroke makes up the majority of stroke cases that occur due to the blockage of blood vessels. Therapeutic applications for ischemic stroke include thrombolytic treatments that are in limited usage and only applicable to less than 10% of the total stroke patients, but there are promising new approaches. The main cause of ischemic neuronal death is glutamate excitotoxicity. There have been multiple studies focusing on neuroprotection via reduction of glutamate both in ischemic stroke and other neurodegenerative diseases that ultimately failed due to the obstacles in delivery. At that point, systemic glutamate grabbing, or scavenging is an ingenious way of decreasing glutamate levels upon ischemic stroke. The main advantage of this new therapeutic method is the scavengers working in the circulating blood so that there is no interference with the natural brain neurophysiology. In this review, we explain the molecular mechanisms of ischemic stroke, provide brief information about existing drugs and approaches, and present novel systemic glutamate scavenging methods. This review hopefully will elucidate the potential usage of the introduced therapeutic approaches in stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oykum Kaplan-Arabaci
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Turkey.,Sabancı University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alperen Acari
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pinar Ciftci
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Devrim Gozuacik
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Turkey.,Sabancı University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Istanbul, Turkey.,School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
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8
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Björkgren I, Mendoza S, Chung DH, Haoui M, Petersen NT, Lishko PV. The epithelial potassium channel Kir7.1 is stimulated by progesterone. J Gen Physiol 2021; 153:212552. [PMID: 34387656 PMCID: PMC8374857 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202112924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The choroid plexus (CP) epithelium secretes cerebrospinal fluid and plays an important role in healthy homeostasis of the brain. CP function can be influenced by sex steroid hormones; however, the precise molecular mechanism of such regulation is not well understood. Here, using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from male and female murine CP cells, we show that application of progesterone resulted in specific and strong potentiation of the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir7.1, an essential protein that is expressed in CP and is required for survival. The potentiation was progesterone specific and independent of other known progesterone receptors expressed in CP. This effect was recapitulated with recombinant Kir7.1, as well as with endogenous Kir7.1 expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium. Current-clamp studies further showed a progesterone-induced hyperpolarization of CP cells. Our results provide evidence of a progesterone-driven control of tissues in which Kir7.1 is present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Björkgren
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Sarah Mendoza
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Dong Hwa Chung
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Monika Haoui
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Natalie True Petersen
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Polina V Lishko
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
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9
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Mills DJ. The Aging GABAergic System and Its Nutritional Support. J Nutr Metab 2021; 2021:6655064. [PMID: 33986956 PMCID: PMC8093074 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6655064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is associated with a decline in hormones and an associated decline in GABAergic function and calcium and ion current dysregulation. Neurosteroid hormones act as direct calcium channel blockers, or they can act indirectly on calcium channels through their interaction with GABA receptors. The calcium channel dysfunction associated with hormone loss further leads to an excitatory cell state, which can ultimately lead to cell death. The calcium theory of aging posits that cellular mechanisms, which maintain the homeostasis of cytosol Ca2+ concentration, play a key role in brain aging and that sustained changes in Ca2+ homeostasis provide the final common pathway for age-associated brain changes. There is a link between hormone loss and calcium dysregulation. Loss of calcium regulation associated with aging can lead to an excitatory cell state, primarily in the mitochondria and nerve cells, which can ultimately lead to cell death if not kept in check. A decline in GABAergic function can also be specifically tied to declines in progesterone, allopregnanolone, and DHEA levels associated with aging. This decline in GABAergic function associated with hormone loss ultimately affects GABAergic inhibition or excitement and calcium regulation throughout the body. In addition, declines in GABAergic function can also be tied to vitamin status and to toxic chemicals in the food supply. The decline in GABAergic function associated with aging has an effect on just about every body organ system. Nutritional support of the GABAergic system with supportive foods, vitamins, and GABA or similar GABA receptor ligands may address some of the GABAergic dysfunction associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetra J. Mills
- Patent Trial and Appeal Board Biotechnology, 5232 Capon Hill Pl, Burke, VA 22015, USA
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10
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Amirkhosravi L, Khaksari M, Sheibani V, Shahrokhi N, Ebrahimi MN, Amiresmaili S, Salmani N. Improved spatial memory, neurobehavioral outcomes, and neuroprotective effect after progesterone administration in ovariectomized rats with traumatic brain injury: Role of RU486 progesterone receptor antagonist. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:349-359. [PMID: 33995946 PMCID: PMC8087858 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2021.50973.11591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The contribution of classic progesterone receptors (PR) in interceding the neuroprotective efficacy of progesterone (P4) on the prevention of brain edema and long-time behavioral disturbances was assessed in traumatic brain injury (TBI). MATERIALS AND METHODS Female Wistar rats were ovariectomized and apportioned into 6 groups: sham, TBI, oil, P4, vehicle, and RU486. P4 or oil was injected following TBI. The antagonist of PR (RU486) or DMSO was administered before TBI. The brain edema and destruction of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) were determined. Intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), and beam walk (BW) task were evaluated previously and at various times post-trauma. Long-time locomotor and cognitive consequences were measured one day before and on days 3, 7, 14, and 21 after the trauma. RESULTS RU486 eliminated the inhibitory effects of P4 on brain edema and BBB leakage (P<0.05, P<0.001, respectively). RU486 inhibited the decremental effect of P4 on ICP as well as the increasing effect of P4 on CPP (P<0.001) after TBI. Also, RU486 inhibited the effect of P4 on the increase in traversal time and reduction in vestibulomotor score in the BW task (P<0.001). TBI induced motor, cognitive, and anxiety-like disorders, which lasted for 3 weeks after TBI; but, P4 prevented these cognitive and behavioral abnormalities (P<0.05), and RU486 opposed this P4 effect (P<0.001). CONCLUSION The classic progesterone receptors have neuroprotective effects and prevent long-time behavioral and memory deficiency after brain trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Amirkhosravi
- Neuroscience Research and Physiology Research Centers, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khaksari
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Vahid Sheibani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nader Shahrokhi
- Physiology Research Centers, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Navid Ebrahimi
- Neuroscience Research and Physiology Research Centers, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Neda Salmani
- Department of Psychology, Genetic Institute, Islamic Azad University- Zarand Branch, Kerman, Iran
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11
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Belov Kirdajova D, Kriska J, Tureckova J, Anderova M. Ischemia-Triggered Glutamate Excitotoxicity From the Perspective of Glial Cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:51. [PMID: 32265656 PMCID: PMC7098326 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A plethora of neurological disorders shares a final common deadly pathway known as excitotoxicity. Among these disorders, ischemic injury is a prominent cause of death and disability worldwide. Brain ischemia stems from cardiac arrest or stroke, both responsible for insufficient blood supply to the brain parenchyma. Glucose and oxygen deficiency disrupts oxidative phosphorylation, which results in energy depletion and ionic imbalance, followed by cell membrane depolarization, calcium (Ca2+) overload, and extracellular accumulation of excitatory amino acid glutamate. If tight physiological regulation fails to clear the surplus of this neurotransmitter, subsequent prolonged activation of glutamate receptors forms a vicious circle between elevated concentrations of intracellular Ca2+ ions and aberrant glutamate release, aggravating the effect of this ischemic pathway. The activation of downstream Ca2+-dependent enzymes has a catastrophic impact on nervous tissue leading to cell death, accompanied by the formation of free radicals, edema, and inflammation. After decades of “neuron-centric” approaches, recent research has also finally shed some light on the role of glial cells in neurological diseases. It is becoming more and more evident that neurons and glia depend on each other. Neuronal cells, astrocytes, microglia, NG2 glia, and oligodendrocytes all have their roles in what is known as glutamate excitotoxicity. However, who is the main contributor to the ischemic pathway, and who is the unsuspecting victim? In this review article, we summarize the so-far-revealed roles of cells in the central nervous system, with particular attention to glial cells in ischemia-induced glutamate excitotoxicity, its origins, and consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denisa Belov Kirdajova
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (ASCR), Prague, Czechia.,Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jan Kriska
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (ASCR), Prague, Czechia.,Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jana Tureckova
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (ASCR), Prague, Czechia
| | - Miroslava Anderova
- Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic (ASCR), Prague, Czechia.,Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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12
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Ungard RG, Zhu YF, Yang S, Nakhla P, Parzei N, Zhu KL, Singh G. Response to pregabalin and progesterone differs in male and female rat models of neuropathic and cancer pain. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PAIN-REVUE CANADIENNE DE LA DOULEUR 2020; 4:39-58. [PMID: 33987485 PMCID: PMC7951160 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2020.1724776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Cancer pain involves nervous system damage and pathological neurogenesis. Neuropathic pain arises from damage to the nervous system and is driven by ectopic signaling. Both progesterone and pregabalin are neuroprotective in animal models, and there is evidence that both drugs bind to and inhibit voltage-gated calcium channels. Aims: This study was designed to characterize the effects of progesterone and pregabalin in preclinical models of cancer and neuropathic pain in both sexes. Methods: We measured peripheral sensory signaling by intracellular in vivo electrophysiology and behavioral indicators of pain in rat models of cancer-induced bone pain and neuropathic pain. Results: Female but not male models of cancer pain showed a behavioral response to treatment and pregabalin reduced excitability in C and A high-threshold but not low-threshold sensory neurons of both sexes. Male models of neuropathic pain treated with pregabalin demonstrated higher signaling thresholds only in A high-threshold neurons, and behavioral data indicated a clear recovery to baseline mechanical withdrawal thresholds in all treatment groups. Female rat treatment groups did not show excitability changes in sensory neurons, but all demonstrated higher mechanical withdrawal thresholds than vehicle-treated females, although not to baseline levels. Athymic female rat models of neuropathic pain showed no behavioral or electrophysiological responses to treatment. Conclusions: Both pregabalin and progesterone showed evidence of efficacy in male models of neuropathic pain. These results add to the evidence demonstrating differential effects of treatments for pain in male and female animals and widely differing responses in models of cancer and neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Ungard
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yong Fang Zhu
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Yang
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Nakhla
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natalka Parzei
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kan Lun Zhu
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gurmit Singh
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Baud O, Berkane N. Hormonal Changes Associated With Intra-Uterine Growth Restriction: Impact on the Developing Brain and Future Neurodevelopment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:179. [PMID: 30972026 PMCID: PMC6443724 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The environment in which a fetus develops is not only important for its growth and maturation but also for its long-term postnatal health and neurodevelopment. Several hormones including glucocorticosteroids, estrogens and progesterone, insulin growth factor and thyroid hormones, carefully regulate the growth of the fetus and its metabolism during pregnancy by controlling the supply of nutrients crossing the placenta. In addition to fetal synthesis, hormones regulating fetal growth are also expressed and regulated in the placenta, and they play a key role in the vulnerability of the developing brain and its maturation. This review summarizes the current understanding and evidence regarding the involvement of hormonal dysregulation associated with intra-uterine growth restriction and its consequences on brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Baud
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Department of Women-Children-Teenagers, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Inserm U1141, Sorbonne, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Olivier Baud
| | - Nadia Berkane
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Women-Children-Teenagers, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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14
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Allitt BJ, Johnstone VPA, Richards KL, Yan EB, Rajan R. Progesterone Sharpens Temporal Response Profiles of Sensory Cortical Neurons in Animals Exposed to Traumatic Brain Injury. Cell Transplant 2018; 26:1202-1223. [PMID: 28933224 PMCID: PMC5657734 DOI: 10.1177/0963689717714326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) initiates a cascade of pathophysiological changes that are both complex and difficult to treat. Progesterone (P4) is a neuroprotective treatment option that has shown excellent preclinical benefits in the treatment of TBI, but these benefits have not translated well in the clinic. We have previously shown that P4 exacerbates the already hypoactive upper cortical responses in the short-term post-TBI and does not reduce upper cortical hyperactivity in the long term, and we concluded that there is no tangible benefit to sensory cortex firing strength. Here we examined the effects of P4 treatment on temporal coding resolution in the rodent sensory cortex in both the short term (4 d) and long term (8 wk) following impact-acceleration–induced TBI. We show that in the short-term postinjury, TBI has no effect on sensory cortex temporal resolution and that P4 also sharpens the response profile in all cortical layers in the uninjured brain and all layers other than layer 2 (L2) in the injured brain. In the long term, TBI broadens the response profile in all cortical layers despite firing rate hyperactivity being localized to upper cortical layers and P4 sharpens the response profile in TBI animals in all layers other than L2 and has no long-term effect in the sham brain. These results indicate that P4 has long-term effects on sensory coding that may translate to beneficial perceptual outcomes. The effects seen here, combined with previous beneficial preclinical data, emphasize that P4 is still a potential treatment option in ameliorating TBI-induced disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Allitt
- 1 Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Victoria P A Johnstone
- 1 Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,2 School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Katrina L Richards
- 1 Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Edwin B Yan
- 1 Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ramesh Rajan
- 1 Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Beta-Estradiol Regulates Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels and Estrogen Receptors in Telocytes from Human Myometrium. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051413. [PMID: 29747396 PMCID: PMC5983827 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated calcium channels and estrogen receptors are essential players in uterine physiology, and their association with different calcium signaling pathways contributes to healthy and pathological conditions of the uterine myometrium. Among the properties of the various cell subtypes present in human uterine myometrium, there is increasing evidence that calcium oscillations in telocytes (TCs) contribute to contractile activity and pregnancy. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of beta-estradiol on voltage-gated calcium channels and estrogen receptors in TCs from human uterine myometrium and to understand their role in pregnancy. For this purpose, we employed patch-clamp recordings, ratiometric Fura-2-based calcium imaging analysis, and qRT-PCR techniques for the analysis of cultured human myometrial TCs derived from pregnant and non-pregnant uterine samples. In human myometrial TCs from both non-pregnant and pregnant uterus, we evidenced by qRT-PCR the presence of genes encoding for voltage-gated calcium channels (Cav3.1, Ca3.2, Cav3.3, Cav2.1), estrogen receptors (ESR1, ESR2, GPR30), and nuclear receptor coactivator 3 (NCOA3). Pregnancy significantly upregulated Cav3.1 and downregulated Cav3.2, Cav3.3, ESR1, ESR2, and NCOA3, compared to the non-pregnant condition. Beta-estradiol treatment (24 h, 10, 100, 1000 nM) downregulated Cav3.2, Cav3.3, Cav1.2, ESR1, ESR2, GRP30, and NCOA3 in TCs from human pregnant uterine myometrium. We also confirmed the functional expression of voltage-gated calcium channels by patch-clamp recordings and calcium imaging analysis of TCs from pregnant human myometrium by perfusing with BAY K8644, which induced calcium influx through these channels. Additionally, we demonstrated that beta-estradiol (1000 nM) antagonized the effect of BAY K8644 (2.5 or 5 µM) in the same preparations. In conclusion, we evidenced the presence of voltage-gated calcium channels and estrogen receptors in TCs from non-pregnant and pregnant human uterine myometrium and their gene expression regulation by beta-estradiol in pregnant conditions. Further exploration of the calcium signaling in TCs and its modulation by estrogen hormones will contribute to the understanding of labor and pregnancy mechanisms and to the development of effective strategies to reduce the risk of premature birth.
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16
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Azeez JM, Vini R, Remadevi V, Surendran A, Jaleel A, Santhosh Kumar TR, Sreeja S. VDAC1 and SERCA3 Mediate Progesterone-Triggered Ca2+ Signaling in Breast Cancer Cells. J Proteome Res 2017; 17:698-709. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.7b00754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Juberiya M. Azeez
- Cancer
Research Program and ‡Proteomics Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Ravindran Vini
- Cancer
Research Program and ‡Proteomics Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Viji Remadevi
- Cancer
Research Program and ‡Proteomics Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Arun Surendran
- Cancer
Research Program and ‡Proteomics Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Abdul Jaleel
- Cancer
Research Program and ‡Proteomics Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - T. R. Santhosh Kumar
- Cancer
Research Program and ‡Proteomics Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - S. Sreeja
- Cancer
Research Program and ‡Proteomics Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
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17
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Progesterone Provides the Pleiotropic Neuroprotective Effect on Traumatic Brain Injury Through the Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway. Neurocrit Care 2017; 26:292-300. [PMID: 27995513 PMCID: PMC5334408 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-016-0342-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Objective This study was to investigate the role of Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway in the pleiotropic neuroprotective effect of progesterone (PROG) on traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods The Nrf2-knockout (Nrf2−/−) and C57 mice were respectively subjected to a lateral cortical impact injury caused by a free-falling object and randomly divided into three groups: sham-operated, trauma, and trauma + PROG treatment group. The PROG treatment group was given PROG (32 mg/kg of body weight, intraperitoneal injection) immediately after injury. For all groups, a series of brain samples were obtained after trauma at 24 and 72 h, respectively. The cerebral edema was evaluated; the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α was measured using ELISA array, and the apoptosis index was detected by TUNEL. Flow cytometry was used to detect the intracellular calcium concentration. Results The water content, the apoptosis index, the levels of inflammatory cytokine, and the intracellular calcium ion were significantly decreased with the PROG treatment in C57 mice with TBI model. However, the effect of PROG on TBI was not found in the Nrf2−/− mouse model of TBI. Conclusions PROG reduced cerebral edema, apoptosis, inflammatory reaction, and intracellular calcium ion overload effects after TBI. These beneficial effects were not seen in the Nrf2−/− mouse model of TBI. The results from this study suggested that the Nrf2/ARE signal pathway may be involved in the pleiotropic neuroprotective effect of PROG on TBI.
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18
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Yu P, Li S, Zhang Z, Wen X, Quan W, Tian Q, Gao C, Su W, Zhang J, Jiang R. Progesterone-mediated angiogenic activity of endothelial progenitor cell and angiogenesis in traumatic brain injury rats were antagonized by progesterone receptor antagonist. Cell Prolif 2017; 50. [PMID: 28752929 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Progesterone (P4) has the potential therapeutic effects for traumatic brain injury (TBI) whose recovery depended on the enhanced angiogenesis. Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) plays an essential role in vascular biology. We previously demonstrated that P4 administration improved circulating EPC level and neurological recovery of rat with TBI. Here, we hypothesized that P4 augmented angiogenic potential of EPC and the angiogenesis-related neurorestoration after TBI through classical progesterone receptor (PR). MATERIALS AND METHODS EPC derived from rats were stimulated with graded concentrations (0, 10-10 , 10-9 , 5 × 10-9 , 10-8 , 10-7 mol/L) of P4 or 10-6 mol/L ulipristal acetate (UPA, a PR antagonist). Male rats were subjected to cortical impact injury and treated with (i) DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide), (ii) P4 and (iii) P4 and UPA. RESULTS It showed that P4 improved the angiogenic potential of EPC, including tube formation, adhesion, migration and vascular endothelial growth factor secretion, in a dose-dependent fashion with the maximal effect achieved at 10-9 mol/L P4. High concentration (10-7 mol/L) of P4 impaired the angiogenic potential of EPC. Notably, 10-6 mol/L UPA antagonized the stimulatory effects of 10-9 mol/L P4. After administrating P4, a significant improvement of neurological function and the restoration of the leaked blood-brain barrier were observed as well as a reduction of the brain water content. Both vessel density and expression of occludin of vessels were increased. When UPA was administered with P4, the neural restoration and angiogenesis were all reversed. Western blot showed that 10-9 mol/L P4 increased the content of PRA and PRB of EPC, while 10-7 mol/L P4 reduced the content of both PR isoforms, but there was no change found in the TBI rats. CONCLUSIONS It may suggest that P4-mediated angiogenic activity of EPC and angiogenesis in TBI rats were antagonized by PR antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Shengjie Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhifei Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaolong Wen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Quan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Qilong Tian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Chuang Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanqiang Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianning Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
| | - Rongcai Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neurotrauma Neurorepair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin, China
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19
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Stekovic S, Ruckenstuhl C, Royer P, Winkler-Hermaden C, Carmona-Gutierrez D, Fröhlich KU, Kroemer G, Madeo F. The neuroprotective steroid progesterone promotes mitochondrial uncoupling, reduces cytosolic calcium and augments stress resistance in yeast cells. MICROBIAL CELL (GRAZ, AUSTRIA) 2017; 4:191-199. [PMID: 28660203 PMCID: PMC5473691 DOI: 10.15698/mic2017.06.577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The steroid hormone progesterone is not only a crucial sex hormone, but also serves as a neurosteroid, thus playing an important role in brain function. Epidemiological data suggest that progesterone improves the recovery of patients after traumatic brain injury. Brain injuries are often connected to elevated calcium spikes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and programmed cell death affecting neurons. Here, we establish a yeast model to study progesterone-mediated cytoprotection. External supply of progesterone protected yeast cells from apoptosis-inducing stress stimuli and resulted in elevated mitochondrial oxygen uptake accompanied by a drop in ROS generation and ATP levels during chronological aging. In addition, cellular Ca2+ concentrations were reduced upon progesterone treatment, and this effect occurred independently of known Ca2+ transporters and mitochondrial respiration. All effects were also independent of Dap1, the yeast orthologue of the progesterone receptor. Altogether, our observations provide new insights into the cytoprotective effects of progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slaven Stekovic
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christoph Ruckenstuhl
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Philipp Royer
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | | | | | - Kai-Uwe Fröhlich
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Equipe 11 labellisée par la Ligue contre le Cancer, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frank Madeo
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, NAWI Graz, University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed Graz, Austria
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20
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Brotfain E, Gruenbaum SE, Boyko M, Kutz R, Zlotnik A, Klein M. Neuroprotection by Estrogen and Progesterone in Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury. Curr Neuropharmacol 2017; 14:641-53. [PMID: 26955967 PMCID: PMC4981744 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x14666160309123554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years there has been a growing body of clinical and laboratory evidence demonstrating the neuroprotective effects of estrogen and progesterone after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI). In humans, women have been shown to have a lower incidence of morbidity and mortality after TBI compared with age-matched men. Similarly, numerous laboratory studies have demonstrated that estrogen and progesterone administration is associated with a mortality reduction, improvement in neurological outcomes, and a reduction in neuronal apoptosis after TBI and SCI. Here, we review the evidence that supports hormone-related neuroprotection and discuss possible underlying mechanisms. Estrogen and progesterone-mediated neuroprotection are thought to be related to their effects on hormone receptors, signaling systems, direct antioxidant effects, effects on astrocytes and microglia, modulation of the inflammatory response, effects on cerebral blood flow and metabolism, and effects on mediating glutamate excitotoxicity. Future laboratory research is needed to better determine the mechanisms underlying the hormones' neuroprotective effects, which will allow for more clinical studies. Furthermore, large randomized clinical control trials are needed to better assess their role in human neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeni Brotfain
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Soroka Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
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21
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability, and the identification of effective, inexpensive and widely practicable treatments for brain injury is of great public health importance worldwide. Progesterone is a naturally produced hormone that has well-defined pharmacokinetics, is widely available, inexpensive, and has steroidal, neuroactive and neurosteroidal actions in the central nervous system. It is, therefore, a potential candidate for treating TBI patients. However, uncertainty exists regarding the efficacy of this treatment. This is an update of our previous review of the same title, published in 2012. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of progesterone on neurologic outcome, mortality and disability in patients with acute TBI. To assess the safety of progesterone in patients with acute TBI. SEARCH METHODS We updated our searches of the following databases: the Cochrane Injuries Group's Specialised Register (30 September 2016), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; Issue 9, 2016), MEDLINE (Ovid; 1950 to 30 September 2016), Embase (Ovid; 1980 to 30 September 2016), Web of Science Core Collection: Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science (CPCI-S; 1990 to 30 September 2016); and trials registries: Clinicaltrials.gov (30 September 2016) and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (30 September 2016). SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of progesterone versus no progesterone (or placebo) for the treatment of people with acute TBI. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors screened search results independently to identify potentially relevant studies for inclusion. Independently, two review authors selected trials that met the inclusion criteria from the results of the screened searches, with no disagreement. MAIN RESULTS We included five RCTs in the review, with a total of 2392 participants. We assessed one trial to be at low risk of bias; two at unclear risk of bias (in one multicentred trial the possibility of centre effects was unclear, whilst the other trial was stopped early), and two at high risk of bias, due to issues with blinding and selective reporting of outcome data.All included studies reported the effects of progesterone on mortality and disability. Low quality evidence revealed no evidence of a difference in overall mortality between the progesterone group and placebo group (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.28, I² = 62%; 5 studies, 2392 participants, 2376 pooled for analysis). Using the GRADE criteria, we assessed the quality of the evidence as low, due to the substantial inconsistency across studies.There was also no evidence of a difference in disability (unfavourable outcomes as assessed by the Glasgow Outcome Score) between the progesterone group and placebo group (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.06, I² = 37%; 4 studies; 2336 participants, 2260 pooled for analysis). We assessed the quality of this evidence to be moderate, due to inconsistency across studies.Data were not available for meta-analysis for the outcomes of mean intracranial pressure, blood pressure, body temperature or adverse events. However, data from three studies showed no difference in mean intracranial pressure between the groups. Data from another study showed no evidence of a difference in blood pressure or body temperature between the progesterone and placebo groups, although there was evidence that intravenous progesterone infusion increased the frequency of phlebitis (882 participants). There was no evidence of a difference in the rate of other adverse events between progesterone treatment and placebo in the other three studies that reported on adverse events. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This updated review did not find evidence that progesterone could reduce mortality or disability in patients with TBI. However, concerns regarding inconsistency (heterogeneity among participants and the intervention used) across included studies reduce our confidence in these results.There is no evidence from the available data that progesterone therapy results in more adverse events than placebo, aside from evidence from a single study of an increase in phlebitis (in the case of intravascular progesterone).There were not enough data on the effects of progesterone therapy for our other outcomes of interest (intracranial pressure, blood pressure, body temperature) for us to be able to draw firm conclusions.Future trials would benefit from a more precise classification of TBI and attempts to optimise progesterone dosage and scheduling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junpeng Ma
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurosurgeryNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Siqing Huang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurosurgeryNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Shu Qin
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurosurgeryNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Chao You
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurosurgeryNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Yunhui Zeng
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurosurgeryNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
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Bourque M, Morissette M, Al Sweidi S, Caruso D, Melcangi RC, Di Paolo T. Neuroprotective Effect of Progesterone in MPTP-Treated Male Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2016; 103:300-14. [PMID: 26227546 DOI: 10.1159/000438789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have reported on the neuroprotective activity of estradiol, whereas the effect of the other ovarian steroid, progesterone, is much less documented. METHODS This study sought to investigate neuroprotection with a low dose of progesterone (1 µg) in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated male mice to model Parkinson's disease and compare it to the effect of this steroid in intact mice (experiment 1). We also investigated if high doses of progesterone could protect dopaminergic neurons already exposed to MPTP (experiment 2). We measured progesterone effects on various dopaminergic markers [dopamine and its metabolites, dopamine transporter (DAT) and vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2)] and on neuroactive steroids in both plasma and the brain. RESULTS For experiment 1, our results showed that progesterone completely prevented the effect of MPTP toxicity on dopamine concentrations, on the increase in the 3-methoxytyramine/dopamine ratio, as well as on VMAT2-specific binding in the striatum and the substantia nigra. Progesterone decreased MPTP effects on 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid concentrations and DAT-specific binding in the lateral part of the anterior striatum and in the middle striatum (medial and lateral parts). Progesterone treatment of intact mice had no effect on the markers investigated. For experiment 2, measures of dopaminergic markers in the striatum showed that 8 mg/kg of progesterone was the most effective dose to reduce MPTP effects, and more limited effects were observed with 16 mg/kg. We found that progesterone treatment increases the levels of brain progesterone itself as well as of its metabolites. CONCLUSION Our result showed that progesterone has neuroprotective effects on dopaminergic neurons in MPTP-treated male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Qux00E9;bec, Centre Hospitalier de l'Universitx00E9; Laval, Quebec City, Que., Canada
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Abstract
Background: Despite positive preclinical studies and two positive Phase II clinical trials, two large Phase III clinical trials of progesterone treatment of acute traumatic brain injury (TBI) recently ended with negative results, so a 100% failure rate continues to plague the field of TBI trials. Methods: This paper reviews and analyses the trial structures and outcomes and discusses the implications of these failures for future drug and clinical trial development. Persistently negative trial outcomes have led to disinvestment in new drug research by companies and policy-makers and disappointment for patients and their families, failures which represent a major public health concern. The problem is not limited to TBI. Failure rates are high for trials in stroke, sepsis, cardiology, cancer and orthopaedics, among others. Results: This paper discusses some of the reasons why the Phase III trials have failed. These reasons may include faulty extrapolation from pre-clinical data in designing clinical trials and the use of subjective outcome measures that accurately reflect neither the nature of the deficits nor long-term quantitative recovery. Conclusions: Better definitions of injury and healing and better outcome measures are essential to change the embrace of failure that has dominated the field for over 30 years. This review offers suggestions to improve the situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald G Stein
- a Department of Emergency Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , GA , USA
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24
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Liu L, Mao D, Liu L, Huang Y, Bo T. Effects of progesterone on glutamate transporter 2 and gamma-aminobutyric acid transporter 1 expression in the developing rat brain after recurrent seizures. Neural Regen Res 2015; 7:2036-42. [PMID: 25624835 PMCID: PMC4296423 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.26.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Seizures were induced by flurothyl inhalation. Rats were intramuscularly treated with progesterone after each seizure. Results demonstrated that glutamate transporter 2 and γ-aminobutyric acid transporter 1 expression levels were significantly increased in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of the developing rat brain following recurrent seizures. After progesterone treatment, glutamate transporter 2 protein expression was upregulated, but γ-aminobutyric acid transporter 1 levels decreased. These results suggest that glutamate transporter 2 and γ-aminobutyric acid transporter 1 are involved in the pathological processes of epilepsy. Progesterone can help maintain a balance between excitatory and inhibitory systems by modulating the amino acid transporter system, and protect the developing brain after recurrent seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjuan Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dingan Mao
- Department of Pediatrics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Liqun Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
| | - Tao Bo
- Department of Pediatrics, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, Hunan Province, China
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25
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Daly KM, Li Y, Lin DT. Imaging the Insertion of Superecliptic pHluorin-Labeled Dopamine D2 Receptor Using Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence Microscopy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 70:5.31.1-5.31.20. [PMID: 25559003 DOI: 10.1002/0471142301.ns0531s70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A better understanding of mechanisms governing receptor insertion to the plasma membrane (PM) requires an experimental approach with excellent spatial and temporal resolutions. Here we present a strategy that enables dynamic visualization of insertion events for dopamine D2 receptors into the PM. This approach includes tagging a pH-sensitive GFP, superecliptic pHluorin, to the extracellular domain of the receptor. By imaging pHluorin-tagged receptors under total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM), we were able to directly visualize individual receptor insertion events into the PM in cultured neurons. This novel imaging approach can be applied to both secreted proteins and many membrane proteins with an extracellular domain labeled with superecliptic pHluorin, and will ultimately allow for detailed dissections of the key mechanisms governing secretion of soluble proteins or the insertion of different membrane proteins to the PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Daly
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Yun Li
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Da-Ting Lin
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland.,The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine
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26
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Diaz-Arrastia R, Kochanek PM, Bergold P, Kenney K, Marx CE, Grimes CJB, Loh LTCY, Adam LTCGE, Oskvig D, Curley KC, Salzer W. Pharmacotherapy of traumatic brain injury: state of the science and the road forward: report of the Department of Defense Neurotrauma Pharmacology Workgroup. J Neurotrauma 2014; 31:135-58. [PMID: 23968241 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2013.3019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite substantial investments by government, philanthropic, and commercial sources over the past several decades, traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains an unmet medical need and a major source of disability and mortality in both developed and developing societies. The U.S. Department of Defense neurotrauma research portfolio contains more than 500 research projects funded at more than $700 million and is aimed at developing interventions that mitigate the effects of trauma to the nervous system and lead to improved quality of life outcomes. A key area of this portfolio focuses on the need for effective pharmacological approaches for treating patients with TBI and its associated symptoms. The Neurotrauma Pharmacology Workgroup was established by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (USAMRMC) with the overarching goal of providing a strategic research plan for developing pharmacological treatments that improve clinical outcomes after TBI. To inform this plan, the Workgroup (a) assessed the current state of the science and ongoing research and (b) identified research gaps to inform future development of research priorities for the neurotrauma research portfolio. The Workgroup identified the six most critical research priority areas in the field of pharmacological treatment for persons with TBI. The priority areas represent parallel efforts needed to advance clinical care; each requires independent effort and sufficient investment. These priority areas will help the USAMRMC and other funding agencies strategically guide their research portfolios to ensure the development of effective pharmacological approaches for treating patients with TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon Diaz-Arrastia
- 1 Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences , Bethesda, Maryland
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27
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He L, Zhang X, Wei X, Li Y. Progesterone attenuates aquaporin-4 expression in an astrocyte model of ischemia/reperfusion. Neurochem Res 2014; 39:2251-61. [PMID: 25200987 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-014-1427-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Revised: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 08/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested that progesterone may be involved in neuroprotection by preventing brain edema. In this study, we assessed the effects of progesterone on aquaporin-4 (AQP4) expression in an ischemia/reperfusion model of cultured rat astrocytes, and further explored the possible role of the protein kinase C (PKC) pathway in this course. We evaluate primary culture astrocytes exposed to 4 h oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) followed by 24 h reperfusion (OGD4h/R24h) as a means of simulating cortex ischemia and reperfusion, and test the effect of progesterone on AQP4 expression in response to OGD4h/R24h. Besides, the cell viability was assessed by MTT reduction and lactate dehydrogenase release assay, accompanied by cell morphology survey. At a concentration of 1 and 2 μM, progesterone significantly attenuated AQP4 at the level of both protein and mRNA and ameliorated the cell viability of astrocytes from OGD/reperfusion injury. Moreover, this effect was blocked by the PKC inhibitor Ro31-8220, which was employed before the OGD. These results indicate that progesterone exerts the protective effects and attenuates AQP4 expression in an astrocyte model of ischemia/reperfusion depending on the PKC signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu He
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin, 300070, China
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28
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D'Ambrosio R, Eastman CL, Fattore C, Perucca E. Novel frontiers in epilepsy treatments: preventing epileptogenesis by targeting inflammation. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 13:615-25. [PMID: 23738999 DOI: 10.1586/ern.13.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Currently available epilepsy drugs only affect the symptoms (seizures), and there is a need for innovative treatments that target the underlying disease. Increasing evidence points to inflammation as a potentially important mechanism in epileptogenesis. In the last decade, a new generation of etiologically realistic syndrome-specific experimental models have been developed, which are expected to capture the epileptogenic mechanisms operating in corresponding patient populations, and to exhibit similar treatment responsiveness. Recently, an intervention known to have broad-ranging anti-inflammatory effects (selective brain cooling) has been found to prevent the development of spontaneously occurring seizures in an etiologically realistic rat model of post-traumatic epilepsy. Several drugs used clinically for other indications also have the potential for inhibiting inflammation, and should be investigated for antiepileptogenic activity in these models. If results of such studies are positive, these compounds could rapidly enter Phase III trials in patients at high risk of developing epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raimondo D'Ambrosio
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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29
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The neuroprotective effects of progesterone on traumatic brain injury: current status and future prospects. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2013; 34:1485-90. [PMID: 24241345 PMCID: PMC3854945 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2013.160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 09/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in young adults. The secondary injury in traumatic brain injury consists of a complex cascade of processes that simultaneously react to the primary injury to the brain. This cascade has been the target of numerous therapeutic agents investigated over the last 30 years, but no neuroprotective treatment option is currently available that improve neurological outcome after traumatic brain injury. Progesterone has long been considered merely a female reproductive hormone. Numerous studies, however, show that progesterone has substantial pleiotropic properties as a neuroprotective agent in both animal models and humans. Here, we review the increasing evidence that progesterone can act as a neuroprotective agent to treat traumatic brain injury and the mechanisms underlying these effects. Additionally, we discuss the current progress of clinical studies on the application of progesterone in the treatment of traumatic brain injuries.
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30
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Ye JN, Chen XS, Su L, Liu YL, Cai QY, Zhan XL, Xu Y, Zhao SF, Yao ZX. Progesterone alleviates neural behavioral deficits and demyelination with reduced degeneration of oligodendroglial cells in cuprizone-induced mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e54590. [PMID: 23359803 PMCID: PMC3554738 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 12/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Demyelination occurs widely in neurodegenerative diseases. Progesterone has neuroprotective effects, is known to reduce the clinical scores and the inflammatory response. Progesterone also promotes remyelination in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and cuprizone-induced demyelinating brain. However, it still remains unclear whether progesterone can alleviate neural behavioral deficits and demyelination with degeneration of oligodendroglial cells in cuprizone-induced mice. In this study, mice were fed with 0.2% cuprizone to induce demyelination, and treated with progesterone to test its potential protective effect on neural behavioral deficits, demyelination and degeneration of oligodendroglial cells. Our results showed noticeable alleviation of neural behavioral deficits following progesterone treatment as assessed by changes in average body weight, and activity during the open field and Rota-rod tests when compared with the vehicle treated cuprizone group. Progesterone treatment alleviated demyelination as shown by Luxol fast blue staining, MBP immunohistochemical staining, and electron microscopy. There was an obvious decrease in TUNEL and Caspase-3-positive apoptotic cells, and an increase in the number of oligodendroglial cells staining positive for PDGFRα, Olig2, Sox10 and CC-1 antibody in the brains of cuprizone-induced mice after progesterone administration. These results indicate that progesterone can alleviate neural behavioral deficits and demyelination against oligodendroglial cell degeneration in cuprizone-induced mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Ning Ye
- Department of Neurology, Xin Qiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xing-Shu Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Le Su
- Squadron 9 of Cadet Brigade, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yun-Lai Liu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qi-Yan Cai
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Li Zhan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Physiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shi-Fu Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Xin Qiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- * E-mail: (Z-XY) (SZ); (S-FZ) (ZY)
| | - Zhong-Xiang Yao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Physiology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- * E-mail: (Z-XY) (SZ); (S-FZ) (ZY)
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31
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Su C, Cunningham RL, Rybalchenko N, Singh M. Progesterone increases the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor from glia via progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (Pgrmc1)-dependent ERK5 signaling. Endocrinology 2012; 153:4389-400. [PMID: 22778217 PMCID: PMC3423611 DOI: 10.1210/en.2011-2177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) is cytoprotective in various experimental models, but our understanding of the mechanisms involved is still incomplete. Our laboratory has implicated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling as an important mediator of P4's protective actions. We have shown that P4 increases the expression of BDNF, an effect mediated by the classical P4 receptor (PR), and that the protective effects of P4 were abolished using inhibitors of Trk receptor signaling. In an effort to extend our understanding of the interrelationship between P4 and BDNF signaling, we determined whether P4 influenced BDNF release and examined the role of the classical PR and a putative membrane PR, progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (Pgrmc1), as mediators of this response. Given recent data from our laboratory that supported the role of ERK5 in BDNF release, we also tested whether P4-induced BDNF release was mediated by ERK5. In this study, we found that P4 and the membrane-impermeable P4 (P4-BSA) both induced BDNF release from cultured C6 glial cells and primary astrocytes. Both these cells lack the classical nuclear/intracellular PR but express high levels of membrane-associated PR, including Pgrmc1. Using RNA interference-mediated knockdown of Pgrmc1 expression, we determined that P4-induced BDNF release was dependent on the expression of Pgrmc1, although pharmacological inhibition of the PR failed to alter the effects of P4. Furthermore, the BDNF release elicited by P4 was mediated by ERK5, and not ERK1/2. Collectively, our data describe that P4 elicits an increase in BDNF release from glia via a Pgrmc1-induced ERK5 signaling mechanism and identify Pgrmc1 as a potential therapeutic target for future hormone-based drug development for the treatment of such degenerative diseases as Alzheimer's disease as well as other diseases wherein neurotrophin dysregulation is noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Su
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Institute for Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Research, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, 3400 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, USA
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32
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Luoma JI, Stern CM, Mermelstein PG. Progesterone inhibition of neuronal calcium signaling underlies aspects of progesterone-mediated neuroprotection. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2012; 131:30-6. [PMID: 22101209 PMCID: PMC3303940 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2011.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone is being utilized as a therapeutic means to ameliorate neuron loss and cognitive dysfunction following traumatic brain injury. Although there have been numerous attempts to determine the means by which progesterone exerts neuroprotective effects, studies describing the underlying molecular mechanisms are lacking. What has become clear, however, is the notion that progesterone can thwart several physiological processes that are detrimental to neuron function and survival, including inflammation, edema, demyelination and excitotoxicity. One clue regarding the means by which progesterone has restorative value comes from the notion that these aforementioned biological processes all share the common theme of eliciting pronounced increases in intracellular calcium. Thus, we propose the hypothesis that progesterone regulation of calcium signaling underlies its ability to mitigate these cellular insults, ultimately leading to neuroprotection. Further, we describe recent findings that indicate neuroprotection is achieved via progesterone block of voltage-gated calcium channels, although additional outcomes may arise from blockade of various other ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Neurosteroids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie I Luoma
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, 321 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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33
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Guthrie DB, Stein DG, Liotta DC, Lockwood MA, Sayeed I, Atif F, Arrendale RF, Reddy GP, Evers TJ, Marengo JR, Howard RB, Culver DG, Natchus MG. Water-soluble progesterone analogues are effective, injectable treatments in animal models of traumatic brain injury. ACS Med Chem Lett 2012; 3:362-6. [PMID: 24900479 DOI: 10.1021/ml200303r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
After more than 30 years of research and 30 failed clinical trials with as many different treatments, progesterone is the first agent to demonstrate robust clinical efficacy as a treatment for traumatic brain injuries. It is currently being investigated in two, independent phase III clinical trials in hospital settings; however, it presents a formidable solubility challenge that has so far prevented the identification of a formulation that would be suitable for emergency field response use or battlefield situations. Accordingly, we have designed and tested a novel series of water-soluble analogues that address this critical need. We report here the synthesis of C-20 oxime conjugates of progesterone as therapeutic agents for traumatic brain injuries with comparable efficacy in animal models of traumatic brain injury and improved solubility and pharmacokinetic profiles. Pharmacodynamic analysis reveals that a nonprogesterone steroidal analogue may be primarily responsible for the observed activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Guthrie
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Donald G. Stein
- Emory University School of Medicine,
Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Dennis C. Liotta
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive, Atlanta, Georgia
30322, United States
| | - Mark A. Lockwood
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Iqbal Sayeed
- Emory University School of Medicine,
Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Fahim Atif
- Emory University School of Medicine,
Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Richard F. Arrendale
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - G. Prabhakar Reddy
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Taylor J. Evers
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Jose R. Marengo
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Randy B. Howard
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Deborah G. Culver
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Michael G. Natchus
- Emory Institute for Drug Discovery
(EIDD), Emory University, 1515 Dickey Drive,
Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
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34
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Stein DG, Cekic MM. Progesterone and vitamin d hormone as a biologic treatment of traumatic brain injury in the aged. PM R 2011; 3:S100-10. [PMID: 21703565 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2011.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2010] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
There is growing recognition that traumatic brain injury is a highly variable and complex systemic disorder that is refractory to therapies that target individual mechanisms. It is even more complex in elderly persons, in whom frailty, previous comorbidities, altered metabolism, and a long history of medication use are likely to complicate the secondary effects of brain trauma. Progesterone, one of the few neuroprotective agents that has shown promise for the treatment of acute brain injury, is now in national and international phase 3 multicenter trials. New findings show that vitamin D hormone (VDH) and VDH deficiency in the aging process (and across the developmental spectrum) may interact with progesterone and treatment for traumatic brain injury. In this article we review the use of progesterone and VDH as biologics-based therapies along with recent studies demonstrating that the combination of progesterone and VDH may promote better functional outcomes than either treatment independently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald G Stein
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 B Clifton Road NE, Suite 5100, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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35
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Stern CM, Meitzen J, Mermelstein PG. Corticotropin-releasing factor and urocortin I activate CREB through functionally selective Gβγ signaling in hippocampal pyramidal neurons. Eur J Neurosci 2011; 34:671-81. [PMID: 21819464 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2011.07812.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Stress is a perceived perturbation in the environment of the organism that affects numerous extrahypothalamic brain regions including the hippocampus, a limbic structure critical for learning, spatial memory and the regulation of stress hormones. Though many effects of stress on the hippocampus are mediated via local glucocorticoid action, there is now ample evidence for the contributions of the stress peptides corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and urocortin I (UCN). Thus, understanding the intracellular signaling pathways activated by stress peptides is required to fully understand the mechanisms by which stress influences the hippocampus. Here we elucidate molecular mechanisms by which CRF and UCN induce phosphorylation of the activity-dependent transcription factor CREB, a molecule critical for numerous forms of neuronal plasticity. We report that nanomolar concentrations of both CRF and UCN lead to a rapid, CRF receptor 1 (CRFR1)- and Gβγ-dependent increase in CREB phosphorylation in rat hippocampal pyramidal neurons. Interestingly, CRF- and UCN-induced signaling pathways diverge downstream of Gβγ, with UCN, but not CRF, signaling to CREB via a MEK/MAPK-dependent pathway. These data suggest novel molecular mechanisms by which stress can directly impact hippocampal neurons, as well as highlight an emerging role for Gβγ signaling in mediating the effects of stress peptides in extrahypothalamic stress-responsive brain regions.
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36
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Progesterone blocks multiple routes of ion flux. Mol Cell Neurosci 2011; 48:137-41. [PMID: 21782024 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2011.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2011] [Revised: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 07/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The administration of progesterone as a neuroprotective agent following traumatic brain injury has recently entered phase III clinical trials. Previous work has demonstrated that therapeutic concentrations of progesterone decrease excitotoxicity through direct inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels, an action independent of the nuclear progesterone receptor. Here we report using cultured rat striatal neurons that these same concentrations of progesterone also block voltage-gated potassium channels, sodium channels and GABA(A) currents. The actions of progesterone act at the surface membrane of neurons in a steroid specific, voltage-independent, concentration-dependent manner. Notably, these broad actions of progesterone on ion channel and neurotransmitter receptor function mirror those of dihydropyridines, and indicate potential shared mechanisms of action, the prospective of additional therapeutic applications, and possibly, untoward effects.
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