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Du Y, An Y, Song Y, Li N, Zheng J, Lu Y. Live and pasteurized Akkermansia muciniphila ameliorates diabetic cognitive impairment by modulating gut microbiota and metabolites in db/db mice. Exp Neurol 2024; 378:114823. [PMID: 38782351 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The established role of disturbances in the microbiota-gut-brain axis in the development of diabetic cognitive impairment (DCI) has long been recognized. It has shown the potential of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) in improving metabolic disorders and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the specific effects and mechanisms underlying the treatment of DCI with A. muciniphila. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of A. muciniphila in alleviating DCI in db/db mice. Eleven-week-old db/db mice were administered either live or pasteurized A. muciniphila (5 × 109 CFU/200 μL) for a duration of eight weeks. Administering live A. muciniphila significantly ameliorated cognitive impairments, improved the synaptic ultrastructure, and inhibited hippocampal neuron loss in the CA1 and CA3 subregions in db/db mice. Both live and pasteurized A. muciniphila effectively mitigated neuroinflammation. Moreover, live A. muciniphila increased the relative abundance of Lactococcus and Staphylococcus, whereas pasteurized A. muciniphila increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Prevotellaceae_UCG_001, and Alistipes. Supplementation of A. muciniphila also induced alterations in serum and brain metabolites, with a particular enrichment observed in tryptophan metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, and pentose and glucuronate interconversions. Correlation analysis further demonstrated a direct and substantial correlation between the altered gut microbiota and the metabolites in the serum and brain tissue. In conclusion, the results indicate that live A. muciniphila demonstrated greater efficacy compared to pasteurized A. muciniphila. The observed protective effects of A. muciniphila against DCI are likely mediated through the neuroinflammation and microbiota-metabolites-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yage Du
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yu An
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Ying Song
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Nan Li
- Institute of Reproductive and Child Health, Peking University/ Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yanhui Lu
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
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Lai W, Huang S, Liu J, Zhou B, Yu Z, Brown J, Hong G. Toll-like receptor 4-dependent innate immune responses are mediated by intracrine corticosteroids and activation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β in astrocytes. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23781. [PMID: 38941212 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301923rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Reactive astrocytes are important pathophysiologically and synthesize neurosteroids. We observed that LPS increased immunoreactive TLR4 and key steroidogenic enzymes in cortical astrocytes of rats and investigated whether corticosteroids are produced and mediate astrocytic TLR4-dependent innate immune responses. We found that LPS increased steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and StAR-dependent aldosterone production in purified astrocytes. Both increases were blocked by the TLR4 antagonist TAK242. LPS also increased 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) and corticosterone production, and both were prevented by TAK242 and by siRNAs against 11β-HSD1, StAR, or aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2). Knockdown of 11β-HSD1, StAR, or CYP11B2 or blocking either mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) or glucocorticoid receptors (GR) prevented dephosphorylation of p-Ser9GSK-3β, activation of NF-κB, and the GSK-3β-dependent increases of C3, IL-1β, and TNF-α caused by LPS. Exogenous aldosterone mimicked the MR- and GSK-3β-dependent pro-inflammatory effects of LPS in astrocytes, but corticosterone did not. Supernatants from astrocytes treated with LPS reduced MAP2 and viability of cultured neurons except when astrocytic StAR or MR was inhibited. In adrenalectomized rats, intracerebroventricular injection of LPS increased astrocytic TLR4, StAR, CYP11B2, and 11β-HSD1, NF-κB, C3 and IL-1β, decreased astrocytic p-Ser9GSK-3β in the cortex and was neurotoxic, except when spironolactone was co-injected, consistent with the in vitro results. LPS also activated NF-κB in some NeuN+ and CD11b+ cells in the cortex, and these effects were prevented by spironolactone. We conclude that intracrine aldosterone may be involved in the TLR4-dependent innate immune responses of astrocytes and can trigger paracrine effects by activating astrocytic MR/GSK-3β/NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfang Lai
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Siying Huang
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Binbin Zhou
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhengshuang Yu
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - John Brown
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guizhu Hong
- College of Pharmacology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Minhou Shangjie, Fuzhou, China
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Żulińska S, Strosznajder AK, Strosznajder JB. Current View on PPAR-α and Its Relation to Neurosteroids in Alzheimer's Disease and Other Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Promising Targets in a Therapeutic Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7106. [PMID: 39000217 PMCID: PMC11241121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) may play an important role in the pathomechanism/pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and several other neurological/neuropsychiatric disorders. AD leads to progressive alterations in the redox state, ion homeostasis, lipids, and protein metabolism. Significant alterations in molecular processes and the functioning of several signaling pathways result in the degeneration and death of synapses and neuronal cells, leading to the most severe dementia. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) is among the processes affected by AD; it regulates the transcription of genes related to the metabolism of cholesterol, fatty acids, other lipids and neurotransmission, mitochondria biogenesis, and function. PPAR-α is involved in the cholesterol transport to mitochondria, the substrate for neurosteroid biosynthesis. PPAR-α-coding enzymes, such as sulfotransferases, which are responsible for neurosteroid sulfation. The relation between PPAR-α and cholesterol/neurosteroids may have a significant impact on the course and progression of neurodegeneration/neuroprotection processes. Unfortunately, despite many years of intensive studies, the pathogenesis of AD is unknown and therapy for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases is symptomatic, presenting a significant goal and challenge today. This review presents recent achievements in therapeutic approaches for AD, which are targeting PPAR-α and its relation to cholesterol and neurosteroids in AD and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Żulińska
- Department of Cellular Signaling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Anna K. Strosznajder
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Nowowiejska St. 27, 00-665 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Joanna B. Strosznajder
- Department of Cellular Signaling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 5 Pawińskiego St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland;
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Bäckström T, Doverskog M, Blackburn TP, Scharschmidt BF, Felipo V. Allopregnanolone and its antagonist modulate neuroinflammation and neurological impairment. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 161:105668. [PMID: 38608826 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation accompanies several brain disorders, either as a secondary consequence or as a primary cause and may contribute importantly to disease pathogenesis. Neurosteroids which act as Positive Steroid Allosteric GABA-A receptor Modulators (Steroid-PAM) appear to modulate neuroinflammation and their levels in the brain may vary because of increased or decreased local production or import from the systemic circulation. The increased synthesis of steroid-PAMs is possibly due to increased expression of the mitochondrial cholesterol transporting protein (TSPO) in neuroinflammatory tissue, and reduced production may be due to changes in the enzymatic activity. Microglia and astrocytes play an important role in neuroinflammation, and their production of inflammatory mediators can be both activated and inhibited by steroid-PAMs and GABA. What is surprising is the finding that both allopregnanolone, a steroid-PAM, and golexanolone, a novel GABA-A receptor modulating steroid antagonist (GAMSA), can inhibit microglia and astrocyte activation and normalize their function. This review focuses on the role of steroid-PAMs in neuroinflammation and their importance in new therapeutic approaches to CNS and liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Vicente Felipo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
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Caldarelli M, Rio P, Marrone A, Ocarino F, Chiantore M, Candelli M, Gasbarrini A, Gambassi G, Cianci R. Gut-Brain Axis: Focus on Sex Differences in Neuroinflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5377. [PMID: 38791415 PMCID: PMC11120930 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the concept of the "gut-brain axis". In addition to well-studied diseases associated with an imbalance in gut microbiota, such as cancer, chronic inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases, research is now exploring the potential role of gut microbial dysbiosis in the onset and development of brain-related diseases. When the function of the intestinal barrier is altered by dysbiosis, the aberrant immune system response interacts with the nervous system, leading to a state of "neuroinflammation". The gut microbiota-brain axis is mediated by inflammatory and immunological mechanisms, neurotransmitters, and neuroendocrine pathways. This narrative review aims to illustrate the molecular basis of neuroinflammation and elaborate on the concept of the gut-brain axis by virtue of analyzing the various metabolites produced by the gut microbiome and how they might impact the nervous system. Additionally, the current review will highlight how sex influences these molecular mechanisms. In fact, sex hormones impact the brain-gut microbiota axis at different levels, such as the central nervous system, the enteric nervous one, and enteroendocrine cells. A deeper understanding of the gut-brain axis in human health and disease is crucial to guide diagnoses, treatments, and preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Caldarelli
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Rio
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Marrone
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Ocarino
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Chiantore
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Candelli
- Department of Emergency, Anesthesiological and Reanimation Sciences, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Gambassi
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Cianci
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of Rome, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
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Wang M, Hu S, Fu X, Zhou H, Yang S, Yang C. Neurosteroids: A potential target for neuropsychiatric disorders. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 239:106485. [PMID: 38369032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2024.106485] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Neurosteroids are steroids produced by endocrine glands and subsequently entering the brain, and also include steroids synthesis in the brain. It has been widely known that neurosteroids influence many neurological functions, including neuronal signaling, synaptic adaptations, and neuroprotective effects. In addition, abnormality in the synthesis and function of neurosteroids has been closely linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), schizophrenia (SZ), and epilepsy. Given their important role in brain pathophysiology and disorders, neurosteroids offer potential therapeutic targets for a variety of neuropsychiatric diseases, and that therapeutic strategies targeting neurosteroids probably exert beneficial effects. We therefore summarized the role of neurosteroids in brain physiology and neuropsychiatric disorders, and introduced the recent findings of synthetic neurosteroid analogues for potential treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, thereby providing insights for further research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Suwan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xinghuo Fu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Huixuan Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Siqi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Chun Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
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Balan I, Boero G, Chéry SL, McFarland MH, Lopez AG, Morrow AL. Neuroactive Steroids, Toll-like Receptors, and Neuroimmune Regulation: Insights into Their Impact on Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:582. [PMID: 38792602 PMCID: PMC11122352 DOI: 10.3390/life14050582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnane neuroactive steroids, notably allopregnanolone and pregnenolone, exhibit efficacy in mitigating inflammatory signals triggered by toll-like receptor (TLR) activation, thus attenuating the production of inflammatory factors. Clinical studies highlight their therapeutic potential, particularly in conditions like postpartum depression (PPD), where the FDA-approved compound brexanolone, an intravenous formulation of allopregnanolone, effectively suppresses TLR-mediated inflammatory pathways, predicting symptom improvement. Additionally, pregnane neurosteroids exhibit trophic and anti-inflammatory properties, stimulating the production of vital trophic proteins and anti-inflammatory factors. Androstane neuroactive steroids, including estrogens and androgens, along with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), display diverse effects on TLR expression and activation. Notably, androstenediol (ADIOL), an androstane neurosteroid, emerges as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, promising for therapeutic interventions. The dysregulation of immune responses via TLR signaling alongside reduced levels of endogenous neurosteroids significantly contributes to symptom severity across various neuropsychiatric disorders. Neuroactive steroids, such as allopregnanolone, demonstrate efficacy in alleviating symptoms of various neuropsychiatric disorders and modulating neuroimmune responses, offering potential intervention avenues. This review emphasizes the significant therapeutic potential of neuroactive steroids in modulating TLR signaling pathways, particularly in addressing inflammatory processes associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. It advances our understanding of the complex interplay between neuroactive steroids and immune responses, paving the way for personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual needs and providing insights for future research aimed at unraveling the intricacies of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Balan
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Giorgia Boero
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Samantha Lucenell Chéry
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Neuroscience Curriculum, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Minna H. McFarland
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Neuroscience Curriculum, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Alejandro G. Lopez
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - A. Leslie Morrow
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (I.B.); (S.L.C.); (M.H.M.); (A.G.L.)
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Fang C, Shen Y, Ma Z, Li Y, Zhang J, Liu C, Ye Y. l-Theanine Prevents Colonic Damage via NF-κB/MAPK Signaling Pathways Induced by a High-Fat Diet in Rats. Mol Nutr Food Res 2024; 68:e2300797. [PMID: 38549456 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202300797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
SCOPE l-Theanine (l-Thea) is an amino acid which is naturally present in tea leaves. It has been associated with possible health advantages, including obesity prevention, but the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been elucidated. METHODS AND RESULTS A multiomics approach is utilized to examine the mechanism by which l-Thea exerts its antiobesity effects. This study reveals that l-Thea administration significantly ameliorates high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in rats by improving body weight and hyperlipidemia. l-Thea mitigates HFD-induced inflammation and reverses hepatic and colonic damage, and intestinal barrier. This research verifies that the preventive effect of l-Thea on obesity in rats induced by an HFD with colitis is accomplished by suppressing the phosphorylation of important proteins in the NF-κB/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Metabolome analysis reveals that l-Thea regulates HFD-induced metabolic disorders, specifically through modulation of steroid hormone biosynthesis. Microbiome analysis reveals that l-Thea mitigates HFD-induced dysbiosis by increasing the relative abundance of obesity-associated probiotic bacteria, including Blautia coccoides and Lactobacillus murinus, while simultaneously suppressing the abundance of pathogenic bacteria. CONCLUSIONS l-Thea alleviates colitis generated by an HFD by restoring the integrity of the intestinal barrier, suppressing inflammation through regulation of MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways, and enhancing microbial metabolism in colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Fang
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology Research, Tea Research Institute, Tea Refining and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 610066, PR China
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Yifeng Shen
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Ziyang Ma
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Yuchen Li
- College of Horticulture, Tea Refining and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, PR China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Chen Liu
- College of Horticulture, Tea Refining and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, PR China
| | - Yulong Ye
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology Research, Tea Research Institute, Tea Refining and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, 610066, PR China
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Esperante IJ, Meyer M, Banzan C, Kruse MS, Lima A, Roig P, Guennoun R, Schumacher M, De Nicola AF, Gonzalez Deniselle MC. Testosterone Reduces Myelin Abnormalities in the Wobbler Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:428. [PMID: 38672445 PMCID: PMC11048492 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motoneuron degenerative disease that is associated with demyelination. The Wobbler (WR) mouse exhibits motoneuron degeneration, gliosis and myelin deterioration in the cervical spinal cord. Since male WRs display low testosterone (T) levels in the nervous system, we investigated if T modified myelin-relative parameters in WRs in the absence or presence of the aromatase inhibitor, anastrozole (A). We studied myelin by using luxol-fast-blue (LFB) staining, semithin sections, electron microscopy and myelin protein expression, density of IBA1+ microglia and mRNA expression of inflammatory factors, and the glutamatergic parameters glutamine synthetase (GS) and the transporter GLT1. Controls and WR + T showed higher LFB, MBP and PLP staining, lower g-ratios and compact myelin than WRs and WR + T + A, and groups showing the rupture of myelin lamellae. WRs showed increased IBA1+ cells and mRNA for CD11b and inflammatory factors (IL-18, TLR4, TNFαR1 and P2Y12R) vs. controls or WR + T. IBA1+ cells, and CD11b were not reduced in WR + T + A, but inflammatory factors' mRNA remained low. A reduction of GS+ cells and GLT-1 immunoreactivity was observed in WRs and WR + T + A vs. controls and WR + T. Clinically, WR + T but not WR + T + A showed enhanced muscle mass, grip strength and reduced paw abnormalities. Therefore, T effects involve myelin protection, a finding of potential clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan J. Esperante
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina; (I.J.E.); (M.M.); (C.B.); (A.F.D.N.)
| | - Maria Meyer
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina; (I.J.E.); (M.M.); (C.B.); (A.F.D.N.)
| | - Carolina Banzan
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina; (I.J.E.); (M.M.); (C.B.); (A.F.D.N.)
| | - Maria Sol Kruse
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina;
| | - Analia Lima
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina; (I.J.E.); (M.M.); (C.B.); (A.F.D.N.)
| | - Paulina Roig
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina; (I.J.E.); (M.M.); (C.B.); (A.F.D.N.)
| | - Rachida Guennoun
- U1195 INSERM and University Paris Sud: “Neuroprotective, Neuroregenerative and Remyelinating Small Molecules”, 94276 Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; (R.G.); (M.S.)
| | - Michael Schumacher
- U1195 INSERM and University Paris Sud: “Neuroprotective, Neuroregenerative and Remyelinating Small Molecules”, 94276 Kremlin-Bicêtre, France; (R.G.); (M.S.)
| | - Alejandro F. De Nicola
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina; (I.J.E.); (M.M.); (C.B.); (A.F.D.N.)
- Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires 1121, Argentina
| | - Maria Claudia Gonzalez Deniselle
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Buenos Aires 1428, Argentina; (I.J.E.); (M.M.); (C.B.); (A.F.D.N.)
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, UA1, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires 1121, Argentina
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Ravel-Godreuil C, Roy ER, Puttapaka SN, Li S, Wang Y, Yuan X, Eltzschig HK, Cao W. Transcriptional Responses of Different Brain Cell Types to Oxygen Decline. Brain Sci 2024; 14:341. [PMID: 38671993 PMCID: PMC11048388 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14040341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain hypoxia is associated with a wide range of physiological and clinical conditions. Although oxygen is an essential constituent of maintaining brain functions, our understanding of how specific brain cell types globally respond and adapt to decreasing oxygen conditions is incomplete. In this study, we exposed mouse primary neurons, astrocytes, and microglia to normoxia and two hypoxic conditions and obtained genome-wide transcriptional profiles of the treated cells. Analysis of differentially expressed genes under conditions of reduced oxygen revealed a canonical hypoxic response shared among different brain cell types. In addition, we observed a higher sensitivity of neurons to oxygen decline, and dissected cell type-specific biological processes affected by hypoxia. Importantly, this study establishes novel gene modules associated with brain cells responding to oxygen deprivation and reveals a state of profound stress incurred by hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Ravel-Godreuil
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
| | - Ethan R. Roy
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
| | - Srinivas N. Puttapaka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sanming Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
| | - Yanyu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
| | - Xiaoyi Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
| | - Holger K. Eltzschig
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.R.-G.); (E.R.R.); (S.N.P.); (S.L.); (Y.W.); (X.Y.); (H.K.E.)
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11
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Gol M, Costa AM, Biagini G, Lucchi C. Seizure progression is slowed by enhancing neurosteroid availability in the brain of epileptic rats. Epilepsia 2024; 65:e41-e46. [PMID: 38243753 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Trilostane is a 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5-4 isomerase inhibitor able to produce a manyfold increase in brain levels of various neurosteroids, including allopregnanolone. We previously found that treatment with trilostane can slow down epileptogenesis in the kainic acid (KA) model of temporal lobe epilepsy. It is unknown whether trilostane may have a similar effect on the progression of epilepsy severity, as observed in KA-treated rats. Consequently, we investigated the effects of trilostane (50 mg/kg/day, 1 week) in epileptic rats, given 64 days after KA administration. Seizures were monitored by video-electrocorticographic recordings before and during the treatment with trilostane or vehicle (sesame oil), and neurosteroid levels were measured in serum and cerebral tissue using liquid chromatography-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry after treatment. Pregnenolone sulfate, pregnenolone, progesterone, 5α-dihydroprogesterone, and allopregnanolone peripheral levels were massively increased by trilostane. With the only exception of hippocampal pregnenolone sulfate, the other neurosteroids augmented in both the neocortex and hippocampus. Only pregnanolone levels were not upregulated by trilostane. As expected, a significant increase in the seizure occurrence was observed in rats receiving the vehicle, but not in the trilostane group. This suggests that the increased availability of neurosteroids produced a disease-modifying effect in the brain of epileptic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Gol
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Costa
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Biagini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Lucchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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12
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Cui J, Zhao D, Xu M, Li Z, Qian J, Song N, Wang J, Xie J. Characterization of graded 6-Hydroxydopamine unilateral lesion in medial forebrain bundle of mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3721. [PMID: 38355892 PMCID: PMC10866897 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54066-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disease, with a progressive loss of dopaminergic cells and fibers. The purpose of this study was to use different doses of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) injection into the medial forebrain bundle (MFB) of mice to mimic the different stages of the disease and to characterize in detail their motor and non-motor behavior, as well as neuropathological features in the nigrostriatal pathway. MFB were injected with 0.5 μg, 1 μg, 2 μg of 6-OHDA using a brain stereotaxic technique. 6-OHDA induced mitochondrial damage dose-dependently, as well as substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) tyrosine hydroxylase-positive (TH+) cell loss and striatal TH fiber loss. Activation of astrocytes and microglia in the SNpc and striatum were consistently observed at 7 weeks, suggesting a long-term glial response in the nigrostriatal system. Even with a partial or complete denervation of the nigrostriatal pathway, 6-OHDA did not cause anxiety, although depression-like behavior appeared. Certain gait disturbances were observed in 0.5 μg 6-OHDA lesioned mice, and more extensive in 1 μg group. Despite the loss of more neurons from 2 μg 6-OHDA, there was no further impairment in behaviors compared to 1 μg 6-OHDA. Our data have implications that 1 μg 6-OHDA was necessary and sufficient to induce motor and non-motor symptoms in mice, thus a valuable mouse tool to explore disease progression and new treatment in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntao Cui
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Di Zhao
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Manman Xu
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Zheheng Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Junliang Qian
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Ning Song
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
| | - Jun Wang
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
| | - Junxia Xie
- Institute of Brain Science and Disease, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Prevention of Neurological Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
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13
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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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14
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Ozcan E, Akduman RC, Eyupoglu S, Bingol A, Balci Ekmekci O, Hatipoglu E. 5 -Alpha-dihydroxyprogesterone may contribute to perceptual processing and attention of the cases with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. Neurol Res 2024; 46:132-138. [PMID: 37733038 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2023.2258040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Neurosteroids (NSs) are endogenous steroid hormones, which are synthesised and metabolised within the central nervous system (CNS). NSs aid myelination and glial differentiation and modulate cognitive functions. Herein, we aim to investigate the relationship between NS levels, 5-alpha-dihydroxyprogesterone (5-α-DHP) and allopregnanolone (ALPG), and their relationship with cognitive changes in relapsing remitting MS patients.A total of 43 cases with well controlled, relapsing remitting MS composed the study group. The control group included 21 age and gender matched healthy controls (HC). MS patients were assessed by calculating Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, and the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests (BRBNT) was performed in both MS group and HC. Levels of 5-α-DHP and ALPG levels were also evaluated for each participant.The median level of 5-α-DHP was 48 [IQR: 39.2-144.2] pg/mcgL in the MS group and 68.4 [IQR: 57.1-365.9] pg/mcgL in HC (p = 0.02). The median ALPG level was found to be 56.5 [IQR: 37.7-75.4] pg/mcgL in the MS group and 43.9 [IQR: 29.4-70.2] pg/mcgL in HC (p = 0.1). In both groups 5-α-DHP levels were positively correlated with Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) scores (HC: p = 0.01, r = 0.3 and MS: p = 0.03, r = 0.3). In the MS group, higher EDSS scores were associated with lower scores on Spatial Recall Test (SPART)-Delayed (p = 0.009, r= -0.4) and SDMT (p = 0.01, r= -0.4). The disease duration was negatively correlated with the scores on SPART-Immediate, SPART-Delayed and SDMT (p = 0.02, r= -0.4; p = 0.005, r= -0.4 and p = 0.05, r= -0.3).5-α-DHP may be lower even in well-controlled cases. 5-α-DHP may contribute to better perceptual processing and attention in cases with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emin Ozcan
- Department of Neurology, Yeditepe University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Sevim Eyupoglu
- Department of Psychology, Davranis Degisim Akademisi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayhan Bingol
- Department of Psychology, Davranis Degisim Akademisi, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Balci Ekmekci
- Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Hatipoglu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Basaksehir Cam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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15
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Bourque M, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Neuroactive steroids and Parkinson's disease: Review of human and animal studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 156:105479. [PMID: 38007170 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
The greater prevalence and incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD) in men suggest a beneficial effect of sex hormones. Neuroactive steroids have neuroprotective activities thus offering interesting option for disease-modifying therapy for PD. Neuroactive steroids are also neuromodulators of neurotransmitter systems and may thus help to control PD symptoms and side effect of dopamine medication. Here, we review the effect on sex hormones (estrogen, androgen, progesterone and its metabolites) as well as androstenediol, pregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone) in human studies and in animal models of PD. The effect of neuroactive steroids is reviewed by considering sex and hormonal status to help identify specifically for women and men with PD what might be a preventive approach or a symptomatic treatment. PD is a complex disease and the pathogenesis likely involves multiple cellular processes. Thus it might be useful to target different cellular mechanisms that contribute to neuronal loss and neuroactive steroids provide therapeutics options as they have multiple mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Marc Morissette
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec G1V4G2, Canada; Faculté de pharmacie, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, 1050, avenue de la Médecine, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada.
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16
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Qin L, Kamash P, Yang Y, Ding Y, Ren C. A narrative review of potential neural repair poststroke: Decoction of Chinese angelica and peony in regulating microglia polarization through the neurosteroid pathway. Brain Circ 2024; 10:5-10. [PMID: 38655444 PMCID: PMC11034443 DOI: 10.4103/bc.bc_45_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a major global health crisis, characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates. Although there have been significant advancements in treating the acute phase of this condition, there remains a pressing need for effective treatments that can facilitate the recovery of neurological functions. Danggui-Shaoyao-San (DSS), also known as the Decoction of Chinese Angelica and Peony, is a traditional Chinese herbal formula. It has demonstrated promising results in the regulation of microglial polarization and modulation of neurosteroid receptor expression, which may make it a potent strategy for promoting the recovery of neurological functions. Microglia, which plays a crucial role in neuroplasticity and functional reconstruction poststroke, is regulated by neurosteroids. This review posits that DSS could facilitate the recovery of neuronal function poststroke by influencing microglial polarization through the neurosteroid receptor pathway. We will further discuss the potential mechanisms by which DSS could enhance neural function in stroke, including the regulation of microglial activation, neurosteroid regulation, and other potential mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linhui Qin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxia Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peter Kamash
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Yong Yang
- Department of Herbal Formula Science, Chinese Medicine College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchuan Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Changhong Ren
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxia Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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17
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Chiem E, Zhao K, Stark G, Ghiani CA, Colwell CS, Paul KN. Sex differences in sleep architecture in a mouse model of Huntington's disease. J Neurosci Res 2024; 102:e25290. [PMID: 38284849 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances are common features of Huntington's disease (HD). HD is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder that affects men and women in equal numbers, but some epidemiological studies as well as preclinical work indicate there may be sex differences in disease presentation and progression. Since sex differences in HD could provide important insights to understand cellular and molecular mechanism(s), we used the bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic mouse model of HD (BACHD) to examine whether sex differences in sleep/wake cycles are detectable in an animal model of the disease. Electroencephalography/electromyography (EEG/EMG) was used to measure sleep/wake states and polysomnographic patterns in young adult (12-week-old) male and female wild-type and BACHD mice. Our findings show that male, but not female, BACHD mice exhibited increased variation in phases of the rhythms as compared to age- and sex-matched wild-types. For both rapid-eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, genotypic and sex differences were detected. In particular, the BACHD males spent less time in NREM sleep and exhibited a more fragmented sleep than the other groups. Finally, in response to 6 h of sleep deprivation, both genotypes and sexes displayed the predicted homeostatic responses to sleep loss. These findings suggest that females are relatively protected early in disease progression in this HD model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Chiem
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, Integrative Physiology Program, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kevin Zhao
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Gemma Stark
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cristina A Ghiani
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Christopher S Colwell
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ketema N Paul
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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18
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Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Cioffi L, Cosimo Melcangi R. Post-Finasteride Syndrome And Post-Ssri Sexual Dysfunction: Two Clinical Conditions Apparently Distant, But Very Close. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101114. [PMID: 37993021 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101114] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Post-finasteride syndrome and post-SSRI sexual dysfunction, are two poorly explored clinical conditions in which men treated for androgenetic alopecia with finasteride or for depression with SSRI antidepressants show persistent side effects despite drug suspension (e.g., sexual dysfunction, psychological complaints, sleep disorders). Because of some similarities in the symptoms, common pathological mechanisms are proposed here. Indeed, as discussed, clinical studies and preclinical data obtained so far suggest an important role for brain modulators (i.e., neuroactive steroids), neurotransmitters (i.e., serotonin, and cathecolamines), and gut microbiota in the context of the gut-brain axis. In particular, the observed interconnections of these signals in these two clinical conditions may suggest similar etiopathogenetic mechanisms, such as the involvement of the enzyme converting norepinephrine into epinephrine (i.e., phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase). However, despite the current efforts, more work is still needed to advance the understanding of these clinical conditions in terms of diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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19
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Fernando MB, Fan Y, Zhang Y, Kammourh S, Murphy AN, Ghorbani S, Onatzevitch R, Pero A, Padilla C, Flaherty EK, Prytkova IK, Cao L, Williams S, Fang G, Slesinger PA, Brennand KJ. Precise Therapeutic Targeting of Distinct NRXN1+/- Mutations. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.28.564543. [PMID: 37961635 PMCID: PMC10634884 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.28.564543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
As genetic studies continue to identify risk loci that are significantly associated with risk for neuropsychiatric disease, a critical unanswered question is the extent to which diverse mutations--sometimes impacting the same gene-- will require tailored therapeutic strategies. Here we consider this in the context of rare neuropsychiatric disorder-associated copy number variants (2p16.3) resulting in heterozygous deletions in NRXN1, a pre-synaptic cell adhesion protein that serves as a critical synaptic organizer in the brain. Complex patterns of NRXN1 alternative splicing are fundamental to establishing diverse neurocircuitry, vary between the cell types of the brain, and are differentially impacted by unique (non-recurrent) deletions. We contrast the cell-type-specific impact of patient-specific mutations in NRXN1 using human induced pluripotent stem cells, finding that perturbations in NRXN1 splicing result in divergent cell-type-specific synaptic outcomes. Via distinct loss-of-function (LOF) and gain-of-function (GOF) mechanisms, NRXN1+/- deletions cause decreased synaptic activity in glutamatergic neurons, yet increased synaptic activity in GABAergic neurons. Stratification of patients by LOF and GOF mechanisms will facilitate individualized restoration of NRXN1 isoform repertoires; towards this, antisense oligonucleotides knockdown mutant isoform expression and alters synaptic transcriptional signatures, while treatment with β-estradiol rescues synaptic function in glutamatergic neurons. Given the increasing number of mutations predicted to engender both LOF and GOF mechanisms in brain disease, our findings add nuance to future considerations of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B. Fernando
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Friedman Brain Institute, Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520
| | - Yu Fan
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Yanchun Zhang
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Sarah Kammourh
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Aleta N. Murphy
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Friedman Brain Institute, Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Sadaf Ghorbani
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520
- Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ryan Onatzevitch
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Adriana Pero
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Christopher Padilla
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Erin K. Flaherty
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Iya K. Prytkova
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Lei Cao
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Sarah Williams
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Friedman Brain Institute, Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Gang Fang
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Paul A. Slesinger
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
| | - Kristen J. Brennand
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Friedman Brain Institute, Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Pamela Sklar Division of Psychiatric Genomics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520
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Balan I, Grusca A, O’Buckley TK, Morrow AL. Neurosteroid [3α,5α]-3-hydroxy-pregnan-20-one enhances IL-10 production via endosomal TRIF-dependent TLR4 signaling pathway. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1299420. [PMID: 38179300 PMCID: PMC10765172 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1299420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies demonstrated the inhibitory effect of allopregnanolone (3α,5α-THP) on the activation of inflammatory toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signals in RAW264.7 macrophages and the brains of selectively bred alcohol-preferring (P) rats. In the current study, we investigated the impact of 3α,5α-THP on the levels of IL-10 and activation of the TRIF-dependent endosomal TLR4 pathway. Methods The amygdala and nucleus accumbens (NAc) of P rats, which exhibit innately activated TLR4 pathways as well as RAW264.7 cells, were used. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and immunoblotting assays were used to ascertain the effects of 3α,5α-THP on the TRIF-dependent endosomal TLR4 pathway and endosomes were isolated to examine translocation of TLR4 and TRIF. Additionally, we investigated the effects of 3α,5α-THP and 3α,5α-THDOC (0.1, 0.3, and 1.0 µM) on the levels of IL-10 in RAW264.7 macrophages. Finally, we examined whether inhibiting TRIF (using TRIF siRNA) in RAW264.7 cells altered the levels of IL-10. Results 3α,5α-THP administration facilitated activation of the endosomal TRIF-dependent TLR4 pathway in males, but not female P rats. 3α,5α-THP increased IL-10 levels (+13.2 ± 6.5%) and BDNF levels (+21.1 ± 11.5%) in the male amygdala. These effects were associated with increases in pTRAM (+86.4 ± 28.4%), SP1 (+122.2 ± 74.9%), and PI(3)K-p110δ (+61.6 ± 21.6%), and a reduction of TIRAP (-13.7 ± 6.0%), indicating the activation of the endosomal TRIF-dependent TLR4 signaling pathway. Comparable effects were observed in NAc of these animals. Furthermore, 3α,5α-THP enhanced the accumulation of TLR4 (+43.9 ± 11.3%) and TRIF (+64.8 ± 32.8%) in endosomes, with no significant effect on TLR3 accumulation. Additionally, 3α,5α-THP facilitated the transition from early endosomes to late endosomes (increasing Rab7 levels: +35.8 ± 18.4%). In RAW264.7 cells, imiquimod (30 µg/mL) reduced IL-10 while 3α,5α-THP and 3α,5α-THDOC (0.1, 0.3, and 1.0 µM) restored IL-10 levels. To determine the role of the TRIF-dependent TLR4 signaling pathway in IL-10 production, the downregulation of TRIF (-62.9 ± 28.2%) in RAW264.7 cells led to a reduction in IL-10 levels (-42.3 ± 8.4%). TRIF (-62.9 ± 28.2%) in RAW264.7 cells led to a reduction in IL-10 levels (-42.3 ± 8.4%) and 3α,5α-THP (1.0 µM) no longer restored the reduced IL-10 levels. Conclusion The results demonstrate 3α,5α-THP enhancement of the endosomal TLR4-TRIF anti-inflammatory signals and elevations of IL-10 in male P rat brain that were not detected in female P rat brain. These effects hold significant implications for controlling inflammatory responses in both the brain and peripheral immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Balan
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Adelina Grusca
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Todd K. O’Buckley
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - A. Leslie Morrow
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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21
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Marecki R, Kałuska J, Kolanek A, Hakało D, Waszkiewicz N. Zuranolone - synthetic neurosteroid in treatment of mental disorders: narrative review. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1298359. [PMID: 38116383 PMCID: PMC10729607 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1298359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
With each passing year, the number of people suffering from mental disorders grows at a disturbing speed. Neuroactive steroids are a new promising group of drugs with the potential for use in many diseases like postpartum depression, postnatal psychosis, major depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and Parkinson's tremor, due to their ability to modulate the activity of GABAA receptor. Neurosteroids are progesterone metabolites that are synthesized from cholesterol or steroid hormones in various brain regions. They regulate neuronal development, regeneration, and neurotransmission. They are implicated in mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, and impulsive aggression. Neurosteroids have been studied for their potential to prevent or treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and HIV-associated dementia. They can promote neurogenesis, neuronal survival, myelination, and memory function. They can also affect the growth and sensitivity of hormone-dependent brain tumors such as gliomas. Zuranolone, a newly registered neurosteroid drug has shown huge flexibility in both clinical and ambulatory treatment thanks to its pharmacokinetic traits, especially the possibility for oral administration, unlike its predecessor Brexanolone. Zuranolone is a synthetic positive allosteric modulator of the GABAA receptor that can be taken orally. The review aims to summarize the current knowledge on zuranolone as a novel neurosteroid drug for various mental disorders, especially for postpartum mental disorders for which this drug was meant originally. It covers studies indexed in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases published since 2017. Keywords used in the search, as well as inclusion and exclusion criteria, are given in the aims and methodology section. The review explains the evidence for the role of neurosteroids, especially allopregnanolone, in the pathophysiology and treatment of postpartum depression. It discusses the mechanisms of neurosteroid action, the changes in neurosteroid levels during pregnancy and postpartum, and the clinical trials of brexanolone and zuranolone, two synthetic analogs of allopregnanolone, for postpartum depression. It provides an overview of the biosynthesis and metabolism of neurosteroids in the central and peripheral nervous system. Furthermore, it explains the different sources and pathways of neurosteroid production and the factors that influence their synthesis and regulation, such as stress, hormones, drugs, and genetic variations. The review also explores the potential relevance of neurosteroids for other psychiatric disorders, such as major depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Finally, it highlights the associations between neurosteroid levels and symptom severity and the effects of neurosteroid modulation on mood, cognition, and neuroplasticity.
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22
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Cáceres C, Heusser B, Garnham A, Moczko E. The Major Hypotheses of Alzheimer's Disease: Related Nanotechnology-Based Approaches for Its Diagnosis and Treatment. Cells 2023; 12:2669. [PMID: 38067098 PMCID: PMC10705786 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a well-known chronic neurodegenerative disorder that leads to the progressive death of brain cells, resulting in memory loss and the loss of other critical body functions. In March 2019, one of the major pharmaceutical companies and its partners announced that currently, there is no drug to cure AD, and all clinical trials of the new ones have been cancelled, leaving many people without hope. However, despite the clear message and startling reality, the research continued. Finally, in the last two years, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first-ever medications to treat Alzheimer's, aducanumab and lecanemab. Despite researchers' support of this decision, there are serious concerns about their effectiveness and safety. The validation of aducanumab by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is still pending, and lecanemab was authorized without considering data from the phase III trials. Furthermore, numerous reports suggest that patients have died when undergoing extended treatment. While there is evidence that aducanumab and lecanemab may provide some relief to those suffering from AD, their impact remains a topic of ongoing research and debate within the medical community. The fact is that even though there are considerable efforts regarding pharmacological treatment, no definitive cure for AD has been found yet. Nevertheless, it is strongly believed that modern nanotechnology holds promising solutions and effective clinical strategies for the development of diagnostic tools and treatments for AD. This review summarizes the major hallmarks of AD, its etiological mechanisms, and challenges. It explores existing diagnostic and therapeutic methods and the potential of nanotechnology-based approaches for recognizing and monitoring patients at risk of irreversible neuronal degeneration. Overall, it provides a broad overview for those interested in the evolving areas of clinical neuroscience, AD, and related nanotechnology. With further research and development, nanotechnology-based approaches may offer new solutions and hope for millions of people affected by this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ewa Moczko
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Viña del Mar 2562307, Chile; (C.C.)
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23
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Du Q, Li Q, Liao G, Li J, Ye P, Zhang Q, Gong X, Yang J, Li K. Emerging trends and focus of research on the relationship between traumatic brain injury and gut microbiota: a visualized study. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1278438. [PMID: 38029105 PMCID: PMC10654752 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1278438] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most serious types of trauma and imposes a heavy social and economic burden on healthcare systems worldwide. The development of emerging biotechnologies is uncovering the relationship between TBI and gut flora, and gut flora as a potential intervention target is of increasing interest to researchers. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of research employing bibliometric methodologies to scrutinize the interrelation between these two. Therefore, this study visualized the relationship between TBI and gut flora based on bibliometric methods to reveal research trends and hotspots in the field. The ultimate objective is to catalyze progress in the preclinical and clinical evolution of strategies for treating and managing TBI. Methods Terms related to TBI and gut microbiota were combined to search the Scopus database for relevant documents from inception to February 2023. Visual analysis was performed using CiteSpace and VOSviewer. Results From September 1972 to February 2023, 2,957 documents published from 98 countries or regions were analyzed. The number of published studies on the relationship between TBI and gut flora has risen exponentially, with the United States, China, and the United Kingdom being representative of countries publishing in related fields. Research has formed strong collaborations around highly productive authors, but there is a relative lack of international cooperation. Research in this area is mainly published in high-impact journals in the field of neurology. The "intestinal microbiota and its metabolites," "interventions," "mechanism of action" and "other diseases associated with traumatic brain injury" are the most promising and valuable research sites. Targeting the gut flora to elucidate the mechanisms for the development of the course of TBI and to develop precisely targeted interventions and clinical management of TBI comorbidities are of great significant research direction and of interest to researchers. Conclusion The findings suggest that close attention should be paid to the relationship between gut microbiota and TBI, especially the interaction, potential mechanisms, development of emerging interventions, and treatment of TBI comorbidities. Further investigation is needed to understand the causal relationship between gut flora and TBI and its specific mechanisms, especially the "brain-gut microbial axis."
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiujing Du
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qijie Li
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guangneng Liao
- Animal Experiment Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiafei Li
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peiling Ye
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaotong Gong
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiaju Yang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ka Li
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Liu Y, Yang W, Xue J, Chen J, Liu S, Zhang S, Zhang X, Gu X, Dong Y, Qiu P. Neuroinflammation: The central enabler of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115582. [PMID: 37748409 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The proportion of advanced age patients undergoing surgical procedures is on the rise owing to advancements in surgical and anesthesia technologies as well as an overall aging population. As a complication of anesthesia and surgery, older patients frequently suffer from postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), which may persist for weeks, months or even longer. POCD is a complex pathological process involving multiple pathogenic factors, and its mechanism is yet unclear. Potential theories include inflammation, deposition of pathogenic proteins, imbalance of neurotransmitters, and chronic stress. The identification, prevention, and treatment of POCD are still in the exploratory stages owing to the absence of standardized diagnostic criteria. Undoubtedly, comprehending the development of POCD remains crucial in overcoming the illness. Neuroinflammation is the leading hypothesis and a crucial component of the pathological network of POCD and may have complex interactions with other mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the possible ways in which surgery and anesthesia cause neuroinflammation and investigate the connection between neuroinflammation and the development of POCD. Understanding these mechanisms may likely ensure that future treatment options of POCD are more effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning province, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning province, China
| | - Jinqi Xue
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning province, China
| | - Juntong Chen
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 311121, Zhejiang province, China
| | - Shiqing Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Shijie Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Xi Gu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning province, China.
| | - Youjing Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Peng Qiu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China.
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25
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Zubizarreta L, Jalabert C, Silva AC, Soma KK, Quintana L. Brain and circulating steroids in an electric fish: Relevance for non-breeding aggression. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289461. [PMID: 37816021 PMCID: PMC10564164 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Steroids play a crucial role in modulating brain and behavior. While traditionally it is thought that the brain is a target of sex steroids produced in endocrine glands (e.g. gonads), the brain itself produces steroids, known as neurosteroids. Neurosteroids can be produced in regions involved in the regulation of social behaviors and may act locally to regulate social behaviors, such as reproduction and aggression. Our model species, the weakly electric fish Gymnotus omarorum, displays non-breeding aggression in both sexes. This is a valuable natural behavior to understand neuroendocrine mechanisms that differ from those underlying breeding aggression. In the non-breeding season, circulating sex steroid levels are low, which facilitates the study of neurosteroids. Here, for the first time in a teleost fish, we used liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to quantify a panel of 8 steroids in both plasma and brain to characterize steroid profiles in wild non-breeding adult males and females. We show that: 1) systemic steroid levels in the non-breeding season are similar in both sexes, although only males have detectable circulating 11-ketotestosterone, 2) brain steroid levels are sexually dimorphic, as females display higher levels of androstenedione, testosterone and estrone, and only males had detectable 11-ketotestosterone, 3) systemic androgens such as androstenedione and testosterone in the non-breeding season are potential precursors for neuroestrogen synthesis, and 4) estrogens, which play a key role in non-breeding aggression, are detectable in the brain (but not the plasma) in both sexes. These data are consistent with previous studies of G. omarorum that show non-breeding aggression is dependent on estrogen signaling, as has also been shown in bird and mammal models. Overall, our results provide a foundation for understanding the role of neurosteroids, the interplay between central and peripheral steroids and potential sex differences in the regulation of social behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Zubizarreta
- Laboratorio de Neurofisiología Celular y Sináptica, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Neurofisiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Ministerio de Educación y Cultura, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cecilia Jalabert
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ana C. Silva
- Laboratorio de Neurociencias, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Kiran K. Soma
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Laura Quintana
- Departamento de Neurofisiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Ministerio de Educación y Cultura, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Narducci D, Charou D, Rogdakis T, Zota I, Bafiti V, Zervou M, Katsila T, Gravanis A, Prousis KC, Charalampopoulos I, Calogeropoulou T. A quest for the stereo-electronic requirements for selective agonism for the neurotrophin receptors TrkA and TrkB in 17-spirocyclic-dehydroepiandrosterone derivatives. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1244133. [PMID: 37840771 PMCID: PMC10568017 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1244133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The neurotrophin system plays a pivotal role in the development, morphology, and survival of the nervous system, and its dysregulation has been manifested in numerous neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. Neurotrophins NGF and BDNF are major growth factors that prevent neuronal death and synaptic loss through binding with high affinity to their specific tropomyosin-related kinase receptors namely, TrkA and TrkB, respectively. The poor pharmacokinetic properties prohibit the use of neurotrophins as therapeutic agents. Our group has previously synthesized BNN27, a prototype small molecule based on dehydroepiandrosterone, mimicking NGF through the activation of the TrkA receptor. Methods To obtain a better understanding of the stereo-electronic requirements for selective activation of TrkA and TrkB receptors, 27 new dehydroepiandrosterone derivatives bearing a C17-spiro-dihydropyran or cyclobutyl moiety were synthesized. The new compounds were evaluated for their ability (a) to selectively activate the TrkA receptor and its downstream signaling kinases Akt and Erk1/2 in PC12 cells, protecting these cells from serum deprivation-induced cell death, and (b) to induce phosphorylation of TrkB and to promote cell survival under serum deprivation conditions in NIH3T3 cells stable transfected with the TrkB receptor and primary cortical astrocytes. In addition the metabolic stability and CYP-mediated reaction was assessed. Results Among the novel derivatives, six were able to selectively protect PC12 cells through interaction with the TrkA receptor and five more to selectively protect TrkB-expressing cells via interaction with the TrkB receptor. In particular, compound ENT-A025 strongly induces TrkA and Erk1/2 phosphorylation, comparable to NGF, and can protect PC12 cells against serum deprivation-induced cell death. Furthermore, ENT-A065, ENT-A066, ENT-A068, ENT-A069, and ENT-A070 showed promising pro-survival effects in the PC12 cell line. Concerning TrkB agonists, ENT-A009 and ENT-A055 were able to induce phosphorylation of TrkB and reduce cell death levels in NIH3T3-TrkB cells. In addition, ENT-A076, ENT-A087, and ENT-A088 possessed antiapoptotic activity in NIH-3T3-TrkB cells exclusively mediated through the TrkB receptor. The metabolic stability and CYP-mediated reaction phenotyping of the potent analogs did not reveal any major liabilities. Discussion We have identified small molecule selective agonists of TrkA and TrkB receptors as promising lead neurotrophin mimetics for the development of potential therapeutics against neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Narducci
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Charou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Thanasis Rogdakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ioanna Zota
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vivi Bafiti
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Zervou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Theodora Katsila
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Kyriakos C. Prousis
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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27
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Lin YC, Cheung G, Zhang Z, Papadopoulos V. Mitochondrial cytochrome P450 1B1 is involved in pregnenolone synthesis in human brain cells. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105035. [PMID: 37442234 PMCID: PMC10413356 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurosteroids, which are steroids synthesized by the nervous system, can exert neuromodulatory and neuroprotective effects via genomic and nongenomic pathways. The neurosteroid and major steroid precursor pregnenolone has therapeutical potential in various diseases, such as psychiatric and pain disorders, and may play important roles in myelination, neuroinflammation, neurotransmission, and neuroplasticity. Although pregnenolone is synthesized by CYP11A1 in peripheral steroidogenic organs, our recent study showed that pregnenolone must be synthesized by another mitochondrial cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme other than CYP11A1 in human glial cells. Therefore, we sought to identify the CYP450 responsible for pregnenolone production in the human brain. Upon screening for CYP450s expressed in the human brain that have mitochondrial localization, we identified three enzyme candidates: CYP27A1, CYP1A1, and CYP1B1. We found that inhibition of CYP27A1 through inhibitors and siRNA knockdown did not negatively affect pregnenolone synthesis in human glial cells. Meanwhile, treatment of human glial cells with CYP1A1/CYP1B1 inhibitors significantly reduced pregnenolone production in the presence of 22(R)-hydroxycholesterol. We performed siRNA knockdown of CYP1A1 or CYP1B1 in human glial cells and found that only CYP1B1 knockdown significantly decreased pregnenolone production. Furthermore, overexpression of mitochondria-targeted CYP1B1 significantly increased pregnenolone production under basal conditions and in the presence of hydroxycholesterols and low-density lipoprotein. Inhibition of CYP1A1 and/or CYP1B1 via inhibitors or siRNA knockdown did not significantly reduce pregnenolone synthesis in human adrenal cortical cells, implying that CYP1B1 is not a major pregnenolone-producing enzyme in the periphery. These data suggest that mitochondrial CYP1B1 is involved in pregnenolone synthesis in human glial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Christina Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Garett Cheung
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Zeyu Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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28
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Zhang WB, Huang Y, Guo XR, Zhang MQ, Yuan XS, Zu HB. DHCR24 reverses Alzheimer's disease-related pathology and cognitive impairment via increasing hippocampal cholesterol levels in 5xFAD mice. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2023; 11:102. [PMID: 37344916 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01593-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidences reveal that cellular cholesterol deficiency could trigger the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). As a key regulator, 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR24) controls cellular cholesterol homeostasis, which was found to be downregulated in AD vulnerable regions and involved in AD-related pathological activities. However, DHCR24 as a potential therapeutic target for AD remains to be identified. In present study, we demonstrated the role of DHCR24 in AD by employing delivery of adeno-associated virus carrying DHCR24 gene into the hippocampus of 5xFAD mice. Here, we found that 5xFAD mice had lower levels of cholesterol and DHCR24 expression, and the cholesterol loss was alleviated by DHCR24 overexpression. Surprisingly, the cognitive impairment of 5xFAD mice was significantly reversed after DHCR24-based gene therapy. Moreover, we revealed that DHCR24 knock-in successfully prevented or reversed AD-related pathology in 5xFAD mice, including amyloid-β deposition, synaptic injuries, autophagy, reactive astrocytosis, microglial phagocytosis and apoptosis. In conclusion, our results firstly demonstrated that the potential value of DHCR24-mediated regulation of cellular cholesterol level as a promising treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Bin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No.1508 Long-Hang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201508, China
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No.1508 Long-Hang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201508, China
| | - Xiao-Rou Guo
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No.1508 Long-Hang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201508, China
| | - Meng-Qi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No.1508 Long-Hang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201508, China
| | - Xiang-Shan Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No.1508 Long-Hang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201508, China.
- Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and Ministry of Education Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Heng-Bing Zu
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, No.1508 Long-Hang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, 201508, China.
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Allegra A, Caserta S, Genovese S, Pioggia G, Gangemi S. Gender Differences in Oxidative Stress in Relation to Cancer Susceptibility and Survival. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1255. [PMID: 37371985 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic, developmental, biochemical, and environmental variables interact intricately to produce sex differences. The significance of sex differences in cancer susceptibility is being clarified by numerous studies. Epidemiological research and cancer registries have revealed over the past few years that there are definite sex variations in cancer incidence, progression, and survival. However, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction also have a significant impact on the response to treatment of neoplastic diseases. Young women may be more protected from cancer than men because most of the proteins implicated in the regulation of redox state and mitochondrial function are under the control of sexual hormones. In this review, we describe how sexual hormones control the activity of antioxidant enzymes and mitochondria, as well as how they affect several neoplastic diseases. The molecular pathways that underlie the gender-related discrepancies in cancer that have been identified may be better understood, which may lead to more effective precision medicine and vital information on treatment options for both males and females with neoplastic illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Allegra
- Division of Hematology, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood 'Gaetano Barresi', University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Santino Caserta
- Division of Hematology, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood 'Gaetano Barresi', University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Sara Genovese
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
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30
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Terrin F, Tesoriere A, Plotegher N, Dalla Valle L. Sex and Brain: The Role of Sex Chromosomes and Hormones in Brain Development and Parkinson's Disease. Cells 2023; 12:1486. [PMID: 37296608 PMCID: PMC10252697 DOI: 10.3390/cells12111486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones and genes on the sex chromosomes are not only key factors in the regulation of sexual differentiation and reproduction but they are also deeply involved in brain homeostasis. Their action is crucial for the development of the brain, which presents different characteristics depending on the sex of individuals. The role of these players in the brain is fundamental in the maintenance of brain function during adulthood as well, thus being important also with respect to age-related neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we explore the role of biological sex in the development of the brain and analyze its impact on the predisposition toward and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, we focus on Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that has a higher incidence in the male population. We report how sex hormones and genes encoded by the sex chromosomes could protect from the disease or alternatively predispose toward its development. We finally underline the importance of considering sex when studying brain physiology and pathology in cellular and animal models in order to better understand disease etiology and develop novel tailored therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nicoletta Plotegher
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (F.T.); (A.T.)
| | - Luisa Dalla Valle
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (F.T.); (A.T.)
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31
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Angeloni E, Germelli L, Marchetti L, Da Pozzo E, Tremolanti C, Wetzel CH, Baglini E, Taliani S, Da Settimo F, Martini C, Costa B. The human microglial surveillant phenotype is preserved by de novo neurosteroidogenesis through the control of cholesterol homeostasis: Crucial role of 18 kDa Translocator Protein. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166751. [PMID: 37169037 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166751] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disease-associated microglia commonly exhibit harmful cholesterol accumulation that impairs their ability to resolve the neuroinflammatory response, contributing to disease onset and progression. Neurosteroids, whose levels have been often found significantly altered in brain diseases, are the most potent endogenous anti-inflammatory molecules exerting beneficial effects on activities of brain cells, including microglia. For the first time, the impact of neurosteroidogenesis on cholesterol homeostasis for the immune surveillance phenotype maintenance was investigated in a human microglia in vitro model. To enhance and inhibit neurosteroidogenesis, pharmacological stimulation and knock-down of 18 kDa Translocator Protein (TSPO), which is involved in the neurosteroidogenesis rate-limiting step, were used as experimental approaches, respectively. The obtained results point to an essential autocrine control of neurosteroidogenesis in orchestrating cholesterol trafficking in human microglia. TSPO pharmacological stimulation ensured cholesterol turnover by strengthening cholesterol efflux systems and preserving healthy immune surveillant phenotype. Conversely, TSPO knock-down induced an impairment of the controlled interplay among cholesterol synthesis, efflux, and metabolism mechanisms, leading to an excessive cholesterol accumulation and acquisition of a chronically activated dysfunctional phenotype. In this model, the exogenous neurosteroid administration restored proper the cholesterol clearance. The TSPO ability in promoting native neurosteroidogenesis opens the way to restore cholesterol homeostasis, and thus to maintain microglia proper functionality for the treatment of neuroinflammation-related brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Angeloni
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Germelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Laura Marchetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Da Pozzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Chiara Tremolanti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Christian H Wetzel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Molecular Neurosciences, University of Regensburg, 93059 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Emma Baglini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Sabrina Taliani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Federico Da Settimo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Claudia Martini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Barbara Costa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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32
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Chiem E, Zhao K, Stark G, Ghiani CA, Colwell CS, Paul KN. Sex Differences in Sleep Phenotypes in the BACHD Mouse Model of Huntington's Disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.28.538324. [PMID: 37162913 PMCID: PMC10168394 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.28.538324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances are common features of Huntington's disease (HD). HD is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder that affects men and women in equal numbers, but some epidemiological studies as well as preclinical work indicate there may be sex differences in disease progression. Since sex differences in HD could provide important insights to understand cellular and molecular mechanism(s), we used the bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic mouse model of HD (BACHD) to examine whether sex differences in sleep/wake cycles are detectable in an animal model of the disease. Electroencephalography/electromyography (EEG/EMG) was used to measure sleep/wake states and polysomnographic patterns in young adult (12 week-old) male and female wild-type and BACHD mice. Our findings show that male, but not female, BACHD mice exhibited increased variation in phases of the rhythms as compared to age and sex matched wild-types. For both Rapid-eye movement (REM) and Non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, genotypic and sex differences were detected. In particular, the BACHD males spent less time in NREM and exhibited a more fragmented sleep than the other groups. Both male and female BACHD mice exhibited significant changes in delta but not in gamma power compared to wild-type mice. Finally, in response to a 6-hrs sleep deprivation, both genotypes and sexes displayed predicted homeostatic responses to sleep loss. These findings suggest that females are relatively protected early in disease progression in this HD model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Chiem
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles
- Molecular, Cellular, Integrative Physiology program, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Kevin Zhao
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Gemma Stark
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Cristina A. Ghiani
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles
| | | | - Ketema N. Paul
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California Los Angeles
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles
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33
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Lucchi C, Codeluppi A, Filaferro M, Vitale G, Rustichelli C, Avallone R, Mandrioli J, Biagini G. Human Microglia Synthesize Neurosteroids to Cope with Rotenone-Induced Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040963. [PMID: 37107338 PMCID: PMC10135967 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We obtained evidence that mouse BV2 microglia synthesize neurosteroids dynamically to modify neurosteroid levels in response to oxidative damage caused by rotenone. Here, we evaluated whether neurosteroids could be produced and altered in response to rotenone by the human microglial clone 3 (HMC3) cell line. To this aim, HMC3 cultures were exposed to rotenone (100 nM) and neurosteroids were measured in the culture medium by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Microglia reactivity was evaluated by measuring interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels, whereas cell viability was monitored by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. After 24 h (h), rotenone increased IL-6 and reactive oxygen species levels by approximately +37% over the baseline, without affecting cell viability; however, microglia viability was significantly reduced at 48 h (p < 0.01). These changes were accompanied by the downregulation of several neurosteroids, including pregnenolone, pregnenolone sulfate, 5α-dihydroprogesterone, and pregnanolone, except for allopregnanolone, which instead was remarkably increased (p < 0.05). Interestingly, treatment with exogenous allopregnanolone (1 nM) efficiently prevented the reduction in HMC3 cell viability. In conclusion, this is the first evidence that human microglia can produce allopregnanolone and that this neurosteroid is increasingly released in response to oxidative stress, to tentatively support the microglia's survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lucchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Codeluppi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Monica Filaferro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Cecilia Rustichelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Rossella Avallone
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Ospedale Civile di Baggiovara, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Biagini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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34
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Payne A, Taka E, Adinew GM, Soliman KFA. Molecular Mechanisms of the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Epigallocatechin 3-Gallate (EGCG) in LPS-Activated BV-2 Microglia Cells. Brain Sci 2023; 13:632. [PMID: 37190597 PMCID: PMC10137201 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13040632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic neuroinflammation is associated with many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Microglia are the brain's primary immune cells, and when activated, they release various proinflammatory cytokines. Several natural compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, such as epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG), may provide a promising strategy for inflammation-related neurodegenerative diseases involving activated microglia cells. The objective of the current study was to examine the molecular targets underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of EGCG in activated microglia cells. BV-2 microglia cells were grown, stimulated, and treated with EGCG. Cytotoxicity and nitric oxide (NO) production were evaluated. Immunoassay, PCR array, and WES™ Technology were utilized to evaluate inflammatory, neuroprotective modulators as well as signaling pathways involved in the mechanistic action of neuroinflammation. Our findings showed that EGCG significantly inhibited proinflammatory mediator NO production in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglia cells. In addition, ELISA analysis revealed that EGCG significantly decreases the release of proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 while it increases the release of TNF-α. PCR array analysis showed that EGCG downregulated MIF, CCL-2, and CSF2. It also upregulated IL-3, IL-11, and TNFS10. Furthermore, the analysis of inflammatory signaling pathways showed that EGCG significantly downregulated mRNA expression of mTOR, NF-κB2, STAT1, Akt3, CCL5, and SMAD3 while significantly upregulating the expression of mRNA of Ins2, Pld2, A20/TNFAIP3, and GAB1. Additionally, EGCG reduced the relative protein expression of NF-κB2, mTOR, and Akt3. These findings suggest that EGCG may be used for its anti-inflammatory effects to prevent neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Karam F. A. Soliman
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health (COPPS, IPH), Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA
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35
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Umminger LF, Rojczyk P, Seitz-Holland J, Sollmann N, Kaufmann E, Kinzel P, Zhang F, Kochsiek J, Langhein M, Kim CL, Wiegand TLT, Kilts JD, Naylor JC, Grant GA, Rathi Y, Coleman MJ, Bouix S, Tripodis Y, Pasternak O, George MS, McAllister TW, Zafonte R, Stein MB, O'Donnell LJ, Marx CE, Shenton ME, Koerte IK. White Matter Microstructure Is Associated with Serum Neuroactive Steroids and Psychological Functioning. J Neurotrauma 2023; 40:649-664. [PMID: 36324218 PMCID: PMC10061338 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Military service members are at increased risk for mental health issues, and comorbidity with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is common. Largely overlapping symptoms between conditions suggest a shared pathophysiology. The present work investigates the associations among white matter microstructure, psychological functioning, and serum neuroactive steroids that are part of the stress-response system. Diffusion-weighted brain imaging was acquired from 163 participants (with and without military affiliation) and free-water-corrected fractional anisotropy (FAT) was extracted. Associations between serum neurosteroid levels of allopregnanolone (ALLO) and pregnenolone (PREGNE), psychological functioning, and whole-brain white matter microstructure were assessed using regression models. Moderation models tested the effect of mTBI and comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mTBI on these associations. ALLO is associated with whole-brain white matter FAT (β = 0.24, t = 3.05, p = 0.006). This association is significantly modulated by PTSD+mTBI comorbidity (β = 0.00, t = 2.50, p = 0.027), although an mTBI diagnosis alone did not significantly impact this association (p = 0.088). There was no significant association between PREGNE and FAT (p = 0.380). Importantly, lower FAT is associated with poor psychological functioning (β = -0.19, t = -2.35, p = 0.020). This study provides novel insight into a potential common pathophysiological mechanism of neurosteroid dysregulation underlying the high risk for mental health issues in military service members. Further, comorbidity of PTSD and mTBI may bring the compensatory effects of the brain's stress response to their limit. Future research is needed to investigate whether neurosteroid regulation may be a promising tool for restoring brain health and improving psychological functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa F. Umminger
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Philine Rojczyk
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Johanna Seitz-Holland
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nico Sollmann
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kaufmann
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Philipp Kinzel
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Fan Zhang
- Laboratory of Mathematics in Imaging, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Janna Kochsiek
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Mina Langhein
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cara L. Kim
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Tim L. T. Wiegand
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | - Jason D. Kilts
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research and Clinical Center (MIRECC) and Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NorthCarolina, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer C. Naylor
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research and Clinical Center (MIRECC) and Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NorthCarolina, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gerald A. Grant
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yogesh Rathi
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael J. Coleman
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sylvain Bouix
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yorghos Tripodis
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Boston University Alzheimer's Disease and CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ofer Pasternak
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mark S. George
- Psychiatry Department, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas W. McAllister
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Ross Zafonte
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Murray B. Stein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- School of Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Psychiatry Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lauren J. O'Donnell
- Laboratory of Mathematics in Imaging, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christine E. Marx
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research and Clinical Center (MIRECC) and Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NorthCarolina, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Martha E. Shenton
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Inga K. Koerte
- Psychiatry Neuroimaging Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- cBRAIN, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatic and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Graduate School of Systemic Neuroscience, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
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36
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Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Piazza R, Cioffi L, Herian M, Brivio P, Calabrese F, Giatti S, Caruso D, Melcangi RC. Gut microbiota composition is altered in a preclinical model of type 1 diabetes mellitus: Influence on gut steroids, permeability, and cognitive abilities. Neuropharmacology 2023; 226:109405. [PMID: 36572179 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones are not only synthesized from the gonads but also by other tissues, such as the brain (i.e., neurosteroids) and colon (i.e., gut steroids). Gut microbiota can be shaped from sex steroid hormones synthesized from the gonads and locally interacts with gut steroids as in turn modulates neurosteroids. Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is characterized by dysbiosis and also by diabetic encephalopathy. However, the interactions of players of gut-brain axis, such as gut steroids, gut permeability markers and microbiota, have been poorly explored in this pathology and, particularly in females. On this basis, we have explored, in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced adult female rats, whether one month of T1DM may alter (I) gut microbiome composition and diversity by 16S next-generation sequencing, (II) gut steroid levels by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, (III) gut permeability markers by gene expression analysis, (IV) cognitive behavior by the novel object recognition (NOR) test and whether correlations among these aspects may occur. Results obtained reveal that T1DM alters gut β-, but not α-diversity. The pathology is also associated with a decrease and an increase in colonic pregnenolone and allopregnanolone levels, respectively. Additionally, diabetes alters gut permeability and worsens cognitive behavior. Finally, we reported a significant correlation of pregnenolone with Blautia, claudin-1 and the NOR index and of allopregnanolone with Parasutterella, Gammaproteobacteria and claudin-1. Altogether, these results suggest new putative roles of these two gut steroids related to cognitive deficit and dysbiosis in T1DM female experimental model. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Microbiome & the Brain: Mechanisms & Maladies".
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Rocco Piazza
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano - Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Cioffi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Monika Herian
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Brivio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Calabrese
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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Lynch DG, Narayan RK, Li C. Multi-Mechanistic Approaches to the Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury: A Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062179. [PMID: 36983181 PMCID: PMC10052098 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Despite extensive research efforts, the majority of trialed monotherapies to date have failed to demonstrate significant benefit. It has been suggested that this is due to the complex pathophysiology of TBI, which may possibly be addressed by a combination of therapeutic interventions. In this article, we have reviewed combinations of different pharmacologic treatments, combinations of non-pharmacologic interventions, and combined pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions for TBI. Both preclinical and clinical studies have been included. While promising results have been found in animal models, clinical trials of combination therapies have not yet shown clear benefit. This may possibly be due to their application without consideration of the evolving pathophysiology of TBI. Improvements of this paradigm may come from novel interventions guided by multimodal neuromonitoring and multimodal imaging techniques, as well as the application of multi-targeted non-pharmacologic and endogenous therapies. There also needs to be a greater representation of female subjects in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G. Lynch
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA
| | - Raj K. Narayan
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Francis Hospital, Roslyn, NY 11576, USA
| | - Chunyan Li
- Translational Brain Research Laboratory, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
- Correspondence:
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38
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Zorkina Y, Abramova O, Ushakova V, Andreyuk D, Andriushchenko N, Pavlov K, Savilov V, Soloveva K, Kurmishev M, Syunyakov T, Karpenko O, Andryushchenko A, Gurina O, Kostyuk G, Morozova A. Inflammatory biomarkers and lipid metabolism parameters in women with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Women Health 2023; 63:285-295. [PMID: 36882933 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2023.2185750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The detection of specific markers of dementia and mild cognitive decline (MCI) could be the key to disease prevention and forehanded treatment. Female gender is one of the major risk factor for dementia. The aim of our study was to compare serum concentration of some factors related to lipid metabolism and the immune system in patients with MCI and dementia. The study was performed on women >65 years old: controls (n = 75), diagnosed with dementia (n = 73) and MCI (n = 142). Patients were evaluated using Mini-Mental State Examination, Clock Drawing Test and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scales in the period 2020-2021. The level of Apo A1 and HDL was significantly decreased in patients with dementia; the level of Apo A1 was also decreased in MCI. EGF, eotaxin-1, GRO-α, and IP-10 were elevated in patients with dementia compared to the controls. IL-8, MIP-1β, sCD40L, and TNF-α levels were decreased in MCI patients and increased in patients with dementia compared to the control. Serum VEGF levels were decreased in MCI and dementia patients in comparison with the control. We hypothesize that no single marker can indicate a neurodegenerative process. Future research should focus on identifying markers to determine possible diagnostic combinations that can reliably predict neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana Zorkina
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, V. Serbsky Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Abramova
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, V. Serbsky Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Valeria Ushakova
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, V. Serbsky Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Denis Andreyuk
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nika Andriushchenko
- Department of Biology, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Konstantin Pavlov
- Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, V. Serbsky Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor Savilov
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Kristina Soloveva
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marat Kurmishev
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Timur Syunyakov
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Karpenko
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alisa Andryushchenko
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Gurina
- Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, V. Serbsky Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Georgiy Kostyuk
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna Morozova
- Research Centre for Neuropsychiatry, Mental-Health Clinic No. 1 named after N.A. Alekseev, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, V. Serbsky Federal Medical Research Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia
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Mishra P, Davies DA, Albensi BC. The Interaction Between NF-κB and Estrogen in Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:1515-1526. [PMID: 36512265 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03152-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Post-menopausal women are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) than males. The higher rates of AD in women are associated with the sharp decline in the estrogen levels after menopause. Estrogen has been shown to downregulate inflammatory cytokines in the central nervous system (CNS), which has a neuroprotective role against neurodegenerative diseases including AD. Sustained neuroinflammation is associated with neurodegeneration and contributes to AD. Nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) is a transcription factor involved with the modulation of inflammation and interacts with estrogen to influence the progression of AD. Application of 17β-estradiol (E2) has been shown to inhibit NF-κB, thereby reducing transcription of NF-κB target genes. Despite accumulating evidence showing that estrogens have beneficial effects in pre-clinical AD studies, there are mixed results with hormone replacement therapy in clinical trials. Furthering our understanding of how NF-κB interacts with estrogen and alters the progression of neurodegenerative disorders including AD, should be beneficial and result in the development of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranav Mishra
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Research, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Don A Davies
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Benedict C Albensi
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St. Boniface Hospital Research, Winnipeg, MB, Canada. .,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada. .,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA.
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40
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The Pathological Activation of Microglia Is Modulated by Sexually Dimorphic Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054739. [PMID: 36902168 PMCID: PMC10003784 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia are the primary immunocompetent cells of the central nervous system (CNS). Their ability to survey, assess and respond to perturbations in their local environment is critical in their role of maintaining CNS homeostasis in health and disease. Microglia also have the capability of functioning in a heterogeneous manner depending on the nature of their local cues, as they can become activated on a spectrum from pro-inflammatory neurotoxic responses to anti-inflammatory protective responses. This review seeks to define the developmental and environmental cues that support microglial polarization towards these phenotypes, as well as discuss sexually dimorphic factors that can influence this process. Further, we describe a variety of CNS disorders including autoimmune disease, infection, and cancer that demonstrate disparities in disease severity or diagnosis rates between males and females, and posit that microglial sexual dimorphism underlies these differences. Understanding the mechanism behind differential CNS disease outcomes between men and women is crucial in the development of more effective targeted therapies.
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41
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Luo A, Wu Z, Li S, McReynolds CB, Wang D, Liu H, Huang C, He T, Zhang X, Wang Y, Liu C, Hammock BD, Hashimoto K, Yang C. The soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor TPPU improves comorbidity of chronic pain and depression via the AHR and TSPO signaling. J Transl Med 2023; 21:71. [PMID: 36732752 PMCID: PMC9896784 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-03917-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients suffering from chronic pain often also exhibit depression symptoms. Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitors can decrease blood levels of inflammatory cytokines. However, whether inhibiting sEH signaling is beneficial for the comorbidity of pain and depression is unknown. METHODS According to a sucrose preference test (SPT), spared nerve injury (SNI) mice were classified into pain with or without an anhedonia phenotype. Then, sEH protein expression and inflammatory cytokines were assessed in selected tissues. Furthermore, we used sEH inhibitor TPPU to determine the role of sEH in chronic pain and depression. Importantly, agonists and antagonists of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and translocator protein (TSPO) were used to explore the pathogenesis of sEH signaling. RESULTS In anhedonia-susceptible mice, the tissue levels of sEH were significantly increased in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), hippocampus, spinal cord, liver, kidney, and gut. Importantly, serum CYP1A1 and inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and the tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), were increased simultaneously. TPPU improved the scores of mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and SPT, and decreased the levels of serum CYP1A1 and inflammatory cytokines. AHR antagonist relieved the anhedonia behaviors but not the algesia behaviors in anhedonia-susceptible mice, whereas an AHR agonist abolished the antidepressant-like effect of TPPU. In addition, a TSPO agonist exerted a similar therapeutic effect to that of TPPU, whereas pretreatment with a TSPO antagonist abolished the antidepressant-like and analgesic effects of TPPU. CONCLUSIONS sEH underlies the mechanisms of the comorbidity of chronic pain and depression and that TPPU exerts a beneficial effect on anhedonia behaviors in a pain model via AHR and TSPO signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailin Luo
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Zifeng Wu
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Shan Li
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Cindy B. McReynolds
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Entomology and Nematology and UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Di Wang
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Hanyu Liu
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Chaoli Huang
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China ,grid.41156.370000 0001 2314 964XState Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Model Animal Research Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210061 China
| | - Teng He
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Xinying Zhang
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Cunming Liu
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Bruce D. Hammock
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Entomology and Nematology and UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Kenji Hashimoto
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| | - Chun Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
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42
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Tabor J, La P, Kline G, Wang M, Bonfield S, Machan M, Wynne-Edwards K, Emery C, Debert C. Saliva Cortisol as a Biomarker of Injury in Youth Sport-Related Concussion. J Neurotrauma 2023; 40:296-308. [PMID: 35906800 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing rates of sport-related concussion (SRC) in youth impose a significant burden on public health systems and the lives of young athletes. Accurate prediction for those likely to develop persistent post-concussion symptomology (PPCS) using a fluid biomarker, reflecting both acute injury and recovery processes, would provide the opportunity for early intervention. Cortisol, a stress hormone released through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis following injury, may provide a missing physiological link to clinical recovery. This cohort study investigated the change in saliva cortisol following SRC and the association between cortisol and symptom burden in pediatric ice hockey players. Further, the association between cortisol levels and medical clearance to return to play was explored. In total, cortisol samples from 233 players were included; 165 athletes (23.6% female) provided pre-injury saliva and 68 athletes (19.1% female) provided post-SRC saliva samples for cortisol analysis. Quantile (median) regressions were used to compare cortisol between pre-injury and post-SRC groups, and the association between total symptoms (/22) and symptom severity scores (/132) reported on the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT)3/SCAT5 and post-SRC cortisol (adjusting for age, sex, history of concussion, and time from injury to sample collection). Results demonstrated significantly lower saliva cortisol in post-SRC athletes compared with the pre-injury group (β = -0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI; -1.08, -0.16], p = 0.009). Post-SRC cortisol was not significantly associated with the SCAT3/SCAT5 symptom totals or symptom severity scores; however, females were found to report more symptoms (β = 6.95, 95% CI [0.35, 13.55], p = 0.040) and greater symptom severity (β = 23.87, 95% CI [9.58, 38.15], p = 0.002) compared with males. Exploratory time-to-event analysis revealed a point estimate suggesting a potential association between low cortisol levels and days to medical clearance to return to play. Although preliminary, these findings suggest that the HPA axis may be dysregulated post-SRC. Further, our exploratory analysis and case presentation of post-injury outliers highlight the need to further research cortisol as a prognostic biomarker to inform individualized sex-specific care after SRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Tabor
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Parker La
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Departments of Pediatrics and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gregory Kline
- Division of Endocrinology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stephan Bonfield
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Matthew Machan
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Katherine Wynne-Edwards
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carolyn Emery
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Departments of Pediatrics and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Chantel Debert
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Departments of Pediatrics and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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43
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Ferreyra S, González S. Therapeutic potential of progesterone in spinal cord injury-induced neuropathic pain: At the crossroads between neuroinflammation and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13181. [PMID: 35924434 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13181] [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: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, an area of active research has supported the notion that progesterone promotes a wide range of remarkable protective actions in experimental models of nervous system trauma or disease, and has also provided a strong basis for considering this steroid as a promising molecule for modulating the complex maladaptive changes that lead to neuropathic pain, especially after spinal cord injury. In this review, we intend to give the readers a brief appraisal of the main mechanisms underlying the increased excitability of the spinal circuit in the pain pathway after trauma, with particular emphasis on those mediated by the activation of resident glial cells, the subsequent release of proinflammatory cytokines and their impact on N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor function. We then summarize the available preclinical data pointing to progesterone as a valuable repurposing molecule for blocking critical cellular and molecular events that occur in the dorsal horn of the injured spinal cord and are related to the development of chronic pain. Since the treatment and management of neuropathic pain after spinal injury remains challenging, the potential therapeutic value of progesterone opens new traslational perspectives to prevent central pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sol Ferreyra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Susana González
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Laboratorio de Nocicepción y Dolor Neuropático, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Wu H, Huang H, Xu L, Ji N, Zhou X, Xie K. Case report: Subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord due to nitrous oxide abuse. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1099077. [PMID: 36779053 PMCID: PMC9909337 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1099077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nitrous oxide (N2O) is an increasingly popular recreational drug. N2O irreversibly disturbs the metabolism of vitamin B12, resulting in a functional deficiency. Vitamin B12 is vital for myelin synthesis and its deficiency primarily produces neurological complications. Inhaling N2O is more common and neurological complications are more evident than before. Case presentation We report a young man who developed progressive limb numbness and unsteady walking after N2O abuse. The dominant diagnosis was subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord (SCD). The patient was admitted to the hospital and given adenosylcobalamin treatment, but his symptoms progressed significantly from before and he developed acute cognitive impairment. After methylprednisolone combined with vitamin B12 treatment, symptoms significantly improved. Conclusion Clinicians need to understand the presentation and treatment of SCD caused by N2O abuse. When symptoms progress despite conventional vitamin B12 therapy, the combination of methylprednisolone and vitamin B12 may be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Wu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, China,Department of Neurology, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, China
| | - Huiqing Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Lianyungang Oriental Hospital, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liaoyang Xu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Niu Ji
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Xinyu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, China,Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang, China,*Correspondence: Xinyu Zhou ✉
| | - Kang Xie
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Lianyungang, China,Kang Xie ✉
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Matrisciano F, Pinna G. The Strategy of Targeting Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR) in the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1411:513-535. [PMID: 36949324 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7376-5_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nonsteroid nuclear receptors and transcription factors that regulate several neuroinflammatory and metabolic processes, recently involved in several neuropsychiatric conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. PPARs are ligand-activated receptors that, following stimulation, induce neuroprotective effects by decreasing neuroinflammatory processes through inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) expression and consequent suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. PPARs heterodimerize with the retinoid X-receptor (RXR) and bind to PPAR-responsive regulatory elements (PPRE) in the promoter region of target genes involved in lipid metabolism, synthesis of cholesterol, catabolism of amino acids, and inflammation. Interestingly, PPARs are considered functionally part of the extended endocannabinoid (eCB) system that includes the classic eCB, anandamide, which act at cannabinoid receptor types 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) and are implicated in the pathophysiology of stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. In preclinical studies, PPAR stimulation improves anxiety and depression-like behaviors by enhancing neurosteroid biosynthesis. The peculiar functional role of PPARs by exerting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects and their expression localization in neurons and glial cells of corticolimbic circuits make them particularly interesting as novel therapeutic targets for several neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by underlying neuroinflammatory/neurodegenerative mechanisms. Herein, we discuss the pathological hallmarks of neuropsychiatric conditions associated with neuroinflammation, as well as the pivotal role of PPARs with a special emphasis on the subtype alpha (PPAR-α) as a suitable molecular target for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Matrisciano
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Graziano Pinna
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Psychiatric Institute, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Clark BJ, Klinge CM. Structure-function of DHEA binding proteins. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2022; 123:587-617. [PMID: 37717999 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (3β-hydroxy-5-androsten-17-one, DHEA) and its sulfated metabolite DHEA-S are the most abundant circulating steroids and are precursors for active sex steroid hormones, estradiol and testosterone. DHEA has a broad range of reported effects in the central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular system, adipose tissue, kidney, liver, and in the reproductive system. The mechanisms by which DHEA and DHEA-S initiate their biological effects are diverse. DHEA and DHEA-S may directly bind to plasma membrane (PM) receptors, including a DHEA-specific, G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) in endothelial cells; various neuroreceptors, e.g., aminobutyric-acid-type A (GABA(A)), N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) and sigma-1 (S1R) receptors (NMDAR and SIG-1R). DHEA and DHEA-S directly bind the nuclear androgen and estrogen receptors (AR, ERα, or ERβ) although with significantly lower binding affinities compared to the steroid hormones, e.g., testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol, which are the cognate ligands for AR and ERs. Thus, extra-gonadal metabolism of DHEA to the sex hormones must be considered for many of the biological benefits of DHEA. DHEA also actives GPER1 (G protein coupled estrogen receptor 1). DHEA activates constitutive androstane receptor CAR (CAR) and proliferator activated receptor (PPARα) by indirect dephosphorylation. DHEA affects voltage-gated sodium and calcium ion channels and DHEA-2 activates TRPM3 (Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily M Member 3). This chapter updates our previous 2018 review pertaining to the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of DHEA and DHEA-S activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J Clark
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences (CIEHS), University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Carolyn M Klinge
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences (CIEHS), University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, United States.
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Su J, Yang P, Xing M, Chen B, Xie X, Ding J, Lu M, Liu Y, Guo Y, Hu G. Neuroprotective effects of a lead compound from coral via modulation of the orphan nuclear receptor Nurr1. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 29:893-906. [PMID: 36419251 PMCID: PMC9928544 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14025] [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: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To screen coral-derived compounds with neuroprotective activity and clarify the potential mechanism of lead compounds. METHODS The lead compounds with neuroprotective effects were screened by H2 O2 and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPP+ )-induced cell damage models in SH-SY5Y cells. CCK8 and LDH assays were used to detect cell viability. The anti-apoptosis of lead compounds was evaluated by flow cytometry. JC-1 and MitoSox assays were performed to examine the changes in mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial ROS level. Survival of primary cortical and dopaminergic midbrain neurons was measured by MAP2 and TH immunoreactivities. The Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model was established to determine the effect of lead compounds on dopaminergic neurons and behavior changes. RESULTS Three compounds (No. 63, 68, and 74), derived from marine corals, could markedly alleviate the cell damage and notably reverse the loss of worm dopaminergic neurons. Further investigation indicated that compound 63 could promote the expression of Nurr1 and inhibit neuronal apoptosis signaling pathways. CONCLUSION Lead compounds from marine corals exerted significant neuroprotective effects, which indicated that coral might be a new and potential resource for screening and isolating novel natural compounds with neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, this study also provided a new strategy for the clinical treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian‐Wei Su
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Pei Yang
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Mei‐Mei Xing
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Bao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug ResearchShanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Xia‐Hong Xie
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Jian‐Hua Ding
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of PharmacologyNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Ming Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Department of PharmacologyNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Yue‐Wei Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug ResearchShanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Gang Hu
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingJiangsuChina
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Eickhoff A, Tjaden J, Stahlke S, Vorgerd M, Theis V, Matschke V, Theiss C. Effects of progesterone on T-type-Ca 2+-channel expression in Purkinje cells. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:2465-2471. [PMID: 35535898 PMCID: PMC9120685 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.339008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasticity of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PC) is influenced by progesterone via the classical progesterone receptors PR-A and PR-B by stimulating dendritogenesis, spinogenesis, and synaptogenesis in these cells. Dissociated PC cultures were used to analyze progesterone effects at a molecular level on the voltage-gated T-type-Ca2+-channels Cav3.1, Cav3.2, and Cav3.3 as they helped determine neuronal plasticity by regulating Ca2+-influx in neuronal cells. The results showed direct effects of progesterone on the mRNA expression of T-type-Ca2+-channels, as well as on the protein kinases A and C being involved in downstream signaling pathways that play an important role in neuronal plasticity. For the mRNA expression studies of T-type-Ca2+-channels and protein kinases of the signaling cascade, laser microdissection and purified PC cultures of different maturation stages were used. Immunohistochemical staining was also performed to characterize the localization of T-type-Ca2+-channels in PC. Experimental progesterone treatment was performed on the purified PC culture for 24 and 48 hours. Our results show that progesterone increases the expression of Cav3.1 and Cav3.3 and associated protein kinases A and C in PC at the mRNA level within 48 hours after treatment at latest. These effects extend the current knowledge of the function of progesterone in the central nervous system and provide an explanatory approach for its influence on neuronal plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Eickhoff
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jonas Tjaden
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sarah Stahlke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Matthias Vorgerd
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Center Ruhrgebiet, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Verena Theis
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Veronika Matschke
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Carsten Theiss
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Anatomy, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Szczurowska E, Szánti-Pintér E, Randáková A, Jakubík J, Kudova E. Allosteric Modulation of Muscarinic Receptors by Cholesterol, Neurosteroids and Neuroactive Steroids. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13075. [PMID: 36361865 PMCID: PMC9656441 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors are membrane receptors involved in many physiological processes. Malfunction of muscarinic signaling is a cause of various internal diseases, as well as psychiatric and neurologic conditions. Cholesterol, neurosteroids, neuroactive steroids, and steroid hormones are molecules of steroid origin that, besides having well-known genomic effects, also modulate membrane proteins including muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. Here, we review current knowledge on the allosteric modulation of muscarinic receptors by these steroids. We give a perspective on the research on the non-genomic effects of steroidal compounds on muscarinic receptors and drug development, with an aim to ultimately exploit such knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Szczurowska
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo Namesti 2, Prague 6, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eszter Szánti-Pintér
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo Namesti 2, Prague 6, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Randáková
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Jakubík
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Kudova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo Namesti 2, Prague 6, 166 10 Prague, Czech Republic
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Involvement of the G-Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor-1 (GPER) Signaling Pathway in Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Review. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2022:10.1007/s10571-022-01301-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s10571-022-01301-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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