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Gurdita A, Kwiecien JM, Choh V. Development of a new surgical technique to infuse kynurenic acid to optic nerves in chickens for studying loss of myelination. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14361. [PMID: 36938412 PMCID: PMC10020079 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolonged infusion of a high dose of kynurenic acid (KYNA) reduces the myelin content in the rat spinal cord with preservation of the axonal integrity and without inducing an inflammatory response. We hypothesized that subdural infusion of a high concentration of KYNA can induce myelin loss in the optic nerves (ONs) of chickens. However, existing methods to deliver agents to the ON are inefficient, unlocalized and provide only acute exposure. Thus, we developed a surgical approach for sustained delivery of KYNA to the chicken ON. In brief, the novel surgical technique, which does not include excision of the extraocular muscles, involves incision of the skin and underlying fascial sheath to access the optic nerve within the muscle cone, implantation of a catheter in the dura of the optic nerve, the other end of which exits the orbit under the skin. The catheter runs under the skin near the lateral canthus, over the ears to the back of the neck, where a second incision is made to both implant the osmotic pump and to attach the catheter to the osmotic pump. India ink was used to confirm prolonged sustained administration to the optic nerves and across the chiasm. This surgical model was used to investigate KYNA's effect(s) on myelin loss in the ON. ONs of 7-day old chickens were infused with 50 mM KYNA or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) for seven days. Analysis of KYNA-infused contralateral ON g-ratios and protein levels indicated a reduction in myelin. These findings demonstrate the utility of our surgical approach for sustained delivery of KYNA into the ON and suggest a role for KYNA in modulating CNS myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Gurdita
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Jacek M. Kwiecien
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Vivian Choh
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Corresponding author. University of Waterloo, 200 Columbia St W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1
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Zieliński G, Filipiak Z, Ginszt M, Matysik-Woźniak A, Rejdak R, Gawda P. The Organ of Vision and the Stomatognathic System-Review of Association Studies and Evidence-Based Discussion. Brain Sci 2021; 12:brainsci12010014. [PMID: 35053758 PMCID: PMC8773770 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The stomatognathic system is a functional complex of tissues and organs located within the oral and craniofacial cavities. The craniofacial anatomical factors and the biomechanics of the temporomandibular joints affect many systems throughout the body, including the organ of vision. However, few scientific reports have shown a relationship between the organ of vision and the stomatognathic system. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of connections along neural, muscle-fascial, and biochemical pathways between the organ of vision and the stomatognathic system. Based on the literature presented in this review, the connections between the organ of vision and the stomatognathic system seem undeniable. Understanding the anatomical, physiological, and biochemical interrelationships may allow to explain the interactions between the mentioned systems. According to the current knowledge, it is not possible to indicate the main linking pathway; presumably, it may be a combination of several presented pathways. The awareness of this relationship among dentists, ophthalmologists, physiotherapists, and optometrists should increase for the better diagnosis and treatment of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Zieliński
- Department of Sports Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Zuzanna Filipiak
- Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Michał Ginszt
- Department of Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Anna Matysik-Woźniak
- Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.-W.); (R.R.)
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Department of General and Pediatric Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.M.-W.); (R.R.)
| | - Piotr Gawda
- Department of Sports Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
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Sandi D, Fricska-Nagy Z, Bencsik K, Vécsei L. Neurodegeneration in Multiple Sclerosis: Symptoms of Silent Progression, Biomarkers and Neuroprotective Therapy-Kynurenines Are Important Players. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113423. [PMID: 34198750 PMCID: PMC8201043 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is one of the driving forces behind the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Progression without activity, pathopsychological disturbances (cognitive impairment, depression, fatigue) and even optic neuropathy seems to be mainly routed in this mechanism. In this article, we aim to give a comprehensive review of the clinical aspects and symptomology, radiological and molecular markers and potential therapeutic targets of neurodegeneration in connection with MS. As the kynurenine pathway (KP) was evidenced to play an important role in the pathogenesis of other neurodegenerative conditions (even implied to have a causative role in some of these diseases) and more and more recent evidence suggest the same central role in the neurodegenerative processes of MS as well, we pay special attention to the KP. Metabolites of the pathway are researched as biomarkers of the disease and new, promising data arising from clinical evaluations show the possible therapeutic capability of KP metabolites as neuroprotective drugs in MS. Our conclusion is that the kynurenine pathway is a highly important route of research both for diagnostic and for therapeutic values and is expected to yield concrete results for everyday medicine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dániel Sandi
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
| | - Zsanett Fricska-Nagy
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
| | - Krisztina Bencsik
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
| | - László Vécsei
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-62-545-384; Fax: +36-62-545-597
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Neuroprotection in Glaucoma: NAD +/NADH Redox State as a Potential Biomarker and Therapeutic Target. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061402. [PMID: 34198948 PMCID: PMC8226607 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Its prevalence and incidence increase exponentially with age and the level of intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP reduction is currently the only therapeutic modality shown to slow glaucoma progression. However, patients still lose vision despite best treatment, suggesting that other factors confer susceptibility. Several studies indicate that mitochondrial function may underlie both susceptibility and resistance to developing glaucoma. Mitochondria meet high energy demand, in the form of ATP, that is required for the maintenance of optimum retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function. Reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels have been closely correlated to mitochondrial dysfunction and have been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases including glaucoma. NAD+ is at the centre of various metabolic reactions culminating in ATP production—essential for RGC function. In this review we present various pathways that influence the NAD+(H) redox state, affecting mitochondrial function and making RGCs susceptible to degeneration. Such disruptions of the NAD+(H) redox state are generalised and not solely induced in RGCs because of high IOP. This places the NAD+(H) redox state as a potential systemic biomarker for glaucoma susceptibility and progression; a hypothesis which may be tested in clinical trials and then translated to clinical practice.
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The Beneficial Effects of Edible Kynurenic Acid from Marine Horseshoe Crab ( Tachypleus tridentatus) on Obesity, Hyperlipidemia, and Gut Microbiota in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:8874503. [PMID: 34055199 PMCID: PMC8112934 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8874503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The marine horseshoe crab (Tachypleus tridentatus) has been considered as food and traditional medicine for many years. Kynurenic acid (KA) was isolated from horseshoe crab in this study for the first time in the world. A previous study in 2018 reported that intraperitoneal administration of KA prevented high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced body weight gain. Now, we investigated the effects of intragastric gavage of KA on HFD mice and found that KA (5 mg/kg/day) inhibited both the body weight gain and the increase of average daily energy intake. KA reduced serum triglyceride and increased serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. KA inhibited HFD-induced the increases of serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, coronary artery risk index, and atherosclerosis index. KA also suppressed HFD-induced the increase of the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (two dominant gut microbial phyla). KA partially reversed HFD-induced the changes in the composition of gut microbial genera. These overall effects of KA on HFD mice were similar to that of simvastatin (positive control). But the effects of 1.25 mg/kg/day KA on HFD-caused hyperlipidemia were similar to the effects of 5 mg/kg/day simvastatin. The pattern of relative abundance in 40 key genera of gut microbiota from KA group was closer to that from the normal group than that from the simvastatin group. In addition, our in vitro results showed the potential antioxidant activity of KA, which suggests that the improvement effects of KA on HFD mice may be partially associated with antioxidant activity of KA. Our findings demonstrate the potential role of KA as a functional food ingredient for the treatment of obesity and hyperlipidemia as well as the modulation of gut microbiota.
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Fiedorowicz M, Choragiewicz T, Turski WA, Kocki T, Nowakowska D, Wertejuk K, Kamińska A, Avitabile T, Wełniak-Kaminska M, Grieb P, Zweifel S, Rejdak R, Toro MD. Tryptophan Pathway Abnormalities in a Murine Model of Hereditary Glaucoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1039. [PMID: 33494373 PMCID: PMC7865582 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been shown that a possible pathogenetic mechanism of neurodegeneration in the mouse model of glaucoma (DBA/2J) may be an alteration of kynurenic acid (KYNA) in the retina. This study aimed to verify the hypothesis that alterations of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism in DBA/2J mice is not limited to the retina. METHODS Samples of the retinal tissue and serum were collected from DBA/2J mice (6 and 10 months old) and control C57Bl/6 mice of the same age. The concentration of TRP, KYNA, kynurenine (KYN), and 3-hydroxykynurenine (3OH-K) was measured by HPLC. The activity of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) was also determined as a KYN/TRP ratio. RESULTS TRP, KYNA, L-KYN, and 3OH-K concentration were significantly lower in the retinas of DBA/2J mice than in C57Bl/6 mice. 3OH-K concentration was higher in older mice in both strains. Serum TRP, L-KYN, and KYNA concentrations were lower in DBA/2J than in age-matched controls. However, serum IDO activity did not differ significantly between compared groups and strains. CONCLUSIONS Alterations of the TRP pathway seem not to be limited to the retina in the murine model of hereditary glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Fiedorowicz
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.F.); (M.W.-K.); (P.G.)
| | - Tomasz Choragiewicz
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-079 Lublin, Poland; (T.C.); (D.N.); (K.W.); (R.R.)
| | - Waldemar A. Turski
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-079 Lublin, Poland; (W.A.T.); (T.K.)
| | - Tomasz Kocki
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-079 Lublin, Poland; (W.A.T.); (T.K.)
| | - Dominika Nowakowska
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-079 Lublin, Poland; (T.C.); (D.N.); (K.W.); (R.R.)
| | - Kamila Wertejuk
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-079 Lublin, Poland; (T.C.); (D.N.); (K.W.); (R.R.)
| | - Agnieszka Kamińska
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Teresio Avitabile
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Marlena Wełniak-Kaminska
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.F.); (M.W.-K.); (P.G.)
| | - Pawel Grieb
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.F.); (M.W.-K.); (P.G.)
| | - Sandrine Zweifel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-079 Lublin, Poland; (T.C.); (D.N.); (K.W.); (R.R.)
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-079 Lublin, Poland; (T.C.); (D.N.); (K.W.); (R.R.)
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland;
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
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Walczak K, Wnorowski A, Turski WA, Plech T. Kynurenic acid and cancer: facts and controversies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:1531-1550. [PMID: 31659416 PMCID: PMC7162828 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03332-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is an endogenous tryptophan metabolite exerting neuroprotective and anticonvulsant properties in the brain. However, its importance on the periphery is still not fully elucidated. KYNA is produced endogenously in various types of peripheral cells, tissues and by gastrointestinal microbiota. Furthermore, it was found in several products of daily human diet and its absorption in the digestive tract was evidenced. More recent studies were focused on the potential role of KYNA in carcinogenesis and cancer therapy; however, the results were ambiguous and the biological activity of KYNA in these processes has not been unequivocally established. This review aims to summarize the current views on the relationship between KYNA and cancer. The differences in KYNA concentration between physiological conditions and cancer, as well as KYNA production by both normal and cancer cells, will be discussed. The review also describes the effect of KYNA on cancer cell proliferation and the known potential molecular mechanisms of this activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walczak
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Artur Wnorowski
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Waldemar A Turski
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Plech
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
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Fiedorowicz M, Choragiewicz T, Thaler S, Schuettauf F, Nowakowska D, Wojtunik K, Reibaldi M, Avitabile T, Kocki T, Turski WA, Kaminska A, Grieb P, Zrenner E, Rejdak R, Toro MD. Tryptophan and Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites in Animal Models of Retinal and Optic Nerve Damage: Different Dynamics of Changes. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1254. [PMID: 31632294 PMCID: PMC6781742 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Kynurenines, products of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism, display neurotoxic (e.g., 3-hydroxykynurenine; 3-HK), or neuroprotective (e.g., kynurenic acid; KYNA) properties. Imbalance between the enzymes constituting the kynurenine pathway (KP) plays a role in several disease, including neurodegeneration. In this study, we track changes in concentrations of tryptophan and its selected metabolites after damage to retinal ganglion cells and link this data with expression of KP enzymes. Brown-Norway rats were subjected to intravitreal N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) injection or partial optic nerve crush (PONC). Retinas were collected 2 and 7 days after the completion of PONC or NMDA injection. Concentrations of TRP, kynurenine (KYN), and KYNA were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Data on gene expression in the rat retina were extracted from GEO, public microarray experiments database. Two days after NMDA injection concentration of TRP decreased, while KYN and KYNA increased. At day 7 compared to day 2 decrease of KYN, KYNA and further reduction of TRP concentration were observed, but on day 7 KYN concentration was still elevated when compared to controls. At day 2 and 7 after NMDA injection no statistically significant alterations of 3-HK were observed. TRP and 3-HK concentration was higher in PONC group than in controls. However, both KYN and KYNA were lower. At day seven concentration of TRP, 3-HK, and KYN was higher, whereas concentration of KYNA declined. In vivo experiments showed that retinal damage or optic nerve lesion affect TRP metabolism via KP. However, the pattern of changes in metabolite concentrations was different depending on the model. In particular, in PONC KYNA and KYN levels were decreased and 3-HK elevated. These observations correspond with data on expression of genes encoding KP enzymes assessed after optic nerve crush or transection. After intraorbital optic nerve crush downregulation of KyatI and KyatIII between 24 h and 3 days after procedure was observed. Kmo expression was transiently upregulated (12 h after the procedures). After intraorbital optic nerve transsection (IONT) Kmo expression was upregulated after 48 h and 7 days, KyatI and KyatIII were downregulated after 12, 48 h, 7 days and upregulated after 15 days. Collected data point to the conclusion that development of therapeutic strategies targeting the KP could be beneficial in diseases involving retinal neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Fiedorowicz
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Choragiewicz
- Department of General Ophthalmology and Pediatric Ophthalmology Service, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Sebastian Thaler
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Frank Schuettauf
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dominika Nowakowska
- Department of General Ophthalmology and Pediatric Ophthalmology Service, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Kamila Wojtunik
- Department of General Ophthalmology and Pediatric Ophthalmology Service, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | | | | | - Tomasz Kocki
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Waldemar A Turski
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kaminska
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel Grieb
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Eberhart Zrenner
- Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Robert Rejdak
- Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of General Ophthalmology and Pediatric Ophthalmology Service, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Mario Damiano Toro
- Department of General Ophthalmology and Pediatric Ophthalmology Service, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland.,Eye Clinic, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Zarnowski T, Choragiewicz TJ, Schuettauf F, Zrenner E, Rejdak R, Gasior M, Zarnowska I, Thaler S. Ketogenic Diet Attenuates NMDA-Induced Damage to Rat's Retinal Ganglion Cells in an Age-Dependent Manner. Ophthalmic Res 2015; 53:162-7. [DOI: 10.1159/000379753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Rejdak R, Oleszczuk A, Rummelt C, Turski WA, Choragiewicz T, Nowomiejska K, Ksiazek K, Thaler S, Zarnowski T, Okuno E, Grieb P, Zrenner E, Kruse F, Junemann AGM. Presence and distribution of L-kynurenine aminotransferases immunoreactivity in human cataractous lenses. Acta Ophthalmol 2013; 91:e450-5. [PMID: 23590420 DOI: 10.1111/aos.12138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the presence and distribution of l-kynurenine aminotransferases immunoreactivity in human and animal lenses during cataract formation. METHODS Immunohistochemistry was conducted using polyclonal antibodies against KAT I, KAT II and KAT III on sections of 26 anterior capsules from patients undergoing surgical treatment of anterior subcapsular cataract (ASC) and 22 cataractous lenses from human eyes enucleated because of choroidal malignant melanoma. Additionally, the eyes of 11-month-old DBA/2J mice (6 eyes) were investigated (with KAT I and II). Ten clear human lenses and four BL6 mice lenses were used as controls. Spatial immunoreactivity patterns of enzymes were compared with Periodic Acid - Schiff (PAS)-stained sections. RESULTS Immunohistochemical analysis revealed presence of KAT I, KAT II and KAT III in extracellular structures of all studied types of cataract in human eyes showing specific pattern of the stain. In cortical cataract, immunoreactivity was observed on cortical lens fibres. In nuclear cataract, KAT II revealed stronger and diffused staining than KAT I. Additionally, both KAT showed more pronounced staining at the edge of small clefts. In normal human lenses, KAT I, II and III, immunoreactivity was not observed. Presence of KAT I and KAT II in the intercellular substance of DBA/2J mice cataract was observed. In BL6 mice lenses without cataract, only weak KAT I and KAT II staining was observed. CONCLUSIONS Presence of l-kynurenine aminotransferases in extracellular matrix (ECM) during human cataract formation suggests that products of l-kynurenine pathway might be involved in mechanisms of cataractogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rejdak
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Erlangen-Nuernberg, Germany
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Rejdak R, Junemann A, Grieb P, Thaler S, Schuettauf F, Chorągiewicz T, Zarnowski T, Turski WA, Zrenner E. Kynurenic acid and kynurenine aminotransferases in retinal aging and neurodegeneration. Pharmacol Rep 2012; 63:1324-34. [PMID: 22358081 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(11)70697-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Revised: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs) KAT I and KAT II are pivotal to the synthesis of kynurenic acid (KYNA), the only known endogenous glutamate receptor antagonist and neuroprotectant. KAT I and II have been found in avian, rodent, and human retina. Expression of KAT I in Müller cell endfeet and KAT II in retinal ganglion cells has been documented. Developmental changes in KAT expression and KYNA concentration in the avian and rodent retina have also been found. Studies of retinal neurodegeneration have shown alterations in KYNA synthesis in the retina in response to retinal ganglion cell loss. In DBA/2J mice, a model of ocular hypertension, an age-dependent decrease of retinal KYNA and KATs was found. In the corpora amylacea in the human retina intensive KAT I and II immunoreactivity was demonstrated. In summary, these findings point to the potential involvement of KYNA in the mechanisms of retinal aging and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rejdak
- Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Roentgenweg 11, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany.
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Zdzisińska B, Wejksza K, Walter-Croneck A, Turski WA, Kandefer-Szerszeń M. Kynurenic acid in blood and bone marrow plasma of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Leuk Res 2010; 34:38-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2009.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2009] [Revised: 04/25/2009] [Accepted: 06/13/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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13
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Nakazawa T, Takahashi H, Nishijima K, Shimura M, Fuse N, Tamai M, Hafezi-Moghadam A, Nishida K. Pitavastatin prevents NMDA-induced retinal ganglion cell death by suppressing leukocyte recruitment. J Neurochem 2007; 100:1018-31. [PMID: 17266736 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2006.04274.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Excitotoxicity is a major cause of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death during ischemic diseases such as vessel occlusion and diabetic retinopathy. However, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Statins, inhibitors of the HMG-CoA reductase, have neuroprotective effects in addition to their original role in lowering cholesterol. We hypothesize that pitavastatin, a recently introduced potent statin, is protective against N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA)-induced RGC death. Pitavastatin, administered by gavage, abolished NMDA-induced loss of RGCs. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effect of pitavastatin, we investigated its impact on inflammation. NMDA increased the expression of interleukin-1beta and TNF-alpha, and endothelial adhesion molecules, including ICAM-1, and induced leukocyte accumulation in the retinal vessels. Pitavastatin significantly reduced NMDA-induced leukocyte accumulation and up-regulation of endothelial adhesion molecules, whereas cytokine expression was unaffected. Systemic blockade of ICAM-1 in wild-type mice or absence of CD18 in gene-deficient (CD18(-/-)) mice significantly suppressed NMDA-induced leukocyte accumulation and RGC death. These findings suggest a novel and causative role for inflammatory leukocyte recruitment in NMDA-induced excitotoxicity. Furthermore, we show the novel neuroprotective effect of statins against excitotoxicity-induced RGC death. Statins or other anti-inflammatory agents may thus have therapeutic benefits in excitotoxicity-associated neuronal diseases through blockade of leukocyte recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Nakazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Miyagi, Japan.
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14
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Zarnowski T, Bialek M, Rejdak R, Zrenner E, Junemann A, Zagorski Z, Kocki T, Turski WA. Kynurenic acid synthesis in bovine retinal slices--effect of glutamate agonists. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2006; 113:1367-72. [PMID: 16465462 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-005-0423-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2005] [Accepted: 11/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of glutamate agonists upon kynurenic acid (KYNA) production in bovine retinal slices. Quantitative analysis of newly synthesized KYNA was carried out using an HPLC system and detected fluorimetrically. Glutamate at the concentration of 0.01, 0.1 and 1 mM reduced KYNA synthesis in the retinal slices to 70% (p < 0.05), 35% (p < 0.01) and 23% (p < 0.001), respectively. The concentration of glutamate reducing production of KYNA by 50% (IC(50)) was 0.035 mM (0.02-0.06). Aspartate at the concentration of 0.01, 0.1 and 1 mM lowered KYNA synthesis in the retinal slices to 80% (p < 0.01), 57% (p < 0.001) and 43% (p < 0.001), respectively. In contrast, kainic acid (up to 5 mM), alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionate (AMPA) (up to 1 mM) and 1-aminocyclopentane-trans-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (t-ACPD) (up to 3 mM) turned out to be ineffective in diminishing KYNA synthesis. These data demonstrate that glutamate, aspartate and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) inhibit KYNA synthesis in bovine retinal slices with different potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Zarnowski
- Tadeusz Krwawicz Chair of Ophthalmology and 1st Eye Hospital, Medical University of Lublin, Poland.
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15
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Schuettauf F, Eibl KH, Thaler S, Shinoda K, Rejdak R, May CA, Blatsios G, Welge-Lussen U. Toxicity study of erucylphosphocholine in a rat model. Curr Eye Res 2005; 30:813-20. [PMID: 16146926 DOI: 10.1080/02713680591006093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of intraocular erucylphosphocholine (ErPC) on the retina, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and the choroid in an in vivo rat model. METHODS Adult male Brown Norway rats were injected intravitreally with ErPC dissolved in balanced salt solution (BSS) at a final concentration of 10 or 100 microM with BSS serving as control. Adverse effects on the anterior and posterior segment were assessed by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy. Retinal toxicity was assessed by electroretinography (ERG), retinal ganglion cell (RGC) quantification, and histology 7 days after intravitreal administration of ErPC. RESULTS There was neither a statistically significant difference in the clinical examination nor in the ERG waves of treated versus control rats 7 days after intravitreal administration of ErPC. Correspondingly, the number of RGC after BSS injection did not differ significantly from ErPC-injected animals. Histologic sections of the posterior segment of 10 and 100 microM ErPC-injected rats did not show any signs of retinal toxicity. Electron microscopy did not display a difference between the 10 microM and the control group. Only the 100 microM-injected animals showed a discrete irregularity of the Müller cell and the retinal ganglion cell cytoplasm at the ultrastructural level. CONCLUSIONS ErPC can safely be injected into the vitreous of adult rats at a concentration of 10 microM without any retinal toxicity. Even a 10-fold increase in ErPC concentration leads only to a discrete cytoplasmic irregularity of the innermost retinal layers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Schuettauf
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany
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16
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Parada-Turska J, Rzeski W, Zgrajka W, Majdan M, Kandefer-Szerszeń M, Turski W. Kynurenic acid, an endogenous constituent of rheumatoid arthritis synovial fluid, inhibits proliferation of synoviocytes in vitro. Rheumatol Int 2005; 26:422-6. [PMID: 16220290 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-005-0057-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2005] [Accepted: 08/31/2005] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Kynurenic acid is an antagonist of ionotropic glutamate receptors. It has been found that glutamate antagonists inhibit proliferation of different human tumor cells. Since the hyperplasia of synovial fibroblasts is one of the most striking features of inflammatory arthritis, the main goals of this study were detection and quantification of kynurenic acid in synovial fluid obtained from patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and determination of its effect on proliferation of synoviocytes in vitro. Presence of kynurenic acid was determined by HPLC in all 58 samples of synovial fluid. The mean concentration was 15.89 pmol/ml. Kynurenic acid inhibited synoviocyte proliferation with the IC50 value of 5.9 mM. In subthreshold concentration of 0.3 mM it enhanced antiproliferative action of celecoxib and nimesulide. In conclusion, the presence of kynurenic acid in synovial fluid was documented in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Its potential role as an endogenous substance, controlling synoviocyte proliferation can be suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Parada-Turska
- Department of Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-950 Lublin, Poland.
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17
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Rejdak R, Kohler K, Kocki T, Shenk Y, Turski WA, Okuno E, Lehaci C, Zagorski Z, Zrenner E, Schuettauf F. Age-dependent decrease of retinal kynurenate and kynurenine aminotransferases in DBA/2J mice, a model of ocular hypertension. Vision Res 2004; 44:655-60. [PMID: 14751550 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2003.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The study examines age-dependent changes of kynurenic acid (KYNA) content and kynurenine aminotransferases (KAT I and KAT II) celluar expression in the retinas of DBA/2J mice. Retinas were obtained from DBA/2J mice of different ages (3, 6 and 11 months). C57BL6 mice were used as controls. As measured with HPLC, KYNA content decreased (p < 0.01) in the retinas of 6-month-old DBA/2J mice and continued to decrease (p < 0.0074) in the retinas of 11-month-old animals compared to the controls. Immunohistochemistry showed that expression of both KAT I and KAT II decreased markedly in the retinas of 11-month-old DBA/2J mice compared to controls. The impairment in KYNA biosynthesis in the retinas of DBA/2J mice may be one of the mechanisms of retinal neurodegeneration related to ocular hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rejdak
- Department of Pathophysiology of Vision and Neuro-Ophthalmology, Division of Experimental Opthalmology, University Eye Hospital, Röntgenweg 11, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
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18
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Zarnowski T, Rejdak R, Zagorski Z, Juenemann AGM, Zrenner E, Kocki T, Urbanska EM, Turski WA. Content of Kynurenic Acid and Activity of Kynurenine Aminotransferases in Mammalian Eyes. Ophthalmic Res 2004; 36:124-8. [PMID: 15017110 DOI: 10.1159/000076893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2003] [Accepted: 01/01/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated the kynurenic acid (KYNA) contents and kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT I and II) activity in structures of the human, monkey, rabbit and bovine eye. KYNA levels were investigated with HPLC and detected fluorimetrically. The activity of KAT I and II was assayed as quantitative analysis of newly synthesized KYNA in vitro. Mean KYNA levels (+/-SD) in the human retina and vitreous body were 36.8 +/- 7.6 and 33.1 +/- 6.2 pmol/g wet tissue weight, respectively. In human eyes, KAT I activity in the vitreous body was 0.57 +/- 0.28, that of KAT II was 2.56 +/- 0.69. KAT I activity in the retina was 3.42 +/- 1.17 and that of KAT II 10.75 +/- 9.2. (KAT activity is expressed as KYNA synthesis in picomoles per gram wet tissue weight per hour.) The values of KYNA and KAT observed in other mammalian species tested were in the same range. In conclusion, KYNA and KAT enzymatic activity are present in the structures of human and other mammalian eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Zarnowski
- Tadeusz Krwawicz Chair of Ophthalmology and 1st Eye Hospital, Lublin, Poland.
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Rejdak R, Shenk Y, Schuettauf F, Turski WA, Okuno E, Zagorski Z, Zrenner E, Kohler K. Expression of kynurenine aminotransferases in the rat retina during development. Vision Res 2004; 44:1-7. [PMID: 14599566 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2003.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The study investigates the cellular expression of kynurenine aminotransferases (KAT I and II) in the rat retina during development. At P1 (the day of birth) and P7 (the 7th day after birth), KAT I expression was observed in the inner plexiform layer (IPL), the fiber layer (FL), and in vertically running processes in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) (but not in the cell bodies). At P14 (the 14th day after birth) a strong KAT I immunoreactivity was observed in Müller cell endfeet. KAT II was expressed in the IPL, the FL, and in cells in the GCL at P1 and P7. From P14 on, KAT II expression in the IPL decreased. Double labeling revealed that KAT I was expressed in Müller cell endfeet, whilst KAT II both on retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and Müller cell endfeet. In conclusion, KAT I and II are present in the rat retina during development. The heterogeneity of the KAT developmental profiles possibly reflects a neuromodulatory role in the retinal differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rejdak
- Department of Pathophysiology of Vision and Neuro-Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital, Division of Experimental Ophthalmology, Röntgenweg 11, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany.
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