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Hu S, Yang L, Ma Y, Li L, Li Z, Wen X, Wu Z. Protection against H 2O 2-evoked toxicity in HT22 hippocampal neuronal cells by geissoschizine methyl ether via inhibiting ERK pathway. Transl Neurosci 2022; 13:369-378. [PMID: 36304098 PMCID: PMC9552775 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2022-0243] [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: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is considered as an important mechanism underlying the pathology of neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we utilized an in vitro model where oxidative stress process was evoked by exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in HT22 murine hippocampal neurons and evaluated the neuroprotective effects of geissoschizine methyl ether (GME), a naturally occurring alkaloid from the hooks of Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Jacks. After a 24 h H2O2 (350 μM) insult, a significant decrease in cell survival and a sharp increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species were observed in HT22 cells. Encouragingly, GME (10-200 μM) effectively reversed these abnormal cellular changes induced by H2O2. Moreover, mechanistic studies using Western blot revealed that GME inhibited the increase of phospho-ERK protein expression, but not phospho-p38, caused by H2O2. Molecular docking simulation further revealed a possible binding mode that GME inhibited ERK protein, showing that GME favorably bound to ERK via multiple hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions. These findings indicate that GME provide effective neuroprotection via inhibiting ERK pathway and also encourage further ex vivo and in vivo pharmacological investigations of GME in treating oxidative stress-mediated neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengquan Hu
- Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine/Shenzhen Institute of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yucui Ma
- Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine/Shenzhen Institute of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Limin Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine/Shenzhen Institute of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhiyue Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine/Shenzhen Institute of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaomin Wen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhengzhi Wu
- Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine/Shenzhen Institute of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
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Zhang S, Duangjan C, Tencomnao T, Wu L, Wink M, Lin J. Oolonghomobisflavans exert neuroprotective activities in cultured neuronal cells and anti-aging effects in Caenorhabditis elegans. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:967316. [PMID: 36158534 PMCID: PMC9490402 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.967316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Potential health benefits of tea has attracted significant scientific and public attention worldwide. Tea polyphenols are considered as natural promising complementary therapeutical agents for neurodegenerative diseases. However, the anti-neurodegeneration or anti-aging activities of oolong tea polyphenols have not been investigated. The current study aims to document beneficial effects of oolong tea polyphenols [dimers of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), oolonghomobisflavan A (OFA), and oolonghomobisflavan B (OFB)] with neuroprotective and neuritogenesis properties in cultured neuronal (Neuro-2a and HT22) cells and Caenorhabditis elegans models. In vitro, we found that the compounds (EGCG, OFA, and OFB) protect against glutamate-induced neurotoxicity via scavenging radical activity, suppression intracellular ROS and up-regulation of antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, the compounds induce neurite outgrowth via up-regulate Ten-4 gene expression. Interestingly, OFA and OFB exert stronger neuroprotective and neurite outgrowth properties than EGCG known as an excellent antioxidant agent in tea. In vivo, we found that the compounds protect against C. elegans Aβ-induced paralysis, chemotaxis deficiency and α-synuclein aggregation. Moreover, the compounds are capable of extending the lifespan of C. elegans. OFA and OFB possess both anti-neurodegeneration and anti-aging activities, supporting its therapeutic potential for the treatment of age-related neurodegenerative diseases which need to be studied in more detail in intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxiong Zhang
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing Research Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Chatrawee Duangjan
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing Research Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Tewin Tencomnao
- Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing Research Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Liangyu Wu
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Michael Wink
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Michael Wink,
| | - Jinke Lin
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Anxi College of Tea Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
- Jinke Lin,
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3
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Mak S, Li W, Fu H, Luo J, Cui W, Hu S, Pang Y, Carlier PR, Tsim KW, Pi R, Han Y. Promising tacrine/huperzine A-based dimeric acetylcholinesterase inhibitors for neurodegenerative disorders: From relieving symptoms to modifying diseases through multitarget. J Neurochem 2021; 158:1381-1393. [PMID: 33930191 PMCID: PMC8458250 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, are devastating diseases in the elderly world, which are closely associated with progressive neuronal loss induced by a variety of genetic and/or environmental factors. Unfortunately, currently available treatments for neurodegenerative disorders can only relieve the symptoms but not modify the pathological processes. Over the past decades, our group by collaborating with Profs. Yuan-Ping Pang and Paul R. Carlier has developed three series of homo/hetero dimeric acetylcholinesterase inhibitors derived from tacrine and/or huperzine A. The representative dimers bis(3)-Cognitin (B3C), bis(12)-hupyridone, and tacrine(10)-hupyridone might possess disease-modifying effects through the modulation of N-methyl-d-aspartic acid receptors, the activation of myocyte enhancer factor 2D gene transcription, and the promotion of neurotrophic factor secretion. In this review, we summarize that the representative dimers, such as B3C, provide neuroprotection against a variety of neurotoxins via multiple targets, including the inhibitions of N-methyl-d-aspartic acid receptor with pathological-activated potential, neuronal nitric oxide synthase, and β-amyloid cascades synergistically. More importantly, B3C might offer disease-modifying potentials by activating myocyte enhancer factor 2D transcription, inducing neuritogenesis, and promoting the expressions of neurotrophic factors in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, the novel dimers might offer synergistic disease-modifying effects, proving that dimerization might serve as one of the strategies to develop new generation of therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinghung Mak
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Division of Life Science and Center for Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wenming Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hongjun Fu
- Department of Neuroscience, Chronic Brain Injury, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jialie Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch and Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Wei Cui
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo Key Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Shengquan Hu
- Shenzhen Institute of Geriatrics, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanping Pang
- Mayo Cancer Center, Department of Pharmacology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Karl Wahkeung Tsim
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Edible and Medicinal Bioresources, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Division of Life Science and Center for Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rongbiao Pi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Han
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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4
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Chen Q, Tu Y, Mak S, Chen J, Lu J, Chen C, Yang X, Wang S, Wen S, Ma S, Li M, Han Y, Wah-Keung Tsim K, Pi R. Discovery of a novel small molecule PT109 with multi-targeted effects against Alzheimer's disease in vitro and in vivo. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 883:173361. [PMID: 32673674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is characterized by impairment of cognitive functions, is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that mainly affects the elderly. Currently available anti-AD drugs can only offer limited symptom-relieving effects. "One-compound-Multitargeted Strategy" have been recognized as the promising way to win the war against AD. Herein we report a potential anti-AD agent PT109 with multi-functions. First, an 81-kinase screening was carried out and results showed that PT109 potently inhibited c-Jun N-terminal kinases and Serum and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase 1, which are the important signaling molecules involved in neurogenesis, neuroprotection and neuroinflammation and mildly inhibit glycogen synthase kinase-3β as well as protein kinase C gamma, both are involved in AD pathological processes. In addition, invitro studies of immunofluorescent staining and Western blot showed that PT109 might promote the neurogenesis of C17.2 cells and induce synaptogenesis in primary cultured rat hippocampal neurons. We detected and confirmed the neuroprotective effect of PT109 in cultured HT22 cells by MTT assay, dehydrogenase assay, glutathione assay and reactive oxygen species assay. Furthermore, the results of Western blot, ELISA assay and immunofluorescent staining indicated that PT109 attenuated lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in BV2 cells and primary astrocytes. The results of Morris water maze and Step-through test indicated that PT109 improved the spatial learning ability in APP/PS1 mice. More importantly, the invivo pharmacokinetic parameters indicated that PT109 had better medicinal properties. Taken together, our findings suggest that PT109 may be a promising candidate for treating AD through multiple targets although further studies are ought to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuhe Chen
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yalin Tu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Shinghung Mak
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Jingkao Chen
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Junfeng Lu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaohong Yang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Shengnan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Shijun Wen
- Cancer Center of South China, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shanshan Ma
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Mingtao Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yifan Han
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Karl Wah-Keung Tsim
- Division of Life Science and Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong
| | - Rongbiao Pi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; International Joint Laboratory (SYSU-PolyU HK) of Novel Anti-Dementia Drugs of Guangdong, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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5
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Hu S, Xian Y, Fan Y, Mak S, Wang J, Tang J, Pang Y, Pi R, Tsim KW, Liu F, Lin Z, Han Y. Significant combination of Aβ aggregation inhibitory and neuroprotective properties in silico, in vitro and in vivo by bis(propyl)-cognitin, a multifunctional anti-Alzheimer’s agent. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 876:173065. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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6
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Zuo X, Hu S, Tang Y, Zhan L, Sun W, Zheng J, Han Y, Xu E. Attenuation of secondary damage and Aβ deposits in the ipsilateral thalamus of dMCAO rats through reduction of cathepsin B by bis(propyl)-cognitin, a multifunctional dimer. Neuropharmacology 2020; 162:107786. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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7
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Wang Z, Huang J, Liu C, Liu L, Shen Y, Shen C, Liu C. BAF45D Downregulation in Spinal Cord Ependymal Cells Following Spinal Cord Injury in Adult Rats and Its Potential Role in the Development of Neuronal Lesions. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1151. [PMID: 31736692 PMCID: PMC6828649 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01151] [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: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The endogenous spinal cord ependymal cells (SCECs), which form the central canal (CC), are critically involved in proliferation, differentiation and migration after spinal cord injury (SCI) and represents a repair cell source in treating SCI. Previously, we reported that BAF45D is expressed in the SCECs and the spinal cord neurons in adult mice and knockdown of BAF45D fail to induce expression of PAX6, a neurogenic fate determinant, during early neural differentiation of human embryonic stem cells. However, the effects of SCI on expression of BAF45D have not been reported. The aim of this study is to explore the expression and potential role of BAF45D in rat SCI model. In this study, adult rats were randomly divided into intact, sham, and SCI groups. We first explored expression of BAF45D in the SCECs in intact adult rats. We then explored SCI-induced loss of motor neurons and lesion of neurites in the anterior horns induced by the SCI. We also investigated whether the SCI-induced lesions in SCECs are accompanied by the motor neuron lesions. Finally, we examined the effect of BAF45D knockdown on cell growth in neuro2a cells. Our data showed that BAF45D is expressed in SCECs, neurons, and oligodendrocytes but not astrocytes in the spinal cords of intact adult rats. After SCI, the structure of CC was disrupted and the BAF45D-positive SCEC-derivatives were decreased. During the early stages of SCI, when shape of CC was affected but there was no disruption in circular structure of the SCECs, it was evident that there was a significant reduction in the number of neurites and motor neurons in the anterior horns compared with those of intact rats. In comparison, a complete loss of SCECs accompanied by further loss of motor neurons but not neurites was observed at the later stage. BAF45D knockdown was also found to inhibit cell growth in neuro2a cells. These results highlight the decreased expression of BAF45D in SCI-injured SCECs and the potential role of BAF45D downregulation in development of neuronal lesion after SCI in adult rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Huang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lihua Liu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuxian Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Cailiang Shen
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chao Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Institute of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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8
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Ke Z, Hu S, Cui W, Sun J, Zhang S, Mak S, Wang J, Tang J, Pang Y, Han Y, Tong K. Bis(propyl)-cognitin potentiates rehabilitation of treadmill exercise after a transient focal cerebral ischemia, possibly via inhibiting NMDA receptor and regulating VEGF expression. Neurochem Int 2019; 128:143-153. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2019.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Sánchez-Vidaña DI, Chow JKW, Hu SQ, Lau BWM, Han YF. Molecular Targets of Bis (7)-Cognitin and Its Relevance in Neurological Disorders: A Systematic Review. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:445. [PMID: 31143096 PMCID: PMC6521802 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The exact mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative conditions are not fully known. The design of drugs that act on multiple targets represents a promising approach that should be explored for more effective clinical options for neurodegenerative disorders. B7C is s synthetic drug that has been studied for over 20 years and represents a promising multi-target drug for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as AD. Aims: The present systematic review, thus, aims at examining existing studies on the effect of B7C on different molecular targets and at discussing the relevance of B7C in neurological disorders. Methods: A list of predefined search terms was used to retrieve relevant articles from the databases of Embase, Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The selection of articles was done by two independent authors, who were considering articles concerned primarily with the evaluation of the effect of B7C on neurological disorders. Only full-text articles written in English were included; whereas, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, book chapters, conference subtracts, and computational studies were excluded. Results: A total of 2,266 articles were retrieved out of which 41 articles were included in the present systematic review. The effect of B7C on molecular targets, including AChE, BChE, BACE-1, NMDA receptor, GABA receptor, NOS, and Kv4.2 potassium channels was evaluated. Moreover, the studies that were included assessed the effect of B7C on biological processes, such as apoptosis, neuritogenesis, and amyloid beta aggregation. The animal studies examined in the review focused on the effect of B7C on cognition and memory. Conclusions: The beneficial effects observed on different molecular targets and biological processes relevant to neurological conditions confirm that B7C is a promising multi-target drug with the potential to treat neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason Ka Wing Chow
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sheng Quan Hu
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Benson Wui Man Lau
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yi-Fan Han
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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Hu S, Mak S, Zuo X, Li H, Wang Y, Han Y. Neuroprotection Against MPP +-Induced Cytotoxicity Through the Activation of PI3-K/Akt/GSK3β/MEF2D Signaling Pathway by Rhynchophylline, the Major Tetracyclic Oxindole Alkaloid Isolated From Uncaria rhynchophylla. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:768. [PMID: 30072894 PMCID: PMC6060423 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhynchophylline is a major tetracyclic oxindole alkaloid in Uncaria rhynchophylla, which has been extensively used as traditional herb medicine for the prevention of convulsions and hypertension. However, there is still little evidence about the neuroprotective effects of rhynchophylline for Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative condition currently without any effective cure. In this present study, the neuroprotective molecular mechanisms of rhynchophylline were investigated in a cellular model associated with PD. It is shown that rhynchophylline (10–50 μM) greatly prevented neurotoxicity caused by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+) in primary cerebellar granule neurons, as evidenced by the promotion of cell viability as well as the reversal of dysregulated protein expression of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Very encouragingly, we found that rhynchophylline markedly enhanced the activity of the transcription factor myocyte enhancer factor 2D (MEF2D) at both basal and pathological conditions using luciferase reporter gene assay, and reversed the inhibition of MEF2D caused by MPP+. Additionally, pharmacological inhibition of PI3-Kinase or short hairpin RNA-mediated gene down-regulation of MEF2D abrogated the protection provided by rhynchophylline. Furthermore, Western blot analysis revealed that rhynchophylline could potentiate PI3-K/Akt to attenuate GSK3β (the MEF2D inhibitor) in response to MPP+ insult. In conclusion, rhynchophylline inhibits MPP+-triggered neurotoxicity by stimulating MEF2D via activating PI3-K/Akt/GSK3β cascade. Rhynchophylline is served as a novel MEF2D enhancer and might be a potential candidate for further preclinical study in the prevention of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengquan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology (Incubation), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - Shinghung Mak
- State Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology (Incubation), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - Xialin Zuo
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - Haitao Li
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-Cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuqiang Wang
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-Cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Han
- State Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology (Incubation), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
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11
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Ren C, Li XH, Wang SB, Wang LX, Dong N, Wu Y, Yao YM. Activation of Central Alpha 7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Reverses Suppressed Immune Function of T Lymphocytes and Protects Against Sepsis Lethality. Int J Biol Sci 2018; 14:748-759. [PMID: 29910685 PMCID: PMC6001681 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.24576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis remains the leading cause of high mortality and huge financial burden in intensive care units (ICU), but with scarce effective treatments due to refractory multiple organ dysfunction and persistent immunosuppression. Treatments that aim at modulating immune function and attenuating multiple organ injury will certainly benefit septic cases. Alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAchR) has been reported with potent immunomodulatory properties in various diseases as the essential mediator of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP). Few studies have demonstrated the potential effect of central α7nAchR on the progression and prognosis of septic response, while its expression was first discovered on neurons and most abundant in the central nervous system. In the present study, it was found severe damage of multiple organs under the operation of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats, including heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs, as evidenced by abnormal histomorphology and notable elevation of injury markers. Concurrently, the function of spleen CD4+ T cells was disrupted under septic challenge, accompanied by polarization of helper T cell (Th)2, which exhibited outward signs of immunosuppression. Intracerebroventricular injection of PNU282987, a selective agonist of α7nAchR, significantly alleviated multiple organ injury, reversed immunosuppressive state, and improved the outcome of septic rats, while they were exacerbated by treatment with methyllycaconitine, a selective antagonist of α7nAchR. This study provides the first evidence that activation of central α7nAchR is beneficial for attenuating multiple organ dysfunction as well as abnormal immune response, and improving the prognosis of rats when exposed with sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ren
- Trauma Research Center, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China.,School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Hua Li
- Trauma Research Center, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China.,Emergency Department, Jin Hua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua 321001, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi-Bin Wang
- Trauma Research Center, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Xue Wang
- Trauma Research Center, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Dong
- Trauma Research Center, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Wu
- Trauma Research Center, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong-Ming Yao
- Trauma Research Center, First Hospital Affiliated to the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, People's Republic of China.,School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease, the Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, People's Republic of China
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12
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Hu S, Hu H, Mak S, Cui G, Lee M, Shan L, Wang Y, Lin H, Zhang Z, Han Y. A Novel Tetramethylpyrazine Derivative Prophylactically Protects against Glutamate-Induced Excitotoxicity in Primary Neurons through the Blockage of N-Methyl-D-aspartate Receptor. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:73. [PMID: 29483871 PMCID: PMC5816056 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The over-activation of NMDA receptor via the excessive glutamate is believed to one of the most causal factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder. Molecules that could protect against glutamate-induced neurotoxicity may hold therapeutic values for treating AD. Herein, the neuroprotective mechanisms of dimeric DT-010, a novel derivative of naturally occurring danshensu and tetramethylpyrazine, were investigated using primary rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) and hippocampal neurons. It was found that DT-010 (3–30 μM) markedly prevented excitotoxicity of CGNs caused by glutamate, as evidenced by the promotion of neuronal viability as well as the reversal of abnormal morphological changes. While its parent molecules did not show any protective effects even when their concentration reached 50 μM. Additionally, DT-010 almost fully blocked intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species caused by glutamate and exogenous oxidative stimulus. Moreover, Western blot results demonstrated that DT-010 remarkably attenuated the inhibition of pro-survival PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway caused by glutamate. Ca2+ imaging with Fluo-4 fluorescence analysis further revealed that DT-010 greatly declined glutamate-induced increase in intracellular Ca2+. Most importantly, with the use of whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology, DT-010 directly inhibited NMDA-activated whole-cell currents in primary hippocampal neurons. Molecular docking simulation analysis further revealed a possible binding mode that inhibited NMDA receptor at the ion channel, showing that DT-010 favorably binds to Asn602 of NMDA receptor via arene hydrogen bond. These results suggest that DT-010 could be served as a novel NMDA receptor antagonist and protect against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity from blocking the upstream NMDA receptors to the subsequent Ca2+ influx and to the downstream GSK3β cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengquan Hu
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Huihui Hu
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shinghung Mak
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.,Shenzhen Research Institute, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guozhen Cui
- Department of Bioengineering, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Mingyuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
| | - Luchen Shan
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuqiang Wang
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huangquan Lin
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zaijun Zhang
- Institute of New Drug Research and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Innovative Chemical Drug Research in Cardio-cerebrovascular Diseases, Jinan University College of Pharmacy, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Han
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Institute of Modern Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.,Shenzhen Research Institute, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, China
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13
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Protection against 1-methyl-4-phenyl pyridinium-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells by Soyasaponin I by the activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/GSK3β pathway. Neuroreport 2018; 27:730-6. [PMID: 27196724 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000000603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) can be ascribed to the progressive and selective loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, and thus molecules with neuroprotective ability may have therapeutic value against PD. In the current study, the neuroprotective effects and underlying mechanisms of Soyasaponin I (Soya-I), a naturally occurring triterpene extracted from a widely used ingredient in many foods, such as Glycine max (soybean), were evaluated in a widely used cellular PD model in which neurotoxicity was induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl pyridinium (MPP) in cultured SH-SY5Y cells. We found that Soya-I at 10-40 μM considerably protected against MPP-induced neurotoxicity as evidenced by an increase in cell viability, a decrease in lactate dehydrogenase release, and a reduction in apoptotic nuclei. Moreover, Soya-I effectively inhibited the elevated intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species as well as the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio caused by MPP. Most importantly, Soya-I markedly reversed the inhibition of protein expression of phosphorylated AKT and phosphorylated GSK3β caused by MPP. LY294002, the specific inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase, significantly abrogated the upregulated phosphorylated AKT and phosphorylated GSK3β offered by Soya-I, suggesting that the neuroprotection of Soya-I was mainly dependent on the activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. The results taken together indicate that Soya-I may be a potential candidate for further preclinical study aimed at the prevention and treatment of PD.
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14
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Lu JYD, Su P, Barber JEM, Nash JE, Le AD, Liu F, Wong AHC. The neuroprotective effect of nicotine in Parkinson's disease models is associated with inhibiting PARP-1 and caspase-3 cleavage. PeerJ 2017; 5:e3933. [PMID: 29062606 PMCID: PMC5651169 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical evidence points to neuroprotective effects of smoking in Parkinson’s disease (PD), but the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated the pharmacological pathways involved in these neuroprotective effects, which could provide novel ideas for developing targeted neuroprotective treatments for PD. We used the ETC complex I inhibitor methylpyridinium ion (MPP+) to induce cell death in SH-SY5Y cells as a cellular model for PD and found that nicotine inhibits cell death. Using choline as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist, we found that nAChR stimulation was sufficient to protect SH-SY5Y cells against cell death from MPP+. Blocking α7 nAChR with methyllycaconitine (MLA) prevented the protective effects of nicotine, demonstrating that these receptors are necessary for the neuroprotective effects of nicotine. The neuroprotective effect of nicotine involves other pathways relevant to PD. Cleaved Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) and cleaved caspase-3 were decreased by nicotine in 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesioned mice and in MPP+-treated SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, our data indicate that nicotine likely exerts neuroprotective effects in PD through the α7 nAChR and downstream pathways including PARP-1 and caspase-3. This knowledge could be pursued in future research to develop neuroprotective treatments for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Y D Lu
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ping Su
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - James E M Barber
- Centre for the Neurobiology of Stress, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto, Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joanne E Nash
- Centre for the Neurobiology of Stress, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto, Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anh D Le
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fang Liu
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Albert H C Wong
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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15
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Substantial protection against MPTP-associated Parkinson's neurotoxicity in vitro and in vivo by anti-cancer agent SU4312 via activation of MEF2D and inhibition of MAO-B. Neuropharmacology 2017; 126:12-24. [PMID: 28807675 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated the unexpected neuroprotection of the anti-cancer agent SU4312 in cellular models associated with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the precise mechanisms underlying its neuroprotection are still unknown, and the effects of SU4312 on rodent models of PD have not been characterized. In the current study, we found that the protection of SU4312 against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+)-induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells was achieved through the activation of transcription factor myocyte enhancer factor 2D (MEF2D), as evidenced by the fact that SU4312 stimulated myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) transcriptional activity and prevented the inhibition of MEF2D protein expression caused by MPP+, and that short hairpin RNA (ShRNA)-mediated knockdown of MEF2D significantly abolished the neuroprotection of SU4312. Additionally, Western blotting analysis revealed that SU4312 potentiated pro-survival PI3-K/Akt pathway to down-regulate MEF2D inhibitor glycogen synthase kinase-3beta (GSK3β). Furthermore, using the in vivo PD model of C57BL/6 mice insulted with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), we found that intragastrical administration of SU4312 (0.2 and 1 mg/kg) greatly ameliorated Parkinsonian motor defects, and restored protein levels of MEF2D, phosphorylated-Ser473-Akt and phosphorylated-Ser9-GSK3β. Meanwhile, SU4312 effectively reversed the decrease in protein expression of tyrosine hydroxylase in substantia nigra pars compacta dopaminergic neurons, inhibited oxidative stress, maintained mitochondrial biogenesis and partially prevented the depletion of dopamine and its metabolites. Very encouragingly, SU4312 was able to selectively inhibit monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) activity both in vitro and in vivo, with an IC50 value of 0.2 μM. These findings suggest that SU4312 provides therapeutic benefits in cellular and animal models of PD, possibly through multiple mechanisms including enhancement of MEF2D through the activation of PI3-K/Akt pathway, maintenance of mitochondrial biogenesis and inhibition of MAO-B activity. SU4312 thus may be an effective drug candidate for the prevention or even modification of the pathological processes of PD.
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16
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Yu WX, Lin CQ, Zhao Q, Lin XJ, Dong XL. Neuroprotection against hydrogen peroxide-induced toxicity by Dictyophora echinovolvata polysaccharide via inhibiting the mitochondria-dependent apoptotic pathway. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 88:569-573. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.01.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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17
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Pickart L, Vasquez-Soltero JM, Margolina A. The Effect of the Human Peptide GHK on Gene Expression Relevant to Nervous System Function and Cognitive Decline. Brain Sci 2017; 7:E20. [PMID: 28212278 PMCID: PMC5332963 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci7020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration, the progressive death of neurons, loss of brain function, and cognitive decline is an increasing problem for senior populations. Its causes are poorly understood and therapies are largely ineffective. Neurons, with high energy and oxygen requirements, are especially vulnerable to detrimental factors, including age-related dysregulation of biochemical pathways caused by altered expression of multiple genes. GHK (glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine) is a human copper-binding peptide with biological actions that appear to counter aging-associated diseases and conditions. GHK, which declines with age, has health promoting effects on many tissues such as chondrocytes, liver cells and human fibroblasts, improves wound healing and tissue regeneration (skin, hair follicles, stomach and intestinal linings, boney tissue), increases collagen, decorin, angiogenesis, and nerve outgrowth, possesses anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-pain and anti-anxiety effects, increases cellular stemness and the secretion of trophic factors by mesenchymal stem cells. Studies using the Broad Institute Connectivity Map show that GHK peptide modulates expression of multiple genes, resetting pathological gene expression patterns back to health. GHK has been recommended as a treatment for metastatic cancer, Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease, inflammation, acute lung injury, activating stem cells, pain, and anxiety. Here, we present GHK's effects on gene expression relevant to the nervous system health and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loren Pickart
- Research & Development Department, Skin Biology, 4122 Factoria Boulevard SE Suite No. 200 Bellevue, WA 98006, USA.
| | | | - Anna Margolina
- Research & Development Department, Skin Biology, 4122 Factoria Boulevard SE Suite No. 200 Bellevue, WA 98006, USA.
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18
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Mendell AL, Creighton CE, Kalisch BE, MacLusky NJ. 5α-Androstane-3α,17β-Diol Inhibits Neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y Human Neuroblastoma Cells and Mouse Primary Cortical Neurons. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4570-4578. [PMID: 27754784 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Low free T levels in men are associated with age-related cognitive decline and increased risk for neurotoxicity, resulting in disease. The mechanisms underlying these observations remain poorly defined. Although rapid, androgen receptor-dependent activation of ERK has been postulated as a neurotrophic and neuroprotective mechanism, actions of T metabolites such as 5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol (3α-diol) may also be involved. We investigated the influence of 3α-diol on the induction of ERK phosphorylation in SH-SY5Y human female neuroblastoma cells and primary cortical neurons from male and female mice. In SH-SY5Y cells, ERK phosphorylation was induced by 10 nM DHT, epidermal growth factor, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and acetylcholine. The addition of 10 nM 3α-diol, which did not itself activate ERK, significantly inhibited ERK phosphorylation induced by DHT, epidermal growth factor, or H2O2, but not acetylcholine. In both SH-SY5Y cells and primary cortical neurons, prolonged ERK phosphorylation and caspase-3 cleavage resulting from amyloid β-peptide 1-42 (Aβ42) exposure were inhibited by cotreatment with 3α-diol. 3α-diol also reduced the loss in cellular viability induced by Aβ42 or H2O2 in SH-SY5Y cells. These data suggest that T-mediated neuroprotection may occur via two distinct but complementary mechanisms: an initial rapid activation of ERK phosphorylation, followed by modulation via 3α-diol of the potentially adverse consequences of prolonged ERK activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Mendell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences (A.L.M., C.E.C., B.E.K., N.J.M.), Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - C E Creighton
- Department of Biomedical Sciences (A.L.M., C.E.C., B.E.K., N.J.M.), Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - B E Kalisch
- Department of Biomedical Sciences (A.L.M., C.E.C., B.E.K., N.J.M.), Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 2W1
| | - Neil J MacLusky
- Department of Biomedical Sciences (A.L.M., C.E.C., B.E.K., N.J.M.), Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 2W1
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19
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Application of the Co-culture Membrane System Pointed to a Protective Role of Catestatin on Hippocampal Plus Hypothalamic Neurons Exposed to Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:7369-7381. [PMID: 27815840 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0240-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Depletion of oxygen and glucose even for brief periods is sufficient to cause cerebral ischemia, which is a predominant worldwide cause of motor deficits with the reduction of life quality and subsequently death. Hence, more insights regarding protective measures against ischemic events are becoming a major research goal. Among the many neuronal factors, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR), orexinergic neuroreceptors (ORXR), and sympatho-inhibitory neuropeptide catestatin (CST) are widely involved with ischemic episodes. In this study, it was possible to induce in vitro ischemic conditions of the hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) hippocampal and hypothalamic neuronal cultures, grown on a newly compartmentalized membrane system, via oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD). These cultures displayed notably differentiated NMDARergic and ORXergic receptor expression activities along with evident brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plus orexin A (ORX-A) secretion, especially under co-cultured conditions. Interestingly, addition of CST in OGD-insulted hippocampal cells accounted for upregulated GluN1 and ORX1R transcripts that in the case of the latter neuroreceptor was very strongly (p < 0.001) increased when co-cultured with hypothalamic cells. Similarly, hypothalamic neurons supplied very evident upregulations of GluN1, ORX1R, and above all of GluN2A transcripts along with increased BDNF and ORX-A secretion in the presence of hippocampal cells. Overall, the preferential CST effects on BDNF plus ORX-A production together with altered NMDAR and ORXR levels, especially in co-cultured hypothalamic cells pointed to ORX-containing neurons as major protective constituents against ischemic damages thus opening new scenarios on the cross-talking roles of CST during ischemic disorders.
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20
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Potent Protection Against MPP +-Induced Neurotoxicity via Activating Transcription Factor MEF2D by a Novel Derivative of Naturally Occurring Danshensu/Tetramethylpyrazine. Neuromolecular Med 2016; 18:561-572. [PMID: 27277280 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-016-8399-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Danshensu (DSS) and tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) are active ingredients of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. and Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort that are widely used in oriental medicine. Structural combination of compounds with known biological activity may lead to the formation of a molecule with multiple properties or new function profile. In the current study, the neuroprotective effects of DT-010, a novel analogue in which TMP was coupled to DSS through an ester bond and two allyl groups at the carboxyl group, were evaluated in a cellular model of Parkinson's disease (PD). As evidenced by the increase in cell survival, as well as the decrease in the number of Hoechst-stained apoptotic nuclei and the level of intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species, DT-010 at 3-30 µM substantially protected against MPP+-induced neurotoxicity in both PC12 cells and primary cerebellar granule neurons, a protection that was more potent and efficacious than its parent molecules DSS and TMP. Very encouragingly, we found that DT-010, but not DSS or TMP, could enhance myocyte enhancer factor 2D (MEF2D) transcriptional activity using luciferase reporter gene assay. The neuroprotective effects of DT-010 could be blocked by pharmacologic inhibition of PI3K pathways with LY294002, or MEF2D pathway with short hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of MEF2D. Furthermore, western blot analysis revealed that DT-010 potentiates Akt protein expression against MPP+ to down-regulate MEF2D inhibitor GSK3β. Taken together, the results suggest that DT-010 prevents MPP+-induced neurotoxicity via enhancing MEF2D through the activation of PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathway. DT-010 may be a potential candidate for further preclinical study for preventing and treating PD.
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21
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Zhao Q, Ye J, Wei N, Fong C, Dong X. Protection against MPP(+)-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells by tormentic acid via the activation of PI3-K/Akt/GSK3β pathway. Neurochem Int 2016; 97:117-23. [PMID: 26994872 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2016.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The cause of Parkinson's disease (PD) could be ascribed to the progressive and selective loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, and thus molecules with neuroprotective ability may have therapeutic value against PD. In the current study, the neuroprotective effects and underlying mechanisms of tormentic acid (TA), a naturally occurring triterpene extracted from medicinal plants such as Rosa rugosa and Potentilla chinensis, were evaluated in a widely used cellular PD model in which neurotoxicity was induced by MPP(+) in cultured SH-SY5Y cells. We found that TA at 1-30 μM substantially protected against MPP(+)-induced neurotoxicity, as evidenced by the increase in cell viability, decrease in lactate dehydrogenase release and the reduction in apoptotic nuclei. Moreover, TA effectively inhibited the elevated intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species as well as Bax/Bcl-2 ratio caused by MPP(+). Most importantly, TA markedly reversed the inhibition of protein expression of phosphorylated Akt (Ser 473) and phosphorylated GSK3β (Ser 9) caused by MPP(+). LY294002, the specific inhibitor of PI3-K, significantly abrogated the up-regulated phosphorylated Akt and phosphorylated GSK3β offered by TA, suggesting that the neuroprotection of TA was mainly dependent on the activation of PI3-K/Akt/GSK3β signaling pathway. The results taken together indicate that TA may be a potential candidate for further preclinical study aimed at the prevention and treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Linzi Maternal & Child Health Hospital of Zibo, Zibo, Shandong, China
| | - Junli Ye
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Na Wei
- Department of Neurology, Linzi Maternal & Child Health Hospital of Zibo, Zibo, Shandong, China
| | - Chichun Fong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoli Dong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Research Institute of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, State Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology (Incubation), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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