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Giorgioni G, Bonifazi A, Botticelli L, Cifani C, Matteucci F, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Giannella M, Piergentili A, Piergentili A, Quaglia W, Del Bello F. Advances in drug design and therapeutic potential of selective or multitarget 5-HT1A receptor ligands. Med Res Rev 2024. [PMID: 38808959 DOI: 10.1002/med.22049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
5-HT1A receptor (5-HT1A-R) is a serotoninergic G-protein coupled receptor subtype which contributes to several physiological processes in both central nervous system and periphery. Despite being the first 5-HT-R identified, cloned and studied, it still represents a very attractive target in drug discovery and continues to be the focus of a myriad of drug discovery campaigns due to its involvement in numerous neuropsychiatric disorders. The structure-activity relationship studies (SAR) performed over the last years have been devoted to three main goals: (i) design and synthesis of 5-HT1A-R selective/preferential ligands; (ii) identification of 5-HT1A-R biased agonists, differentiating pre- versus post-synaptic agonism and signaling cellular mechanisms; (iii) development of multitarget compounds endowed with well-defined poly-pharmacological profiles targeting 5-HT1A-R along with other serotonin receptors, serotonin transporter (SERT), D2-like receptors and/or enzymes, such as acetylcholinesterase and phosphodiesterase, as a promising strategy for the management of complex psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, medicinal chemistry aspects of ligands acting as selective/preferential or multitarget 5-HT1A-R agonists and antagonists belonging to different chemotypes and developed in the last 7 years (2017-2023) have been discussed. The development of chemical and pharmacological 5-HT1A-R tools for molecular imaging have also been described. Finally, the pharmacological interest of 5-HT1A-R and the therapeutic potential of ligands targeting this receptor have been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianfabio Giorgioni
- Medicinal Chemistry Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bonifazi
- Medicinal Chemistry Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse - Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Luca Botticelli
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Carlo Cifani
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Federica Matteucci
- Medicinal Chemistry Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | | | - Mario Giannella
- Medicinal Chemistry Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | - Alessia Piergentili
- Medicinal Chemistry Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Wilma Quaglia
- Medicinal Chemistry Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Fabio Del Bello
- Medicinal Chemistry Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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2
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Saraf TS, Chen Y, Tyagi R, Canal CE. Altered brain serotonin 5-HT 1A receptor expression and function in juvenile Fmr1 knockout mice. Neuropharmacology 2024; 245:109774. [PMID: 37923121 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
There are no approved pharmacotherapies for fragile X syndrome (FXS), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation in the FMR1 promoter region that leads to various symptoms, including intellectual disability and auditory hypersensitivity. The gene that encodes inhibitory serotonin 1A receptors (5-HT1ARs) is differentially expressed in embryonic brain tissue from individuals with FXS, and 5-HT1ARs are highly expressed in neural systems that are disordered in FXS, providing a rationale to focus on 5-HT1ARs as targets to treat symptoms of FXS. We examined agonist-labeled 5-HT1AR densities in male and female Fmr1 knockout mice and found no differences in whole-brain 5-HT1AR expression in adult control compared to Fmr1 knockout mice. However, juvenile Fmr1 knockout mice had lower whole-brain 5-HT1AR expression than age-matched controls. Consistent with these results, juvenile Fmr1 knockout mice showed reduced behavioral responses elicited by the 5-HT1AR agonist (R)-8-OH-DPAT, effects blocked by the selective 5-HT1AR antagonist, WAY-100635. Also, treatment with the selective 5-HT1AR agonist, NLX-112, dose-dependently prevented audiogenic seizures (AGS) in juvenile Fmr1 knockout mice, an effect reversed by WAY-100635. Suggestive of a potential role for 5-HT1ARs in regulating AGS, compared to males, female Fmr1 knockout mice had a lower prevalence of AGS and higher expression of antagonist-labeled 5-HT1ARs in the inferior colliculus and auditory cortex. These results provide preclinical support that 5-HT1AR agonists may be therapeutic for young individuals with FXS hypersensitive to auditory stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanishka S Saraf
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Yiming Chen
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Richa Tyagi
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Clinton E Canal
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA.
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3
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McGlynn RP, Cui M, Brems B, Holbrook O, Booth RG. Development of 2-Aminotetralin-Type Serotonin 5-HT 1 Agonists: Molecular Determinants for Selective Binding and Signaling at 5-HT 1A, 5-HT 1B, 5-HT 1D, and 5-HT 1F Receptors. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:357-370. [PMID: 38150333 PMCID: PMC10797628 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) 5-HT1 G-protein coupled receptor subtypes (5-HT1A/1B/1D/1E/1F) share a high sequence homology, confounding development of subtype-specific ligands. This study used a 5-HT1 structure-based ligand design approach to develop subtype-selective ligands using a 5-substituted-2-aminotetralin (5-SAT) chemotype, leveraging results from pharmacological, molecular modeling, and mutagenesis studies to delineate molecular determinants for 5-SAT binding and function at 5-HT1 subtypes. 5-SATs demonstrated high affinity (Ki ≤ 25 nM) and at least 50-fold stereoselective preference ([2S] > [2R]) at 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, and 5-HT1D receptors but essentially nil affinity (Ki > 1 μM) at 5-HT1F receptors. The 5-SATs tested were agonists with varying degrees of potency and efficacy, depending on chemotype substitution and 5-HT1 receptor subtype. Models were built from the 5-HT1A (cryo-EM), 5-HT1B (crystal), and 5-HT1D (cryo-EM) structures, and 5-SATs underwent docking studies with up to 1 μs molecular dynamics simulations. 5-SAT interactions observed at positions 3.33, 5.38, 5.42, 5.43, and 7.39 of 5-HT1 subtypes were confirmed with point mutation experiments. Additional 5-SATs were designed and synthesized to exploit experimental and computational results, yielding a new full efficacy 5-HT1A agonist with 100-fold selectivity over 5-HT1B/1D receptors. The results presented lay the foundation for the development of additional 5-HT1 subtype selective ligands for drug discovery purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan P. McGlynn
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Meng Cui
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Brittany Brems
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Otto Holbrook
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Raymond G. Booth
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern
University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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4
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Tyagi R, Saraf TS, Canal CE. The Psychedelic N, N-Dipropyltryptamine Prevents Seizures in a Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome via a Mechanism that Appears Independent of Serotonin and Sigma1 Receptors. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:1480-1491. [PMID: 37854624 PMCID: PMC10580393 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The serotonergic psychedelic psilocybin shows efficacy in treating neuropsychiatric disorders, though the mechanism(s) underlying its therapeutic effects remain unclear. We show that a similar psychedelic tryptamine, N,N-dipropyltryptamine (DPT), completely prevents audiogenic seizures (AGS) in an Fmr1 knockout mouse model of fragile X syndrome at a 10 mg/kg dose but not at lower doses (3 or 5.6 mg/kg). Despite showing in vitro that DPT is a serotonin 5-HT2A, 5-HT1B, and 5-HT1A receptor agonist (with that rank order of functional potency, determined with TRUPATH Gα/βγ biosensors), pretreatment with selective inhibitors of 5-HT2A/2C, 5-HT1B, or 5-HT1A receptors did not block DPT's antiepileptic effects; a pan-serotonin receptor antagonist was also ineffective. Because 5-HT1A receptor activation blocks AGS in Fmr1 knockout mice, we performed a dose-response experiment to evaluate DPT's engagement of 5-HT1A receptors in vivo. DPT elicited 5-HT1A-dependent effects only at doses greater than 10 mg/kg, further supporting that DPT's antiepileptic effects were not 5-HT1A-mediated. We also observed that the selective sigma1 receptor antagonist, NE-100, did not impact DPT's antiepileptic effects, suggesting DPT engagement of sigma1 receptors was not a crucial mechanism. Separately, we observed that DPT and NE-100 at high doses caused convulsions on their own that were qualitatively distinct from AGS. In conclusion, DPT dose-dependently blocked AGS in Fmr1 knockout mice, but neither serotonin nor sigma1 receptor antagonists prevented this action. Thus, DPT might have neurotherapeutic effects independent of its serotonergic psychedelic properties. However, DPT also caused seizures at high doses, showing that DPT has complex dose-dependent in vivo polypharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Tyagi
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Tanishka S. Saraf
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Clinton E. Canal
- Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
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5
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Fragola NR, Brems BM, Mukherjee M, Cui M, Booth RG. Conformationally Selective 2-Aminotetralin Ligands Targeting the alpha2A- and alpha2C-Adrenergic Receptors. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:1884-1895. [PMID: 37104867 PMCID: PMC10628895 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Many important physiological processes are mediated by alpha2A- and alpha2C-adrenergic receptors (α2Rs), a subtype of class A G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). However, α2R signaling is poorly understood, and there are few approved medications targeting these receptors. Drug discovery aimed at α2Rs is complicated by the high degree of binding pocket homology between α2AR and α2CR, which confounds ligand-mediated selective activation or inactivation of signaling associated with a particular subtype. Meanwhile, α2R signaling is complex and it is reported that activating α2AR is beneficial in many clinical contexts, while activating α2CR signaling may be detrimental to these positive effects. Here, we report on a novel 5-substituted-2-aminotetralin (5-SAT) chemotype that, depending on substitution, has diverse pharmacological activities at α2Rs. Certain lead 5-SAT analogues act as partial agonists at α2ARs, while functioning as inverse agonists at α2CRs, a novel pharmacological profile. Leads demonstrate high potency (e.g., EC50 < 2 nM) at the α2AR and α2CRs regarding Gαi-mediated inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). To help understand the molecular basis of 5-SAT α2R multifaceted functional activity, α2AR and α2CR molecular models were built from the crystal structures and 1 μs molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and molecular docking experiments were performed for a lead 5-SAT with α2AR agonist and α2CR inverse agonist activity, i.e., (2S)-5-(2'-fluorophenyl)-N,N-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-amine (FPT), in comparison to the FDA-approved (for opioid withdrawal symptoms) α2AR/α2CR agonist lofexidine. Results reveal several interactions between FPT and α2AR and α2CR amino acids that may impact the functional activity. The computational data in conjunction with experimental in vitro affinity and function results provide information to understand ligand stabilization of functionally distinct GPCR conformations regarding α2AR and α2CRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas R. Fragola
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Brittany M. Brems
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Munmun Mukherjee
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Meng Cui
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Raymond G. Booth
- Center
for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry
& Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 208, Mugar Life Sciences Building, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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6
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Sharghi S, Flunkert S, Daurer M, Rabl R, Chagnaud BP, Leopoldo M, Lacivita E, Hutter-Paier B, Prokesch M. Evaluating the effect of R-Baclofen and LP-211 on autistic behavior of the BTBR and Fmr1-KO mouse models. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1087788. [PMID: 37065917 PMCID: PMC10097904 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1087788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a persistent neurodevelopmental condition characterized by two core behavioral symptoms: impaired social communication and interaction, as well as stereotypic, repetitive behavior. No distinct cause of ASD is known so far; however, excitatory/inhibitory imbalance and a disturbed serotoninergic transmission have been identified as prominent candidates responsible for ASD etiology.MethodsThe GABAB receptor agonist R-Baclofen and the selective agonist for the 5HT7 serotonin receptor LP-211 have been reported to correct social deficits and repetitive behaviors in mouse models of ASD. To evaluate the efficacy of these compounds in more details, we treated BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J and B6.129P2-Fmr1tm1Cgr/J mice acutely with R-Baclofen or LP-211 and evaluated the behavior of animals in a series of tests.ResultsBTBR mice showed motor deficits, elevated anxiety, and highly repetitive behavior of self-grooming. Fmr1-KO mice exhibited decreased anxiety and hyperactivity. Additionally, Fmr1-KO mice’s ultrasonic vocalizations were impaired suggesting a reduced social interest and communication of this strain. Acute LP-211 administration did not affect the behavioral abnormalities observed in BTBR mice but improved repetitive behavior in Fmr1-KO mice and showed a trend to change anxiety of this strain. Acute R-Baclofen treatment improved repetitive behavior only in Fmr1-KO mice.ConclusionOur results add value to the current available data on these mouse models and the respective compounds. Yet, additional studies are needed to further test R-Baclofen and LP-211 as potential treatments for ASD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Sharghi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, QPS Austria GmbH, Grambach, Austria
- Institute for Biology, Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz, Graz, Austria
- *Correspondence: Shirin Sharghi,
| | - Stefanie Flunkert
- Department of Neuropharmacology, QPS Austria GmbH, Grambach, Austria
| | - Magdalena Daurer
- Department of Neuropharmacology, QPS Austria GmbH, Grambach, Austria
| | - Roland Rabl
- Department of Neuropharmacology, QPS Austria GmbH, Grambach, Austria
| | | | - Marcello Leopoldo
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Enza Lacivita
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Prokesch
- Department of Neuropharmacology, QPS Austria GmbH, Grambach, Austria
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Svalina MN, Sullivan R, Restrepo D, Huntsman MM. From circuits to behavior: Amygdala dysfunction in fragile X syndrome. Front Integr Neurosci 2023; 17:1128529. [PMID: 36969493 PMCID: PMC10034113 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2023.1128529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a repeat expansion mutation in the promotor region of the FMR1 gene resulting in transcriptional silencing and loss of function of fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 protein (FMRP). FMRP has a well-defined role in the early development of the brain. Thus, loss of the FMRP has well-known consequences for normal cellular and synaptic development leading to a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders including an increased prevalence of amygdala-based disorders. Despite our detailed understanding of the pathophysiology of FXS, the precise cellular and circuit-level underpinnings of amygdala-based disorders is incompletely understood. In this review, we discuss the development of the amygdala, the role of neuromodulation in the critical period plasticity, and recent advances in our understanding of how synaptic and circuit-level changes in the basolateral amygdala contribute to the behavioral manifestations seen in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N. Svalina
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Regina Sullivan
- Brain Institute, Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY, United States
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Child Study Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Diego Restrepo
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Molly M. Huntsman
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- *Correspondence: Molly M. Huntsman,
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8
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Saraf TS, McGlynn RP, Bhatavdekar OM, Booth RG, Canal CE. FPT, a 2-Aminotetralin, Is a Potent Serotonin 5-HT 1A, 5-HT 1B, and 5-HT 1D Receptor Agonist That Modulates Cortical Electroencephalogram Activity in Adult Fmr1 Knockout Mice. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:3629-3640. [PMID: 36473166 PMCID: PMC10364582 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There are no approved medicines for fragile X syndrome (FXS), a monogenic, neurodevelopmental disorder. Electroencephalogram (EEG) studies show alterations in resting-state cortical EEG spectra, such as increased gamma-band power, in patients with FXS that are also observed in Fmr1 knockout models of FXS, offering putative biomarkers for drug discovery. Genes encoding serotonin receptors (5-HTRs), including 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B, and 5-HT1DRs, are differentially expressed in FXS, providing a rationale for investigating them as pharmacotherapeutic targets. Previously we reported pharmacological activity and preclinical neurotherapeutic effects in Fmr1 knockout mice of an orally active 2-aminotetralin, (S)-5-(2'-fluorophenyl)-N,N-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-amine (FPT). FPT is a potent (low nM), high-efficacy partial agonist at 5-HT1ARs and a potent, low-efficacy partial agonist at 5-HT7Rs. Here we report new observations that FPT also has potent and efficacious agonist activity at human 5-HT1B and 5-HT1DRs. FPT's Ki values at 5-HT1B and 5-HT1DRs were <5 nM, but it had nil activity (>10 μM Ki) at 5-HT1FRs. We tested the effects of FPT (5.6 mg/kg, subcutaneous) on EEG recorded above the somatosensory and auditory cortices in freely moving, adult Fmr1 knockout and control mice. Consistent with previous reports, we observed significantly increased relative gamma power in untreated or vehicle-treated male and female Fmr1 knockout mice from recordings above the left somatosensory cortex (LSSC). In addition, we observed sex effects on EEG power. FPT did not eliminate the genotype difference in relative gamma power from the LSSC. FPT, however, robustly decreased relative alpha power in the LSSC and auditory cortex, with more pronounced effects in Fmr1 KO mice. Similarly, FPT decreased relative alpha power in the right SSC but only in Fmr1 knockout mice. FPT also increased relative delta power, with more pronounced effects in Fmr1 KO mice and caused small but significant increases in relative beta power. Distinct impacts of FPT on cortical EEG were like effects caused by certain FDA-approved psychotropic medications (including baclofen, allopregnanolone, and clozapine). These results advance the understanding of FPT's pharmacological and neurophysiological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanishka S Saraf
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Ryan P McGlynn
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 300 Huntington Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Omkar M Bhatavdekar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Croft Hall B27, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Raymond G Booth
- Center for Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, 300 Huntington Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Clinton E Canal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
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9
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Lim S, Lee S. Chemical Modulators for Targeting Autism Spectrum Disorders: From Bench to Clinic. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27165088. [PMID: 36014340 PMCID: PMC9414776 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by diverse behavioral symptoms such as repetitive behaviors, social deficits, anxiety, hyperactivity, and irritability. Despite their increasing incidence, the specific pathological mechanisms of ASD are still unknown, and the degree and types of symptoms that vary from patient to patient make it difficult to develop drugs that target the core symptoms of ASD. Although various atypical antipsychotics and antidepressants have been applied to regulate ASD symptoms, these drugs can only alleviate the symptoms and do not target the major causes. Therefore, development of novel drugs targeting factors directly related to the onset of ASD is required. Among the various factors related to the onset of ASD, several chemical modulators to treat ASD, focused on serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) and glutamate receptors, microbial metabolites, and inflammatory cytokines, are explored in this study. In particular, we focus on the chemical drugs that have improved various aspects of ASD symptoms in animal models and in clinical trials for various ages of patients with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songhyun Lim
- Creative Research Center for Brain Science, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Sanghee Lee
- Creative Research Center for Brain Science, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Department of HY-KIST Bio-Convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-958-5138
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10
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Zhao F, Zhang H, Wang P, Cui W, Xu K, Chen D, Hu M, Li Z, Geng X, Wei S. Oxytocin and serotonin in the modulation of neural function: Neurobiological underpinnings of autism-related behavior. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:919890. [PMID: 35937893 PMCID: PMC9354980 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.919890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a group of generalized neurodevelopmental disorders. Its main clinical features are social communication disorder and repetitive stereotyped behavioral interest. The abnormal structure and function of brain network is the basis of social dysfunction and stereotyped performance in patients with autism spectrum disorder. The number of patients diagnosed with ASD has increased year by year, but there is a lack of effective intervention and treatment. Oxytocin has been revealed to effectively improve social cognitive function and significantly improve the social information processing ability, empathy ability and social communication ability of ASD patients. The change of serotonin level also been reported affecting the development of brain and causes ASD-like behavioral abnormalities, such as anxiety, depression like behavior, stereotyped behavior. Present review will focus on the research progress of serotonin and oxytocin in the pathogenesis, brain circuit changes and treatment of autism. Revealing the regulatory effect and neural mechanism of serotonin and oxytocin on patients with ASD is not only conducive to a deeper comprehension of the pathogenesis of ASD, but also has vital clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhao
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- TAIYUE Postdoctoral Innovation and Practice Base, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- TAIYUE Postdoctoral Innovation and Practice Base, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjie Cui
- Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kaiyong Xu
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Minghui Hu
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- TAIYUE Postdoctoral Innovation and Practice Base, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zifa Li
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- TAIYUE Postdoctoral Innovation and Practice Base, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Zifa Li,
| | - Xiwen Geng
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- TAIYUE Postdoctoral Innovation and Practice Base, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Xiwen Geng,
| | - Sheng Wei
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classical Theory, Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- TAIYUE Postdoctoral Innovation and Practice Base, Jinan, China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Core Facility, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Sheng Wei,
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11
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Serotonin Receptors as Therapeutic Targets for Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126515. [PMID: 35742963 PMCID: PMC9223717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by repetitive and stereotyped behaviors as well as difficulties with social interaction and communication. According to reports for prevalence rates of ASD, approximately 1~2% of children worldwide have been diagnosed with ASD. Although there are a couple of FDA (Food and Drug Administration)—approved drugs for ASD treatment such as aripiprazole and risperidone, they are efficient for alleviating aggression, hyperactivity, and self-injury but not the core symptoms. Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) as a neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in the early neurodevelopmental stage. In particular, 5-HT has been known to regulate a variety of neurobiological processes including neurite outgrowth, dendritic spine morphology, shaping neuronal circuits, synaptic transmission, and synaptic plasticity. Given the roles of serotonergic systems, the 5-HT receptors (5-HTRs) become emerging as potential therapeutic targets in the ASD. In this review, we will focus on the recent development of small molecule modulators of 5-HTRs as therapeutic targets for the ASD treatment.
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12
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Armstrong JL, Saraf TS, Bhatavdekar O, Canal CE. Spontaneous seizures in adult Fmr1 knockout mice: FVB.129P2-Pde6b+ Tyr Fmr1/J. Epilepsy Res 2022; 182:106891. [PMID: 35290907 PMCID: PMC9050957 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of seizures in individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS) is ~25%; however, there are no reports of spontaneous seizures in the Fmr1 knockout mouse model of FXS. Herein, we report that 48% of adult (median age P96), Fmr1 knockout mice from our colony were found expired in their home cages. We observed and recorded adult Fmr1 knockout mice having spontaneous convulsions in their home cages. In addition, we captured by electroencephalography an adult Fmr1 knockout mouse having a spontaneous seizure-during preictal, ictal, and postictal phases-which confirmed the presence of a generalized seizure. We did not observe this phenotype in control conspecifics or in juvenile (age <P35) Fmr1 knockout mice. We hypothesized that chronic, random, noise perturbations during development caused the phenotype. We recorded decibels (dB) in our vivarium. The average was 61 dB, but operating the automatic door to the vivarium caused spikes to 95 dB. We modified the door to eliminate noise spikes, which reduced unexpected deaths to 33% in Fmr1 knockout mice raised from birth in this environment (P = 0.07). As the modifications did not eliminate unexpected deaths, we further hypothesized that building vibrations may also be a contributing factor. After installing anti-vibration pads underneath housing carts, unexpected deaths of Fmr1 knockout mice born and raised in this environment decreased to 29% (P < 0.01 compared to the original environment). We also observed significant sex effects, for example, after interventions to reduce sound and vibration, significantly fewer male, but not female, Fmr1 knockout mice died unexpectedly (P < 0.001). The spontaneous seizure phenotype in our Fmr1 knockout mice could serve as a model of seizures observed in individuals with FXS, potentially offering a new translationally-valid phenotype for FXS research. Finally, these observations, although anomalous, serve as a reminder to consider gene-environment interactions when interpreting data derived from Fmr1 knockout mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Armstrong
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Tanishka S Saraf
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Omkar Bhatavdekar
- Johns Hopkins University, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, 3400 North Charles Street, Croft Hall B27, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Clinton E Canal
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
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13
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Penna E, Niso M, Podlewska S, Volpicelli F, Crispino M, Perrone-Capano C, Bojarski AJ, Lacivita E, Leopoldo M. In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of the Residence Time of Serotonin 5-HT 7 Receptor Ligands with Arylpiperazine Structure: A Structure-Kinetics Relationship Study. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:497-509. [PMID: 35099177 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last decade, the kinetics of drug-target interaction has received increasing attention as an important pharmacological parameter in the drug development process. Several studies have suggested that the lipophilicity of a molecule can play an important role. To date, this aspect has been studied for several G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) ligands but not for the 5-HT7 receptor (5-HT7R), a GPCR proposed as a valid therapeutic target in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders associated with abnormal neuronal connectivity. In this study, we report on structure-kinetics relationships of a set of arylpiperazine-based 5-HT7R ligands. We found that it is not the overall lipophilicity of the molecule that influences drug-target interaction kinetics but rather the position of polar groups within the molecule. Next, we performed a combination of molecular docking studies and molecular dynamics simulations to gain insights into structure-kinetics relationships. These studies did not suggest specific contact patterns between the ligands and the receptor-binding site as determinants for compounds kinetics. Finally, we compared the abilities of two 5-HT7R agonists with similar receptor-binding affinities and different residence times to stimulate the 5-HT7R-mediated neurite outgrowth in mouse neuronal primary cultures and found that the compounds induced the effect with different timing. This study provides the first insights into the binding kinetics of arylpiperazine-based 5-HT7R ligands that can be helpful to design new 5-HT7R ligands with fine-tuning of the kinetic profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Penna
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 26, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Biofordrug srl, via Dante 99, 70019 Triggiano (Bari), Italy
| | - Mauro Niso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Sabina Podlewska
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Floriana Volpicelli
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marianna Crispino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, via Cintia 26, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Carla Perrone-Capano
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, via Domenico Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “Adriano Buzzati Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR), via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Andrzej J. Bojarski
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna Street, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
| | - Enza Lacivita
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Marcello Leopoldo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
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14
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Canal CE, Leopoldo M. The Need To Improve Reporting of the Pharmacological Action of New Molecules. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:185-186. [PMID: 34989567 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular characterization of bioactive molecules, for example, small molecules targeting G-protein-coupled receptors, is evolving in complexity, impacting the meaning of terms like "agonist", "antagonist", and "selective", which, in the absence of detailed definitions and scientific consensus, can be sources of confusion in the literature. We discuss this issue and offer straightforward solutions to it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clinton E. Canal
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mercer University, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, United States
| | - Marcello Leopoldo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
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15
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Lee J, Avramets D, Jeon B, Choo H. Modulation of Serotonin Receptors in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Focus on 5-HT7 Receptor. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113348. [PMID: 34199418 PMCID: PMC8199608 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) influence more than 3% of children worldwide, there has been intense investigation to understand the etiology of disorders and develop treatments. Although there are drugs such as aripiprazole, risperidone, and lurasidone, these medications are not cures for the disorders and can only help people feel better or alleviate their symptoms. Thus, it is required to discover therapeutic targets in order to find the ultimate treatments of neurodevelopmental disorders. It is suggested that abnormal neuronal morphology in the neurodevelopment process is a main cause of NDDs, in which the serotonergic system is emerging as playing a crucial role. From this point of view, we noticed the correlation between serotonin receptor subtype 7 (5-HT7R) and NDDs including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fragile X syndrome (FXS), and Rett syndrome (RTT). 5-HT7R modulators improved altered behaviors in animal models and also affected neuronal morphology via the 5-HT7R/G12 signaling pathway. Through the investigation of recent studies, it is suggested that 5-HT7R could be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieon Lee
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Diana Avramets
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Byungsun Jeon
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Correspondence: (B.J.); (H.C.); Tel.: +82-2-958-5191 (B.J.); +82-2-958-5157 (H.C.)
| | - Hyunah Choo
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02792, Korea; (J.L.); (D.A.)
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Correspondence: (B.J.); (H.C.); Tel.: +82-2-958-5191 (B.J.); +82-2-958-5157 (H.C.)
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16
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Evaluation of lorcaserin as an anticonvulsant in juvenile Fmr1 knockout mice. Epilepsy Res 2021; 175:106677. [PMID: 34130255 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2021.106677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent preclinical and clinical studies suggest that lorcaserin, a preferential serotonin 2C receptor (5-HT2CR) agonist that was approved for the treatment of obesity, possesses antiepileptic properties. Here, we tested whether lorcaserin (1, 3, 5.6, 10 mg/kg) is prophylactic against audiogenic seizures (AGSs) in juvenile Fmr1 knockout mice, a mouse model of fragile X syndrome (FXS). MPEP (30 mg/kg), a non-competitive mGluR5 receptor antagonist, was used as a positive control. As lorcaserin likely engages 5-HT2ARs at therapeutic doses, we pretreated one group of mice with the selective 5-HT2AR antagonist/inverse agonist, M100907 (0.03 mg/kg), alone or before administering lorcaserin (5.6 mg/kg), to discern putative contributions of 5-HT2ARs to AGSs. We also assessed lorcaserin's in vitro pharmacology at human (h) and mouse (m) 5-HT2CRs and 5-HT2ARs and its in vivo interactions at m5-HT2CRs and m5-HT2ARs. MPEP significantly decreased AGS prevalence (P = 0.011) and lethality (P = 0.038). Lorcaserin, 3 mg/kg, attenuated AGS prevalence and lethality by 14 % and 32 %, respectively, however, results were not statistically significant (P = 0.5 and P = 0.06); other doses and M100907 alone or with lorcaserin also did not significantly affect AGSs. Lorcaserin exhibited full efficacy agonist activity at h5-HT2CRs and m5-HT2CRs, and near full efficacy agonist activity at h5-HT2ARs and m5-HT2ARs; selectivity for activation of 5-HT2CRs over 5-HT2ARs was greater for human (38-fold) compared to mouse (13-fold) receptors. Lorcaserin displayed relatively low affinities at antagonist-labeled 5-HT2CRs and 5-HT2ARs, regardless of species. Lorcaserin (3 and 5.6 mg/kg) increased the 5-HT2AR-dependent head-twitch response (HTR) elicited by (±)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) in mice (P = 0.03 and P = 0.02). At 3 mg/kg, lorcaserin alone did not elicit an HTR. If mice were treated with the selective 5-HT2CR antagonist SB 242084 (0.5 or 1 mg/kg) plus lorcaserin (3 mg/kg), a significantly increased HTR was observed, relative to vehicle (P = 0.01 and P = 0.03), however, the HTR was much lower than what was elicited by DOI or DOI plus lorcaserin. Lorcaserin, 3 mg/kg, significantly reduced locomotor activity on its own, an effect reversed by SB 242084, and lorcaserin also dose-dependently reduced locomotor activity when administered prior to DOI (Ps<0.002). These data suggest that lorcaserin may engage 5-HT2CRs as well as 5-HT2ARs in mice at doses as low as 3 mg/kg. The similar activity at m5-HT2CRs and m5-HT2ARs suggests careful dosing of lorcaserin is necessary to selectively engage 5-HT2CRs in vivo. In conclusion, lorcaserin was ineffective at preventing AGSs in Fmr1 knockout mice. Lorcaserin may not be a suitable pharmacotherapy for seizures in FXS.
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17
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Lacivita E, Niso M, Mastromarino M, Garcia Silva A, Resch C, Zeug A, Loza MI, Castro M, Ponimaskin E, Leopoldo M. Knowledge-Based Design of Long-Chain Arylpiperazine Derivatives Targeting Multiple Serotonin Receptors as Potential Candidates for Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:1313-1327. [PMID: 33792287 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by core symptoms such as impaired social interaction and communication, repetitive and stereotyped behaviors, and restricted interests. To date, there are no effective treatments for these core symptoms. Several studies have shown that the brain serotonin (5-HT) neurotransmission system is altered in both ASD patients and animal models of the disease. Multiple pieces of evidence suggest that targeting 5-HT receptors may treat the core symptoms of ASD and associated intellectual disabilities. In fact, stimulation of the 5-HT1A receptor reduces repetitive and restricted behaviors; blockade of the 5-HT2A receptor reduces both learning deficits and repetitive behavior, and activation of the 5-HT7 receptor improves cognitive performances and reduces repetitive behavior. On such a basis, we have designed novel arylpiperazine derivatives pursuing unprecedently reported activity profiles: dual 5-HT7/5-HT1A receptor agonist properties and mixed 5-HT7 agonist/5-HT1A agonist/5-HT2A antagonist properties. Seventeen new compounds were synthesized and tested in radioligand binding assay at the target receptors. We have identified the dual 5-HT1AR/5-HT7R agonists 8c and 29 and the mixed 5-HT1AR agonist/5-HT7R agonist/5-HT2AR antagonist 20b. These compounds are metabolically stable in vitro and have suitable central nervous system druglike properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enza Lacivita
- Dipartimento di Farmacia−Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Mauro Niso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia−Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Margherita Mastromarino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia−Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Garcia Silva
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS). Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Avda. de Barcelona, s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Cibell Resch
- Cellular Neurophysiology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Andre Zeug
- Cellular Neurophysiology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - María I. Loza
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS). Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Avda. de Barcelona, s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Marián Castro
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS). Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. Avda. de Barcelona, s/n, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Evgeni Ponimaskin
- Cellular Neurophysiology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Marcello Leopoldo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia−Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
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