1
|
Kubyshkin V, Rubini M. Proline Analogues. Chem Rev 2024; 124:8130-8232. [PMID: 38941181 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.4c00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Within the canonical repertoire of the amino acid involved in protein biogenesis, proline plays a unique role as an amino acid presenting a modified backbone rather than a side-chain. Chemical structures that mimic proline but introduce changes into its specific molecular features are defined as proline analogues. This review article summarizes the existing chemical, physicochemical, and biochemical knowledge about this peculiar family of structures. We group proline analogues from the following compounds: substituted prolines, unsaturated and fused structures, ring size homologues, heterocyclic, e.g., pseudoproline, and bridged proline-resembling structures. We overview (1) the occurrence of proline analogues in nature and their chemical synthesis, (2) physicochemical properties including ring conformation and cis/trans amide isomerization, (3) use in commercial drugs such as nirmatrelvir recently approved against COVID-19, (4) peptide and protein synthesis involving proline analogues, (5) specific opportunities created in peptide engineering, and (6) cases of protein engineering with the analogues. The review aims to provide a summary to anyone interested in using proline analogues in systems ranging from specific biochemical setups to complex biological systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Rubini
- School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cliff CL, Williams BM, Chadjichristos CE, Mouritzen U, Squires PE, Hills CE. Connexin 43: A Target for the Treatment of Inflammation in Secondary Complications of the Kidney and Eye in Diabetes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:600. [PMID: 35054783 PMCID: PMC8776095 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Of increasing prevalence, diabetes is characterised by elevated blood glucose and chronic inflammation that precedes the onset of multiple secondary complications, including those of the kidney and the eye. As the leading cause of end stage renal disease and blindness in the working population, more than ever is there a demand to develop clinical interventions which can both delay and prevent disease progression. Connexins are membrane bound proteins that can form pores (hemichannels) in the cell membrane. Gated by cellular stress and injury, they open under pathophysiological conditions and in doing so release 'danger signals' including adenosine triphosphate into the extracellular environment. Linked to sterile inflammation via activation of the nod-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome, targeting aberrant hemichannel activity and the release of these danger signals has met with favourable outcomes in multiple models of disease, including secondary complications of diabetes. In this review, we provide a comprehensive update on those studies which document a role for aberrant connexin hemichannel activity in the pathogenesis of both diabetic eye and kidney disease, ahead of evaluating the efficacy of blocking connexin-43 specific hemichannels in these target tissues on tissue health and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chelsy L. Cliff
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Bethany M. Williams
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Christos E. Chadjichristos
- National Institutes for Health and Medical Research, UMR-S1155, Batiment Recherche, Tenon Hospital, 4 Rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France;
| | - Ulrik Mouritzen
- Ciana Therapeutics, Ole Maaloes Vej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark;
| | - Paul E. Squires
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| | - Claire E. Hills
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Life, Sciences University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (C.L.C.); (B.M.W.); (P.E.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang K, Chai B, Ji H, Chen L, Ma Y, Zhu L, Xu J, Wu Y, Lan Y, Li H, Feng Z, Xiao J, Zhang H, Xu K. Bioglass promotes wound healing by inhibiting endothelial cell pyroptosis through regulation of the connexin 43/reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling pathway. J Transl Med 2022; 102:90-101. [PMID: 34521991 DOI: 10.1038/s41374-021-00675-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioactive glass (BG) has recently shown great promise in soft tissue repair, especially in wound healing; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Pyroptosis is a novel type of programmed cell death that is involved in various traumatic injury diseases. Here, we hypothesized that BG may promote wound healing through suppression of pyroptosis. To test this scenario, we investigated the possible effect of BG on pyroptosis in wound healing both in vivo and in vitro. This study showed that BG can accelerate wound closure, granulation formation, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. Moreover, western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining revealed that BG inhibited the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins in vivo and in vitro. In addition, while BG regulated the expression of connexin43 (Cx43), it inhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Cx43 activation and inhibition experiments further indicate that BG inhibited pyroptosis in endothelial cells by decreasing Cx43 expression and ROS levels. Taken together, these studies suggest that BG promotes wound healing by inhibiting pyroptosis via Cx43/ROS signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kailun Zhang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang province for pharmaceutical development of growth factors, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Bo Chai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Wound Repair and Regeneration Key Laboratory, Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao Ji
- Institute of Life Sciences, Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang province for pharmaceutical development of growth factors, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liuqing Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang province for pharmaceutical development of growth factors, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanbing Ma
- Institute of Life Sciences, Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang province for pharmaceutical development of growth factors, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lifei Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Wound Repair and Regeneration Key Laboratory, Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingyu Xu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang province for pharmaceutical development of growth factors, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanqing Wu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang province for pharmaceutical development of growth factors, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinan Lan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Lishui Central Hospital, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, Lishui People's Hospital, The sixth affiliated hospital of Wenzhou medical university, Lishui, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhiguo Feng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Wound Repair and Regeneration Key Laboratory, Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Wound Repair and Regeneration Key Laboratory, Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Hongyu Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Wound Repair and Regeneration Key Laboratory, Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Ke Xu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Engineering Laboratory of Zhejiang province for pharmaceutical development of growth factors, Biomedical Collaborative Innovation Center of Wenzhou, Wenzhou University, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jost N, Christ T, Magyar J. New Strategies for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14090926. [PMID: 34577626 PMCID: PMC8466466 DOI: 10.3390/ph14090926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia in the clinical practice. It significantly contributes to the morbidity and mortality of the elderly population. Over the past 25-30 years intense effort in basic research has advanced the understanding of the relationship between the pathophysiology of AF and atrial remodelling. Nowadays it is clear that the various forms of atrial remodelling (electrical, contractile and structural) play crucial role in initiating and maintaining the persistent and permanent types of AF. Unlike in ventricular fibrillation, in AF rapid ectopic firing originating from pulmonary veins and re-entry mechanism may induce and maintain (due to atrial remodelling) this complex cardiac arrhythmia. The present review presents and discusses in detail the latest knowledge on the role of remodelling in AF. Special attention is paid to novel concepts and pharmacological targets presumably relevant to the drug treatment of atrial fibrillation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Jost
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- ELKH-SZTE Research Group for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence:
| | - Torsten Christ
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - János Magyar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Department of Sport Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chowdhury RA, Debney MT, Protti A, Handa BS, Patel KHK, Lyon AR, Shah AM, Ng FS, Peters NS. Rotigaptide Infusion for the First 7 Days After Myocardial Infarction-Reperfusion Reduced Late Complexity of Myocardial Architecture of the Healing Border-Zone and Arrhythmia Inducibility. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e020006. [PMID: 33870715 PMCID: PMC8200720 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.020006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Survivors of myocardial infarction are at increased risk of late ventricular arrhythmias, with infarct size and scar heterogeneity being key determinants of arrhythmic risk. Gap junctions facilitate the passage of small ions and morphogenic cell signaling between myocytes. We hypothesized that gap junctions enhancement during infarction–reperfusion modulates structural and electrophysiological remodeling and reduces late arrhythmogenesis. Methods and Results Infarction–reperfusion surgery was carried out in male Sprague‐Dawley rats followed by 7 days of rotigaptide or saline administration. The in vivo and ex vivo arrhythmogenicity was characterized by programmed electrical stimulation 3 weeks later, followed by diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging and Masson's trichrome histology. Three weeks after 7‐day postinfarction administration of rotigaptide, ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation was induced on programmed electrical stimulation in 20% and 53% of rats, respectively (rotigaptide versus control), resulting in reduction of arrhythmia score (3.2 versus 1.4, P=0.018), associated with the reduced magnetic resonance imaging parameters fractional anisotropy (fractional anisotropy: −5% versus −15%; P=0.062) and mean diffusivity (mean diffusivity: 2% versus 6%, P=0.042), and remodeling of the 3‐dimensional laminar structure of the infarct border zone with reduction of the mean (16° versus 19°, P=0.013) and the dispersion (9° versus 12°, P=0.015) of the myofiber transverse angle. There was no change in ECG features, spontaneous arrhythmias, or mortality. Conclusions Enhancement of gap junctions function by rotigaptide administered during the early healing phase in reperfused infarction reduces later complexity of infarct scar morphology and programmed electrical stimulation–induced arrhythmias, and merits further exploration as a feasible and practicable intervention in the acute myocardial infarction management to reduce late arrhythmic risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rasheda A Chowdhury
- National Heart & Lung Institute and ElectroCardioMaths Programme of the Imperial Centre for Cardiac EngineeringImperial College London London United Kingdom
| | - Michael T Debney
- National Heart & Lung Institute and ElectroCardioMaths Programme of the Imperial Centre for Cardiac EngineeringImperial College London London United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Protti
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre School of Cardiovascular Medicine and Sciences Kings College London London United Kingdom
| | - Balvinder S Handa
- National Heart & Lung Institute and ElectroCardioMaths Programme of the Imperial Centre for Cardiac EngineeringImperial College London London United Kingdom
| | - Kiran H K Patel
- National Heart & Lung Institute and ElectroCardioMaths Programme of the Imperial Centre for Cardiac EngineeringImperial College London London United Kingdom
| | - Alexander R Lyon
- National Heart & Lung Institute and ElectroCardioMaths Programme of the Imperial Centre for Cardiac EngineeringImperial College London London United Kingdom
| | - Ajay M Shah
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre School of Cardiovascular Medicine and Sciences Kings College London London United Kingdom
| | - Fu Siong Ng
- National Heart & Lung Institute and ElectroCardioMaths Programme of the Imperial Centre for Cardiac EngineeringImperial College London London United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas S Peters
- National Heart & Lung Institute and ElectroCardioMaths Programme of the Imperial Centre for Cardiac EngineeringImperial College London London United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
González-Casanova J, Schmachtenberg O, Martínez AD, Sanchez HA, Harcha PA, Rojas-Gomez D. An Update on Connexin Gap Junction and Hemichannels in Diabetic Retinopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063194. [PMID: 33801118 PMCID: PMC8004116 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the main causes of vision loss in the working age population. It is characterized by a progressive deterioration of the retinal microvasculature, caused by long-term metabolic alterations inherent to diabetes, leading to a progressive loss of retinal integrity and function. The mammalian retina presents an orderly layered structure that executes initial but complex visual processing and analysis. Gap junction channels (GJC) forming electrical synapses are present in each retinal layer and contribute to the communication between different cell types. In addition, connexin hemichannels (HCs) have emerged as relevant players that influence diverse physiological and pathological processes in the retina. This article highlights the impact of diabetic conditions on GJC and HCs physiology and their involvement in DR pathogenesis. Microvascular damage and concomitant loss of endothelial cells and pericytes are related to alterations in gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and decreased connexin 43 (Cx43) expression. On the other hand, it has been shown that the expression and activity of HCs are upregulated in DR, becoming a key element in the establishment of proinflammatory conditions that emerge during hyperglycemia. Hence, novel connexin HCs blockers or drugs to enhance GJIC are promising tools for the development of pharmacological interventions for diabetic retinopathy, and initial in vitro and in vivo studies have shown favorable results in this regard.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge González-Casanova
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago 8910060, Chile;
| | - Oliver Schmachtenberg
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile;
| | - Agustín D. Martínez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (A.D.M.); (H.A.S.); (P.A.H.)
| | - Helmuth A. Sanchez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (A.D.M.); (H.A.S.); (P.A.H.)
| | - Paloma A. Harcha
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2360102, Chile; (A.D.M.); (H.A.S.); (P.A.H.)
| | - Diana Rojas-Gomez
- Escuela de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370146, Chile
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-2-26618559
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Squires PE, Price GW, Mouritzen U, Potter JA, Williams BM, Hills CE. Danegaptide Prevents TGFβ1-Induced Damage in Human Proximal Tubule Epithelial Cells of the Kidney. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2809. [PMID: 33802083 PMCID: PMC7999212 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem associated with a number of comorbidities. Recent evidence implicates increased hemichannel-mediated release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the progression of tubulointerstitial fibrosis, the main underlying pathology of CKD. Here, we evaluate the effect of danegaptide on blocking hemichannel-mediated changes in the expression and function of proteins associated with disease progression in tubular epithelial kidney cells. Primary human proximal tubule epithelial cells (hPTECs) were treated with the beta1 isoform of the pro-fibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor (TGFβ1) ± danegaptide. qRT-PCR and immunoblotting confirmed mRNA and protein expression, whilst a cytokine antibody array assessed the expression/secretion of proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines. Carboxyfluorescein dye uptake and ATP biosensing measured hemichannel activity and ATP release, whilst transepithelial electrical resistance was used to assess paracellular permeability. Danegaptide negated carboxyfluorescein dye uptake and ATP release and protected against protein changes associated with tubular injury. Blocking Cx43-mediated ATP release was paralleled by partial restoration of the expression of cell cycle inhibitors, adherens and tight junction proteins and decreased paracellular permeability. Furthermore, danegaptide inhibited TGFβ1-induced changes in the expression and secretion of key adipokines, cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and interleukins. The data suggest that as a gap junction modulator and hemichannel blocker, danegaptide has potential in the future treatment of CKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul E. Squires
- School of Life Sciences, Joseph Banks Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (P.E.S.); (G.W.P.); (J.A.P.); (B.M.W.)
| | - Gareth W. Price
- School of Life Sciences, Joseph Banks Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (P.E.S.); (G.W.P.); (J.A.P.); (B.M.W.)
| | - Ulrik Mouritzen
- Ciana Therapeutics, Ved Hegnet 2, 2960 Rungsted Kyst, Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Joe A. Potter
- School of Life Sciences, Joseph Banks Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (P.E.S.); (G.W.P.); (J.A.P.); (B.M.W.)
| | - Bethany M. Williams
- School of Life Sciences, Joseph Banks Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (P.E.S.); (G.W.P.); (J.A.P.); (B.M.W.)
| | - Claire E. Hills
- School of Life Sciences, Joseph Banks Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7DL, UK; (P.E.S.); (G.W.P.); (J.A.P.); (B.M.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gap-134, a Connexin43 activator, prevents age-related development of ventricular fibrosis in Scn5a +/- mice. Pharmacol Res 2020; 159:104922. [PMID: 32464326 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Down-regulation of Connexin43 (Cx43) has often been associated with the development of cardiac fibrosis. We showed previously that Scn5a heterozygous knockout mice (Scn5a+/-), which mimic familial progressive cardiac conduction defect, exhibit an age-dependent decrease of Cx43 expression and phosphorylation concomitantly with activation of TGF-β pathway and fibrosis development in the myocardium between 45 and 60 weeks of age. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Gap-134 prevents Cx43 down-regulation with age and fibrosis development in Scn5a+/- mice. We observed in 60-week-old Scn5a+/- mouse heart a Cx43 expression and localization remodeling correlated with fibrosis. Chronic administration of a potent and selective gap junction modifier, Gap-134 (danegaptide), between 45 and 60 weeks, increased Cx43 expression and phosphorylation on serine 368 and prevented Cx43 delocalization. Furthermore, we found that Gap-134 prevented fibrosis despite the persistence of the conduction defects and the TGF-β canonical pathway activation. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that the age-dependent decrease of Cx43 expression is involved in the ventricular fibrotic process occurring in Scn5a+/- mice. Finally, our study suggests that gap junction modifier, such as Gap-134, could be an effective anti-fibrotic agent in the context of age-dependent fibrosis in progressive cardiac conduction disease.
Collapse
|
9
|
Giaume C, Naus CC, Sáez JC, Leybaert L. Glial Connexins and Pannexins in the Healthy and Diseased Brain. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:93-145. [PMID: 32326824 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00043.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past several decades a large amount of data have established that glial cells, the main cell population in the brain, dynamically interact with neurons and thus impact their activity and survival. One typical feature of glia is their marked expression of several connexins, the membrane proteins forming intercellular gap junction channels and hemichannels. Pannexins, which have a tetraspan membrane topology as connexins, are also detected in glial cells. Here, we review the evidence that connexin and pannexin channels are actively involved in dynamic and metabolic neuroglial interactions in physiological as well as in pathological situations. These features of neuroglial interactions open the way to identify novel non-neuronal aspects that allow for a better understanding of behavior and information processing performed by neurons. This will also complement the "neurocentric" view by facilitating the development of glia-targeted therapeutic strategies in brain disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Giaume
- Collège de France, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB)/Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7241/Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Paris, France; University Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France; MEMOLIFE Laboratory of Excellence and Paris Science Lettre Research University, Paris, France; Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Instituo de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile; Physiology Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian C Naus
- Collège de France, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB)/Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7241/Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Paris, France; University Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France; MEMOLIFE Laboratory of Excellence and Paris Science Lettre Research University, Paris, France; Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Instituo de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile; Physiology Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Juan C Sáez
- Collège de France, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB)/Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7241/Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Paris, France; University Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France; MEMOLIFE Laboratory of Excellence and Paris Science Lettre Research University, Paris, France; Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Instituo de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile; Physiology Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Collège de France, Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB)/Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7241/Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1050, Paris, France; University Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris, France; MEMOLIFE Laboratory of Excellence and Paris Science Lettre Research University, Paris, France; Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Departamento de Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile; Instituo de Neurociencias, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile; Physiology Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Danegaptide Enhances Astrocyte Gap Junctional Coupling and Reduces Ischemic Reperfusion Brain Injury in Mice. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10030353. [PMID: 32110860 PMCID: PMC7175267 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a complex and devastating event characterized by cell death resulting from a transient or permanent arterial occlusion. Astrocytic connexin43 (Cx43) gap junction (GJ) proteins have been reported to impact neuronal survival in ischemic conditions. Consequently, Cx43 could be a potential target for therapeutic approaches to stroke. We examined the effect of danegaptide (ZP1609), an antiarrhythmic dipeptide that specifically enhances GJ conductance, in two different rodent stroke models. In this study, danegaptide increased astrocytic Cx43 coupling with no significant effects on Cx43 hemichannel activity, in vitro. Using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI IMS) the presence of danegaptide within brain tissue sections were detected one hour after reperfusion indicating successful transport of the dipeptide across the blood brain barrier. Furthermore, administration of danegaptide in a novel mouse brain ischemia/reperfusion model showed significant decrease in infarct volume. Taken together, this study provides evidence for the therapeutic potential of danegaptide in ischemia/reperfusion stroke.
Collapse
|
11
|
Oleaga C, Jalilvand G, Legters G, Martin C, Ekman G, McAleer CW, Long CJ, Hickman JJ. A human in vitro platform for the evaluation of pharmacology strategies in cardiac ischemia. APL Bioeng 2019; 3:036103. [PMID: 31431939 PMCID: PMC6692160 DOI: 10.1063/1.5089237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac ischemic events increase the risk for arrhythmia, heart attack, heart failure, and death and are the leading mortality condition globally. Reperfusion therapy is the first line of treatment for this condition, and although it significantly reduces mortality, cardiac ischemia remains a significant threat. New therapeutic strategies are under investigation to improve the ischemia survival rate; however, the current preclinical models to validate these fail to predict the human outcome. We report the development of a functional human cardiac in vitro system for the study of conduction velocity under ischemic conditions. The system is a bioMEMs platform formed by human iPSC derived cardiomyocytes patterned on microelectrode arrays and maintained in serum-free conditions. Electrical activity changes of conduction velocity, beat frequency, and QT interval (the QT-interval measures the period from onset of depolarization to the completion of repolarization) or action potential length can be evaluated over time and under the stress of ischemia. The optimized protocol induces >80% reduction in conduction velocity, after a 4 h depletion period, and a partial recovery after 72 h of oxygen and nutrient reintroduction. The sensitivity of the platform for pharmacological interventions was challenged with a gap junction modulator (ZP1609), known to prevent or delay the depression of conduction velocity induced by ischemic metabolic stress. ZP1609 significantly improved the drastic drop in conduction velocity and enabled a greater recovery. This model represents a new preclinical platform for studying cardiac ischemia with human cells, which does not rely on biomarker analysis and has the potential for screening novel cardioprotective drugs with readouts that are closer to the measured clinical parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlota Oleaga
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway Suite 400, Orlando, Florida 32826, USA
| | - Golareh Jalilvand
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway Suite 400, Orlando, Florida 32826, USA
| | - Gregg Legters
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway Suite 400, Orlando, Florida 32826, USA
| | - Candace Martin
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway Suite 400, Orlando, Florida 32826, USA
| | - Gail Ekman
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway Suite 400, Orlando, Florida 32826, USA
| | | | | | - James J. Hickman
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:. Tel.: +1 407-823-1925
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang JSH, Freitas-Andrade M, Bechberger JF, Naus CC, Yeung KKC, Whitehead SN. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry of intraperitoneally injected danegaptide (ZP1609) for treatment of stroke-reperfusion injury in mice. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2018; 32:951-958. [PMID: 29575411 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.8115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE This work focuses on direct matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) detection of intraperitoneally (IP)-injected dipeptide ZP1609 in mouse brain tissue. Direct analysis of drug detection in intact tissue sections provides distribution information that can impact drug development. MALDI-IMS capabilities of uncovering drug transport across the blood-brain barrier are demonstrated. METHODS Successful peptide detection using MALDI-IMS was achieved using a MALDI TOF/TOF system. Upon optimization of sample preparation procedures for dipeptide ZP1609, an additional tissue acidification procedure was found to greatly enhance signal detection. The imaging data acquired was able to determine successful transport of ZP1609 across the blood-brain barrier. Data obtained from MALDI-IMS can help shape our understanding of biological functions, disease progression, and effects of drug delivery. RESULTS Direct detection of ZP1609 throughout the brain tissue sections was observed from MALDI-MS images. However, in cases where there was induction of stroke, a peak of lower signal intensity was also detected in the target m/z region. Although distinct differences in signal intensity can be seen between control and experimental groups, fragments and adducts of ZP1609 were investigated using MALDI-IMS to verify detection of the target analyte. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the data reveals successful penetration of ZP1609 across the blood-brain barrier. The benefits of tissue acidification in the enhancement of detection sensitivity for low-abundance peptides were demonstrated. MALDI-IMS has been shown to be a useful technique in the direct detection of drugs within intact brain tissue sections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine S H Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada, N6A 5B7 and N6A 5C1
- Vulnerable Brain Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada, N6A 5C1
| | - Moises Freitas-Andrade
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - John F Bechberger
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Ken K-C Yeung
- Department of Chemistry and Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada, N6A 5B7 and N6A 5C1
| | - Shawn N Whitehead
- Vulnerable Brain Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada, N6A 5C1
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Willebrords J, Maes M, Crespo Yanguas S, Vinken M. Inhibitors of connexin and pannexin channels as potential therapeutics. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 180:144-160. [PMID: 28720428 PMCID: PMC5802387 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
While gap junctions support the exchange of a number of molecules between neighboring cells, connexin hemichannels provide communication between the cytosol and the extracellular environment of an individual cell. The latter equally holds true for channels composed of pannexin proteins, which display an architecture reminiscent of connexin hemichannels. In physiological conditions, gap junctions are usually open, while connexin hemichannels and, to a lesser extent, pannexin channels are typically closed, yet they can be activated by a number of pathological triggers. Several agents are available to inhibit channels built up by connexin and pannexin proteins, including alcoholic substances, glycyrrhetinic acid, anesthetics and fatty acids. These compounds not always strictly distinguish between gap junctions, connexin hemichannels and pannexin channels, and may have effects on other targets as well. An exception lies with mimetic peptides, which reproduce specific amino acid sequences in connexin or pannexin primary protein structure. In this paper, a state-of-the-art overview is provided on inhibitors of cellular channels consisting of connexins and pannexins with specific focus on their mode-of-action and therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joost Willebrords
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michaël Maes
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sara Crespo Yanguas
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Vinken
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-cosmetology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Leybaert L, Lampe PD, Dhein S, Kwak BR, Ferdinandy P, Beyer EC, Laird DW, Naus CC, Green CR, Schulz R. Connexins in Cardiovascular and Neurovascular Health and Disease: Pharmacological Implications. Pharmacol Rev 2017; 69:396-478. [PMID: 28931622 PMCID: PMC5612248 DOI: 10.1124/pr.115.012062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins are ubiquitous channel forming proteins that assemble as plasma membrane hemichannels and as intercellular gap junction channels that directly connect cells. In the heart, gap junction channels electrically connect myocytes and specialized conductive tissues to coordinate the atrial and ventricular contraction/relaxation cycles and pump function. In blood vessels, these channels facilitate long-distance endothelial cell communication, synchronize smooth muscle cell contraction, and support endothelial-smooth muscle cell communication. In the central nervous system they form cellular syncytia and coordinate neural function. Gap junction channels are normally open and hemichannels are normally closed, but pathologic conditions may restrict gap junction communication and promote hemichannel opening, thereby disturbing a delicate cellular communication balance. Until recently, most connexin-targeting agents exhibited little specificity and several off-target effects. Recent work with peptide-based approaches has demonstrated improved specificity and opened avenues for a more rational approach toward independently modulating the function of gap junctions and hemichannels. We here review the role of connexins and their channels in cardiovascular and neurovascular health and disease, focusing on crucial regulatory aspects and identification of potential targets to modify their function. We conclude that peptide-based investigations have raised several new opportunities for interfering with connexins and their channels that may soon allow preservation of gap junction communication, inhibition of hemichannel opening, and mitigation of inflammatory signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luc Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Paul D Lampe
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Stefan Dhein
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Brenda R Kwak
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Peter Ferdinandy
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Eric C Beyer
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Dale W Laird
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Christian C Naus
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Colin R Green
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium (L.L.); Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington (P.D.L.); Institute for Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany (S.D.); Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Medical Specialization-Cardiology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (B.R.K.); Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary (P.F.); Pharmahungary Group, Szeged, Hungary (P.F.); Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (E.C.B.); Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, Dental Science Building, London, Ontario, Canada (D.W.L.); Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (C.C.N.); Department of Ophthalmology and The New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand (C.R.G.); and Physiologisches Institut, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany (R.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Boengler K, Bulic M, Schreckenberg R, Schlüter K, Schulz R. The gap junction modifier ZP1609 decreases cardiomyocyte hypercontracture following ischaemia/reperfusion independent from mitochondrial connexin 43. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:2060-2073. [PMID: 28369703 PMCID: PMC5466543 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Dysregulation of gap junction-mediated cell coupling contributes to development of arrhythmias and myocardial damage after ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R). Connexin 43 (Cx43) is present at ventricular gap junctions and also in the mitochondria of cardiomyocytes. The dipeptide (2S, 4R)-1-(2-aminoacetyl)-4-benzamidopyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid (ZP1609) has antiarrhythmic properties and reduces infarct size when given at reperfusion. However, it is unclear, whether ZP1609 targets Cx43-containing mitochondria and affects cardiomyocyte hypercontracture following I/R. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We studied the effects of ZP1609 on the function of murine sub-sarcolemmal mitochondria (SSM, containing Cx43) and interfibrillar mitochondria (IFM, lacking Cx43). Murine isolated cardiomyocytes were subjected to simulated I/R without and with ZP1609 (applied during I/R or at the onset of reperfusion only), and the number of cardiomyocytes undergoing hypercontracture was quantified. Biochemical pathways targeted by ZP1609 in cardiomyocytes were analysed. KEY RESULTS ZP1609 inhibited ADP-stimulated respiration and ATP production in SSM and IFM. ROS formation and calcium retention capacities in SSM and IFM were not affected by ZP1609, whereas potassium uptake was enhanced in IFM. The number of rod-shaped cardiomyocytes was increased by ZP1609 (10 μM) when administered either during I/R or reperfusion. ZP1609 altered the phosphorylation of proteins contributing to the protection against I/R injury. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS ZP1609 reduced mitochondrial respiration and ATP production, but enhanced potassium uptake of IFM. Additionally, ZP1609 reduced the extent of cardiomyocytes undergoing hypercontracture following I/R. The protective effect was independent of mitochondrial Cx43, as ZP1609 exerts its effects in Cx43-containing SSM and Cx43-lacking IFM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Boengler
- Physiologisches InstitutJustus‐Liebig‐Universität GiessenGiessenGermany
| | - Marko Bulic
- Physiologisches InstitutJustus‐Liebig‐Universität GiessenGiessenGermany
| | | | | | - Rainer Schulz
- Physiologisches InstitutJustus‐Liebig‐Universität GiessenGiessenGermany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
One-pot synthesis of novel (2R,4S)-N-aryl-4-hydroxy-1-(2,2,2-trifluoroacetyl) pyrrolidine-2-carboxamides via TiO₂-NPs and Pd(PPh₃)₂Cl₂ catalysts and investigation of their biological activities. Mol Divers 2017; 21:305-315. [PMID: 28190224 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-017-9726-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A new class of (2R,4S)-N-aryl-4-hydroxy-1-(2,2,2-trifluoroacetyl)pyrrolidine-2-carboxamide compounds was synthesized by a facile one-pot reaction of trans-4-hydroxy proline and trifluoroacetimidoyl chlorides in the presence of [Formula: see text]-nanoparticles as a catalyst and sodium bicarbonate as a base. Synthesized compounds showed cytotoxicity with [Formula: see text] values of 15.3-70.3 [Formula: see text] against K562 (Homo sapiens, human) cells. The results of the study provide a valuable method for one-pot synthesis of trans-4-hydroxy proline-based N-(2,2,2-trifluoroacetylated) compounds. Also, these compounds show significant pharmaceutical activities as antibacterial and antifungal reagents.
Collapse
|
17
|
Gigout S, Deisz R, Dehnicke C, Turak B, Devaux B, Pumain R, Louvel J. Role of gap junctions on synchronization in human neocortical networks. Brain Res 2016; 1637:14-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Revised: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
18
|
Grek CL, Rhett JM, Ghatnekar GS. Cardiac to cancer: connecting connexins to clinical opportunity. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:1349-64. [PMID: 24607540 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.02.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 02/25/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions and their connexin components are indispensable in mediating the cellular coordination required for tissue and organ homeostasis. The critical nature of their existence mandates a connection to disease while at the same time offering therapeutic potential. Therapeutic intervention may be offered through the pharmacological and molecular disruption of the pathways involved in connexin biosynthesis, gap junction assembly, stabilization, or degradation. Chemical inhibitors aimed at closing connexin channels, peptide mimetics corresponding to short connexin sequences, and gene therapy approaches have been incredibly useful molecular tools in deciphering the complexities associated with connexin biology. Recently, therapeutic potential in targeting connexins has evolved from basic research in cell-based models to clinical opportunity in the form of human trials. Clinical promise is particularly evident with regards to targeting connexin43 in the context of wound healing. The following review is aimed at highlighting novel advances where the pharmacological manipulation of connexin biology has proven beneficial in animals or humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina L Grek
- FirstString Research, Inc., 300 W. Coleman Blvd., Suite 203, Mount Pleasant, SC, United States
| | - J Matthew Rhett
- Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Gautam S Ghatnekar
- FirstString Research, Inc., 300 W. Coleman Blvd., Suite 203, Mount Pleasant, SC, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kylmäoja E, Kokkonen H, Kauppinen K, Hussar P, Sato T, Haugan K, Larsen BD, Tuukkanen J. Osteoclastogenesis is influenced by modulation of gap junctional communication with antiarrhythmic peptides. Calcif Tissue Int 2013; 92:270-81. [PMID: 23241925 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-012-9680-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2011] [Accepted: 11/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Osteoclasts are formed by the fusion of mononuclear precursor cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage. Among several putative mechanisms, gap-junctional intercellular communication (GJC) has been proposed to have a role in osteoclast fusion and bone resorption. We examined the role of GJC in osteoclastogenesis and in vitro bone resorption with mouse bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells and RAW 264.7 cells. Blocking of gap junctions with 18-α-glycyrrhetinic acid (18GA) led to inhibition of osteoclastogenesis and in vitro bone resorption. Similarly, the GJC inhibitor GAP27 inhibited osteoclast formation. GJC modulation with the antiarrhythmic peptides (AAPs) led to increased amounts of multinuclear RAW 264.7 osteoclasts as well as increased number of nuclei per multinuclear cell. In the culture of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells in the presence of bone marrow stromal cells AAP reduced the number of osteoclasts, and coculture of MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts with RAW 264.7 macrophages prevented the action of AAPs to promote osteoclastogenesis. The present data indicate that AAPs modulate the fusion of the pure culture of cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage. However, the fusion is influenced by GJC in cells of the osteoblast lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elina Kylmäoja
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Skyschally A, Walter B, Schultz Hansen R, Heusch G. The antiarrhythmic dipeptide ZP1609 (danegaptide) when given at reperfusion reduces myocardial infarct size in pigs. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2013; 386:383-91. [PMID: 23397587 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-013-0840-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Connexin 43 is located in the cardiomyocyte sarcolemma and in the mitochondrial membrane. Sarcolemmal connexin 43 contributes to the spread of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, whereas mitochondrial connexin 43 contributes to cardioprotection. We have now investigated the antiarrhythmic dipeptide ZP1609 (danegaptide), which is an analog of the connexin 43 targeting antiarrhythmic peptide rotigaptide (ZP123), in an established and clinically relevant experimental model of ischemia/reperfusion in pigs. Pigs were subjected to 60 min coronary occlusion and 3 h reperfusion. ZP1609 (n = 10) was given 10 min prior to reperfusion (75 μg/kg b.w. bolus i.v. + 57 μg/kg/min i.v. infusion for 3 h). Immediate full reperfusion (IFR, n = 9) served as control. Ischemic postconditioning (PoCo, n = 9; 1 min LAD reocclusion after 1 min reperfusion; four repetitions) was used as a positive control of cardioprotection. Infarct size (TTC) was determined as the end point of cardioprotection. Systemic hemodynamics and regional myocardial blood flow during ischemia were not different between groups. PoCo and ZP1609 reduced infarct size vs. IFR (IFR, 46 ± 4 % of area at risk; mean ± SEM; PoCo, 31 ± 4 %; ZP1609, 25 ± 5 %; both p < 0.05 vs. IFR; ANOVA). There were only few arrhythmias during reperfusion such that no antiarrhythmic action of ZP1609 was observed. ZP1609 when given before reperfusion reduces infarct size to a similar extent as ischemic postconditioning. Further studies are necessary to define the mechanism/action of ZP1609 on connexin 43 in cardiomyocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Skyschally
- Institut für Pathophysiologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122 Essen, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Haq N, Grose D, Ward E, Chiu O, Tigue N, Dowell SJ, Powell AJ, Chen MX. A high-throughput assay for connexin 43 (Cx43, GJA1) gap junctions using codon-optimized aequorin. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2012; 11:93-100. [PMID: 23046406 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2012.469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) are intercellular channels which are composed of the connexin family of proteins that allow electrical and chemical communications and synchronization in tissue ensembles. Evidence suggests that pharmaceutical modulators of these channels may have therapeutic potential or carry undesired liability. In this report, we exogenously expressed human connexin 43 (Cx43, GJA1) and demonstrated functionality in a 96-well flow cytometry assay detecting intercellular transfer of the calcein dye. We have designed a 384-well high-throughput method for detecting the transfer of calcium between HeLa cells expressing Cx43. In this assay, donor cells coexpress Cx43 and the α1A adrenergic Gα-coupled receptor, while recipient cells coexpress Cx43 and the cytoplasmic version of the calcium-sensitive luminescent protein aequorin enhanced by codon optimization (cytoAeq). The two cell populations were mixed, dispensed to 384-well plates, and incubated for 3 h to allow the formation of GJs. Activation of α1A by epinephrine in donor cells led to dose-dependent calcium increases in recipient cells, which were detected by measuring the intensity of aequorin luminescence. The response was dependent on the expression of Cx43 and inhibited by the GJ blocker 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid, suggesting Cx43 GJ-mediated activity. In a parallel experiment with capsaicin and the TrpV1 ion channel in place of phenylephrine and α1A, a similar magnitude of difference in the maximal calcium response was detected in both donor and recipient cells, suggesting that calcium is likely the permeant ion through the GJ. This assay may pave the way for high-throughput screening of GJ modulators for drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nazia Haq
- Biological Reagents and Assay Development, GlaxoSmithKline R&D, Stevenage, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia, and is responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality in the general population. Current treatments have moderate efficacy and considerable risks, especially of pro-arrhythmia, highlighting the need for new therapeutic strategies. In recent years, substantial efforts have been invested in developing novel treatments that target the underlying molecular determinants of atrial fibrillation, and several new compounds are under development. This Review focuses on the mechanistic rationale for the development of new anti-atrial fibrillation drugs, on the molecular and structural motifs that they target and on the results obtained so far in experimental and clinical studies.
Collapse
|
23
|
De Vuyst E, Boengler K, Antoons G, Sipido KR, Schulz R, Leybaert L. Pharmacological modulation of connexin-formed channels in cardiac pathophysiology. Br J Pharmacol 2011; 163:469-83. [PMID: 21265827 PMCID: PMC3101610 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01244.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Revised: 12/09/2010] [Accepted: 01/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Coordinated electrical activity in the heart is supported by gap junction channels located at the intercalated discs of cardiomyocytes. Impaired gap junctional communication between neighbouring cardiomyocytes contributes to the development of re-entry arrhythmias after myocardial ischaemia. Current antiarrhythmic therapy is hampered by a lack of efficiency and side effects, creating the need for a new generation of drugs. In this review, we focus on compounds that increase gap junctional communication, thereby increasing the conduction velocity and decreasing the risk of arrhythmias. Some of these compounds also inhibit connexin 43 (Cx43) hemichannels, thereby limiting adenosine triphosphate loss and volume overload following ischaemia/reperfusion, thus potentially increasing the survival of cardiomyocytes. The compounds discussed in this review are: (i) antiarrythmic peptide (AAP), AAP10, ZP123; (ii) GAP-134; (iii) RXP-E; and (vi) the Cx mimetic peptides Gap 26 and Gap 27. None of these compounds have effects on Na(+) , Ca(2+) and K(+) channels, and therefore have no proarrhythmic activity associated with currently available antiarrhythmic drugs. GAP-134, RXP-E, Gap 26 and Gap 27 are pharmalogical agents with a favorable clinical safety profile, as already confirmed in phase I clinical trials for GAP-134. These agents show an excellent promise for treatment of arrhythmias in patients with ischaemic cardiomyopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elke De Vuyst
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences – Physiology group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent UniversityGhent, Belgium
| | - Kerstin Boengler
- Institut für Pathophysiologie, Zentrum für Innere Medizin, Universitätsklinikum EssenEssen, Germany
| | - Gudrun Antoons
- Department for Experimental Cardiology, O & N1, K.U.LeuvenLeuven, Belgium
| | - Karin R Sipido
- Department for Experimental Cardiology, O & N1, K.U.LeuvenLeuven, Belgium
| | - Rainer Schulz
- Institut für Physiologie, Justus-Liebig Universität GießenGießen, Germany
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences – Physiology group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent UniversityGhent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
A high yielding practical three-step procedure, which relies on an extractive work-up procedure, has been developed to convert N-phenylsulfonyl-trans-4-hydroxy-l-proline to N-phenylsulfonyl-cis-4-hydroxy-l-proline methyl ester in 82 % yield over three steps.
Collapse
|
25
|
Ravens U. Antiarrhythmic therapy in atrial fibrillation. Pharmacol Ther 2010; 128:129-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2010.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2010] [Accepted: 06/11/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
26
|
New pharmacological targets and treatments for atrial fibrillation. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2010; 31:364-71. [PMID: 20605645 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2010.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2010] [Revised: 04/30/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an arrhythmia of growing clinical concern that is increasing in prevalence and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacological agents remain the first-line therapy for the AF patient, and the potential advantages of sinus rhythm maintenance motivate continued efforts to identify novel pharmacological means to restore and maintain sinus rhythm. Traditional antiarrhythmic agents only moderately suppress AF and present problematic concerns of proarrhythmia and extracardiac toxicity. Current investigational or recently approved strategies for improving efficacy and safety of anti-AF agents include (i) specific or predominant blockade of atrial ion channels; (ii) "upstream therapies" affecting non-ion channel targets that influence electrical and structural remodeling, inflammation and oxidative stress; (iii) amiodarone derivatives with an improved safety profile; (iv) intracellular calcium handling; and (v) therapies aiming at alleviating conduction disturbances (gap junction coupling enhancers). This review provides a succinct overview of some of these strategies.
Collapse
|
27
|
Dhein S, Hagen A, Jozwiak J, Dietze A, Garbade J, Barten M, Kostelka M, Mohr FW. Improving cardiac gap junction communication as a new antiarrhythmic mechanism: the action of antiarrhythmic peptides. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2009; 381:221-34. [PMID: 19943035 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-009-0473-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2009] [Accepted: 11/08/2009] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Co-ordinated electrical activation of the heart is maintained by intercellular coupling of cardiomyocytes via gap junctional channels located in the intercalated disks. These channels consist of two hexameric hemichannels, docked to each other, provided by either of the adjacent cells. Thus, a complete gap junction channel is made from 12 protein subunits, the connexins. While 21 isoforms of connexins are presently known, cardiomyocytes typically are coupled by Cx43 (most abundant), Cx40 or Cx45. Some years ago, antiarrhythmic peptides were discovered and synthesised, which were shown to increase macroscopic gap junction conductance (electrical coupling) and enhance dye transfer (metabolic coupling). The lead substance of these peptides is AAP10 (H-Gly-Ala-Gly-Hyp-Pro-Tyr-CONH(2)), a peptide with a horseshoe-like spatial structure as became evident from two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance studies. A stable D: -amino-acid derivative of AAP10, rotigaptide, as well as a non-peptide analogue, gap-134, has been developed in recent years. Antiarrhythmic peptides act on Cx43 and Cx45 gap junctions but not on Cx40 channels. AAP10 has been shown to enhance intercellular communication in rat, rabbit and human cardiomyocytes. Antiarrhythmic peptides are effective against ventricular tachyarrhythmias, such as late ischaemic (type IB) ventricular fibrillation, CaCl(2) or aconitine-induced arrhythmia. Interestingly, the effect of antiarrhythmic peptides is higher in partially uncoupled cells and was shown to be related to maintained Cx43 phosphorylation, while arrhythmogenic conditions like ischaemia result in Cx43 dephosphorylation and intercellular decoupling. It is still a matter of debate whether these drugs also act against atrial fibrillation. The present review outlines the development of this group of peptides and derivatives, their mode of action and molecular mechanisms, and discusses their possible therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Dhein
- Clinic for Cardiac Surgery, University of Leipzig, Struempellstr. 39, 04289, Leipzig, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
|
29
|
Piatnitski Chekler EL, Butera JA, Di L, Swillo RE, Morgan GA, Rossman EI, Huselton C, Larsen BD, Hennan JK. Discovery of a class of potent gap-junction modifiers as novel antiarrhythmic agents. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2009; 19:4551-4. [PMID: 19616941 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2009.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2009] [Revised: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 07/02/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In an effort to discover potent, orally bioavailable compounds for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) and ventricular tachycardia (VT), we developed a class of gap-junction modifiers typified by GAP-134 (1, R(1)=OH, R(2)=NH(2)), a compound currently under clinical evaluation. Selected compounds with the desired in-vitro profile demonstrated positive in vivo results in the mouse CaCl(2) arrhythmia model upon oral administration.
Collapse
|
30
|
Laurent G, Leong-Poi H, Mangat I, Moe GW, Hu X, So PPS, Tarulli E, Ramadeen A, Rossman EI, Hennan JK, Dorian P. Effects of Chronic Gap Junction Conduction–Enhancing Antiarrhythmic Peptide GAP-134 Administration on Experimental Atrial Fibrillation in Dogs. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2009; 2:171-8. [DOI: 10.1161/circep.108.790212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background—
Abnormal intercellular communication caused by connexin dysfunction may contribute to atrial fibrillation (AF). The present study assessed the effect of the gap junction conduction–enhancing antiarrhythmic peptide GAP-134 on AF inducibility and maintenance in a dog model of atrial cardiomyopathy.
Methods and Results—
Twenty-four dogs subject to simultaneous atrioventricular pacing (220 bpm for 14 days) were randomly assigned to placebo treatment (PACED-CTRL; 12 dogs) or oral GAP-134 (2.9 mg/kg BID; PACED-GAP-134; 12 dogs) starting on day 0. UNPACED-CTRL (4 dogs) and UNPACED-GAP-134 (4 dogs) served as additional control groups. Change in left atrial (LA) systolic area from baseline to 14 days was calculated using transoesophageal echocardiography. At 14 days, animals underwent an open-chest electrophysiological study. PACED-CTRL dogs (versus UNPACED-CTRL) had a shorter estimated LA wavelength (8.0�1.4 versus 24.4�2.5 cm,
P
<0.05) and a greater AF vulnerability (mean AF duration, 1588�329 versus 25�34 seconds,
P
<0.05). Oral GAP-134 had no effect on AF vulnerability in UNPACED dogs. Compared with PACED-CTRL dogs, PACED-GAP-134 dogs had a longer estimated LA wavelength (10.2�2.8 versus 8.0�1.4 cm, respectively,
P
<0.05). Oral GAP-134 did not significantly reduce AF inducibility or maintenance in the entire group of 24 PACED dogs; in a subgroup of dogs (n=11) with less than 100% increase in LA systolic area, oral GAP-134 reduced AF induction from 100% to 40% and mean AF duration from 1737�120 to 615�280 seconds (
P
<0.05).
Conclusions—
Oral GAP-134 reduces pacing-induced decrease in LA wavelength and appears to attenuate AF vulnerability in dogs with less atrial mechanical remodeling. Gap junction modulation may affect AF in some circumstances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Laurent
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Howard Leong-Poi
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Iqwal Mangat
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Gordon W. Moe
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Xudong Hu
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Petsy Pui-Sze So
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Emidio Tarulli
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Andrew Ramadeen
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Eric I. Rossman
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - James K. Hennan
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| | - Paul Dorian
- From the Keenan Research Center, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (G.L., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.), and Division of Cardiology (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., X.H., P.P.-S.S., A.R., P.D.) St Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; the Department of Medicine (H.L.-P., I.M., G.W.M., E.T., P.D.), University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Wyeth Research (E.I.R., J.K.H.), Collegeville, Pa
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Rossman EI, Liu K, Morgan GA, Swillo RE, Krueger JA, Gardell SJ, Butera J, Gruver M, Kantrowitz J, Feldman HS, Petersen JS, Haugan K, Hennan JK. The Gap Junction Modifier, GAP-134 [(2S,4R)-1-(2-Aminoacetyl)-4-benzamido-pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic Acid], Improves Conduction and Reduces Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter in the Canine Sterile Pericarditis Model. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2009; 329:1127-33. [DOI: 10.1124/jpet.108.150102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
|