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Hurvitz N, Dinur T, Revel-Vilk S, Agus S, Berg M, Zimran A, Ilan Y. A Feasibility Open-Labeled Clinical Trial Using a Second-Generation Artificial-Intelligence-Based Therapeutic Regimen in Patients with Gaucher Disease Treated with Enzyme Replacement Therapy. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3325. [PMID: 38893036 PMCID: PMC11172426 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13113325] [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: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Gaucher Disease type 1 (GD1) is a recessively inherited lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency in the enzyme β-glucocerebrosidase. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) has become the standard of care for patients with GD. However, over 10% of patients experience an incomplete response or partial loss of response to ERT, necessitating the exploration of alternative approaches to enhance treatment outcomes. The present feasibility study aimed to determine the feasibility of using a second-generation artificial intelligence (AI) system that introduces variability into dosing regimens for ERT to improve the response to treatment and potentially overcome the partial loss of response to the enzyme. Methods: This was an open-label, prospective, single-center proof-of-concept study. Five patients with GD1 who received ERT were enrolled. The study used the Altus Care™ cellular-phone-based application, which incorporated an algorithm-based approach to offer random dosing regimens within a pre-defined range set by the physician. The app enabled personalized therapeutic regimens with variations in dosages and administration times. Results: The second-generation AI-based personalized regimen was associated with stable responses to ERT in patients with GD1. The SF-36 quality of life scores improved in one patient, and the sense of change in health improved in two; platelet levels increased in two patients, and hemoglobin remained stable. The system demonstrated a high engagement rate among patients and caregivers, showing compliance with the treatment regimen. Conclusions: This feasibility study highlights the potential of using variability-based regimens to enhance ERT effectiveness in GD and calls for further and longer trials to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Hurvitz
- Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel;
| | - Tama Dinur
- Gaucher Unit, The Eisenberg R&D Authority, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem 9103102, Israel; (T.D.); (S.R.-V.); (A.Z.)
| | - Shoshana Revel-Vilk
- Gaucher Unit, The Eisenberg R&D Authority, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem 9103102, Israel; (T.D.); (S.R.-V.); (A.Z.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Samuel Agus
- Oberon Sciences and Area 9 Innovation, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA; (S.A.); (M.B.)
| | - Marc Berg
- Oberon Sciences and Area 9 Innovation, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA; (S.A.); (M.B.)
- Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ari Zimran
- Gaucher Unit, The Eisenberg R&D Authority, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem 9103102, Israel; (T.D.); (S.R.-V.); (A.Z.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
| | - Yaron Ilan
- Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel;
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9112001, Israel
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2
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Sen Sarma M, Tripathi PR. Natural history and management of liver dysfunction in lysosomal storage disorders. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1844-1861. [PMID: 36340750 PMCID: PMC9627439 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i10.1844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lysosomal storage disorders (LSD) are a rare group of genetic disorders. The major LSDs that cause liver dysfunction are disorders of sphingolipid lipid storage [Gaucher disease (GD) and Niemann-Pick disease] and lysosomal acid lipase deficiency [cholesteryl ester storage disease and Wolman disease (WD)]. These diseases can cause significant liver problems ranging from asymptomatic hepatomegaly to cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Abnormal storage cells initiate hepatic fibrosis in sphingolipid disorders. Dyslipidemia causes micronodular cirrhosis in lipid storage disorders. These disorders must be keenly differentiated from other chronic liver diseases and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis that affect children and young adults. GD, Niemann-Pick type C, and WD also cause neonatal cholestasis and infantile liver failure. Genotype and liver phenotype correlation is variable in these conditions. Patients with LSD may survive up to 4-5 decades except for those with neonatal onset disease. The diagnosis of all LSD is based on enzymatic activity, tissue histology, and genetic testing. Enzyme replacement is possible in GD and Niemann-Pick types A and B though there are major limitations in the outcome. Those that progress invariably require liver transplantation with variable outcomes. The prognosis of Niemann-Pick type C and WD is universally poor. Enzyme replacement therapy has a promising role in cholesteryl ester storage disease. This review attempts to outline the natural history of these disorders from a hepatologist’s perspective to increase awareness and facilitate better management of these rare disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moinak Sen Sarma
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226014, India
| | - Parijat Ram Tripathi
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Hyderabad 500072, India
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3
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A synergistic effect of Ambroxol and Beta-Glucosylceramide in alleviating immune-mediated hepatitis: A novel immunomodulatory non-immunosuppressive formulation for treatment of immune-mediated disorders. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 132:110890. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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4
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Adar T, Shankar Lankalapalli R, Bittman R, Ilan Y. The assembly of glycosphingolipid determines their immunomodulatory effect: A novel method for structure-based design of immunotherapy. Cell Immunol 2020; 355:104157. [PMID: 32659503 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2020.104157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Structure-activity relationships provide insight into the binding interactions of beta-glycosphingolipids (GSLs) with both the TCR and the CD1d molecules, as well as the subsequent immunologic response of regulatory NKT cells. AIM To determine the effects of synthetic GSL structures on their immune modulatory functions. METHODS GSLs of various structures were tested in vitro and in an animal model of Concanavalin A (ConA) immune-mediated hepatitis. RESULTS In vitro, using SV40 binding to live monkey CV1 cells, the l-threo stereoisomer of C8-β-LacCer inhibits caveolar internalization, reducing viral binding to the cell surface. In vivo, in the ConA model, LR172, which has a saturated C8 chain, and LR178, which has a trans double bond at C-2 in the C8 chain, suppressed the immune-mediated liver inflammation and reduced IFNγ levels in a dose dependent manner. The beneficial effects of LR172 and of LR178 are associated with suppression of liver apoptosis, increased phosphorylated STAT3 expression in the liver, and an increase in the NKT liver/spleen ratio. SUMMARY The assembly of GSLs determines their immunomodulatory effect and can serve as a method for structure-based design of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomer Adar
- Department of Medicine, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ravi Shankar Lankalapalli
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Queens College of the City University of New York, United States; Chemical Sciences and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram 695019, Kerala, India
| | - Robert Bittman
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Queens College of the City University of New York, United States
| | - Yaron Ilan
- Department of Medicine, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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5
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Ishay Y, Nachman D, Khoury T, Ilan Y. The role of the sphingolipid pathway in liver fibrosis: an emerging new potential target for novel therapies. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 318:C1055-C1064. [PMID: 32130072 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00003.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids (SL) are a family of bioactive lipids and a major cellular membrane structural component. SLs include three main compounds: ceramide (Cer), sphingosine (Sp), and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S-1P), all of which have emerging roles in biological functions in cells, especially in the liver. They are under investigation in various liver diseases, including cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. In this review, we provide an overview on the role of SLs in liver pathobiology and focus on their potential role in the development of hepatic fibrosis. We describe recent evidence and suggest SLs are a promising potential therapeutic target for the treatment of liver disease and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Ishay
- Department of Internal Medicine A, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dean Nachman
- Department of Internal Medicine A, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tawfik Khoury
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yaron Ilan
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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6
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Ilan Y. β-Glycosphingolipids as Mediators of Both Inflammation and Immune Tolerance: A Manifestation of Randomness in Biological Systems. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1143. [PMID: 31178868 PMCID: PMC6538797 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasticity in biological systems is attributed to the combination of multiple parameters which determine function. These include genotypic, phenotypic, and environmental factors. While biological processes can be viewed as ordered and sequential, biological randomness was suggested to underline part of them. The present review looks into the concept of randomness in biological systems by exploring the glycosphingolipids-NKT cells example. NKT cells are a unique subset of regulatory lymphocytes which play a role in both inflammation and tolerance. Glycosphingolipids promote an immune balance by changing different arms of the immune system in opposing environments. Traditional immunology looks at skewing the immune system into different directions by different types of activation of the same cell stimulation of different cells subsets, use of different ligands, or different the effect of different immune environments. While these may explain some of the effects, the lack of consistency and opposing results under similar settings may involve randomness which may also be part of real life effects of immunomodulatory agents. It means that several of the biological processes, cannot be explained by simple linear models, and may involve more complex concepts. The application for these concepts for improving therapies to patients with Gaucher disease are discussed. SUMMARY The use of different ligands that target a variety of cell subsets in different immune environments may underlie differences in the functionality of NKT cells and their variability in response to NKT-based therapies. The novel concept of randomness in biology means that several biological processes cannot be solely explained by simple linear models and may instead involve much more complicated schemes of random disorder. These may have implications on future design of therapeutic regimens for improving the response to current treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Ilan
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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Defective Sphingolipids Metabolism and Tumor Associated Macrophages as the Possible Links Between Gaucher Disease and Blood Cancer Development. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20040843. [PMID: 30781349 PMCID: PMC6412850 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20040843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a rising number of evidence indicating the increased risk of cancer development in association with congenital metabolic errors. Although these diseases represent disorders of individual genes, they lead to the disruption of metabolic pathways resulting in metabolite accumulation or their deficiency. Gaucher disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive sphingolipidosis. It is a rare lysosomal storage disease. A strong correlation between GD and different types of cancers, such as multiple myeloma, leukemia, and hepatocellular carcinoma, has been reported. Common features for all types of GD include spleen and liver enlargement, cytopenia, and a variety of bone defects. Overall, the molecular bases leading to the association of GD and cancers are not clearly understood. Here, we describe the role of ceramides in GD, discuss the potential implications of immune cells activation and show how the disturbances in their metabolism might promote blood cancer development.
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Pavićević A, Lakočević M, Popović M, Popović-Bijelić A, Daković M, Mojović M. Changes of the peripheral blood mononuclear cells membrane fluidity from type 1 Gaucher disease patients: an electron paramagnetic resonance study. Biol Chem 2018; 399:447-452. [PMID: 29272250 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2017-0241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Gaucher disease (GD) is a lysosomal storage disorder, caused by an impaired function of β-glucocerebrosidase, which results in accumulation of glucocerebroside in cells, and altered membrane ordering. Using electron paramagnetic resonance spin labeling, a statistically significant difference in the order parameter between the peripheral blood mononuclear cell membranes of GD patients and healthy controls was observed. Moreover, the results show that the introduction of the enzyme replacement therapy leads to the restoration of the physiological membrane fluidity. Accordingly, this simple method could serve as a preliminary test for GD diagnosis and therapy efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Pavićević
- EPR Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Lakočević
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotića 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Popović
- EPR Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Popović-Bijelić
- EPR Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Daković
- EPR Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Miloš Mojović
- EPR Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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9
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Adar T, Ilan Y, Elstein D, Zimran A. Liver involvement in Gaucher disease – Review and clinical approach. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2018; 68:66-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2016.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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10
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11
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Lalazar G, Zigmond E, Weksler-Zangen S, Ya'acov AB, Levy MS, Hemed N, Raz I, Ilan Y. Oral Administration of β-Glucosylceramide for the Treatment of Insulin Resistance and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: Results of a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Med Food 2017; 20:458-464. [DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2016.3753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gadi Lalazar
- Gasroeterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ehud Zigmond
- Gasroeterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sarah Weksler-Zangen
- Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ami Ben Ya'acov
- Gasroeterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Miriam Sklair Levy
- Department of Radiology, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nilla Hemed
- Gasroeterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Itamar Raz
- Diabetes Unit, Department of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yaron Ilan
- Gasroeterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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von Gerichten J, Schlosser K, Lamprecht D, Morace I, Eckhardt M, Wachten D, Jennemann R, Gröne HJ, Mack M, Sandhoff R. Diastereomer-specific quantification of bioactive hexosylceramides from bacteria and mammals. J Lipid Res 2017; 58:1247-1258. [PMID: 28373486 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.d076190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammals synthesize, cell-type specifically, the diastereomeric hexosylceramides, β-galactosylceramide (GalCer) and β-glucosylceramide (GlcCer), which are involved in several diseases, such as sphingolipidosis, diabetes, chronic kidney diseases, or cancer. In contrast, Bacteroides fragilis, a member of the human gut microbiome, and the marine sponge, Agelas mauritianus, produce α-GalCer, one of the most potent stimulators for invariant natural killer T cells. To dissect the contribution of these individual stereoisomers to pathologies, we established a novel hydrophilic interaction chromatography-based LC-MS2 method and separated (R > 1.5) corresponding diastereomers from each other, independent of their lipid anchors. Testing various bacterial and mammalian samples, we could separate, identify (including the lipid anchor composition), and quantify endogenous β-GlcCer, β-GalCer, and α-GalCer isomers without additional derivatization steps. Thereby, we show a selective decrease of β-GlcCers versus β-GalCers in cell-specific models of GlcCer synthase-deficiency and an increase of specific β-GlcCers due to loss of β-glucoceramidase 2 activity. Vice versa, β-GalCer increased specifically when cerebroside sulfotransferase (Gal3st1) was deleted. We further confirm β-GalCer as substrate of globotriaosylceramide synthase for galabiaosylceramide synthesis and identify additional members of the human gut microbiome to contain immunogenic α-GalCers. Finally, this method is shown to separate corresponding hexosylsphingosine standards, promoting its applicability in further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna von Gerichten
- Lipid Pathobiochemistry Group German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.,Instrumental Analytics and Bioanalytics, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Kerstin Schlosser
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute for Technical Microbiology, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Dominic Lamprecht
- Lipid Pathobiochemistry Group German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.,Center for Applied Research in Biomedical Mass Spectrometry (ABIMAS), Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ivan Morace
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Eckhardt
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Center for Rare Diseases University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dagmar Wachten
- Minerva Max Planck Research Group, Molecular Physiology, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Bonn, Germany.,Institute of Innate Immunity, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Richard Jennemann
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hermann-Josef Gröne
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pathology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Mack
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute for Technical Microbiology, Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Roger Sandhoff
- Lipid Pathobiochemistry Group German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany .,Center for Applied Research in Biomedical Mass Spectrometry (ABIMAS), Mannheim University of Applied Sciences, Mannheim, Germany
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13
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Ilan Y. Review article: novel methods for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis - targeting the gut immune system to decrease the systemic inflammatory response without immune suppression. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:1168-1182. [PMID: 27778363 PMCID: PMC5216447 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The systemic immune system plays a role in inflammation and fibrogenesis associated with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and has become a potential target for drug development. In particular, the gut immune system has been suggested as a means for generating signals that can target the systemic immune system. AIM To describe seven novel methods being developed for the treatment of NASH that target the gut immune system for alleviation of the systemic inflammatory response, including oral administration of fatty-liver-derived proteins, anti-CD3 antibodies, tumour necrosis factor fusion protein, anti-lipopolysaccharide antibodies, glucosylceramide, delayed-release mercaptopurine, and soy-derived extracts. METHODS A search for these methods for oral immunotherapy for NASH was conducted. RESULTS Oral administration of these compounds provides an opportunity for immune modulation without immune suppression, with the advantage of being independent of a single molecular/inflammatory pathway. These modes of oral immune therapy demonstrate superior safety profiles, such that the patient is not exposed to general immune suppression. Moreover, these approaches target the whole spectrum of the disease and may serve as adjuvants to other therapies, such that they provide a platform for treatment of concomitant disorders in patients with NASH, including diabetes and hyperlipidaemia. Most of the compounds reviewed are currently in phase II trials, and it is anticipated that the acquisition of more clinical data in the next few years will enable the use of this new class of drugs for the treatment of NASH. CONCLUSION Oral immunotherapy may provide a novel platform for the treatment of NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y. Ilan
- Gastroenterology and Liver UnitsDepartment of MedicineHadassah Hebrew University Medical CenterJerusalemIsrael
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14
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Ishay Y, Zimran A, Szer J, Dinur T, Ilan Y, Arkadir D. Combined beta-glucosylceramide and ambroxol hydrochloride in patients with Gaucher related Parkinson disease: From clinical observations to drug development. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2016; 68:117-120. [PMID: 27866808 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2016.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Both patients with non-neuronopathic Gaucher disease (GD) and heterozygous GBA mutation carrier are at increased risk for Parkinson disease (PD). The risk for PD in these groups does not linearly increase with glucosylceramide (GC) accumulation or with acid β-glucocerebrosidase (GCase) activity. This observation, together with other clinical systemic observations raises the possibility that extra-cellular GC actually has beneficial, anti-inflammatory, properties. Based on this hypothesis, we suggest here that the administration of supplementary oral GC to GBA carriers at risk for PD may slow inflammatory-driven secondary neuronal death. Such a treatment may act synergistically in GBA carriers once given in combination with an agent that prevent the primary pathologic process that leads to cell death. Ambroxol hydrochloride, a pharmacological chaperone, which reduces endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induced by accumulation of mutant misfolded GCase could serve as such an agent. The efficacy of this combined therapy, derived from clinical observations, in vivo and in vitro studies, should be evaluated in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Ishay
- Department of Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ari Zimran
- Gaucher Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jeffrey Szer
- Department of Clinical Hematology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tama Dinur
- Gaucher Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yaron Ilan
- Department of Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David Arkadir
- Department of Neurology, Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel.
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15
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Ilan Y. Compounds of the sphingomyelin-ceramide-glycosphingolipid pathways as secondary messenger molecules: new targets for novel therapies for fatty liver disease and insulin resistance. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2016; 310:G1102-17. [PMID: 27173510 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00095.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The compounds of sphingomyelin-ceramide-glycosphingolipid pathways have been studied as potential secondary messenger molecules in various systems, along with liver function and insulin resistance. Secondary messenger molecules act directly or indirectly to affect cell organelles and intercellular interactions. Their potential role in the pathogenesis of steatohepatitis and diabetes has been suggested. Data samples collected from patients with Gaucher's disease, who had high levels of glucocerebroside, support a role for compounds from these pathways as a messenger molecules in the pathogenesis of fatty liver disease and diabetes. The present review summarizes some of the recent data on the role of glycosphingolipid molecules as messenger molecules in various physiological and pathological conditions, more specifically including insulin resistance and fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaron Ilan
- Gastroenterology and Liver Units, Department of Medicine, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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16
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Oral immune therapy: targeting the systemic immune system via the gut immune system for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Clin Transl Immunology 2016; 5:e60. [PMID: 26900473 PMCID: PMC4735066 DOI: 10.1038/cti.2015.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are associated with an altered systemic immune response leading to inflammation-mediated damage to the gut and other organs. Oral immune therapy is a method of systemic immune modulation via alteration of the gut immune system. It uses the inherit ability of the innate system of the gut to redirect the systemic innate and adaptive immune responses. Oral immune therapy is an attractive clinical approach to treat autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. It can induce immune modulation without immune suppression, has minimal toxicity and is easily administered. Targeting the systemic immune system via the gut immune system can serve as an attractive novel therapeutic method for IBD. This review summarizes the current data and discusses several examples of oral immune therapeutic methods for using the gut immune system to generate signals to reset systemic immunity as a treatment for IBD.
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17
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Khoury T, Ben Ya'acov A, Shabat Y, Zolotarovya L, Snir R, Ilan Y. Altered distribution of regulatory lymphocytes by oral administration of soy-extracts exerts a hepatoprotective effect alleviating immune mediated liver injury, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and insulin resistance. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:7443-56. [PMID: 26139990 PMCID: PMC4481439 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i24.7443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Revised: 02/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To determine the immune-modulatory and the hepatoprotective effects of oral administration of two soy extracts in immune mediated liver injury and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). METHODS Two soy extracts, M1 and OS, were orally administered to mice with concanavalin A (ConA) immune-mediated hepatitis, to high-fat diet (HFD) mice and to methionine and choline reduced diet combined with HFD mice. Animals were followed for disease and immune biomarkers. RESULTS Oral administration of OS and M1 had an additive effect in alleviating ConA hepatitis manifested by a decrease in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase serum levels. Oral administration of the OS and M1 soy derived fractions, ameliorated liver injury in the high fat diet model of NASH, manifested by a decrease in hepatic triglyceride levels, improvement in liver histology, decreased serum cholesterol and triglycerides and improved insulin resistance. In the methionine and choline reduced diet combined with the high fat diet model, we noted a decrease in hepatic triglycerides and improvement in blood glucose levels and liver histology. The effects were associated with reduced serum tumor necrosis factor alpha and alteration of regulatory T cell distribution. CONCLUSION Oral administration of the combination of OS and M1 soy derived extracts exerted an adjuvant effect in the gut-immune system, altering the distribution of regulatory T cells, and alleviating immune mediated liver injury, hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance.
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Elstein D, Alcalay R, Zimran A. The emergence of Parkinson disease among patients with Gaucher disease. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2015; 29:249-59. [PMID: 25987177 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2014.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In the last decade, several lines of evidence have been presented that document the clinical manifestations, genetic associations, and sub-cellular mechanisms of the inter-relatedness of β-glucocerebrosidase mutations and the emergence of Parkinson disease among carriers and patients with Gaucher disease. This review is an attempt to apprise the reader of the recent literature with the caveat that this is an area of intensive exploration that is constantly being updated because of the immediate clinical ramifications but also because of the impact on our understanding of Parkinson disease, and finally because of the unexpected inter-reactions between these entities on the molecular level. It has been an unexpected happenstance that it has been discovered that a rare monogenetic disease has an interface at many points with a neurological disorder of the elderly that has both familial and sporadic forms: to date there is no cure for either of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Elstein
- Gaucher Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Affiliated with the Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem Israel.
| | - Roy Alcalay
- Department of Neurology and the Taub Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Ari Zimran
- Gaucher Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Affiliated with the Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem Israel.
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Marcucci G, Zimran A, Bembi B, Kanis J, Reginster JY, Rizzoli R, Cooper C, Brandi ML. Gaucher disease and bone manifestations. Calcif Tissue Int 2014; 95:477-94. [PMID: 25377906 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-014-9923-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Gaucher disease is a relatively rare metabolic disease caused by the inherited deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase. Gaucher disease affects multiple organs, among which is the skeleton. Bone involvement occurs frequently in Gaucher disease, and is one of its most debilitating features, reducing the quality of life of patients. Bone status is an important consideration for treatment to ameliorate symptoms and reduce the risk of irreversible complications. We have conducted a systematic review of all the various aspects of Gaucher disease, focusing on different skeletal manifestations, pathophysiology of bone alterations, clinical symptoms, and current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Marcucci
- Head, Bone Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
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Balgoma D, Checa A, Sar DG, Snowden S, Wheelock CE. Quantitative metabolic profiling of lipid mediators. Mol Nutr Food Res 2013; 57:1359-77. [PMID: 23828856 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201200840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Revised: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Lipids are heterogeneous biological molecules that possess multiple physiological roles including cell structure, homeostasis, and restoration of tissue functionality during and after inflammation. Lipid metabolism constitutes a network of pathways that are related at multiple biosynthetic hubs. Disregulation of lipid metabolism can lead to pathophysiological effects and multiple lipid mediators have been described to be involved in physiological processes, (e.g. inflammation). Accordingly, a thorough description of these pathways may shed light on putative relations in multiple complex diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, obesity, and cancer. Due to the structural complexity of lipids and the low abundance of many lipid mediators, mass spectrometry is the most commonly employed method for analysis. However, multiple challenges remain in the efforts to analyze every lipid subfamily. In this review, the biological role of sphingolipids, glycerolipids, oxylipins (e.g. eicosanoids), endocannabinoids, and N-acylethanolamines in relation to health and disease and the state-of-the-art analyses are summarized. The characterization and understanding of these pathways will increase our ability to examine for interrelations among lipid pathways and improve the knowledge of biological mechanisms in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Balgoma
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Physiological Chemistry II, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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21
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Elstein D, Zimran A. Safety and efficacy of velaglucerase alfa replacement therapy for patients with type 1 Gaucher disease. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2013; 8:333-339. [PMID: 30736148 DOI: 10.1586/17446651.2013.811871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Gaucher disease is a multisystem disorder caused by deficiency of β-glucocerebrosidase. Exogenously delivered enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is currently standard of care. Since 1994, intravenously delivered recombinant ERT with imiglucerase (Cerezyme; Genzyme Corporation, Cambridge, MA, USA) improves hematological, visceral and skeletal features of Gaucher disease at dosages of 15-60 units/kg bodyweight/infusion, administered every other week (EOW). Velaglucerase alfa (VPRIV®; Shire HGT, MA, USA) is a human wild-type-sequenced ERT produced in human cell lines using proprietary Gene-Activation® technology (Shire HGT). This article describes the results of a Phase I/II seminal trial in treatment-naive non-neuronopathic patients (including stepwise dose reduction to 30 units/kg/EOW) and three Phase III trials (two doses: 45 or 60 units/kg/EOW; switch-over from imiglucerase at identical dose; head-to-head with imiglucerase, 60 units/kg/EOW) and Phase III extension trial. Velaglucerase alfa was approved in 2010 in many countries; based on clinical trial experience, it is safe and effective in treatment-naive and switch-over patients, children and adults, splenectomized patients and those with an intact spleen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Elstein
- b Gaucher Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, POB 3235, 12 Bayit Street, Jerusalem, 91031, Israel.
| | - Ari Zimran
- a Gaucher Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, POB 3235, 12 Bayit Street, Jerusalem, 91031, Israel
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22
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Abstract
Metabolic syndrome, obesity, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis are associated with a state of chronic inflammation. The immune system and the inflammatory cascade can be involved in the development of any of the above common conditions. This association raises the question of whether immune therapy can be used for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Although immune therapy is not yet feasible for clinical use, here, we review some of the recent data on the potential role of the various arms of the immune system in the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and several potential therapeutic targets.
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Shabat Y, Lichtenstein Y, Zolotarov L, Ben Ya'acov A, Ilan Y. Hepatoprotective effect of DT56a is associated with changes in natural killer T cells and regulatory T cells. J Dig Dis 2013; 14:84-92. [PMID: 23134214 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.12003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the metabolic and immunological effects of the oral administration of DT56a, an enzymatic isolate of soybeans. METHODS DT56a was orally administered to mice in three animal models: leptin deficiency, high-fat diet (HFD) supplementation and immune-mediated hepatitis. Liver damage and immunological status were assessed. RESULTS Oral administration of DT56a to leptin-deficient (ob/ob) and HFD mice led to a significant reduction in serum triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels. DT56a-treated mice in both models exhibited a significant reduction in hepatic levels of TG and marked alleviation of glycemic control as indicated by significant decreases in fasting blood glucose levels and glucose tolerance tests. The levels of liver enzymes were reduced. These metabolic effects were associated with altered distributions of regulatory T (Tregs) and natural killer T (NKT) cells. DT56a suppressed the immune-mediated liver damage induced by concanavalin A indicated by decreased liver enzymes and serum interferon-γ levels and by improved histology and decreased hepatic apoptosis. Oral administration of DT56a also alleviated immune-mediated hepatitis and affected Tregs and NKT cells. CONCLUSIONS Oral administration of DT56a promotes a hepatoprotective effect associated with an alteration in the distribution of Tregs and NKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehudit Shabat
- Liver Unit, Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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24
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Lieblich M, Altarescu G, Zimran A, Elstein D. Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) polymorphic variants in patients with cancer and Gaucher disease. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2011; 46:92-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2010.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Lebel E, Ioscovich A, Itzchaki M, Zimran A, Elstein D. Hip arthroplasty in patients with Gaucher disease. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2011; 46:60-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2010.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Fuller M. Sphingolipids: the nexus between Gaucher disease and insulin resistance. Lipids Health Dis 2010; 9:113. [PMID: 20937139 PMCID: PMC2964722 DOI: 10.1186/1476-511x-9-113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2010] [Accepted: 10/11/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sphingolipids constitute a diverse array of lipids in which fatty acids are linked through amide bonds to a long-chain base, and, structurally, they form the building blocks of eukaryotic membranes. Ceramide is the simplest and serves as a precursor for the synthesis of the three main types of complex sphingolipids; sphingomyelins, glycosphingolipids and gangliosides. Sphingolipids are no longer considered mere structural spectators, but bioactive molecules with functions beyond providing a mechanically stable and chemically resistant barrier to a diverse array of cellular processes. Although sphingolipids form a somewhat minor component of the total cellular lipid pool, their accumulation in certain cells forms the basis of many diseases. Human diseases caused by alterations in the metabolism of sphingolipids are conventionally inborn errors of degradation, the most common being Gaucher disease, in which the catabolism of glucosylceramide is defective and accumulates. Insulin resistance has been reported in patients with Gaucher disease and this article presents evidence that this is due to perturbations in the metabolism of sphingolipids. Ceramide and the more complex sphingolipids, the gangliosides, are constituents of specialised membrane microdomains termed lipid rafts. Lipid rafts play a role in facilitating and regulating lipid and protein interactions in cells, and their unique lipid composition enables them to carry out this role. The lipid composition of rafts is altered in cell models of Gaucher disease which may be responsible for impaired lipid and protein sorting observed in this disorder, and consequently pathology. Lipid rafts are also necessary for correct insulin signalling, and a perturbed lipid raft composition may impair insulin signalling. Unravelling common nodes of interaction between insulin resistance and Gaucher disease may lead to a better understanding of the biochemical mechanisms behind pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fuller
- Lysosomal Diseases Research Unit, Genetics and Molecular Pathology, SA Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, 5006 South Australia, Australia.
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Ilan Y. Alpha versus beta: are we on the way to resolve the mystery as to which is the endogenous ligand for natural killer T cells? Clin Exp Immunol 2009; 158:300-7. [PMID: 19793337 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2009.04030.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) lymphocytes are a unique subset of cells that play a role in regulating the immune system. For the past decade, studies have focused upon attempts to define these cells and to determine the ligand(s) that are required for their development and peripheral activation. Many research groups have focused upon determining the mechanisms for activating or inhibiting NKT cells in an attempt to control immune-mediated disorders as well as infectious and malignant conditions by using different ligand structures. Alpha-anomeric glycolipids and phospholipids derived from mammalian, bacterial, protozoan and plant species have been suggested as potential ligands for these lymphocytes. Some of these ligands were structured in forms that can bind to CD1d molecules. The lack of alpha-anomeric glycosphingolipids in mammals and the modest effect of these ligands in human studies, along with recent data from animal models and humans on the NKT-dependent immunomodulatory effect of beta-glycosphingolipids, suggest that the beta-anomeric ligands have the potential to be the endogenous NKT ligand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Ilan
- Department of Medicine, Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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