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Yehia A, Abulseoud OA. Melatonin: a ferroptosis inhibitor with potential therapeutic efficacy for the post-COVID-19 trajectory of accelerated brain aging and neurodegeneration. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:36. [PMID: 38641847 PMCID: PMC11031980 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-024-00728-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The unprecedented pandemic of COVID-19 swept millions of lives in a short period, yet its menace continues among its survivors in the form of post-COVID syndrome. An exponentially growing number of COVID-19 survivors suffer from cognitive impairment, with compelling evidence of a trajectory of accelerated aging and neurodegeneration. The novel and enigmatic nature of this yet-to-unfold pathology demands extensive research seeking answers for both the molecular underpinnings and potential therapeutic targets. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death, is a strongly proposed underlying mechanism in post-COVID-19 aging and neurodegeneration discourse. COVID-19 incites neuroinflammation, iron dysregulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, antioxidant system repression, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) disruption, and clock gene alteration. These events pave the way for ferroptosis, which shows its signature in COVID-19, premature aging, and neurodegenerative disorders. In the search for a treatment, melatonin shines as a promising ferroptosis inhibitor with its repeatedly reported safety and tolerability. According to various studies, melatonin has proven efficacy in attenuating the severity of certain COVID-19 manifestations, validating its reputation as an anti-viral compound. Melatonin has well-documented anti-aging properties and combating neurodegenerative-related pathologies. Melatonin can block the leading events of ferroptosis since it is an efficient anti-inflammatory, iron chelator, antioxidant, angiotensin II antagonist, and clock gene regulator. Therefore, we propose ferroptosis as the culprit behind the post-COVID-19 trajectory of aging and neurodegeneration and melatonin, a well-fitting ferroptosis inhibitor, as a potential treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Yehia
- Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, 58054, USA
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Osama A Abulseoud
- Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, 58054, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ, 85054, USA.
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2
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Murphy WJ, Collins CP, Ashwood P. Potential role of anti-Idiotype responses on the neurological effects of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC). Brain Behav Immun 2024; 116:317-320. [PMID: 38123027 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- William J Murphy
- Departments of Dermatology and Internal Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States.
| | - Craig P Collins
- Graduate Program in Immunology, UC Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, MIND Institute, UC Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
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3
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Diab KMA, Meshcheryakov KL, Sokolova VN, Plyakina AA, Mamedov VE. [Pediatric sensorineural hearing loss related COVID-19. Clinical cases]. Vestn Otorinolaringol 2024; 89:64-68. [PMID: 39104275 DOI: 10.17116/otorino20248903164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
COVID-19 is an acute respiratory coronavirus infection in 2019 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Currently, the number of neurological complications in the acute or delayed period of coronavirus disease is increasing, including peripheral disorders of the auditory analyzer. OBJECTIVE To present clinical cases of sensorineural hearing loss in children under 5 years of age after a novel coronavirus infection. MATERIAL AND METHODS We report 3 cases of unilateral and 1 case of bilateral acquired deep sensorineural hearing loss, while the association with SARS-CoV-2 has been confirmed anamnetically and/or laboratory. RESULTS The SARS-CoV-2 virus can have a depressing effect on the cochlea on its own or enhance the toxic effect of viruses during the recovery period after COVID-19. The true frequency of acute sensorineural hearing loss of infectious origin in childhood and, as its outcome, the formation of persistent hearing impairment has not been determined. CONCLUSION Viruses are volatile, contagious, and clinically dangerous due to their complications. Vaccination is the most effective measure for the prevention of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kh M-A Diab
- National Medical Research Center for Children's Health, Moscow, Russia
- National Medical Research Center for Otorhinolaryngology, Moscow, Russia
| | - K L Meshcheryakov
- National Medical Research Center for Children's Health, Moscow, Russia
| | - V N Sokolova
- National Medical Research Center for Children's Health, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Plyakina
- National Medical Research Center for Children's Health, Moscow, Russia
| | - V E Mamedov
- National Medical Research Center for Children's Health, Moscow, Russia
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Samra AI, Kamel AS, Abdallah DM, El Fattah MAA, Ahmed KA, El-Abhar HS. Preclinical Evidence for the Role of the Yin/Yang Angiotensin System Components in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Therapeutic Target of Astaxanthin. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3156. [PMID: 38137376 PMCID: PMC10740500 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123156] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence is emerging with an unclear etiology, hindering effective therapeutic interventions. Recent studies suggest potential renin-angiotensin system (RAS) alterations in different neurological pathologies. However, its implications in ASD are unexplored. This research fulfills the critical gap by investigating dual arms of RAS and their interplay with Notch signaling in ASD, using a valproic acid (VPA) model and assessing astaxanthin's (AST) modulatory impacts. Experimentally, male pups from pregnant rats receiving either saline or VPA on gestation day 12.5 were divided into control and VPA groups, with subsequent AST treatment in a subset (postnatal days 34-58). Behavioral analyses, histopathological investigations, and electron microscopy provided insights into the neurobehavioral and structural changes induced by AST. Molecular investigations of male pups' cortices revealed that AST outweighs the protective RAS elements with the inhibition of the detrimental arm. This established the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory axes of RAS (ACE2/Ang1-7/MasR) in the ASD context. The results showed that AST's normalization of RAS components and Notch signaling underscore a novel therapeutic avenue in ASD, impacting neuronal integrity and behavioral outcomes. These findings affirm the integral role of RAS in ASD and highlight AST's potential as a promising treatment intervention, inviting further neurological research implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayat I. Samra
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt; (A.I.S.); (D.M.A.); (M.A.A.E.F.)
| | - Ahmed S. Kamel
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt; (A.I.S.); (D.M.A.); (M.A.A.E.F.)
| | - Dalaal M. Abdallah
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt; (A.I.S.); (D.M.A.); (M.A.A.E.F.)
| | - Mai A. Abd El Fattah
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt; (A.I.S.); (D.M.A.); (M.A.A.E.F.)
| | - Kawkab A. Ahmed
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt;
| | - Hanan S. El-Abhar
- Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University in Egypt (FUE), Cairo 11835, Egypt;
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Niroumand Sarvandani M, Sheikhi Koohsar J, Rafaiee R, Saeedi M, Seyedhosseini Tamijani SM, Ghazvini H, Sheibani H. COVID-19 and the Brain: A Psychological and Resting-state Functional Magnetic Resonance Imagin (fMRI) Study of the Whole-brain Functional Connectivity. Basic Clin Neurosci 2023; 14:753-771. [PMID: 39070192 PMCID: PMC11273205 DOI: 10.32598/bcn.2021.1425.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) spreads rapidly worldwide and causes severe acute respiratory syndrome. The current study aims to evaluate the relationship between the whole-brain functional connections in a resting state and cognitive impairments in patients with COVID-19 compared to the healthy control group. Methods Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) and Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) data were obtained from 29 patients of the acute stage of COVID-19 on the third day of admission and 20 healthy controls. Cross-correlation of the mean resting-state signals was determined in the voxels of 23 independent components (IC) of brain neural circuits. To assess cognitive function and neuropsychological status, MoCA was performed on all participants. The relationship between rs-fMRI information, neuropsychological status, and paraclinical data was analyzed. Results The COVID-19 group got a lower mean MoCA score and showed a significant reduction in the functional connectivity of the IC14 (P<0.001) and IC38 (P<0.001) regions compared to the controls. The increase in functional connectivity was observed in the COVID-19 group compared to the controls at baseline in the default mode network (DMN) IC00 (P<0.001) and dorsal attention network (DAN) IC08 (P<0.001) regions. Furthermore, the alternation of functional connectivity in the mentioned ICs was significantly correlated with the mean MoCA scores and inflammatory parameters, i.e. erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Conclusion Functional connectivity abnormalities in four brain neural circuits are associated with cognitive impairment and increased inflammatory markers in patients with COVID-19. Highlights The patients with coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) got a lower mean Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) score.The patients with COVID-19 showed significant reduction in the functional connectivity of the IC14 and IC38 regions.The patients with COVID-19 showed significant increase of functional connectivity in the default mode network (DMN) IC00 and dorsal attention network (DAN) IC08 regions.Alternation of functional connectivity was significantly correlated with the mean MoCA scores and ESR and CRP. Plain Language Summary The researcher aimed at assessing cognitive impairments and investigating the whole-brain functional connectivity using resting state fMRI in patients with COVID-19 compared with healthy control group. The result showed That COVID-19 group got a lower mean cognitive score and showed a significant reduction in the functional connectivity of the IC14 and IC38 regions of brain compared with controls. Also, the increase of functional connectivity was observed in the COVID-19 group compared with controls at baseline in the default mode network (DMN) and dorsal attention network (DAN) regions of brain. Moreover, Functional connectivity abnormalities in four brain neural circuits associated with cognitive impairment and increased inflammatory markers in patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Niroumand Sarvandani
- Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medicine, Student Research Committee, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Javad Sheikhi Koohsar
- Health Related Social and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Raheleh Rafaiee
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Saeedi
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | | | - Hamed Ghazvini
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hossein Sheibani
- Unit of Clinical Research Development, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
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Tomkinson S, Triscott C, Schenk E, Foey A. The Potential of Probiotics as Ingestible Adjuvants and Immune Modulators for Antiviral Immunity and Management of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19. Pathogens 2023; 12:928. [PMID: 37513775 PMCID: PMC10384479 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Probiotic bacteria are able to modulate general antiviral responsiveness, including barrier functionality and innate and adaptive immune responses. The COVID-19 pandemic, resulting from SARS-CoV-2 infection, has created a need to control and treat this viral infection and its ensuing immunopathology with a variety of approaches; one such approach may involve the administration of probiotic bacteria. As with most viral infections, its pathological responses are not fully driven by the virus, but are significantly contributed to by the host's immune response to viral infection. The potential adoption of probiotics in the treatment of COVID-19 will have to appreciate the fine line between inducing antiviral immunity without over-provoking immune inflammatory responses resulting in host-derived immunopathological tissue damage. Additionally, the effect exerted on the immune system by SARS-CoV-2 evasion strategies will also have to be considered when developing a robust response to this virus. This review will introduce the immunopathology of COVID-19 and the immunomodulatory effects of probiotic strains, and through their effects on a range of respiratory pathogens (IAV, SARS-CoV, RSV), as well as SARS-CoV-2, will culminate in a focus on how these bacteria can potentially manipulate both infectivity and immune responsiveness via barrier functionality and both innate and adaptive immunity. In conclusion, the harnessing of induction and augmentation of antiviral immunity via probiotics may not only act as an ingestible adjuvant, boosting immune responsiveness to SARS-CoV-2 infection at the level of barrier integrity and innate and adaptive immunity, but also act prophylactically to prevent infection and enhance protection afforded by current vaccine regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Tomkinson
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Cloe Triscott
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Emily Schenk
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
- Peninsula Medical School, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Andrew Foey
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
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Mahajan S, Sen D, Sunil A, Srikanth P, Marathe SD, Shaw K, Sahare M, Galande S, Abraham NM. Knockout of angiotensin converting enzyme-2 receptor leads to morphological aberrations in rodent olfactory centers and dysfunctions associated with sense of smell. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1180868. [PMID: 37404465 PMCID: PMC10315482 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1180868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal morphological characterization and behavioral phenotyping in mouse models help dissecting neural mechanisms of brain disorders. Olfactory dysfunctions and other cognitive problems were widely reported in asymptomatic carriers and symptomatic patients infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). This led us to generate the knockout mouse model for Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor, one of the molecular factors mediating SARS-CoV-2 entry to the central nervous system, using CRISPR-Cas9 based genome editing tools. ACE2 receptors and Transmembrane Serine Protease-2 (TMPRSS2) are widely expressed in the supporting (sustentacular) cells of human and rodent olfactory epithelium, however, not in the olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). Hence, acute inflammation induced changes due to viral infection in the olfactory epithelium may explain transient changes in olfactory detectabilities. As ACE2 receptors are expressed in different olfactory centers and higher brain areas, we studied the morphological changes in the olfactory epithelium (OE) and olfactory bulb (OB) of ACE2 KO mice in comparison with wild type animals. Our results showed reduced thickness of OSN layer in the OE, and a decrease in cross-sectional area of glomeruli in the OB. Aberrations in the olfactory circuits were revealed by lowered immunoreactivity toward microtubule associated protein 2 (MAP2) in the glomerular layer of ACE2 KO mice. Further, to understand if these morphological alterations lead to compromised sensory and cognitive abilities, we performed an array of behavioral assays probing their olfactory subsystems' performances. ACE2 KO mice exhibited slower learning of odor discriminations at the threshold levels and novel odor identification impairments. Further, ACE2 KO mice failed to memorize the pheromonal locations while trained on a multimodal task implying the aberrations of neural circuits involved in higher cognitive functions. Our results thus provide the morphological basis for the sensory and cognitive disabilities caused by the deletion of ACE2 receptors and offer a potential experimental approach to study the neural circuit mechanisms of cognitive impairments observed in long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarang Mahajan
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behaviour (LNCB), Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Deepshikha Sen
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behaviour (LNCB), Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anantu Sunil
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behaviour (LNCB), Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Priyadharshini Srikanth
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behaviour (LNCB), Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shruti D. Marathe
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behaviour (LNCB), Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Karishma Shaw
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behaviour (LNCB), Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mahesh Sahare
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sanjeev Galande
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology and Epigenetics, Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Center of Excellence in Epigenetics, Department of Life Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR, India
| | - Nixon M. Abraham
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits and Behaviour (LNCB), Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Granholm AC. Long-Term Effects of SARS-CoV-2 in the Brain: Clinical Consequences and Molecular Mechanisms. J Clin Med 2023; 12:3190. [PMID: 37176630 PMCID: PMC10179128 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12093190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous investigations have demonstrated significant and long-lasting neurological manifestations of COVID-19. It has been suggested that as many as four out of five patients who sustained COVID-19 will show one or several neurological symptoms that can last months after the infection has run its course. Neurological symptoms are most common in people who are less than 60 years of age, while encephalopathy is more common in those over 60. Biological mechanisms for these neurological symptoms need to be investigated and may include both direct and indirect effects of the virus on the brain and spinal cord. Individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementia, as well as persons with Down syndrome (DS), are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, but the biological reasons for this are not clear. Investigating the neurological consequences of COVID-19 is an urgent emerging medical need, since close to 700 million people worldwide have now had COVID-19 at least once. It is likely that there will be a new burden on healthcare and the economy dealing with the long-term neurological consequences of severe SARS-CoV-2 infections and long COVID, even in younger generations. Interestingly, neurological symptoms after an acute infection are strikingly similar to the symptoms observed after a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) or concussion, including dizziness, balance issues, anosmia, and headaches. The possible convergence of biological pathways involved in both will be discussed. The current review is focused on the most commonly described neurological symptoms, as well as the possible molecular mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Charlotte Granholm
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, CO 80045-0511, USA
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9
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Impact of genetic deletion of MrgD or Mas receptors in depressive-like behaviour in mice. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2023; 35:27-34. [PMID: 35979816 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2022.20] [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: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the impact of genetic deletion of receptors of the counterregulatory arms of the renin-angiotensin system in depressive-like behaviours. METHODS 8-12 weeks-old male mice wild type (WT, C57BL/6J) and mice with genetic deletion of MrgD (MrgD KO) or Mas receptors (Mas KO) were subjected to the Forced Swim Test (FST) and the Tail Suspension Test (TST). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Blockade of Mas was performed by acute intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of its selective antagonist, A779. RESULTS No statistical difference in immobility time was observed between MrgD KO and WT male animals subjected to FST and TST. However, acute icv injection of A779 significantly increased the immobility time of MrgD KO male mice subjected to FST and TST, suggesting the involvement of Mas in preventing depressive-like behaviour. Indeed, Mas KO male animals showed increased immobility time in FST and TST, evidencing a depressive-like behaviour in these animals, in addition to a reduction in BDNF levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. No changes in BDNF levels were observed in MrgD KO male animals. CONCLUSION Our data showed that Mas plays an important role in the neurobiology of depression probably by modulating BDNF expression. On the contrary, lack of MrgD did not alter depressive-like behaviour, which was supported by the lack of alterations in BDNF levels.
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Xu J, Huang X, Guo Y, Ma X, Li P, Zhou S, Zhang C, Chen R, Van Halm-Lutterodt N, Yuan L. Discrepant modulating effects of dietary docosahexaenoic acid on cerebral lipids, fatty acid transporter expression and soluble beta-amyloid levels in ApoE -/- and C57BL/6J mice. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2023; 49:e12855. [PMID: 36259948 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12855] [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: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The study was designed to explore the role of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) deficiency concomitant with dietary docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) treatment on brain β-amyloid (Aβ) and lipid levels. METHOD A 5-month dietary DHA intervention was conducted in ApoE-deficient (ApoE-/- ) mice and wild-type C57BL/6J (C57 wt) mice. The Morris water maze test was performed to assess the behaviour of the animals. The cortical contents of soluble Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cortical fatty acid levels were detected by gas chromatography. Gene and protein expression of molecules associated with cerebral Aβ and lipid metabolism were measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot and histological methods. RESULTS DHA treatment increased the content of cortical DHA and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) but decreased the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFAs in ApoE-/- mice; whereas the content of cortical DHA and n-3 PUFAs in C57 wt mice remained unchanged after DHA treatment. Cerebral Fabp5 and Cd36 gene expression were significantly downregulated in DHA-fed C57 wt mice; cerebral Cd36 and Scarb1 gene expression were significantly upregulated, whereas Fabp5 gene expression was downregulated in DHA-fed ApoE-/- mice. In comparison with C57 wt mice, the content of cortical soluble Aβ1-42 , total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) increased, whereas the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) decreased in ApoE-/- mice. Interestingly, these differences were significantly reversed by DHA dietary treatment. CONCLUSION DHA intervention has discrepant impacts on cerebral lipids, fatty acid transporter expression and soluble Aβ levels in ApoE-/- and C57 wt mice, suggesting the modifying role of ApoE status on the responses of cerebral lipids and Aβ metabolism to DHA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Xu
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochen Huang
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Nutrition Department, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yujie Guo
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Ma
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Pengfei Li
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shaobo Zhou
- School of Science, Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich, Chatham, UK
| | - Chi Zhang
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Rui Chen
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Linhong Yuan
- School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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11
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Rudnicka-Drożak E, Drożak P, Mizerski G, Zaborowski T, Ślusarska B, Nowicki G, Drożak M. Links between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's Disease-What Do We Already Know? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2146. [PMID: 36767513 PMCID: PMC9915236 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a life-changing condition whose etiology is explained by several hypotheses. Recently, a new virus contributed to the evidence of viral involvement in AD: the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the COVID-19 coronavirus disease. AD was found to be one of the most common COVID-19 comorbidities, and it was found to increase mortality from this disease as well. Moreover, AD patients were observed to present with the distinct clinical features of COVID-19, with delirium being prevalent in this group. The SARS-CoV-2 virus enters host cells through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. ACE2 is overexpressed in brains with AD, which thus increases the viral invasion. Furthermore, the inhibition of the ACE2 receptor by the SARS-CoV-2 virus may also decrease the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), contributing to neurodegeneration. The ApoE ε4 allele, which increases the risk of AD, was found to facilitate the SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells. Furthermore, the neuroinflammation and oxidative stress existing in AD patients enhance the inflammatory response associated with COVID-19. Moreover, pandemic and associated social distancing measures negatively affected the mental health, cognitive function, and neuro-psychiatric symptoms of AD patients. This review comprehensively covers the links between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease, including clinical presentation, molecular mechanisms, and the effects of social distancing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Rudnicka-Drożak
- Chair and Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
| | - Paulina Drożak
- Student Scientific Society, Chair and Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Mizerski
- Chair and Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Zaborowski
- Chair and Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
| | - Barbara Ślusarska
- Department of Family and Geriatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Nowicki
- Department of Family and Geriatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland
| | - Martyna Drożak
- Student Scientific Society, Chair and Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Langiewicza 6a, 20-035 Lublin, Poland
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12
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Golzari-Sorkheh M, Weaver DF, Reed MA. COVID-19 as a Risk Factor for Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 91:1-23. [PMID: 36314211 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory disease coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Although a primarily respiratory disease, recent reports indicate that it also affects the central nervous system (CNS). Over 25% of COVID-19 patients report neurological symptoms such as memory loss, anosmia, hyposmia, confusion, and headaches. The neurological outcomes may be a result of viral entry into the CNS and/or resulting neuroinflammation, both of which underlie an elevated risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Herein, we ask: Is COVID-19 a risk factor for AD? To answer, we identify the literature and review mechanisms by which COVID-19-mediated neuroinflammation can contribute to the development of AD, evaluate the effects of acute versus chronic phases of infection, and lastly, discuss potential therapeutics to address the rising rates of COVID-19 neurological sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Donald F Weaver
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mark A Reed
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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13
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Saikarthik J, Saraswathi I, Alarifi A, Al-Atram AA, Mickeymaray S, Paramasivam A, Shaikh S, Jeraud M, Alothaim AS. Role of neuroinflammation mediated potential alterations in adult neurogenesis as a factor for neuropsychiatric symptoms in Post-Acute COVID-19 syndrome-A narrative review. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14227. [PMID: 36353605 PMCID: PMC9639419 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistence of symptoms beyond the initial 3 to 4 weeks after infection is defined as post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). A wide range of neuropsychiatric symptoms like anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep disorders and cognitive disturbances have been observed in PACS. The review was conducted based on PRISMA-S guidelines for literature search strategy for systematic reviews. A cytokine storm in COVID-19 may cause a breach in the blood brain barrier leading to cytokine and SARS-CoV-2 entry into the brain. This triggers an immune response in the brain by activating microglia, astrocytes, and other immune cells leading to neuroinflammation. Various inflammatory biomarkers like inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, acute phase proteins and adhesion molecules have been implicated in psychiatric disorders and play a major role in the precipitation of neuropsychiatric symptoms. Impaired adult neurogenesis has been linked with a variety of disorders like depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and dementia. Persistence of neuroinflammation was observed in COVID-19 survivors 3 months after recovery. Chronic neuroinflammation alters adult neurogenesis with pro-inflammatory cytokines supressing anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines favouring adult neurogenesis. Based on the prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms/disorders in PACS, there is more possibility for a potential impairment in adult neurogenesis in COVID-19 survivors. This narrative review aims to discuss the various neuroinflammatory processes during PACS and its effect on adult neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayakumar Saikarthik
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Al Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,Department of Medical Education, College of Dentistry, Al Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ilango Saraswathi
- Department of Physiology, Madha Medical College and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abdulaziz Alarifi
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman A. Al-Atram
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Suresh Mickeymaray
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Al Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Anand Paramasivam
- Department of Physiology, RVS Dental College and Hospital, Kumaran Kottam Campus, Kannampalayan, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Saleem Shaikh
- Department of Medical Education, College of Dentistry, Al Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,Department of Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Dentistry, Al Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mathew Jeraud
- Department of Physiology, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz S. Alothaim
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Al Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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14
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Is SARS-CoV-2 a Risk Factor of Bipolar Disorder?-A Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11206060. [PMID: 36294388 PMCID: PMC9604904 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11206060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
For 2.5 years we have been facing the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its health, social and economic effects. One of its known consequences is the development of neuropsychiatric diseases such as anxiety and depression. However, reports of manic episodes related to COVID-19 have emerged. Mania is an integral part of the debilitating illness-bipolar disorder (BD). Due to its devastating effects, it is therefore important to establish whether SARS-CoV-2 infection is a causative agent of this severe mental disorder. In this narrative review, we discuss the similarities between the disorders caused by SARS-CoV-2 and those found in patients with BD, and we also try to answer the question of whether SARS-CoV-2 infection may be a risk factor for the development of this affective disorder. Our observation shows that disorders in COVID-19 showing the greatest similarity to those in BD are cytokine disorders, tryptophan metabolism, sleep disorders and structural changes in the central nervous system (CNS). These changes, especially intensified in severe infections, may be a trigger for the development of BD in particularly vulnerable people, e.g., with family history, or cause an acute episode in patients with a pre-existing BD.
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15
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Fu J, Chen S, Ni Z. Rational truncation, mutation, and halogenation of bradykinin neuropeptides as potent
ACEII
inhibitors by integrating molecular dynamics simulations, quantum mechanics calculations, and in vitro assays. J CHIN CHEM SOC-TAIP 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jccs.202200242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Fu
- Department of Neurology Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Suzhou China
| | - Shenghui Chen
- Department of Neurology Suzhou Kowloon Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Suzhou China
| | - Zhong Ni
- Institute of Life Sciences Jiangsu University Zhenjiang China
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16
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Quarleri J, Delpino MV. SARS-CoV-2 interacts with renin-angiotensin system: impact on the central nervous system in elderly patients. GeroScience 2022; 44:547-565. [PMID: 35157210 PMCID: PMC8853071 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-022-00528-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a recently identified coronavirus that causes the current pandemic disease known as COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 uses angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a receptor, suggesting that the initial steps of SARS-CoV-2 infection may have an impact on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Several processes are influenced by RAS in the brain. The neurological symptoms observed in COVID-19 patients, including reduced olfaction, meningitis, ischemic stroke, cerebral thrombosis, and delirium, could be associated with RAS imbalance. In this review, we focus on the potential role of disturbances in the RAS as a cause for central nervous system sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection in elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Quarleri
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus Y Sida (INBIRS), Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Paraguay 2155-Piso 11 (1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - M Victoria Delpino
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Retrovirus Y Sida (INBIRS), Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Paraguay 2155-Piso 11 (1121), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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17
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Villa C, Rivellini E, Lavitrano M, Combi R. Can SARS-CoV-2 Infection Exacerbate Alzheimer's Disease? An Overview of Shared Risk Factors and Pathogenetic Mechanisms. J Pers Med 2022; 12:29. [PMID: 35055344 PMCID: PMC8780286 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12010029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2, is affecting every aspect of global society, including public healthcare systems, medical care access, and the economy. Although the respiratory tract is primarily affected by SARS-CoV-2, emerging evidence suggests that the virus may also reach the central nervous system (CNS), leading to several neurological issues. In particular, people with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are a vulnerable group at high risk of contracting COVID-19, and develop more severe forms and worse outcomes, including death. Therefore, understanding shared links between COVID-19 and AD could aid the development of therapeutic strategies against both. Herein, we reviewed common risk factors and potential pathogenetic mechanisms that might contribute to the acceleration of neurodegenerative processes in AD patients infected by SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Villa
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rivellini
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Lavitrano
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Romina Combi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
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18
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Minuzzi LG, Seelaender M, Silva BSDA, Cunha EDBB, Deus MDC, Vasconcellos FTF, Marqueze LFB, Gadotti AC, Baena CP, Pereira T, Krüger K, Amaral ANM, Pinho RA, Lira FS. COVID-19 Outcome Relates With Circulating BDNF, According to Patient Adiposity and Age. Front Nutr 2021; 8:784429. [PMID: 34957187 PMCID: PMC8704131 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.784429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: We evaluated adipose tissue-derived hormones, body composition, serum metabolic profile, levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the association of these parameters with the clinical outcome in patients with COVID-19. We sought to examine whether obesity, sex, and age influence the adipose tissue endocrine response to the disease. Methods: This prospective study investigated 145 hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Patients were categorized based on their body mass index (BMI), sex and age, and were also classified regarding their outcome after hospitalization as: (a) Non-ICU: patients hospitalized who did not receive intensive care; (b) ICU-survivor: patients admitted to the intensive care unit and discharged; (c) ICU-death: patients who died. Blood samples were collected by the hospital staff between the first and third day of hospitalization. Serum leptin, adiponectin and BDNF concentrations, triglycerides, total cholesterol and cholesterol fractions were performed following the manufacturer's guidelines. Results: We demonstrate that BDNF levels predict intensive care (IC) need (p < 0.01). This association was found to be stronger in patients >60y (p = 0.026). Neither leptin nor adiponectin concentration was associated with IC requirement or with patient's outcome, while the BDNF/adiponectin ratio was closely associated with worsened outcomes (p < 0.01). BDNF concentration was similar between sexes, however tended to be lower in male patients (p = 0.023). In older patients, BDNF concentration was lower than that of younger patients (p = 0.020). These age and sex-specific differences should be considered when employing these potential markers for prognosis assessment. While appetite and body composition regulating hormones secreted by the white adipose tissue are not reliable predictors of disease severity, the ratio BDNF/adiponectin was indicative of patient status. Conclusion: Thus, we propose that serum BDNF content and BDNF/adiponectin ratio may serve as tools predicting worsened prognosis in COVID-19, especially for male patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciele Guerra Minuzzi
- Exercise and Immunometabolism Research Group, Postgraduation Program in Movement Sciences, Department of Physical Education, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Presidente Prudente, Brazil
| | - Marília Seelaender
- Cancer Metabolism Research Group, LIM26-HC, FMUSP, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruna Spolador De Alencar Silva
- Exercise and Immunometabolism Research Group, Postgraduation Program in Movement Sciences, Department of Physical Education, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Presidente Prudente, Brazil
| | | | - Marina De Castro Deus
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Luis Felipe Beltrão Marqueze
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Gadotti
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Cristina Pellegrino Baena
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Telmo Pereira
- Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Coimbra Health School, Coimbra, Portugal.,Laboratory for Applied Health Research (LabinSaúde), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Karsten Krüger
- Department of Exercise Physiology and Sports Therapy, Institute of Sports Science, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andréa Novais Moreno Amaral
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Aurino Pinho
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Fábio Santos Lira
- Exercise and Immunometabolism Research Group, Postgraduation Program in Movement Sciences, Department of Physical Education, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Presidente Prudente, Brazil
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19
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Li T, Huang HY, Wang H, Gao CC, Liang H, Deng CL, Zhao X, Han YL, Zhou ML. Restoration of Brain Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Alleviates Neurological Deficits after Severe Traumatic Brain Injury via Mitigation of Pyroptosis and Apoptosis. J Neurotrauma 2021; 39:423-434. [PMID: 34861788 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2021.0382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinically, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is intensely activated in moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. Increased angiotensin II in circulatory blood after TBI can enter the brain through the disrupted blood-brain barrier. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an enzyme that metabolizes angiotensin II into angiotensin (1-7), which has been shown to have neuroprotective results. However, the expression and role of ACE2 in the brain after TBI remains elusive. We found that ACE2 protein abundance was downregulated around the contusional area in the brains of both humans and mice. Endogenous ACE2 was expressed in neurons, astrocytes, and microglia in the cortex of the mouse brain. Administration of recombinant human ACE2 intracerebroventricularly alleviated neurological defects after TBI in mice. Treatment of recombinant human ACE2 suppressed TBI-induced increase of angiotensin II and the decrease of angiotensin (1-7) in the brain, mitigated neural cell death, reduced the activation of NLRP3 and Caspase3, decreased phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases, and nuclear factor kappa B, and reduced inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β. Administration of ACE2 enzyme activator diminazene aceturate intraperitoneally rescued downregulation of ACE2 enzymatic activity and protein abundance in the brain. Diminazene aceturate treatment once per day in the acute stage after TBI alleviated long-term cognitive defects and neuronal loss in mice. Collectively, these results indicated that restoration of ACE2 alleviated neurological deficits after TBI by mitigation of pyroptosis and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Li
- Nanjing Medical University, 12461, Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Jinling School of Clinical Medicine,, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Han-Yu Huang
- Nanjing Medical University, 12461, Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Jinling School of Clinical Medicine,, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Handong Wang
- Nanjing Medical University, 12461, neurosurgery of jinling hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Chao-Chao Gao
- Nanjing Medical University, 12461, Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Jinling School of Clinical Medicine,, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Hui Liang
- Nanjing University, 12581, Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Chu-Lei Deng
- Nanjing Jinling Hospital, 144990, Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Xin Zhao
- Nanjing University, 12581, Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Yan-Lin Han
- Nanjing University, 12581, Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Meng-Liang Zhou
- Nanjing University, 12581, Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
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20
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Paul D, Mohankumar SK, Thomas RS, Kheng CB, Basavan D. Potential implications of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 blockades on neuroinflammation in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 23:364-372. [PMID: 34732115 DOI: 10.2174/1389450122666211103165837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been reported as a portal for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Consequently, scientific strategies to combat coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) were targeted to arrest SARS-CoV-2 invasion by blocking ACE2. While blocking ACE2 appears a beneficial approach to treat COVID-19, clinical concerns have been raised primarily due to the various intrinsic roles of ACE2 in neurological functions. Selective reports indicate that angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) upregulate ACE2 levels. ACE2 metabolizes angiotensin II and several peptides, including apelin-13, neurotensin, kinetensin, dynorphin, [des-Arg9] bradykinin, and [Lys-des-Arg9]-bradykinin, which may elicit neuroprotective effects. Since ARBs and ACEIs upregulate ACE2, it may be hypothesized that patients with hypertension receiving ARBs and ACEIs may have higher expression of ACE2 and thus be at a greater risk of severe disease from the SARS-CoV-2 infections. However, recent clinical reports indicate the beneficial role of ARBs/ACEIs in reducing COVID-19 severity. Together, this warrants a further study of the effects of ACE2 blockades in hypertensive patients medicated with ARBs/ACEIs, and their consequential impact on neuronal health. However, the associations between their blockade and any neuroinflammation also warrant further research. OBJECTIVE This review collates mechanistic insights into the dichotomous roles of ACE2 in SARS-CoV-2 invasion and neurometabolic functions and the possible impact of ACE2 blockade on neuroinflammation. CONCLUSION It has been concluded that ACE2 blockade imposes neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepraj Paul
- TIFAC CORE in Herbal Drugs, Department of Pharmacognosy, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Rocklands, Ooty, The Nilgiris 643001, Tamil Nadu. India
| | - Suresh Kumar Mohankumar
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Wales SA2 8PP. United Kingdom
| | - Rhian S Thomas
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Wales SA2 8PP. United Kingdom
| | - Chai Boon Kheng
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128 Academia Road Section 2, Nangang District, Taipei City 11529. Taiwan
| | - Duraiswamy Basavan
- TIFAC CORE in Herbal Drugs, Department of Pharmacognosy, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Rocklands, Ooty, The Nilgiris 643001, Tamil Nadu. India
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21
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Sfera A, Osorio C, Rahman L, Zapata-Martín del Campo CM, Maldonado JC, Jafri N, Cummings MA, Maurer S, Kozlakidis Z. PTSD as an Endothelial Disease: Insights From COVID-19. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:770387. [PMID: 34776871 PMCID: PMC8586713 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.770387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 virus, the etiologic agent of COVID-19, has affected almost every aspect of human life, precipitating stress-related pathology in vulnerable individuals. As the prevalence rate of posttraumatic stress disorder in pandemic survivors exceeds that of the general and special populations, the virus may predispose to this disorder by directly interfering with the stress-processing pathways. The SARS-CoV-2 interactome has identified several antigens that may disrupt the blood-brain-barrier by inducing premature senescence in many cell types, including the cerebral endothelial cells. This enables the stress molecules, including angiotensin II, endothelin-1 and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, to aberrantly activate the amygdala, hippocampus, and medial prefrontal cortex, increasing the vulnerability to stress related disorders. This is supported by observing the beneficial effects of angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in both posttraumatic stress disorder and SARS-CoV-2 critical illness. In this narrative review, we take a closer look at the virus-host dialog and its impact on the renin-angiotensin system, mitochondrial fitness, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. We discuss the role of furin cleaving site, the fibrinolytic system, and Sigma-1 receptor in the pathogenesis of psychological trauma. In other words, learning from the virus, clarify the molecular underpinnings of stress related disorders, and design better therapies for these conditions. In this context, we emphasize new potential treatments, including furin and bromodomains inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adonis Sfera
- Department of Psychiatry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | - Carolina Osorio
- Department of Psychiatry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, United States
| | - Leah Rahman
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | | | - Jose Campo Maldonado
- Department of Medicine, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, TX, United States
| | - Nyla Jafri
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | | | - Steve Maurer
- Patton State Hospital, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | - Zisis Kozlakidis
- International Agency For Research On Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
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22
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Lorkiewicz P, Waszkiewicz N. Biomarkers of Post-COVID Depression. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4142. [PMID: 34575258 PMCID: PMC8470902 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10184142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is spreading around the world and 187 million people have already been affected. One of its after-effects is post-COVID depression, which, according to the latest data, affects up to 40% of people who have had SARS-CoV-2 infection. A very important issue for the mental health of the general population is to look for the causes of this complication and its biomarkers. This will help in faster diagnosis and effective treatment of the affected patients. In our work, we focused on the search for major depressive disorder (MDD) biomarkers, which are also present in COVID-19 patients and may influence the development of post-COVID depression. For this purpose, we searched PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar scientific literature databases using keywords such as 'COVID-19', 'SARS-CoV-2', 'depression', 'post-COVID', 'biomarkers' and others. Among the biomarkers found, the most important that were frequently described are increased levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), soluble interleukin 6 receptor (sIL-6R), interleukin 1 β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin 10 (IL-10), interleukin 2 (IL-2), soluble interleukin 2 receptor (sIL-2R), C-reactive protein (CRP), Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1), serum amyloid a (SAA1) and metabolites of the kynurenine pathway, as well as decreased brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and tryptophan (TRP). The biomarkers identified by us indicate the etiopathogenesis of post-COVID depression analogous to the leading inflammatory hypothesis of MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Lorkiewicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Bialystok, Plac Brodowicza 1, 16-070 Choroszcz, Poland;
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23
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Differential Proteomic Analysis of the Hippocampus in Rats with Neuropathic Pain to Investigate the Use of Electroacupuncture in Relieving Mechanical Allodynia and Cognitive Decline. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:5597163. [PMID: 34394341 PMCID: PMC8360723 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5597163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal changes in hippocampal function and neuroplasticity are involved in neuropathic pain, which induces hyperalgesia and learning and memory deficits. Previous studies from our group have shown that electroacupuncture at Huantiao (GB30) and Yanglingquan (GB34) has an obvious analgesic effect on neuropathic pain. However, the central regulatory mechanism occurring in the hippocampus remains to be investigated. In this study, behavioral and proteomic analyses were performed to identify differentially expressed hippocampal proteins involved in electroacupuncture-induced analgesia. Our results showed both upregulated (TMEM126A, RDH13, and Luc7L) and downregulated proteins (Mettl7A, GGA1 RTKN, RSBN1, and CDKN1B). Further protein verification revealed for the first time that hippocampal TMEM126A plays an important anti-inflammatory role in the treatment of neuralgia by electroacupuncture.
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Lecarpentier Y, Vallée A. The key role of the level of ACE2 gene expression in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:14552-14556. [PMID: 34115612 PMCID: PMC8221359 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 more readily affects the elderly, especially as they present co-morbidities. In the COVID-19 pathogeny, ACE2 appears to be the key cell receptor for SARS-CoV-2 to infect humans. The level of ACE2 gene expression influences the susceptibility of contracting SARS-CoV-2. In circumstances in which the ACE2 level is low, the incidence of Covid-19 seems to be fewer. Two clinical patterns illustrate this observation, i. e., in infants and in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Very young children and AD patients get little COVID-19, in part probably due to decreased expression of ACE2. The determination of the nasal level of ACE2 gene expression could provide a useful scale to predict the susceptibility to contract the SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Lecarpentier
- Centre de Recherche Clinique, Grand Hôpital de l'Est Francilien (GHEF), Meaux, France
| | - Alexandre Vallée
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
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Variants in ACE2; potential influences on virus infection and COVID-19 severity. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2021; 90:104773. [PMID: 33607284 PMCID: PMC7886638 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.104773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The third pandemic of coronavirus infection, called COVID-19 disease, was first detected in November 2019th. Various determinants of disease progression such as age, sex, virus mutations, comorbidity, lifestyle, host immune response, and genetic background variation have caused clinical variability of COVID-19. The causative agent of COVID-19 is an enveloped coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) that invades host cells using an endocytic pathway. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is the main viral protein that contributes to the fusion of the virus particle to the host cell through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The highly conserved expression of ACE2 is found in various animals, which indicates its pivotal physiological function. The ACE2 has a crucial role in vascular, renal, and myocardial physiology. Genetic factors contributing to the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection are unknown; however, variants in the specific sites of ACE2 gene could be regarded as a main genetic risk factor for COVID-19. Given that ACE2 is the main site for virus landing on host cells, the effect of amino acid sequences of ACE2 on host susceptibility to COVID-19 seems reasonable. It would likely have a substantial role in the occurrence of a wide range of clinical symptoms. Several ACE2 variants can affect the protein stability, influencing the interaction between spike protein and ACE2 through imposing conformational changes while some other variants are known to cause a decrease or an increase in the ligand-receptor affinity. The other variations are located at the proteolytic cleavage site, which can influence virus infection; because soluble ACE2 can act as a decoy receptor for virus and decrease virus intake by cell surface ACE2. Notably, polymorphisms of regulatory and non-coding regions such as promoter in ACE2, can play crucial role in different expression levels of ACE2 among different individuals. Many studies should be performed to investigate the involvement of ACE2 polymorphism with susceptibility to COVID-19. Herein, we discuss some reported associations between variants of ACE2 and COVID-19 in details. In addition, the mode of action of ACE2 and its role in SARS-CoV-2 infection are highlighted which is followed by addressing the effects of several ACE2 variants on its protein stability, viral tropism or ligand-receptor affinity, secondary and tertiary structure or protein conformation, proteolytic cleavage site, and finally inter-individual clinical variability in COVID-19. The polymorphisms of regulatory regions of ACE2 and their effect on expression levels of ACE2 are also provided in this review. Such studies can improve the prediction of the affinity of mutant ACE2 variations with spike protein, and help the biopharmaceutical industry to design effective approaches for recombinant hACE2 therapy and vaccination of COVID-19 disease.
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Tavčar P, Potokar M, Kolenc M, Korva M, Avšič-Županc T, Zorec R, Jorgačevski J. Neurotropic Viruses, Astrocytes, and COVID-19. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:662578. [PMID: 33897376 PMCID: PMC8062881 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.662578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At the end of 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was discovered in China, causing a new coronavirus disease, termed COVID-19 by the WHO on February 11, 2020. At the time of this paper (January 31, 2021), more than 100 million cases have been recorded, which have claimed over 2 million lives worldwide. The most important clinical presentation of COVID-19 is severe pneumonia; however, many patients present various neurological symptoms, ranging from loss of olfaction, nausea, dizziness, and headache to encephalopathy and stroke, with a high prevalence of inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) syndromes. SARS-CoV-2 may also target the respiratory center in the brainstem and cause silent hypoxemia. However, the neurotropic mechanism(s) by which SARS-CoV-2 affects the CNS remain(s) unclear. In this paper, we first address the involvement of astrocytes in COVID-19 and then elucidate the present knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 as a neurotropic virus as well as several other neurotropic flaviviruses (with a particular emphasis on the West Nile virus, tick-borne encephalitis virus, and Zika virus) to highlight the neurotropic mechanisms that target astroglial cells in the CNS. These key homeostasis-providing cells in the CNS exhibit many functions that act as a favorable milieu for virus replication and possibly a favorable environment for SARS-CoV-2 as well. The role of astrocytes in COVID-19 pathology, related to aging and neurodegenerative disorders, and environmental factors, is discussed. Understanding these mechanisms is key to better understanding the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and for developing new strategies to mitigate the neurotropic manifestations of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Tavčar
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Potokar
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marko Kolenc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miša Korva
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tatjana Avšič-Županc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jernej Jorgačevski
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica Biomedical, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Oz M, Lorke DE. Multifunctional angiotensin converting enzyme 2, the SARS-CoV-2 entry receptor, and critical appraisal of its role in acute lung injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 136:111193. [PMID: 33461019 PMCID: PMC7836742 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent emergence of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) as a pandemic affecting millions of individuals has raised great concern throughout the world, and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified as the causative agent for COVID-19. The multifunctional protein angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is accepted as its primary target for entry into host cells. In its enzymatic function, ACE2, like its homologue ACE, regulates the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) critical for cardiovascular and renal homeostasis in mammals. Unlike ACE, however, ACE2 drives an alternative RAS pathway by degrading Ang-II and thus operates to balance RAS homeostasis in the context of hypertension, heart failure, and cardiovascular as well as renal complications of diabetes. Outside the RAS, ACE2 hydrolyzes key peptides, such as amyloid-β, apelin, and [des-Arg9]-bradykinin. In addition to its enzymatic functions, ACE2 is found to regulate intestinal amino acid homeostasis and the gut microbiome. Although the non-enzymatic function of ACE2 as the entry receptor for SARS-CoV-2 has been well established, the contribution of enzymatic functions of ACE2 to the pathogenesis of COVID-19-related lung injury has been a matter of debate. A complete understanding of this central enzyme may begin to explain the various symptoms and pathologies seen in SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals, and may aid in the development of novel treatments for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Oz
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Safat 13110, Kuwait.
| | - Dietrich Ernst Lorke
- Department of Anatomy and Cellular Biology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Hernandez AR, Banerjee A, Carter CS, Buford TW. Angiotensin (1-7) Expressing Probiotic as a Potential Treatment for Dementia. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2021; 2:629164. [PMID: 34901930 PMCID: PMC8663799 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2021.629164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Increasing life expectancies are unfortunately accompanied by increased prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Regrettably, there are no current therapeutic options capable of preventing or treating AD. We review here data indicating that AD is accompanied by gut dysbiosis and impaired renin angiotensin system (RAS) function. Therefore, we propose the potential utility of an intervention targeting both the gut microbiome and RAS as both are heavily involved in proper CNS function. One potential approach which our group is currently exploring is the use of genetically-modified probiotics (GMPs) to deliver therapeutic compounds. In this review, we specifically highlight the potential utility of utilizing a GMP to deliver Angiotensin (1-7), a beneficial component of the renin-angiotensin system with relevant functions in circulation as well as locally in the gut and brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbi R. Hernandez
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- UAB Center for Exercise Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Anisha Banerjee
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Christy S. Carter
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- UAB Center for Exercise Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Nathan Shock Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Thomas W. Buford
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- UAB Center for Exercise Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Nathan Shock Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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29
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The Novel Coronavirus Infection (COVID-19) and Nervous System Involvement: Mechanisms of Neurological Disorders, Clinical Manifestations, and the Organization of Neurological Care. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 51:147-154. [PMID: 33619413 PMCID: PMC7889305 DOI: 10.1007/s11055-021-01050-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes COVID-19 involves not only respiratory system damage, but can also lead to disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as the muscular system. This article presents published data and our own observations on the course of neurological disorders in COVID-19 patients. There is a relationship between the severity of COVID-19 and the severity and frequency of neurological manifestations. Severe neurological disorders are mostly seen in severe cases of COVID-19 and include acute cerebrovascular accidents (aCVA), acute necrotizing encephalopathy, and Guillain–Barré syndrome. Factors potentially complicating the course of COVID-19 and increasing the development of neurological complications include arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic cardiac and respiratory system diseases. Questions of the possible effects of human coronaviruses on the course of chronic progressive neurological diseases are addressed using multiple sclerosis (MS) as an example. We discuss the management of patients with aCVA and MS depending on the risk of developing coronavirus infection.
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30
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Kilic A, Ustunova S, Elibol B, Bulut H, Meral I, Sahin G. Angiotensin IV improves spatial memory in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by reducing oxidative stress and altering BDNF levels. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2021. [DOI: 10.21307/ane-2021-015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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31
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Miners S, Kehoe PG, Love S. Cognitive impact of COVID-19: looking beyond the short term. Alzheimers Res Ther 2020; 12:170. [PMID: 33380345 PMCID: PMC7772800 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-020-00744-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory disease but up to two thirds of hospitalised patients show evidence of central nervous system (CNS) damage, predominantly ischaemic, in some cases haemorrhagic and occasionally encephalitic. It is unclear how much of the ischaemic damage is mediated by direct or inflammatory effects of virus on the CNS vasculature and how much is secondary to extracranial cardiorespiratory disease. Limited data suggest that the causative SARS-CoV-2 virus may enter the CNS via the nasal mucosa and olfactory fibres, or by haematogenous spread, and is capable of infecting endothelial cells, pericytes and probably neurons. Extracranially, SARS-CoV-2 targets endothelial cells and pericytes, causing endothelial cell dysfunction, vascular leakage and immune activation, sometimes leading to disseminated intravascular coagulation. It remains to be confirmed whether endothelial cells and pericytes in the cerebral vasculature are similarly targeted. Several aspects of COVID-19 are likely to impact on cognition. Cerebral white matter is particularly vulnerable to ischaemic damage in COVID-19 and is also critically important for cognitive function. There is accumulating evidence that cerebral hypoperfusion accelerates amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation and is linked to tau and TDP-43 pathology, and by inducing phosphorylation of α-synuclein at serine-129, ischaemia may also increase the risk of development of Lewy body disease. Current therapies for COVID-19 are understandably focused on supporting respiratory function, preventing thrombosis and reducing immune activation. Since angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 is a receptor for SARS-CoV-2, and ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are predicted to increase ACE-2 expression, it was initially feared that their use might exacerbate COVID-19. Recent meta-analyses have instead suggested that these medications are protective. This is perhaps because SARS-CoV-2 entry may deplete ACE-2, tipping the balance towards angiotensin II-ACE-1-mediated classical RAS activation: exacerbating hypoperfusion and promoting inflammation. It may be relevant that APOE ε4 individuals, who seem to be at increased risk of COVID-19, also have lowest ACE-2 activity. COVID-19 is likely to leave an unexpected legacy of long-term neurological complications in a significant number of survivors. Cognitive follow-up of COVID-19 patients will be important, especially in patients who develop cerebrovascular and neurological complications during the acute illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Miners
- Dementia Research Group, Bristol Medical School (THS), University of Bristol, Learning & Research level 1, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK.
| | - Patrick G Kehoe
- Dementia Research Group, Bristol Medical School (THS), University of Bristol, Learning & Research level 1, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Seth Love
- Dementia Research Group, Bristol Medical School (THS), University of Bristol, Learning & Research level 1, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK.
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32
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Ashraf UM, Abokor AA, Edwards JM, Waigi EW, Royfman RS, Hasan SAM, Smedlund KB, Hardy AMG, Chakravarti R, Koch LG. SARS-CoV-2, ACE2 expression, and systemic organ invasion. Physiol Genomics 2020; 53:51-60. [PMID: 33275540 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00087.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19, has created a global pandemic in 2020, posing an enormous challenge to healthcare systems and affected communities. COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronavirus-2 (CoV-2) that manifests as bronchitis, pneumonia, or a severe respiratory illness. SARS-CoV-2 infects human cells via binding a "spike" protein on its surface to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) within the host. ACE2 is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis and negatively regulates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in humans. The RAAS is paramount for normal function in multiple organ systems including the lungs, heart, kidney, and vasculature. Given that SARS-CoV-2 internalizes via ACE2, the resultant disruption in ACE2 expression can lead to altered tissue function and exacerbate chronic diseases. The widespread distribution and expression of ACE2 across multiple organs is critical to our understanding of the varied clinical outcomes of COVID-19. This perspective review based on the current literature was prompted to show how disruption of ACE2 by SARS-CoV-2 can affect different organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usman M Ashraf
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Ahmed A Abokor
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Jonnelle M Edwards
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Emily W Waigi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Rachel S Royfman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Syed Abdul-Moiz Hasan
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Kathryn B Smedlund
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Ana Maria Gregio Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Ritu Chakravarti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Lauren Gerard Koch
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio
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33
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Salamanna F, Maglio M, Landini MP, Fini M. Body Localization of ACE-2: On the Trail of the Keyhole of SARS-CoV-2. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:594495. [PMID: 33344479 PMCID: PMC7744810 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.594495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The explosion of the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has brought the role of the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) back into the scientific limelight. Since SARS-CoV-2 must bind the ACE2 for entering the host cells in humans, its expression and body localization are critical to track the potential target organ of this infection and to outline disease progression and clinical outcomes. Here, we mapped the physiological body distribution, expression, and activities of ACE2 and discussed its potential correlations and mutal interactions with the disparate symptoms present in SARS-CoV-2 patients at the level of different organs. We highlighted that despite during SARS-CoV-2 infection ACE2-expressing organs may become direct targets, leading to severe pathological manifestations, and subsequent multiple organ failures, the exact mechanism and the potential interactions through which ACE2 acts in these organs is still heavily debated. Further scientific efforts, also considering a personalized approach aimed to consider specific patient differences in the mutual interactions ACE2-SARS-CoV-2 and the long-term health effects associated with COVID-19 are currently mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Salamanna
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Melania Maglio
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Landini
- Scientific Direction, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Milena Fini
- Surgical Sciences and Technologies, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
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Panariello F, Cellini L, Speciani M, De Ronchi D, Atti AR. How Does SARS-CoV-2 Affect the Central Nervous System? A Working Hypothesis. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:582345. [PMID: 33304284 PMCID: PMC7701095 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.582345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Interstitial pneumonia was the first manifestation to be recognized as caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); however, in just a few weeks, it became clear that the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) overrun tissues and more body organs than just the lungs, so much so that it could be considered a systemic pathology. Several studies reported the involvement of the conjunctiva, the gut, the heart and its pace, and vascular injuries such as thromboembolic complications and Kawasaki disease in children and toddlers were also described. More recently, it was reported that in a sample of 214 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, 36.4% complained of neurological symptoms ranging from non-specific manifestations (dizziness, headache, and seizures), to more specific symptoms such hyposmia or hypogeusia, and stroke. Older individuals, especially males with comorbidities, appear to be at the highest risk of developing such severe complications related to the Central Nervous System (CNS) involvement. Neuropsychiatric manifestations in COVID-19 appear to develop in patients with and without pre-existing neurological disorders. Growing evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 binds to the human Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) for the attachment and entrance inside host cells. By describing ACE2 and the whole Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System (RAAS) we may better understand whether specific cell types may be affected by SARS-CoV-2 and whether their functioning can be disrupted in case of an infection. Since clear evidences of neurological interest have already been shown, by clarifying the topographical distribution and density of ACE2, we will be able to speculate how SARS-CoV-2 may affect the CNS and what is the pathogenetic mechanism by which it contributes to the specific clinical manifestations of the disease. Based on such evidences, we finally hypothesize the process of SARS-CoV-2 invasion of the CNS and provide a possible explanation for the onset or the exacerbation of some common neuropsychiatric disorders in the elderly including cognitive impairment and Alzheimer disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Panariello
- Department of Mental Health, Local Health Authorities, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cellini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Psychiatry, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Speciani
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Psychiatry, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Diana De Ronchi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Psychiatry, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Atti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Psychiatry, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
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35
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Briguglio M, Porta M, Zuffada F, Bona AR, Crespi T, Pino F, Perazzo P, Mazzocchi M, Giorgino R, De Angelis G, Ielasi A, De Blasio G, Turiel M. SARS-CoV-2 Aiming for the Heart: A Multicenter Italian Perspective About Cardiovascular Issues in COVID-19. Front Physiol 2020; 11:571367. [PMID: 33240098 PMCID: PMC7677571 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.571367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the high fatality rate of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been putting a strain on the world since December 2019. Infected individuals exhibit unpredictable symptoms that tend to worsen if age is advanced, a state of malnutrition persists, or if cardiovascular comorbidities are present. Once transmitted, the virus affects the lungs and in predisposed individuals can elicit a sequela of fatal cardiovascular consequences. We aim to present the pathophysiology of COVID-19, emphasizing the major cellular and clinical manifestations from a cardiological perspective. As a roaming viral particle or more likely via the Trojan horse route, SARS-CoV-2 can access different parts of the body. Cardiovascular features of COVID-19 can count myocardial injuries, vasculitis-like syndromes, and atherothrombotic manifestations. Deviations in the normal electrocardiogram pattern could hide pericardial effusion or cardiac inflammation, and dispersed microthrombi can cause ischemic damages, stroke, or even medullary reflex dysfunctions. Tailored treatment for reduced ejection fraction, arrhythmias, coronary syndromes, macrothrombosis and microthrombosis, and autonomic dysfunctions is mandatory. Confidently, evidence-based therapies for this multifaceted nevertheless purely cardiological COVID-19 will emerge after the global assessment of different approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Briguglio
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Scientific Direction, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Porta
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Neurology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alberto R Bona
- ICCS Istituto Clinico Città Studi, Neurosurgery Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziano Crespi
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Intensive Care Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Pino
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Intensive Care Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Perazzo
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Intensive Care Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Mazzocchi
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Intensive Care Unit, Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Giorgino
- University of Milan, Residency Program in Orthopedics and Traumatology, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alfonso Ielasi
- Istituto Clinico Sant'Ambrogio, Cardiology Unit, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Turiel
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Cardiology Unit, Milan, Italy
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Bouças AP, Rheinheimer J, Lagopoulos J. Why Severe COVID-19 Patients Are at Greater Risk of Developing Depression: A Molecular Perspective. Neuroscientist 2020; 28:11-19. [PMID: 33135582 DOI: 10.1177/1073858420967892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The prevailing evidence suggests that patients with severe COVID-19 seem to have an overreaction of the immune system demonstrating exacerbated levels of inflammation caused by a "cytokine storm." At this early stage, the mechanisms underpinning COVID-19 are still subject to intense scrutiny and the long-term mental health consequences as a result of the disease are unknown. Here we discuss the hypothesis that patients who survive severe COVID-19 and who experience significant activation of the immune system, are at greater risk of developing depression. We posit that a phenomenon known as cytokine storm dramatically activates the enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO-1), resulting in the increase in kynurenine metabolites. Kynurenine is metabolized by IDO-1 in the brain, producing chemokines, in which a prolonged exposure may result long-term brain impairment. In this article, we also propose the possibility that a SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion increases the local levels of angiotensin II by angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 down-regulation. Thereby, angiotensin II could increase kynurenine metabolites producing pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory effects, resulting in impairment of cognitive function, enhanced oxidative stress and decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor. It is our premise that patients who experience such a cytokine storm may be at increased risk of long-term mental illness, such as depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P Bouças
- Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jakeline Rheinheimer
- Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences: Endocrinology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Jim Lagopoulos
- Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
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Jia H, Yue X, Lazartigues E. ACE2 mouse models: a toolbox for cardiovascular and pulmonary research. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5165. [PMID: 33057007 PMCID: PMC7560817 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18880-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been identified as the host entry receptor for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. ACE2 is a regulatory enzyme of the renin-angiotensin system and has protective functions in many cardiovascular, pulmonary and metabolic diseases. This review summarizes available murine models with systemic or organ-specific deletion of ACE2, or with overexpression of murine or human ACE2. The purpose of this review is to provide researchers with the genetic tools available for further understanding of ACE2 biology and for the investigation of ACE2 in the pathogenesis and treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongpeng Jia
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Xinping Yue
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Eric Lazartigues
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA. .,Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA. .,Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care Systems, New Orleans, LA, 70119, USA.
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Singal CMS, Jaiswal P, Seth P. SARS-CoV-2, More than a Respiratory Virus: Its Potential Role in Neuropathogenesis. ACS Chem Neurosci 2020; 11:1887-1899. [PMID: 32491829 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has emerged as one of the major outbreaks to be mentioned in history in coming times. Like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a respiratory virus infecting the lungs with fever, dry cough, and acute pneumonia being the major symptoms. It infects epithelial cells expressing angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, which is crucial for viral entry. Based on evolving clinical evidence, it is now unfitting to label SARS-CoV-2 as just a respiratory virus, as lately there are various reports that substantiate its pathogenicity in other organs of the body, including brain. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in comparison to SARS and MERS along with possibilities of viral entry into central nervous system (CNS) tissues. The review provides detailed information about the virulence, epidemiology, and insights into molecular pathways involved in the infectivity of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, along with an in-depth view of current concepts about the neurological significance of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and its neuropathological competence. The review also touches upon our current understanding of placental transmission of SARS-CoV-2, an important aspect of vertical transmission. Furthermore, the review provides a current update on strategies that have been used, are being used, or are under trial for treating the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paritosh Jaiswal
- Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience, National Brain Research Centre, Manesar, Gurgaon, Haryana 122052, India
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39
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Buford TW, Sun Y, Roberts LM, Banerjee A, Peramsetty S, Knighton A, Verma A, Morgan D, Torres GE, Li Q, Carter CS. Angiotensin (1-7) delivered orally via probiotic, but not subcutaneously, benefits the gut-brain axis in older rats. GeroScience 2020; 42:1307-1321. [PMID: 32451847 PMCID: PMC7525634 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-020-00196-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To (1) investigate the efficacy of multiple doses of an orally delivered probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus paracasei (LP) modified to express angiotensin (1-7) (LP-A) in altering physiologic parameters relevant to the gut-brain axis in older rats and to (2) compare this strategy with subcutaneous delivery of synthetic Ang(1-7) peptide on circulating Ang(1-7) concentrations and these gut-brain axis parameters. Male 24-month-old F344BN rats received oral gavage of LP-A, or subcutaneous injection of Ang(1-7) for 0×, 1×, 3×, or 7×/week over 4 weeks. Circulating RAS analytes, inflammatory cytokines, and tryptophan and its downstream metabolites were measured by ELISA, electrochemiluminescence, and LC-MS respectively. Microbiome taxonomic analysis of fecal samples was performed via 16S-based PCR. Inflammatory and tryptophan-related mRNA expression was measured in colon and pre-frontal cortex. All dosing regimens of LP-A induced beneficial changes in fecal microbiome including overall microbiota community structure and α-diversity, while the 3×/week also significantly increased expression of the anti-inflammatory species Akkermansia muciniphila. The 3×/week also increased serum serotonin and the neuroprotective analyte 2-picolinic acid. In the colon, LP-A increased quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase expression (1×/week) and increased kynurenine aminotransferase II (1× and 3×/week) mRNA expression. LP-A also significantly reduced neuro-inflammatory gene expression in the pre-frontal cortex (3×/week: COX2, IL-1β, and TNFα; 7×/week: COX2 and IL-1β). Subcutaneous delivery of Ang(1-7) increased circulating Ang(1-7) and reduced angiotensin II, but most gut-brain parameters were unchanged in response. Oral-but not subcutaneous-Ang(1-7) altered physiologic parameters related to gut-brain axis, with the most effects observed in 3×/week oral dosing regimen in older rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W. Buford
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Lisa M. Roberts
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Anisha Banerjee
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Sujitha Peramsetty
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Anthony Knighton
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
| | - Amrisha Verma
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Drake Morgan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Gonzalo E. Torres
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Biomedical Sciences, City College of New York, New York, NY USA
| | - Qiuhong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Christy S. Carter
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA ,Integrative Center for Aging Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL USA
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40
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Evans CE, Miners JS, Piva G, Willis CL, Heard DM, Kidd EJ, Good MA, Kehoe PG. ACE2 activation protects against cognitive decline and reduces amyloid pathology in the Tg2576 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol 2020; 139:485-502. [PMID: 31982938 PMCID: PMC7035243 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-019-02098-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mid-life hypertension and cerebrovascular dysfunction are associated with increased risk of later life dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The classical renin–angiotensin system (cRAS), a physiological regulator of blood pressure, functions independently within the brain and is overactive in AD. cRAS-targeting anti-hypertensive drugs are associated with reduced incidence of AD, delayed onset of cognitive decline, and reduced levels of Aβ and tau in both animal models and human pathological studies. cRAS activity is moderated by a downstream regulatory RAS pathway (rRAS), which is underactive in AD and is strongly associated with pathological hallmarks in human AD, and cognitive decline in animal models of CNS disease. We now show that enhancement of brain ACE2 activity, a major effector of rRAS, by intraperitoneal administration of diminazene aceturate (DIZE), an established activator of ACE2, lowered hippocampal Aβ and restored cognition in mid-aged (13–14-month-old) symptomatic Tg2576 mice. We confirmed that the protective effects of DIZE were directly mediated through ACE2 and were associated with reduced hippocampal soluble Aβ42 and IL1-β levels. DIZE restored hippocampal MasR levels in conjunction with increased NMDA NR2B and downstream ERK signalling expression in hippocampal synaptosomes from Tg2576 mice. Chronic (10 weeks) administration of DIZE to pre-symptomatic 9–10-month-old Tg2576 mice, and acute (10 days) treatment in cognitively impaired 12–13-month-old mice, prevented the development of cognitive impairment. Together these data demonstrate that ACE2 enhancement protects against and reverses amyloid-related hippocampal pathology and cognitive impairment in a preclinical model of AD.
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Telmisartan/17β-estradiol mitigated cognitive deficit in an ovariectomized rat model of Alzheimer's disease: Modulation of ACE1/ACE2 and AT1/AT2 ratio. Life Sci 2020; 245:117388. [PMID: 32007576 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The higher incidence rate of Alzheimer's disease (AD) among women has led to explorations on the association between estrogen deficiency and AD. Also, usage of antihypertensive drugs has been suggested to reduce the incidence of AD in elderly hypertensive patients. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of telmisartan and/or 17β-estradiol on a cognitively impaired ovariectomized rat model of AD. MAIN METHODS 75 female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five groups. One group was sham operated and the other four groups were subjected to ovariectomy, received D-galactose and either untreated or treated with telmisartan and/or 17β-estradiol for 6 weeks. KEY FINDINGS Ovariectomized rats showed cognitive impairment in Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests, increasing inflammatory biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β), increasing AD biomarkers (amyloid beta1-42, and acetylcholine esterase), and over activation of classical arm of renin angiotensin system (RAS) (ACE1/Ang2/AT1) in hippocampi. Also, hippocampi histopathological examination revealed amyloid beta deposition. Whereas, administration of telmisartan and/or 17β-estradiol improved animals' behavior, alleviated histopathological alterations and reduced the level of inflammatory and AD biomarkers, modulated RAS activity favoring the novel neuroprotective arm (ACE2/Ang(1-7)/MasR). SIGNIFICANCE Our findings suggest that combined administration of both drugs has synergetic neuroprotective effects; supporting their potential application in AD treatment.
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42
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Gusev E, Martynov M, Boyko A, Voznyuk I, Latsh N, Sivertseva S, Spirin N, Shamalov N. Novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and nervous system involvement: pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, organization of neurological care. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2020; 120:7-16. [DOI: 10.17116/jnevro20201200617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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43
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Simões E Silva AC, Miranda AS, Rocha NP, Teixeira AL. Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Chronic Kidney Disease. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:932. [PMID: 31474869 PMCID: PMC6707423 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, and cognitive impairment are prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). These conditions often make worse the quality of life and also lead to longer hospitalizations and higher mortality. Over the past decades, some hypotheses have tried to explain the connection between CKD and neuropsychiatric disorders. The most common hypothesis is based on the occurrence of cerebrovascular disease and accumulated uremic toxins in adult patients with CKD. However, the lack of a direct association between known vascular risk factors (e.g., diabetes and hypertension) with CKD-related cognitive deficits suggests that other mechanisms may also play a role in the pathophysiology shared by renal and neuropsychiatric diseases. This hypothesis is corroborated by the occurrence of neuropsychiatric comorbidities in pediatric patients with CKD preceding vascular damage, and the inconsistent findings on neuroprotective effects of antihypertensives. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize clinical evidence and potential mechanisms that links CKD and brain disorders, specifically in regard to cognitive impairment, anxiety, and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aline Silva Miranda
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, UFMG, Houston, Brazil
| | - Natalia Pessoa Rocha
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Neuropsychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Antônio Lúcio Teixeira
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Neuropsychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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44
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Quitterer U, AbdAlla S. Improvements of symptoms of Alzheimer`s disease by inhibition of the angiotensin system. Pharmacol Res 2019; 154:104230. [PMID: 30991105 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
With ageing of the global society, the frequency of ageing-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer`s disease (AD) is on the rise worldwide. Currently, there is no cure for AD, and the four drugs approved for AD only have very small effects on AD symptoms. Consequently, there are enormous efforts worldwide to identify new targets for treatment of AD. Approaches that interfere with classical neuropathologic features of AD, such as extracellular senile plaques formed of aggregated amyloid-beta (Abeta), and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated tau have not been successful so far. In search for a treatment approach of AD, we found that inhibition of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) by a centrally acting ACE inhibitor retards symptoms of neurodegeneration, Abeta plaque formation and tau hyperphosphorylation in experimental models of AD. Our approach is currently being investigated in a clinical setting. Initial evidence with AD patients shows that a brain-penetrating ACE inhibitor counteracts the process of neurodegeneration and dementia. Moreover, centrally acting ACE inhibitors given in addition to the standard therapy, cholinesterase inhibition, can improve cognitive function of AD patients for several months. This is one of the most promising results for AD treatment since more than a decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Quitterer
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland; Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Said AbdAlla
- Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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45
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Santos RAS. Genetic Models. ANGIOTENSIN-(1-7) 2019. [PMCID: PMC7120897 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-22696-1_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Genetically altered rat and mouse models have been instrumental in the functional analysis of genes in a physiological context. In particular, studies on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) have profited from this technology in the past. In this review, we summarize the existing animal models for the protective axis of the RAS consisting of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), angiotensin-(1-7)(Ang-(1-7), and its receptor Mas. With the help of models with altered expression of the components of this axis in the brain and cardiovascular organs, its physiological and pathophysiological functions have been elucidated. Thus, novel opportunities for therapeutic interventions in cardiovascular diseases were revealed targeting ACE2 or Mas.
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Alenina N, Bader M. ACE2 in Brain Physiology and Pathophysiology: Evidence from Transgenic Animal Models. Neurochem Res 2018; 44:1323-1329. [PMID: 30443713 PMCID: PMC7089194 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-018-2679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a protein consisting of two domains, the N-terminus is a carboxypeptidase homologous to ACE and the C-terminus is homologous to collectrin and responsible for the trafficking of the neutral amino acid transporter B(0)AT1 to the plasma membrane of gut epithelial cells. The carboxypeptidase domain not only metabolizes angiotensin II to angiotensin-(1–7), but also other peptide substrates, such as apelin, kinins and morphins. In addition, the collectrin domain regulates the levels of some amino acids in the blood, in particular of tryptophan. Therefore it is of no surprise that animals with genetic alterations in the expression of ACE2 develop a diverse pattern of phenotypes ranging from hypertension, metabolic and behavioural dysfunctions, to impairments in serotonin synthesis and neurogenesis. This review summarizes the phenotypes of such animals with a particular focus on the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Alenina
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Bader
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13125, Berlin, Germany.
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany.
- Charité - University Medicine, Berlin, Germany.
- Institute for Biology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
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Masoumi J, Abbasloui M, Parvan R, Mohammadnejad D, Pavon-Djavid G, Barzegari A, Abdolalizadeh J. Apelin, a promising target for Alzheimer disease prevention and treatment. Neuropeptides 2018; 70:76-86. [PMID: 29807653 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with high outbreak rates. It is estimated that about 35 million individuals around the world suffered from dementia in 2010. AD is expected to increase twofold every 20 years and, by 2030, approximately 65 million people could suffer from this illness. AD is determined clinically by a cognitive impairment and pathologically by the production of amyloid beta (Aβ), neurofibrillary tangles, toxic free radicals and inflammatory mediators in the brain. There is still no treatment to cure or even alter the progressive course of this disease; however, many new therapies are being investigated and are at various stages of clinical trials. Neuropeptides are signaling molecules used by neurons to communicate with each other. One of the important neuropeptides is apelin, which can be isolated from bovine stomach. Apelin and its receptor APJ have been shown to broadly disseminate in the neurons and oligodendrocytes of the central nervous system. Apelin-13 is known to be the predominant neuropeptide in neuroprotection. It is involved in the processes of memory and learning as well as the prevention of neuronal damage. Studies have shown that apelin can directly or indirectly prevent the production of Aβ and reduce its amounts by increasing its degradation. Phosphorylation and accumulation of tau protein may also be inhibited by apelin. Apelin is considered as an anti-inflammatory agent by preventing the production of inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha. It has been shown that in vivo and in vitro anti-apoptotic effects of apelin have prevented the death of neurons. In this review, we describe the various functions of apelin associated with AD and present an integrated overview of recent findings that, in general, recommend apelin as a promising therapeutic agent in the treatment of this ailment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Masoumi
- Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Morteza Abbasloui
- Paramedical Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Parvan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | | | - Abolfazl Barzegari
- Research Centre for Pharmaceotical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University (Medical Sciences), Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalal Abdolalizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Paramedical Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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48
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The depressor axis of the renin–angiotensin system and brain disorders: a translational approach. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:1021-1038. [DOI: 10.1042/cs20180189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
All the components of the classic renin–angiotensin system (RAS) have been identified in the brain. Today, the RAS is considered to be composed mainly of two axes: the pressor axis, represented by angiotensin (Ang) II/angiotensin-converting enzyme/AT1 receptors, and the depressor and protective one, represented by Ang-(1–7)/ angiotensin-converting enzyme 2/Mas receptors. Although the RAS exerts a pivotal role on electrolyte homeostasis and blood pressure regulation, their components are also implicated in higher brain functions, including cognition, memory, anxiety and depression, and several neurological disorders. Overactivity of the pressor axis of the RAS has been implicated in stroke and several brain disorders, such as cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer or Parkinson’s disease. The present review is focused on the role of the protective axis of the RAS in brain disorders beyond its effects on blood pressure regulation. Furthermore, the use of drugs targeting centrally RAS and its beneficial effects on brain disorders are also discussed.
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49
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Kamel AS, Abdelkader NF, Abd El-Rahman SS, Emara M, Zaki HF, Khattab MM. Stimulation of ACE2/ANG(1–7)/Mas Axis by Diminazene Ameliorates Alzheimer’s Disease in the D-Galactose-Ovariectomized Rat Model: Role of PI3K/Akt Pathway. Mol Neurobiol 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-0966-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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50
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Higaki A, Mogi M, Iwanami J, Min LJ, Bai HY, Shan BS, Kukida M, Yamauchi T, Tsukuda K, Kan-No H, Ikeda S, Higaki J, Horiuchi M. Beneficial Effect of Mas Receptor Deficiency on Vascular Cognitive Impairment in the Presence of Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor. J Am Heart Assoc 2018; 7:JAHA.117.008121. [PMID: 29431106 PMCID: PMC5850265 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.117.008121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The classical renin-angiotensin system is known as the angiotensin (Ang)-converting enzyme/Ang II/Ang type 1 receptor axis, which induces various organ damage including cognitive decline. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis is known to exert antagonistic actions against the classical renin-angiotensin system axis in the cardiovascular system. However, its roles in the brain remain unclear. We examined possible roles of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2/Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis in cognitive function, employing vascular cognitive impairment model mice. METHODS AND RESULTS Male 10-week-old C57BL6 (wild-type mice, Mas1 knockout mice, Ang II type 2 receptor knockout mice, and Ang II type 2 receptor/Mas1 double knockout mice were subjected to bilateral carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) surgery. Six weeks after treatment, they were subjected to cognitive tasks. Brain samples were used for histopathological analysis. Cognitive function was significantly impaired in wild-type and double knockout mice after BCAS. On the other hand, the cognitive function of Mas1 knockout mice was maintained in spite of the reduction of cerebral blood flow with BCAS. Total cell number in the dentate gyrus region was significantly reduced after BCAS in wild-type but not in Mas1 knockout mice. The number of doublecortin-positive cells in the subgranular zone was not significantly different between wild-type and Mas1 knockout mice. Ang-(1-7) administration did not improve cognitive function in all mice after BCAS surgery. CONCLUSIONS Lack of the Mas receptor may have a protective effect against chronic brain ischemia when the Ang II type 2 receptor exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akinori Higaki
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan.,Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Hypertension and Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Masaki Mogi
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Jun Iwanami
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Li-Juan Min
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Hui-Yu Bai
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Bao-Shuai Shan
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Kukida
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan.,Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Hypertension and Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Yamauchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Kana Tsukuda
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Harumi Kan-No
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Ikeda
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Hypertension and Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Jitsuo Higaki
- Department of Cardiology, Pulmonology, Hypertension and Nephrology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Masatsugu Horiuchi
- Department of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology and Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Tohon, Ehime, Japan
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