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Maltan L, Najjar H, Tiffner A, Derler I. Deciphering Molecular Mechanisms and Intervening in Physiological and Pathophysiological Processes of Ca 2+ Signaling Mechanisms Using Optogenetic Tools. Cells 2021; 10:3340. [PMID: 34943850 PMCID: PMC8699489 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium ion channels are involved in numerous biological functions such as lymphocyte activation, muscle contraction, neurotransmission, excitation, hormone secretion, gene expression, cell migration, memory, and aging. Therefore, their dysfunction can lead to a wide range of cellular abnormalities and, subsequently, to diseases. To date various conventional techniques have provided valuable insights into the roles of Ca2+ signaling. However, their limited spatiotemporal resolution and lack of reversibility pose significant obstacles in the detailed understanding of the structure-function relationship of ion channels. These drawbacks could be partially overcome by the use of optogenetics, which allows for the remote and well-defined manipulation of Ca2+-signaling. Here, we review the various optogenetic tools that have been used to achieve precise control over different Ca2+-permeable ion channels and receptors and associated downstream signaling cascades. We highlight the achievements of optogenetics as well as the still-open questions regarding the resolution of ion channel working mechanisms. In addition, we summarize the successes of optogenetics in manipulating many Ca2+-dependent biological processes both in vitro and in vivo. In summary, optogenetics has significantly advanced our understanding of Ca2+ signaling proteins and the used tools provide an essential basis for potential future therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Isabella Derler
- Institute of Biophysics, JKU Life Science Center, Johannes Kepler University Linz, A-4020 Linz, Austria; (L.M.); (H.N.); (A.T.)
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Yin J, Yang L, Mou L, Dong K, Jiang J, Xue S, Xu Y, Wang X, Lu Y, Ye H. A green tea-triggered genetic control system for treating diabetes in mice and monkeys. Sci Transl Med 2020; 11:11/515/eaav8826. [PMID: 31645456 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aav8826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cell-based therapies are recognized as the next frontier in medicine, but the translation of many promising technologies into the clinic is currently limited by a lack of remote-control inducers that are safe and can be tightly regulated. Here, we developed therapeutically active engineered cells regulated by a control system that is responsive to protocatechuic acid (PCA), a metabolite found in green tea. We constructed multiple genetic control technologies that could toggle a PCA-responsive ON/OFF switch based on a transcriptional repressor from Streptomyces coelicolor We demonstrated that PCA-controlled switches can be used for guide RNA expression-mediated control of the CRISPR-Cas9 systems for gene editing and epigenetic remodeling. We showed how these technologies could be used as implantable biocomputers in live mice to perform complex logic computations that integrated signals from multiple food metabolites. Last, we used our system to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes in mice and cynomolgus monkeys. This biocompatible and versatile food phenolic acid-controlled transgenic device opens opportunities for dynamic interventions in gene- and cell-based precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianli Yin
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Linfeng Yang
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Lisha Mou
- Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518035, China
| | - Kaili Dong
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jian Jiang
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Shuai Xue
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Xinyi Wang
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Shenzhen Xenotransplantation Medical Engineering Research and Development Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518035, China
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, Biomedical Synthetic Biology Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China.
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Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other metabolic diseases are essential links in the structure of morbidity and mortality in the modern world. The accepted strategy for the correction of T2DM and insulin resistance is drug therapy aimed at delivering insulin from the outside, stimulating the secretion of own insulin and reducing the concentration of blood glucose. However, modern studies demonstrate a great potential for the use of gene therapy approaches for the correction of T2DM and insulin resistance. In the present review, the main variants of plasmid gene therapy of T2DM using the genes of adiponectin and type 1 glucagon-like peptide, as well as the main variants of viral gene therapy of T2DM using the genes of type 1 and leptin are considered. T2DM gene therapy is currently not ready to enter into routine clinical practice, but, subject to improvements in delivery systems, it can be a powerful link in combination therapy for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu S Stafeev
- National Medical Research Centre for Cardiology of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.,M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - M Yu Menshikov
- National Medical Research Centre for Cardiology of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ye V Parfyonova
- National Medical Research Centre for Cardiology of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.,M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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Tasyurek HM, Altunbas HA, Balci MK, Griffith TS, Sanlioglu S. Therapeutic Potential of Lentivirus-Mediated Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Gene Therapy for Diabetes. Hum Gene Ther 2018; 29:802-815. [PMID: 29409356 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2017.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Postprandial glucose-induced insulin secretion from the islets of Langerhans is facilitated by glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)-a metabolic hormone with insulinotropic properties. Among the variety of effects it mediates, GLP-1 induces delta cell secretion of somatostatin, inhibits alpha cell release of glucagon, reduces gastric emptying, and slows food intake. These events collectively contribute to weight loss over time. During type 2 diabetes (T2DM), however, the incretin response to glucose is reduced and accompanied by a moderate reduction in GLP-1 secretion. To compensate for the reduced incretin effect, a human immunodeficiency virus-based lentiviral vector was generated to deliver DNA encoding human GLP-1 (LentiGLP-1), and the anti-diabetic efficacy of LentiGLP-1 was tested in a high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced model of T2DM. Therapeutic administration of LentiGLP-1 reduced blood glucose levels in obese diabetic Sprague Dawley rats, along with improving insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. Normoglycemia was correlated with increased blood GLP-1 and pancreatic beta cell regeneration in LentiGLP-1-treated rats. Plasma triglyceride levels were also normalized after LentiGLP-1 injection. Collectively, these data suggest the clinical potential of GLP-1 gene transfer therapy for the treatment of T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hale M Tasyurek
- 1 Human Gene and Cell Therapy Center of Akdeniz University Hospitals , Antalya, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ali Altunbas
- 2 Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Kemal Balci
- 2 Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Thomas S Griffith
- 3 Department of Urology, University of Minnesota , School of Medicine, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Salih Sanlioglu
- 1 Human Gene and Cell Therapy Center of Akdeniz University Hospitals , Antalya, Turkey
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Fang Y, Liu X, Zhao L, Wei Z, Jiang D, Shao H, Zang Y, Xu J, Wang Q, Liu Y, Peng Y, Yin X. RhGLP-1 (7-36) protects diabetic rats against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury via up-regulating expression of Nrf2/HO-1 and increasing the activities of SOD. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 21:475-485. [PMID: 28883752 PMCID: PMC5587598 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2017.21.5.475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the neuroprotective effect and possible mechanisms of rhGLP-1 (7–36) against transient ischemia/reperfusion injuries induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in type 2 diabetic rats. First, diabetic rats were established by a combination of a high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin (STZ) (30 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). Second, they were subjected to MCAO for 2 h, then treated with rhGLP-1 (7–36) (10, 20, 40 µg/kg i.p.) at the same time of reperfusion. In the following 3 days, they were injected with rhGLP-1 (7–36) at the same dose and route for three times each day. After 72 h, hypoglycemic effects were assessed by blood glucose changes, and neuroprotective effects were evaluated by neurological deficits, infarct volume and histomorphology. Mechanisms were investigated by detecting the distribution and expression of the nuclear factor erythroid-derived factor 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) in ischemic brain tissue, the levels of phospho-PI3 kinase (PI3K)/PI3K ratio and heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-l), as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA). Our results showed that rhGLP-1 (7–36) significantly reduced blood glucose and infarction volume, alleviated neurological deficits, enhanced the density of surviving neurons and vascular proliferation. The nuclear positive cells ratio and expression of Nrf2, the levels of P-PI3K/PI3K ratio and HO-l increased, the activities of SOD increased and the contents of MDA decreased. The current results indicated the protective effect of rhGLP-1 (7–36) in diabetic rats following MCAO/R that may be concerned with reducing blood glucose, up-regulating expression of Nrf2/HO-1 and increasing the activities of SOD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Xiaofang Liu
- Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Libo Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Zhongna Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou Orthopedics Hospital, Guizhou 550002, China
| | - Daoli Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
| | - Hua Shao
- Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yannan Zang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Jia Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Mawangdui Hospital, Changsha 410016, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Ye Peng
- Department of oncology, Harrison International Peace Hospital, Hengshui 053000, China
| | - Xiaoxing Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China
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Ito K, Ookawara S, Ishibashi K, Morishita Y. Transgene and islet cell delivery systems using nano-sized carriers for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. NANO REVIEWS & EXPERIMENTS 2017; 8:1341758. [PMID: 30410709 PMCID: PMC6167029 DOI: 10.1080/20022727.2017.1341758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy that targets the pancreas and intestines with delivery systems using nano-sized carriers such as viral and non-viral vectors could improve the control of blood glucose levels, resulting in an improved prognosis for patients with diabetes mellitus. Allogenic pancreatic islet cell transplantations using such delivery systems have been developed as therapeutic options for diabetes mellitus. This review focuses on transgenes and islet cell delivery systems using nano-sized carriers for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyonori Ito
- Division of Nephrology, First Department of Integrated Medicine, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Susumu Ookawara
- Division of Nephrology, First Department of Integrated Medicine, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kenichi Ishibashi
- Department of Medical Physiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Morishita
- Division of Nephrology, First Department of Integrated Medicine, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University, Saitama, Japan
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Wu T, Xiang J, Shan W, Li M, Zhou W, Han X, Chen F. Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Inhibits Ethanol-Induced Apoptosis Through Neurod1 Regulating CHOP Expression in Pancreatic β-Cells. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2016; 299:573-82. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.23332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tijun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province; Nanjing Medical University; 140 Hanzhong Road Nanjing 210029 China
| | - Jie Xiang
- Department of Endocrinology; Wuxi People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University; Wuxi 214023 China
| | - Wei Shan
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province; Nanjing Medical University; 140 Hanzhong Road Nanjing 210029 China
| | - Mengxiao Li
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province; Nanjing Medical University; 140 Hanzhong Road Nanjing 210029 China
| | - Wenbo Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province; Nanjing Medical University; 140 Hanzhong Road Nanjing 210029 China
| | - Xiao Han
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province; Nanjing Medical University; 140 Hanzhong Road Nanjing 210029 China
| | - Fang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province; Nanjing Medical University; 140 Hanzhong Road Nanjing 210029 China
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Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 is an incretin hormone with several antidiabetic functions including stimulation of glucose-dependent insulin secretion, increase in insulin gene expression and beta-cell survival. Despite the initial technical difficulties and profound inefficiency of direct gene transfer into the pancreas that seriously restricted in vivo gene transfer experiments with GLP-1, recent exploitation of various routes of gene delivery and alternative means of gene transfer has permitted the detailed assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of GLP-1 in animal models of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). As a result, many clinical benefits of GLP-1 peptide/analogues observed in clinical trials involving induction of glucose tolerance, reduction of hyperglycaemia, suppression of appetite and food intake linked to weight loss have been replicated in animal models using gene therapy. Furthermore, GLP-1-centered gene therapy not only improved insulin sensitivity, but also reduced abdominal and/or hepatic fat associated with obesity-induced T2DM with drastic alterations in adipokine profiles in treated subjects. Thus, a comprehensive assessment of recent GLP-1-mediated gene therapy approaches with detailed analysis of current hurdles and resolutions, is discussed.
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Sakata S, Ito M, Mera Y, Sasase T, Yamamoto H, Kakutani M, Ohta T. JTT-130, a novel intestine-specific inhibitor of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, improves hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia independent of suppression of food intake in diabetic rats. J Diabetes Res 2014; 2014:803832. [PMID: 24895641 PMCID: PMC4033514 DOI: 10.1155/2014/803832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the effects of JTT-130 on glucose and lipid metabolism independent of the suppression of feeding by comparing with pair-fed animals. Male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats were divided into control, JTT-130 treatment, and pair-fed groups. The rats were fed with a regular powdered diet with or without JTT-130 as a food admixture for 6 weeks. We compared the effects on glucose and lipid metabolism in JTT-130 treatment group with those in pair-fed group. RESULTS. Hyperglycemia in ZDF rats was prevented in both JTT-130 treatment and pair-fed groups, but the prevention in pair-fed group became poor with time. Moreover, reduction in plasma cholesterol levels was observed only in JTT-130 treatment group. JTT-130 treatment group showed improved glucose tolerance at 5 weeks after treatment and significant elevation of portal glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels. The hepatic lipid content in JTT-130 treatment group was decreased as compared with pair-fed group. Furthermore, pancreatic protection effects, such as an increase in pancreatic weight and an elevation of insulin-positive area in islets, were observed after JTT-130 treatment. CONCLUSIONS. JTT-130 improves hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia via a mechanism independent of suppression of food intake, which is ascribed to an enhancement of GLP-1 secretion and a reduction of lipotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Sakata
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc., 1-1 Murasaki-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1125, Japan
| | - Makoto Ito
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc., 1-1 Murasaki-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1125, Japan
| | - Yasuko Mera
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc., 1-1 Murasaki-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1125, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Sasase
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc., 1-1 Murasaki-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1125, Japan
| | - Hiromi Yamamoto
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc., 1-1 Murasaki-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1125, Japan
| | - Makoto Kakutani
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc., 1-1 Murasaki-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1125, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ohta
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc., 1-1 Murasaki-cho, Takatsuki, Osaka 569-1125, Japan
- *Takeshi Ohta:
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Ryu K, Kim TI. Therapeutic gene delivery using bioreducible polymers. Arch Pharm Res 2013; 37:31-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-013-0275-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Heng BC, Aubel D, Fussenegger M. G protein-coupled receptors revisited: therapeutic applications inspired by synthetic biology. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2013; 54:227-49. [PMID: 24160705 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-011613-135921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) mediate the majority of cellular responses to hormones and neurotransmitters within the human body. They have much potential in the emerging field of synthetic biology, which is the rational, systematic design of biological systems with desired functionality. The responsiveness of GPCRs to a plethora of endogenous and exogenous ligands and stimuli make them ideal sensory receptor modules of synthetic gene networks. Such networks can activate target gene expression in response to a specific stimulus. Additionally, because GPCRs are important pharmacological targets of various human diseases, genes encoding their protein/peptide ligands can also be incorporated as target genes of the response output elements of synthetic gene networks. This review aims to critically examine the potential role of GPCRs in constructing therapeutic synthetic gene networks and to discuss various challenges in utilizing GPCRs for synthetic biology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boon Chin Heng
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland;
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Chae HY, Lee M, Hwang HJ, Kim HA, Kang JG, Kim CS, Lee SJ, Ihm SH. Improved transplantation outcome through delivery of DNA encoding secretion signal peptide-linked glucagon-like peptide-1 into mouse islets. Transpl Int 2013; 26:443-52. [DOI: 10.1111/tri.12052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Revised: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Young Chae
- Department of Internal Medicine; Hallym University College of Medicine; Chuncheon; Korea
| | - Minhyung Lee
- Department of Bioengineering; College of Engineering; Hanyang University; Seoul; Korea
| | - Hyo Jeong Hwang
- Department of Internal Medicine; Hallym University College of Medicine; Chuncheon; Korea
| | - Hyun Ah Kim
- Department of Bioengineering; College of Engineering; Hanyang University; Seoul; Korea
| | - Jun Goo Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine; Hallym University College of Medicine; Chuncheon; Korea
| | - Chul Sik Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine; Hallym University College of Medicine; Chuncheon; Korea
| | - Seong Jin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine; Hallym University College of Medicine; Chuncheon; Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Ihm
- Department of Internal Medicine; Hallym University College of Medicine; Chuncheon; Korea
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Wieland M, Fussenegger M. Reprogrammed cell delivery for personalized medicine. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2012; 64:1477-87. [PMID: 22721864 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2012.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2012] [Revised: 06/01/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In most approaches, personalized medicine requires time- and cost-intensive characterization of an individual's genetic background in order to achieve the best-adapted therapy. For this purpose, cell-based drug delivery offers a promising alternative. In particular, synthetic biology has introduced the vision of cells being programmable therapeutic production facilities that can be introduced into patients. This review highlights the progress made in synthetic biology-based cell engineering toward advanced drug delivery entities. Starting from basic one-input responsive transcriptional or post-transcriptional gene control systems, the field has reached a level on which cells can be engineered to detect cancer cells, to obtain control over T-cell proliferation, and to restore blood glucose homeostasis upon blue light illumination. Furthermore, a cellular implant was developed that detects blood urate level disorders and acts accordingly to restore homeostasis while another cellular implant was engineered as an artificial insemination device that releases bull sperm into bovine ovarian only during ovulation time by recording endogenous luteinizing hormone levels. Soon, the field will reach a stage at which cells can be reprogrammed to detect multiple metabolic parameters and self-sufficiently treat any disorder connected to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Wieland
- ETH Zurich, Department of Biosystems Science and Bioengineering (D-BSSE), Mattenstrasse 26, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
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14
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Wieland M, Fussenegger M. Engineering Molecular Circuits Using Synthetic Biology in Mammalian Cells. Annu Rev Chem Biomol Eng 2012; 3:209-34. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-chembioeng-061010-114145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Wieland
- Department of Biosystems Science and Bioengineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland; ,
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Bioengineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland; ,
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15
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Kim PH, Kim SW. Polymer-based delivery of glucagon-like Peptide-1 for the treatment of diabetes. ISRN ENDOCRINOLOGY 2012; 2012:340632. [PMID: 22701182 PMCID: PMC3369441 DOI: 10.5402/2012/340632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The incretin hormones, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and its receptor agonist (exendin-4), are well known for glucose homeostasis, insulinotropic effect, and effects on weight loss and food intake. However, due to the rapid degradation of GLP-1 by dipeptidylpeptidase-IV (DPP-IV) enzyme and renal elimination of exendin-4, their clinical applications have been restricted. Although exendin-4 has longer half-life than GLP-1, it still requires frequent injections to maintain efficacy for the treatment of diabetes. In recent decades, various polymeric delivery systems have been developed for the delivery of GLP-1 and exendin-4 genes or peptides for their long-term action and the extra production in ectopic tissues. Herein, we discuss the modification of the expression cassettes and peptides for long-term production and secretion of the native peptides. In addition, the characteristics of nonviral or viral system used for a delivery of a modified GLP-1 or exendin-4 are described. Furthermore, recent efforts to improve the biological half-life of GLP-1 or exendin-4 peptide via chemical conjugation with various smart polymers via chemical conjugation compared with native peptide are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pyung-Hwan Kim
- Center for Controlled Chemical Delivery, Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Sung Wan Kim
- Center for Controlled Chemical Delivery, Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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Won YW, Lee M, Kim HA, Bull DA, Kim SW. Post-translational regulated and hypoxia-responsible VEGF plasmid for efficient secretion. J Control Release 2012; 160:525-31. [PMID: 22450332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2012.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2012] [Revised: 03/08/2012] [Accepted: 03/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy using angiogenic genes has emerged as a potentially viable alternative treatment strategy for myocardial ischemia. Non-specific expression of angiogenic genes, however, may result in side effects, including the growth of occult tumors. Regulation of gene expression may help to avoid the occurrence of these side effects. In this study, a plasmid expressing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was constructed with an oxygen dependent degradation (ODD) domain and a secretion signal peptide (SP) in order to stabilize the VEGF protein and facilitate the secretion of VEGF protein, specifically under hypoxic conditions. We found that this plasmid, pβ-SP-ODD-VEGF, expresses the SP-ODD-VEGF protein at increased levels under hypoxic conditions compared to normoxic conditions. Since the size of the ODD domain is almost the same as that of VEGF, the ODD-VEGF fusion protein may have lower secretion efficiency. To address this issue, a furin recognition site was located between the ODD domain and the VEGF site to facilitate elimination of the SP-ODD domain from the fusion protein before its secretion. This optimizes the likelihood that the VEGF secreted from the target cells will be wild-type VEGF. Treatment with a furin inhibitor reduced the secretion efficiency of the VEGF, indicating that furin digestion increases the secretion of VEGF. The secreted wild-type VEGF facilitated the growth of endothelial cells more efficiently under hypoxic conditions than normoxic conditions. These results suggest that this plasmid, pβ-SP-ODD-VEGF, warrants further study as a more efficient form of hypoxia-inducible gene therapy for the treatment of myocardial ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Wook Won
- Center for Controlled Chemical Delivery, Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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17
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Jean M, Alameh M, De Jesus D, Thibault M, Lavertu M, Darras V, Nelea M, Buschmann MD, Merzouki A. Chitosan-based therapeutic nanoparticles for combination gene therapy and gene silencing of in vitro cell lines relevant to type 2 diabetes. Eur J Pharm Sci 2011; 45:138-49. [PMID: 22085632 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2011.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 10/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1), a blood glucose homeostasis modulating incretin, has been proposed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, native GLP-1 pharmacokinetics reveals low bioavailability due to degradation by the ubiquitous dipeptydil peptidase IV (DPP-IV) endoprotease. In this study, the glucosamine-based polymer chitosan was used as a cationic polymer-based in vitro delivery system for GLP-1, DPP-IV resistant GLP-1 analogues and siRNA targeting DPP-IV mRNA. We found chitosans to form spherical nanocomplexes with these nucleic acids, generating two distinct non-overlapping size ranges of 141-283 nm and 68-129 nm for plasmid and siRNA, respectively. The low molecular weight high DDA chitosan 92-10-5 (degree of deacetylation, molecular weight and N:P ratio (DDA-Mn-N:P)) showed the highest plasmid DNA transfection efficiency in HepG2 and Caco-2 cell lines when compared to 80-10-10 and 80-80-5 chitosans. Recombinant native GLP-1 protein levels in media of transfected cells reached 23 ng/L while our DPP-IV resistant analogues resulted in a fivefold increase of GLP-1 protein levels (115 ng/L) relative to native GLP-1, and equivalent to the Lipofectamine positive control. We also found that all chitosan-DPP-IV siRNA nanocomplexes were capable of DPP-IV silencing, with 92-10-5 being significantly more effective in abrogating enzymatic activity of DPP-IV in media of silenced cells, and with no apparent cytotoxicity. These results indicate that specific chitosan formulations may be effectively used for the delivery of plasmid DNA and siRNA in a combination therapy of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Jean
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering, École Polytechnique, P.O. Box 6079, Station Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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18
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mTOR links incretin signaling to HIF induction in pancreatic beta cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:16876-82. [PMID: 21949366 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1114228108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Under feeding conditions, the incretin hormone GLP-1 promotes pancreatic islet viability by triggering the cAMP pathway in beta cells. Increases in PKA activity stimulate the phosphorylation of CREB, which in turn enhances beta cell survival by upregulating IRS2 expression. Although sustained GLP-1 action appears important for its salutary effects on islet function, the transient nature of CREB activation has pointed to the involvement of additional nuclear factors in this process. Following the acute induction of CREB-regulated genes, cAMP triggers a second delayed phase of gene expression that proceeds via the HIF transcription factor. Increases in cAMP promote the accumulation of HIF1α in beta cells by activating the mTOR pathway. As exposure to rapamycin disrupts GLP-1 effects on beta cell viability, these results demonstrate how a pathway associated with tumor growth also mediates salutary effects of an incretin hormone on pancreatic islet function.
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19
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Kim TI, Lee M, Kim SW. Efficient GLP-1 gene delivery using two-step transcription amplification plasmid system with a secretion signal peptide and arginine-grafted bioreducible polymer. J Control Release 2011; 157:243-8. [PMID: 21945681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.09.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2011] [Revised: 08/11/2011] [Accepted: 09/12/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) encoding dual plasmid (pDNA) system (TSTA (SP-GLP-1)) which is composed of pβ-Gal4-p65 and pUAS-SP-GLP-1 was constructed to improve the production and secretion of expressed GLP-1 by combining the advantages of signal peptide (SP) and two-step transcription amplification (TSTA) system. Its potential for GLP-1 gene delivery system was investigated with employment of arginine-grafted bioreducible polymer (ABP) as a gene carrier. Their polyplexes have about 140nm-sizes and 20mV Zeta-potential values. ABP showed no cytotoxicity contrary to PEI25k. It was found in RT-PCR experiments that TSTA-SP pDNA systems showed increased GLP-1 gene transcription level in comparison with mono pDNA system (pβ-GLP-1). It was also observed in GLP-1 ELISA that GLP-1 secretion level of TSTA (SP-GLP-1) pDNA system was 2.7-3.4 times higher than those of pβ-GLP-1 and 1.5-1.7 times than TSTA (GLP-1). Additionally, 2.5-3.5 folds increased level of GLP-1 secretion was found in ABP gene carrier system in comparison with PEI25k. When transfection medium containing secreted GLP-1 was transferred to NIT-1 insulinoma cells, the highest secretion level of insulin was induced in ABP/TSTA (SP-GLP-1) polyplex medium-treated cells. Therefore, this novel system could be utilized as a safe and efficient GLP-1 gene delivery system for type 2 diabetes therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Il Kim
- Department of Biosystems and Biomaterials Science and Engineering, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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20
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Ye H, Daoud-El Baba M, Peng RW, Fussenegger M. A synthetic optogenetic transcription device enhances blood-glucose homeostasis in mice. Science 2011; 332:1565-8. [PMID: 21700876 DOI: 10.1126/science.1203535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 312] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology has advanced the design of genetic devices that can be used to reprogram metabolic activities in mammalian cells. By functionally linking the signal transduction of melanopsin to the control circuit of the nuclear factor of activated T cells, we have designed a synthetic signaling cascade enabling light-inducible transgene expression in different cell lines grown in culture or bioreactors or implanted into mice. In animals harboring intraperitoneal hollow-fiber or subcutaneous implants containing light-inducible transgenic cells, the serum levels of the human glycoprotein secreted alkaline phosphatase could be remote-controlled with fiber optics or transdermally regulated through direct illumination. Light-controlled expression of the glucagon-like peptide 1 was able to attenuate glycemic excursions in type II diabetic mice. Synthetic light-pulse-transcription converters may have applications in therapeutics and protein expression technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Ye
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
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21
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Hata T, Mera Y, Kawai T, Ishii Y, Kuroki Y, Kakimoto K, Ohta T, Kakutani M. JTT-130, a novel intestine-specific inhibitor of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, ameliorates impaired glucose and lipid metabolism in Zucker diabetic fatty rats. Diabetes Obes Metab 2011; 13:629-38. [PMID: 21362121 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-1326.2011.01387.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) takes part in the mobilization of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins from enterocytes and hepatocytes. We investigated the effects of JTT-130, a novel intestine-specific MTP inhibitor, on impaired glucose and lipid metabolism in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. METHODS Male ZDF rats were fed a regular powdered diet with or without JTT-130 as a food admixture (0.01-0.02%) for 6 weeks. Food intake, body weight, blood biochemical parameters, fecal lipid contents, hepatic lipid contents, tissue mRNA levels and glucose utilization in adipose tissues were assessed. An intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) and histological analysis of the pancreas were performed. RESULTS JTT-130 treatment decreased food intake, glycated hemoglobin, plasma levels of glucose, triglycerides and total cholesterol, hepatic levels of triglycerides and cholesterol and hepatic mRNA levels of glucose-6-phosphatase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase. JTT-130 treatment increased fecal levels of free fatty acids and cholesterol, plasma levels of glucagon-like peptide-1 and peptide YY, mRNA levels of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) and lipoprotein lipase in adipose tissues and GLUT4 in muscle and glucose utilization in adipose tissues. Plasma insulin decreased after 2 weeks and increased after 4 weeks of JTT-130 treatment. Plasma glucose in the JTT-130-treated rats was lower with higher plasma insulin than in the control rats during the IPGTT. The islets of the JTT-130-treated rats were larger and contained more insulin than those of the control rats. CONCLUSIONS JTT-130 ameliorates impaired glucose and lipid metabolism in the ZDF rats thereby suggesting that JTT-130 could be useful for prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Hata
- Biological/Pharmacological Research Laboratories, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Japan Tobacco Inc, Osaka, Japan.
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22
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Rowzee AM, Cawley NX, Chiorini JA, Di Pasquale G. Glucagon-like peptide-1 gene therapy. EXPERIMENTAL DIABETES RESEARCH 2011; 2011:601047. [PMID: 21747830 PMCID: PMC3124282 DOI: 10.1155/2011/601047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 04/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) is a small peptide component of the prohormone, proglucagon, that is produced in the gut. Exendin-4, a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally isolated from the saliva of H. suspectum or Gila monster, is a peptide that shares sequence and functional homology with GLP-1. Both peptides have been demonstrated to stimulate insulin secretion, inhibit glucagon secretion, promote satiety and slow gastric emptying. As such, GLP-1 and Exendin-4 have become attractive pharmaceutical targets as an adjunctive therapy for individuals with type II diabetes mellitus, with several products currently available clinically. Herein we summarize the cell biology leading to GLP-1 production and secretion from intestinal L-cells and the endocrine functions of this peptide and Exendin-4 in humans. Additionally, gene therapeutic applications of GLP-1 and Exendin-4 are discussed with a focus on recent work using the salivary gland as a gene therapy target organ for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. Rowzee
- Molecular Physiology and Therapeutics Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, Bethesda, MD 20892-2190, USA
| | - Niamh X. Cawley
- Section on Cellular Neurobiology, Department of Health and Human Services, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - John A. Chiorini
- Molecular Physiology and Therapeutics Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, Bethesda, MD 20892-2190, USA
| | - Giovanni Di Pasquale
- Molecular Physiology and Therapeutics Branch, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, Bethesda, MD 20892-2190, USA
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23
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Effective and safe gene-based delivery of GLP-1 using chitosan/plasmid-DNA therapeutic nanocomplexes in an animal model of type 2 diabetes. Gene Ther 2011; 18:807-16. [DOI: 10.1038/gt.2011.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Moralejo D, Yanay O, Kernan K, Bailey A, Lernmark A, Osborne W. Sustained glucagon-like peptide 1 expression from encapsulated transduced cells to treat obese diabetic rats. J Biosci Bioeng 2011; 111:383-7. [PMID: 21216666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2010.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2010] [Revised: 10/29/2010] [Accepted: 12/07/2010] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are two prevalent chronic diseases that have become a major public health concern in industrialized countries. T2D is characterized by hyperglycemia and islet beta cell dysfunction. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) promotes β cell proliferation and neogenesis and has a potent insulinotropic effect. Leptin receptor deficient male rats are obese and diabetic and provide a model of T2D. We hypothesized that their treatment by sustained expression of GLP-1 using encapsulated cells may prevent or delay diabetes onset. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) retrovirally transduced to secrete GLP-1 were seeded into TheraCyte(TM) encapsulation devices, implanted subcutaneously and rats were monitored for diabetes. Rats that received cell implants showed mean plasma GLP-1 level of 119.3 ± 10.2pM that was significantly elevated over control values of 32.4 ± 2.9pM (P<0.001). GLP-1 treated rats had mean insulin levels of 45.9 ± 2.3ng/ml that were significantly increased over control levels of 7.3±1.5ng/ml (P<0.001). In rats treated before diabetes onset elevations in blood glucose were delayed and rats treated after onset became normoglycemic and showed improved glucose tolerance tests. Untreated diabetic rats possess abnormal islet structures characterized by enlarged islets with α-cell infiltration and multifocal vacuolization. GLP-1 treatment induced normalization of islet structures including a mantle of α-cells and increased islet mass. These data suggest that encapsulated transduced cells may offer a potential long term treatment of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Moralejo
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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25
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Riedel MJ, Kieffer TJ. Treatment of diabetes with glucagon-like peptide-1 gene therapy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2010; 10:1681-92. [PMID: 21029027 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2010.532786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonists are in widespread clinical use for the treatment of diabetes. While effective, these peptides require frequent injections to maintain efficacy. Therefore, alternative delivery methods including gene therapy are currently being evaluated. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW Here, we review the biology of GLP-1, evidence supporting the clinical use of the native peptide as well as synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonists, and the rationale for their delivery by gene therapy. We then review progress made in the field of GLP-1 gene therapy for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN Efforts to improve the biological half-life of GLP-1 receptor agonists are discussed. We focus on the development of both viral and non-viral gene delivery methods, highlighting vector designs and the strengths and weaknesses of these approaches. We also discuss the utility of targeting regulated GLP-1 production to tissues including the liver, muscle, islet and gut. TAKE HOME MESSAGE GLP-1 is a natural peptide possessing several actions that effectively combat diabetes. Current delivery methods for GLP-1-based drugs are cumbersome and do not recapitulate the normal secretion pattern of the native hormone. Gene therapy offers a useful method for directing long-term production and secretion of the native peptide. Targeted production of GLP-1 using tissue-specific promoters and delivery methods may improve therapeutic efficacy, while also eliminating the burden of frequent injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Riedel
- University of British Columbia, Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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26
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Choi SH, Lee HC. Long-term, antidiabetogenic effects of GLP-1 gene therapy using a double-stranded, adeno-associated viral vector. Gene Ther 2010; 18:155-63. [DOI: 10.1038/gt.2010.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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27
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Yanay O, Moralejo D, Kernan K, Brzezinski M, Fuller JM, Barton R, Lernmark A, Osborne WR. Prolonged survival and improved glycemia in BioBreeding diabetic rats after early sustained exposure to glucagon-like peptide 1. J Gene Med 2010; 12:538-44. [PMID: 20527046 PMCID: PMC2882674 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 1 diabetes (T1D) in both humans and BioBreeding (BB) rats is an autoimmune disease that results in complete destruction of islets and insulin dependency for life. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) promotes beta cell proliferation and neogenesis and has a potent insulinotropic effect. We hypothesized that the expression of GLP-1 before disease onset would increase islet mass, delay diabetes and prolong survival of BB rats. METHODS Vascular smooth muscle cells retrovirally transduced to secrete GLP-1 were seeded into TheraCyte encapsulation devices, implanted subcutaneously, and rats were monitored for diabetes. RESULTS In untreated control rats, plasma GLP-1 levels were 34.5-39.5 pmol/l, whereas, in treated rats, plasma levels were elevated, in the range 90-250.4 pmol/l. Hypoglycemia was not detected and this was anticipated from the glucose-regulated action of GLP-1. Diabetes onset (mean + or - SEM) in untreated rats occurred at 56.5 + or - 0.6 days (n = 6) and, in GLP-1-treated rats, was delayed until 76.4 + or - 3.3 days (n = 5) (p < 0.001). After disease onset, untreated control rats showed a rapid weight loss and elevated blood glucose (>650 mg/dl) and did not survive beyond 11 days. At 5 days after diabetes onset, insulin-secreting islets were absent in untreated rats. By contrast, treated rats maintained weight for up to 143 days of age and showed insulin-secreting beta cells. CONCLUSIONS Sustained GLP-1 expression delivered by encapsulated cells before diabetes onset in BB rats showed an improved clinical outcome, suggesting the potential for treating patients using long lasting GLP-1 analogs.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blood Glucose/drug effects
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/diagnosis
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/physiopathology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/therapy
- Female
- Glucagon/metabolism
- Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/pharmacology
- Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/therapeutic use
- Humans
- Implants, Experimental
- Male
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/cytology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/cytology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/physiology
- Pancreas/cytology
- Pancreas/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Inbred BB
- Rats, Wistar
- Transduction, Genetic
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofer Yanay
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - Daniel Moralejo
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle WA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | - Kelly Kernan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle WA
| | | | | | | | - Ake Lernmark
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle WA
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DsAAV8-mediated expression of glucagon-like peptide-1 in pancreatic beta-cells ameliorates streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Gene Ther 2009; 17:171-80. [PMID: 19865180 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2009.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone that performs a wide array of well-characterized antidiabetic actions, including stimulation of glucose-dependent insulin secretion, upregulation of insulin gene expression and improvements in beta-cell survival. GLP-1-receptor agonists have been developed for treatment of diabetes; however, the short biological half-lives of these peptide-based therapeutics requires that frequent injections be administered to maintain sufficient circulating levels. Thus, novel methods of delivering GLP-1 remain an important avenue of active research. It has recently been demonstrated that self-complimentary, double-stranded, adeno-associated virus serotype-8 (DsAAV8) can efficiently transduce pancreatic beta-cells in vivo, resulting in long-term transgene expression. In this study, we engineered a DsAAV8 vector containing a GLP-1 transgene driven by the mouse insulin-II promoter (MIP). Biological activity of the GLP-1 produced from this transgene was assessed using a luciferase-based bioassay. DsAAV8-MIP-GLP-1 was delivered via intraperitoneal injection and beta-cell damage induced by multiple low dose streptozotocin (STZ) administration. Glucose tolerance was assessed following intraperitoneal glucose injections and beta-cell proliferation measured by PCNA expression. Expression of GLP-1 in Min6 beta-cells resulted in glucose-dependent secretion of biologically active GLP-1. Intraperitoneal delivery of DsAAV8-MIP-GLP-1 to mice led to localized GLP-1 expression in beta-cells and protection against development of diabetes induced by multiple low-dose STZ administration. This protection was associated with significant increase in beta-cell proliferation. Results from this study indicate that expression and secretion of GLP-1 from beta-cells in vivo via DsAAV8 represents a novel therapeutic strategy for treatment of diabetes.
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Wideman RD, Kieffer TJ. Mining incretin hormone pathways for novel therapies. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2009; 20:280-6. [PMID: 19595611 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2009.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2008] [Revised: 01/30/2009] [Accepted: 02/02/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The incretin hormones, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), are produced predominantly by enteroendocrine cells and have multiple blood glucose-lowering effects. Recent years have seen a surge of interest in understanding the basic physiology and pathophysiology of incretins and in applying this knowledge to the treatment of diabetes and obesity. Considerable gains have been made in elucidating the mechanisms controlling incretin secretion, and there is growing evidence to suggest that incretins might be involved in the rapid reversal of diabetes observed in gastric bypass patients. Here, we review these recent advances and outline the multiple strategies being pursued to exploit the potential therapeutic benefits of GIP and GLP-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhonda D Wideman
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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30
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Riedel MJ, Lee CWK, Kieffer TJ. Engineered glucagon-like peptide-1-producing hepatocytes lower plasma glucose levels in mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2009; 296:E936-44. [PMID: 19190262 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.90768.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 is an incretin hormone with well-characterized antidiabetic properties, including glucose-dependent stimulation of insulin secretion and enhancement of beta-cell mass. GLP-1 agonists have recently been developed and are now in clinical use for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Rapid degradation of GLP-1 by enzymes including dipeptidyl-peptidase (DPP)-IV and neutral endopeptidase (NEP) 24.11, along with renal clearance, contribute to a short biological half-life, necessitating frequent injections to maintain therapeutic efficacy. Gene therapy may represent a promising alternative approach for achieving long-term increases in endogenous release of GLP-1. We have developed a novel strategy for glucose-regulated production of GLP-1 in hepatocytes by expressing a DPP-IV-resistant GLP-1 peptide in hepatocytes under control of the liver-type pyruvate kinase promoter. Adenoviral delivery of this construct to hepatocytes in vitro resulted in production and secretion of bioactive GLP-1 as measured by a luciferase-based bioassay developed to detect the NH2-terminally modified GLP-1 peptide engineered for this study. Transplantation of encapsulated hepatocytes into CD-1 mice resulted in an increase in plasma GLP-1 levels that was accompanied by a significant reduction in fasting plasma glucose levels. The results from this study demonstrate that a gene therapy approach designed to induce GLP-1 production in hepatocytes may represent a novel strategy for long-term secretion of bioactive GLP-1 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Riedel
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z3
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31
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Ah Kim H, Lee S, Park JH, Lee S, Lee BW, Hee Ihm S, Kim TI, Wan Kim S, Soo Ko K, Lee M. Enhanced protection of Ins-1 β cells from apoptosis under hypoxia by delivery of DNA encoding secretion signal peptide-linked exendin-4. J Drug Target 2009; 17:242-8. [DOI: 10.1080/10611860902718664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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32
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Samson SL, Gonzalez EV, Yechoor V, Bajaj M, Oka K, Chan L. Gene therapy for diabetes: metabolic effects of helper-dependent adenoviral exendin 4 expression in a diet-induced obesity mouse model. Mol Ther 2008; 16:1805-12. [PMID: 18781141 PMCID: PMC2582376 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2008.198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Exendin 4 (Ex4) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP- 1R) agonist which is available as a short-acting injectable treatment for type 2 diabetes. Our aim was to characterize the long-term effects of elevated steady-state levels of Ex4 provided by in vivo gene therapy. We constructed a helper-dependent adenoviral (HDAd) vector for long-term expression of Ex4 in vivo. A high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity (DIO) mouse model was chosen to approximate the metabolic derangements seen in obese patients. Mice were treated with a single injection of HDAd-Ex4 and were monitored for 15 weeks. Both hepatic Ex4 RNA and plasma Ex4 were detectable at the end of the study. HDAd-Ex4 treatment improved glucose homeostasis without increasing insulin levels. However, there was evidence of enhanced insulin action and decreased gluconeogenic enzyme expression. HDAd-Ex4 caused decreased weight gain without detectable changes in food intake, in part, due to increases in energy expenditure (EE). HDAd-Ex4 DIO mice also had reduced hepatic fat and an improved adipokine profile. In the liver, there was decreased expression of genes that were involved in de novo fatty acid synthesis. These observations are important in considering the development of longer acting GLP-1R agonists for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Samson
- Division of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Lee Y, Kwon MK, Kang ES, Park YM, Choi SH, Ahn CW, Kim KS, Park CW, Cha BS, Kim SW, Sung JK, Lee EJ, Lee HC. Adenoviral vector-mediated glucagon-like peptide 1 gene therapy improves glucose homeostasis in Zucker diabetic fatty rats. J Gene Med 2008; 10:260-8. [PMID: 18085721 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a gut-derived incretin hormone that plays an important role in glucose homeostasis. Its functions include glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, suppression of glucagon secretion, deceleration of gastric emptying, and reduction in appetite and food intake. Despite the numerous antidiabetic properties of GLP-1, its therapeutic potential is limited by its short biological half-life due to rapid enzymatic degradation by dipeptidyl peptidase IV. The present study aimed to demonstrate the therapeutic effects of constitutively expressed GLP-1 in an overt type 2 diabetic animal model using an adenoviral vector system. METHODS A novel plasmid (pAAV-ILGLP-1) and recombinant adenoviral vector (Ad-ILGLP-1) were constructed with the cytomegalovirus promoter and insulin leader sequence followed by GLP-1(7-37) cDNA. RESULTS The results of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed significantly elevated levels of GLP-1(7-37) secreted by human embryonic kidney cells transfected with the construct containing the leader sequence. A single intravenous administration of Ad-ILGLP-1 into 12-week-old Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, which have overt type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), achieved near normoglycemia for 3 weeks and improved utilization of blood glucose in glucose tolerance tests. Circulating plasma levels of GLP-1 increased in GLP-1-treated ZDF rats, but diminished 21 days after treatment. When compared with controls, Ad-ILGLP-1-treated ZDF rats had a lower homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance score indicating amelioration in insulin resistance. Immunohistochemical staining showed that cells expressing GLP-1 were found in the livers of GLP-1-treated ZDF rats. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that GLP-1 gene therapy can improve glucose homeostasis in fully developed diabetic animal models and may be a promising treatment modality for T2DM in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongho Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Lin L. Commonality between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease and a new strategy for the therapy. CLINICAL MEDICINE. PATHOLOGY 2008; 1:83-91. [PMID: 21876656 PMCID: PMC3160008 DOI: 10.4137/cpath.s667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Li Lin
- Key laboratory of cellular physiology, Shanxi Medical University, China
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Lee YS, Shin S, Shigihara T, Hahm E, Liu MJ, Han J, Yoon JW, Jun HS. Glucagon-like peptide-1 gene therapy in obese diabetic mice results in long-term cure of diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis. Diabetes 2007; 56:1671-9. [PMID: 17369525 DOI: 10.2337/db06-1182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Long-term treatment with glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 or its analog can improve insulin sensitivity. However, continuous administration is required due to its short half-life. We hypothesized that continuous production of therapeutic levels of GLP-1 in vivo by a gene therapy strategy may remit hyperglycemia and maintain prolonged normoglycemia. We produced a recombinant adenovirus expressing GLP-1 (rAd-GLP-1) under the cytomegalovirus promoter, intravenously injected it into diabetic ob/ob mice, and investigated the effect of this treatment on remission of diabetes, as well as the mechanisms involved. rAd-GLP-1-treated diabetic ob/ob mice became normoglycemic 4 days after treatment, remained normoglycemic over 60 days, and had reduced body weight gain. Glucose tolerance tests found that exogenous glucose was cleared normally. rAd-GLP-1-treated diabetic ob/ob mice showed improved beta-cell function, evidenced by glucose-responsive insulin release, and increased insulin sensitivity, evidenced by improved insulin tolerance and increased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes. rAd-GLP-1 treatment increased basal levels of insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 in the liver and activation of IRS-1 and protein kinase C by insulin in liver and muscle; increased Akt activation was only observed in muscle. rAd-GLP-1 treatment reduced hepatic glucose production and hepatic expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, glucose-6-phosphatase, and fatty acid synthase in ob/ob mice. Taken together, these results show that a single administration of rAd-GLP-1 results in the long-term remission of diabetes in ob/ob mice by improving insulin sensitivity through restoration of insulin signaling and reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Sun Lee
- Rosalind Franklin Comprehensive Diabetes Center, Department of Pathology, Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
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