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Liu Y, Wu D, Zheng H, Ni Y, Zhu L, Jiang Y, Dai J, Sun Q, Zhao Y, Zhang Q, Yang Y, Liu R. Serum Spexin Level Is Negatively Associated With Peripheral Neuropathy and Sensory Pain in Type 2 Diabetes. J Diabetes Res 2024; 2024:4538199. [PMID: 38919263 PMCID: PMC11199070 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4538199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Spexin is a novel peptide hormone and has shown antinociceptive effects in experimental mice. This study is aimed at evaluating the association of serum spexin level with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and related pain in a Chinese population. Methods: We enrolled 167 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) including 56 patients without DPN (non-DPN), 67 painless DPN, and 44 painful DPN. Serum spexin was measured using ELISA. Logistic regression models were performed to analyze the independent effects of spexin on prevalence of DPN and painful DPN. In streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice, mechanical pain threshold was measured using electronic von Frey aesthesiometer. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and further stimulated with lipopolysaccharide without or with spexin. The gene expression was assayed by qPCR. Results: Compared with non-DPN, serum spexin level decreased in painless DPN and further decreased in painful DPN. The odds of DPN was associated with low spexin level in T2DM, which was similar by age, sex, BMI, and diabetes duration, but attenuated in smokers. The odds of having pain was associated with decreased spexin level in DPN, which was similar by age, sex, smoking status, and diabetes duration, but attenuated in normal weight. Furthermore, we observed that mechanical pain threshold increased in spexin-treated diabetic mice. We also found that lipopolysaccharide treatment increased the mRNA level of TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP-1 in human PBMCs, while spexin treatment prevented this increase. Conclusions: These results suggested that spexin might serve as a protective factor for diabetes against neuropathology and pain-related pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Hangping Zheng
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yunzhi Ni
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Lu Zhu
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yaojing Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Jiarong Dai
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Quanya Sun
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yehong Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismHuashan HospitalFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
- Institute of Endocrinology and DiabetesFudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
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Gambaro SE, Zubiría MG, Giordano AP, Castro PF, Garraza C, Harnichar AE, Alzamendi A, Spinedi E, Giovambattista A. Role of Spexin in White Adipose Tissue Thermogenesis under Basal and Cold-Stimulated Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1767. [PMID: 38339044 PMCID: PMC10855774 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a novel adipokine that plays an emerging role in metabolic diseases due to its involvement in carbohydrate homeostasis, weight loss, appetite control, and gastrointestinal movement, among others. In obese patients, SPX plasma levels are reduced. Little is known about the relationship between SPX and white adipose tissue (WAT) thermogenesis. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of SPX in this process. C57BL/6J male mice were treated or not with SPX for ten days. On day 3, mice were randomly divided into two groups: one kept at room temperature and the other kept at cold temperature (4 °C). Caloric intake and body weight were recorded daily. At the end of the protocol, plasma, abdominal (epididymal), subcutaneous (inguinal), and brown AT (EAT, IAT, and BAT, respectively) depots were collected for measurements. We found that SPX treatment reduced Uncoupling protein 1 levels in WAT under both basal and cold conditions. SPX also reduced cox8b and pgc1α mRNA levels and mitochondrial DNA, principally in IAT. SPX did not modulate the number of beige precursors. SPX decreased spx levels in IAT depots and galr2 in WAT depots. No differences were observed in the BAT depots. In conclusion, we showed, for the first time, that SPX treatment in vivo reduced the thermogenic process in subcutaneous and abdominal AT, being more evident under cold stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina E. Gambaro
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
- Biology Department, School of Exact Sciences, La Plata National University, La Plata 1900, Argentina
| | - María G. Zubiría
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
- Biology Department, School of Exact Sciences, La Plata National University, La Plata 1900, Argentina
| | - Alejandra P. Giordano
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
- Biology Department, School of Exact Sciences, La Plata National University, La Plata 1900, Argentina
| | - Patricia F. Castro
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
| | - Carolina Garraza
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
| | - Alejandro E. Harnichar
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
| | - Ana Alzamendi
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
| | - Eduardo Spinedi
- CENEXA (UNLP-CONICET), La Plata Medical School-UNLP, Calles 60 y 120, La Plata 1900, Argentina;
| | - Andrés Giovambattista
- Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Multidisciplinary Institute of Cellular Biology (IMBICE, CICPBA-CONICET-UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina; (S.E.G.); (M.G.Z.); (A.P.G.); (P.F.C.); (C.G.); (A.E.H.); (A.A.)
- Biology Department, School of Exact Sciences, La Plata National University, La Plata 1900, Argentina
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Dajnowska A, Osiak-Wicha C, Piech M, Muszyński S, Tomaszewska E, Ropka-Molik K, Krzysiak MK, Arciszewski MB. Immunoexpression of Spexin in Selected Segments of the Bovine ( Bos taurus taurus) Gastrointestinal Tract. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3789. [PMID: 38136826 PMCID: PMC10741206 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243789] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In the expansive domain of neuropeptide investigation, spexin (SPX) has emerged as a captivating subject, exerting a significant impact on diverse physiological processes. Initially identified in mice, SPX's distribution transcends various organs, suggesting its potential regulatory roles. Despite extensive research in smaller species, a notable gap exists in our comprehension of SPX in larger mammals, particularly ruminants. Our study meticulously explores the immunolocalization of SPX within the gastrointestinal organs of bovines, with a specific focus on the abomasum, jejunum, and colon. Tissue samples from Holstein-Friesian cattle underwent careful processing, and gene mRNA expression levels, particularly GALR2 and SPX, were assessed. Intriguingly, our findings revealed that GALR2 expression was highest in the jejunum, signifying a potentially critical role in this digestive segment. Immunohistochemistry further unveiled distinct patterns of SPX immunoreactivity in each examined region-abomasum, jejunum, and colon-highlighting nuanced, region-specific responses. Notably, the abomasum and jejunum predominantly exhibited positive immunoreactivity in the submucosal plexus, while the colon, in contrast, demonstrated a higher degree of immunoreactivity in myenteric plexus neurons. Our investigation, grounded in the hypothesis of ubiquitous SPX distribution in ruminants, delves deeper into the intricate role of SPX within the enteric nervous system. This study meticulously explores the spatial distribution of SPX within the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, integral components of the enteric nervous system. These findings significantly enhance our understanding of SPX's potential roles in gastrointestinal regulation in bovines, providing a unique perspective on larger mammals and enriching our comprehension of this intriguing neuropeptide's significance in various physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Dajnowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-950 Lublin, Poland; (A.D.); (C.O.-W.); (M.P.)
| | - Cezary Osiak-Wicha
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-950 Lublin, Poland; (A.D.); (C.O.-W.); (M.P.)
| | - Małgorzata Piech
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-950 Lublin, Poland; (A.D.); (C.O.-W.); (M.P.)
| | - Siemowit Muszyński
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Environmental Biology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Ewa Tomaszewska
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Ropka-Molik
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083 Balice, Poland;
| | - Michał K. Krzysiak
- Białowieża National Park, Park Pałacowy 11, 17-230 Białowieża, Poland;
- Institute of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Białystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45 E, 15-351 Białystok, Poland
| | - Marcin B. Arciszewski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12, 20-950 Lublin, Poland; (A.D.); (C.O.-W.); (M.P.)
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Kurowska P, Dawid M, Oprocha J, Respekta N, Serra L, Estienne A, Pawlicki P, Kotula-Balak M, Guérif F, Dupont J, Rak A. Spexin role in human granulosa cells physiology and PCOS: expression and negative impact on steroidogenesis and proliferation†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:705-719. [PMID: 37658762 PMCID: PMC10651070 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a novel neuropeptide and adipokine negatively correlated with obesity and insulin resistance. A recent study investigated expression and regulatory function of SPX in the hypothalamus and pituitary; however, the effect on ovarian function is still unknown. The aim of this study was to characterize the expression of SPX and its receptors, galanin receptors 2 and 3 (GALR2/3), in the human ovary and to study its in vitro effect on granulosa cells (GC) function. Follicular fluid (FF) and GC were obtained from normal weight and obese healthy and diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) women. Expression of SPX and GALR2/3 in the ovary was studied by qPCR, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. The level of SPX in FF was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The in vitro effect of recombinant human SPX on GC proliferation, steroidogenesis, and signaling pathways (MAP3/1, STAT3, AKT, PKA) was analyzed. Moreover, GC proliferation and estradiol (E2) secretion were measured with and without an siRNA against GALR2/3 and pharmacological inhibition of the above kinases. The results showed that both the SPX concentration in FF and its gene expression were decreased in GC of obese and PCOS women, while the protein expression of GALR2/3 was increased. We noted that SPX reduced GC proliferation and steroidogenesis; these effects were mediated by GALR2/3 and kinases MAP3/1, AKT, and STAT3 for proliferation or kinases MAP3/1 and PKA for E2 secretion. The obtained data clearly documented that SPX is a novel regulator of human ovarian physiology and possibly plays a role in PCOS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Kurowska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Monika Dawid
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Julia Oprocha
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Natalia Respekta
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Loïse Serra
- National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Anthony Estienne
- National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Piotr Pawlicki
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kotula-Balak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Preclinical Sciences, University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Fabrice Guérif
- National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, University Hospital of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Joelle Dupont
- National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
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Pu Z, Liu S, Guo Z, Zhang X, Yan J, Tang Y, Xiao H, Gao J, Li Y, Bai Q. Casein Reactivates Dopaminergic Nerve Injury and Intestinal Inflammation with Disturbing Intestinal Microflora and Fecal Metabolites in a Convalescent Parkinson's Disease Mouse Model. Neuroscience 2023; 524:120-136. [PMID: 37321369 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disease, with pathogenic causes elusive and short of effective treatment options. Investigations have found that dairy products positively correlate with the onset of PD, but the mechanisms remain unexplored. As casein is an antigenic component in dairy products, this study assessed if casein could exacerbate PD-related symptoms by stimulating intestinal inflammation and unbalanced intestinal flora and be a risk factor for PD. Using a convalescent PD mouse model induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), the results showed casein reduced motor coordination, caused gastrointestinal dysfunction, reduced dopamine content, and induced intestinal inflammation. Meanwhile, casein disturbed gut microbiota homeostasis by increasing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, decreasing α-diversity, and caused abnormal alterations in fecal metabolites. However, these adverse effects of casein attenuated much when it had hydrolyzed by acid or when antibiotics inhibited the intestinal microbiota of the mice. Therefore, our results suggested that casein could reactivate dopaminergic nerve injury and intestinal inflammation and exacerbate intestinal flora disorder and its metabolites in convalescent PD mice. These damaging effects might be related to disordered protein digestion and gut microbiota in these mice. These findings will provide new insights into the impact of milk/dairy products on PD progression and supply information on dietary options for PD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengjia Pu
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Shuya Liu
- Chongqing Institute of TB Prevention and Treatment, Jiulongpo District, Chongqing 400050, China
| | - Zeming Guo
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Chongqing Orthopedics Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Hong Xiao
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jieying Gao
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yingli Li
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Qunhua Bai
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China.
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Assefa F. The role of sensory and sympathetic nerves in craniofacial bone regeneration. Neuropeptides 2023; 99:102328. [PMID: 36827755 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2023.102328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Multiple factors regulate the regeneration of craniofacial bone defects. The nervous system is recognized as one of the critical regulators of bone mass, thereby suggesting a role for neuronal pathways in bone regeneration. However, in the context of craniofacial bone regeneration, little is known about the interplay between the nervous system and craniofacial bone. Sensory and sympathetic nerves interact with the bone through their neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, proteins, peptides, and amino acid derivates. The neuron-derived factors, such as semaphorin 3A (SEMA3A), substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), possess a remarkable role in craniofacial regeneration. This review summarizes the roles of these factors and recently published factors such as secretoneurin (SN) and spexin (SPX) in the osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, bone metabolism, growth, remodeling and discusses the novel application of nerve-based craniofacial bone regeneration. Moreover, the review will facilitate understanding the mechanism of action and provide potential treatment direction for the craniofacial bone defect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freshet Assefa
- Department of Biochemistry, Collage of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, P.O.Box 1560, Hawassa, Ethiopia.
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Paullada-Salmerón JA, Wang B, Muñoz-Cueto JA. Spexin in the European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax: Characterization, brain distribution, and interaction with Gnrh and Gnih neurons. J Comp Neurol 2023; 531:314-335. [PMID: 36273249 PMCID: PMC10092896 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25428] [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: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Spexin (Spx) is a recently characterized neuropeptide implicated in multiple physiological processes in vertebrates, including reproduction, food intake, and regulation of anxiety and stress. Two orthologs (Spx1 and Spx2) are present in some nonmammalian vertebrates, including teleosts. However, information on the distribution of Spx in the brain and its interactions with other neuroendocrine systems in fish is still scarce. In this work, we cloned and sequenced the sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) Spx1, which included a 27 aa signal peptide and a mature peptide of 14 aa that is C-terminal amidated. spx1 transcripts were higher in the diencephalon/caudal preoptic area/hypothalamus and medulla but were also detected in the olfactory bulbs, telencephalon/rostral preoptic area, optic tectum/tegmentum, cerebellum/pons, and pituitary. The immunohistochemical study revealed Spx1-immunoreactive (ir) cells in different nuclei of the preoptic area, habenula, prethalamus, mesencephalic tegmentum and in the proximal pars distalis (PPD) and pars intermedia of the pituitary. Spx1-ir fibers were widely distributed throughout the brain being particularly abundant in the midbrain and hindbrain, in close contact with tegmental gonadotropin-releasing hormone 2 (Gnrh2) cells and isthmic gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (Gnih) cells of the secondary gustatory nucleus. Moreover, Gnih fibers were observed innervating Spx1-ir cells lying in several subdivisions of the magnocellular preoptic nucleus and in the lateral nucleus of the valvula, whereas ventrolateral prethalamic Spx1-ir cells received immunopositive Gnrh2 fibers. In the pituitary, Gnrh1-ir fibers were observed closely associated with Spx1-ir cells of the PPD. These results suggest that Spx1 could be involved in both reproductive and nonreproductive (i.e., food intake, behavior) functions in sea bass.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A Paullada-Salmerón
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain.,Marine Research Institute (INMAR), Marine Campus of International Excellence (CEIMAR) and Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (ceiA3), Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain.,European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), Cádiz, Spain
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain.,Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Fisheries and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
| | - José A Muñoz-Cueto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cádiz, Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain.,Marine Research Institute (INMAR), Marine Campus of International Excellence (CEIMAR) and Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (ceiA3), Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain.,European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), Cádiz, Spain
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Meng F, Yu Y, Li J, Han X, Du X, Cao X, Liang Q, Huang A, Kong F, Huang L, Zeng X, Bu G. Characterization of spexin (SPX) in chickens: molecular cloning, functional analysis, tissue expression and its involvement in appetite regulation. Poult Sci 2022; 102:102279. [PMID: 36402041 PMCID: PMC9673105 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a conservative tetradecapeptide which has been proven to participate in multiple physiological processes, including anxiety, feed intake, and energy metabolism in fish and mammals. However, whether SPX exists and functions in birds remain largely unknown. Using chicken (c-) as a model, the full-length cDNA encoding cSPX precursor was cloned, and it was predicted to generate a mature peptide with 14 amino acids conserved across vertebrates. The pGL4-SRE-luciferase reporter system-based functional analysis demonstrated that cSPX was effective in activating chicken galanin type Ⅱ receptor (cGALR2), cGALR2-like receptor (cGALR2L) and galanin type Ⅲ receptor (cGALR3), thus to stimulate intracellular MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that SPX was widely expressed in chicken tissues, especially abundant in the central nervous system, pituitary, testes, and pancreas. Interestingly, it was noted that chicken hypothalamic SPX mRNA could be up-regulated by 24-h and 36-h fasting, heralding its latent capacity in appetite regulation. In accordance with this speculation, peripheral injection of cSPX was proved to be functional in reducing feed intake of 3-wk-old chicks. Furthermore, we found that cSPX could reduce the expression of AgRP and MCH, with a concurrent rise in CART1 mRNA level in the hypothalamic of chicks. Collectively, our findings not only provide the evidences that SPX can act as a satiety factor by orchestrating the expression of key feeding regulators in the chicken hypothalamus but also help to facilitate a better understanding of its functional evolution across vertebrates.
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Ricci MF, Béla SR, Barbosa JL, Moraes MM, Mazzeti AL, Bahia MT, Horta LS, Santiago HDC, Cruz JS, Capettini LDSA, Arantes RME. A Potential Role of Cholinergic Dysfunction on Impaired Colon Motility in Experimental Intestinal Chagas Disease. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2022; 28:483-500. [PMID: 35799242 PMCID: PMC9274474 DOI: 10.5056/jnm21074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aims Chagasic megacolon is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, which promotes in several cases, irreversible segmental colonic dilation. This alteration is the major anatomic-clinical disorder, characterized by the enteric nervous system and muscle wall structural damage. Herein, we investigate how T. cruzi-induced progressive colonic structural changes modulate the colonic contractile pattern activity. Methods We developed a murine model of T. cruzi-infection that reproduced long-term modifications of the enlarged colon. We evaluated colonic and total intestinal transit time in animals. The patterns of motor response at several time intervals between the acute and chronic phases were evaluated using the organ bath assays. Enteric motor neurons were stimulated by electric field stimulation. The responses were analyzed in the presence of the nicotinic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists. Western blot was performed to evaluate the expression of nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. The neurotransmitter expression was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results In the chronic phase of infection, there was decreased intestinal motility associated with decreased amplitude and rhythmicity of intestinal contractility. Pharmacological tests suggested a defective response mediated by acetylcholine receptors. The contractile response induced by acetylcholine was decreased by atropine in the acute phase while the lack of its action in the chronic phase was associated with tissue damage, and decreased expression of choline acetyltransferase, nicotinic subunits of acetylcholine receptors, and neurotransmitters. Conclusions T. cruzi-induced damage of smooth muscles was accompanied by motility disorders such as decreased intestinal peristalsis and cholinergic system response impairment. This study allows integration of the natural history of Chagasic megacolon motility disorders and opens new perspectives for the design of effective therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra F Ricci
- Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Samantha R Béla
- Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
- Instituto de Ciências Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Joana L Barbosa
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Michele M Moraes
- Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Ana L Mazzeti
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Maria T Bahia
- Escola de Medicina & Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Laila S Horta
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Helton da C Santiago
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Jader S Cruz
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Luciano dos S A Capettini
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Rosa M E Arantes
- Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
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Mechanisms for Bile Acids CDCA- and DCA-Stimulated Hepatic Spexin Expression. Cells 2022; 11:cells11142159. [PMID: 35883602 PMCID: PMC9316865 DOI: 10.3390/cells11142159] [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: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a novel peptide involved in glucose and lipid metabolism and suppresses hepatic total bile acid levels by inhibiting hepatic cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase 1 expression. As important mediators for glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and lipid metabolism, the effects of bile acids on SPX expression is yet to be understood. By using SMMC7721 and BEL-7402 cell lines, we screened the effects of bile acids and found that chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) can stimulate SPX gene transcription. Both CDCA and DCA were able to stimulate SPX mRNA expression in the liver but not colon and ileum in mice. In SMMC7721 and BEL-7402 cells, CDCA- and DCA-induced SPX promoter activity was mimicked by bile acid receptor FXR and TGR5 activation and suppressed by FXR and TGR5 silencing. Adenylate cyclase (AC)/cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) activators significantly increased SPX promoter activity whereas the inhibitors for AC/CAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway attenuated CDCA- and DCA-induced SPX transcription. Thus, CDCA and DCA stimulate SPX expression at the hepatic level through FXR and TGR5 mediated AC/cAMP/PKA and MAPK cascades.
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11
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Yu M, Ju M, Fang P, Zhang Z. Emerging central and peripheral actions of spexin in feeding behavior, leptin resistance and obesity. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 202:115121. [PMID: 35679893 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Consumption of a high calorie diet with irregular eating and sedentary behavior habits is typical of the current suboptimal lifestyle, contributing to the development of metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Most notably, the disorder of adipokine secretion in visceral adiposity is a major contributor to metabolic diseases with advancing age. In this regard, spexin and leptin are established as anorexigenic adipokines that can modulate adipogenesis and glucose metabolism by suppressing food intake or increasing energy expenditure, respectively. Emerging evidence points out that spexin levels are lower in the serum and adipose tissue of patients with obesity and/or insulin resistance, whereas circulating levels of leptin are higher in obesity and comorbidities. In turn, spexin and leptin pharmacologically induce beneficial effects on the brain's modulation of food intake and energy expenditure. On the other hand, endocrine crosstalk via spexin and leptin has also been reported in patients suffering from obesity and diabetes. Spexin plays a crucial role in the regulation of leptin secretion and leptin resistance. It should therefore be taken into account that studying the role of spexin in leptin regulation will help us combat the pathologies of obesity caused by leptin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Yu
- Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; Department of Pharmacy, Taizhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Taizhou 225300, China
| | - Mengxian Ju
- Department of Endocrinology, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Penghua Fang
- Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Zhenwen Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China.
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12
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Türkel İ, Memi G, Yazgan B. Impact of spexin on metabolic diseases and inflammation: An updated minireview. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 247:567-573. [PMID: 35068225 PMCID: PMC9014522 DOI: 10.1177/15353702211072443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a 14 amino acid length peptide hormone which was discovered using bioinformatic tools. It is extensively expressed in central and peripheral tissues and secreted into circulation in response to metabolic stress. Recent studies revealed that SPX acts as a multifunctional peptide in various metabolic processes such as body weight, food intake, energy balance, glucose and lipid metabolism, lipid storage, salt-water balance, and arterial blood pressure. Endogenous SPX is sensitive to metabolic changes, and circulating levels of SPX have been shown to be reduced in chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance. Moreover, in fish and rodent models, systemic SPX treatment has positive effects on metabolism including reduced food intake, fat mass, lipid accumulation, and inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity, energy expenditure, and organ functions which are underlying mechanisms in diseases. Taken together, these findings suggest that SPX is a potential drug target for the development of new pharmacological strategies to cure metabolic diseases. This review focuses on metabolo-protective properties of SPX and discusses novel insights into the biology and mechanism of SPX in the pathogenesis of diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney diseases, which are considerable global health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- İbrahim Türkel
- Division of Exercise and Sport
Physiology, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06800,
Turkey
| | - Gülsün Memi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of
Medicine, Adıyaman University, Adıyaman 02040, Turkey
| | - Burak Yazgan
- Department of Medical Services and
Techniques, Sabuncuoğlu Serefeddin Health Services Vocational School, Amasya
University, Amasya 05100, Turkey
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13
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Fang P, Ge R, She Y, Zhao J, Yan J, Yu X, Jin Y, Shang W, Zhang Z. Adipose tissue spexin in physical exercise and age-associated diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 73:101509. [PMID: 34752956 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It is known that a strong association exists between a suboptimal lifestyle (physical inactivity and sedentary behavior and/or high calorie diet) and increased propensity of developing age-associated diseases, such as obesity and T2DM. Physical exercise can alleviate obesity-induced insulin resistance and T2DM, however, the precise mechanism for this outcome is not fully understood. The endocrine disorder of adipose tissue in obesity plays a critical role in the development of insulin resistance. In this regard, spexin has been recently described as an adipokine that plays an important role in the pathophysiology of obesity-induced insulin resistance and T2DM. In obese states, expression of adipose tissue spexin is reduced, inducing the adipose tissue and skeletal muscle more susceptible to insulin resistance. Emerging evidences point out that exercise can increase spexin expression. In return, spexin could exert the exercise-protective roles to ameliorate insulin resistance, suggesting that spexin is a potential mediator for exercise to ameliorate obesity-induced insulin resistance and T2DM, namely, the beneficial effect of exercise on insulin sensitivity is at least partly mediated by spexin. This review summarizes our and others' recent studies regarding the effects of obesity on adipose tissue spexin induction, along with the potential effect of exercise on this response in obese context, and provides a new insight into the multivariate relationship among exercise, spexin and T2DM. It should be therefore taken into account that a combination of spexin and exercise training is an effective therapeutic strategy for age-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penghua Fang
- Department of Endocrinology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Department of Physiology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Hanlin College, Taizhou, China.
| | - Ran Ge
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Hanlin College, Taizhou, China
| | - Yuqing She
- Department of Endocrinology, Pukou Branch of Jiangsu People's Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Yan
- Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xizhong Yu
- Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Jin
- Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenbin Shang
- Department of Endocrinology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases in Chinese Medicine, First College of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
| | - Zhenwen Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.
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Wang B, Wang K, Tian Z, Cui A, Liu X, Jin Z, Liu X, Jiang Y, Xu Y. New evidence for SPX2 in regulating the brain-pituitary reproductive axis of half-smooth tongue sole ( Cynoglossus semilaevis). Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:984797. [PMID: 35979437 PMCID: PMC9376245 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.984797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is an evolutionarily conserved neuropeptide, which was first identified in human proteome by data mining. Two orthologs (SPX1 and SPX2) are present in some non-mammalian species, including teleosts. It has been demonstrated that SPX1 is involved in reproduction and food intake, whereas the functional role of SPX2 is still absent in any vertebrate. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the actions of intraperitoneal injection of endogenous SPX2 peptide on the expression levels of some key reproductive genes of the brain-pituitary axis in half-smooth tongue sole. Our data showed an inhibitory action of SPX2 on brain gnih, spx1, tac3 and pituitary gthα, lhβ mRNA levels. However, SPX2 had no significant effect on brain gnihr, gnrh2, gnrh3, kiss2, kiss2r, spx2 expression or pituitary gh expression. On the other hand, SPX2 induced an increase in pituitary fshβ expression. Taken together, our results provide initial evidence for the involvement of SPX2 in the regulation of reproduction in vertebrates, which is in accordance with previous studies on SPX1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Joint Laboratory for Deep Blue Fishery Engineering, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
| | - Kaijie Wang
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- National Engineering Research Center For Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, China
| | - Zhenfang Tian
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- College of Fisheries, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, China
| | - Aijun Cui
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Joint Laboratory for Deep Blue Fishery Engineering, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- College of Fisheries and Life Science , Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, China
| | - Zhixin Jin
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- National Engineering Research Center For Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, China
| | - Xuezhou Liu
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Joint Laboratory for Deep Blue Fishery Engineering, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Joint Laboratory for Deep Blue Fishery Engineering, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
| | - Yongjiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, China
- Joint Laboratory for Deep Blue Fishery Engineering, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjiang Xu,
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Assefa F, Kim JA, Lim J, Nam SH, Shin HI, Park EK. The Neuropeptide Spexin Promotes the Osteoblast Differentiation of MC3T3-E1 Cells via the MEK/ERK Pathway and Bone Regeneration in a Mouse Calvarial Defect Model. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2021; 19:189-202. [PMID: 34951679 PMCID: PMC8782952 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-021-00408-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neural regulation of bone regeneration has emerged recently. Spexin (SPX) is a novel neuropeptide and regulates multiple biological functions. However, the effects of SPX on osteogenic differentiation need to be further investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of SPX on osteogenic differentiation, possible underlying mechanisms, and bone regeneration. METHODS In this study, MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with various concentrations of SPX. Cell proliferation, osteogenic differentiation marker expressions, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and mineralization were evaluated using the CCK-8 assay, reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), ALP staining, and alizarin red S staining, respectively. To determine the underlying molecular mechanism of SPX, the phosphorylation levels of signaling molecules were examined via western blot analysis. Moreover, in vivo bone regeneration by SPX (0.5 and 1 µg/µl) was evaluated in a calvarial defect model. New bone formation was analyzed using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histology. RESULTS The results indicated that cell proliferation was not affected by SPX. However, SPX significantly increased ALP activity, mineralization, and the expression of genes for osteogenic differentiation markers, including runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), Alp, collagen alpha-1(I) chain (Col1a1), osteocalcin (Oc), and bone sialoprotein (Bsp). In contrast, SPX downregulated the expression of ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (Enpp1). Moreover, SPX upregulated phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK1/2) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2). In vivo studies, micro-CT and histologic analysis revealed that SPX markedly increased a new bone formation. CONCLUSION Overall, these results demonstrated that SPX stimulated osteogenic differentiation in vitro and increased in vivo bone regeneration via the MEK/ERK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freshet Assefa
- Department of Oral Pathology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, 2177 Dalgubeol-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41940, Korea
| | - Ju Ang Kim
- Department of Oral Pathology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, 2177 Dalgubeol-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41940, Korea
| | - Jiwon Lim
- Department of Oral Pathology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, 2177 Dalgubeol-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41940, Korea
| | - Sang-Hyeon Nam
- Department of Oral Pathology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, 2177 Dalgubeol-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41940, Korea
| | - Hong-In Shin
- Department of Oral Pathology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, 2177 Dalgubeol-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41940, Korea
| | - Eui Kyun Park
- Department of Oral Pathology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, 2177 Dalgubeol-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu, 41940, Korea.
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16
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Mikuła R, Pruszyńska-Oszmałek E, Pszczola M, Rząsińska J, Sassek M, Nowak KW, Nogowski L, Kołodziejski PA. Changes in metabolic and hormonal profiles during transition period in dairy cattle - the role of spexin. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:359. [PMID: 34798894 PMCID: PMC8605515 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03069-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate spexin as a novel blood marker and to describe the relationship of this peptide with selected biochemical metabolites measured during the transition period in dairy cows. Additionally, mRNA expression of the spexin gene as well as spexin receptors - galanin receptor type 2 and galanin receptor type 3, was investigated in several bovine tissues. Blood samples were collected at weekly intervals starting at 21 days before the estimated parturition day until 21 days in milk to determine concentrations of spexin, nonesterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate acid, total and active ghrelin, progesterone, glucose, insulin, IGF-I, triglycerides, cholesterol, leptin, corticosterone and 17-β-estradiol as well as the activity of aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transferase. RESULTS Spexin concentration decreased from 21 d before parturition to calving day and next it rose during the first 14 d of lactation. The lowest concentration of spexin was recorded on the calving day and it differed from the mean level of this peptide before parturition as well as postpartum. Moreover, differences were observed between mean spexin concentrations before and after calving. Spexin levels were moderately negatively correlated with NEFA (r = - 0.39) and total ghrelin contents (r = - 0.41), weakly correlated with BHBA (r = - 0.35) while they showed a moderate positive relationship with progesterone concentrations (r = 0.42). Moreover, we detected that mRNA expression of GALR2, GALR3 and SPX is present in various bovine tissues (kidney, bowel, rumen, spinal cord, lung, skeletal muscle, liver, heart, fat and spleen). CONCLUSION A negative correlation between spexin concentration and NEFA, BHBA and total ghrelin contents as well as a positive relationship with levels of progesterone, metabolites and hormones, which are key players in the dairy cow transition period, may confirm an important function of this peptide in metabolism regulation. Thus measurement of spexin concentration could provide useful supplementary information for dairy cow herd health monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Mikuła
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 33, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Ewa Pruszyńska-Oszmałek
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Marcin Pszczola
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 33, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Justyna Rząsińska
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 33, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Maciej Sassek
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Krzysztof W. Nowak
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Leszek Nogowski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Paweł A. Kołodziejski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Wołyńska 35, 60 –, 637 Poznań, Poland
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Kumar S, Mankowski RT, Anton SD, Babu Balagopal P. Novel insights on the role of spexin as a biomarker of obesity and related cardiometabolic disease. Int J Obes (Lond) 2021; 45:2169-2178. [PMID: 34253845 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-021-00906-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a 14-amino acid neuropeptide, discovered recently using bioinformatic techniques. It is encoded by the Ch12:orf39 gene that is widely expressed in different body tissues/organs across species, and secreted into systemic circulation. Recent reports have highlighted a potentially important regulatory role of SPX in obesity and related comorbidities. SPX is also ubiquitously expressed in human tissues, including white adipose tissue. The circulating concentration of SPX is significantly lower in individuals with obesity compared to normal weight counterparts. SPX's role in obesity appears to be related to various factors, such as the regulation of energy expenditure, appetite, and eating behaviors, increasing locomotion, and inhibiting long-chain fatty acid uptake into adipocytes. Recent reports have also suggested SPX's relationship with novel biomarkers of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and glucose metabolism and evoked the potential role of SPX as a key biomarker/player in the early loss of cardiometabolic health and development of CVD and diabetes later in life. Data on age-related changes in SPX and SPX's response to various interventions are also emerging. The current review focuses on the role of SPX in obesity and related comorbidities across the life span, and its response to interventions in these conditions. It is expected that this article will provide new ideas for future research on SPX and its metabolic regulation, particularly related to cardiometabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Kumar
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Robert T Mankowski
- Department of Aging and Geriatric Research, Institute on Aging, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Stephen D Anton
- Department of Aging and Geriatric Research, Institute on Aging, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - P Babu Balagopal
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Research, Nemours Children's Health System, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
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18
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Chen Y, He M, Lei MML, Ko WKW, Lin C, Bian Z, Wong AOL. Mouse Spexin: (III) Differential Regulation by Glucose and Insulin in Glandular Stomach and Functional Implication in Feeding Control. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:681648. [PMID: 34025589 PMCID: PMC8138665 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.681648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX), a neuropeptide with diverse functions, is a novel satiety factor in fish models and its role in feeding control has been recently confirmed in mammals. In mouse, food intake was shown to trigger SPX expression in glandular stomach with parallel rise in serum SPX and these SPX signals could inhibit feeding via central actions within the hypothalamus. However, the mechanisms for SPX regulation by food intake are still unclear. To examine the role of insulin signal caused by glucose uptake in SPX regulation, the mice were IP injected with glucose and insulin, respectively. In this case, serum SPX was elevated by glucose but not altered by insulin. Meanwhile, SPX transcript expression in the glandular stomach was up-regulated by glucose but the opposite was true for insulin treatment. Using in situ hybridization, the differential effects on SPX gene expression were located in the gastric mucosa of glandular stomach. Co-injection experiments also revealed that glucose stimulation on serum SPX and SPX mRNA expressed in glandular stomach could be blocked by insulin. In gastric mucosal cells prepared from glandular stomach, the opposite effects on SPX transcript expression by glucose and insulin could still be noted with similar blockade of the stimulatory effects of glucose by insulin. In this cell model, SPX gene expression induced by glucose was mediated by glucose uptake via GLUT, ATP synthesis by glycolysis/respiratory chain, and subsequent modulation of KATP channel activity, but the voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels were not involved. The corresponding inhibition by insulin, however, was mediated by PI3K/Akt, MEK1/2/ERK1/2, and P38MAPK cascades coupled to insulin receptor but not IGF-1 receptor. Apparently, glucose uptake in mice can induce SPX expression in the glandular stomach through ATP synthesis via glucose metabolism and subsequent modification of KATP channel activity, which may contribute to SPX release into circulation to act as the satiety signal after food intake. The insulin rise caused by glucose uptake, presumably originated from the pancreas, may serve as a negative feedback to inhibit the SPX response by activating MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways in the stomach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Chen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Mulan He
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Martina M. L. Lei
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Wendy K. W. Ko
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chengyuan Lin
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhaoxiang Bian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Anderson O. L. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Salah NY, Zeid DA, Sabry RN, Fahmy RF, El Abd MA, Awadallah E, Omran A, El Gendy YG. Circulating spexins in children with obesity: relation to cardiometabolic risk. Eur J Clin Nutr 2021; 76:119-125. [PMID: 33850315 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-021-00912-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The role of spexin (SPX) in energy metabolism, endocrinal homeostasis, and vasculopathy is emerging. However, scarce data are available about its role in childhood obesity and obesity-related vasculopathy. Hence, we aimed to assess the level of SPX in obese and normal-weight children, and to correlate it with aortic distensibility (AD) and aortic stiffness index (ASI). SUBJECTS/METHODS Forty obese children were compared to 40 matched normal-weighed children. Weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) z score and mean blood pressure (Bl-Pr) percentile on three different occasions were obtained. SPX, fasting triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density (LDL), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), and insulin were measured with calculation of the homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Internal aortic diameter was measured with calculation of AD, strain (AS), and ASI. RESULTS Children with obesity had significantly lower SPX (P = 0.004), HDL (P < 0.001), and AD (P < 0.001) and higher systolic Bl-Pr (P < 0.001), diastolic Bl-Pr (P < 0.001), LDL (P = 0.011), HOMA-IR (P < 0.001), and ASI (P < 0.001). Significant negative correlation was found between SPX and BMI z score (r = -0.646, P < 0.001), systolic Bl-Pr (r = -0.641, P < 0.001), diastolic Bl-Pr (r = -0.427, P < 0.001), HOMA-IR (r = -0.349, P = 0.028), and ASI (r = -0.389, P = 0.013), while significant positive correlation was found between SPX and AS (P < 0.001, r = 0.633) and AD (P < 0.001, r = 0.612). However, no significant correlation was found between SPX and age (r = -0.01, P = 0.953), TG (r = 0.048, P = 0.767), total cholesterol (r = -0.023, P = 0.887), LDL (r = -0.299, P = 0.061), and HDL (r = 0.193, P = 0.232). CONCLUSIONS Children with obesity had significantly lower SPX than controls. SPX was correlated with BMI, Bl-Pr, HOMA-IR, and vasculopathy in children with obesity independent of their age and lipid profile. Further studies should explore the pathomechanism of SPX and its potential role in the management of obesity and obesity-related cardiometabolic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nouran Y Salah
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Dina Abu Zeid
- Child Health Department, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Rania N Sabry
- Child Health Department, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Reham F Fahmy
- Child Health Department, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mona A El Abd
- Child Health Department, Medical Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Eman Awadallah
- Department of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Azza Omran
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasmin G El Gendy
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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El-Saka MH, Abo El Gheit RE, El Saadany A, Alghazaly GM, Marea KE, Madi NM. Effect of spexin on renal dysfunction in experimentally obese rats: potential mitigating mechanisms via galanin receptor-2. Arch Physiol Biochem 2021:1-10. [PMID: 33632048 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2021.1887265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This study declared effect of spexin (SPX) on renal dysfunction in obese rats and its potential mitigating mechanisms which could mediated via galanin receptor-2 (GALR-2). Thirty two 32 Wistar male rats were arranged into four groups: control, high fat/fructose diet (HFFD), HFFD + SPX and HFFD + M871 (galanin receptor 2 antagonist)+SPX. At the termination of the experiment, urine volume, body mass index, Lee index and mean arterial blood pressure were assessed. Renal function was evaluated. Lipid profile, fasting glucose, insulin, insulin resistance and SPX levels were estimated. Also, renal histopathological, immunohistochemical and relative gene expression of renal tissue were done. Also, renal protein carbonyl, reduced glutathione, interferon gamma, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, interleukin-10 and hydroxyproline were determined.Our results explored that SPX treatment prominently mitigated the metabolic changes and renal dysfunction induced by HFFD via GALR-2. SPX improved insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, renal oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis. So, SPX can be considered as prospective therapeutic agent for treating renal dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Karima E Marea
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Nermin M Madi
- Department of Physiology, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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21
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Kołodziejski PA, Pruszyńska-Oszmałek E, Hejdysz M, Sassek M, Leciejewska N, Ziarniak K, Bień J, Ślósarz P, Kubiś M, Kaczmarek S. Effect of Fasting on the Spexin System in Broiler Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020518. [PMID: 33671411 PMCID: PMC7922423 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The regulation of physiological processes by biologically active substances such as peptides, proteins, or hormones is very important in the context of both the development of the basic sciences and their subsequent use in improving animal husbandry. One such substance is spexin (SPX), a recently discovered, very conservative peptide that has been shown in mammalian studies to be able to regulate food intake, as well as carbohydrate–lipid metabolism. Because there is no information on the role of SPX in the metabolism of birds in the literature, we first decided to determine whether the expression of the gene encoding this peptide is present in the various tissues of birds. A further object of the study was to determine whether the concentration of SPX in serum blood changes during the disturbance of the carbohydrate metabolism caused by starvation and whether these changes correlate with other metabolic parameters. These studies will help us fully understand the role of SPX in bird physiology, and this research should be further extended. Abstract Spexin (SPX) is a highly conservative peptide hormone containing 14 amino acids and was discovered in 2007 by bioinformatics methods. However, nothing is yet known about its role in the metabolism of birds, including broilers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of short-term fasting (2, 4, and 8 h) on the concentration of SPX in blood serum and the expression levels of the genes encoding this peptide (SPX1) and its receptors, GALR2 and GALR3, in the tissues involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism (muscles, adipose tissue, and liver). We also analyzed the mRNA expression of these genes in various chicken tissues. Moreover, we studied the correlation between the serum level of SPX and other metabolic parameters (insulin, glucagon, glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol). Using RT-qPCR, we found that SPX1, GALR2, and GALR3 are expressed in all investigated tissues in broiler chicken. Moreover, using a commercially available radio-immunoassay, we noted an increase of the SPX level in blood serum after 4 and 8 h of fasting compared to nonfasted animals (p < 0.05). This increase was positively correlated with glucagon concentration (r = 0.341; p < 0.05) and negatively with glucose concentration (r = −0.484; p < 0.01). Additionally, we discovered that in the short term, food deprivation leads to the expression regulation of SPX1, GALR2, and GLAR3 in tissues associated with metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. The obtained results indicate that SPX is involved in the regulation of metabolism in broiler chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł A. Kołodziejski
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (E.P.-O.); (M.S.); (N.L.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +48-511-468-396
| | - Ewa Pruszyńska-Oszmałek
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (E.P.-O.); (M.S.); (N.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Marcin Hejdysz
- Department of Animal Breeding and Product Quality Assessment, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Sloneczna 1, 62-002 Zlotniki, Poland; (M.H.); (P.Ś.)
| | - Maciej Sassek
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (E.P.-O.); (M.S.); (N.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Natalia Leciejewska
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (E.P.-O.); (M.S.); (N.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Kamil Ziarniak
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-625 Poznan, Poland;
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland
| | - Jakub Bień
- Department of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Biostructure, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (E.P.-O.); (M.S.); (N.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Piotr Ślósarz
- Department of Animal Breeding and Product Quality Assessment, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Sloneczna 1, 62-002 Zlotniki, Poland; (M.H.); (P.Ś.)
| | - Marta Kubiś
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (M.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Sebastian Kaczmarek
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (M.K.); (S.K.)
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Wong MKH, Chen Y, He M, Lin C, Bian Z, Wong AOL. Mouse Spexin: (II) Functional Role as a Satiety Factor inhibiting Food Intake by Regulatory Actions Within the Hypothalamus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:681647. [PMID: 34276562 PMCID: PMC8283969 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.681647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a pleiotropic peptide with highly conserved protein sequence from fish to mammals and its biological actions are mediated by GalR2/GalR3 receptors expressed in target tissues. Recently, SPX has been confirmed to be a novel satiety factor in fish species but whether the peptide has a similar function in mammals is still unclear. Using the mouse as a model, the functional role of SPX in feeding control and the mechanisms involved were investigated. After food intake, serum SPX in mice could be up-regulated with elevations of transcript expression and tissue content of SPX in the glandular stomach but not in other tissues examined. As revealed by immunohistochemical staining, food intake also intensified SPX signals in the major cell types forming the gastric glands (including the foveolar cells, parietal cells, and chief cells) within the gastric mucosa of glandular stomach. Furthermore, IP injection of SPX was effective in reducing food intake with parallel attenuation in transcript expression of NPY, AgRP, NPY type 5 receptor (NPY5R), and ghrelin receptor (GHSR) in the hypothalamus, and these inhibitory effects could be blocked by GalR3 but not GalR2 antagonism. In agreement with the central actions of SPX, similar inhibition on feeding and hypothalamic expression of NPY, AgRP, NPY5R, and GHSR could also be noted with ICV injection of SPX. In the same study, in contrast to the drop in NPY5R and GHSR, SPX treatment could induce parallel rises of transcript expression of leptin receptor (LepR) and melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) in the hypothalamus. These findings, as a whole, suggest that the role of SPX as a satiety factor is well conserved in the mouse. Apparently, food intake can induce SPX production in glandular stomach and contribute to the postprandial rise of SPX in circulation. Through GalR3 activation, this SPX signal can act within the hypothalamus to trigger feedback inhibition on feeding by differential modulation of feeding regulators (NPY and AgRP) and their receptors (NPY5R, GHSR, LepR, and MC4R) involved in the feeding circuitry within the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K. H. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yuan Chen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Mulan He
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chengyuan Lin
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhaoxiang Bian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Anderson O. L. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- *Correspondence: Anderson O. L. Wong,
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23
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Wong MKH, He M, Sze KH, Huang T, Ko WKW, Bian ZX, Wong AOL. Mouse Spexin: (I) NMR Solution Structure, Docking Models for Receptor Binding, and Histological Expression at Tissue Level. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:681646. [PMID: 34276561 PMCID: PMC8285161 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.681646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX), a highly conserved neuropeptide, is known to have diverse functions and has been implicated/associated with pathological conditions, including obesity, diabetes, anorexia nervosa, and anxiety/mood disorders. Although most of the studies on SPX involved the mouse model, the solution structure of mouse SPX, structural aspects for SPX binding with its receptors GalR2/3, and its cellular expression/distribution in mouse tissues are largely unknown. Using CD and NMR spectroscopies, the solution structure of mouse SPX was shown to be in the form of a helical peptide with a random coil from Asn1 to Pro4 in the N-terminal followed by an α-helix from Gln5 to Gln14 in the C-terminus. The molecular surface of mouse SPX is largely hydrophobic with Lys11 as the only charged residue in the α-helix. Based on the NMR structure obtained, docking models of SPX binding with mouse GalR2 and GalR3 were constructed by homology modeling and MD simulation. The models deduced reveal that the amino acids in SPX, especially Asn1, Leu8, and Leu10, could interact with specific residues in ECL1&2 and TMD2&7 of GalR2 and GalR3 by H-bonding/hydrophobic interactions, which provides the structural evidence to support the idea that the two receptors can act as the cognate receptors for SPX. For tissue distribution of SPX, RT-PCR based on 28 tissues/organs harvested from the mouse demonstrated that SPX was ubiquitously expressed at the tissue level with notable signals detected in the brain, GI tract, liver, gonad, and adrenal gland. Using immunohistochemical staining, protein signals of SPX could be located in the liver, pancreas, white adipose tissue, muscle, stomach, kidney, spleen, gonad, adrenal, and hypothalamo-pituitary axis in a cell type-specific manner. Our results, as a whole, not only can provide the structural information for ligand/receptor interaction for SPX but also establish the anatomical basis for our on-going studies to examine the physiological functions of SPX in the mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K. H. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Mulan He
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Kong Hung Sze
- Department of Microbiology, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Tao Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Wendy K. W. Ko
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhao-Xiang Bian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Anderson O. L. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- *Correspondence: Anderson O. L. Wong,
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Tian Z, Xu S, Wang M, Li Y, Chen H, Tang N, Wang B, Zhang X, Li Z. Identification, tissue distribution, periprandial expression, and anorexigenic effect of spexin in Siberian sturgeon, Acipenser baeri. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2020; 46:2073-2084. [PMID: 32794103 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-020-00856-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Spexin (Spx), an endogenous peptide, is considered to be a neuropeptide. In a few fish and mammals, it has been proved to play a role in the regulation of animal feeding. However, the possible mechanisms of spexin regulating food intake are mostly blurry in vertebrates including Siberian sturgeon. In this study, firstly, the coding sequence of spexin cDNA was cloned and sequenced in Siberian sturgeon. Then, we detected that spexin mRNA was widely expressed in the hypothalamus, gastrointestinal tract, and liver, with the highest expression in the hypothalamus. The expression of spexin mRNA in the hypothalamus was significantly increased after food intake. At 1 h, 3 h, and 6 h after injection, the food intake in the spexin group (0.10, 0.30, and 0.90 μg/g BW) was significantly lower than that in the saline group. Moreover, compared with the saline group, the mRNA expression of anorectic nucb2, cart, ucn3, and pyy in the hypothalamus was significantly upregulated and orectic npy was significantly downregulated at 1 h after spexin injection; in the stomach, the mRNA expression of nucb2 and pyy was significantly upregulated. All in all, these results provide evidence for the anorexic effect of spexin on Siberian sturgeon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengzhi Tian
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shaoqi Xu
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mei Wang
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ya Li
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hu Chen
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ni Tang
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Fisheries College, Ocean University of China, 5# Yushan Road, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiqiong Li
- Department of Aquaculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, 211# Huimin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Spexin as an anxiety regulator in mouse hippocampus: Mechanisms for transcriptional regulation of spexin gene expression by corticotropin releasing factor. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 525:326-333. [PMID: 32093887 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) acts as a neuropeptide with pleiotropic functions that can participate in anxiety regulation. Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) is widely expressed in brain tissues and associated with depression and anxiety and addiction. With the anxious mice under chronic unpredictable stress, we found SPX mRNA expression level in the hippocampus of the brain was significantly reduced, while local CRF mRNA expression level was increased. Furthermore, CRF injection in the hippocampus could also decrease SPX mRNA expression levels in hippocampus and other brain tissues, including pituitary and hypothalamus. With the primary mouse hippocampal cell model, CRF treatment could decrease SPX mRNA expression at hippocampal cell level and this inhibitory effect was mediated only by corticotropin releasing factor receptor 2 (CRFR2) but not corticotropin releasing factor receptor 1 (CRFR1). In HEK293 cells with CRFR2 over-expression, CRF could also inhibit SPX promoter activity coupling with AC/cAMP/PKA and MEK1/2/Erk1/2 cascades. In addition, Epac was also involved with the CRF-repressed SPX promoter activity and cross-talked with MEK1/2/Erk1/2 pathway. CRF could inhibit SPX gene expression in mouse hippocampus via transcriptional activation at the promoter level with coupling of AC/cAMP and MEK1/2/Erk1/2 signaling, which will be relevant to the anxiety response mediated by SPX in central nervous system.
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Huang T, Zhao L, Lin CY, Lu L, Ning ZW, Hu DD, Zhong LLD, Yang ZJ, Bian ZX. Chinese Herbal Medicine (MaZiRenWan) Improves Bowel Movement in Functional Constipation Through Down-Regulating Oleamide. Front Pharmacol 2020; 10:1570. [PMID: 32038247 PMCID: PMC6989537 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In a prospective, randomized, three-arms, controlled clinical study, Chinese Herbal Medicine MaZiRenWan (MZRW, also known as Hemp Seed Pill) demonstrates comparable efficacy with Senna for functional constipation (FC) during an 8-week treatment period. Both MZRW and Senna are better than a placebo; relative to Senna and a placebo, MZRW displayed a more sustained effect during the 8-week follow-up period. The characteristic pharmacological mechanism responsible for this observation is still unclear. To explore this, we collected pre- and post-treatment serum samples of 85 FC patients from MZRW/Senna/placebo treatment groups for pharmacometabolomic analysis. An ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS) was used for metabolic profiling and quantification. In vivo studies were conducted in constipated C57BL/6J mice to verify the effects and corresponding mechanism(s) of the action of MZRW. Pearson correlation analysis, paired t-test, one-way ANOVA analysis, χ2 test, and Student t-test were used to interpret the clinical and preclinical data. Changes in levels of circulating oleamide and its derivatives negatively correlate with improvement in complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) in the MZRW group (Pearson r = -0.59, p = 0.00057). The same did not hold true for either Senna or placebo groups. Oleamide is a known regulator of intestinal motility. MZRW treatment resulted in reduced levels of circulating oleamide in FC patients. Experimental verification showed that MZRW attenuated oleamide-induced slow intestinal motility in mice. MZRW decreased oleamide levels in serum, ileum, and colon in normal mice, but increased expression of colonic fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). In conclusion, MZRW improved bowel movement in FC by down-regulating oleamide, possibly by enhancing FAAH-mediated degradation. Our findings suggest a novel therapeutic strategy for FC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Huang
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ling Zhao
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Cheng-Yuan Lin
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,YMU-HKBU Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Lin Lu
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zi-Wan Ning
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Dong-Dong Hu
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Linda L D Zhong
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhi-Jun Yang
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhao-Xiang Bian
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Lv S, Zhou Y, Feng Y, Zhang X, Wang X, Yang Y, Wang X. Peripheral Spexin Inhibited Food Intake in Mice. Int J Endocrinol 2020; 2020:4913785. [PMID: 32831833 PMCID: PMC7426757 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4913785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX, NPQ), a novel endogenous neuropeptide, was firstly identified by bioinformatics. Spexin gene and protein widely distributed in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues, such as the hypothalamus and digestive tract. The role of spexin in appetite regulation in mammalian is still unclear. The present study was designed to investigate the mechanism and effect of peripheral spexin on food intake in mice. During the light period, an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of spexin (10 nmol/mouse) significantly inhibited cumulative food intake at 2, 4, and 6 h after treatment in fasted mice. During the dark period, spexin (1 and 10 nmol/mouse, i.p.) significantly suppressed cumulative food intake at 4 and 6 h after treatment in freely feeding mice. The GALR3 antagonist SNAP37889, not GALR2 antagonist, significantly antagonized the inhibitory effect on cumulative food intake (0-6 h) induced by spexin. Spexin significantly reduced the mRNA level of Npy mRNA, not Agrp, Pomc, Cart, Crh, Orexin, or Mch, in the hypothalamus. Spexin (10 nmol/mouse, i.p.) increased the number of c-Fos positive neurons in hypothalamic AHA and SCN, but not in ARC, DMN, LHA, PVN, SON, or VMH. The hypothalamic p-CaMK2 protein expression was upregulated by spexin. This study indicated that acute peripheral injection of spexin inhibited mouse food intake. The anorectic effect may be mediated by GALR3, and inhibiting neuropeptide Y (NPY) via p-CaMK2 and c-Fos in the hypothalamus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangyu Lv
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yuchen Zhou
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yu Feng
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Yanjie Yang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Xinchun Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng 475001, China
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Galanin peptide family regulation of glucose metabolism. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 56:100801. [PMID: 31705911 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent preclinical and clinical studies have indicated that the galanin peptide family may regulate glucose metabolism and alleviate insulin resistance, which diminishes the probability of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The galanin was discovered in 1983 as a gut-derived peptide hormone. Subsequently, galanin peptide family was found to exert a series of metabolic effects, including the regulation of gut motility, body weight and glucose metabolism. The galanin peptide family in modulating glucose metabolism received recently increasing recognition because pharmacological activiation of galanin signaling might be of therapeutic value to improve insuin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. To date, however, few papers have summarized the role of the galanin peptide family in modulating glucose metabolism and insulin resistance. In this review we summarize the metabolic effect of galanin peptide family and highlight its glucoregulatory action and discuss the pharmacological value of galanin pathway activiation for the treatment of glucose intolerance and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
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Liu Y, Sun L, Zheng L, Su M, Liu H, Wei Y, Li D, Wang Y, Dai C, Gong Y, Zhao C, Li Y. Spexin protects cardiomyocytes from hypoxia-induced metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2019; 393:25-33. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-019-01708-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Lv SY, Zhou YC, Zhang XM, Chen WD, Wang YD. Emerging Roles of NPQ/Spexin in Physiology and Pathology. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:457. [PMID: 31133851 PMCID: PMC6514225 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX), also called neuropeptide Q (NPQ), is a novel endogenous neuropeptide. Spexin gene and protein are widely expressed in central nervous system and peripheral tissues in humans, rodents, goldfish, etc. A few of physiological and pathological roles of spexin are gradually emerged recently. This article summarized the roles of spexin in feeding behavior, gastrointestinal motility, obesity, diabetes, energy metabolism, endocrine, mental diseases, and cardiovascular function. Given the broad roles of spexin, this neuropeptide has attracted much interest from investigators and will be as a promising future target for novel therapeutic research and drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang-Yu Lv
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yu-Chen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Wei-Dong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yan-Dong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
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Sassek M, Kolodziejski PA, Szczepankiewicz D, Pruszynska-Oszmalek E. Spexin in the physiology of pancreatic islets-mutual interactions with insulin. Endocrine 2019; 63:513-519. [PMID: 30267353 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-018-1766-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Spexin is an interesting peptide, which may play an important role in the regulation of the metabolic homeostasis of an organism. Current knowledge on spexin expression, secretion, and influence on tissues and endocrine glands is very limited. We investigated spexin localization in the endocrine pancreas and measured its in vitro secretion from isolated pancreatic islets at various glucose concentrations, simultaneously monitoring insulin release. Also, gene expression for spexin and insulin was estimated. We found the presence of spexin inside beta cells and an increase in its release from islets after a short term and decrease after a long term following glucose administration. Finally, negative feedback loops between spexin and insulin were found, indicating the presence of multilateral relationships between glucose, insulin, and spexin inside pancreatic islets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Sassek
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska street 35, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| | - Pawel A Kolodziejski
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska street 35, 60-637, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Dawid Szczepankiewicz
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska street 35, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
| | - Ewa Pruszynska-Oszmalek
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska street 35, 60-637, Poznan, Poland
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32
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Lv SY, Cui B, Yang Y, Du H, Zhang X, Zhou Y, Ye W, Nie X, Li Y, Wang Q, Chen WD, Wang YD. Spexin/NPQ Induces FBJ Osteosarcoma Oncogene (Fos) and Produces Antinociceptive Effect against Inflammatory Pain in the Mouse Model. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 189:886-899. [PMID: 30664863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2018.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Spexin/NPQ is a novel highly conserved neuropeptide. It has a widespread expression in the periphery and central nervous system. However, the effects of central spexin on acute inflammatory pain are still unknown. This study explored the mechanisms and effects of supraspinal spexin on inflammatory pain. The results from the mouse formalin test show that i.c.v. administration of spexin decreased licking/biting time during the late and early phases. The nonamidated spexin had no effect on pain response. The antinociception of spexin was blocked by galanin receptor 3 antagonist SNAP 37889. The Galr3 and Adcy4 mRNA levels in the brain were increased after injection with spexin. The antinociceptive effects of spexin were completely reversed by opioid receptor antagonist naloxone and κ-opioid receptor antagonist nor-binaltorphimine dihydrochloride. Spexin up-regulated the dynorphin and κ-opioid receptor gene and protein expression. PCR array assay and real-time PCR analysis show that spexin up-regulated the mRNA level of the FBJ osteosarcoma oncogene (Fos). T-5224, the inhibitor of c FBJ osteosarcoma oncogene (c-Fos)/activator protein 1 (AP-1), blocked the increased mRNA level of Pdyn and Oprk1 induced by spexin. I.C.V. spexin (2.43 mg/kg) increased the number of c-Fos-positive neurons in most subsections of periaqueductal gray. In addition, in the acetic acid-induced writhing test, i.c.v. spexin produced an antinociceptive effect. Our results indicate that spexin might be a novel neuropeptide with an antinociceptive effect against acute inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang-Yu Lv
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Binbin Cui
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yanjie Yang
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Hua Du
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yuchen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Wenling Ye
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiaobo Nie
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, The 969th Hospital of People's Liberation Army of China, Hohhot, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Wei-Dong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Receptors-Mediated Gene Regulation and Drug Discovery, School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China; Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China.
| | - Yan-Dong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China.
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Lim CH, Lee MYM, Soga T, Parhar I. Evolution of Structural and Functional Diversity of Spexin in Mammalian and Non-mammalian Vertebrate Species. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:379. [PMID: 31275244 PMCID: PMC6593056 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) is a novel neuropeptide, which was first identified in the human genome using bioinformatics. Since then, orthologs of human SPX have been identified in mammalian and non-mammalian vertebrates. The mature sequence of SPX, NWTPQAMLYLKGAQ, is evolutionally conserved across vertebrate species, with some variations in teleost species where Ala at position 13 is substituted by Thr. In mammals, the gene structure of SPX comprises six exons and five introns, however, variation exists within non-mammalian species, goldfish and zebrafish having five exons while grouper has six exons. Phylogenetic and synteny analysis, reveal that SPX is grouped together with two neuropeptides, kisspeptin (KISS) and galanin (GAL) as a family of peptides with a common evolutionary ancestor. A paralog of SPX, termed SPX2 has been identified in non-mammalians but not in the mammalian genome. Ligand-receptor interaction study also shows that SPX acts as a ligand for GAL receptor 2 (2a and 2b in non-mammalian vertebrates) and 3. SPX acts as a neuromodulator with multiple central and peripheral physiological roles in the regulation of insulin release, fat metabolism, feeding behavior, and reproduction. Collectively, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the evolutionary diversity as well as molecular and physiological roles of SPX in mammalian and non-mammalian vertebrate species.
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Spexin: A novel regulator of adipogenesis and fat tissue metabolism. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2018; 1863:1228-1236. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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35
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Ma A, Bai J, He M, Wong AOL. Spexin as a neuroendocrine signal with emerging functions. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 265:90-96. [PMID: 29355530 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Spexin (SPX), a novel peptide coevolved with the galanin/kisspeptin family, was first identified by bioinformatics prior to its protein purification/functional studies. Its mature peptide is highly conserved among different vertebrate classes. Based on the studies in mammals and fish models, SPX was found to be widely distributed at tissue level, secreted into systemic circulation, identified at notable levels in central nervous system and peripheral tissues, and has been confirmed/implicated in multiple functions in different tissues/organs, suggesting that SPX may serve as a neuroendocrine signal with pleotropic functions. In this article, different isoforms of SPX and their binding with their cognate receptors GalR2 and GalR3, the biological functions of SPX reported in mammals including GI tract movement, energy balance and weight loss, fatty acid uptake, glucose homeostasis, nociception and cardiovascular/renal functions, as well as the recent findings in fish models regarding the role of SPX in reproduction and feeding control will be reviewed with interesting questions for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ani Ma
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jin Bai
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mulan He
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Anderson O L Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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36
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Zhao L, Huang Y, Lu L, Yang W, Huang T, Lin Z, Lin C, Kwan H, Wong HLX, Chen Y, Sun S, Xie X, Fang X, Yang H, Wang J, Zhu L, Bian Z. Saturated long-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria contribute to enhanced colonic motility in rats. MICROBIOME 2018; 6:107. [PMID: 29903041 PMCID: PMC6003035 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-018-0492-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gut microbiota is closely associated with gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorder, but the mechanism(s) by which bacteria interact with and affect host GI motility remains unclear. In this study, through using metabolomic and metagenomic analyses, an animal model of neonatal maternal separation (NMS) characterized by accelerated colonic motility and gut dysbiosis was used to investigate the mechanism underlying microbiota-driven motility dysfunction. RESULTS An excess of intracolonic saturated long-chain fatty acids (SLCFAs) was associated with enhanced bowel motility in NMS rats. Heptadecanoic acid (C17:0) and stearic acid (C18:0), as the most abundant odd- and even-numbered carbon SLCFAs in the colon lumen, can promote rat colonic muscle contraction and increase stool frequency. Increase of SLCFAs was positively correlated with elevated abundances of Prevotella, Lactobacillus, and Alistipes. Functional annotation found that the level of bacterial LCFA biosynthesis was highly enriched in NMS group. Essential synthetic genes Fabs were largely identified from the genera Prevotella, Lactobacillus, and Alistipes. Pseudo germ-free (GF) rats receiving fecal microbiota from NMS donors exhibited increased defecation frequency and upregulated bacterial production of intracolonic SLCFAs. Modulation of gut dysbiosis by neomycin effectively attenuated GI motility and reduced bacterial SLCFA generation in the colon lumen of NMS rats. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal a previously unknown relationship between gut bacteria, intracolonic SLCFAs, and host GI motility, suggesting the importance of SLCFA-producing bacteria in GI motility disorders. Further exploration of this relationship could lead to a precise medication targeting the gut microbiota for treating GI motility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhao
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Lin Lu
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zesi Lin
- Preparatory Office of Shenzhen-Melbourne Institute of Life Sciences and Bioengineering, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengyuan Lin
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- YMU-HKBU Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Hiuyee Kwan
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hoi Leong Xavier Wong
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yang Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Silong Sun
- BGI Genomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Xiaodong Fang
- BGI Genomics, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Lixin Zhu
- Digestive Diseases and Nutrition Center, Department of Pediatrics, The State University of New York at Buffalo, 3435 Main Street, 422BRB, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA.
| | - Zhaoxiang Bian
- Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Center, Jockey Club School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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37
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Wang S, Wang B, Chen S. Spexin in the half-smooth tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis): molecular cloning, expression profiles, and physiological effects. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2018; 44:829-839. [PMID: 29404821 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-018-0472-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Spexin (SPX), a novel neuropeptide discovered by the bioinformatics approach, has been shown to exert pleiotropic functions in mammals. However, little information regarding the physiological role of SPX is available in teleosts. As a first step, we cloned the spexin gene from a flatfish, the half-smooth tongue sole. The open reading frame (ORF) of tongue sole spexin contained 363 nucleotides encoding a 120 amino acid (aa) preprohormone with a calculated molecular mass and isoelectric point of 14.06 kDa and 5.86, respectively. The tongue sole SPX precursor contained a 27 aa signal peptide and a 14 aa mature peptide flanked by two dibasic protein cleavage sites (RR and GRR). Tissue distribution analysis showed that spexin mRNA could be detected in various tissues, notably in the brain. In addition, fasting stimulated the hypothalamic expression of spexin mRNA. Intraperitoneal injection of SPX increased gnih and gnrh3 mRNA levels in the hypothalamus; however, SPX inhibited the pituitary expression of gh, fshβ, and gthα mRNAs. Overall, our results reveal the existence of a functional SPX in the tongue sole, which could represent an important factor in the neuroendocrine control of flatfish reproduction and growth, and the spexin mRNA expression is regulated by feeding status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengpeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, No. 106 Nanjing Road, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, No. 106 Nanjing Road, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China
| | - Songlin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, No. 106 Nanjing Road, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- Laboratory for Marine Fisheries and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266237, China.
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38
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Lin CY, Zhao L, Huang T, Lu L, Khan M, Liu J, Zhong LLD, Cai ZW, Fan BM, Wong AOL, Bian ZX. Spexin Acts as Novel Regulator for Bile Acid Synthesis. Front Physiol 2018; 9:378. [PMID: 29692737 PMCID: PMC5902714 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin is a novel hormone involved in obesity and diabetes while its biofunctional significance in lipid metabolism is still to be comprehended. Global metabolomic analysis in the present study revealed multiple metabolic pathways altered by spexin intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection in rat serum, which are highlighted by the changes in several bile acid metabolites. In rats, spexin (300 μg/kg) could dramatically reduce hepatic and circulating total bile acids (TBA) level compared with the controls. Correspondingly, treatment with spexin by i.p. injection for 28 days led to significant decrease in serum TBA and gallbladder weight in C57BL/6J mice. In enterohepatic circulation system, spexin effectively reduced TBA levels in mouse liver and gallbladder but not the intestine. Hepatic cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase 1 (CYP7A1) expression, unsurprisingly, was suppressed by spexin injection. Both GALR2 and GALR3 antagonists reversed the inhibitory effects of spexin on concentrations of serum TBA and 7 α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (C4), and hepatic CYP7A1 expression. Finally, negative correlations were observed between serum spexin and total cholesterol (TC), total bile acid (TBA), tauro-chenodeoxycholate (TCDCA), as well as glycochenodeoxycholate (GCDCA) in 91 healthy volunteers. These findings illuminate the intrinsic importance of spexin in the regulation of bile acid synthesis and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yuan Lin
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,YMU-HKBU Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Tao Huang
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Lin Lu
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Mahjabin Khan
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Jie Liu
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Linda L D Zhong
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Zong-Wei Cai
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Bao-Min Fan
- YMU-HKBU Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Anderson O L Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhao-Xiang Bian
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,YMU-HKBU Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
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39
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Lin CY, Huang T, Zhao L, Zhong LLD, Lam WC, Fan BM, Bian ZX. Circulating Spexin Levels Negatively Correlate With Age, BMI, Fasting Glucose, and Triglycerides in Healthy Adult Women. J Endocr Soc 2018; 2:409-419. [PMID: 29687092 PMCID: PMC5905385 DOI: 10.1210/js.2018-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Spexin is a newly identified neuropeptide that is involved in satiety control, glucose, and lipids metabolism. It has also been related to human diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, whether spexin changes with age or not is still unclear. Objective The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between circulating spexin levels and age and to study their interaction effects on body mass index (BMI), fasting glucose, and -lipids. Design and Participants This is a cross-sectional study, including 68 healthy adult women whose ages are in a wide range (minimum: 23; median: 38.5; maximum: 64). Outcome Measures The serum spexin levels were measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Fasting glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, urea, and creatinine were measured by routine biochemical test. Shapiro-Wilk’s test, Spearman and Pearson correlation analyses, χ2 test, and two-way analysis of variance were used to interpret the data. Results Serum spexin levels are significantly correlated with age (Spearman r = −0.277, P = 0.022), BMI (Spearman r = −0.445, P < 0.001), fasting glucose (Spearman r = −0.302, P = 0.014), and TG (Spearman r = −0.324, P = 0.008). Spexin levels independently predict the risk of high BMI and high fasting glucose. No interaction effects of spexin and age on BMI and fasting glucose were found. Conclusions Circulating spexin levels decrease with age, suggesting a possible role of this peptide in aging-related functions and disorders. Further investigations are needed to expand the clinical significance of this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yuan Lin
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.,Yunnan Minzu University-Hong Kong Baptist University Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Linda L D Zhong
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Wai Ching Lam
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Bao-Min Fan
- Yunnan Minzu University-Hong Kong Baptist University Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhao-Xiang Bian
- Institute of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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40
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Huang T, Ning Z, Hu D, Zhang M, Zhao L, Lin C, Zhong LLD, Yang Z, Xu H, Bian Z. Uncovering the Mechanisms of Chinese Herbal Medicine (MaZiRenWan) for Functional Constipation by Focused Network Pharmacology Approach. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:270. [PMID: 29632490 PMCID: PMC5879454 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MaZiRenWan (MZRW, also known as Hemp Seed Pill) is a Chinese Herbal Medicine which has been demonstrated to safely and effectively alleviate functional constipation (FC) in a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study with 120 subjects. However, the underlying pharmacological actions of MZRW for FC, are still largely unknown. We systematically analyzed the bioactive compounds of MZRW and mechanism-of-action biological targets through a novel approach called “focused network pharmacology.” Among the 97 compounds identified by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS in MZRW extract, 34 were found in rat plasma, while 10 were found in rat feces. Hierarchical clustering analysis suggest that these compounds can be classified into component groups, in which compounds are highly similar to each other and most of them are from the same herb. Emodin, amygdalin, albiflorin, honokiol, and naringin were selected as representative compounds of corresponding component groups. All of them were shown to induce spontaneous contractions of rat colonic smooth muscle in vitro. Network analysis revealed that biological targets in acetylcholine-, estrogen-, prostaglandin-, cannabinoid-, and purine signaling pathways are able to explain the prokinetic effects of representative compounds and corresponding component groups. In conclusion, MZRW active components enhance colonic motility, possibly by acting on multiple targets and pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Huang
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Ziwan Ning
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Dongdong Hu
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Engineering Research Center of Shanghai Colleges for TCM New Drug Discovery, Shanghai, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Guangzhou Research Institute of Snake Venom, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Chengyuan Lin
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,YMU-HKBU Joint Laboratory of Traditional Natural Medicine, Yunnan Minzu University, Kunming, China
| | - Linda L D Zhong
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhijun Yang
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Hongxi Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Engineering Research Center of Shanghai Colleges for TCM New Drug Discovery, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaoxiang Bian
- Lab of Brain and Gut Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong.,Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Clinical Study Centre, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
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41
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KOŁODZIEJSKI PA, PRUSZYŃSKA-OSZMAŁEK E, KOREK E, SASSEK M, SZCZEPANKIEWICZ D, KACZMAREK P, NOGOWSKI L, MAĆKOWIAK P, NOWAK KW, KRAUSS H, STROWSKI MZ. Serum Levels of Spexin and Kisspeptin Negatively Correlate With Obesity and Insulin Resistance in Women. Physiol Res 2018; 67:45-56. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spexin (SPX) and kisspeptin (KISS) are novel peptides relevant in the context of regulation of metabolism, food intake, puberty and reproduction. Here, we studied changes of serum SPX and KISS levels in female non-obese volunteers (BMI<25 kg/m2) and obese patients (BMI>35 kg/m2). Correlations between SPX or KISS with BMI, McAuley index, QUICKI, HOMA IR, serum levels of insulin, glucagon, leptin, adiponectin, orexin-A, obestatin, ghrelin and GLP-1 were assessed. Obese patients had lower SPX and KISS levels as compared to non-obese volunteers (SPX: 4.48±0.19 ng/ml vs. 6.63±0.29 ng/ml; p<0.001, KISS: 1.357±0.15 nmol/l vs. 2.165±0.174 nmol/l; p<0.01). SPX negatively correlated with BMI, HOMA-IR, insulin, glucagon, active ghrelin and leptin. Positive correlations were found between SPX and QUICKI index, McAuley index, serum levels of obestatin, GLP-1 and adiponectin and orexin-A Serum KISS negatively correlated with BMI, HOMA-IR, serum levels of insulin, glucagon, active ghrelin and leptin. KISS positively correlated with QUICKI index, McAuley index and adiponectin. In summary, SPX and KISS show negative correlations with obesity, insulin resistance indices, and hormones known to affect insulin sensitivity in females. Both, SPX and KISS could be therefore relevant in the pathophysiology of obesity and insulin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. A. KOŁODZIEJSKI
- Department of Animal Physiology and Biochemistry, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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42
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Luo X, Xue L, Xu H, Zhao QY, Wang Q, She YS, Zang DA, Shen J, Peng YB, Zhao P, Yu MF, Chen W, Ma LQ, Chen S, Chen S, Fu X, Hu S, Nie X, Shen C, Zou C, Qin G, Dai J, Ji G, Su Y, Hu S, Chen J, Liu QH. Polygonum aviculare L. extract and quercetin attenuate contraction in airway smooth muscle. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3114. [PMID: 29449621 PMCID: PMC5814568 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20409-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of the serious side effects of the currently used bronchodilators, new compounds with similar functions must be developed. We screened several herbs and found that Polygonum aviculare L. contains ingredients that inhibit the precontraction of mouse and human airway smooth muscle (ASM). High K+-induced precontraction in ASM was completely inhibited by nifedipine, a selective blocker of L-type voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (LVDCCs). However, nifedipine only partially reduced the precontraction induced by acetylcholine chloride (ACH). Additionally, the ACH-induced precontraction was partly reduced by pyrazole-3 (Pyr3), a selective blocker of TRPC3 and stromal interaction molecule (STIM)/Orai channels. These channel-mediated currents were inhibited by the compounds present in P. aviculare extracts, suggesting that this inhibition was mediated by LVDCCs, TRPC3 and/or STIM/Orai channels. Moreover, these channel-mediated currents were inhibited by quercetin, which is present in P. aviculare extracts. Furthermore, quercetin inhibited ACH-induced precontraction in ASM. Overall, our data indicate that the ethyl acetate fraction of P. aviculare and quercetin can inhibit Ca2+-permeant LVDCCs, TRPC3 and STIM/Orai channels, which inhibits the precontraction of ASM. These findings suggest that P. aviculare could be used to develop new bronchodilators to treat obstructive lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Luo
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Lu Xue
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Qing-Yang Zhao
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yu-Shan She
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Dun-An Zang
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jinhua Shen
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yong-Bo Peng
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Meng-Fei Yu
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Weiwei Chen
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Li-Qun Ma
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Shu Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430032, Hubei, China
| | - Shanshan Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430032, Hubei, China
| | - Xiangning Fu
- Department of Thoracic, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430032, Hubei, China
| | - Sheng Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hubei Cancer Hospital, Wuhan, 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaowei Nie
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Lung Transplant Group, Wuxi People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenyou Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Lung Transplant Group, Wuxi People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunbin Zou
- Acute Lung Injury Center of Excellence, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine., Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Gangjian Qin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine & School of Engineering, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Jiapei Dai
- Wuhan Institute for Neuroscience and Engineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Guangju Ji
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yunchao Su
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Shen Hu
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jingyu Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Lung Transplant Group, Wuxi People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Qing-Hua Liu
- Institute for Medical Biology and Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory for Protection and Application of Special Plants in Wuling Area of China, College of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, China.
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