1
|
Colombo E, Bacigaluppi M, Bartoccetti M, Triolo D, Bassani C, Bergamaschi A, Descamps HC, Gullotta GS, Henley M, Piccoli M, Anastasia L, Pitt D, Newcombe J, Martino G, Farina C. Astrocyte TrkB promotes brain injury and edema formation in ischemic stroke. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 201:106670. [PMID: 39303814 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106670] [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: 07/23/2024] [Revised: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Following ischemic stroke astrocytes undergo rapid molecular and functional changes that may accentuate tissue damage. In this study we identified the neurotrophin receptor TrkB in astrocytes as a key promoter of acute CNS injury in ischemic stroke. In fact, TrkB protein was strongly upregulated in astrocytes after human and experimental stroke, and transgenic mice lacking astrocyte TrkB displayed significantly smaller lesion volume, lower brain atrophy and better motor performance than control animals after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Neuropathological studies evidenced that edema directly correlated with astrogliosis and was limited in transgenic mice. Importantly, adaptive levels of the water channel AQP4 was astrocyte TrkB-dependent as AQP4 upregulation after stroke did not occur in mice lacking astrocyte TrkB. In vitro experiments with wild-type and/or TrkB-deficient astrocytes highlighted TrkB-dependent upregulation of AQP4 via activation of HIF1-alpha under hypoxia. Collectively, our observations indicate that TrkB signaling in astrocytes contributes to the development of edema and worsens cerebral ischemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Colombo
- Immunobiology of Neurological Disorders Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bacigaluppi
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Bartoccetti
- Immunobiology of Neurological Disorders Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Triolo
- Immunobiology of Neurological Disorders Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Bassani
- Immunobiology of Neurological Disorders Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Bergamaschi
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Hélène C Descamps
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Serena Gullotta
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Henley
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Marco Piccoli
- Institute for Molecular and Translational Cardiology (IMTC), IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Anastasia
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; Institute for Molecular and Translational Cardiology (IMTC), IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - David Pitt
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Jia Newcombe
- NeuroResource, Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Gianvito Martino
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Cinthia Farina
- Immunobiology of Neurological Disorders Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSpe), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Martínez-Torres AM, Morán J. Aquaporin 4 and the endocannabinoid system: a potential therapeutic target in brain injury. Exp Brain Res 2024; 242:2041-2058. [PMID: 39043897 PMCID: PMC11306651 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-024-06896-7] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Brain edema is a critical complication arising from stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) with an important impact on patient recovery and can lead to long-term consequences. Therapeutic options to reduce edema progression are limited with variable patient outcomes. Aquaporin 4 (AQP4) is a water channel that allows bidirectional water diffusion across the astrocyte membrane and participates in the distinct phases of cerebral edema. The absence or inhibition of this channel has been demonstrated to ameliorate edema and brain damage. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a neuromodulator system with a wide expression in the brain and its activation has shown neuroprotective properties in diverse models of neuronal damage. This review describes and discusses the major features of ECS and AQP4 and their role during brain damage, observing that ECS stimulation reduces edema and injury size in diverse models of brain damage, however, the relationship between AQP4 expression and dynamics and ECS activation remains unclear. The research on these topics holds promising therapeutic implications for the treatment of brain edema following stroke and TBI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ari Misael Martínez-Torres
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Apartado Postal 70-253, 04510, Ciudad de Mexico, México
| | - Julio Morán
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Apartado Postal 70-253, 04510, Ciudad de Mexico, México.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Radford-Smith D, Ng TT, Yates AG, Dunstan I, Claridge TDW, Anthony DC, Probert F. Ex-Vivo 13C NMR Spectroscopy of Rodent Brain: TNF Restricts Neuronal Utilization of Astrocyte-Derived Metabolites. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:3383-3392. [PMID: 38943617 PMCID: PMC11301676 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.4c00035] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) has well-established roles in neuroinflammatory disorders, but the effect of TNF on the biochemistry of brain cells remains poorly understood. Here, we microinjected TNF into the brain to study its impact on glial and neuronal metabolism (glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, citric acid cycle, pyruvate dehydrogenase, and pyruvate carboxylase pathways) using 13C NMR spectroscopy on brain extracts following intravenous [1,2-13C]-glucose (to probe glia and neuron metabolism), [2-13C]-acetate (probing astrocyte-specific metabolites), or [3-13C]-lactate. An increase in [4,5-13C]-glutamine and [2,3-13C]-lactate coupled with a decrease in [4,5-13C]-glutamate was observed in the [1,2-13C]-glucose-infused animals treated with TNF. As glutamine is produced from glutamate by astrocyte-specific glutamine synthetase the increase in [4,5-13C]-glutamine reflects increased production of glutamine by astrocytes. This was confirmed by infusion with astrocyte substrate [2-13C]-acetate. As lactate is metabolized in the brain to produce glutamate, the simultaneous increase in [2,3-13C]-lactate and decrease in [4,5-13C]-glutamate suggests decreased lactate utilization, which was confirmed using [3-13C]-lactate as a metabolic precursor. These results suggest that TNF rearranges the metabolic network, disrupting the energy supply chain perturbing the glutamine-glutamate shuttle between astrocytes and the neurons. These insights pave the way for developing astrocyte-targeted therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating effects of TNF to restore metabolic homeostasis in neuroinflammatory disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Radford-Smith
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, U.K.
- Pharmacology
Department, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, U.K.
| | - Tang T. Ng
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, U.K.
| | - Abi G. Yates
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, U.K.
- Pharmacology
Department, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, U.K.
| | - Isobel Dunstan
- Pharmacology
Department, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, U.K.
| | | | | | - Fay Probert
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen YY, Gong ZC, Zhang MM, Huang ZH. Brain-Targeting Emodin Mitigates Ischemic Stroke via Inhibiting AQP4-Mediated Swelling and Neuroinflammation. Transl Stroke Res 2024; 15:818-830. [PMID: 37380800 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-023-01170-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Failure to achieve target-specific delivery to ischemic brain sites has hampered the clinical efficacy of newly developed therapies for ischemic stroke. Emodin, an active ingredient isolated from traditional Chinese medicine, has been indicated to alleviate ischemic stroke; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to achieve brain-targeted delivery of emodin to maximize its therapeutic efficacy and elucidate the mechanisms by which emodin alleviates ischemic stroke. A polyethylene glycol (PEG)/cyclic Arg-Gly-Asp (cRGD)-modified liposome was used to encapsulate emodin. TTC, HE, Nissl staining, and immunofluorescence staining were employed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of brain-targeting emodin in MCAO and OGD/R models. Inflammatory cytokine levels were determined using ELISA. Immunoprecipitation, immunoblotting, and RT-qPCR were utilized for clarifying the changes in key downstream signaling. Lentivirus-mediated gene restoration was employed to verify the core effector of emodin for relieving ischemic stroke. Encapsulating emodin in a PEG/cRGD-modified liposome enhanced its accumulation in the infarct region and substantially raised its therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, we demonstrated that AQP4, the most abundant water transporter subunit expressed in astrocytes, plays a crucial role in mediating the mechanisms by which emodin inhibits astrocyte swelling, neuroinflammatory blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown in vivo and in vitro, and brain edema in general. Our study unveiled the critical target of emodin responsible for alleviating ischemic stroke and a localizable drug delivery vehicle in the therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke and other brain injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Yan Chen
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, and Wuxi Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China.
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Zhi-Cheng Gong
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, and Wuxi Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mei-Mei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for TCM Compatibility, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xi'an, 712046, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Huang
- Wuxi Cancer Institute, and Wuxi Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214062, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jong Huat T, Camats-Perna J, Newcombe EA, Onraet T, Campbell D, Sucic JT, Martini A, Forner S, Mirzaei M, Poon W, LaFerla FM, Medeiros R. The impact of astrocytic NF-κB on healthy and Alzheimer's disease brains. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14305. [PMID: 38906984 PMCID: PMC11192733 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65248-1] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes play a role in healthy cognitive function and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The transcriptional factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) drives astrocyte diversity, but the mechanisms are not fully understood. By combining studies in human brains and animal models and selectively manipulating NF-κB function in astrocytes, we deepened the understanding of the role of astrocytic NF-κB in brain health and AD. In silico analysis of bulk and cell-specific transcriptomic data revealed the association of NF-κB and astrocytes in AD. Confocal studies validated the higher level of p50 NF-κB and phosphorylated-p65 NF-κB in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)+-astrocytes in AD versus non-AD subjects. In the healthy mouse brain, chronic activation of astrocytic NF-κB disturbed the proteomic milieu, causing a loss of mitochondrial-associated proteins and the rise of inflammatory-related proteins. Sustained NF-κB signaling also led to microglial reactivity, production of pro-inflammatory mediators, and buildup of senescence-related protein p16INK4A in neurons. However, in an AD mouse model, NF-κB inhibition accelerated β-amyloid and tau accumulation. Molecular biology studies revealed that astrocytic NF-κB activation drives the increase in GFAP and inflammatory proteins and aquaporin-4, a glymphatic system protein that assists in mitigating AD. Our investigation uncovered fundamental mechanisms by which NF-κB enables astrocytes' neuroprotective and neurotoxic responses in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tee Jong Huat
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Stem Cell Ageing and Regenerative Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Judith Camats-Perna
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Estella A Newcombe
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tessa Onraet
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Daniel Campbell
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Josiah T Sucic
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Alessandra Martini
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, 3400A Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697-4545, USA
| | - Stefânia Forner
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, 3400A Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697-4545, USA
| | - Mehdi Mirzaei
- Clinical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Wayne Poon
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, 3400A Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697-4545, USA
| | - Frank M LaFerla
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, 3400A Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697-4545, USA
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Rodrigo Medeiros
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, 3400A Biological Sciences III, Irvine, CA, 92697-4545, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Czyżewski W, Litak J, Sobstyl J, Mandat T, Torres K, Staśkiewicz G. Aquaporins: Gatekeepers of Fluid Dynamics in Traumatic Brain Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6553. [PMID: 38928258 PMCID: PMC11204105 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs), particularly AQP4, play a crucial role in regulating fluid dynamics in the brain, impacting the development and resolution of edema following traumatic brain injury (TBI). This review examines the alterations in AQP expression and localization post-injury, exploring their effects on brain edema and overall injury outcomes. We discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms regulating AQP expression, highlighting potential therapeutic strategies to modulate AQP function. These insights provide a comprehensive understanding of AQPs in TBI and suggest novel approaches for improving clinical outcomes through targeted interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Czyżewski
- Department of Neurosurgery, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, ul. W.K. Roentgena 5, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland;
- Department of Didactics and Medical Simulation, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jakub Litak
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Jan Sobstyl
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Mandat
- Department of Neurosurgery, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, ul. W.K. Roentgena 5, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Kamil Torres
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive Surgery with Microsurgery, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Grzegorz Staśkiewicz
- Department of Human, Clinical and Radiological Anatomy, Medical University, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Giannetto MJ, Gomolka RS, Gahn-Martinez D, Newbold EJ, Bork PAR, Chang E, Gresser M, Thompson T, Mori Y, Nedergaard M. Glymphatic fluid transport is suppressed by the aquaporin-4 inhibitor AER-271. Glia 2024; 72:982-998. [PMID: 38363040 PMCID: PMC11203403 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24515] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The glymphatic system transports cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the brain via arterial perivascular spaces and removes interstitial fluid from the brain along perivenous spaces and white matter tracts. This directional fluid flow supports the clearance of metabolic wastes produced by the brain. Glymphatic fluid transport is facilitated by aquaporin-4 (AQP4) water channels, which are enriched in the astrocytic vascular endfeet comprising the outer boundary of the perivascular space. Yet, prior studies of AQP4 function have relied on genetic models, or correlated altered AQP4 expression with glymphatic flow in disease states. Herein, we sought to pharmacologically manipulate AQP4 function with the inhibitor AER-271 to assess the contribution of AQP4 to glymphatic fluid transport in mouse brain. Administration of AER-271 inhibited glymphatic influx as measured by CSF tracer infused into the cisterna magna and inhibited increases in the interstitial fluid volume as measured by diffusion-weighted MRI. Furthermore, AER-271 inhibited glymphatic efflux as assessed by an in vivo clearance assay. Importantly, AER-271 did not affect AQP4 localization to the astrocytic endfeet, nor have any effect in AQP4 deficient mice. Since acute pharmacological inhibition of AQP4 directly decreased glymphatic flow in wild-type but not in AQP4 deficient mice, we foresee AER-271 as a new tool for manipulation of the glymphatic system in rodent brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Giannetto
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Ryszard S. Gomolka
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel Gahn-Martinez
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Evan J. Newbold
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Peter A. R. Bork
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, Richard Petersens Plads, 2800 Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Ethan Chang
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Michael Gresser
- Aeromics Inc., 470 James Street Suite 007, New Haven, CT 06513
| | - Trevor Thompson
- Aeromics Inc., 470 James Street Suite 007, New Haven, CT 06513
| | - Yuki Mori
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Firth W, Pye KR, Weightman Potter PG. Astrocytes at the intersection of ageing, obesity, and neurodegeneration. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:515-536. [PMID: 38652065 DOI: 10.1042/cs20230148] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Once considered passive cells of the central nervous system (CNS), glia are now known to actively maintain the CNS parenchyma; in recent years, the evidence for glial functions in CNS physiology and pathophysiology has only grown. Astrocytes, a heterogeneous group of glial cells, play key roles in regulating the metabolic and inflammatory landscape of the CNS and have emerged as potential therapeutic targets for a variety of disorders. This review will outline astrocyte functions in the CNS in healthy ageing, obesity, and neurodegeneration, with a focus on the inflammatory responses and mitochondrial function, and will address therapeutic outlooks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wyn Firth
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, U.K
| | - Katherine R Pye
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, U.K
| | - Paul G Weightman Potter
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fan W, Chen H, Li M, Fan X, Jiang F, Xu C, Wang Y, Wei W, Song J, Zhong D, Li G. NRF2 activation ameliorates blood-brain barrier injury after cerebral ischemic stroke by regulating ferroptosis and inflammation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5300. [PMID: 38438409 PMCID: PMC10912757 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53836-0] [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: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Arterial occlusion-induced ischemic stroke (IS) is a highly frequent stroke subtype. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a transcription factor that modulates antioxidant genes. Its role in IS is still unelucidated. The current study focused on constructing a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) model for investigating the NRF2-related mechanism underlying cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Each male C57BL/6 mouse was injected with/with no specific NRF2 activator post-tMCAO. Changes in blood-brain barrier (BBB)-associated molecule levels were analyzed using western-blotting, PCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence analysis. NRF2 levels within cerebral I/R model decreased at 24-h post-ischemia. NRF2 activation improved brain edema, infarct volume, and neurological deficits after MCAO/R. Similarly, sulforaphane (SFN) prevented the down-regulated tight junction proteins occludin and zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) and reduced the up-regulated aquaporin 4 (AQP4) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) after tMCAO. Collectively, NRF2 exerted a critical effect on preserving BBB integrity modulating ferroptosis and inflammation. Because NRF2 is related to BBB injury regulation following cerebral I/R, this provides a potential therapeutic target and throws light on the underlying mechanism for clinically treating IS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Fan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongping Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuehui Fan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangchao Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingju Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Wan Wei
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jihe Song
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Zhong
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Guozhong Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 23 You Zheng Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Neurology, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, 82 Zhong Shan Street, Harbin, 150001, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li Y, Zhao B, Peng J, Tang H, Wang S, Peng S, Ye F, Wang J, Ouyang K, Li J, Cai M, Chen Y. Inhibition of NF-κB signaling unveils novel strategies to overcome drug resistance in cancers. Drug Resist Updat 2024; 73:101042. [PMID: 38219532 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.101042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Drug resistance in cancer remains a major challenge in oncology, impeding the effectiveness of various treatment modalities. The nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway has emerged as a critical player in the development of drug resistance in cancer cells. This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between NF-κB and drug resistance in cancer. We delve into the molecular mechanisms through which NF-κB activation contributes to resistance against chemotherapeutic agents, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. Additionally, we discuss potential strategies to overcome this resistance by targeting NF-κB signaling, such as small molecule inhibitors and combination therapies. Understanding the multifaceted interactions between NF-κB and drug resistance is crucial for the development of more effective cancer treatment strategies. By dissecting the complex signaling network of NF-κB, we hope to shed light on novel therapeutic approaches that can enhance treatment outcomes, ultimately improving the prognosis for cancer patients. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on NF-κB and its role in drug resistance, offering insights that may guide future research and therapeutic interventions in the fight against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer,Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Baiwei Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer,Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Juzheng Peng
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Hailin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer,Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Sicheng Wang
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, China
| | - Sicheng Peng
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, China
| | - Feng Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer,Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Junye Wang
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, China
| | - Kai Ouyang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Jianjun Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Manbo Cai
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
| | - Yongming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer,Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mohammad AR, Hassan ES, Majeed SA. PI3K/AKT and STAT3 pathways mediate the neuroprotective effect of dasatinib from acute cerebral injury in endotoxemic mice. Res Pharm Sci 2024; 19:64-72. [PMID: 39006974 PMCID: PMC11244703 DOI: 10.4103/1735-5362.394821] [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: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Sepsis induces brain dysfunction and there is still a requirement for an unemployed viable restorative approach. This study aimed to investigate the role of dasatinib in the modulation of proinflammatory mediators, attenuating neuroinflammatory response, and it's signaling pathway during endotoxemia. Experimental approach Twenty-four adult male Swiss-albino mice were randomized into four groups: sham (undergo laparotomy without cecal ligation and puncture, sepsis (laparotomy with cecal ligation and puncture), vehicle-dimethyl sulfoxide, dasatinib (20 mg/kg/day) intraperitoneally. Brain tissue used for assessment of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-10, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), protein kinase B (AKT), phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and histopathological examination. Findings/Results Brain tissue levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL1 β were higher in the sepsis group than in the sham and vehicle groups. The dasatinib group had considerably lower tissue levels of these markers and significantly higher tissue values of IL-10 than the sepsis and vehicle groups. The sham group had much lower tissue values of TLR4, AKT, STAT3, and PI3k than in sepsis and vehicle groups. Furthermore, tissue levels of these markers in the dasatinib group were considerably lower than those in the sepsis and vehicle groups. Histopathology demonstrated that dasatinib might considerably reduce brain damage and the intensity of neuroinflammation when compared to sepsis and vehicle groups that showed extensive brain inflammation and damage. Conclusion and implication Dasatinib attenuated endotoxemia-induced acute brain damage in mice via modulating effects on TLR4, PI3K, AKT, and STAT3 downstream signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Rasoul Mohammad
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Ekhlas Sabah Hassan
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Sahar Abdulrudha Majeed
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Albini M, Krawczun-Rygmaczewska A, Cesca F. Astrocytes and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Neurosci Res 2023; 197:42-51. [PMID: 36780947 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are emerging in the neuroscience field as crucial modulators of brain functions, from the molecular control of synaptic plasticity to orchestrating brain-wide circuit activity for cognitive processes. The cellular pathways through which astrocytes modulate neuronal activity and plasticity are quite diverse. In this review, we focus on neurotrophic pathways, mostly those mediated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Neurotrophins are a well-known family of trophic factors with pleiotropic functions in neuronal survival, maturation and activity. Within the brain, BDNF is the most abundantly expressed and most studied of all neurotrophins. While we have detailed knowledge of the effect of BDNF on neurons, much less is known about its physiology on astroglia. However, over the last years new findings emerged demonstrating that astrocytes take an active part into BDNF physiology. In this work, we discuss the state-of-the-art knowledge about astrocytes and BDNF. Indeed, astrocytes sense extracellular BDNF through its specific TrkB receptors and activate intracellular responses that greatly vary depending on the brain area, stage of development and receptors expressed. Astrocytes also uptake and recycle BDNF / proBDNF at synapses contributing to synaptic plasticity. Finally, experimental evidence is now available describing deficits in astrocytic BDNF in several neuropathologies, suggesting that astrocytic BDNF may represent a promising target for clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Albini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Italy; IIT Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Genova, Italy
| | - Alicja Krawczun-Rygmaczewska
- IIT Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Genova, Italy; Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Cesca
- IIT Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Genova, Italy; Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
He B, Zhang Z, Huang Z, Duan X, Wang Y, Cao J, Li L, He K, Nice EC, He W, Gao W, Shen Z. Protein persulfidation: Rewiring the hydrogen sulfide signaling in cell stress response. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 209:115444. [PMID: 36736962 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The past few decades have witnessed significant progress in the discovery of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as a ubiquitous gaseous signaling molecule in mammalian physiology, akin to nitric oxide and carbon monoxide. As the third gasotransmitter, H2S is now known to exert a wide range of physiological and cytoprotective functions in the biological systems. However, endogenous H2S concentrations are usually low, and its potential biologic mechanisms responsible have not yet been fully clarified. Recently, a growing body of evidence has demonstrated that protein persulfidation, a posttranslational modification of cysteine residues (RSH) to persulfides (RSSH) elicited by H2S, is a fundamental mechanism of H2S-mediated signaling pathways. Persulfidation, as a biological switch for protein function, plays an important role in the maintenance of cell homeostasis in response to various internal and external stress stimuli and is also implicated in numerous diseases, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. In this review, the biological significance of protein persulfidation by H2S in cell stress response is reviewed providing a framework for understanding the multifaceted roles of H2S. A mechanism-guided perspective can help open novel avenues for the exploitation of therapeutics based on H2S-induced persulfidation in the context of diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo He
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhao Huang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xirui Duan
- Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Yu Wang
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiangjun Cao
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lei Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Kai He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Edouard C Nice
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Weifeng He
- Institute of Burn Research, Southwest Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burn and Combined Injury, Chongqing Key Laboratory for Disease Proteomics, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Wei Gao
- Clinical Genetics Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Medical College of Chengdu University, Chengdu 610081, China.
| | - Zhisen Shen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315040, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang T, Liang W, Zhang M, Cui S, Huang X, Ou W, Huang R, Gao J, Jia Z, Zhang S. Daphnetin Improves Neuropathic Pain by Inhibiting the Expression of Chemokines and Inflammatory Factors in the Spinal Cord and Interfering with Glial Cell Polarization. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:243. [PMID: 37259390 PMCID: PMC9964401 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common pain disease that seriously affects the quality of life and physical and mental health of patients. Daphnetin is extracted from the Daphne giraldii Nitsche and has the structure of 7,8-dihydroxy coumarin. As a natural product, daphnetin displays a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as analgesia and anti-inflammatory activities, but whether it is able to improve NP through anti-inflammatory effects is unknown. Therefore, this paper intends to investigate the mechanism of daphnetin in improving NP rats affected by the intrathecal injection of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) from the perspective of anti-inflammation. Our results showed that daphnetin significantly improved hyperalgesia in NP rats. Daphnetin inhibited the activation and polarization of glial cells and neurons in the spinal cord of NP rats and reduced the expression of mRNA and protein of inflammatory factors and chemokine pairs in the spinal cord. Daphnetin inhibited the polarization of human microglia cell 3 (HMC3) cells and human glioma cells (U251) cells toward M1 microglia and A1 astrocytes, respectively, and induced the conversion of M1 microglia and A1 astrocytes to M2 microglia and A2 astrocytes, respectively. In conclusion, daphnetin ameliorates NP by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors and chemokines and the polarization of glial cells in the spinal cord of NP rats. This study provides a theoretical basis for the treatment of NP with daphnetin to expand the clinical application of daphnetin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Shuofeng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| |
Collapse
|