1
|
Serafini RA, Farzinpour Z, Patel V, Kelley AM, Estill M, Pryce KD, Sakloth F, Teague CD, Torres-Berrio A, Nestler EJ, Shen L, Akbarian S, Karkhanis AN, Blitzer RD, Zachariou V. Nucleus accumbens myocyte enhancer factor 2C mediates the maintenance of peripheral nerve injury-induced physiological and behavioral maladaptations. Pain 2024:00006396-990000000-00648. [PMID: 38985454 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Preclinical and clinical work has demonstrated altered plasticity and activity in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) under chronic pain states, highlighting critical therapeutic avenues for the management of chronic pain conditions. In this study, we demonstrate that myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C), a master regulator of neuronal activity and plasticity, is repressed in NAc neurons after prolonged spared nerve injury (SNI). Viral-mediated overexpression of Mef2c in NAc neurons partially ameliorated sensory hypersensitivity and emotional behaviors in mice with SNI, while also altering transcriptional pathways associated with synaptic signaling. Mef2c overexpression also reversed SNI-induced potentiation of phasic dopamine release and neuronal hyperexcitability in the NAc. Transcriptional changes induced by Mef2c overexpression were different than those observed after desipramine treatment, suggesting a mechanism of action different from antidepressants. Overall, we show that interventions in MEF2C-regulated mechanisms in the NAc are sufficient to disrupt the maintenance of chronic pain states, providing potential new treatment avenues for neuropathic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Randal A Serafini
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Biophysics, Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine at Boston University, Boston, MA, United states
| | - Zahra Farzinpour
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Biophysics, Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine at Boston University, Boston, MA, United states
| | - Vishwendra Patel
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Abigail M Kelley
- Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, NY, United states
| | - Molly Estill
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Kerri D Pryce
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Farhana Sakloth
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Collin D Teague
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Angelica Torres-Berrio
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Li Shen
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Schahram Akbarian
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Anushree N Karkhanis
- Department of Psychology, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, NY, United states
| | - Robert D Blitzer
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United states
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, & Biophysics, Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine at Boston University, Boston, MA, United states
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Avila-Zozaya M, Zachariou V. Genetic mouse models in opioid research: current status and future directions. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:491-494. [PMID: 38436758 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-024-02762-6] [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: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids are prescribed for the management of severe pain conditions, but their long-term use is often leading to physical dependence and addiction disorders. Understanding the complex neurobiology of the opioid system in preclinical models will be essential for the development of safe and efficacious analgesics. With rising numbers of synthetic opioid users and overdose cases, a better understanding of the neuroanatomical and cellular pathways associated with physical dependence and addiction is expected to guide treatment approaches for opioid use disorders. In this commentary, we highlight the importance of advanced genetic mouse models for studying the regional effects of opioid receptors, and we discuss the need of genetic mouse models for the investigation of the regional, circuit and cell compartment-specific role of intracellular mediators of opioid actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monserrat Avila-Zozaya
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mitsi V, Ruiz A, Polizu C, Farzinpour Z, Ramakrishnan A, Serafini RA, Parise EM, Floodstrand M, Sial OK, Gaspari S, Tang CY, Nestler EJ, Schmidt EF, Shen L, Zachariou V. RGS4 Actions in Mouse Prefrontal Cortex Modulate Behavioral and Transcriptomic Responses to Chronic Stress and Ketamine. Mol Pharmacol 2024; 105:272-285. [PMID: 38351270 PMCID: PMC10949159 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.123.000753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The signal transduction protein, regulator of G protein signaling 4 (RGS4), plays a prominent role in physiologic and pharmacological responses by controlling multiple intracellular pathways. Our earlier work identified the dynamic but distinct roles of RGS4 in the efficacy of monoamine-targeting versus fast-acting antidepressants. Using a modified chronic variable stress (CVS) paradigm in mice, we demonstrate that stress-induced behavioral abnormalities are associated with the downregulation of RGS4 in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Knockout of RGS4 (RGS4KO) increases susceptibility to CVS, as mutant mice develop behavioral abnormalities as early as 2 weeks after CVS resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging I (rs-fMRI) experiments indicate that stress susceptibility in RGS4KO mice is associated with changes in connectivity between the mediodorsal thalamus (MD-THL) and the mPFC. Notably, RGS4KO also paradoxically enhances the antidepressant efficacy of ketamine in the CVS paradigm. RNA-sequencing analysis of naive and CVS samples obtained from mPFC reveals that RGS4KO triggers unique gene expression signatures and affects several intracellular pathways associated with human major depressive disorder. Our analysis suggests that ketamine treatment in the RGS4KO group triggers changes in pathways implicated in synaptic activity and responses to stress, including pathways associated with axonal guidance and myelination. Overall, we show that reducing RGS4 activity triggers unique gene expression adaptations that contribute to chronic stress disorders and that RGS4 is a negative modulator of ketamine actions. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Chronic stress promotes robust maladaptation in the brain, but the exact intracellular pathways contributing to stress vulnerability and mood disorders have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, the authors used murine models of chronic stress and multiple methodologies to demonstrate the critical role of the signal transduction modulator regulator of G protein signaling 4 in the medial prefrontal cortex in vulnerability to chronic stress and the efficacy of the fast-acting antidepressant ketamine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Mitsi
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Anne Ruiz
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Claire Polizu
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Zahra Farzinpour
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Aarthi Ramakrishnan
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Randal A Serafini
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Eric M Parise
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Madeline Floodstrand
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Omar K Sial
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Sevasti Gaspari
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Cheuk Y Tang
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Eric F Schmidt
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Li Shen
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute (V.M., A.Ru., C.P., A.Ra., R.A.S., E.M.P. M.F., S.G., E.J.N., L.S.) and BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute (C.Y.T.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; University of Crete, Department of Basic Sciences, Crete, Greece (V.M.); Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (Z.F., R.A.S., V.Z.); Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (O.K.S.); and Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York (E.F.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Falconnier C, Caparros-Roissard A, Decraene C, Lutz PE. Functional genomic mechanisms of opioid action and opioid use disorder: a systematic review of animal models and human studies. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4568-4584. [PMID: 37723284 PMCID: PMC10914629 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02238-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
In the past two decades, over-prescription of opioids for pain management has driven a steep increase in opioid use disorder (OUD) and death by overdose, exerting a dramatic toll on western countries. OUD is a chronic relapsing disease associated with a lifetime struggle to control drug consumption, suggesting that opioids trigger long-lasting brain adaptations, notably through functional genomic and epigenomic mechanisms. Current understanding of these processes, however, remain scarce, and have not been previously reviewed systematically. To do so, the goal of the present work was to synthesize current knowledge on genome-wide transcriptomic and epigenetic mechanisms of opioid action, in primate and rodent species. Using a prospectively registered methodology, comprehensive literature searches were completed in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Of the 2709 articles identified, 73 met our inclusion criteria and were considered for qualitative analysis. Focusing on the 5 most studied nervous system structures (nucleus accumbens, frontal cortex, whole striatum, dorsal striatum, spinal cord; 44 articles), we also conducted a quantitative analysis of differentially expressed genes, in an effort to identify a putative core transcriptional signature of opioids. Only one gene, Cdkn1a, was consistently identified in eleven studies, and globally, our results unveil surprisingly low consistency across published work, even when considering most recent single-cell approaches. Analysis of sources of variability detected significant contributions from species, brain structure, duration of opioid exposure, strain, time-point of analysis, and batch effects, but not type of opioid. To go beyond those limitations, we leveraged threshold-free methods to illustrate how genome-wide comparisons may generate new findings and hypotheses. Finally, we discuss current methodological development in the field, and their implication for future research and, ultimately, better care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Falconnier
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Alba Caparros-Roissard
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Charles Decraene
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptatives UMR 7364, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Pierre-Eric Lutz
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives UPR 3212, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Serafini RA, Estill M, Pekarskaya EA, Sakloth F, Shen L, Javitch JA, Zachariou V. Tianeptine promotes lasting antiallodynic effects in a mouse model of neuropathic pain. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:1680-1689. [PMID: 37474762 PMCID: PMC10517169 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01645-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), such as desipramine (DMI), are effective at managing neuropathic pain symptoms but often take several weeks to become effective and also lead to considerable side effects. Tianeptine (TIAN) is an atypical antidepressant that activates the mu-opioid receptor but does not produce analgesic tolerance or withdrawal in mice, nor euphoria in humans, at clinically-relevant doses. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of TIAN at persistently alleviating mechanical allodynia in the spared nerve injury (SNI) model of neuropathic pain, even well after drug clearance. After finding an accelerated onset of antiallodynic action compared to DMI, we used genetically modified mice to gain insight into RGS protein-associated pathways that modulate the efficacy of TIAN relative to DMI in models of neuropathic pain. Because we observed similar behavioral responses to both TIAN and DMI treatment in RGS4, RGSz1, and RGS9 knockout mice, we performed RNA sequencing on the NAc of TIAN- and DMI-treated mice after prolonged SNI to further clarify potential mechanisms underlying TIANs faster therapeutic actions. Our bioinformatic analysis revealed distinct transcriptomic signatures between the two drugs, with TIAN more directly reversing SNI-induced differentially expressed genes, and further predicted several upstream regulators that may be implicated in onset of action. This new understanding of the molecular pathways underlying TIAN action may enable the development of novel and more efficacious pharmacological approaches for the management of neuropathic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Randal A Serafini
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Biophysics, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine at Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Molly Estill
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Pekarskaya
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Farhana Sakloth
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Li Shen
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan A Javitch
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Biophysics, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine at Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pryce KD, Serafini RA, Ramakrishnan A, Nicolais A, Giosan IM, Polizu C, Torres-Berrío A, Vuppala S, Kronman H, Ruiz A, Gaspari S, Peña CJ, Sakloth F, Mitsi V, van Duzer J, Mazitschek R, Jarpe M, Shen L, Nestler EJ, Zachariou V. Oxycodone withdrawal induces HDAC1/HDAC2-dependent transcriptional maladaptations in the reward pathway in a mouse model of peripheral nerve injury. Nat Neurosci 2023; 26:1229-1244. [PMID: 37291337 PMCID: PMC10752505 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-023-01350-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The development of physical dependence and addiction disorders due to misuse of opioid analgesics is a major concern with pain therapeutics. We developed a mouse model of oxycodone exposure and subsequent withdrawal in the presence or absence of chronic neuropathic pain. Oxycodone withdrawal alone triggered robust gene expression adaptations in the nucleus accumbens, medial prefrontal cortex and ventral tegmental area, with numerous genes and pathways selectively affected by oxycodone withdrawal in mice with peripheral nerve injury. Pathway analysis predicted that histone deacetylase (HDAC) 1 is a top upstream regulator in opioid withdrawal in nucleus accumbens and medial prefrontal cortex. The novel HDAC1/HDAC2 inhibitor, Regenacy Brain Class I HDAC Inhibitor (RBC1HI), attenuated behavioral manifestations of oxycodone withdrawal, especially in mice with neuropathic pain. These findings suggest that inhibition of HDAC1/HDAC2 may provide an avenue for patients with chronic pain who are dependent on opioids to transition to non-opioid analgesics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerri D Pryce
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Randal A Serafini
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aarthi Ramakrishnan
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew Nicolais
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ilinca M Giosan
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Claire Polizu
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Angélica Torres-Berrío
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sreeya Vuppala
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hope Kronman
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anne Ruiz
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sevasti Gaspari
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Farhana Sakloth
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vasiliki Mitsi
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Ralph Mazitschek
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Li Shen
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
- Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sakloth F, Sanchez-Reyes OB, Ruiz A, Nicolais A, Serafini RA, Pryce KD, Bertherat F, Torres-Berrío A, Gomes I, Devi LA, Wacker D, Zachariou V. A Regional and Projection-Specific Role of RGSz1 in the Ventrolateral Periaqueductal Grey in the Modulation of Morphine Reward. Mol Pharmacol 2023; 103:1-8. [PMID: 36310031 PMCID: PMC11033942 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.122.000528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioid analgesics exert their therapeutic and adverse effects by activating μ opioid receptors (MOPR); however, functional responses to MOPR activation are modulated by distinct signal transduction complexes within the brain. The ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) plays a critical role in modulation of nociception and analgesia, but the exact intracellular pathways associated with opioid responses in this region are not fully understood. We previously showed that knockout of the signal transduction modulator Regulator of G protein Signaling z1 (RGSz1) enhanced analgesic responses to opioids, whereas it decreased the rewarding efficacy of morphine. Here, we applied viral mediated gene transfer methodology and delivered adeno-associated virus (AAV) expressing Cre recombinase to the vlPAG of RGSz1fl\fl mice to demonstrate that downregulation of RGSz1 in this region decreases sensitivity to morphine in the place preference paradigm, under pain-free as well as neuropathic pain states. We also used retrograde viral vectors along with flippase-dependent Cre vectors to conditionally downregulate RGSz1 in vlPAG projections to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and show that downregulation of RGSz1 prevents the development of place conditioning to low morphine doses. Consistent with the role for RGSz1 as a negative modulator of MOPR activity, RGSz1KO enhances opioid-induced cAMP inhibition in periaqueductal gray (PAG) membranes. Furthermore, using a new generation of bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) sensors, we demonstrate that RGSz1 modulates Gαz but not other Gαi family subunits and selectively impedes MOPR-mediated Gαz signaling events invoked by morphine and other opioids. Our work highlights a regional and circuit-specific role of the G protein-signaling modulator RGSz1 in morphine reward, providing insights on midbrain intracellular pathways that control addiction-related behaviors. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study used advanced genetic mouse models to highlight the role of the signal transduction modulator named RGSz1 in responses to clinically used opioid analgesics. We show that RGSz1 controls the rewarding efficacy of opioids by actions in ventrolateral periaqueductal gray projections to the ventral tegmental area, a key component of the midbrain dopamine pathway. These studies highlight novel mechanisms by which pain-modulating structures control the rewarding efficacy of opioids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Sakloth
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Omar B Sanchez-Reyes
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Anne Ruiz
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Andrew Nicolais
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Randal A Serafini
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Kerri D Pryce
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Feodora Bertherat
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Angélica Torres-Berrío
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Ivone Gomes
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Lakshmi A Devi
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Daniel Wacker
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., A.R., A.N., R.A.S., K.D.P., F.B., A.T.-B., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York (O.B.S.R., I.G., L.A.D., D.W., V.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Insights into the Promising Prospect of G Protein and GPCR-Mediated Signaling in Neuropathophysiology and Its Therapeutic Regulation. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:8425640. [PMID: 36187336 PMCID: PMC9519337 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8425640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are intricately involved in the conversion of extracellular feedback to intracellular responses. These specialized receptors possess a crucial role in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Most nonsensory GPCRs are active in almost 90% of complex brain functions. At the time of receptor phosphorylation, a GPCR pathway is essentially activated through a G protein signaling mechanism via a G protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRK). Dopamine, an important neurotransmitter, is primarily involved in the pathophysiology of several CNS disorders; for instance, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and ADHD. Since dopamine, acetylcholine, and glutamate are potent neuropharmacological targets, dopamine itself has potential therapeutic effects in several CNS disorders. GPCRs essentially regulate brain functions by modulating downstream signaling pathways. GPR6, GPR52, and GPR8 are termed orphan GPCRs because they colocalize with dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in neurons of the basal ganglia, either alone or with both receptors. Among the orphan GPCRs, the GPR52 is recognized for being an effective psychiatric receptor. Various antipsychotics like aripiprazole and quetiapine mainly target GPCRs to exert their actions. One of the most important parts of signal transduction is the regulation of G protein signaling (RGS). These substances inhibit the activation of the G protein that initiates GPCR signaling. Developing a combination of RGS inhibitors with GPCR agonists may prove to have promising therapeutic potential. Indeed, several recent studies have suggested that GPCRs represent potentially valuable therapeutic targets for various psychiatric disorders. Molecular biology and genetically modified animal model studies recommend that these enriched GPCRs may also act as potential therapeutic psychoreceptors. Neurotransmitter and neuropeptide GPCR malfunction in the frontal cortex and limbic-related regions, including the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and brainstem, is likely responsible for the complex clinical picture that includes cognitive, perceptual, emotional, and motor symptoms. G protein and GPCR-mediated signaling play a critical role in developing new treatment options for mental health issues, and this study is aimed at offering a thorough picture of that involvement. For patients who are resistant to current therapies, the development of new drugs that target GPCR signaling cascades remains an interesting possibility. These discoveries might serve as a fresh foundation for the creation of creative methods for pharmacologically useful modulation of GPCR function.
Collapse
|
9
|
McPherson KB, Ingram SL. Cellular and circuit diversity determines the impact of endogenous opioids in the descending pain modulatory pathway. Front Syst Neurosci 2022; 16:963812. [PMID: 36045708 PMCID: PMC9421147 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.963812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The descending pain modulatory pathway exerts important bidirectional control of nociceptive inputs to dampen and/or facilitate the perception of pain. The ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) integrates inputs from many regions associated with the processing of nociceptive, cognitive, and affective components of pain perception, and is a key brain area for opioid action. Opioid receptors are expressed on a subset of vlPAG neurons, as well as on both GABAergic and glutamatergic presynaptic terminals that impinge on vlPAG neurons. Microinjection of opioids into the vlPAG produces analgesia and microinjection of the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone blocks stimulation-mediated analgesia, highlighting the role of endogenous opioid release within this region in the modulation of nociception. Endogenous opioid effects within the vlPAG are complex and likely dependent on specific neuronal circuits activated by acute and chronic pain stimuli. This review is focused on the cellular heterogeneity within vlPAG circuits and highlights gaps in our understanding of endogenous opioid regulation of the descending pain modulatory circuits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kylie B. McPherson
- Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy,Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Susan L. Ingram
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States,*Correspondence: Susan L. Ingram
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Shen M, Li T, Feng Y, Chen Z, Dou T, Wu P, Wang K, Lu J, Qu L. Exploring the expression and preliminary function of chicken regulator of G protein signalling 3 ( RGS3) gene in follicular development. Br Poult Sci 2022; 63:613-620. [PMID: 35522181 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2022.2071597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
1. The following study explored the expression and preliminary function of RGS3. The spatial and temporal expression patterns of the RGS3 gene were analysed in the ovarian stroma of Shendan No. 6 Green shell hens and Hy-line Brown hens at four time points (6, 28, 40 and 52 weeks old), as well as in various organs and follicles of Hy-line Brown hens.2. Based on the genomic and protein sequences of RGS3 in NCBI database, phylogenetic trees were constructed using MEGA-X. The protein interaction network was analysed using STRING. According to the results of protein-protein interaction network and pathways, the mRNA expression levels of RGS3 and three interaction proteins were explored by qRT-PCR in vitro.3. Spatio-temporal expression data revealed that RGS3 mRNA was expressed in all the organs tested, being highest in the hypothalamus. In different follicles, RGS3 mRNA was highly expressed in post-ovulatory follicles, followed by ovarian stroma and large white follicles. The expression levels of RGS3 mRNA in the ovarian stroma were significantly higher in Shendan No. 6 Green shell hens than that in the Hy-line Brown hens at all egg-laying stages.4. The phylogenetic tree results showed that ducks, geese and chickens had higher homology based on the genomic and protein sequence of RGS3. Moreover, chicken RGS3 interacted with GSK3B, RAF1 and BRAF based on STRING prediction. In vitro follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) treatment showed that mRNA expression levels of RGS3 and those of its predicted interacting proteins BRAF and GSK3B decreased with increasing FSH concentration. The results suggested that RGS3 responds to FSH and may play an important role in the regulation follicular development in chicken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manman Shen
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 225108, China.,Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, 225125, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Animal genetic Breeding and Molecular Design, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Tao Li
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 225108, China
| | - Yuan Feng
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 225108, China
| | - Zikang Chen
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 225108, China
| | - Taocun Dou
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, 225125, China
| | - Ping Wu
- College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 225108, China
| | - Kehua Wang
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, 225125, China
| | - Jian Lu
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, 225125, China
| | - Liang Qu
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, 225125, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pryce KD, Kang HJ, Sakloth F, Liu Y, Khan S, Toth K, Kapoor A, Nicolais A, Che T, Qin L, Bertherat F, Kaniskan HÜ, Jin J, Cameron MD, Roth BL, Zachariou V, Filizola M. A promising chemical series of positive allosteric modulators of the μ-opioid receptor that enhance the antinociceptive efficacy of opioids but not their adverse effects. Neuropharmacology 2021; 195:108673. [PMID: 34153316 PMCID: PMC8410669 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) of the μ-opioid receptor (MOR) have been proposed to exhibit therapeutic potential by maximizing the analgesic properties of clinically used opioid drugs while limiting their adverse effects or risk of overdose as a result of using lower drug doses. We herein report in vitro and in vivo characterization of two small molecules from a chemical series of MOR PAMs that exhibit: (i) MOR PAM activity and receptor subtype selectivity in vitro, (ii) a differential potentiation of the antinociceptive effect of oxycodone, morphine, and methadone in mouse models of pain that roughly correlates with in vitro activity, and (iii) a lack of potentiation of adverse effects associated with opioid administration, such as somatic withdrawal, respiratory depression, and analgesic tolerance. This series of MOR PAMs holds promise for the development of adjuncts to opioid therapy to mitigate against overdose and opioid use disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerri D Pryce
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Hye Jin Kang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Farhana Sakloth
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Yongfeng Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Susan Khan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, 33458, USA
| | - Katalin Toth
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, 33458, USA
| | - Abhijeet Kapoor
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Andrew Nicolais
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Tao Che
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Lihuai Qin
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA; Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Feodora Bertherat
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - H Ümit Kaniskan
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA; Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jian Jin
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA; Mount Sinai Center for Therapeutics Discovery, Department of Oncological Sciences, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Michael D Cameron
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, 33458, USA
| | - Bryan L Roth
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Marta Filizola
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bouchet CA, McPherson KB, Li MH, Traynor JR, Ingram SL. Mice Expressing Regulators of G protein Signaling-insensitive Gαo Define Roles of μ Opioid Receptor G αo and G αi Subunit Coupling in Inhibition of Presynaptic GABA Release. Mol Pharmacol 2021; 100:217-223. [PMID: 34135098 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.121.000249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins modulate signaling by G protein-coupled receptors. Using a knock-in transgenic mouse model with a mutation in Gαo that does not bind RGS proteins (RGS-insensitive), we determined the effect of RGS proteins on presynaptic μ opioid receptor (MOR)-mediated inhibition of GABA release in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG). The MOR agonists [d-Ala2, N-MePhe4, Gly-ol]-enkephalin (DAMGO) and met-enkephalin (ME) inhibited evoked inhibitory postsynaptic currents (eIPSCs) in the RGS-insensitive mice compared with wild-type (WT) littermates, respectively. Fentanyl inhibited eIPSCs similarly in both WT and RGS-insensitive mice. There were no differences in opioid agonist inhibition of spontaneous GABA release between the genotypes. To further probe the mechanism underlying these differences between opioid inhibition of evoked and spontaneous GABA release, specific myristoylated Gα peptide inhibitors for Gαo1 and Gαi1-3 that block receptor-G protein interactions were used to test the preference of agonists for MOR-Gα complexes. The Gαo1 inhibitor reduced DAMGO inhibition of eIPSCs, but Gαi1-3 inhibitors had no effect. Both Gαo1 and Gαi1-3 inhibitors separately reduced fentanyl inhibition of eIPSCs but had no effects on ME inhibition. Gαi1-3 inhibitors blocked the inhibitory effects of ME and fentanyl on miniature postsynaptic current (mIPSC) frequency, but both Gαo1 and Gαi1-3 inhibitors were needed to block the effects of DAMGO. Finally, baclofen-mediated inhibition of GABA release is unaffected in the RGS-insensitive mice and in the presence of Gαo1 and Gαi1-3 inhibitor peptides, suggesting that GABAB receptor coupling to G proteins in vlPAG presynaptic terminals is different than MOR coupling. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Presynaptic μ opioid receptors (MORs) in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray are critical for opioid analgesia and are negatively regulated by RGS proteins. These data in RGS-insensitive mice provide evidence that MOR agonists differ in preference for Gαo versus Gαi and regulation by RGS proteins in presynaptic terminals, providing a mechanism for functional selectivity between agonists. The results further define important differences in MOR and GABAB receptor coupling to G proteins that could be exploited for new pain therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney A Bouchet
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (C.A.B., K.B.M., M.L., S.L.I.); and Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, Medical School, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan (J.R.T.)
| | - Kylie B McPherson
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (C.A.B., K.B.M., M.L., S.L.I.); and Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, Medical School, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan (J.R.T.)
| | - Ming-Hua Li
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (C.A.B., K.B.M., M.L., S.L.I.); and Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, Medical School, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan (J.R.T.)
| | - John R Traynor
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (C.A.B., K.B.M., M.L., S.L.I.); and Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, Medical School, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan (J.R.T.)
| | - Susan L Ingram
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon (C.A.B., K.B.M., M.L., S.L.I.); and Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, Medical School, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan (J.R.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Obeng S, Hiranita T, León F, McMahon LR, McCurdy CR. Novel Approaches, Drug Candidates, and Targets in Pain Drug Discovery. J Med Chem 2021; 64:6523-6548. [PMID: 33956427 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Because of the problems associated with opioids, drug discovery efforts have been employed to develop opioids with reduced side effects using approaches such as biased opioid agonism, multifunctional opioids, and allosteric modulation of opioid receptors. Receptor targets such as adrenergic, cannabinoid, P2X3 and P2X7, NMDA, serotonin, and sigma, as well as ion channels like the voltage-gated sodium channels Nav1.7 and Nav1.8 have been targeted to develop novel analgesics. Several enzymes, such as soluble epoxide hydrolase, sepiapterin reductase, and MAGL/FAAH, have also been targeted to develop novel analgesics. In this review, old and recent targets involved in pain signaling and compounds acting at these targets are summarized. In addition, strategies employed to reduce side effects, increase potency, and efficacy of opioids are also elaborated. This review should aid in propelling drug discovery efforts to discover novel analgesics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Obeng
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States.,Department Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Takato Hiranita
- Department Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Francisco León
- Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia 29208, United States
| | - Lance R McMahon
- Department Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Christopher R McCurdy
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States.,Translational Drug Development Core, Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Masuho I, Balaji S, Muntean BS, Skamangas NK, Chavali S, Tesmer JJG, Babu MM, Martemyanov KA. A Global Map of G Protein Signaling Regulation by RGS Proteins. Cell 2020; 183:503-521.e19. [PMID: 33007266 PMCID: PMC7572916 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.08.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The control over the extent and timing of G protein signaling is provided by the regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins that deactivate G protein α subunits (Gα). Mammalian genomes encode 20 canonical RGS and 16 Gα genes with key roles in physiology and disease. To understand the principles governing the selectivity of Gα regulation by RGS, we examine the catalytic activity of all canonical human RGS proteins and their selectivity for a complete set of Gα substrates using real-time kinetic measurements in living cells. The data reveal rules governing RGS-Gα recognition, the structural basis of its selectivity, and provide principles for engineering RGS proteins with defined selectivity. The study also explores the evolution of RGS-Gα selectivity through ancestral reconstruction and demonstrates how naturally occurring non-synonymous variants in RGS alter signaling. These results provide a blueprint for decoding signaling selectivity and advance our understanding of molecular recognition principles. Systematic analysis reveals G protein selectivity of all canonical RGS proteins RGS proteins rely on selectivity bar codes for selective G protein recognition Transplantation of bar codes across RGS proteins switches their G protein preferences Natural variants, mutations, and evolution shape RGS selectivity
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ikuo Masuho
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Santhanam Balaji
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK; Departments of Structural Biology and Center for Data Driven Discovery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Brian S Muntean
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Nickolas K Skamangas
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Sreenivas Chavali
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK; Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati, Karakambadi Road, Tirupati 517 507, India
| | - John J G Tesmer
- Departments of Biological Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054, USA
| | - M Madan Babu
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK; Departments of Structural Biology and Center for Data Driven Discovery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Kirill A Martemyanov
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
This paper is the forty-first consecutive installment of the annual anthological review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, summarizing articles published during 2018 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides and receptors as well as effects of opioid/opiate agonists and antagonists. The review is subdivided into the following specific topics: molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors (2), the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia in animals (3) and humans (4), opioid-sensitive and opioid-insensitive effects of nonopioid analgesics (5), opioid peptide and receptor involvement in tolerance and dependence (6), stress and social status (7), learning and memory (8), eating and drinking (9), drug abuse and alcohol (10), sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (11), mental illness and mood (12), seizures and neurologic disorders (13), electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (14), general activity and locomotion (15), gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (16), cardiovascular responses (17), respiration and thermoregulation (18), and immunological responses (19).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY, 11367, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Interruption of continuous opioid exposure exacerbates drug-evoked adaptations in the mesolimbic dopamine system. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:1781-1792. [PMID: 32079024 PMCID: PMC7608117 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0643-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Drug-evoked adaptations in the mesolimbic dopamine system are postulated to drive opioid abuse and addiction. These adaptations vary in magnitude and direction following different patterns of opioid exposure, but few studies have systematically manipulated the pattern of opioid administration while measuring neurobiological and behavioral impact. We exposed male and female mice to morphine for one week, with administration patterns that were either intermittent (daily injections) or continuous (osmotic minipump infusion). We then interrupted continuous morphine exposure with either naloxone-precipitated or spontaneous withdrawal. Continuous morphine exposure caused tolerance to the psychomotor-activating effects of morphine, whereas both intermittent and interrupted morphine exposure caused long-lasting psychomotor sensitization. Given links between locomotor sensitization and mesolimbic dopamine signaling, we used fiber photometry and a genetically encoded dopamine sensor to conduct longitudinal measurements of dopamine dynamics in the nucleus accumbens. Locomotor sensitization caused by interrupted morphine exposure was accompanied by enhanced dopamine signaling in the nucleus accumbens. To further assess downstream consequences on striatal gene expression, we used next-generation RNA sequencing to perform genome-wide transcriptional profiling in the nucleus accumbens and dorsal striatum. The interruption of continuous morphine exposure exacerbated drug-evoked transcriptional changes in both nucleus accumbens and dorsal striatum, dramatically increasing differential gene expression and engaging unique signaling pathways. Our study indicates that opioid-evoked adaptations in brain function and behavior are critically dependent on the pattern of drug administration, and exacerbated by interruption of continuous exposure. Maintaining continuity of chronic opioid administration may, therefore, represent a strategy to minimize iatrogenic effects on brain reward circuits.
Collapse
|
17
|
Sakloth F, Manouras L, Avrampou K, Mitsi V, Serafini RA, Pryce KD, Cogliani V, Berton O, Jarpe M, Zachariou V. HDAC6-selective inhibitors decrease nerve-injury and inflammation-associated mechanical hypersensitivity in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:2139-2149. [PMID: 32388618 PMCID: PMC7470631 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05525-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HDAC6 is a class IIB histone deacetylase expressed at many levels of the nociceptive pathway. This study tested the ability of novel and selective HDAC6 inhibitors to alleviate sensory hypersensitivity behaviors in mouse models of peripheral nerve injury and peripheral inflammation. METHODS We utilized the murine spared nerve injury (SNI) model for peripheral nerve injury and the Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) model of peripheral inflammation. We applied the Von Frey assay to monitor mechanical allodynia. RESULTS Using the SNI model, we demonstrate that daily administration of the brain-penetrant HDAC6 inhibitor, ACY-738, abolishes mechanical allodynia in male and in female mice. Importantly, there is no tolerance to the antiallodynic actions of these compounds as they produce a consistent increase in Von Frey thresholds for several weeks. We observed a similar antiallodynic effect when utilizing the HDAC6 inhibitor, ACY-257, which shows limited brain expression when administered systemically. We also demonstrate that ACY-738 and ACY-257 attenuate mechanical allodynia in the CFA model of peripheral inflammation. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings suggest that inhibition of HDAC6 provides a promising therapeutic avenue for the alleviation of mechanical allodynia associated with peripheral nerve injury and peripheral inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Sakloth
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Lefteris Manouras
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Kleopatra Avrampou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Vasiliki Mitsi
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Randal A Serafini
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Kerri D Pryce
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Valeria Cogliani
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Olivier Berton
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Division of Neuroscience & Behavior, National institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 6001 Executive Blvd, Rm 4289, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Matthew Jarpe
- Regenacy Pharmaceuticals, 303 Wyman St, Suite 300, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, Box 10-65, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sakloth F, Polizu C, Bertherat F, Zachariou V. Regulators of G Protein Signaling in Analgesia and Addiction. Mol Pharmacol 2020; 98:739-750. [PMID: 32474445 DOI: 10.1124/mol.119.119206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins are multifunctional proteins expressed in peripheral and neuronal cells, playing critical roles in development, physiologic processes, and pharmacological responses. RGS proteins primarily act as GTPase accelerators for activated Gα subunits of G-protein coupled receptors, but they may also modulate signal transduction by several other mechanisms. Over the last two decades, preclinical work identified members of the RGS family with unique and critical roles in intracellular responses to drugs of abuse. New information has emerged on the mechanisms by which RGS proteins modulate the efficacy of opioid analgesics in a brain region- and agonist-selective fashion. There has also been progress in the understanding of the protein complexes and signal transduction pathways regulated by RGS proteins in addiction and analgesia circuits. In this review, we summarize findings on the mechanisms by which RGS proteins modulate functional responses to opioids in models of analgesia and addiction. We also discuss reports on the regulation and function of RGS proteins in models of psychostimulant addiction. Using information from preclinical studies performed over the last 20 years, we highlight the diverse mechanisms by which RGS protein complexes control plasticity in response to opioid and psychostimulant drug exposure; we further discuss how the understanding of these pathways may lead to new opportunities for therapeutic interventions in G protein pathways. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins are signal transduction modulators, expressed widely in various tissues, including brain regions mediating addiction and analgesia. Evidence from preclinical work suggests that members of the RGS family act by unique mechanisms in specific brain regions to control drug-induced plasticity. This review highlights interesting findings on the regulation and function of RGS proteins in models of analgesia and addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Sakloth
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., C.P., F.B., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences (V.Z.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Claire Polizu
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., C.P., F.B., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences (V.Z.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Feodora Bertherat
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., C.P., F.B., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences (V.Z.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Venetia Zachariou
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, and Friedman Brain Institute (F.S., C.P., F.B., V.Z.) and Department of Pharmacological Sciences (V.Z.), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Senese NB, Kandasamy R, Kochan KE, Traynor JR. Regulator of G-Protein Signaling (RGS) Protein Modulation of Opioid Receptor Signaling as a Potential Target for Pain Management. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:5. [PMID: 32038168 PMCID: PMC6992652 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid drugs are the gold standard for the management of pain, but their use is severely limited by dangerous and unpleasant side effects. All clinically available opioid analgesics bind to and activate the mu-opioid receptor (MOR), a heterotrimeric G-protein-coupled receptor, to produce analgesia. The activity of these receptors is modulated by a family of intracellular RGS proteins or regulators of G-protein signaling proteins, characterized by the presence of a conserved RGS Homology (RH) domain. These proteins act as negative regulators of G-protein signaling by serving as GTPase accelerating proteins or GAPS to switch off signaling by both the Gα and βγ subunits of heterotrimeric G-proteins. Consequently, knockdown or knockout of RGS protein activity enhances signaling downstream of MOR. In this review we discuss current knowledge of how this activity, across the different families of RGS proteins, modulates MOR activity, as well as activity of other members of the opioid receptor family, and so pain and analgesia in animal models, with particular emphasis on RGS4 and RGS9 families. We discuss inhibition of RGS proteins with small molecule inhibitors that bind to sensitive cysteine moieties in the RH domain and the potential for targeting this family of intracellular proteins as adjuncts to provide an opioid sparing effect or as standalone analgesics by promoting the activity of endogenous opioid peptides. Overall, we conclude that RGS proteins may be a novel drug target to provide analgesia with reduced opioid-like side effects, but that much basic work is needed to define the roles for specific RGS proteins, particularly in chronic pain, as well as a need to develop newer inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas B Senese
- Department of Pharmacology, Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ram Kandasamy
- Department of Pharmacology, Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Psychology, California State University, East Bay, Hayward, CA, United States
| | - Kelsey E Kochan
- Department of Pharmacology, Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - John R Traynor
- Department of Pharmacology, Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
O'Brien JB, Wilkinson JC, Roman DL. Regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins as drug targets: Progress and future potentials. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:18571-18585. [PMID: 31636120 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev119.007060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play critical roles in regulating processes such as cellular homeostasis, responses to stimuli, and cell signaling. Accordingly, GPCRs have long served as extraordinarily successful drug targets. It is therefore not surprising that the discovery in the mid-1990s of a family of proteins that regulate processes downstream of GPCRs generated great excitement in the field. This finding enhanced the understanding of these critical signaling pathways and provided potentially new targets for pharmacological intervention. These regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins were viewed by many as nodes downstream of GPCRs that could be targeted with small molecules to tune signaling processes. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the discovery of RGS proteins and of the gradual and continuing discovery of their roles in disease states, focusing particularly on cancer and neurological disorders. We also discuss high-throughput screening efforts that have led to the discovery first of peptide-based and then of small-molecule inhibitors targeting a subset of the RGS proteins. We explore the unique mechanisms of RGS inhibition these chemical tools have revealed and highlight the most up-to-date studies using these tools in animal experiments. Finally, we discuss the future opportunities in the field, as there are clearly more avenues left to be explored and potentials to be realized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B O'Brien
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Joshua C Wilkinson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - David L Roman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Iowa City, Iowa 52242; Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa 52242.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Coussens NP, Sittampalam GS, Jonson SG, Hall MD, Gorby HE, Tamiz AP, McManus OB, Felder CC, Rasmussen K. The Opioid Crisis and the Future of Addiction and Pain Therapeutics. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 371:396-408. [PMID: 31481516 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.259408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid misuse and addiction are a public health crisis resulting in debilitation, deaths, and significant social and economic impact. Curbing this crisis requires collaboration among academic, government, and industrial partners toward the development of effective nonaddictive pain medications, interventions for opioid overdose, and addiction treatments. A 2-day meeting, The Opioid Crisis and the Future of Addiction and Pain Therapeutics: Opportunities, Tools, and Technologies Symposium, was held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to address these concerns and to chart a collaborative path forward. The meeting was supported by the NIH Helping to End Addiction Long-TermSM (HEAL) Initiative, an aggressive, trans-agency effort to speed scientific solutions to stem the national opioid crisis. The event was unique in bringing together two research disciplines, addiction and pain, in order to create a forum for crosscommunication and collaboration. The output from the symposium will be considered by the HEAL Initiative; this article summarizes the scientific presentations and key takeaways. Improved understanding of the etiology of acute and chronic pain will enable the discovery of novel targets and regulatable pain circuits for safe and effective therapeutics, as well as relevant biomarkers to ensure adequate testing in clinical trials. Applications of improved technologies including reagents, assays, model systems, and validated probe compounds will likely increase the delivery of testable hypotheses and therapeutics to enable better health outcomes for patients. The symposium goals were achieved by increasing interdisciplinary collaboration to accelerate solutions for this pressing public health challenge and provide a framework for focused efforts within the research community. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This article summarizes key messages and discussions resulting from a 2-day symposium focused on challenges and opportunities in developing addiction- and pain-related medications. Speakers and attendees came from 40 states in the United States and 15 countries, bringing perspectives from academia, industry, government, and healthcare by researchers, clinicians, regulatory experts, and patient advocates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan P Coussens
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - G Sitta Sittampalam
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - Samantha G Jonson
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - Matthew D Hall
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - Heather E Gorby
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - Amir P Tamiz
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - Owen B McManus
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - Christian C Felder
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| | - Kurt Rasmussen
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland (N.P.C., G.S.S., S.G.J., M.D.H.); Orvos Communications, LLC (H.E.G.); National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke (A.P.T.) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (K.R.), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Q-State Biosciences, Cambridge, Massachusetts (O.B.M.); and VP Discovery Research, Karuna Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts (C.C.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
RGS4 Maintains Chronic Pain Symptoms in Rodent Models. J Neurosci 2019; 39:8291-8304. [PMID: 31308097 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3154-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulator of G-protein signaling 4 (RGS4) is a potent modulator of G-protein-coupled receptor signal transduction that is expressed throughout the pain matrix. Here, we use genetic mouse models to demonstrate a role of RGS4 in the maintenance of chronic pain states in male and female mice. Using paradigms of peripheral inflammation and nerve injury, we show that the prevention of RGS4 action leads to recovery from mechanical and cold allodynia and increases the motivation for wheel running. Similarly, RGS4KO eliminates the duration of nocifensive behavior in the second phase of the formalin assay. Using the Complete Freud's Adjuvant (CFA) model of hindpaw inflammation we also demonstrate that downregulation of RGS4 in the adult ventral posterolateral thalamic nuclei promotes recovery from mechanical and cold allodynia. RNA sequencing analysis of thalamus (THL) from RGS4WT and RGS4KO mice points to many signal transduction modulators and transcription factors that are uniquely regulated in CFA-treated RGS4WT cohorts. Ingenuity pathway analysis suggests that several components of glutamatergic signaling are differentially affected by CFA treatment between RGS4WT and RGS4KO groups. Notably, Western blot analysis shows increased expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 in THL synaptosomes of RGS4KO mice at time points at which they recover from mechanical allodynia. Overall, our study provides information on a novel intracellular pathway that contributes to the maintenance of chronic pain states and points to RGS4 as a potential therapeutic target.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT There is an imminent need for safe and efficient chronic pain medications. Regulator of G-protein signaling 4 (RGS4) is a multifunctional signal transduction protein, widely expressed in the pain matrix. Here, we demonstrate that RGS4 plays a prominent role in the maintenance of chronic pain symptoms in male and female mice. Using genetically modified mice, we show a dynamic role of RGS4 in recovery from symptoms of sensory hypersensitivity deriving from hindpaw inflammation or hindlimb nerve injury. We also demonstrate an important role of RGS4 actions in gene expression patterns induced by chronic pain states in the mouse thalamus. Our findings provide novel insight into mechanisms associated with the maintenance of chronic pain states and demonstrate that interventions in RGS4 activity promote recovery from sensory hypersensitivity symptoms.
Collapse
|
23
|
Regulators of G-Protein Signaling (RGS) Proteins Promote Receptor Coupling to G-Protein-Coupled Inwardly Rectifying Potassium (GIRK) Channels. J Neurosci 2018; 38:8737-8744. [PMID: 30150362 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0516-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins negatively modulate presynaptic μ-opioid receptor inhibition of GABA release in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG). Paradoxically, we find that G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activation of G-protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ channels (GIRKs) in the vlPAG is reduced in an agonist- and receptor-dependent manner in transgenic knock-in mice of either sex expressing mutant RGS-insensitive Gαo proteins. μ-Opioid receptor agonist activation of GIRK currents was reduced for DAMGO and fentanyl but not for [Met5]-enkephalin acetate salt hydrate (ME) in the RGS-insensitive heterozygous (Het) mice compared with wild-type mice. The GABAB agonist baclofen-induced GIRK currents were also reduced in the Het mice. We confirmed the role of Gαo proteins in μ-opioid receptor and GABAB receptor signaling pathways in wild-type mice using myristoylated peptide inhibitors of Gαo1 and Gαi1-3 The results using these inhibitors indicate that receptor activation of GIRK channels is dependent on the preference of the agonist-stimulated receptor for Gαo versus that for Gαi. DAMGO and fentanyl-mediated GIRK currents were reduced in the presence of the Gαo1 inhibitor, but not the Gαi1-3 inhibitors. In contrast, the Gαo1 peptide inhibitor did not affect ME activation of GIRK currents, which is consistent with results in the Het mice, but the Gαi1-3 inhibitors significantly reduced ME-mediated GIRK currents. Finally, the reduction in GIRK activation in the Het mice plays a role in opioid- and baclofen-mediated spinal antinociception, but not supraspinal antinociception. Thus, our studies indicate that RGS proteins have multiple mechanisms of modulating GPCR signaling that produce negative and positive regulation of signaling depending on the effector.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins positively modulate GPCR coupling to GIRKs, and this coupling is critical for opioid- and baclofen-mediated spinal antinociception, whereas μ-opioid receptor-mediated supraspinal antinociception depends on presynaptic inhibition that is negatively regulated by RGS proteins. The identification of these opposite roles for RGS proteins has implications for signaling via other GPCRs.
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Opioids are the most commonly used and effective analgesic treatments for severe pain, but they have recently come under scrutiny owing to epidemic levels of abuse and overdose. These compounds act on the endogenous opioid system, which comprises four G protein-coupled receptors (mu, delta, kappa, and nociceptin) and four major peptide families (β-endorphin, enkephalins, dynorphins, and nociceptin/orphanin FQ). In this review, we first describe the functional organization and pharmacology of the endogenous opioid system. We then summarize current knowledge on the signaling mechanisms by which opioids regulate neuronal function and neurotransmission. Finally, we discuss the loci of opioid analgesic action along peripheral and central pain pathways, emphasizing the pain-relieving properties of opioids against the affective dimension of the pain experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Corder
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA; .,Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA.,Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA
| | - Daniel C Castro
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA;
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA; .,Division of Basic Research, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.,Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA
| | - Grégory Scherrer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA; .,Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA.,Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA.,New York Stem Cell Foundation - Robertson Investigator, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA
| |
Collapse
|