Inhibition of neuronal nitric-oxide synthase by calcium/ calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIalpha through Ser847 phosphorylation in NG108-15 neuronal cells

Mucopolysaccharide polysulfate increases local skin blood volume through nitric oxide production

BACKGROUND

Mucopolysaccharide polysulfate (MPS) is widely used as an active ingredient in topical preparations for the treatment of asteatosis and blood flow disorders. Although topical MPS products can increase cutaneous blood flow (CBF), the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to elucidate how MPS increases CBF. We investigated the association of nitric oxide (NO), a powerful mediator associated with increased local blood volume, with the blood flow-accelerating action of MPS in mice. In addition, we verified the effects of MPS on NO production in different skin cell types, such as keratinocytes (KCs), endothelial cells (ECs), and dermal fibroblasts (DFs).

METHODS

We used raster-scanning optoacoustic imaging mesoscopy to observe in vivo changes in the skin blood volume. NO production was determined in each cell using an NO indicator. An enzyme-linked immunoassay was used to measure the phosphorylated nitric oxide synthase (NOS) levels in ECs, DFs, and KCs in the presence or absence of MPS.

RESULTS

Topical application of MPS increased the skin blood volume in mice, and this increase was abolished through the addition of NOS inhibitors. MPS promoted the dose-dependent production of NO in various cells, which caused alterations in the phosphorylation state of NOS.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate that MPS promotes an increase in skin blood volume and NO production in various skin cell types. These results suggest that MPS can potentially accelerate CBF through the NO biosynthesis pathway in different skin cell types.

Synaptic homeostasis transiently leverages Hebbian mechanisms for a multiphasic response to inactivity

Homeostatic regulation of synapses is vital for nervous system function and key to understanding a range of neurological conditions. Synaptic homeostasis is proposed to operate over hours to counteract the destabilizing influence of long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). The prevailing view holds that synaptic scaling is a slow first-order process that regulates postsynaptic glutamate receptors and fundamentally differs from LTP or LTD. Surprisingly, we find that the dynamics of scaling induced by neuronal inactivity are not exponential or monotonic, and the mechanism requires calcineurin and CaMKII, molecules dominant in LTD and LTP. Our quantitative model of these enzymes reconstructs the unexpected dynamics of homeostatic scaling and reveals how synapses can efficiently safeguard future capacity for synaptic plasticity. This mechanism of synaptic adaptation supports a broader set of homeostatic changes, including action potential autoregulation, and invites further inquiry into how such a mechanism varies in health and disease.

Health position paper and redox perspectives - Disease burden by transportation noise

Transportation noise is a ubiquitous urban exposure. In 2018, the World Health Organization concluded that chronic exposure to road traffic noise is a risk factor for ischemic heart disease. In contrast, they concluded that the quality of evidence for a link to other diseases was very low to moderate. Since then, several studies on the impact of noise on various diseases have been published. Also, studies investigating the mechanistic pathways underlying noise-induced health effects are emerging. We review the current evidence regarding effects of noise on health and the related disease-mechanisms. Several high-quality cohort studies consistently found road traffic noise to be associated with a higher risk of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, diabetes, and all-cause mortality. Furthermore, recent studies have indicated that road traffic and railway noise may increase the risk of diseases not commonly investigated in an environmental noise context, including breast cancer, dementia, and tinnitus. The harmful effects of noise are related to activation of a physiological stress response and nighttime sleep disturbance. Oxidative stress and inflammation downstream of stress hormone signaling and dysregulated circadian rhythms are identified as major disease-relevant pathomechanistic drivers. We discuss the role of reactive oxygen species and present results from antioxidant interventions. Lastly, we provide an overview of oxidative stress markers and adverse redox processes reported for noise-exposed animals and humans. This position paper summarizes all available epidemiological, clinical, and preclinical evidence of transportation noise as an important environmental risk factor for public health and discusses its implications on the population level.

Adnp-mutant mice with cognitive inflexibility, CaMKIIα hyperactivity, and synaptic plasticity deficits

ADNP syndrome, involving the ADNP transcription factor of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex, is characterized by developmental delay, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Although Adnp-haploinsufficient (Adnp-HT) mice display various phenotypic deficits, whether these mice display abnormal synaptic functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report synaptic plasticity deficits associated with cognitive inflexibility and CaMKIIα hyperactivity in Adnp-HT mice. These mice show impaired and inflexible contextual learning and memory, additional to social deficits, long after the juvenile-stage decrease of ADNP protein levels to ~10% of the newborn level. The adult Adnp-HT hippocampus shows hyperphosphorylated CaMKIIα and its substrates, including SynGAP1, and excessive long-term potentiation that is normalized by CaMKIIα inhibition. Therefore, Adnp haploinsufficiency in mice leads to cognitive inflexibility involving CaMKIIα hyperphosphorylation and excessive LTP in adults long after its marked expressional decrease in juveniles.

Docosahexaenoic acid contributes to increased CaMKII protein expression and a tendency to increase nNOS protein expression in differentiated NG108-15 cells

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3), an n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, has various important roles in brain functions. Nitric oxide (NO) produced by neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and Ca²⁺/calmodulindependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is also involved in brain functions. We investigated the influence of DHA on nNOS and CaMKII protein expression in differentiated NG108-15 cells. NG108-15 cells were seeded in 12-well plates, and after 24 h, the medium was replaced with Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing 1% fetal bovine serum, 0.2 mM dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate and 100 nM dexamethasone as differentiation-inducing medium. When cells were cultured in differentiation-inducing medium, neurite-like outgrowths were observed on days 5 and 6. However, no significant difference in morphology was observed in cells with or without DHA treatment. With or without DHA addition, nNOS protein expression was increased on days 5 and 6 compared with day 0. This increase tended to be enhanced by DHA. CaMKII protein expression did not change after differentiation without DHA, but was significantly increased on day 6 compared with day 0 with DHA addition. These data indicate that DHA is involved in brain functions by regulating CaMKII and nNOS protein expression.

Translational and post-translational dynamics in a model peptidergic system

The cell bodies of hypothalamic magnocellular neurones are densely packed in the hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus whereas their axons project to the anatomically discrete posterior pituitary gland. We have taken advantage of this unique anatomical structure to establish proteome and phosphoproteome dynamics in neuronal cell bodies and axonal terminals in response to physiological stimulation. We have found that proteome and phosphoproteome responses to neuronal stimulation are very different between somatic and axonal neuronal compartments, indicating the need of each cell domain to differentially adapt. In particular, changes in the phosphoproteome in the cell body are involved in the reorganisation of the cytoskeleton and in axonal terminals the regulation of synaptic and secretory processes. We have identified that prohormone precursors including vasopressin and oxytocin are phosphorylated in axonal terminals and are hyperphosphorylated following stimulation. By multi-omic integration of transcriptome and proteomic data we identify changes to proteins present in afferent inputs to this nucleus.

Nitric Oxide Synthase Blockade Impairs Spontaneous Calcium Activity in Mouse Primary Hippocampal Culture Cells

Oscillation of intracellular calcium concentration is a stable phenomenon that affects cellular function throughout the lifetime of both electrically excitable and non-excitable cells. Nitric oxide, a gaseous secondary messenger and the product of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), affects intracellular calcium dynamics. Using mouse hippocampal primary cultures, we recorded the effect of NOS blockade on neuronal spontaneous calcium activity. There was a correlation between the amplitude of spontaneous calcium events and the number of action potentials (APs) (Spearman R = 0.94). There was a linear rise of DAF-FM fluorescent emission showing an increase in NO concentration with time in neurons (11.9 ± 1.0%). There is correlation between the integral of the signal from DAF-FM and the integral of the spontaneous calcium event signal from Oregon Green 488 (Spearman R = 0.58). Blockade of NOS affected the parameters of the spontaneous calcium events studied (amplitude, frequency, integral, rise slope and decay slope). NOS blockade by Nw-Nitro-L-arginine suppressed the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous calcium events. The NOS blocker 3-Bromo-7-Nitroindazole reduced the frequency but not the amplitude of spontaneous calcium activity. Blockade of the well-known regulator of NOS, calcineurin with cyclosporine A reduced the integral of calcium activity in neurons. The differences and similarities in the effects on the parameters of spontaneous calcium effects caused by different blockades of NO production help to improve understanding of how NO synthesis affects calcium dynamics in neurons.

Nitrosative stress in Parkinson's disease

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized, in part, by the loss of dopaminergic neurons within the nigral-striatal pathway. Multiple lines of evidence support a role for reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in degeneration of this pathway, specifically nitric oxide (NO). This review will focus on how RNS leads to loss of dopaminergic neurons in PD and whether RNS accumulation represents a central signal in the degenerative cascade. Herein, we provide an overview of how RNS accumulates in PD by considering the various cellular sources of RNS including nNOS, iNOS, nitrate, and nitrite reduction and describe evidence that these sources are upregulating RNS in PD. We document that over 1/3 of the proteins that deposit in Lewy Bodies, are post-translationally modified (S-nitrosylated) by RNS and provide a broad description of how this elicits deleterious effects in neurons. In doing so, we identify specific proteins that are modified by RNS in neurons which are implicated in PD pathogenesis, with an emphasis on exacerbation of synucleinopathy. How nitration of alpha-synuclein (aSyn) leads to aSyn misfolding and toxicity in PD models is outlined. Furthermore, we delineate how RNS modulates known PD-related phenotypes including axo-dendritic-, mitochondrial-, and dopamine-dysfunctions. Finally, we discuss successful outcomes of therapeutics that target S-nitrosylation of proteins in Parkinson’s Disease related clinical trials. In conclusion, we argue that targeting RNS may be of therapeutic benefit for people in early clinical stages of PD.

The Interplay between cGMP and Calcium Signaling in Alzheimer’s Disease

Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) is a ubiquitous second messenger and a key molecule in many important signaling cascades in the body and brain, including phototransduction, olfaction, vasodilation, and functional hyperemia. Additionally, cGMP is involved in long-term potentiation (LTP), a cellular correlate of learning and memory, and recent studies have identified the cGMP-increasing drug Sildenafil as a potential risk modifier in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AD development is accompanied by a net increase in the expression of nitric oxide (NO) synthases but a decreased activity of soluble guanylate cyclases, so the exact sign and extent of AD-mediated imbalance remain unclear. Moreover, human patients and mouse models of the disease present with entangled deregulation of both cGMP and Ca²⁺ signaling, e.g., causing changes in cGMP-mediated Ca²⁺ release from the intracellular stores as well as Ca²⁺-mediated cGMP production. Still, the mechanisms governing such interplay are poorly understood. Here, we review the recent data on mechanisms underlying the brain cGMP signaling and its interconnection with Ca²⁺ signaling. We also discuss the recent evidence stressing the importance of such interplay for normal brain function as well as in Alzheimer’s disease.

The Intestinal Redox System and Its Significance in Chemotherapy-Induced Intestinal Mucositis

Chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis (CIM) is a significant dose-limiting adverse reaction brought on by the cancer treatment. Multiple studies reported that reactive oxygen species (ROS) is rapidly produced during the initial stages of chemotherapy, when the drugs elicit direct damage to intestinal mucosal cells, which, in turn, results in necrosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ROS production. However, the mechanism behind the intestinal redox system-based induction of intestinal mucosal injury and necrosis of CIM is still undetermined. In this article, we summarized relevant information regarding the intestinal redox system, including the composition and regulation of redox enzymes, ROS generation, and its regulation in the intestine. We innovatively proposed the intestinal redox “Tai Chi” theory and revealed its significance in the pathogenesis of CIM. We also conducted an extensive review of the English language-based literatures involving oxidative stress (OS) and its involvement in the pathological mechanisms of CIM. From the date of inception till July 31, 2021, 51 related articles were selected. Based on our analysis of these articles, only five chemotherapeutic drugs, namely, MTX, 5-FU, cisplatin, CPT-11, and oxaliplatin were shown to trigger the ROS-based pathological mechanisms of CIM. We also discussed the redox system-mediated modulation of CIM pathogenesis via elaboration of the relationship between chemotherapeutic drugs and the redox system. It is our belief that this overview of the intestinal redox system and its role in CIM pathogenesis will greatly enhance research direction and improve CIM management in the future.

Redox Switches in Noise-Induced Cardiovascular and Neuronal Dysregulation

Environmental exposures represent a significant health hazard, which cumulatively may be responsible for up to 2/3 of all chronic non-communicable disease and associated mortality (Global Burden of Disease Study and The Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health), which has given rise to a new concept of the exposome: the sum of environmental factors in every individual’s experience. Noise is part of the exposome and is increasingly being investigated as a health risk factor impacting neurological, cardiometabolic, endocrine, and immune health. Beyond the well-characterized effects of high-intensity noise on cochlear damage, noise is relatively well-studied in the cardiovascular field, where evidence is emerging from both human and translational experiments that noise from traffic-related sources could represent a risk factor for hypertension, ischemic heart disease, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. In the present review, we comprehensively discuss the current state of knowledge in the field of noise research. We give a brief survey of the literature documenting experiments in noise exposure in both humans and animals with a focus on cardiovascular disease. We also discuss the mechanisms that have been uncovered in recent years that describe how exposure to noise affects physiological homeostasis, leading to aberrant redox signaling resulting in metabolic and immune consequences, both of which have considerable impact on cardiovascular health. Additionally, we discuss the molecular pathways of redox involvement in the stress responses to noise and how they manifest in disruptions of the circadian rhythm, inflammatory signaling, gut microbiome composition, epigenetic landscape and vessel function.

Duration of Social Isolation Affects Production of Nitric Oxide in the Rat Brain

Social isolation deprives rodents of social interactions that are critical for normal development of brain and behavior. Several studies have indicated that postweaning isolation rearing may affect nitric oxide (NO) production. The aim of this study was to compare selected behavioral and biochemical changes related to NO production in the brain of rats reared in social isolation for different duration. At the age of 21 days, male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned into four groups reared in isolation or socially for 10 or 29 weeks. At the end of the rearing, open-field and prepulse inhibition (PPI) tests were carried out. Furthermore, in several brain areas we assessed NO synthase (NOS) activity, protein expression of nNOS and iNOS isoforms and the concentration of conjugated dienes (CD), a marker of oxidative damage and lipid peroxidation. Social isolation for 10 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in PPI, which was accompanied by a decrease in NOS activity in the cerebral cortex and the cerebellum, an increase in iNOS in the hippocampus and an increase in CD concentration in cortex homogenate. On the other hand, a 29 week isolation had an opposite effect on NOS activity, which increased in the cerebral cortex and the cerebellum in animals reared in social isolation, accompanied by a decrease in CD concentration. The decrease in NOS activity after 10 weeks of isolation might have been caused by chronic stress induced by social isolation, which has been documented in previous studies. The increased oxidative state might result in the depleted NO bioavailability, as NO reacts with superoxide radical creating peroxynitrite. After 29 weeks of isolation, this loss of NO might be compensated by the subsequent increase in NOS activity.

Neurophysiologic implications of neuronal nitric oxide synthase

The molecular and chemical properties of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) have made it a key mediator in many physiological functions and signaling transduction. The NOS monomer is inactive, but the dimer form is active. There are three forms of NOS, which are neuronal (nNOS), inducible (iNOS), and endothelial (eNOS) nitric oxide synthase. nNOS regulates nitric oxide (NO) synthesis which is the mechanism used mostly by neurons to produce NO. nNOS expression and activation is regulated by some important signaling proteins, such as cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element-binding protein (CREB), calmodulin (CaM), heat shock protein 90 (HSP90)/HSP70. nNOS-derived NO has been implicated in modulating many physiological functions, such as synaptic plasticity, learning, memory, neurogenesis, etc. In this review, we have summarized recent studies that have characterized structural features, subcellular localization, and factors that regulate nNOS function. Finally, we have discussed the role of nNOS in the developing brain under a wide range of physiological conditions, especially long-term potentiation and depression.

Latent Sex Differences in CaMKII-nNOS Signaling That Underlie Antidepressant-Like Effects of Yueju-Ganmaidazao Decoction in the Hippocampus

Previous studies have demonstrated that Yueju-Ganmaidazao (YG) decoction induces rapid antidepressant-like effects, and the antidepressant response is mostly dependent on the suppression of nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate signaling in male mice. This study aimed to investigate the sex difference mediated by calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII)-neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) signaling involved in the antidepressant-like effect of YG in mice. We found that the immobility times in the tail suspension test (TST) were found to be decreased after the single injection of YG in male and female mice with the same dosage. Additionally, chronic administration for 4 days of subthreshold dosage of YG and escitalopram (ES) also significantly decreased the immobility time in mice of both sexes. Chronic subthreshold dosage of YG and ES in LPS-treated mice and in chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) mice both decreased the immobility time, which was increased by stress. Meanwhile, in CUS-treated mice, sucrose preference test, forced swimming test, and open field test were applied to further confirm the antidepressant-like effects of YG and ES. Moreover, CUS significantly decreased the expression of nNOS and CaMKII, and both YG and ES could enhance the expression in the hippocampus of female mice, which was opposite to that in male mice, while endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression was not affected by stress or drug treatment neither in male mice nor in female mice. Finally, subthreshold dosage of YG combined with 7-nitroindazole (nNOS inhibitor) induced the antidepressant-like effects both in female and in male mice, while the single use of YG or 7-NI did not display any effect. However, pretreatment with KN-93 (CaMKII inhibitor) only blocked the antidepressant-like effect of high-dosage YG in female mice. Meanwhile, in CUS mice, chronic stress caused NR1 overexpression and inhibited cAMP response element binding protein action, which were both reversed by YG and ES in male and female mice, implying that YG and ES produced the same antidepressant-like effect in mice of both sexes. The study revealed that chronic treatment with a subthreshold dose of YG also produced antidepressant-like effects in female mice, and these effects depended on the regulation of the CaMKII-nNOS signaling pathway.

PP1/PP2A phosphatase inhibition-induced metaplasticity in protein synthesis blocker-treated hippocampal slices: LTP and LTD, or There and Back again

Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) are key forms of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. LTP and LTD are believed to underlie the processes occurring during learning and memory. Search of mechanisms responsible for switching from LTP to LTD and vice versa is an important fundamental task. Protein synthesis blockers (PSB) are widely used in models of memory impairment and LTP suppression. Here, we found that blockade of serine/threonine phosphatases 1 (PP1) and 2A (PP2A) with the specific blockers, calyculin A (CalyA) or okadaic acid (OA), and simultaneous blockade of the protein translation by anisomycin or cycloheximide leads to a switch from PSB-impaired LTP to LTD. PP1/PP2A-dependent LTD was extremely sensitive to the intensity of the test stimuli, whose increase restored the field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSP) to the values corresponding to control LTP in the non-treated slices. PP1/PP2A blockade affected the basal synaptic transmission, increasing the paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) ratio, and restored the PSB-impaired PPF 3 h after tetanus. Prolonged exposure to anisomycin led to the NO synthesis increase (measured using fluorescent dye) both in the dendrites and somata of CA1, CA3, dentate gyrus (DG) hippocampal layers. OA partially prevented the NO production in the CA1 dendrites, as well in the CA3 and DG somas. Direct measurements of changes in serine/threonine phosphatase (STPP) activity revealed importance of the PP1/PP2A-dependent component in the late LTP phase (L-LTP) in anisomycin-treated slices. Thus, serine/threonine phosphatases PP1/PP2A influence both basal synaptic transmission and stimulation-induced synaptic plasticity.

Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase (nNOS) in Neutrophils: An Insight

NO (nitric oxide) is an important regulator of neutrophil functions and has a key role in diverse pathophysiological conditions. NO production by nitric oxide synthases (NOS) is under tight control at transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels including interactions with heterologous proteins owing to its potent chemical reactivity and high diffusibility; this limits toxicity to other cellular components and promotes signaling specificity. The protein-protein interactions govern the activity and spatial distribution of NOS isoform to regulatory proteins and to their intended targets. In comparison with the vast literature available for endothelial, macrophages, and neuronal cells, demonstrating neuronal NOS (nNOS) interaction with other proteins through the PDZ domain, neutrophil nNOS, however, remains unexplored. Neutrophil's key role in both physiological and pathological conditions necessitates the need for further studies in delineating the NOS mediated NO modulations in signaling pathways operational in them. nNOS has been linked to depression, schizophrenia, and Parkinson's disease, suggesting the importance of exploring nNOS/NO-mediated neutrophil physiology in relation to such neuronal disorders. The review thus presents the scenario of neutrophil nNOS from the genetics to the functional level, including protein-protein interactions governing its intracellular sequestration in diverse cell types, besides speculating possible regulation in neutrophils and also addressing their clinical implications.

The heart is lost without the hypothalamus

Neuroanatomic and functional studies show the paraventricular (PVN) of the hypothalamus to have a central role in the autonomic control that supports cardiovascular regulation. Direct and indirect projections from the PVN preautonomic neurons to the sympathetic preganglionic neurons in the spinal cord modulate sympathetic activity. The preautonomic neurons of the PVN adjust their level of activation in response to afferent signals arising from peripheral viscerosensory receptors relayed through the nucleus tractus solitarius. The prevailing sympathetic tone is a balance between excitatory and inhibitory influences that arises from the preautonomic PVN neurons. Under physiologic conditions, tonic sympathetic inhibition driven by a nitric oxide-γ-aminobutyric acid-mediated mechanism is dominant, but in pathologic situation such as heart failure there is a switch from inhibition to sympathoexcitation driven by glutamate and angiotensin II. Angiotensin II, reactive oxygen species, and hypoxia as a result of myocardial infarction/ischemia alter the tightly regulated posttranslational protein-protein interaction of CAPON (carboxy-terminal postsynaptic density protein ligand of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS1)) and PIN (protein inhibitor of NOS1) signaling mechanism. Within the preautonomic neurons of the PVN, the disruption of CAPON and PIN signaling leads to a downregulation of NOS1 expression and reduced NO bioavailability. These data support the notion that CAPON-PIN dysregulation of NO bioavailability is a major contributor to the pathogenesis of sympathoexcitation in heart failure.

The Molecular Simulation Study of nNOS Activation Induced by the Interaction Between Its Calmodulin-Binding Domain and SUMO1

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), an enzyme required for learning and memory, catalyzes L-arginine decomposition during nitric oxide production in mammalian neurons. Over-activation of nNOS leads to oxidative/nitrosative stress, which is part of the pathophysiological process of various neuropsychiatric disorders. Previous experimental studies suggest that nNOS is a target for small ubiquitin-like modifier 1 (SUMO1), and that SUMO1-ylation upregulates nNOS catalytic activity in hippocampal neurons. To date, a comprehensive structural model has not been proposed for nNOS SUMO1-ylation. In this study, our aim was to build in silico models to identify the non-bonded interactions between SUMO1 and the calmodulin binding domain (CaMBD) of nNOS. Using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation, we found that SUMO1 modification stabilizes the conformation of nNOS CaMBD, and helps maintain a conformation beneficial for nNOS catalysis. Analysis of the polar contacts and hydrogen bonds, and the root mean square derivation results showed that R726 and R727 of CaMBD formed polar contacts or high occupancy hydrogen bonds with SUMO1. Correlation factor analysis and free energy calculations showed that the W716, L734, F740, M745, and F781 residues were also involved in the SUMO1/CaMBD interaction in an orientation-dependent manner. The potential inhibitor binding pocket of SUMO1, aimed at disrupting SUMO1/CaMBD binding, was detected from the virtual screening results. Our in silico studies revealed that interfering with the non-bonded interactions of SUMO1/CaMBD would blocked nNOS SUMO-ylation and subsequent hyperactivation. This work provides novel structural insight into the functional regulation of nNOS by post-translational SUMO1 modification, and provides suggestions for the design of drugs targeting nNOS hyperactivation.

Coordination between Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II and Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase in Neurons

Ca²⁺/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is highly abundant in the brain and exhibits broad substrate specificity, thereby it is thought to participate in the regulation of neuronal death and survival. Nitric oxide (NO), produced by neuronal NO synthase (nNOS), is an important neurotransmitter and plays a role in neuronal activity including learning and memory processes. However, high levels of NO can contribute to excitotoxicity following a stroke and neurodegenerative disease. Aside from NO, nNOS also generates superoxide which is involved in both cell injury and signaling. CaMKII is known to activate and translocate from the cytoplasm to the post-synaptic density in response to neuronal activation where nNOS is predominantly located. Phosphorylation of nNOS at Ser847 by CaMKII decreases NO generation and increases superoxide generation. Conversely, NO-induced S-nitrosylation of CaMKII at Cys6 is a prominent determinant of the CaMKII inhibition in ATP competitive fashion. Thus, the "cross-talk" between CaMKII and NO/superoxide may represent important signal transduction pathways in brain. In this review, we introduce the molecular mechanism of and pathophysiological role of mutual regulation between CaMKII and nNOS in neurons.

Effect of neuronal nitric oxide synthase serine-1412 phosphorylation on hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian function and leptin response

Hypothalamic neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) potentiates adult female fertility in rodents by stimulating gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, which in turn promotes luteinizing hormone (LH) release and ovulation. The mechanism of hypothalamic nNOS activation is not clear but could be via nNOS serine1412 (S1412) phosphorylation, which increases nNOS activity and physiologic NO effects in other organ systems. In female rodents, hypothalamic nNOS S1412 phosphorylation reportedly increases during proestrus or upon acute leptin exposure during diestrus. To determine if nNOS S1412 regulates female reproduction in mice, we compared the reproductive anatomy, estrous cycle duration and phase proportion, and fecundity of wild-type and nNOS serine1412➔alanine (nNOSS1412A) knock-in female mice. We also measured hypothalamic GnRH and serum LH, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, and progesterone in diestrus mice after intraperitoneal leptin injection. Organ weights and histology were not different by genotype. Ovarian primordial follicles, antral follicles, and corpora lutea were similar for wild-type and nNOSS1412A mice. Likewise, estrous cycle duration and phase length were not different, and fecundity was unremarkable. There were no differences among genotypes for LH, FSH, estradiol, or progesterone. In contrast to prior studies, our work suggests that nNOS S1412 phosphorylation is dispensable for normal hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian function and regular estrous cycling. These findings have important implications for current models of fertility regulation by nNOS phosphorylation.

New Mechanism for the Sex Differences in Salt-Sensitive Hypertension: The Role of Macula Densa NOS1β-Mediated Tubuloglomerular Feedback

Females are relatively resistant to salt-sensitive hypertension than males, but the mechanisms are not completely elucidated. We recently demonstrated a decisive role of macula densa neuronal NOS1β (nitric oxide synthase β)-mediated tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) in the long-term control of glomerular filtration rate, sodium excretion, and blood pressure. In the present study, we hypothesized that the macula densa NOS1β-mediated TGF mechanism is different between male and female, thereby contributing to the sexual dimorphism of salt-sensitive hypertension. We used microperfusion, micropuncture, clearance of fluorescein isothiocyanate-inulin, and radio telemetry to examine the sex differences in the changes of macula densa NOS1β expression and activity, TGF response, natriuresis, and blood pressure after salt loading in wild-type and macula densa-specific NOS1 knockout mice. In wild-type mice, a high-salt diet induced greater increases in macula densa NOS1β expression and phosphorylation at Ser 1417, greater nitric oxide generation by the macula densa, and more inhibition in TGF response in vitro and in vivo in females than in males. Additionally, the increases of glomerular filtration rate, urine flow rate, and sodium excretion in response to an acute volume expansion were significantly greater in females than in males. The blood pressure responses to angiotensin II plus a high-salt diet were significantly less in females than in males. In contrast, these sex differences in TGF, natriuretic response, and blood pressure were largely diminished in knockout mice. In conclusion, macula densa NOS1β-mediated TGF is a novel and important mechanism for the sex differences in salt-sensitive hypertension.

Activity-Induced SUMOylation of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase Is Associated with Plasticity of Synaptic Transmission and Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase 1/2 Signaling

Aims: Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) signaling have been implicated in learning, memory, and underlying long-lasting synaptic plasticity. In this study, we aimed at detecting whether nNOS is a target protein of SUMOylation in the hippocampus and its contributions to hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic transmission. Results: We showed that N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-dependent neuronal activity enhancement induced the attachment of small ubiquitin-like modifier 1 (SUMO1) to nNOS. Protein inhibitor of activated STAT3 (PIAS3) promoted SUMO1 conjugation at K725 and K739 on nNOS, which upregulated NO production and nNOS S1412 phosphorylation (activation). In addition, the N-terminus (amino acids 43-86) of PIAS3 bound nNOS directly. Tat-tagged PIAS3 segment representing amino acids 43-86, a cell-permeable peptide containing PIAS3 residues 43-86, suppressed activity-induced nNOS SUMOylation by disrupting PIAS3-nNOS association. It also decreased LTP-related expression of Arc and brain-derived neurotrophic factor and blocked signaling via extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 and Elk-1 in the hippocampus. More importantly, PIAS3-mediated nNOS SUMOylation was required for activity-regulated ERK1/2 activation in nNOS-positive neurons and hippocampal LTP induction. Innovation and Conclusion: These findings indicated that network activity-regulated nNOS SUMOylation underlies excitatory synaptic LTP by facilitating nNOS-NO-ERK1/2 signal cascades.

Crucial role for Nox2 and sleep deprivation in aircraft noise-induced vascular and cerebral oxidative stress, inflammation, and gene regulation

Aims

Aircraft noise causes endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Transportation noise increases the incidence of coronary artery disease, hypertension, and stroke. The underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Herein, we investigated effects of phagocyte-type NADPH oxidase (Nox2) knockout and different noise protocols (around-the-clock, sleep/awake phase noise) on vascular and cerebral complications in mice.

Methods and results

C57BL/6j and Nox2^−/− (gp91phox^−/−) mice were exposed to aircraft noise (maximum sound level of 85 dB(A), average sound pressure level of 72 dB(A)) around-the-clock or during sleep/awake phases for 1, 2, and 4 days. Adverse effects of around-the-clock noise on the vasculature and brain were mostly prevented by Nox2 deficiency. Around-the-clock aircraft noise of the mice caused the most pronounced vascular effects and dysregulation of Foxo3/circadian clock as revealed by next generation sequencing (NGS), suggesting impaired sleep quality in exposed mice. Accordingly, sleep but not awake phase noise caused increased blood pressure, endothelial dysfunction, increased markers of vascular/systemic oxidative stress, and inflammation. Noise also caused cerebral oxidative stress and inflammation, endothelial and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (e/nNOS) uncoupling, nNOS mRNA and protein down-regulation, and Nox2 activation. NGS revealed similarities in adverse gene regulation between around-the-clock and sleep phase noise. In patients with established coronary artery disease, night-time aircraft noise increased oxidative stress, and inflammation biomarkers in serum.

Conclusion

Aircraft noise increases vascular and cerebral oxidative stress via Nox2. Sleep deprivation and/or fragmentation caused by noise triggers vascular dysfunction. Thus, preventive measures that reduce night-time aircraft noise are warranted.

High-Protein Diet-Induced Glomerular Hyperfiltration Is Dependent on Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase β in the Macula Densa via Tubuloglomerular Feedback Response

It is well known that high protein intake increases glomerular filtration rate. Evidence from several studies indicated that NO and tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) mediate the effect. However, a recent study with a neuronal NO synthase-α knockout model refuted this mechanism and concluded that neither neuronal NO synthase nor TGF response is involved in the protein-induced hyperfiltration. To examine the discrepancy, this study tested a hypothesis that neuronal NO synthase-β in the macula densa mediates the high-protein diet-induced glomerular hyperfiltration via TGF mechanism. We examined the effects of high protein intake on NO generation at the macula densa, TGF response, and glomerular filtration rate in wild-type and macula densa-specific neuronal NO synthase KO mice. In wild-type mice, high-protein diet increased kidney weight, glomerular filtration rate, and renal blood flow, while reduced renal vascular resistance. TGF response in vivo and in vitro was blunted, and NO generation in the macula densa was increased following high-protein diet, associated with upregulations of neuronal NO synthase-β expression and phosphorylation at Ser1417. In contrast, these high-protein diet-induced changes in NO generation at the macula densa, TGF response, renal blood flow, and glomerular filtration rate in wild-type mice were largely attenuated in macula densa-specific neuronal NO synthase KO mice. In conclusion, we demonstrated that high-protein diet-induced glomerular hyperfiltration is dependent on neuronal NO synthase β in the macula densa via TGF response.

Dopamine Receptor Blockade Attenuates Purinergic P2X4 Receptor-Mediated Prepulse Inhibition Deficits and Underlying Molecular Mechanisms

Sensorimotor gating refers to the ability to filter incoming sensory information in a stimulus-laden environment and disruption of this physiological process has been documented in psychiatric disorders characterized by cognitive aberrations. The effectiveness of current pharmacotherapies for treatment of sensorimotor gating deficits in the patient population still remains controversial. These challenges emphasize the need to better understand the biological underpinnings of sensorimotor gating which could lead to discovery of novel drug targets for therapeutic intervention. Notably, we recently reported a role for purinergic P2X4 receptors (P2X4Rs) in regulation of sensorimotor gating using prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle reflex. P2X4Rs are ion channels gated by adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ATP). Ivermectin (IVM) induced PPI deficits in C57BL/6J mice in a P2X4R-specific manner. Furthermore, mice deficient in P2X4Rs [P2X4R knockout (KO)] exhibited PPI deficits that were alleviated by dopamine (DA) receptor antagonists demonstrating an interaction between P2X4Rs and DA receptors in PPI regulation. On the basis of these findings, we hypothesized that increased DA neurotransmission underlies IVM-mediated PPI deficits. To test this hypothesis, we measured the effects of D1 and D2 receptor antagonists, SCH 23390 and raclopride respectively and D1 agonist, SKF 82958 on IVM-mediated PPI deficits. To gain mechanistic insights, we investigated the interaction between IVM and dopaminergic drugs on signaling molecules linked to PPI regulation in the ventral striatum. SCH 23390 significantly attenuated the PPI disruptive effects of IVM to a much greater degree than that of raclopride. SKF 82958 failed to potentiate IVM-mediated PPI disruption. At the molecular level, modulation of D1 receptors altered IVM’s effects on dopamine and cyclic-AMP regulated phosphoprotein of 32 kDa (DARPP-32) phosphorylation. Additionally, IVM interacted with the DA receptors antagonists and SKF 82958 in phosphorylation of Ca²⁺/calmodulin kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) and its downstream target, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). Current findings suggest an involvement for D1 and D2 receptors in IVM-mediated PPI disruption via modulation of DARPP-32, CaMKIIα and nNOS. Taken together, the findings suggest that stimulation of P2X4Rs can lead to DA hyperactivity and disruption of information processing, implicating P2X4Rs as a novel drug target for treatment of psychiatric disorders characterized by sensorimotor gating deficits.

Pathology of nNOS-Expressing GABAergic Neurons in Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia that is often accompanied by mood and emotional disturbances and seizures. There is growing body of evidence that neurons expressing γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) play an important role in regulation of cognition, mood, and emotion as well as seizure susceptibility, but participation of GABAergic neuronal pathology in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is not understood well at present. Here, we report that transgenic mice expressing human amyloid precursor protein Swedish-Dutch-Iowa mutant (APP_SweDI) exhibit early loss of neurons expressing GAD67, a GABA-synthesizing enzyme, in advance of the loss of pyramidal neurons in hippocampal CA1 region. The loss of GAD67⁺ neurons in APP_SweDI mice accompanied with decreased spatial cognition as well as increased anxiety-like behaviors and kainic acid-induced seizure susceptibility at early phase. In the hippocampal CA1 region, GAD67⁺ neurons expressed high basal levels of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and nitrosative stress (nitrotyrosine). Similarly, GAD67⁺ neurons in primary cortical and hippocampal neuron cultures also expressed high basal levels of nNOS and degenerated in response to lower Aβ concentrations due to their high basal levels of nitrosative stress. Given the role of GABAergic neurons in cognitive and neuropsychiatric functions, this study reports the role of nNOS-mediated nitrosative stress in dysfunction of GABAergic neurons and its potential participation in early development of cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD.

Calmodulin-induced Conformational Control and Allostery Underlying Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase Activation

Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is the primary generator of nitric oxide signals controlling diverse physiological processes such as neurotransmission and vasodilation. NOS activation is contingent on Ca²⁺/calmodulin binding at a linker between its oxygenase and reductase domains to induce large conformational changes that orchestrate inter-domain electron transfer. However, the structural dynamics underlying activation of full-length NOS remain ambiguous. Employing hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry, we reveal mechanisms underlying neuronal NOS activation by calmodulin and regulation by phosphorylation. We demonstrate that calmodulin binding orders the junction between reductase and oxygenase domains, exposes the FMN subdomain, and elicits a more dynamic oxygenase active site. Furthermore, we demonstrate that phosphorylation partially mimics calmodulin activation to modulate neuronal NOS activity via long-range allostery. Calmodulin binding and phosphorylation ultimately promote a more dynamic holoenzyme while coordinating inter-domain communication and electron transfer.

Modulation of nNOSser852 phosphorylation and translocation by PKA/PP1 pathway in endothelial cells

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) is now considered an important player in vascular function. It has a protective role in atherosclerosis and hypertension. However, despite its importance, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate its activity in vascular cells. Here we explore the mechanisms by which nNOS is activated in endothelium. We evaluated aorta relaxation response and phosphorylation of nNOS during protein phosphatases 1 and 2 (PP1 and PP2) inhibition, in eNOS silenced mice. PP1 translocation and interaction between the nuclear inhibitor of PP1 (NIPP1) and PP1 was evaluated in endothelial EA.hy926 cells. We demonstrate here that acetylcholine (Ach)-induced relaxation is completely abolished by nNOS inhibition in eNOS silenced mice aorta which also decreased NO and H₂O₂ concentrations. ACh induced dephosphorylation of nNOS^ser852 in aorta after 20 min stimulation. Endothelial cells also showed a decrease in nNOS^ser852 phosphorylation during 20 min of ACh stimulation. PP2 inhibition had no effect on Ach-induced nNOS^Ser852 dephosphorylation in endothelial cells and did not modify Ach-induced vasodilation in aorta from eNOS silenced mice. Non-selective PP1/PP2 inhibition prevented nNOSSer852 dephosphorylation in endothelial cells and prevented Ach-induced vasodilation in eNOS silenced mice. ACh induced time-dependent PP1 and NIPP1 dissociation and PP1 translocation to cytoplasm. Protein kinase A (PKA) inhibition abolished PP1 translocation and further nNOS^ser852 dephosphorylation. In addition, 8-Br-cAMP reduced NIPP1/PP1 interaction, stimulated PP1 translocation and nNOS^ser852 dephosphorylation. Moreover, PKA Inhibition led to a decreased nNOS translocation to perinuclear region. Taken together, our results elucidate a mechanism whereby PP1 is activated by a cAMP/PKA-dependent pathway, leading to dephosphorylation of nNOS^ser852 and subsequent NO and possible H₂O₂ production resulting in endothelium-dependent vascular relaxation.

The gentle art of saying NO: how nitric oxide gets things done in the hypothalamus

The chemical signalling molecule nitric oxide (NO), which freely diffuses through aqueous and lipid environments, subserves an array of functions in the mammalian central nervous system, such as the regulation of synaptic plasticity, blood flow and neurohormone secretion. In this Review, we consider the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which NO evokes short-term and long-term changes in neuronal activity. We also highlight recent studies showing that discrete populations of neurons that synthesize NO in the hypothalamus constitute integrative systems that support life by relaying metabolic and gonadal signals to the neuroendocrine brain, and thus gate the onset of puberty and adult fertility. The putative involvement and therapeutic potential of NO in the pathophysiology of brain diseases, for which hormonal imbalances during postnatal development could be risk factors, is also discussed.

The endocannabinoid system: 'NO' longer anonymous in the control of nitrergic signalling?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a key cellular signalling system that has been implicated in the regulation of diverse cellular functions. Importantly, growing evidence suggests that the biological actions of the ECS may, in part, be mediated through its ability to regulate the production and/or release of nitric oxide, a ubiquitous bioactive molecule, which functions as a versatile signalling intermediate. Herein, we review and discuss evidence pertaining to ECS-mediated regulation of nitric oxide production, as well as the involvement of reactive nitrogen species in regulating ECS-induced signal transduction by highlighting emerging work supporting nitrergic modulation of ECS function. Importantly, the studies outlined reveal that interactions between the ECS and nitrergic signalling systems can be both stimulatory and inhibitory in nature, depending on cellular context. Moreover, such crosstalk may act to maintain proper cell function, whereas abnormalities in either system can undermine cellular homoeostasis and contribute to various pathologies associated with their dysregulation. Consequently, future studies targeting these signalling systems may provide new insights into the potential role of the ECS–nitric oxide signalling axis in disease development and/or lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of nitrosative stress-related neurological, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders.

The neuropeptide F/nitric oxide pathway is essential for shaping locomotor plasticity underlying locust phase transition

Behavioral plasticity is widespread in swarming animals, but little is known about its underlying neural and molecular mechanisms. Here, we report that a neuropeptide F (NPF)/nitric oxide (NO) pathway plays a critical role in the locomotor plasticity of swarming migratory locusts. The transcripts encoding two related neuropeptides, NPF1a and NPF2, show reduced levels during crowding, and the transcript levels of NPF1a and NPF2 receptors significantly increase during locust isolation. Both NPF1a and NPF2 have suppressive effects on phase-related locomotor activity. A key downstream mediator for both NPFs is nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which regulates phase-related locomotor activity by controlling NO synthesis in the locust brain. Mechanistically, NPF1a and NPF2 modify NOS activity by separately suppressing its phosphorylation and by lowering its transcript level, effects that are mediated by their respective receptors. Our results uncover a hierarchical neurochemical mechanism underlying behavioral plasticity in the swarming locust and provide insights into the NPF/NO axis.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.22526.001

Migratory locusts are widespread throughout the Eastern Hemisphere, especially in Asia, Australia and Africa. Although usually solitary insects, locusts can also form swarms made up of millions of individuals, which can devastate crops. Swarming can be studied on a smaller scale in the laboratory by forcing locusts to crowd together. This causes the locusts to enter a so-called gregarious state in which they are more active and sociable, which in turn promotes swarming. Isolating individual locusts has the opposite effect, causing the insects to enter a solitary state in which they are less active.

Chemicals in the locust brain called neuropeptides control phase transitions between solitary and gregarious behavior. Neuropeptides bind to specific proteins called receptors in the outer membranes of neurons and initiate unique signaling cascades inside cells. However, exactly how neuropeptides regulate the changes in locust behavior that affect swarming was not clear.

Hou et al. now reveal the role that two related neuropeptides, NPF1a and NPF2, play in this process. Crowding causes the levels of NPF1a and NPF2 in the locust brain to decrease, whereas isolating individual locusts causes the levels of two NPF receptors to increase. Both neuropeptides reduce levels of a molecule called nitric oxide in the brain. NPF1a does this by reducing the activity of the enzyme that produces nitric oxide, whereas NPF2 reduces the production of this enzyme. The reduction in nitric oxide in turn makes the locusts less active.

Similar NPF neuropeptides had previously been shown to affect activity levels in other invertebrates, such as roundworms and fruit flies. This, combined with the results now presented by Hou et al., suggests that the NPF/nitric oxide pathway may regulate activity in insects in general. Future work should investigate this possibility, as well as whether the NPF/nitric oxide pathway controls changes in other insect behaviors such as feeding and mating.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.22526.002

Post-translational regulation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase: implications for sympathoexcitatory states

INTRODUCTION

Nitric oxide (NO) synthesized via neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) plays a significant role in regulation/modulation of autonomic control of circulation. Various pathological states are associated with diminished nNOS expression and blunted autonomic effects of NO in the central nervous system (CNS) including heart failure, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure etc. Therefore, elucidation of the molecular mechanism/s involved in dysregulation of nNOS is essential to understand the pathogenesis of increased sympathoexcitation in these diseased states. Areas covered: nNOS is a highly regulated enzyme, being regulated at transcriptional and posttranslational levels via protein-protein interactions and modifications viz. phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation. The enzyme activity of nNOS also depends on the optimal concentration of substrate, cofactors and association with regulatory proteins. This review focuses on the posttranslational regulation of nNOS in the context of normal and diseased states within the CNS. Expert opinion: Gaining insight into the mechanism/s involved in the regulation of nNOS would provide novel strategies for manipulating nNOS directed therapeutic modalities in the future, including catalytically active dimer stabilization and protein-protein interactions with intracellular protein effectors. Ultimately, this is expected to provide tools to improve autonomic dysregulation in various diseases such as heart failure, hypertension, and diabetes.

The Expression of NP847 and Sox2 after TBI and Its Influence on NSCs

The proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) is important for neural regeneration after cerebral injury. Here, for the first time, we show that phosphorylated (p)-ser847-nNOS (NP847), rather than nNOS, may play a major role in NSC proliferation after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Western blot results demonstrated that the expression of NP847 and Sox2 in the hippocampus is up-regulated after TBI, and they both peak 3 days after brain injury. In addition, an immunofluorescence experiment indicated that NP847 and Sox2 partly co-localize in the nuclei of NSCs after TBI. Further immunoprecipitation experiments found that NP847 and Sox2 can directly interact with each other in NSCs. Moreover, in an OGD model of NSCs, NP847 expression is decreased, which is followed by the down-regulation of Sox2. Interestingly, in this study, we did not observe changes in the expression of nNOS in the OGD model. Further research data suggest that the NP847-Sox2 complex may play a major role in NSCs through the Shh/Gli signaling pathway in a CaMKII-dependent manner after brain injury.

Extracellular Protein Kinase A Modulates Intracellular Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II, Nitric Oxide Synthase, and the Glutamate-Nitric Oxide-cGMP Pathway in Cerebellum. Differential Effects in Hyperammonemia

Extracellular protein kinases, including cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), modulate neuronal functions including N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor-dependent long-term potentiation. NMDA receptor activation increases calcium, which binds to calmodulin and activates nitric oxide synthase (NOS), increasing nitric oxide (NO), which activates guanylate cyclase, increasing cGMP, which is released to the extracellular fluid, allowing analysis of this glutamate-NO-cGMP pathway in vivo by microdialysis. The function of this pathway is impaired in hyperammonemic rats. The aims of this work were to assess (1) whether the glutamate-NO-cGMP pathway is modulated in cerebellum in vivo by an extracellular PKA, (2) the role of phosphorylation and activity of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and NOS in the pathway modulation by extracellular PKA, and (3) whether the effects are different in hyperammonemic and control rats. The pathway was analyzed by in vivo microdialysis. The role of extracellular PKA was analyzed by inhibiting it with a membrane-impermeable inhibitor. The mechanisms involved were analyzed in freshly isolated cerebellar slices from control and hyperammonemic rats. In control rats, inhibiting extracellular PKA reduces the glutamate-NO-cGMP pathway function in vivo. This is due to reduction of CaMKII phosphorylation and activity, which reduces NOS phosphorylation at Ser1417 and NOS activity, resulting in reduced guanylate cyclase activation and cGMP formation. In hyperammonemic rats, under basal conditions, CaMKII phosphorylation and activity are increased, increasing NOS phosphorylation at Ser847, which reduces NOS activity, guanylate cyclase activation, and cGMP. Inhibiting extracellular PKA in hyperammonemic rats normalizes CaMKII phosphorylation and activity, NOS phosphorylation, NOS activity, and cGMP, restoring normal function of the pathway.

Metalloneurochemistry and the Pierian Spring: 'Shallow Draughts Intoxicate the Brain'

Metal ions perform critical and diverse functions in nervous system physiology and pathology. The field of metalloneurochemistry aims to understand the mechanistic bases for these varied roles at the molecular level. Here, we review several areas of research that illustrate progress toward achieving this ambitious goal and identify key challenges for the future. We examine the use of lithium as a mood stabilizer, the roles of mobile zinc and copper in the synapse, the interplay of nitric oxide and metals in retrograde signaling, and the regulation of iron homeostasis in the brain. These topics were chosen to demonstrate not only the breadth of the field, but also to highlight opportunities for discovery by studying such complex systems in greater detail. We are beginning to uncover the principles by which receptors and transmitters utilize metal ions to modulate neurotransmission. These advances have revealed exciting new insights into the intricate mechanisms that give rise to learning, memory, and sensory perception, while opening many new avenues for further exploration.

Oestrogen-Modulated Increase of Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II (CamKII) in Rat Spinal Trigeminal Nucleus After Systemic Nitroglycerin

Migraine can be triggered by systemic administration of the nitric oxide (NO) donor nitroglycerin (NTG) and by abrupt falls in plasma oestradiol. Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CamKII) present in superficial dorsal horns is thought to play a role in sensitization of central nociceptors, a phenomen present in migraineurs. We therefore examined in rats the expression of CamKII in the caudal trigeminal nucleus (TNC) after subcutaneous NTG (10 mg/kg) and its modulation by oestrogen. In male rats and in ovariectomized females, after 4 h NTG increased significantly CamKII expression in the superficial layers of TNC, but not in the upper thoracic spinal cord. NTG had no effect on CamKII expression in oestradiol-treated ovariectomized animals. Thus NTG, i.e. NO, selectively enhances CamKII in the rat TNC and oestradiol blocks this effect. These data may help to understand the mechanisms by which NO triggers migraine attacks and oestrogens influence migraine severity.

Psychostimulant-Induced Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Neurodegeneration

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a subcellular organelle that ensures proper protein folding process. The ER stress is defined as cellular conditions that disturb the ER homeostasis, resulting in accumulation of unfolded and/or misfolded proteins in the lumen of the ER. The presence of these proteins within the ER activates the ER stress response, known as unfolded protein response (UPR), to restore normal functions of the ER. However, under the severe and/or prolonged ER stress, UPR initiates apoptotic cell death. Psychostimulants such as cocaine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine cause the ER stress and/or apoptotic cell death in regions of the brain related to drug addiction. Recent studies have shown that the ER stress in response to psychostimulants is linked to behavioral sensitization and that the psychostimulant-induced ER stress signaling cascades are closely associated with the pathogenesis of the neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, this review was conducted to improve understanding of the functional role of the ER stress in the addiction as well as neurodegenerative diseases. This would be helpful to facilitate development of new therapeutic strategies for the drug addiction and/or neurodegenerative diseases caused or exacerbated by exposure to psychostimulants.

Blocking a vicious cycle nNOS/peroxynitrite/AMPK by S-nitrosoglutathione: implication for stroke therapy

BACKGROUND

Stroke immediately sets into motion sustained excitotoxicity and calcium dysregulation, causing aberrant activity in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and an imbalance in the levels of nitric oxide (NO). Drugs targeting nNOS-originated toxicity may therefore reduce stroke-induced damage. Recently, we observed that a redox-modulating agent of the NO metabolome, S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), confers neurovascular protection by reducing the levels of peroxynitrite, a product of aberrant NOS activity. We therefore investigated whether GSNO-mediated neuroprotection and improved neurological functions depend on blocking nNOS/peroxynitrite-associated injurious mechanisms using a rat model of cerebral ischemia reperfusion (IR).

RESULTS

IR increased the activity of nNOS, the levels of neuronal peroxynitrite and phosphorylation at Ser(1412) of nNOS. GSNO treatment of IR animals decreased IR-activated nNOS activity and neuronal peroxynitrite levels by reducing nNOS phosphorylation at Ser(1412). The Ser(1412) phosphorylation is associated with increased nNOS activity. Supporting the notion that nNOS activity and peroxynitrite are deleterious following IR, inhibition of nNOS by its inhibitor 7-nitroindazole or reducing peroxynitrite by its scavenger FeTPPS decreased IR injury. GSNO also decreased the activation of AMP Kinase (AMPK) and its upstream kinase LKB1, both of which were activated in IR brain. AMPK has been implicated in nNOS activation via Ser(1412) phosphorylation. To determine whether AMPK activation is deleterious in the acute phase of IR, we treated animals after IR with AICAR (an AMPK activator) and compound c (an AMPK inhibitor). While AICAR potentiated, compound c reduced the IR injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these results indicate an injurious nNOS/peroxynitrite/AMPK cycle following stroke, and GSNO treatment of IR inhibits this vicious cycle, resulting in neuroprotection and improved neurological function. GSNO is a natural component of the human body, and its exogenous administration to humans is not associated with any known side effects. Currently, the FDA-approved thrombolytic therapy suffers from a lack of neuronal protective activity. Because GSNO provides neuroprotection by ameliorating stroke's initial and causative injuries, it is a candidate of translational value for stroke therapy.

Increased ICP promotes CaMKII-mediated phosphorylation of neuronal NOS at Ser⁸⁴⁷ in the hippocampus immediately after subarachnoid hemorrhage

Early brain injury has recently been identified as an indicator of poor prognosis after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) has been shown to phosphorylate neuronal NOS (nNOS) at Ser(847), resulting in a reduction in nNOS activity. In this study, we revealed chronological changes in the phosphorylation of nNOS at Ser(847) in the hippocampus and cortex immediately after SAH. In a rat single-hemorrhage model of SAH, the hippocampus and adjacent cortex were collected up to 24h after SAH. Samples from rats that were not injected with blood were used as controls. NOS was partially purified from the crude samples using ADP-agarose affinity chromatography. Western blot analysis revealed that nNOS phosphorylated (p-nNOS) at Ser(847) was significantly increased in the hippocampus, but not in the cortex, at 1h after SAH compared with that resulting from the control treatment. Immunoreactivity of p-nNOS at Ser(847) was observed in interneurons of the hippocampus at 1h after SAH. Injection of saline instead of blood also significantly induced p-nNOS at Ser(847) levels in the hippocampus at 1h after injection. The colocalization of CaMKIIα and nNOS was transiently increased in the hippocampus at 0.5h after SAH. Our data suggest that immediately after SAH, an increase in intracranial pressure might induce transient cerebral ischemia, potentially promoting the phosphorylation of nNOS at Ser(847) by CaMKIIα in the hippocampus. The activation of p-nNOS at Ser(847) in the hippocampus may alleviate ischemic insults immediately after SAH to exert a neuroprotective effect against early brain injury.

Oxidative stress induces phosphorylation of neuronal NOS in cardiomyocytes through AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) plays a critical role in regulating cardiomyocyte function. nNOS was reported to decrease superoxide production in the myocardium by inhibiting the function of xanthine oxidoreductase. However, the effect of oxidative stress on nNOS in cardiomyocytes has not been determined. We report here that brief exposure of HL-1 cardiomyocytes to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induces phosphorylation of nNOS at serine 1412. This increase in phosphorylation was concomitant with increased nitric oxide (NO) production. Prolonged exposure to the oxidant, however, resulted in decreased expression of the protein. H2O2 treatment for short periods also stimulated phosphorylation of AKT and AMPK. H2O2-induced phosphorylation of nNOS was reduced when AMPK activity was inhibited by compound C, suggesting that AMPK is a mediator of oxidative stress-induced phosphorylation of nNOS. However, inhibition of AKT activity by the pan AKT inhibitor, AKTi, had no effect on nNOS phosphorylation caused by H2O2. These data demonstrate the novel regulation of nNOS phosphorylation and expression by oxidative stress.

Redox signal regulation via nNOS phosphorylation at Ser847 in PC12 cells and rat cerebellar granule neurons

Phosphorylation is considered a main mechanism modulating nNOS (neuronal nitric oxide synthase) function to reduce NO production. In the present study, the effects of nNOS phosphorylation on redox signalling, including that of NO, ROS (reactive oxygen species), and 8-nitro-cGMP (8-nitroguanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate), a downstream messenger of redox signalling, were investigated. In vitro experiments revealed that a phosphorylation-mimic mutant of nNOS (Ser847 replaced with aspartic acid, 847D) increased uncoupling to produce a superoxide. In addition, nicotine, which triggers an influx of Ca2+, induced more ROS and 8-nitro-cGMP production in 847D-expressing PC12 cells than WT (wild-type)-expressing cells. Additionally, nicotine-induced phosphorylation of nNOS at Ser847 and increased ROS and 8-nitro-cGMP production in rat CGNs (cerebellar granule neurons). In CGNs, the NOS (nitric oxide synthase) inhibitor L-NAME (NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester) and superoxide dismutase completely inhibited ROS and 8-nitro-cGMP production, whereas the CaMK (Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase) inhibitor KN93 mildly reduced this effect. Nicotine induced HO-1 (haem oxygenase 1) expression in CGNs and showed cytoprotective effects against apoptosis. Moreover, 8-nitro-cGMP treatment showed identical effects that were attenuated by KN93 pre-treatment. The present paper provides the first substantial corroboration for the biological effects of nNOS phosphorylation at Ser847 on redox signalling, including ROS and intracellular 8-nitro-cGMP generation in neurons, which possibly play roles in neuroprotection.

Exogenous nitric oxide negatively regulates the S-nitrosylation p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation during cerebral ischaemia and reperfusion

AIMS

A number of studies have suggested that nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in the reactive phosphorylation of p38MAPKα (p38). However, whether S-nitrosylation of p38 is activated by NO and the details remain unclear. The aim of the present work was to assess the activation of p38, the S-nitrosylation site and the p38 signalling pathway in rat hippocampus and in HEK293 cell induced by exogenous NO.

METHODS

Primary hippocampal cultures, HEK293 cells and rat model of cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion (brain ischaemia was induced by four-vessel occlusion procedure) were used in this study. Biotin-switch method and immunoblotting were performed to study the S-nitrosylation and phosphorylation of p38, and neuronal loss was observed by histology.

RESULTS

Endogenous NO increased p38 phosphorylation and S-nitrosylation, and the activation of p38 was dependent on the S-nitrosylation of Cys-211, which was critical for the NO-mediated activation of p38. The exogenous NO donor sodium nitroprusside, S-nitrosoglutathione, 7-nitroindazole, the inhibitor of the neuronal nitric oxide synthase, inhibited the activation of p38 signal pathway induced by cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion and attenuated the damage in rat hippocampal neurones. Moreover, the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is probably involved in the p38 activation process of S-nitrosylation and phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

Endogenous NO induces the S-nitrosylation and phosphorylation of p38 and mediates p38 signalling pathway by NMDAR, and as exogenous NO inhibits this process and is neuroprotective in rat cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion, it may make a contribution to stroke therapy.

Phosphorylation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase at Ser1412 in the dentate gyrus of rat brain after transient forebrain ischemia

We previously demonstrated that calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα (CaM-KIIα) phosphorylates nNOS at Ser(847) in the hippocampus after forebrain ischemia; this phosphorylation attenuates NOS activity and might contribute to resistance to post-ischemic damage. We also revealed that cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) could phosphorylate nNOS at Ser(1412)in vitro. In this study, we focused on chronological and topographical changes in the phosphorylation of nNOS at Ser(1412) after rat forebrain ischemia. The hippocampus and adjacent cortex were collected at different times, up to 24h, after 15min of forebrain ischemia. NOS was partially purified from crude samples using ADP agarose gel. Neuronal NOS, phosphorylated (p)-nNOS at Ser(1412), PKA, and p-PKA at Thr(197) were studied in the rat hippocampus and cortex using Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Western blot analysis revealed that p-nNOS at Ser(1412) significantly increased between 1 and 6h after reperfusion in the hippocampus, but not in the cortex. PKA was cosedimented with nNOS by ADP agarose gel. Immunohistochemistry revealed that phosphorylation of nNOS at Ser(1412) and PKA at Thr(197) occurred in the subgranular layer of the dentate gyrus. Forebrain ischemia might thereby induce temporary activation of PKA at Thr(197), which then phosphorylates nNOS at Ser(1412) in the subgranular layer of the dentate gyrus.