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Cao J, Chen H, Zhang Y, Kang Y, Zhou S, Liao Z, Gao L, Yin J, Jing Y. Androgen deprivation exacerbates AD pathology by promoting the loss of microglia in an age-dependent manner. Life Sci 2024; 355:122973. [PMID: 39142510 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122973] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Microglial cells are integral to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The observed sex disparity in AD prevalence, with a notable predominance in women, implies a potential influence of sex hormones, such as androgens, on disease mechanisms. Despite this, the specific effects of androgens on microglia remain unclear. This study is designed to delineate the interplay between androgens and the survival and inflammatory profile of microglial cells, as well as to explore their contribution to the progression of AD. METHODS AND KEY FINDINGS To create a chronic androgen deficiency model, 3-month-old wild-type (WT) mice and APP/PS1 mice underwent bilateral orchiectomy (ORX), with age-matched sham-operated controls. Cognitive and memory were evaluated at 5 and 12 months, paralleled by assessments of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and microglial morphology in hippocampal and cortical areas. The ORX treatment in mice resulted in diminished microglial populations and morphological alterations, alongside an increase in Aβ plaques and a concomitant decline in cognitive performance that exacerbated over time. In vitro, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was found to stimulate microglial proliferation and ameliorate Aβ1-42-induced apoptosis. SIGNIFICANCE These findings suggested that androgens may exert a protective role, maintaining the normal proliferation and functionality of microglial cells. This preservation could potentially slow the progression of AD. As a result, our study provided a conceptual framework for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Cao
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Haichao Chen
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yishu Zhang
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiting Kang
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Siwei Zhou
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zirui Liao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Gao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Yin
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhong Jing
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
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Zuo X, Bai HJ, Zhao QL, Zhang SH, Zhao X, Feng XZ. 17β-Trenbolone Exposure Enhances Muscle Activity and Exacerbates Parkinson's Disease Progression in Male Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04455-3. [PMID: 39222261 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04455-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) ranks as the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, and while the neuroprotective effects of estrogen are well-documented, the impact of androgens on neurological disorders remains understudied. The consequences of exposure to 17-trenbolone (17-TB), an environmental endocrine disruptor with androgen-like properties, on the mammalian nervous system have received limited attention. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the biological effects of 17-TB exposure on PD. In our investigation using the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD mouse model, we discovered that 17-TB exposure elevated testosterone hormone levels prevented androgen receptor (AR) reduction, upregulated the expression of muscular dystrophic factors (Atrogin1, MuRF1, Musa1, and Myostatin), improved muscle strength, and enhanced locomotor activity in the open field test. However, it is noteworthy that exposure to 17-TB also led to an upregulation of neuroinflammatory cytokines (NLRP3, IL-6, IL-1α, and IL-1β) in PD mice. Crucially, 17-TB exposure induced downregulation of nigral apoptotic proteins DJ-1 and Bcl-2 while upregulating Bax and Caspase-3 in PD mice. This exacerbated neuronal apoptosis, ultimately intensifying dopaminergic neuronal degeneration and death in the substantia nigra and striatum of PD mice. In conclusion, our findings indicate that while 17-TB mitigates muscle atrophy and enhances motor activity in PD mice, it concurrently exacerbates neuroinflammation, induces neuronal apoptosis, and worsens dopaminergic neuronal death, thereby aggravating the progression of MPTP-induced Parkinsonism. This underscores the importance of considering potential environmental risks in neurodegeneration associated with Parkinson's disease, providing a cautionary tale for our daily exposure to environmental endocrine chemical disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zuo
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Hui-Juan Bai
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Qi-Li Zhao
- Institute of Robotics & Automatic Information System, College of Artificial Intelligence, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Shu-Hui Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Institute of Robotics & Automatic Information System, College of Artificial Intelligence, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Xi-Zeng Feng
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Sun J, Ou Y, Liu X, Sun H, Guo Z, Qi F, Lan Y, Liu W, Sun W. LC-MS-based urine metabolomics analysis of chronic subdural hematoma for biomarker discovery. Proteomics Clin Appl 2024; 18:e2200107. [PMID: 37697649 DOI: 10.1002/prca.202200107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is one of the most common neurosurgical diseases with atypical manifestations. The aim of this study was to utilize urine metabolomics to explore potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of CSDH. METHODS Seventy-seven healthy controls and ninety-two patients with CSDH were enrolled in our study. In total, 261 urine samples divided into the discovery group and validation group were analyzed by LC-MS. The statistical analysis and functional annotation were applied to discover potential biomarker panels and altered metabolic pathways. RESULTS A total of 53 differential metabolites were identified in this study. And the urinary metabolic profiles showed apparent separation between patients and controls. Further functional annotation showed that the differential metabolites were associated with lipid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, biotin metabolism, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and pentose and glucuronate interconversions. Moreover, one panel of Capryloylglycine, cis-5-Octenoic acid, Ethisterone, and 5,6-DiHETE showed good predictive performance in the diagnosis of CSDH, with an AUC of 0.89 in discovery group and an AUC of 0.822 in validation group. Another five metabolites (Trilobinol, 3'-Hydroxyropivacaine, Ethisterone, Arginyl-Proline, 5-alpha-Dihydrotestosterone glucuronide) showed the levels of them returned to a healthy state after surgery, showing good possibility to monitor the recovery of CSDH patients. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The findings of the study revealed urine metabolomic differences between CSDH and controls. The potentially diagnostic and prognostic biomarker panels of urine metabolites were established, and functional analysis demonstrated deeper metabolic disorders of CSDH, which might conduce to improve early diagnose of CSDH clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiameng Sun
- Core Instrument Facility, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yunwei Ou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- Core Instrument Facility, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Haidan Sun
- Core Instrument Facility, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengguang Guo
- Core Instrument Facility, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Qi
- Core Instrument Facility, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weiming Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Core Instrument Facility, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Evidences for Mutant Huntingtin Inducing Musculoskeletal and Brain Growth Impairments via Disturbing Testosterone Biosynthesis in Male Huntington Disease Animals. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233779. [PMID: 36497038 PMCID: PMC9737670 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Body weight (BW) loss and reduced body mass index (BMI) are the most common peripheral alterations in Huntington disease (HD) and have been found in HD mutation carriers and HD animal models before the manifestation of neurological symptoms. This suggests that, at least in the early disease stage, these changes could be due to abnormal tissue growth rather than tissue atrophy. Moreover, BW and BMI are reported to be more affected in males than females in HD animal models and patients. Here, we confirmed sex-dependent growth alterations in the BACHD rat model for HD and investigated the associated contributing factors. Our results showed growth abnormalities along with decreased plasma testosterone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels only in males. Moreover, we demonstrated correlations between growth parameters, IGF-1, and testosterone. Our analyses further revealed an aberrant transcription of testosterone biosynthesis-related genes in the testes of BACHD rats with undisturbed luteinizing hormone (LH)/cAMP/PKA signaling, which plays a key role in regulating the transcription process of some of these genes. In line with the findings in BACHD rats, analyses in the R6/2 mouse model of HD showed similar results. Our findings support the view that mutant huntingtin may induce abnormal growth in males via the dysregulation of gene transcription in the testis, which in turn can affect testosterone biosynthesis.
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Melo JEC, Santos TFO, Santos RS, Franco HS, Monteiro MCN, Bispo JMM, Mendonça MS, Ribeiro AM, Silva RH, Gois AM, Marchioro M, Lins LCRF, Santos JR. Aging accentuates decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity associated with the increase in the motor impairment in a model of reserpine-induced parkinsonism. J Chem Neuroanat 2022; 125:102162. [PMID: 36115503 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive dopaminergic neuron loss. Animal models have been used to develop a better understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms of PD. However, these models are usually conducted with young animals diverging of the age of PD patients, suggesting a bias in translational science. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the age on rats in a progressive parkinsonism model induced by reserpine (RES). Adult (6 - 8 month-old) or elderly (18 - 24 month-old) male rats were assigned to six groups: control-elderly (CTL-ELDERLY), reserpine-elderly (RES-ELDERLY), reserpine-elderly withdrawal (RES-ELDERLY WITHDRAWAL), control-adult (CTL-ADULT), reserpine-adult (RES-ADULT), and reserpine-adult withdrawal (RES-ADULT WITHDRAWAL). Animals received 15 injections every other day of RES (0.1 mg / kg) or vehicle during 30 days. Throughout treatment, animals were evaluated in the catalepsy test (every 48 h) and open field test (24 h after the second injection), and weight assessment (every 4 days) was also made. Upon completion of behavioral tests, rat brains were collected for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunohistochemical analysis. Main results demonstrated that RES-treated animals spent more time in the catalepsy bar compared with control groups, moreover the RES-elderly group showed a longer catalepsy time compared with the RES-ADULT group. A shorter time from RES treatment to the development of symptoms was observed in the RES-ADULT group, compared with the RES-ELDERLY group. In addition, RES-induced weight loss in both RES-ELDERLY and RES-ADULT when compared with their corresponding controls. Cessation of RES treatment was followed by weight gain only in the RES-ADULT group. A significant decrease in TH-immunoreactive cells was observed in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and dorsal striatum (STR) in the rats in both the RES-ADULT and RES-ELDERLY groups and in the ventral tegmental area in rats in the RES-ADULT group. Furthermore, TH immunoreactivity decrease was not reversible in SNpc and STR in the RES-ELDERLY. These results show that RES has an age-dependent effect in rats, suggesting a greater sensitivity of the dopaminergic pathway to RES with advancing age. These suggest that the RES rat model of parkinsonism can be useful in improving our knowledge on the effect of aging on neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- João E C Melo
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | - Thassya F O Santos
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo S Santos
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | - Heitor S Franco
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | - Milena C N Monteiro
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | - José M M Bispo
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | - Mylaine S Mendonça
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | | | - Regina H Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Auderlan M Gois
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil
| | - Murilo Marchioro
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - Lívia C R F Lins
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão, SE, Brazil
| | - José R Santos
- Behavioral and Evolutionary Neurobiology Laboratory Department of Biosciences, Federal University of Sergipe, Itabaiana, SE, Brazil; Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Santos, SP, Brazil.
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Хамадьянова АУ, Кузнецов КО, Гайфуллина ЭИ, Каландин ДА, Хамидуллина РР, Халитова ИФ, Фаизов РМ, Камалетдинова НО, Асланова БФ, Накиева АГ, Бурангулова ЛЭ, Гайсина ГО. [Androgens and Parkinson's disease: the role in humans and in experiment]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2022; 68:146-156. [PMID: 36689720 PMCID: PMC9939975 DOI: 10.14341/probl13148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's disease. There is evidence that PD has a wider prevalence among men, which indicates the existing role of sex hormones in the pathogenesis of the disease. The article presents an overview of studies devoted to the study of sex differences in the incidence and symptoms of PD. Drug therapy with androgens, androgen precursors, antiandrogens and drugs that modify androgen metabolism is available for the treatment of various endocrine conditions, having translational significance for PD, but none of these drugs has yet shown sufficient effectiveness. Although PD has now been proven to be more common in men than in women, androgens do not always have any effect on the symptoms or progression of the disease. 5α-reductase inhibitors have shown neuroprotective and anti-dyskinetic activity and need further investigation. Despite the fact that the neuroprotective effect of dutasteride was observed only before damage to DA neurons, the absence of a negative effect makes it an attractive drug for use in patients with PD due to its anti-dyskinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Д. А. Каландин
- Первый Санкт-Петербургский государственный медицинский университет им. акад. И.П. Павлова
| | | | | | - Р. М. Фаизов
- Башкирский государственный медицинский университет
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Gonadal hormone trigger the dynamic microglial alterations through Traf6/TAK1 axis that correlate with depressive behaviors. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 152:128-138. [PMID: 35724494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Gonadal hormone deficiency is associated with the development of depression, but what mediates this association is unclear. To test the possibility that it reflects neuroimmune and neuroinflammatory processes, we analyzed how gonadal hormone deficiency and replacement affect microglial activation and inflammatory response during the development of depressive symptomatology in gonadectomized male mice. Testosterone level and the ratio of testosterone to estradiol in the serum and brain tissue of mice exposed to 3-35 days of chronic unpredictable stress were much lower than in control animals. Gonadal hormone sustained deficiency in gonadectomized mice and subsequent led to acute inflammation at day 7 following castration. Activating microglia in mice exposed to 7 days of castration subsequently suppressed the proliferation of microglia, such that their numbers in hippocampus and cortex were lower than the numbers in sham-operated mice after 30 days of castration. Here, we showed that gonadal hormone deficiency induces Traf6-mediated microglia activation, a type of inflammatory mediator. Microglia treated in this way for long time showed down-regulation of activation markers, abnormal morphology and depressive-like behaviors. Restoration and maintenance of a fixed ratio of testosterone to estradiol significantly suppressed microglial activation, neuronal necroptosis, dramatically inducing hippocampal neurogenesis and reducing depressive behaviors via the suppression of Traf6/TAK1 pathway. These findings suggest that activated or immunoreactive microglia contribute to gonadal hormone deficiency-induced depression, as well as testosterone and estradiol exert synergistic anti-depressant effects via suppressing microglial activaton in gonadectomized male mice, possibly through Traf6 signaling.
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The association between Parkinson's disease and Sexual dysfunction: Clinical correlation and therapeutic implications. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 79:101665. [PMID: 35690383 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sexual function which comprises of desire, arousal, orgasm and satisfaction and pain, involves coordinated physiologic responses from multiple different pathways. Sexual dysfunction (SD) occurs when these domains of the sexual response cycle are affected. SD is a common but under-recognized non-motor feature in Parkinson's disease (PD), a common age-related neurodegenerative disorder. SD significantly affects the quality of life of PD patients and their partners. Advanced age, gender, hormone deficiency, neuropsychiatric and medical comorbidities contribute to SD in PD. Possible potential pathological mechanisms include vasculogenic, endocrinologic, neurogenic and psychogenic factors. Various therapeutic interventions, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological modalities have been suggested to improve SD in PD. However, erectile dysfunction (ED) is the only SD with evidence-based treatment available. Non-pharmacological therapies are also offering promising evidence in the improvement of SD. A multidisciplinary approach in the assessment, investigation, and treatment is needed to address the real life complex issues (gender and comorbidities, neurobiological, vasoactive, hormonal as well as psychosocial aspects). Future clinical studies with validated and standardized methods in assessing SD as well as experimental models will be necessary for better insight into the pathophysiology. This would facilitate appropriate therapy and improve sexual rehabilitation in PD patients.
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Bourque M, Soulet D, Di Paolo T. Androgens and Parkinson's Disease: A Review of Human Studies and Animal Models. ANDROGENS: CLINICAL RESEARCH AND THERAPEUTICS 2022; 2:294-303. [PMID: 35024696 PMCID: PMC8744006 DOI: 10.1089/andro.2021.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's disease. A greater prevalence and incidence of PD are reported in men than in women, suggesting a potential contribution of sex, genetic difference and/or sex hormones. This review presents an overview of epidemiological and clinical studies investigating sex differences in the incidence and symptoms of PD. This sex difference is replicated in animal models of PD showing an important neuroprotective role of sex steroids. Therefore, although gender and genetic factors likely contribute to the sex difference in PD, focus here will be on sex hormones because of their neuroprotective role. Androgens receive less attention than estrogen. It is well known that endogenous androgens are more abundant in healthy men than in women and decrease with aging; lower levels are reported in PD men than in healthy male subjects. Drug treatments with androgens, androgen precursors, antiandrogens, and drugs modifying androgen metabolism are available to treat various endocrine conditions, thus having translational value for PD but none have yet given sufficient positive effects for PD. Variability in the androgen receptor is reported in humans and is an additional factor in the response to androgens. In animal models of PD used to study neuroprotective activity, the androgens testosterone and dihydrotestosterone have given inconsistent results. 5α-Reductase inhibitors have shown neuroprotective activity in animal models of PD and antidyskinetic activity. Hence, androgens have not consistently shown beneficial or deleterious effects in PD but numerous androgen-related drugs are available that could be repurposed for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, Québec, Canada
| | - Denis Soulet
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, Québec, Canada.,Faculté de pharmacie, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Axe Neurosciences, Québec, Canada.,Faculté de pharmacie, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Hu D, Cui Y, Zhang J. Nervonic Acid Ameliorates Motor Disorder in Mice with Parkinson’s Disease. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421030065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Morgans AK, Renzulli J, Olivier K, Shore ND. Risk of Cognitive Effects in Comorbid Patients With Prostate Cancer Treated With Androgen Receptor Inhibitors. Clin Genitourin Cancer 2021; 19:467.e1-467.e11. [PMID: 33893042 DOI: 10.1016/j.clgc.2021.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC) is primarily a disease of older men. As the risk of neurocognitive decline increases as people age, cognitive dysfunction is a potential complication in men with PC, imposing detrimental effects on functional independence and quality of life. Importantly, risk of cognitive decline may increase with exposure to androgen deprivation therapy and other hormonal therapies. Particular consideration should be given to patients with castration-resistant PC (CRPC), many of whom require continuous, long-term androgen deprivation therapy combined with a second-generation androgen receptor inhibitor. Non-comparative evidence from interventional trials of androgen receptor inhibitors in men with non-metastatic CRPC suggests differential effects on cognitive function and central nervous system-related adverse events within this drug class. Drug-drug interactions with concomitant medications for chronic, non-malignant comorbidities differ among ARIs and thus may contribute further to cognitive impairment. Hence, establishing baseline cognitive function is a prerequisite to identifying subsequent clinical decline associated with androgen receptor-targeted therapies. Although brief, sensitive screening tools for cancer-related cognitive dysfunction are lacking, mental status can be ascertained from the initial medical history and neurocognitive examination, progressing to more in-depth evaluation when impairment is suspected. On-treatment neurocognitive monitoring should be integrated into regular clinical follow-up to preserve cognitive function and quality of life throughout disease management. This review summarizes the multiple factors that may contribute to cognitive decline in men with CRPC, awareness of which will assist clinicians to optimize individual treatment. Practical, clinic-based strategies for managing the risks for and symptoms of cognitive dysfunction are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia K Morgans
- Department of Medicine (Hematology and Oncology), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.
| | - Joseph Renzulli
- Department of Urology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Kara Olivier
- Department of Medical Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Neal D Shore
- Department of Urology, Carolina Urologic Research Center, Atlantic Urology Clinics, Myrtle Beach, SC
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Hu D, Cui Y, Zhang J. Nervonic acid amends motor disorder in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Transl Neurosci 2021; 12:237-246. [PMID: 34055392 PMCID: PMC8149914 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2020-0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Parkinson's disease (PD) is a kind of common neurodegenerative disease in the world. Previous studies have proved that nervonic acid (NA), extracted from Xanthoceras sorbifolia Bunge, has the potentials of neuroprotection. However, the effect of NA on the PD remained unknown. This study was designed to investigate the NA's potential function and relative mechanism on motor disorder. METHODS 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) was used for producing parkinsonism motor disorder on male C57BL/6 mice. Toxicity experiments and behavioral assay were performed to evaluate the effect of NA. Besides, the expression levels of tyrosine hydroxylase and α-synuclein, as well as striatal dopamine (DA), serotonin, and their metabolites were explored through immunoblotting and chromatography after NA treatment in vivo. RESULTS We found that NA could alleviate the MPTP-induced behavioral deficits dose-dependently. Moreover, NA has no toxic effects on the mouse liver and kidney. Of note, we found that NA significantly reduced the impact of MPTP impairment and striatal DA, serotonin, and metabolites were remained unaffected. In addition, tyrosine hydroxylase was upregulated while α-synuclein being downregulated and the oxidative stress was partially repressed evidenced by the upregulation of superoxide dismutase and glutathione activity after NA treatment. CONCLUSION Our findings unveil NA's potential for protecting motor system against motor disorder in the PD mouse model without any side effects, indicating NA as an alternative strategy for PD symptom remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandong Hu
- School of Life Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730070, People’s Republic of China
- Beijing Yanqing District Food and Drug Safety Monitoring Center, Beijing Yanqing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control, Beijing, 102100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yujuan Cui
- School of Life Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730070, People’s Republic of China
- Beijing Yanqing District Food and Drug Safety Monitoring Center, Beijing Yanqing Center for Diseases Prevention and Control, Beijing, 102100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ji Zhang
- School of Life Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730070, People’s Republic of China
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13
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Zhang X, Zhao H, Horney J, Johnson N, Saad F, Haider KS, Haider A, Xu X. Recent testosterone drop-off and risk of cardiovascular events. Aging Male 2020; 23:1611-1619. [PMID: 33724145 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2021.1896700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Low baseline testosterone level has been associated with the development of risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as insulin resistance and obesity. In addition to the absolute testosterone level, remarkable changes in testosterone level may have an acute effect on cardiovascular disease development and progression, which has been rarely investigated. In this study, we used a clinical dataset of 376 hypogonadal men whose testosterone levels were measured every six months for up to 11 years from a registry study in Germany, and conducted survival analyses to investigate the effect of testosterone changes since the last visit (time-varying) on the risk of cardiovascular events. Given the potential discrepancies in comorbidity conditions among patients with prior cardiovascular events and those without, all the analyses were stratified by patients' prior cardiovascular event status. We found the effects were not different among patients with prior cardiovascular events and those without. Regardless of patients' prior cardiovascular event status, patients with larger testosterone declines (≥3.12 nmol/L, 90th percentile) since the last visit were more likely to experience myocardial infarction. In conclusion, recent pronounced testosterone drop-offs may affect the risk of cardiovascular events among hypogonadal men. Future longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our exploratory study findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Hongwei Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Jennifer Horney
- College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Natalie Johnson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Farid Saad
- Research Department, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
| | | | | | - Xiaohui Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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14
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Bianchi VE, Rizzi L, Bresciani E, Omeljaniuk RJ, Torsello A. Androgen Therapy in Neurodegenerative Diseases. J Endocr Soc 2020; 4:bvaa120. [PMID: 33094209 PMCID: PMC7568521 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer disease (AD), Parkinson disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington disease, are characterized by the loss of neurons as well as neuronal function in multiple regions of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Several studies in animal models have shown that androgens have neuroprotective effects in the brain and stimulate axonal regeneration. The presence of neuronal androgen receptors in the peripheral and central nervous system suggests that androgen therapy might be useful in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. To illustrate, androgen therapy reduced inflammation, amyloid-β deposition, and cognitive impairment in patients with AD. As well, improvements in remyelination in MS have been reported; by comparison, only variable results are observed in androgen treatment of PD. In ALS, androgen administration stimulated motoneuron recovery from progressive damage and regenerated both axons and dendrites. Only a few clinical studies are available in human individuals despite the safety and low cost of androgen therapy. Clinical evaluations of the effects of androgen therapy on these devastating diseases using large populations of patients are strongly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Emanuele Bianchi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Clinical Center Stella Maris, Strada Rovereta, Falciano, San Marino
| | - Laura Rizzi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Elena Bresciani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Torsello
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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15
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Vegeto E, Villa A, Della Torre S, Crippa V, Rusmini P, Cristofani R, Galbiati M, Maggi A, Poletti A. The Role of Sex and Sex Hormones in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5572525. [PMID: 31544208 PMCID: PMC7156855 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnz005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a wide class of disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) with unknown etiology. Several factors were hypothesized to be involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases, including genetic and environmental factors. Many of these diseases show a sex prevalence and sex steroids were shown to have a role in the progression of specific forms of neurodegeneration. Estrogens were reported to be neuroprotective through their action on cognate nuclear and membrane receptors, while adverse effects of male hormones have been described on neuronal cells, although some data also suggest neuroprotective activities. The response of the CNS to sex steroids is a complex and integrated process that depends on (i) the type and amount of the cognate steroid receptor and (ii) the target cell type-either neurons, glia, or microglia. Moreover, the levels of sex steroids in the CNS fluctuate due to gonadal activities and to local metabolism and synthesis. Importantly, biochemical processes involved in the pathogenesis of NDs are increasingly being recognized as different between the two sexes and as influenced by sex steroids. The aim of this review is to present current state-of-the-art understanding on the potential role of sex steroids and their receptors on the onset and progression of major neurodegenerative disorders, namely, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and the peculiar motoneuron disease spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, in which hormonal therapy is potentially useful as disease modifier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Vegeto
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche (DiSFarm), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Villa
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute (DiSS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Della Torre
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche (DiSFarm), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Valeria Crippa
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Rusmini
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Riccardo Cristofani
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Mariarita Galbiati
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Adriana Maggi
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche (DiSFarm), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Angelo Poletti
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy.,Dipartimento di Eccellenza di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari (DiSFeB), Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
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16
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Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Falvo E, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. Physiopathological role of the enzymatic complex 5α-reductase and 3α/β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase in the generation of progesterone and testosterone neuroactive metabolites. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 57:100836. [PMID: 32217094 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The enzymatic complex 5α-reductase (5α-R) and 3α/3β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase (HSOR) is expressed in the nervous system, where it transforms progesterone (PROG) and testosterone (T) into neuroactive metabolites. These metabolites regulate myelination, brain maturation, neurotransmission, reproductive behavior and the stress response. The expression of 5α-R and 3α-HSOR and the levels of PROG and T reduced metabolites show regional and sex differences in the nervous system and are affected by changing physiological conditions as well as by neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. A decrease in their nervous tissue levels may negatively impact the course and outcome of some pathological events. However, in other pathological conditions their increased levels may have a negative impact. Thus, the use of synthetic analogues of these steroids or 5α-R modulation have been proposed as therapeutic approaches for several nervous system pathologies. However, further research is needed to fully understand the consequences of these manipulations, in particular with 5α-R inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eva Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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17
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Rahman MM, Chakraborti RR, Potol MA, Abir AH, Sharmin O, Alam M, Khan MFR, Afrin R, Jannat H, Wadud R, Habib ZF. Epalrestat improves motor symptoms by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the reserpine induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Animal Model Exp Med 2020; 3:9-21. [PMID: 32318655 PMCID: PMC7167235 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting a large number of elderly people worldwide. The current therapies for PD are symptom-based; they do not provide a cure but improve the quality of life. Muscular dysfunction is the hallmark clinical feature of PD and oxidative stress and inflammation play a critical role in its pathogenesis. Epalrestat is used for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy and is known to improve antioxidative defense mechanisms in the CNS. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the role of Epalrestat in the reserpine induced mouse model of PD. METHOD We used Swiss Albino mice for the PD model and tested for akinesia/bradykinesia, muscular rigidity, palpebral ptosis, and tremor, as well as conducting swim and open field tests. Brain samples were used to determine oxidative stress parameters and infiltration of immune cells. RESULTS Epalrestat treatment significantly improved akinesia and bradykinesia, muscular dysfunctions, tremor level, and gait functions compared to the reserpine group. It also improved the latency in the swim test. Eplarestat significantly reduced lipid peroxidation and NO concentration in different brain tissues and increased the activity of antioxidative enzymes, glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase. Furthermore, Epalrestat reduced neuroinflammation by reducing the number of infiltrating immune cells. CONCLUSION Eplarestat improves muscular dysfunction in PD by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mahbubur Rahman
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Rupali Rani Chakraborti
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Md. Abdullah Potol
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Ariful Haque Abir
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Ozayra Sharmin
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Mahabub Alam
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Md. Fazlur Rahman Khan
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Rownock Afrin
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Humayra Jannat
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Rasiqh Wadud
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Zaki Farhad Habib
- Laboratory of PharmacologyDepartment of Pharmaceutical SciencesSchool of Health & Life SciencesNorth South UniversityDhakaBangladesh
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18
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Yang L, Zhou R, Tong Y, Chen P, Shen Y, Miao S, Liu X. Neuroprotection by dihydrotestosterone in LPS-induced neuroinflammation. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 140:104814. [PMID: 32087283 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.104814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia-induced neuroinflammation plays a vital role in the etiology and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. The neuroprotective role of androgens, including testosterone and its metabolite dihydrotestosterone (DHT), has been increasingly demonstrated in these diseases, but few studies investigated the effects of androgen on neuroinflammation. This study investigated the role of DHT in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation, neuronal damage and behavioral dysfunction, as well as underlying mechanisms. We showed that DHT inhibited LPS-induced release of proinflammatory factors, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6; iNOS, COX-2, NO, and PGE2 in BV2 cells and primary microglia by suppressing the TLR4-mediated NF-κB and MAPK p38 signaling pathways, thus protecting SH-SY5Y neurons from inflammatory damage induced by activated microglia. In an LPS-induced neuroinflammation mouse model, endogenous DHT depletion by castration exacerbated inflammatory responses by upregulating the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, iNOS, and COX-2 in the serum and brain by increasing the LR4-mediated NF-κB and MAPK pathway activation, but these effects were restored by exogenous DHT supplementation. Moreover, DHT also regulated the mRNA levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and IL-13 in the brain. In addition, DHT modulated the expression of Aβ, the apoptotic proteins caspase-3, Bcl-2, and Bax, and synaptophysin, as well as neuronal damage in LPS-treated mouse brains. Further behavioral tests revealed that DHT ameliorated LPS-induced spatial and learning impairment and motor incoordination, and partly improved the locomotor activity in LPS-injected mice. Therefore, this study suggests that DHT exerts anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effects; thus, androgen replacement therapy is a potential therapeutic strategy for improving cognitive and behavioral function in neuroinflammation-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yang
- Department of Urology, Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Renyuan Zhou
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University 300070 Tianjin, China; Department of Urology, Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yu Tong
- Department of Urology, Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Pengfei Chen
- Department of Urology, Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Yu Shen
- Department of Urology, Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Shuai Miao
- Department of Urology, Jing'an District Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Medical University 300070 Tianjin, China.
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19
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GRK2 enforces androgen receptor dependence in the prostate and prostate tumors. Oncogene 2020; 39:2424-2436. [PMID: 31959897 PMCID: PMC7072002 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-1159-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic tumors that have become resistant to androgen deprivation therapy represent the major challenge in treating prostate cancer. Although these recurrent tumors typically remain dependent on the androgen receptor (AR), non-AR-driven tumors that also emerge are particularly deadly and becoming more prevalent. Here, we present a new genetically engineered mouse model for non-AR-driven prostate cancer that centers on a negative regulator of G protein-coupled receptors that is downregulated in aggressive human prostate tumors. Thus, prostate-specific expression of a dominant-negative G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2-DN) transgene diminishes AR and AR target gene expression in the prostate, and confers resistance to castration-induced involution. Further, the GRK2-DN transgene dramatically accelerates oncogene-initiated prostate tumorigenesis by increasing primary tumor size, potentiating visceral organ metastasis, suppressing AR, and inducing neuroendocrine marker mRNAs. In summary, GRK2 enforces AR-dependence in the prostate, and the loss of GRK2 function in prostate tumors accelerates disease progression towards the deadliest stage.
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20
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Giatti S, Diviccaro S, Serafini MM, Caruso D, Garcia-Segura LM, Viviani B, Melcangi RC. Sex differences in steroid levels and steroidogenesis in the nervous system: Physiopathological role. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 56:100804. [PMID: 31689419 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system, in addition to be a target for steroid hormones, is the source of a variety of neuroactive steroids, which are synthesized and metabolized by neurons and glial cells. Recent evidence indicates that the expression of neurosteroidogenic proteins and enzymes and the levels of neuroactive steroids are different in the nervous system of males and females. We here summarized the state of the art of neuroactive steroids, particularly taking in consideration sex differences occurring in the synthesis and levels of these molecules. In addition, we discuss the consequences of sex differences in neurosteroidogenesis for the function of the nervous system under healthy and pathological conditions and the implications of neuroactive steroids and neurosteroidogenesis for the development of sex-specific therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Diviccaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Melania Maria Serafini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luis Miguel Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Barbara Viviani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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21
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Woodcock EA, Zakiniaeiz Y, Morris ED, Cosgrove KP. Sex and the dopaminergic system: Insights from addiction studies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2020; 175:141-165. [PMID: 33008522 PMCID: PMC11267480 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64123-6.00011-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Sex differences are present in psychiatric disorders associated with disrupted dopamine function, and thus, sex differences in dopamine neurobiology may underlie these clinical disparities. In this chapter, we review sex differences in the dopaminergic system with a focus on substance use disorders, especially tobacco smoking, as our exemplar disorder. This chapter is organized into five sections describing sex differences in the dopaminergic system: (1) neurobiology, (2) role of sex hormones, (3) genetic underpinnings, (4) cognitive function, and (5) influence on addiction. In each section, we provide an overview of the topic area, summarize sex differences identified to date, highlight addiction research, especially clinical neuroimaging studies, and suggest avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Woodcock
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Yale Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Yasmin Zakiniaeiz
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Yale Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Evan D Morris
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Invicro, LLC, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Kelly P Cosgrove
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Yale Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.
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22
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Zhang Y, Xu W, Nan S, Chang M, Fan J. MicroRNA-326 Inhibits Apoptosis and Promotes Proliferation of Dopaminergic Neurons in Parkinson's Disease Through Suppression of KLK7-Mediated MAPK Signaling Pathway. J Mol Neurosci 2019; 69:197-214. [PMID: 31270675 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-019-01349-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD), one of the motor system disorders, is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. Accumulating evidence has highlighted the involvement of microRNAs (miRs) in the development and progression of PD. Hence, we aimed at exploring possible effects of miR-326 on the progression of PD in mice in an attempt to elucidate the underlying mechanism associated with the kallikrein-related peptidase 7 (KLK7)-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. In order to identify the regulatory relationship between miR-326 and KLK7 and its biological significance in PD, PD mouse models were established and subsequently treated with mimics or inhibitors of miR-326 or siRNA-KLK7. The content of striatal dopamine (DA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA), 3-methoxytyrosine (3-MT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and malondialdehyde (MDA); positive expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS); and the levels of IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, INF-γ, and MAPK signaling pathway-related genes were determined accordingly. The results obtained indicated that KLK7 was negatively targeted by miR-326, with lower miR-326 and higher KLK7 detected among PD mice. The overexpression of miR-326 or silencing of KLK7 was demonstrated to increase the content of DA, DOPAC, HVA, 3-MT, SOD, GSH-Px, and TH positive expression, while reducing iNOS positive expression, MDA content and cell apoptosis, as well as inhibited levels of IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, INF-γ, and mRNA and protein levels of p38, ERK, JNK, and caspase-3. Taken together, these results provided evidence suggesting that miR-326 could inhibit iNOS activation and apoptosis of dopaminergic neurons through inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway and negatively regulating KLK7 in mice with PD. These findings highlight the potential of miR-326 as a novel target for future PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, No. 218, Ziqiang Street, Nanguan District, Changchun, 130041, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, No. 218, Ziqiang Street, Nanguan District, Changchun, 130041, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanji Nan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, No. 218, Ziqiang Street, Nanguan District, Changchun, 130041, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Meiji Chang
- Department of Neurology, Changchun Central Hospital, Changchun, 130000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Fan
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, No. 218, Ziqiang Street, Nanguan District, Changchun, 130041, Jilin Province, People's Republic of China.
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Grissom EM, Hawley WR, Dohanich GP. Organizational effects of testosterone on learning strategy preference and muscarinic receptor binding in prepubertal rats. Horm Behav 2019; 110:1-9. [PMID: 30772326 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Prior to puberty, male rats, but not female rats, prefer a striatum-based stimulus-response learning strategy rather than a hippocampus-based place strategy on a water maze task that can be solved using either strategy. Neurochemically, learning strategy preference has been linked to the ratio of cholinergic muscarinic receptor binding in the hippocampus relative to the striatum, with lower ratios displayed by males compared to females and by stimulus-response learners compared to place learners. Sex differences in a variety of different behaviors are established by the organizational influence of testosterone on brain development. Therefore, the current study investigated the potential organizational effects of neonatal testosterone on learning strategy preference and the hippocampus:striatum ratio of muscarinic receptor binding in prepubertal male and female rats. Similar to vehicle-treated control males, prepubertal females treated with testosterone propionate on the first two days of life preferred a stimulus-response strategy on a dual-solution water maze task. Conversely, vehicle-treated prepubertal females were more likely to use a place strategy. Consistent with previous findings, the hippocampus:striatum ratio of muscarinic receptor binding was lower in rats preferring a stimulus-response strategy compared to those using a place strategy and lower in control males compared to control females. However, the hippocampus:striatum ratio was not reversed by neonatal testosterone treatment of females as predicted. The current study is the first to show that sex differences in how a navigational task is learned prior to puberty is impacted by the presence of testosterone during vulnerable periods in brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin M Grissom
- Loyola University New Orleans, Department of Psychological Sciences, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States of America; Tulane University, Department of Psychology, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States of America; Tulane University, Program in Neuroscience, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States of America.
| | - Wayne R Hawley
- Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Psychology Department, Edinboro, PA 16444, United States of America; Tulane University, Department of Psychology, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States of America
| | - Gary P Dohanich
- Tulane University, Department of Psychology, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States of America; Tulane University, Program in Neuroscience, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States of America
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Translocator Protein Ligand Protects against Neurodegeneration in the MPTP Mouse Model of Parkinsonism. J Neurosci 2019; 39:3752-3769. [PMID: 30796158 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2070-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, after Alzheimer's disease. Parkinson's disease is a movement disorder with characteristic motor features that arise due to the loss of dopaminergic neurons from the substantia nigra. Although symptomatic treatment by the dopamine precursor levodopa and dopamine agonists can improve motor symptoms, no disease-modifying therapy exists yet. Here, we show that Emapunil (AC-5216, XBD-173), a synthetic ligand of the translocator protein 18, ameliorates degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, preserves striatal dopamine metabolism, and prevents motor dysfunction in female mice treated with the MPTP, as a model of parkinsonism. We found that Emapunil modulates the inositol requiring kinase 1α (IRE α)/X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) unfolded protein response pathway and induces a shift from pro-inflammatory toward anti-inflammatory microglia activation. Previously, Emapunil was shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and to be safe and well tolerated in a Phase II clinical trial. Therefore, our data suggest that Emapunil may be a promising approach in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Our study reveals a beneficial effect of Emapunil on dopaminergic neuron survival, dopamine metabolism, and motor phenotype in the MPTP mouse model of parkinsonism. In addition, our work uncovers molecular networks which mediate neuroprotective effects of Emapunil, including microglial activation state and unfolded protein response pathways. These findings not only contribute to our understanding of biological mechanisms of translocator protein 18 (TSPO) function but also indicate that translocator protein 18 may be a promising therapeutic target. We thus propose to further validate Emapunil in other Parkinson's disease mouse models and subsequently in clinical trials to treat Parkinson's disease.
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Pinares-Garcia P, Stratikopoulos M, Zagato A, Loke H, Lee J. Sex: A Significant Risk Factor for Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Brain Sci 2018; 8:E154. [PMID: 30104506 PMCID: PMC6120011 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8080154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Males and females sometimes significantly differ in their propensity to develop neurological disorders. Females suffer more from mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, whereas males are more susceptible to deficits in the dopamine system including Parkinson's disease (PD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism. Despite this, biological sex is rarely considered when making treatment decisions in neurological disorders. A better understanding of the molecular mechanism(s) underlying sex differences in the healthy and diseased brain will help to devise diagnostic and therapeutic strategies optimal for each sex. Thus, the aim of this review is to discuss the available evidence on sex differences in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders regarding prevalence, progression, symptoms and response to therapy. We also discuss the sex-related factors such as gonadal sex hormones and sex chromosome genes and how these might help to explain some of the clinically observed sex differences in these disorders. In particular, we highlight the emerging role of the Y-chromosome gene, SRY, in the male brain and its potential role as a male-specific risk factor for disorders such as PD, autism, and ADHD in many individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Pinares-Garcia
- Brain and Gender laboratory, Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
| | - Marielle Stratikopoulos
- Brain and Gender laboratory, Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
| | - Alice Zagato
- Brain and Gender laboratory, Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia.
| | - Hannah Loke
- Brain and Gender laboratory, Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
| | - Joohyung Lee
- Brain and Gender laboratory, Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
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Sekar S, Mani S, Rajamani B, Manivasagam T, Thenmozhi AJ, Bhat A, Ray B, Essa MM, Guillemin GJ, Chidambaram SB. Telmisartan Ameliorates Astroglial and Dopaminergic Functions in a Mouse Model of Chronic Parkinsonism. Neurotox Res 2018; 34:597-612. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9921-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Giatti S, Garcia-Segura LM, Barreto GE, Melcangi RC. Neuroactive steroids, neurosteroidogenesis and sex. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 176:1-17. [PMID: 29981391 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system is a target and a source of steroids. Neuroactive steroids are steroids that target neurons and glial cells. They include hormonal steroids originated in the peripheral glands, steroids locally synthesized by the neurons and glial cells (neurosteroids) and synthetic steroids, some of them used in clinical practice. Here we review the mechanisms of synthesis, metabolism and action of neuroactive steroids, including the role of epigenetic modifications and the mitochondria in their sex specific actions. We examine sex differences in neuroactive steroid levels under physiological conditions and their role in the establishment of sex dimorphic structures in the nervous system and sex differences in its function. In addition, particular attention is paid to neuroactive steroids under pathological conditions, analyzing how pathology alters their levels and their role as neuroprotective factors, considering the influence of sex in both cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luis M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - George E Barreto
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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Jardí F, Laurent MR, Dubois V, Kim N, Khalil R, Decallonne B, Vanderschueren D, Claessens F. Androgen and estrogen actions on male physical activity: a story beyond muscle. J Endocrinol 2018; 238:R31-R52. [PMID: 29743340 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Physical inactivity is a pandemic that contributes to several chronic diseases and poses a significant burden on health care systems worldwide. The search for effective strategies to combat sedentary behavior has led to an intensification of the research efforts to unravel the biological substrate controlling activity. A wide body of preclinical evidence makes a strong case for sex steroids regulating physical activity in both genders, albeit the mechanisms implicated remain unclear. The beneficial effects of androgens on muscle as well as on other peripheral functions might play a role in favoring adaptation to exercise. Alternatively or in addition, sex steroids could act on specific brain circuitries to boost physical activity. This review critically discusses the evidence supporting a role for androgens and estrogens stimulating male physical activity, with special emphasis on the possible role of peripheral and/or central mechanisms. Finally, the potential translation of these findings to humans is briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferran Jardí
- Clinical and Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michaël R Laurent
- Molecular Endocrinology LaboratoryDepartment of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Gerontology and GeriatricsDepartment of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Dubois
- Molecular Endocrinology LaboratoryDepartment of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nari Kim
- Clinical and Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rougin Khalil
- Clinical and Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Brigitte Decallonne
- Clinical and Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dirk Vanderschueren
- Clinical and Experimental EndocrinologyDepartment of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing (CHROMETA), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank Claessens
- Molecular Endocrinology LaboratoryDepartment of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Bourque M, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Repurposing sex steroids and related drugs as potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. Neuropharmacology 2018; 147:37-54. [PMID: 29649433 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder for which a greater prevalence and incidence is described in men. This suggests a protective effect of sex hormones in the brain. Therefore, steroids and drugs to treat endocrine conditions could have additional application for PD. Here, we review the protective effect of sex hormones, particularly estrogens, progesterone, androgens and dehydroepiandrosterone, in animal models of PD and also in human studies. Data also support that drugs affecting estrogen neurotransmission such as selective estrogen receptor modulators or affecting steroid metabolism with 5α-reductase inhibitors could be repositioned for treatment of PD. Sex steroids are also modulator of neurotransmission, thus they could repurposed to treat PD motor symptoms and to modulate the response to PD medication. No drug is yet available to limit PD progression. PD is a complex disease implicating multiple pathological processes and a therapeutic strategy using drugs with several mechanisms of action, such as sex steroids and endocrine drugs are interesting repositioning options for symptomatic treatment and disease-modifying activity for PD. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Drug Repurposing: old molecules, new ways to fast track drug discovery and development for CNS disorders'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Bourque
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, G1V 4G2, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, G1K 7P4, Canada
| | - Marc Morissette
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, G1V 4G2, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Quebec City, G1K 7P4, Canada.
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30
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Kataoka T, Hotta Y, Maeda Y, Kimura K. Testosterone Deficiency Causes Endothelial Dysfunction via Elevation of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Oxidative Stress in Castrated Rats. J Sex Med 2018; 14:1540-1548. [PMID: 29198509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone is believed to mediate the penile erectile response by producing adequate nitric oxide; therefore, testosterone deficiency results in erectile dysfunction through decreased nitric oxide bioavailability. However, the mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction in testosterone deficiency remain unclear. AIM To investigate the mechanism of endothelial dysfunction in a rat model of testosterone deficiency. METHODS Rats were distributed into 3 groups: castrated (Cast), castrated and supplemented with testosterone (Cast + T), and sham (Sham). In the Cast + T group, castrated rats were treated daily with subcutaneous testosterone (3 mg/kg daily) for 4 weeks; Sham and Cast rats received only the vehicle. OUTCOMES Erectile function using intracavernosal pressure and mean arterial pressure measurements after electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve, endothelial function using isometric tension, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels using ultra-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry, and inflammatory biomarker expression were performed 4 weeks after the operation. RESULTS In the Cast group, the ratio of intracavernosal pressure to mean arterial pressure significantly decreased, acetylcholine-induced relaxation was lower, and serum ADMA, oxidative stress, and inflammation biomarker levels were significantly increased (P < .01). Testosterone injection significantly improved each of these parameters (P < .01). CLINICAL TRANSLATION The present results provide scientific evidence of the effect of testosterone deficiency on erectile function and the effect of testosterone replacement therapy. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This study provides evidence of the influence of testosterone deficiency on endothelial function by investigating ADMA and oxidative stress. A major limitation of this study is the lack of a direct link of increased ADMA by oxidative stress to inflammation. CONCLUSION Testosterone deficiency increased not only ADMA levels but also oxidative stress and inflammation in castrated rats, which can cause damage to the corpus cavernosum, resulting in erectile dysfunction. Kataoka T, Hotta Y, Maeda Y, Kimura K. Testosterone Deficiency Causes Endothelial Dysfunction via Elevation of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Oxidative Stress in Castrated Rats. J Sex Med 2017;14:1540-1548.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Kataoka
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuji Hotta
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Maeda
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kimura
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan; Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Japan.
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31
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Mor DE, Tsika E, Mazzulli JR, Gould NS, Kim H, Daniels MJ, Doshi S, Gupta P, Grossman JL, Tan VX, Kalb RG, Caldwell KA, Caldwell GA, Wolfe JH, Ischiropoulos H. Dopamine induces soluble α-synuclein oligomers and nigrostriatal degeneration. Nat Neurosci 2017; 20:1560-1568. [PMID: 28920936 PMCID: PMC5893155 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is defined by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the formation of Lewy body inclusions containing aggregated α-synuclein. Efforts to explain dopamine neuron vulnerability are hindered by the lack of dopaminergic cell death in α-synuclein transgenic mice. To address this, we manipulated both dopamine levels and α-synuclein expression. Nigrally targeted expression of mutant tyrosine hydroxylase with enhanced catalytic activity increased dopamine levels without damaging neurons in non-transgenic mice. In contrast, raising dopamine levels in mice expressing human A53T mutant α-synuclein induced progressive nigrostriatal degeneration and reduced locomotion. Dopamine elevation in A53T mice increased levels of potentially toxic α-synuclein oligomers, resulting in conformationally and functionally modified species. Moreover, in genetically tractable Caenorhabditis elegans models, expression of α-synuclein mutated at the site of interaction with dopamine prevented dopamine-induced toxicity. These data suggest that a unique mechanism links two cardinal features of PD: dopaminergic cell death and α-synuclein aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle E. Mor
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elpida Tsika
- AC Immune SA, Ecole Polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne Innovation Park, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joseph R. Mazzulli
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Neal S. Gould
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hanna Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Malcolm J. Daniels
- Pharmacology Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Shachee Doshi
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Preetika Gupta
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Grossman
- State University of New York Downstate College of Medicine, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Victor X. Tan
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Robert G. Kalb
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kim A. Caldwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Guy A. Caldwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - John H. Wolfe
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- W.F. Goodman Center for Comparative Medical Genetics, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Harry Ischiropoulos
- Neuroscience Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Pharmacology Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Litim N, Morissette M, Caruso D, Melcangi RC, Di Paolo T. Effect of the 5α-reductase enzyme inhibitor dutasteride in the brain of intact and parkinsonian mice. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 174:242-256. [PMID: 28982631 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Dutasteride is a 5alpha-reductase inhibitor in clinical use to treat endocrine conditions. The present study investigated the neuroprotective mechanisms of action of dutasteride in intact and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-lesioned mice using a low dose of MPTP not affecting motor activity modeling early stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). We hypothesized that dutasteride neuroprotection is due to altered steroids levels. Dutasteride pre-treatment prevented loss of striatal dopamine (DA) and its metabolite DOPAC. Dutasteride decreased effects of MPTP on striatal dopamine transporter (DAT), vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) and D2 DA receptor specific binding while D1 receptor specific binding remained unchanged. Dutasteride enhanced DAT specific binding and the glycosylated form of DAT in intact mice. MPTP-lesioned mice had plasma and brain testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels lower than control mice whereas progesterone and its metabolites (dihydroprogesterone, isopregnanolone and tetrahydroprogesterone) pathway showed increases. Dutasteride treatment by inhibiting transformation of progesterone and testosterone to its metabolites elevated plasma and brain concentrations of testosterone compared to MPTP mice and decreased DHT levels in intact mice. Plasma and brain estradiol levels were low and remained unchanged by MPTP and/or dutasteride treatment. Dutasteride treatment did not affect striatal phosphorylation of Akt and its downstream substrate GSK3β as well as phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in intact and MPTP lesioned MPTP mice. Striatal glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels were markedly elevated in MPTP compared to control mice and dutasteride reduced GFAP levels in MPTP mice. Treatment with dutasteride post-lesion left unchanged striatal DA levels. These results suggest dutasteride as promising drug for PD neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadhir Litim
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Marc Morissette
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto C Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Thérèse Di Paolo
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, CHUL, Quebec City, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada.
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Atallah A, Mhaouty-Kodja S, Grange-Messent V. Chronic depletion of gonadal testosterone leads to blood-brain barrier dysfunction and inflammation in male mice. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2017; 37:3161-3175. [PMID: 28256950 PMCID: PMC5584691 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x16683961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A dysfunction in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is associated with many neurological and metabolic disorders. Although sex steroid hormones have been shown to impact vascular tone, endothelial function, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses, there are still no data on the role of testosterone in the regulation of BBB structure and function. In this context, we investigated the effects of gonadal testosterone depletion on the integrity of capillary BBB and the surrounding parenchyma in male mice. Our results show increased BBB permeability for different tracers and endogenous immunoglobulins in chronically testosterone-depleted male mice. These results were associated with disorganization of tight junction structures shown by electron tomography and a lower amount of tight junction proteins such as claudin-5 and ZO-1. BBB leakage was also accompanied by activation of astrocytes and microglia, and up-regulation of inflammatory molecules such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Supplementation of castrated male mice with testosterone restored BBB selective permeability, tight junction integrity, and almost completely abrogated the inflammatory features. The present demonstration that testosterone transiently impacts cerebrovascular physiology in adult male mice should help gain new insights into neurological and metabolic diseases linked to hypogonadism in men of all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afnan Atallah
- Sorbonne Universités, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS-IBPS), Paris, France
| | - Sakina Mhaouty-Kodja
- Sorbonne Universités, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS-IBPS), Paris, France
| | - Valérie Grange-Messent
- Sorbonne Universités, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS-IBPS), Paris, France
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Androgen deprivation therapy and the risk of parkinsonism in men with prostate cancer. World J Urol 2017; 35:1417-1423. [DOI: 10.1007/s00345-017-2010-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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Soni S, Ruhela RK, Medhi B. Nanomedicine in Central Nervous System (CNS) Disorders: A Present and Future Prospective. Adv Pharm Bull 2016; 6:319-335. [PMID: 27766216 DOI: 10.15171/apb.2016.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: For the past few decades central nervous system disorders were considered as a major strike on human health and social system of developing countries. The natural therapeutic methods for CNS disorders limited for many patients. Moreover, nanotechnology-based drug delivery to the brain may an exciting and promising platform to overcome the problem of BBB crossing. In this review, first we focused on the role of the blood-brain barrier in drug delivery; and second, we summarized synthesis methods of nanomedicine and their role in different CNS disorder. Method: We reviewed the PubMed databases and extracted several kinds of literature on neuro nanomedicines using keywords, CNS disorders, nanomedicine, and nanotechnology. The inclusion criteria included chemical and green synthesis methods for synthesis of nanoparticles encapsulated drugs and, their in-vivo and in-vitro studies. We excluded nanomedicine gene therapy and nanomaterial in brain imaging. Results: In this review, we tried to identify a highly efficient method for nanomedicine synthesis and their efficacy in neuronal disorders. SLN and PNP encapsulated drugs reported highly efficient by easily crossing BBB. Although, these neuro-nanomedicine play significant role in therapeutics but some metallic nanoparticles reported the adverse effect on developing the brain. Conclusion: Although impressive advancement has made via innovative potential drug development, but their efficacy is still moderate due to limited brain permeability. To overcome this constraint,powerful tool in CNS therapeutic intervention provided by nanotechnology-based drug delivery methods. Due to its small and biofunctionalization characteristics, nanomedicine can easily penetrate and facilitate the drug through the barrier. But still, understanding of their toxicity level, optimization and standardization are a long way to go.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shringika Soni
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Ruhela
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Bikash Medhi
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
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Levels and actions of neuroactive steroids in the nervous system under physiological and pathological conditions: Sex-specific features. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 67:25-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Toro-Urrego N, Garcia-Segura LM, Echeverria V, Barreto GE. Testosterone Protects Mitochondrial Function and Regulates Neuroglobin Expression in Astrocytic Cells Exposed to Glucose Deprivation. Front Aging Neurosci 2016; 8:152. [PMID: 27445795 PMCID: PMC4921852 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2016.00152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone is a hormone that has been shown to confer neuroprotection from different insults affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Testosterone induces this protection by different mechanisms that include the activation of anti-apoptotic pathways that are directly implicated in neuronal survival. However, little attention has been devoted to its actions on glial cells. In the present study, we have assessed whether testosterone exerts protection in a human astrocyte cell model, the T98G cells. Our results indicate that testosterone improves cell survival and mitochondrial membrane potential and reduces nuclear fragmentation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. These effects were accompanied by a positive regulation of neuroglobin, an oxygen-binding and sensor protein, which may serve as a regulator of ROS and nitrogen reactive species (NOS), and these protective effects of testosterone may be at least in part mediated by estradiol and DHT. In conclusion, these findings suggest that astroglia may mediate some of the protective actions of testosterone in the brain upon pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Toro-Urrego
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - George E Barreto
- Departamento de Nutrición y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad JaverianaBogotá, Colombia; Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de ChileSantiago, Chile; Universidad Científica del SurLima, Perú
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de Pedro-Cuesta J, Martínez-Martín P, Rábano A, Ruiz-Tovar M, Alcalde-Cabero E, Calero M. Etiologic Framework for the Study of Neurodegenerative Disorders as Well as Vascular and Metabolic Comorbidities on the Grounds of Shared Epidemiologic and Biologic Features. Front Aging Neurosci 2016; 8:138. [PMID: 27378910 PMCID: PMC4904010 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2016.00138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: During the last two decades, protein aggregation at all organismal levels, from viruses to humans, has emerged from a neglected area of protein science to become a central issue in biology and biomedicine. This article constitutes a risk-based review aimed at supporting an etiologic scenario of selected, sporadic, protein-associated, i.e., conformational, neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), and their vascular- and metabolic-associated ailments. Methods: A rationale is adopted, to incorporate selected clinical data and results from animal-model research, complementing epidemiologic evidences reported in two prior articles. Findings: Theory is formulated assuming an underlying conformational transmission mechanism, mediated either by horizontal transfer of mammalian genes coding for specific aggregation-prone proteins, or by xeno-templating between bacterial and host proteins. We build a few population-based and experimentally-testable hypotheses focusing on: (1) non-disposable surgical instruments for sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD) and other rapid progressive neurodegenerative dementia (sRPNDd), multiple system atrophy (MSA), and motor neuron disease (MND); and (2) specific bacterial infections such as B. pertussis and E. coli for all forms, but particularly for late-life sporadic conformational, NDDs, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and atherosclerosis where natural protein fibrils present in such organisms as a result of adaptation to the human host induce prion-like mechanisms. Conclusion: Implications for cohort alignment and experimental animal research are discussed and research lines proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús de Pedro-Cuesta
- Department of Applied Epidemiology, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of HealthMadrid, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), National Institute of Health Carlos IIIMadrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Martínez-Martín
- Department of Applied Epidemiology, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of HealthMadrid, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), National Institute of Health Carlos IIIMadrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Rábano
- Alzheimer Disease Research Unit, CIEN Foundation, Queen Sofia Foundation Alzheimer Center Madrid, Spain
| | - María Ruiz-Tovar
- Department of Applied Epidemiology, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of HealthMadrid, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), National Institute of Health Carlos IIIMadrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Alcalde-Cabero
- Department of Applied Epidemiology, National Center for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of HealthMadrid, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), National Institute of Health Carlos IIIMadrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Calero
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), National Institute of Health Carlos IIIMadrid, Spain; Alzheimer Disease Research Unit, CIEN Foundation, Queen Sofia Foundation Alzheimer CenterMadrid, Spain; Chronic Disease Programme, Carlos III Institute of Health, MajadahondaMadrid, Spain
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Dilshara MG, Jayasooriya RGPT, Lee S, Choi YH, Kim GY. Morin downregulates nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 production in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells by suppressing NF-κB activity and activating HO-1 induction. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 44:62-68. [PMID: 27131287 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Morin possesses anti-inflammatory activity against septic shock and allergic responses, and prevents acute liver damage. However, the biological mechanism of action of morin in neuroinflammation remains largely unknown. Therefore, the present study investigated whether morin has the ability to attenuate expression of proinflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. Morin inhibited the expression of LPS-induced proinflammatory mediators such as NO and PGE2, without any cytotoxic effects. Furthermore, LPS-induced inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were inhibited both at the mRNA and protein levels in response to morin. Morin also attenuated LPS-induced DNA-binding activity of nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) and its promoter activity. Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), a specific NF-κB inhibitor, downregulated the expression of LPS-induced iNOS and COX-2, which suggests that morin-mediated NF-κB inhibition is the main signaling pathway responsible for the inhibition of iNOS and COX-2 expression. Additionally, morin increased induction of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) activity, leading to the suppression of NO and PGE2 production. Our results indicate that morin downregulates the expression of proinflammatory genes, such as iNOS and COX-2, involved in the synthesis of NO and PGE2 in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells by suppressing NF-κB activity and activation of HO-1. Taken together, the findings of the present study suggest that morin may have potential as a therapeutic for the prevention of neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Seungheon Lee
- Department of Marine Life Sciences, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung Hyun Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Oriental Medicine, Dong-Eui University, Busan47340, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi-Young Kim
- Department of Marine Life Sciences, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea.
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Giatti S, Garcia-Segura LM, Melcangi RC. New steps forward in the neuroactive steroid field. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 153:127-34. [PMID: 25797031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2015] [Revised: 03/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Evidence accumulated in recent years suggests that the systemic treatment with neuroactive steroids, or the pharmacological modulation of its production by brain cells, represent therapeutic options to promote neuroprotection. However, new findings, which are reviewed in this paper, suggest that the factors to be considered for the design of possible therapies based on neuroactive steroids are more complex than previously thought. Thus, although as recently reported, the nervous system regulates neuroactive steroid synthesis and metabolism in adaptation to modifications in peripheral steroidogenesis, the neuroactive steroid levels in the brain do not fully reflect its levels in plasma. Even, in some cases, neuroactive steroid level modifications occurring in the nervous tissues, under physiological and pathological conditions, are in the opposite direction than in the periphery. This suggests that the systemic treatment with these molecules may have unexpected outcomes on neural steroid levels. In addition, the multiple metabolic pathways and signaling mechanisms of neuroactive steroids, which may change from one brain region to another, together with the existence of regional and sex differences in its neural levels are additional sources of complexity that should be clarified. This complexity in the levels and actions of these molecules may explain why in some cases these molecules have detrimental rather than beneficial actions for the nervous system. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Steroid Perspectives'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giatti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Cosimo Melcangi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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