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Sirtori CR, Castiglione S, Pavanello C. METFORMIN: FROM DIABETES TO CANCER TO PROLONGATION OF LIFE. Pharmacol Res 2024; 208:107367. [PMID: 39191336 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
The metformin molecule dates back to over a century, but its clinical use started in the '50s. Since then, its use in diabetics has grown constantly, with over 150 million users today. The therapeutic profile also expanded, with improved understanding of novel mechanisms. Metformin has a major activity on insulin resistance, by acting on the insulin receptors and mitochondria, most likely by activation of the adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase. These and associated mechanisms lead to significant lipid lowering and body weight loss. An anti-cancer action has come up in recent years, with mechanisms partly dependent on the mitochondrial activity and also on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase resistance occurring in some malignant tumors. The potential of metformin to raise life-length is the object of large ongoing studies and of several basic and clinical investigations. The present review article will attempt to investigate the basic mechanisms behind these diverse activities and the potential clinical benefits. Metformin may act on transcriptional activity by histone modification, DNA methylation and miRNAs. An activity on age-associated inflammation (inflammaging) may occur via activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor and changes in gut microbiota. A senolytic activity, leading to reduction of cells with the senescent associated secretory phenotype, may be crucial in lifespan prolongation as well as in ancillary properties in age-associated diseases, such as Parkinson's disease. Telomere prolongation may be related to the activity on mitochondrial respiratory factor 1 and on peroxisome gamma proliferator coactivator 1-alpha. Very recent observations on the potential to act on the most severe neurological disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia, have raised considerable hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare R Sirtori
- Center of Dyslipidemias, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy; Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Sofia Castiglione
- Center of Dyslipidemias, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy; Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Pavanello
- Center of Dyslipidemias, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy; Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Syngkli S, Singh SK, Rani RM, Das B. Genistein and metformin regulate glycerol kinase and the enzymes of glycerol 3-phosphate shuttle in a differential manner in myocytes, hepatocytes and adipocytes. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:132296. [PMID: 38740159 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132296] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Glycerol kinase (GK) and glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) are critical in glucose homeostasis. The role of genistein and metformin on these enzymes and glucose production was investigated in C2C12, HepG2, and 3T3-L1 cells. Enzyme kinetics, Real-Time PCR and western blots were performed to determine enzyme activities and expressions of mRNAs and proteins. Glucose production and uptake were also measured in these cells. siRNAs were used to assess their impact on the enzymes and glucose production. Ki values for the compounds were determined using purified GK and GPDH. Genistein decreased GK activity by ∼45 %, while metformin reduced cGPDH and mGPDH activities by ∼32 % and ∼43 %, respectively. Insignificant changes in expressions (mRNAs and proteins) of the enzymes were observed. The compounds showed dose-dependent alterations in glucose production and uptake in these cells. Genistein non-competitively inhibited His-GK activity (Ki 19.12 μM), while metformin non-competitively inhibited His-cGPDH (Ki 75.52 μM) and mGPDH (Ki 54.70 μM) activities. siRNAs transfection showed ∼50 % and ∼35 % decrease in activities of GK and mGPDH and a decrease in glucose production (0.38-fold and 0.42-fold) in 3T3-L1 cells. Considering the differential effects of the compounds, this study may provide insights into the potential therapeutic strategies for type II diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Superior Syngkli
- Biological Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, India
| | - Sumit K Singh
- Biological Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, India
| | - Riva M Rani
- Biological Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, India
| | - Bidyadhar Das
- Biological Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Zoology, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, India.
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Daka Q, Neziri B, Lindner E, Azuara Blanco A. Metformin in Glaucoma Treatment. J Glaucoma 2024; 33:387-393. [PMID: 38536124 DOI: 10.1097/ijg.0000000000002387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
PRCIS Rigorous trials are essential to develop comprehensive treatment strategies that fully exploit the therapeutic potential of metformin in the treatment of glaucoma. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the potentially beneficial effect of metformin on glaucoma risk factors and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. The aim is to contribute to the development of new treatment strategies for glaucoma. METHODS We searched for studies that assessed the effects of metformin on glaucoma risk factors and the associated underlying mechanisms. Our search included electronic databases such as PUBMED, EMBASE, and clinicaltrials.gov. RESULTS Unfortunately, we did not find any clinical trials that specifically investigated the impact of metformin on glaucoma. However, data from experimental studies demonstrated the capability of metformin to modulate various pathways that could contribute to neuroprotection in glaucoma. CONCLUSION In order to develop comprehensive treatment strategies that fully exploit the therapeutic potential of metformin in the treatment of glaucoma, rigorous trials are essential. These studies are necessary to demonstrate both the safety and efficacy of metformin in the context of glaucoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qëndresë Daka
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtinë, Kosovo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtinë, Kosovo
| | - Burim Neziri
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtinë, Kosovo
| | - Ewald Lindner
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Granz, Auenbruggerplatz, Granz, Austria
| | - Augusto Azuara Blanco
- Centre for Public Health, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University, Belfast, UK
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Loan A, Syal C, Lui M, He L, Wang J. Promising use of metformin in treating neurological disorders: biomarker-guided therapies. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1045-1055. [PMID: 37862207 PMCID: PMC10749596 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385286] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are a diverse group of conditions that affect the nervous system and include neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease), cerebrovascular conditions (stroke), and neurodevelopmental disorders (autism spectrum disorder). Although they affect millions of individuals around the world, only a limited number of effective treatment options are available today. Since most neurological disorders express mitochondria-related metabolic perturbations, metformin, a biguanide type II antidiabetic drug, has attracted a lot of attention to be repurposed to treat neurological disorders by correcting their perturbed energy metabolism. However, controversial research emerges regarding the beneficial/detrimental effects of metformin on these neurological disorders. Given that most neurological disorders have complex etiology in their pathophysiology and are influenced by various risk factors such as aging, lifestyle, genetics, and environment, it is important to identify perturbed molecular functions that can be targeted by metformin in these neurological disorders. These molecules can then be used as biomarkers to stratify subpopulations of patients who show distinct molecular/pathological properties and can respond to metformin treatment, ultimately developing targeted therapy. In this review, we will discuss mitochondria-related metabolic perturbations and impaired molecular pathways in these neurological disorders and how these can be used as biomarkers to guide metformin-responsive treatment for the targeted therapy to treat neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Loan
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Charvi Syal
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Margarita Lui
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ling He
- Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Amengual-Cladera E, Morla-Barcelo PM, Morán-Costoya A, Sastre-Serra J, Pons DG, Valle A, Roca P, Nadal-Serrano M. Metformin: From Diabetes to Cancer-Unveiling Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:302. [PMID: 38785784 PMCID: PMC11117706 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Metformin, a widely used anti-diabetic drug, has garnered attention for its potential in cancer management, particularly in breast and colorectal cancer. It is established that metformin reduces mitochondrial respiration, but its specific molecular targets within mitochondria vary. Proposed mechanisms include inhibiting mitochondrial respiratory chain Complex I and/or Complex IV, and mitochondrial glycerophosphate dehydrogenase, among others. These actions lead to cellular energy deficits, redox state changes, and several molecular changes that reduce hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetic patients. Clinical evidence supports metformin's role in cancer prevention in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Moreover, in these patients with breast and colorectal cancer, metformin consumption leads to an improvement in survival outcomes and prognosis. The synergistic effects of metformin with chemotherapy and immunotherapy highlights its potential as an adjunctive therapy for breast and colorectal cancer. However, nuanced findings underscore the need for further research and stratification by molecular subtype, particularly for breast cancer. This comprehensive review integrates metformin-related findings from epidemiological, clinical, and preclinical studies in breast and colorectal cancer. Here, we discuss current research addressed to define metformin's bioavailability and efficacy, exploring novel metformin-based compounds and drug delivery systems, including derivatives targeting mitochondria, combination therapies, and novel nanoformulations, showing enhanced anticancer effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Amengual-Cladera
- Grupo Metabolismo Energético y Nutrición, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (E.A.-C.); (A.M.-C.); (A.V.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
| | - Pere Miquel Morla-Barcelo
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
- Grupo Multidisciplinar de Oncología Traslacional, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Andrea Morán-Costoya
- Grupo Metabolismo Energético y Nutrición, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (E.A.-C.); (A.M.-C.); (A.V.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
| | - Jorge Sastre-Serra
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
- Grupo Multidisciplinar de Oncología Traslacional, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn, CB06/03/0043), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Gabriel Pons
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
- Grupo Multidisciplinar de Oncología Traslacional, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
| | - Adamo Valle
- Grupo Metabolismo Energético y Nutrición, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (E.A.-C.); (A.M.-C.); (A.V.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn, CB06/03/0043), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Roca
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
- Grupo Multidisciplinar de Oncología Traslacional, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERobn, CB06/03/0043), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Nadal-Serrano
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Illes Balears (IdISBa), 07120 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain; (P.M.M.-B.); (J.S.-S.); (D.G.P.); (M.N.-S.)
- Grupo Multidisciplinar de Oncología Traslacional, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud (IUNICS), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. de Valldemossa, km 7.5, 07122 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
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Perazza F, Leoni L, Colosimo S, Musio A, Bocedi G, D’Avino M, Agnelli G, Nicastri A, Rossetti C, Sacilotto F, Marchesini G, Petroni ML, Ravaioli F. Metformin and the Liver: Unlocking the Full Therapeutic Potential. Metabolites 2024; 14:186. [PMID: 38668314 PMCID: PMC11052067 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14040186] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a highly effective medication for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Recent studies have shown that it has significant therapeutic benefits in various organ systems, particularly the liver. Although the effects of metformin on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis are still being debated, it has positive effects on cirrhosis and anti-tumoral properties, which can help prevent the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, it has been proven to improve insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia, commonly associated with liver diseases. While more studies are needed to fully determine the safety and effectiveness of metformin use in liver diseases, the results are highly promising. Indeed, metformin has a terrific potential for extending its full therapeutic properties beyond its traditional use in managing diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Perazza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Laura Leoni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Santo Colosimo
- Doctorate School of Nutrition Science, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | | | - Giulia Bocedi
- U.O. Diabetologia, Ospedale C. Magati, Scandiano, 42019 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Michela D’Avino
- S.C. Endocrinologia Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Giulio Agnelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Alba Nicastri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Chiara Rossetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Federica Sacilotto
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Giulio Marchesini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Maria Letizia Petroni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
| | - Federico Ravaioli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.P.); (L.L.); (G.A.); (A.N.); (C.R.); (F.S.); (G.M.); (M.L.P.)
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Immunoallergic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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Islam SR, Manna SK. Identification of glucose-independent and reversible metabolic pathways associated with anti-proliferative effect of metformin in liver cancer cells. Metabolomics 2024; 20:29. [PMID: 38413541 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-024-02096-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the ability of cancer cells to survive glucose deprivation, most studies on anti-cancer effect of metformin explored its impact on glucose metabolism. No study ever examined whether its anti-cancer effect is reversible. Existing evidences warrant understanding of glucose-independent non-cytotoxic anti-proliferative effect of metformin to rationalize its role in liver cancer. OBJECTIVES Characterization of glucose-independent anti-proliferative metabolic effects of metformin as well as analysis of their reversibility in liver cancer cells. METHODOLOGY The dose-dependent effects of metformin on HepG2 cells were examined in presence and absence of glucose. The longitudinal evolution of metabolome was analyzed along with gene and protein expression as well as their correlations with and reversibility of cellular phenotype and metabolic signatures. RESULTS Metformin concentrations up to 2.5 mM were found to be anti-proliferative irrespective of presence of glucose without significant increase in cytotoxicity. Apart from mitochondrial impairment, derangement of fatty acid desaturation, one-carbon, glutathione, and polyamine metabolism were associated with metformin treatment irrespective of glucose supplementation. Depletion of pantothenic acid, downregulation of essential amino acid uptake and metabolism alongside purine salvage were identified as novel glucose-independent effects of metformin. These were significantly correlated with cMyc expression and reduction in proliferation. Rescue experiments established reversibility upon metformin withdrawal and tight association between proliferation, metabotype, and cMyc expression. CONCLUSIONS The derangement of multiple glucose-independent metabolic pathways, which are often upregulated in therapy-resistant cancer, and concomitant cMyc downregulation coordinately contribute to the anti-proliferative effect of metformin in liver cancer cells. These are reversible and may influence its therapeutic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sk Ramiz Islam
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700 064, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400 094, India
| | - Soumen Kanti Manna
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700 064, India.
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400 094, India.
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Lin QR, Jia LQ, Lei M, Gao D, Zhang N, Sha L, Liu XH, Liu YD. Natural products as pharmacological modulators of mitochondrial dysfunctions for the treatment of diabetes and its complications: An update since 2010. Pharmacol Res 2024; 200:107054. [PMID: 38181858 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.107054] [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] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes, characterized as a well-known chronic metabolic syndrome, with its associated complications pose a substantial and escalating health and healthcare challenge on a global scale. Current strategies addressing diabetes are mainly symptomatic and there are fewer available curative pharmaceuticals for diabetic complications. Thus, there is an urgent need to identify novel pharmacological targets and agents. The impaired mitochondria have been associated with the etiology of diabetes and its complications, and the intervention of mitochondrial dysfunction represents an attractive breakthrough point for the treatments of diabetes and its complications. Natural products (NPs), with multicenter characteristics, multi-pharmacological activities and lower toxicity, have been caught attentions as the modulators of mitochondrial functions in the therapeutical filed of diabetes and its complications. This review mainly summarizes the recent progresses on the potential of 39 NPs and 2 plant-extracted mixtures to improve mitochondrial dysfunction against diabetes and its complications. It is expected that this work may be useful to accelerate the development of innovative drugs originated from NPs and improve upcoming therapeutics in diabetes and its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Ru Lin
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Lian-Qun Jia
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for TCM Viscera-State Theory and Applications, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning 116600, China
| | - Ming Lei
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education & Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Di Gao
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Lei Sha
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Xu-Han Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning 116033, China.
| | - Yu-Dan Liu
- Department of Neuroendocrine Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China.
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Isop LM, Neculau AE, Necula RD, Kakucs C, Moga MA, Dima L. Metformin: The Winding Path from Understanding Its Molecular Mechanisms to Proving Therapeutic Benefits in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1714. [PMID: 38139841 PMCID: PMC10748332 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121714] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, has garnered increasing attention for its potential neuroprotective properties due to the growing demand for treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron diseases. This review synthesizes experimental and clinical studies on metformin's mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative disorders. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library, focused on key phrases such as "metformin", "neuroprotection", and "neurodegenerative diseases", with data up to September 2023. Recent research on metformin's glucoregulatory mechanisms reveals new molecular targets, including the activation of the LKB1-AMPK signaling pathway, which is crucial for chronic administration of metformin. The pleiotropic impact may involve other stress kinases that are acutely activated. The precise role of respiratory chain complexes (I and IV), of the mitochondrial targets, or of the lysosomes in metformin effects remains to be established by further research. Research on extrahepatic targets like the gut and microbiota, as well as its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, is crucial for understanding neurodegenerative disorders. Experimental data on animal models shows promising results, but clinical studies are inconclusive. Understanding the molecular targets and mechanisms of its effects could help design clinical trials to explore and, hopefully, prove its therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mihaela Isop
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Andrea Elena Neculau
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Radu Dan Necula
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Cristian Kakucs
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
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10
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Ye J, Hu Y, Wang C, Lian H, Dong Z. Cellular mechanism of diabetes remission by bariatric surgery. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2023; 34:590-600. [PMID: 37574405 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.07.001] [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] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Bariatric surgery is a powerful therapy for type 2 diabetes in patients with obesity. The mechanism of insulin sensitization by surgery has been extensively investigated in weight loss-dependent and weight loss-independent conditions. However, a consensus remains to be established regarding the underlying mechanisms. Energy deficit induced by calorie restriction (CR), that occurs both before and after surgery, represents a unique physiological basis for insulin sensitization regardless of weight loss. In support, we integrate evidence in the literature to provide an energy-based view of insulin sensitization as follows: surgery improves insulin sensitivity through the energy deficit induced by CR, leading to correction of mitochondrial overload in multiple cell types; this then triggers functional reprogramming of relevant tissues leading to diabetes remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Ye
- Metabolic Disease Research Center, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Zhengzhou Central Hospital, Zhengzhou 450007, China; Center for Advanced Medicine, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China; Research Center for Basic Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
| | - Yangxi Hu
- Department of Metabolic Surgery, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Zhengzhou Central Hospital, Zhengzhou 450007, China
| | - Chengming Wang
- Metabolic Disease Research Center, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Zhengzhou Central Hospital, Zhengzhou 450007, China
| | - Hongkai Lian
- Trauma Research Center, Zhengzhou University Affiliated Zhengzhou Central Hospital, Zhengzhou 450007, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Center for Advanced Medicine, College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
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11
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Liu C, Zhang S, Xue J, Zhang H, Yin J. Evaluation of PEN2-ATP6AP1 axis as an antiparasitic target for metformin based on phylogeny analysis and molecular docking. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2023; 255:111580. [PMID: 37473813 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2023.111580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metformin (Met), the first-line drug used in the treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus, is effective against a variety of parasites. However, the molecular target of Met at clinical dose against various parasites remains unclear. Recently, low-dose Met (clinical dose) has been reported to directly bind PEN2 (presenilin enhancer protein 2) and initiate the lysosomal glucose-sensing pathway for AMPK activation via ATP6AP1 (V-type proton ATPase subunit S1), rather than perturbing AMP/ATP levels. METHODS To explore the possibility of PEN2-ATP6AP1 axis as a drug target of Met for the treatment of parasitic diseases, we identified and characterized orthologs of PEN2 and ATP6AP1 genes in parasites, by constructing phylogenetic trees, analyzing protein sequences and predicting interactions between Met and parasite PEN2. RESULTS The results showed that PEN2 and ATP6AP1 genes are only found together in a few of parasite species in the cestoda and nematoda groups. Indicated by molecular simulation, Met might function by interacting with PEN2 on V37/W38/E5 (Trichinella spiralis) with similar binding energy, and on F35/S39 (Caenorhabditis elegans) with higher binding energy, comparing to human PEN2. Hence, these results indicated that only the T. spiralis PEN2-ATP6AP1 axis has the potential to be the direct target of low-concentration Met. Together with contribution of host cells including immune cells in vivo, T. spiralis PEN2-ATP6AP1 axis might play roles in reducing parasite load at low-concentration Met. However, the mechanisms of low-concentration Met on other parasitic infections might be mainly achieved by regulating host cells, rather than directly targeting PEN2-ATP6AP1 axis. CONCLUSIONS These findings revealed the potential mechanisms by which Met treats various parasitic diseases, and shed new light on the development of antiparasitic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congshan Liu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Shangrui Zhang
- Henan Medical College, No. 8 Shuanghu Avenue, Longhu Town, Xinzheng, Zhengzhou City 451191, Henan Province, China
| | - Jian Xue
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Haobing Zhang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jianhai Yin
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China.
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12
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Wilson N, Kataura T, Korsgen ME, Sun C, Sarkar S, Korolchuk VI. The autophagy-NAD axis in longevity and disease. Trends Cell Biol 2023; 33:788-802. [PMID: 36878731 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is an intracellular degradation pathway that recycles subcellular components to maintain metabolic homeostasis. NAD is an essential metabolite that participates in energy metabolism and serves as a substrate for a series of NAD+-consuming enzymes (NADases), including PARPs and SIRTs. Declining levels of autophagic activity and NAD represent features of cellular ageing, and consequently enhancing either significantly extends health/lifespan in animals and normalises metabolic activity in cells. Mechanistically, it has been shown that NADases can directly regulate autophagy and mitochondrial quality control. Conversely, autophagy has been shown to preserve NAD levels by modulating cellular stress. In this review we highlight the mechanisms underlying this bidirectional relationship between NAD and autophagy, and the potential therapeutic targets it provides for combatting age-related disease and promoting longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niall Wilson
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5PL, UK
| | - Tetsushi Kataura
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5PL, UK
| | - Miriam E Korsgen
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Congxin Sun
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sovan Sarkar
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Viktor I Korolchuk
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5PL, UK.
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13
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Foretz M, Guigas B, Viollet B. Metformin: update on mechanisms of action and repurposing potential. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023:10.1038/s41574-023-00833-4. [PMID: 37130947 PMCID: PMC10153049 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00833-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 105.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Currently, metformin is the first-line medication to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in most guidelines and is used daily by >200 million patients. Surprisingly, the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic action are complex and are still not fully understood. Early evidence highlighted the liver as the major organ involved in the effect of metformin on reducing blood levels of glucose. However, increasing evidence points towards other sites of action that might also have an important role, including the gastrointestinal tract, the gut microbial communities and the tissue-resident immune cells. At the molecular level, it seems that the mechanisms of action vary depending on the dose of metformin used and duration of treatment. Initial studies have shown that metformin targets hepatic mitochondria; however, the identification of a novel target at low concentrations of metformin at the lysosome surface might reveal a new mechanism of action. Based on the efficacy and safety records in T2DM, attention has been given to the repurposing of metformin as part of adjunct therapy for the treatment of cancer, age-related diseases, inflammatory diseases and COVID-19. In this Review, we highlight the latest advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of action of metformin and discuss potential emerging novel therapeutic uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Foretz
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Guigas
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Benoit Viollet
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.
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14
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Lushchak O, Gospodaryov D, Strilbytska O, Bayliak M. Changing ROS, NAD and AMP: A path to longevity via mitochondrial therapeutics. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2023; 136:157-196. [PMID: 37437977 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Lifespan of many organisms, from unicellular yeast to extremely complex human organism, strongly depends on the genetic background and environmental factors. Being among most influential target energy metabolism is affected by macronutrients, their caloric values, and peculiarities of catabolism. Mitochondria are central organelles that respond for energy metabolism in eukaryotic cells. Mitochondria generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are lifespan modifying metabolites and a kind of biological clock. Oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) are important metabolic intermediates and molecules that trigger or inhibit several signaling pathways involved in gene silencing, nutrient allocation, and cell regeneration and programmed death. A part of NAD+ and AMP metabolism is tied to mitochondria. Using substances that able to target mitochondria, as well as allotopic expression of specific enzymes, are envisioned to be innovative approaches to prolong lifespan by modulation of ROS, NAD+, and AMP levels. Among substances, an anti-diabetic drug metformin is believed to increase NAD+ and AMP levels, indirectly influencing histone deacetylases, involved in gene silencing, and AMP-activated protein kinase, an energy sensor of cells. Mitochondrially targeted derivatives of ubiquinone were found to interact with ROS. A mitochondrially targeted non-proton-pumping NADH dehydrogenase may influence both ROS and NAD+ levels. Chapter describes putative how mitochondria-targeted drugs and NADH dehydrogenase extend lifespan, perspectives of creating drugs with similar properties and their usage as senotherapeutic pills are discussed in the chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleh Lushchak
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine.
| | - Dmytro Gospodaryov
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
| | - Olha Strilbytska
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
| | - Maria Bayliak
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
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15
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Nagahisa T, Kosugi S, Yamaguchi S. Interactions between Intestinal Homeostasis and NAD + Biology in Regulating Incretin Production and Postprandial Glucose Metabolism. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15061494. [PMID: 36986224 PMCID: PMC10052115 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061494] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The intestine has garnered attention as a target organ for developing new therapies for impaired glucose tolerance. The intestine, which produces incretin hormones, is the central regulator of glucose metabolism. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) production, which determines postprandial glucose levels, is regulated by intestinal homeostasis. Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT)-mediated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) biosynthesis in major metabolic organs such as the liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle plays a crucial role in obesity- and aging-associated organ derangements. Furthermore, NAMPT-mediated NAD+ biosynthesis in the intestines and its upstream and downstream mediators, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and NAD+-dependent deacetylase sirtuins (SIRTs), respectively, are critical for intestinal homeostasis, including gut microbiota composition and bile acid metabolism, and GLP-1 production. Thus, boosting the intestinal AMPK-NAMPT-NAD+-SIRT pathway to improve intestinal homeostasis, GLP-1 production, and postprandial glucose metabolism has gained significant attention as a novel strategy to improve impaired glucose tolerance. Herein, we aimed to review in detail the regulatory mechanisms and importance of intestinal NAMPT-mediated NAD+ biosynthesis in regulating intestinal homeostasis and GLP-1 secretion in obesity and aging. Furthermore, dietary and molecular factors regulating intestinal NAMPT-mediated NAD+ biosynthesis were critically explored to facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies for postprandial glucose dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taichi Nagahisa
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shotaro Kosugi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shintaro Yamaguchi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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16
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Abstract
Metformin is the most prescribed drug for DM2, but its site and mechanism of action are still not well established. Here, we investigated the effects of metformin on basolateral intestinal glucose uptake (BIGU), and its consequences on hepatic glucose production (HGP). In diabetic patients and mice, the primary site of metformin action was the gut, increasing BIGU, evaluated through PET-CT. In mice and CaCo2 cells, this increase in BIGU resulted from an increase in GLUT1 and GLUT2, secondary to ATF4 and AMPK. In hyperglycemia, metformin increased the lactate (reducing pH and bicarbonate in portal vein) and acetate production in the gut, modulating liver pyruvate carboxylase, MPC1/2, and FBP1, establishing a gut-liver crosstalk that reduces HGP. In normoglycemia, metformin-induced increases in BIGU is accompanied by hypoglycemia in the portal vein, generating a counter-regulatory mechanism that avoids reductions or even increases HGP. In summary, metformin increases BIGU and through gut-liver crosstalk influences HGP.
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17
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AMPK inhibits liver gluconeogenesis: fact or fiction? Biochem J 2023; 480:105-125. [PMID: 36637190 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Is there a role for AMPK in the control of hepatic gluconeogenesis and could targeting AMPK in liver be a viable strategy for treating type 2 diabetes? These are frequently asked questions this review tries to answer. After describing properties of AMPK and different small-molecule AMPK activators, we briefly review the various mechanisms for controlling hepatic glucose production, mainly via gluconeogenesis. The different experimental and genetic models that have been used to draw conclusions about the role of AMPK in the control of liver gluconeogenesis are critically discussed. The effects of several anti-diabetic drugs, particularly metformin, on hepatic gluconeogenesis are also considered. We conclude that the main effect of AMPK activation pertinent to the control of hepatic gluconeogenesis is to antagonize glucagon signalling in the short-term and, in the long-term, to improve insulin sensitivity by reducing hepatic lipid content.
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18
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Wen J, Yi Z, Chen Y, Huang J, Mao X, Zhang L, Zeng Y, Cheng Q, Ye W, Liu Z, Liu F, Liu J. Efficacy of metformin therapy in patients with cancer: a meta-analysis of 22 randomised controlled trials. BMC Med 2022; 20:402. [PMID: 36280839 PMCID: PMC9594974 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02599-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate whether metformin monotherapy or adjunctive therapy improves the prognosis in patients with any type of cancer compared to non-metformin users (age ≥18). METHODS Databases (Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) and clinical trial registries ( ClinicalTrials.gov ; the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform) were screened for randomized, controlled trials (RCT) reporting at least progression-free survival (PFS) and/or overall survival (OS). Main outcome measures included hazard ratios (HR), and combined HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random-effects models. RESULTS Of the 8419 records screened, 22 RCTs comprising 5943 participants were included. Pooled HRs were not statistically significant in both PFS (HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.82-1.15, I2 = 50%) and OS (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.86-1.13, I2 = 33%) for patients with cancer between the metformin and control groups. Subgroup analyses demonstrated that metformin treatment was associated with a marginally significant improvement in PFS in reproductive system cancers (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.74-1.00) and a significantly worse PFS in digestive system cancers (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.03-2.04). The PFS or OS was observed consistently across maintenance dose, diabetes exclusion, median follow-up, risk of bias, and combined antitumoral therapies. CONCLUSION Metformin treatment was not associated with cancer-related mortality in adults compared with placebo or no treatment. However, metformin implied beneficial effects in the PFS of the patients with reproductive system cancers but was related to a worse PFS in digestive system cancers. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number CRD42022324672.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hypothalamic Pituitary Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhenjie Yi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hypothalamic Pituitary Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yuyao Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Huang
- National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xueyi Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liyang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Zeng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hypothalamic Pituitary Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Quan Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wenrui Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hypothalamic Pituitary Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhixiong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hypothalamic Pituitary Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fangkun Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,Hypothalamic Pituitary Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Jingfang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,Hypothalamic Pituitary Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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19
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Song Y, Wu Z, Zhao P. The effects of metformin in the treatment of osteoarthritis: Current perspectives. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:952560. [PMID: 36081941 PMCID: PMC9445495 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.952560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is a chronic and irreversible disease of the locomotor system which is closely associated with advancing age. Pain and limited mobility frequently affect the quality of life in middle-aged and older adults. With a global population of more than 350 million, osteoarthritis is becoming a health threat alongside cancer and cardiovascular disease. It is challenging to find effective treatments to promote cartilage repair and slow down disease progression. Metformin is the first-line drug for patients with type 2 diabetes, and current perspectives suggest that it cannot only lower glucose but also has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Experimental studies applying metformin for the treatment of osteoarthritis have received much attention in recent years. In our review, we first presented the history of metformin and the current status of osteoarthritis, followed by a brief review of the mechanism that metformin acts, involving AMPK-dependent and non-dependent pathways. Moreover, we concluded that metformin may be beneficial in the treatment of osteoarthritis by inhibiting inflammation, modulating autophagy, antagonizing oxidative stress, and reducing pain levels. Finally, we analyzed the relevant evidence from animal and human studies. The potential of metformin for the treatment of osteoarthritis deserves to be further explored.
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20
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Celik E, Ercin M, Bolkent S, Gezginci-Oktayoglu S. Metformin induces mitochondrial remodeling and differentiation of pancreatic progenitor cells into beta-cells by a potential mechanism including suppression of the T1R3, PLCβ2, cytoplasmic Ca +2, and AKT. J Physiol Biochem 2022; 78:869-883. [PMID: 35907121 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-022-00910-8] [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: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The main goal of this study was to investigate the molecular changes in pancreatic progenitor cells subject to high glucose, aspartame, and metformin in vitro. This scope of work glucose, aspartame, and metformin were exposed to pancreatic islet derived progenitor cells (PID-PCs) for 10 days. GLUT1's role in beta-cell differentiation was examined by using GLUT1 inhibitor WZB117. Insulin+ cell ratio was measured by flow cytometry; the expression of beta-cell differentiation related genes was shown by RT-PCR; mitochondrial mass, mitochondrial ROS level, cytoplasmic Ca2+, glucose uptake, and metabolite analysis were made fluorometrically and spectrophotometrically; and proteins involved in related molecular pathways were determined by western blotting. Findings showed that glucose or aspartame exposed cells had similar metabolic and gene expression profile to control PID-PCs. Furthermore, relatively few insulin+ cells in aspartame treated cells were determined. Aspartame signal is transmitted through PLCβ2, CAMKK2 and LKB1 in PID-PCs. The most obvious finding of this study is that metformin significantly increased beta-cell differentiation. The mechanism involves suppression of the sweet taste signal's molecules T1R3, PLCβ2, cytoplasmic Ca+2, and AKT in addition to the direct effect of metformin on mitochondria and AMPK, and the energy metabolism of PID-PCs is remodelled in the direction of oxidative phosphorylation. These findings are very important in terms of determining that metformin stimulates the mitochondrial remodeling and the differentiation of PID-PCs to beta-cells and thus it may contribute to the compensation step, which is the first stage of diabetes development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ertan Celik
- Molecular Biology Program, Biology Section, Institute of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Merve Ercin
- Molecular Biology Program, Biology Section, Institute of Science, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Molecular Biology Section, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sehnaz Bolkent
- Molecular Biology Section, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Selda Gezginci-Oktayoglu
- Molecular Biology Section, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey.
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21
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Pavlovic K, Krako Jakovljevic N, Isakovic AM, Ivanovic T, Markovic I, Lalic NM. Therapeutic vs. Suprapharmacological Metformin Concentrations: Different Effects on Energy Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function in Skeletal Muscle Cells in vitro. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:930308. [PMID: 35873556 PMCID: PMC9299382 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.930308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is an oral antidiabetic agent that has been widely used in clinical practice for over 60 years, and is currently the most prescribed antidiabetic drug worldwide. However, the molecular mechanisms of metformin action in different tissues are still not completely understood. Although metformin-induced inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain Complex I and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase have been observed in many studies, published data is inconsistent. Furthermore, metformin concentrations used for in vitro studies and their pharmacological relevance are a common point of debate. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of different metformin concentrations on energy metabolism and activity of relevant signaling pathways in C2C12 muscle cells in vitro. In order to determine if therapeutic metformin concentrations have an effect on skeletal muscle cells, we used micromolar metformin concentrations (50 µM), and compared the effects with those of higher, millimolar concentrations (5 mM), that have already been established to affect mitochondrial function and AMPK activity. We conducted all experiments in conditions of high (25 mM) and low glucose (5.5 mM) concentration, in order to discern the role of glucose availability on metformin action. According to our results, micromolar metformin treatment did not cause Complex I inhibition nor AMPK activation. Also, cells cultured in low glucose medium were more sensitive to Complex I inhibition, mitochondrial membrane depolarization and AMPK activation by millimolar metformin, but cells cultured in high glucose medium were more prone to induction of ROS production. In conclusion, even though suprapharmacological metformin concentrations cause Complex I inhibition and AMPK activation in skeletal muscle cells in vitro, therapeutic concentrations cause no such effect. This raises the question if these mechanisms are relevant for therapeutic effects of metformin in skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasja Pavlovic
- Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nina Krako Jakovljevic
- Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Andjelka M Isakovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tijana Ivanovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivanka Markovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nebojsa M Lalic
- Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
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22
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Patient-derived microphysiological model identifies the therapeutic potential of metformin for thoracic aortic aneurysm. EBioMedicine 2022; 81:104080. [PMID: 35636318 PMCID: PMC9156889 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is the permanent dilation of the thoracic aortic wall that predisposes patients to lethal events such as aortic dissection or rupture, for which effective medical therapy remains scarce. Human-relevant microphysiological models serve as a promising tool in drug screening and discovery. Methods We developed a dynamic, rhythmically stretching, three-dimensional microphysiological model. Using patient-derived human aortic smooth muscle cells (HAoSMCs), we tested the biological features of the model and compared them with native aortic tissues. Drug testing was performed on the individualized TAA models, and the potentially effective drug was further tested using β-aminopropionitrile-treated mice and retrospective clinical data. Findings The HAoSMCs on the model recapitulated the expressions of many TAA-related genes in tissue. Phenotypic switching and mitochondrial dysfunction, two disease hallmarks of TAA, were highlighted on the microphysiological model: the TAA-derived HAoSMCs exhibited lower alpha-smooth muscle actin expression, lower mitochondrial membrane potential, lower oxygen consumption rate and higher superoxide accumulation than control cells, while these differences were not evidently reflected in two-dimensional culture flasks. Model-based drug testing demonstrated that metformin partially recovered contractile phenotype and mitochondrial function in TAA patients’ cells. Mouse experiment and clinical investigations also demonstrated better preserved aortic microstructure, higher nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide level and lower aortic diameter with metformin treatment. Interpretation These findings support the application of this human-relevant microphysiological model in studying personalized disease characteristics and facilitating drug discovery for TAA. Metformin may regulate contractile phenotypes and metabolic dysfunctions in diseased HAoSMCs and limit aortic dilation. Funding This work was supported by grants from National Key R&D Program of China (2018YFC1005002), National Natural Science Foundation of China (82070482, 81771971, 81772007, 51927805, and 21734003), the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (20ZR1411700, 18ZR1407000, 17JC1400200, and 20YF1406900), Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project (2017SHZDZX01), and Shanghai Municipal Education Commission (Innovation Program 2017-01-07-00-07-E00027). Y.S.Z. was not supported by any of these funds; instead, the Brigham Research Institute is acknowledged.
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Di Magno L, Di Pastena F, Bordone R, Coni S, Canettieri G. The Mechanism of Action of Biguanides: New Answers to a Complex Question. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133220. [PMID: 35804992 PMCID: PMC9265089 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Biguanides are a family of antidiabetic drugs with documented anticancer properties in preclinical and clinical settings. Despite intensive investigation, how they exert their therapeutic effects is still debated. Many studies support the hypothesis that biguanides inhibit mitochondrial complex I, inducing energy stress and activating compensatory responses mediated by energy sensors. However, a major concern related to this “complex” model is that the therapeutic concentrations of biguanides found in the blood and tissues are much lower than the doses required to inhibit complex I, suggesting the involvement of additional mechanisms. This comprehensive review illustrates the current knowledge of pharmacokinetics, receptors, sensors, intracellular alterations, and the mechanism of action of biguanides in diabetes and cancer. The conditions of usage and variables affecting the response to these drugs, the effect on the immune system and microbiota, as well as the results from the most relevant clinical trials in cancer are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Di Magno
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Fiorella Di Pastena
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Rosa Bordone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Sonia Coni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
- Istituto Pasteur—Fondazione Cenci—Bolognetti, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Metabolic Action of Metformin. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15070810. [PMID: 35890109 PMCID: PMC9317619 DOI: 10.3390/ph15070810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a cheap and safe biguanide derivative, due to its ability to influence metabolism, is widely used as a first-line drug for type 2 diabetes (T2DM) treatment. Therefore, the aim of this review was to present the updated biochemical and molecular effects exerted by the drug. It has been well explored that metformin suppresses hepatic glucose production in both AMPK-independent and AMPK-dependent manners. Substantial scientific evidence also revealed that its action is related to decreased secretion of lipids from intestinal epithelial cells, as well as strengthened oxidation of fatty acids in adipose tissue and muscles. It was recognized that metformin’s supra-therapeutic doses suppress mitochondrial respiration in intestinal epithelial cells, whereas its therapeutic doses elevate cellular respiration in the liver. The drug is also suggested to improve systemic insulin sensitivity as a result of alteration in gut microbiota composition, maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity, and alleviation of low-grade inflammation.
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Xie D, Chen F, Zhang Y, Shi B, Song J, Chaudhari K, Yang SH, Zhang GJ, Sun X, Taylor HS, Li D, Huang Y. Let-7 underlies metformin-induced inhibition of hepatic glucose production. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2122217119. [PMID: 35344434 PMCID: PMC9169108 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2122217119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
SignificanceA clear mechanistic understanding of metformin's antidiabetic effects is lacking. This is because suprapharmacological concentrations of metformin have been used in most studies. Using mouse models and human primary hepatocytes, we show that metformin, at clinically relevant doses, suppresses hepatic glucose production by activating a conserved regulatory pathway encompassing let-7, TET3, and a fetal isoform of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α). We demonstrate that metformin no longer has potent antidiabetic actions in a liver-specific let-7 loss-of-function mouse model and that hepatic delivery of let-7 ameliorates hyperglycemia and improves glucose homeostasis. Our results thus reveal an important role of the hepatic let-7/TET3/HNF4α axis in mediating the therapeutic effects of metformin and suggest that targeting this axis may be a potential therapeutic for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Xie
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Yale Center for Molecular and Systems Metabolism, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
| | - Fan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Bei Shi
- Medical Basic Experimental Teaching Center, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jiahui Song
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Kiran Chaudhari
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Institute for Healthy Aging, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107
| | - Shao-Hua Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Institute for Healthy Aging, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107
| | - Gary J. Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Xiaoli Sun
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Hugh S. Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Da Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Yingqun Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510
- Yale Center for Molecular and Systems Metabolism, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520
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Metformin, phenformin, and galegine inhibit complex IV activity and reduce glycerol-derived gluconeogenesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2122287119. [PMID: 35238637 PMCID: PMC8916010 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2122287119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is the most commonly prescribed drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, yet the mechanism by which it lowers plasma glucose concentrations has remained elusive. Most studies to date have attributed metformin’s glucose-lowering effects to inhibition of complex I activity. Contrary to this hypothesis, we show that inhibition of complex I activity in vitro and in vivo does not reduce plasma glucose concentrations or inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis. We go on to show that metformin, and the related guanides/biguanides, phenformin and galegine, inhibit complex IV activity at clinically relevant concentrations, which, in turn, results in inhibition of glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity, increased cytosolic redox, and selective inhibition of glycerol-derived hepatic gluconeogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. Metformin exerts its plasma glucose-lowering therapeutic effect primarily through inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis. However, the precise molecular mechanism by which metformin inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis is still unclear. Although inhibition of mitochondrial complex I is frequently invoked as metformin’s primary mechanism of action, the metabolic effects of complex I inhibition have not been thoroughly evaluated in vivo. Here, we show that acute portal infusion of piericidin A, a potent and specific complex I inhibitor, does not reduce hepatic gluconeogenesis in vivo. In contrast, we show that metformin, phenformin, and galegine selectively inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis from glycerol. Specifically, we show that guanides/biguanides interact with complex IV to reduce its enzymatic activity, leading to indirect inhibition of glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) dehydrogenase (GPD2), increased cytosolic redox, and reduced glycerol-derived gluconeogenesis. We report that inhibition of complex IV with potassium cyanide replicates the effects of the guanides/biguanides in vitro by selectively reducing glycerol-derived gluconeogenesis via increased cytosolic redox. Finally, we show that complex IV inhibition is sufficient to inhibit G3P-mediated respiration and gluconeogenesis from glycerol. Taken together, we propose a mechanism of metformin action in which complex IV–mediated inhibition of GPD2 reduces glycerol-derived hepatic gluconeogenesis.
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Feng J, Wang X, Ye X, Ares I, Lopez-Torres B, Martínez M, Martínez-Larrañaga MR, Wang X, Anadón A, Martínez MA. Mitochondria as an important target of metformin: The mechanism of action, toxic and side effects, and new therapeutic applications. Pharmacol Res 2022; 177:106114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Mima A. Mitochondria-targeted drugs for diabetic kidney disease. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08878. [PMID: 35265754 PMCID: PMC8899696 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e08878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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Khodadadi M, Jafari-Gharabaghlou D, Zarghami N. An update on mode of action of metformin in modulation of meta-inflammation and inflammaging. Pharmacol Rep 2022; 74:310-322. [PMID: 35067907 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-021-00334-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common chronic metabolic condition. Several genetic and environmental factors are involved in developing T2DM. Aging, inflammation, and obesity are the main contributors to the initiation of T2DM. They cause chronic sterile meta-inflammation and insulin resistance, thereby making a person more susceptible to developing T2DM. Metformin, a natural cationic biguanide, is widely used as the first-line treatment of T2DM. The exact action mechanism behind the glucose-lowering effect of metformin is not clear, but, presumably, metformin utilizes a broad spectrum of molecular mechanisms to control blood glucose including decreasing intestinal glucose absorption, inhibition of the hepatic gluconeogenesis, decreasing insulin resistance, etc. Recent studies have shown that metformin exerts its effects through the inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex 1 and the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, but it has been identified in the other studies that AMPK is not the sole hub in metformin mode of action or there are other unknown mechanisms which are involved and yet to be explored. Therefore, here, we discuss the updated findings of the mechanism of action of metformin that contributes to the meta-inflammation and inflammaging action. It is proposed that figuring out the precise mechanism of action of metformin could improve its application in the fields of obesity, inflammation, aging, and inflammaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meysam Khodadadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Davoud Jafari-Gharabaghlou
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Aydin University, Istanbul, Turkey. .,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Tulipano G. Integrated or Independent Actions of Metformin in Target Tissues Underlying Its Current Use and New Possible Applications in the Endocrine and Metabolic Disorder Area. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13068. [PMID: 34884872 PMCID: PMC8658259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is considered the first-choice drug for type 2 diabetes treatment. Actually, pleiotropic effects of metformin have been recognized, and there is evidence that this drug may have a favorable impact on health beyond its glucose-lowering activity. In summary, despite its long history, metformin is still an attractive research opportunity in the field of endocrine and metabolic diseases, age-related diseases, and cancer. To this end, its mode of action in distinct cell types is still in dispute. The aim of this work was to review the current knowledge and recent findings on the molecular mechanisms underlying the pharmacological effects of metformin in the field of metabolic and endocrine pathologies, including some endocrine tumors. Metformin is believed to act through multiple pathways that can be interconnected or work independently. Moreover, metformin effects on target tissues may be either direct or indirect, which means secondary to the actions on other tissues and consequent alterations at systemic level. Finally, as to the direct actions of metformin at cellular level, the intracellular milieu cooperates to cause differential responses to the drug between distinct cell types, despite the primary molecular targets may be the same within cells. Cellular bioenergetics can be regarded as the primary target of metformin action. Metformin can perturb the cytosolic and mitochondrial NAD/NADH ratio and the ATP/AMP ratio within cells, thus affecting enzymatic activities and metabolic and signaling pathways which depend on redox- and energy balance. In this context, the possible link between pyruvate metabolism and metformin actions is extensively discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Tulipano
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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31
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Ge Y, Zhou M, Chen C, Wu X, Wang X. Role of AMPK mediated pathways in autophagy and aging. Biochimie 2021; 195:100-113. [PMID: 34838647 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AMPK is an important kinase regulating energy homeostasis and also a key protein involved in a variety of signal transduction pathways. It plays a vitally regulatory role in cellular senescence. Activation of AMPK can delay or block the aging process, which is of great significance in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and other aging related diseases, and provides a potential target for new indications such as Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, AMPK signaling pathway plays an important role in aging research. The in-depth study of AMPK activators will provide more new directions for the treatment of age-related maladies and the development of innovative drugs. Autophagy is a process that engulfs and degrades own cytoplasm or organelles. Thereby, meeting the metabolic demands and updating certain organelles of the cell has become a hotspot in the field of anti-aging in recent years. AMPK plays an important role between autophagy and senescence. In our review, the relationship among AMPK signaling, autophagy and aging will be clarified through the interaction between AMPK and mTOR, ULK1, FOXO, p53, SIRT1, and NF -κB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Ge
- School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, 671000, China
| | - Min Zhou
- School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, 671000, China
| | - Cui Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, 671000, China
| | - Xiaojian Wu
- Microbiology Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Science, Nanning, Guangxi Province, 530007, China.
| | - Xiaobo Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, 671000, China; Key Laboratory of University Cell Biology Yunnan Province, Dali, Yunnan, 671000, China.
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Calabrese EJ, Agathokleous E, Kapoor R, Dhawan G, Kozumbo WJ, Calabrese V. Metformin-enhances resilience via hormesis. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 71:101418. [PMID: 34365027 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The present paper demonstrates that metformin (MF) induced a broad spectrum of hormetic biphasic dose responses in a wide range of experimental studies, affecting multiple organ systems, cell types, and endpoints enhancing resilience to chemical stresses in preconditioning and co-current exposure protocols. Detailed mechanistic evaluations indicate that MF-induced hormetic-adaptive responses are mediated often via the activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase (AMPK) protein and its subsequent upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Hormesis-induced protective responses by MF are largely mediated via a vast and highly integrated anti-inflammatory molecular network that enhances longevity and delays the onset and slows the progression of neurodegenerative and other chronic diseases.
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Liu S, Fu S, Wang G, Cao Y, Li L, Li X, Yang J, Li N, Shan Y, Cao Y, Ma Y, Dong M, Liu Q, Jiang H. Glycerol-3-phosphate biosynthesis regenerates cytosolic NAD + to alleviate mitochondrial disease. Cell Metab 2021; 33:1974-1987.e9. [PMID: 34270929 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2021.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Electron transport chain (ETC) dysfunction or hypoxia causes toxic NADH accumulation. How cells regenerate NAD+ under such conditions remains elusive. Here, integrating bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation, we identify glycerol-3-phosphate (Gro3P) biosynthesis as an endogenous NAD+-regeneration pathway. Under genetic or pharmacological ETC inhibition, disrupting Gro3P synthesis inhibits yeast proliferation, shortens lifespan of C. elegans, impairs growth of cancer cells in culture and in xenografts, and causes metabolic derangements in mouse liver. Moreover, the Gro3P shuttle selectively regenerates cytosolic NAD+ under mitochondrial complex I inhibition; enhancing Gro3P synthesis promotes shuttle activity to restore proliferation of complex I-impaired cells. Mouse brain has much lower levels of Gro3P synthesis enzymes as compared with other organs. Strikingly, enhancing Gro3P synthesis suppresses neuroinflammation and extends lifespan in the Ndufs4-/- mice. Collectively, our results reveal Gro3P biosynthesis as an evolutionarily conserved coordinator of NADH/NAD+ redox homeostasis and present a therapeutic target for mitochondrial complex I diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Liu
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Song Fu
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yu Cao
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China; College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Lanlan Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China; College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xuemei Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Jun Yang
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China; School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ning Li
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; College of Life Sciences, China Agriculture University, Beijing 100094, China
| | - Yabing Shan
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yang Cao
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yan Ma
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Mengqiu Dong
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Qinghua Liu
- National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Cell Biology for Animal Aging, Beijing 102206, China; Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing 102206, China.
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Hurley DJ, Irnaten M, O’Brien C. Metformin and Glaucoma-Review of Anti-Fibrotic Processes and Bioenergetics. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082131. [PMID: 34440899 PMCID: PMC8394782 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. With an aging population, disease incidence will rise with an enormous societal and economic burden. The treatment strategy revolves around targeting intraocular pressure, the principle modifiable risk factor, to slow progression of disease. However, there is a clear unmet clinical need to find a novel therapeutic approach that targets and halts the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration that occurs with fibrosis. RGCs are highly sensitive to metabolic fluctuations as a result of multiple stressors and thus their viability depends on healthy mitochondrial functioning. Metformin, known for its use in type 2 diabetes, has come to the forefront of medical research in multiple organ systems. Its use was recently associated with a 25% reduced risk of glaucoma in a large population study. Here, we discuss its application to glaucoma therapy, highlighting its effect on fibrotic signalling pathways, mitochondrial bioenergetics and NAD oxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daire J. Hurley
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles Street, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (M.I.); (C.O.)
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
- Correspondence:
| | - Mustapha Irnaten
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles Street, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (M.I.); (C.O.)
| | - Colm O’Brien
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles Street, D07 R2WY Dublin, Ireland; (M.I.); (C.O.)
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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Krako Jakovljevic N, Pavlovic K, Jotic A, Lalic K, Stoiljkovic M, Lukic L, Milicic T, Macesic M, Stanarcic Gajovic J, Lalic NM. Targeting Mitochondria in Diabetes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6642. [PMID: 34205752 PMCID: PMC8233932 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D), one of the most prevalent noncommunicable diseases, is often preceded by insulin resistance (IR), which underlies the inability of tissues to respond to insulin and leads to disturbed metabolic homeostasis. Mitochondria, as a central player in the cellular energy metabolism, are involved in the mechanisms of IR and T2D. Mitochondrial function is affected by insulin resistance in different tissues, among which skeletal muscle and liver have the highest impact on whole-body glucose homeostasis. This review focuses on human studies that assess mitochondrial function in liver, muscle and blood cells in the context of T2D. Furthermore, different interventions targeting mitochondria in IR and T2D are listed, with a selection of studies using respirometry as a measure of mitochondrial function, for better data comparison. Altogether, mitochondrial respiratory capacity appears to be a metabolic indicator since it decreases as the disease progresses but increases after lifestyle (exercise) and pharmacological interventions, together with the improvement in metabolic health. Finally, novel therapeutics developed to target mitochondria have potential for a more integrative therapeutic approach, treating both causative and secondary defects of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Nebojsa M. Lalic
- Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.K.J.); (K.P.); (A.J.); (K.L.); (M.S.); (L.L.); (T.M.); (M.M.); (J.S.G.)
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The Hormetic Effect of Metformin: "Less Is More"? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126297. [PMID: 34208371 PMCID: PMC8231127 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin (MTF) is the first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The euglycemic effect of MTF is due to the inhibition of hepatic glucose production. Literature reports that the principal molecular mechanism of MTF is the activation of 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) due to the decrement of ATP intracellular content consequent to the inhibition of Complex I, although this effect is obtained only at millimolar concentrations. Conversely, micromolar MTF seems to activate the mitochondrial electron transport chain, increasing ATP production and limiting oxidative stress. This evidence sustains the idea that MTF exerts a hormetic effect based on its concentration in the target tissue. Therefore, in this review we describe the effects of MTF on T2DM on the principal target organs, such as liver, gut, adipose tissue, endothelium, heart, and skeletal muscle. In particular, data indicate that all organs, except the gut, accumulate MTF in the micromolar range when administered in therapeutic doses, unmasking molecular mechanisms that do not depend on Complex I inhibition.
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Faradonbeh FA, Sa II, Lastuvkova H, Cermanova J, Hroch M, Faistova H, Mokry J, Nova Z, Uher M, Nachtigal P, Pavek P, Micuda S. Metformin impairs bile acid homeostasis in ethinylestradiol-induced cholestasis in mice. Chem Biol Interact 2021; 345:109525. [PMID: 34058177 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Metformin, an oral antidiabetic drug, recently demonstrated a reducing effect on bile acids (BA) plasma concentrations in one patient with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) by unknown mechanism. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the effect of metformin on BA homeostasis and related molecular pathways in the liver and intestine using a mouse model of ICP. The cholestasis was induced in female C57BL/6 mice by repeated administration of ethinylestradiol (10 mg/kg BW s.c.) and/or metformin (150 mg/kg BW orally) over 5 consecutive days with subsequent bile collection and molecular analysis of samples. We demonstrated that metformin significantly increased the rate of bile secretion in control mice. This increase was BA dependent and was produced both by increased liver BA synthesis via induced cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (Cyp7a1) and by increased BA reabsorption in the ileum via induction of the apical sodium-dependent BA transporter (Asbt). In contrast, metformin further worsened ethinylestradiol-induced impairment of bile secretion. This reduction was also BA dependent and corresponded with significant downregulation of Bsep, and Ntcp, major excretory and uptake transporters for BA in hepatocytes, respectively. The plasma concentrations of BA were consequently significantly increased in the metformin-treated mice. Altogether, our data indicate positive stimulation of bile secretion by metformin in the intact liver, but this drug also induces serious impairment of BA biliary secretion, with a marked increase in plasma concentrations in estrogen-induced cholestasis. Our results imply that metformin should be used with caution in situations with hormone-dependent cholestasis, such as ICP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Alaei Faradonbeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Ivone Igreja Sa
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Lastuvkova
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Jolana Cermanova
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Milos Hroch
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Faistova
- Department of Pathology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Mokry
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Nova
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Uher
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Nachtigal
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Pavek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Stanislav Micuda
- Department of Pharmacology, Charles University, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
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Interaction between Metformin, Folate and Vitamin B 12 and the Potential Impact on Fetal Growth and Long-Term Metabolic Health in Diabetic Pregnancies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115759. [PMID: 34071182 PMCID: PMC8198407 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is the first-line treatment for many people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) to maintain glycaemic control. Recent evidence suggests metformin can cross the placenta during pregnancy, thereby exposing the fetus to high concentrations of metformin and potentially restricting placental and fetal growth. Offspring exposed to metformin during gestation are at increased risk of being born small for gestational age (SGA) and show signs of ‘catch up’ growth and obesity during childhood which increases their risk of future cardiometabolic diseases. The mechanisms by which metformin impacts on the fetal growth and long-term health of the offspring remain to be established. Metformin is associated with maternal vitamin B12 deficiency and antifolate like activity. Vitamin B12 and folate balance is vital for one carbon metabolism, which is essential for DNA methylation and purine/pyrimidine synthesis of nucleic acids. Folate:vitamin B12 imbalance induced by metformin may lead to genomic instability and aberrant gene expression, thus promoting fetal programming. Mitochondrial aerobic respiration may also be affected, thereby inhibiting placental and fetal growth, and suppressing mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activity for cellular nutrient transport. Vitamin supplementation, before or during metformin treatment in pregnancy, could be a promising strategy to improve maternal vitamin B12 and folate levels and reduce the incidence of SGA births and childhood obesity. Heterogeneous diagnostic and screening criteria for GDM and the transient nature of nutrient biomarkers have led to inconsistencies in clinical study designs to investigate the effects of metformin on folate:vitamin B12 balance and child development. As rates of diabetes in pregnancy continue to escalate, more women are likely to be prescribed metformin; thus, it is of paramount importance to improve our understanding of metformin’s transgenerational effects to develop prophylactic strategies for the prevention of adverse fetal outcomes.
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Wijngaard R, Perramón M, Parra-Robert M, Hidalgo S, Butrico G, Morales-Ruiz M, Zeng M, Casals E, Jiménez W, Fernández-Varo G, Shulman GI, Cline GW, Casals G. Validation of a Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Method for the Measurement of the Redox State Metabolic Ratios Lactate/Pyruvate and β-Hydroxybutyrate/Acetoacetate in Biological Samples. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4752. [PMID: 33946157 PMCID: PMC8125771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The metabolic ratios lactate/pyruvate and β-hydroxybutyrate/acetoacetate are considered valuable tools to evaluate the in vivo redox cellular state by estimating the free NAD+/NADH in cytoplasm and mitochondria, respectively. The aim of the current study was to validate a gas-chromatography mass spectrometry method for simultaneous determination of the four metabolites in plasma and liver tissue. The procedure included an o-phenylenediamine microwave-assisted derivatization, followed by liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate and silylation with bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide:trimethylchlorosilane 99:1. The calibration curves presented acceptable linearity, with a limit of quantification of 0.001 mM for pyruvate, β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate and of 0.01 mM for lactate. The intra-day and inter-day accuracy and precision were within the European Medicines Agency's Guideline specifications. No significant differences were observed in the slope coefficient of three-point standard metabolite-spiked curves in plasma or liver and water, and acceptable recoveries were obtained in the metabolite-spiked samples. Applicability of the method was tested in precision-cut liver rat slices and also in HepG2 cells incubated under different experimental conditions challenging the redox state. In conclusion, the validated method presented good sensitivity, specificity and reproducibility in the quantification of lactate/pyruvate and β-hydroxybutyrate/acetate metabolites and may be useful in the evaluation of in vivo redox states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Wijngaard
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
| | - Meritxell Perramón
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
| | - Marina Parra-Robert
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
| | - Susana Hidalgo
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
| | - Gina Butrico
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (G.B.); (G.I.S.); (G.W.C.)
| | - Manuel Morales-Ruiz
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Working Group for the Biochemical Assessment of Hepatic Disease-SEQCML, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Muling Zeng
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, 99 Yingbing Middle Rd., Jiangmen 529020, China; (M.Z.); (E.C.)
| | - Eudald Casals
- School of Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Wuyi University, 99 Yingbing Middle Rd., Jiangmen 529020, China; (M.Z.); (E.C.)
| | - Wladimiro Jiménez
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guillermo Fernández-Varo
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gerald I. Shulman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (G.B.); (G.I.S.); (G.W.C.)
| | - Gary W. Cline
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; (G.B.); (G.I.S.); (G.W.C.)
| | - Gregori Casals
- Service of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Hospital Clinic Universitari, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Carrer de Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (R.W.); (M.P.); (M.P.-R.); (S.H.); (M.M.-R.); (W.J.)
- Working Group for the Biochemical Assessment of Hepatic Disease-SEQCML, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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Cuyàs E, Verdura S, Martin-Castillo B, Menendez JA. Metformin: Targeting the Metabolo-Epigenetic Link in Cancer Biology. Front Oncol 2021; 10:620641. [PMID: 33604300 PMCID: PMC7884859 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.620641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolism can directly drive or indirectly enable an aberrant chromatin state of cancer cells. The physiological and molecular principles of the metabolic link to epigenetics provide a basis for pharmacological modulation with the anti-diabetic biguanide metformin. Here, we briefly review how metabolite-derived chromatin modifications and the metabolo-epigenetic machinery itself are both amenable to modification by metformin in a local and a systemic manner. First, we consider the capacity of metformin to target global metabolic pathways or specific metabolic enzymes producing chromatin-modifying metabolites. Second, we examine its ability to directly or indirectly fine-tune the activation status of chromatin-modifying enzymes. Third, we envision how the interaction between metformin, diet and gut microbiota might systemically regulate the metabolic inputs to chromatin. Experimental and clinical validation of metformin's capacity to change the functional outcomes of the metabolo-epigenetic link could offer a proof-of-concept to therapeutically test the metabolic adjustability of the epigenomic landscape of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Cuyàs
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute, Girona, Spain.,Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism & Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Spain
| | - Sara Verdura
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute, Girona, Spain.,Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism & Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Spain
| | - Begoña Martin-Castillo
- Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism & Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Clinical Research, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Spain
| | - Javier A Menendez
- Girona Biomedical Research Institute, Girona, Spain.,Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Metabolism & Cancer Group, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Girona, Spain
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41
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LaMoia TE, Shulman GI. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Metformin Action. Endocr Rev 2021; 42:77-96. [PMID: 32897388 PMCID: PMC7846086 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 307] [Impact Index Per Article: 102.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Metformin is a first-line therapy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, due to its robust glucose-lowering effects, well-established safety profile, and relatively low cost. While metformin has been shown to have pleotropic effects on glucose metabolism, there is a general consensus that the major glucose-lowering effect in patients with type 2 diabetes is mostly mediated through inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis. However, despite decades of research, the mechanism by which metformin inhibits this process is still highly debated. A key reason for these discrepant effects is likely due to the inconsistency in dosage of metformin across studies. Widely studied mechanisms of action, such as complex I inhibition leading to AMPK activation, have only been observed in the context of supra-pharmacological (>1 mM) metformin concentrations, which do not occur in the clinical setting. Thus, these mechanisms have been challenged in recent years and new mechanisms have been proposed. Based on the observation that metformin alters cellular redox balance, a redox-dependent mechanism of action has been described by several groups. Recent studies have shown that clinically relevant (50-100 μM) concentrations of metformin inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis in a substrate-selective manner both in vitro and in vivo, supporting a redox-dependent mechanism of metformin action. Here, we review the current literature regarding metformin's cellular and molecular mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Traci E LaMoia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Gerald I Shulman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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42
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Demaré S, Kothari A, Calcutt NA, Fernyhough P. Metformin as a potential therapeutic for neurological disease: mobilizing AMPK to repair the nervous system. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 21:45-63. [PMID: 33161784 PMCID: PMC9482886 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1847645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Metformin is currently first line therapy for type 2 diabetes (T2D). The mechanism of action of metformin involves activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) to enhance mitochondrial function (for example, biogenesis, refurbishment and dynamics) and autophagy. Many neurodegenerative diseases of the central and peripheral nervous systems arise from metabolic failure and toxic protein aggregation where activated AMPK could prove protective. Areas covered: The authors review literature on metformin treatment in Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and other neurological diseases of the CNS along with neuroprotective effects of AMPK activation and suppression of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway on peripheral neuropathy and neuropathic pain. The authors compare the efficacy of metformin with the actions of resveratrol. Expert opinion: Metformin, through activation of AMPK and autophagy, can enhance neuronal bioenergetics, promote nerve repair and reduce toxic protein aggregates in neurological diseases. A long history of safe use in humans should encourage development of metformin and other AMPK activators in preclinical and clinical research. Future studies in animal models of neurological disease should strive to further dissect in a mechanistic manner the pathways downstream from metformin-dependent AMPK activation, and to further investigate mTOR dependent and independent signaling pathways driving neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Demaré
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre , Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba , Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Asha Kothari
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre , Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba , Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Nigel A Calcutt
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego , La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Paul Fernyhough
- Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders, St Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre , Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba , Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Ford BE, Chachra SS, Alshawi A, Brennan A, Harnor S, Cano C, Baker DJ, Smith DM, Fairclough RJ, Agius L. Chronic glucokinase activator treatment activates liver Carbohydrate response element binding protein and improves hepatocyte ATP homeostasis during substrate challenge. Diabetes Obes Metab 2020; 22:1985-1994. [PMID: 32519798 DOI: 10.1111/dom.14111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
AIM To test the hypothesis that glucokinase activators (GKAs) induce hepatic adaptations that alter intra-hepatocyte metabolite homeostasis. METHODS C57BL/6 mice on a standard rodent diet were treated with a GKA (AZD1656) acutely or chronically. Hepatocytes were isolated from the mice after 4 or 8 weeks of treatment for analysis of cellular metabolites and gene expression in response to substrate challenge. RESULTS Acute exposure of mice to AZD1656 or a liver-selective GKA (PF-04991532), before a glucose tolerance test, or challenge of mouse hepatocytes with GKAs ex vivo induced various Carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP) target genes, including Carbohydrate response element binding protein beta isoform (ChREBP-β), Gckr and G6pc. Both glucokinase activation and ChREBP target gene induction by PF-04991532 were dependent on the chirality of the molecule, confirming a mechanism linked to glucokinase activation. Hepatocytes from mice treated with AZD1656 for 4 or 8 weeks had lower basal glucose 6-phosphate levels and improved ATP homeostasis during high substrate challenge. They also had raised basal ChREBP-β mRNA and AMPK-α mRNA (Prkaa1, Prkaa2) and progressively attenuated substrate induction of some ChREBP target genes and Prkaa1 and Prkaa2. CONCLUSIONS Chronic GKA treatment of C57BL/6 mice for 8 weeks activates liver ChREBP and improves the resilience of hepatocytes to compromised ATP homeostasis during high-substrate challenge. These changes are associated with raised mRNA levels of ChREBP-β and both catalytic subunits of AMP-activated protein kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian E Ford
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Medical School, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Shruti S Chachra
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Medical School, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ahmed Alshawi
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Medical School, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Alfie Brennan
- Newcastle Drug Discovery, Newcastle Centre for Cancer, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Suzannah Harnor
- Newcastle Drug Discovery, Newcastle Centre for Cancer, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Celine Cano
- Newcastle Drug Discovery, Newcastle Centre for Cancer, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - David J Baker
- Bioscience, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - David M Smith
- Emerging Innovations Unit, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rebecca J Fairclough
- Emerging Innovations Unit, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Loranne Agius
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Medical School, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Ma R, Yi B, Riker AI, Xi Y. Metformin and cancer immunity. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2020; 41:1403-1409. [PMID: 32868904 PMCID: PMC7656961 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-00508-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system plays an essential and central role in tumor cell differentiation, proliferation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. Over the past decade, cancer therapy has rapidly evolved from traditional approaches, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, to revolutionary new treatment options with immunotherapy. This new era of cancer treatment options has now been clinically tested and applied to many forms of human malignancies, often with quite dramatic results. As we develop more effective combinations of cancer treatment, several agents have been recently investigated, putatively identified as anticancer agents, or immunostimulatory molecules. One such agent is metformin, originally developed as a fairly standard first-line therapy for patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Given the underlying mechanisms of action, researchers began to examine the alternative functions and possible utility of metformin, finding that the cancer risk in patients with T2DM was reduced. It appears that metformin, at least in part, has an antitumor effect through activation of the 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway. Moreover, numerous studies have demonstrated that metformin interferes with key immunopathological mechanisms that are involved in the pathological processes or associated with malignant progression. Such insights may shed light on further analyzing whether metformin enhances the effectiveness of the immunotherapy and overcomes the immunotherapy resistance in the patients. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the literature examining the impact of metformin upon the host immune system and cancer immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixia Ma
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221000, China
| | - Bin Yi
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Adam I Riker
- Geaton and JoAnn DeCesaris Cancer Institute, Anne Arundel Medical Center, Luminis Health, Annapolis, MD, USA.
| | - Yaguang Xi
- Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
- Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
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45
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Metformin and Systemic Metabolism. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:868-881. [PMID: 32994049 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Metformin can improve patients' hyperglycemia through significant suppression of hepatic glucose production. However, up to 300 times higher concentrations of metformin accumulate in the intestine than in the circulation, where it alters nutrient metabolism in intestinal epithelial cells and microbiome, leading to increased lactate production. Hepatocytes use lactate to make glucose at the cost of energy expenditure, creating a futile intestine-liver cycle. Furthermore, metformin reduces blood lipopolysaccharides and its initiated low-grade inflammation and increased oxidative phosphorylation in liver and adipose tissues. These metformin effects result in the improvement of insulin sensitivity and glucose utilization in extrahepatic tissues. In this review, I discuss the current understanding of the impact of metformin on systemic metabolism and its molecular mechanisms of action in various tissues.
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Tulipano G, Paghera S, Missale C, Giustina A. Differential effects of metformin on reductive activity and energy production in pituitary tumor cells compared to myogenic precursors. Endocrine 2020; 69:604-614. [PMID: 32557328 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02373-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Given the multiple targets of metformin within cells, the mechanism by which it may exert a growth-inhibitory action on pituitary tumor cells in vitro remains to be explored. Previous research stressed metformin-induced changes in the activity of signaling pathways regulating cell growth and cell death. In this work, we investigated the effects of metformin on cell viability markers related to cell metabolic activity in rat pituitary tumor cells versus rat myogenic precursors as a model of normal proliferating somatic cells. METHODS We designed our experiments in order to use the MTT reduction as a marker of cellular reductive activity and the total cellular ATP levels as a marker of energy supply during short incubations with different metabolic substrates (sodium pyruvate, D-glucose, L-glutamine, sodium citrate). Then, we extended the analysis to extracellular glucose consumption, extracellular medium acidification and pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) complex activity. RESULTS Metformin was found to be effective in both cell types at the same concentrations, although the outcome of the treatment was quite the opposite. Unexpectedly, metformin increased the viability of subconfluent rat myoblasts. Rat pituitary tumor cells and myoblasts differed in the utilization of distinct metabolic substrates and the PDH complex activity. Metformin actions on reductive activity and ATP production were substrate-dependent. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this work points out that metformin actions at the cellular level depend on metabolic features and metabolic requirements of cells. The pyruvate metabolic branch point is most likely to play a main role in the variability of cell response to metformin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Tulipano
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Simone Paghera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Cristina Missale
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Giustina
- San Raffaele Vita- Salute University - Head, Division of Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Segrate, Italy
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Ramos JS, Dalleck LC, Keith CE, Fennell M, Lee Z, Drummond C, Keating SE, Fassett RG, Coombes JS. Optimizing the Interaction of Exercise Volume and Metformin to Induce a Clinically Significant Reduction in Metabolic Syndrome Severity: A Randomised Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17103695. [PMID: 32456272 PMCID: PMC7277162 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Insulin resistance is a central mediating factor of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), with exercise training and metformin proven antidotes to insulin resistance. However, when the two therapies are combined there is conflicting data regarding whether metformin blunts or improves exercise training-induced adaptations. The volume of exercise (duration, intensity, and frequency) on the interaction of exercise training and metformin has yet to be investigated. The aim of this study is therefore to explore the impact of a combination of different exercise volumes and metformin on MetS severity. This is a secondary analysis of data from one of the sites of the ‘Exercise in Prevention of Metabolic Syndrome’ (EX-MET) study. Ninety-nine adults with MetS were randomized into a 16-week exercise program completing either: (i) moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) at 60–70% of peak heart rate (HRpeak) for 30 min/session (n = 34, 150 min/week); (ii) high-volume high-intensity interval training (HIIT) consisting of 4 × 4 min bouts at 85–95% HRpeak, interspersed with 3 min of active recovery at 50–70% HRpeak (n = 34, 38 min/session, 114 min/week); or (iii) low volume HIIT, 1 × 4 min bout of HIIT at 85–95% HRpeak (n = 31, 17 min/session, 51 min/week). Metformin intake was monitored and recorded throughout the trial. MetS severity was calculated as z-scores derived from MetS risk factors assessed at pre- and post-intervention. Sixty-five participants had complete pre- and post-intervention data for MetS z-score, of which 18 participants (28%) were taking metformin. Over the 16-week intervention, a similar proportion of participants clinically improved MetS severity (Δ ≥ −0.87) with metformin (8/18, 44%) or without metformin (23/47, 49%) (p = 0.75). While there were no between-group differences (p = 0.24), in those who did not take metformin low-volume HIIT had more likely responders (10/15, 67%) compared to MICT (6/16, 38%) and high-volume HIIT (7/16, 44%). In those taking metformin, there was a lower proportion of participants who clinically improved MetS severity following high-volume HIIT (1/6, 17%) compared to MICT (2/4, 50%) and low-volume HIIT (5/8, 63%), but with no between-group difference (p = 0.23). Moreover, in those who performed high-volume HIIT, there was a statistically significantly higher proportion (p = 0.03) of likely non-responders with improved MetS severity in participants taking metformin (4/6, 67%) compared to those not taking metformin (3/16, 19%). In individuals with MetS, the effect of high volume HIIT on MetS severity may be blunted in those taking metformin. These findings need to be confirmed in a larger study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce S. Ramos
- Caring Futures Institute & SHAPE Research Centre, Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Room S268, South Wing, Sturt Building, Bedford Park, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia; (L.C.D.); (C.E.K.); (M.F.); (Z.L.); (C.D.)
- Centre for Research on Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (S.E.K.); (R.G.F.); (J.S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-435-942-505
| | - Lance C. Dalleck
- Caring Futures Institute & SHAPE Research Centre, Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Room S268, South Wing, Sturt Building, Bedford Park, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia; (L.C.D.); (C.E.K.); (M.F.); (Z.L.); (C.D.)
- Recreation, Exercise, and Sport Science Department, Western Colorado University, Gunnison, CO 81231, USA
| | - Caitlin E. Keith
- Caring Futures Institute & SHAPE Research Centre, Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Room S268, South Wing, Sturt Building, Bedford Park, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia; (L.C.D.); (C.E.K.); (M.F.); (Z.L.); (C.D.)
| | - Mackenzie Fennell
- Caring Futures Institute & SHAPE Research Centre, Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Room S268, South Wing, Sturt Building, Bedford Park, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia; (L.C.D.); (C.E.K.); (M.F.); (Z.L.); (C.D.)
| | - Zoe Lee
- Caring Futures Institute & SHAPE Research Centre, Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Room S268, South Wing, Sturt Building, Bedford Park, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia; (L.C.D.); (C.E.K.); (M.F.); (Z.L.); (C.D.)
| | - Claire Drummond
- Caring Futures Institute & SHAPE Research Centre, Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Room S268, South Wing, Sturt Building, Bedford Park, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia; (L.C.D.); (C.E.K.); (M.F.); (Z.L.); (C.D.)
| | - Shelley E. Keating
- Centre for Research on Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (S.E.K.); (R.G.F.); (J.S.C.)
| | - Robert G. Fassett
- Centre for Research on Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (S.E.K.); (R.G.F.); (J.S.C.)
| | - Jeff S. Coombes
- Centre for Research on Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (S.E.K.); (R.G.F.); (J.S.C.)
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Lu J, Xu Z, Duan H, Ji H, Zhen Z, Li B, Wang H, Tang H, Zhou J, Guo T, Wu B, Wang D, Liu Y, Niu Y, Zhang R. Tumor-associated macrophage interleukin-β promotes glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activation, glycolysis and tumorigenesis in glioma cells. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:1979-1990. [PMID: 32259365 PMCID: PMC7293068 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-immune crosstalk within the tumor microenvironment (TME) occurs at all stages of tumorigenesis. Tumor-associated M2 macrophages play a central role in tumor development, but the molecular underpinnings have not been fully elucidated. We demonstrated that M2 macrophages produce interleukin 1β (IL-1β), which activates phosphorylation of the glycolytic enzyme glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPD2) at threonine 10 (GPD2 pT10) through phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase-mediated activation of protein kinase-delta (PKCδ) in glioma cells. GPD2 pT10 enhanced its substrate affinity and increased the catalytic rate of glycolysis in glioma cells. Inhibiting PKCδ or GPD2 pT10 in glioma cells or blocking IL-1β generated by macrophages attenuated the glycolytic rate and proliferation of glioma cells. Furthermore, human glioblastoma tumor GPD2 pT10 levels were positively correlated with tumor p-PKCδ and IL-1β levels as well as intratumoral macrophage recruitment, tumor grade and human glioblastoma patient survival. These results reveal a novel tumorigenic role for M2 macrophages in the TME. In addition, these findings suggest possible treatment strategies for glioma patients through blockade of cytokine crosstalk between M2 macrophages and glioma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zhongye Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Huizhou, China
| | - Hubin Duan
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hongming Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zigang Zhen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Huangsuo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Huoquan Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Department of Central Laboratory, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Dawei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yueting Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yuhu Niu
- Biochemical Laboratory in Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ruisheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of TISCO, Taiyuan, China
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Metformin: Sentinel of the Epigenetic Landscapes That Underlie Cell Fate and Identity. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10050780. [PMID: 32443566 PMCID: PMC7277648 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050780] [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: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The biguanide metformin is the first drug to be tested as a gerotherapeutic in the clinical trial TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin). The current consensus is that metformin exerts indirect pleiotropy on core metabolic hallmarks of aging, such as the insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 and AMP-activated protein kinase/mammalian Target Of Rapamycin signaling pathways, downstream of its primary inhibitory effect on mitochondrial respiratory complex I. Alternatively, but not mutually exclusive, metformin can exert regulatory effects on components of the biologic machinery of aging itself such as chromatin-modifying enzymes. An integrative metabolo-epigenetic outlook supports a new model whereby metformin operates as a guardian of cell identity, capable of retarding cellular aging by preventing the loss of the information-theoretic nature of the epigenome. The ultimate anti-aging mechanism of metformin might involve the global preservation of the epigenome architecture, thereby ensuring cell fate commitment and phenotypic outcomes despite the challenging effects of aging noise. Metformin might therefore inspire the development of new gerotherapeutics capable of preserving the epigenome architecture for cell identity. Such gerotherapeutics should replicate the ability of metformin to halt the erosion of the epigenetic landscape, mitigate the loss of cell fate commitment, delay stochastic/environmental DNA methylation drifts, and alleviate cellular senescence. Yet, it remains a challenge to confirm if regulatory changes in higher-order genomic organizers can connect the capacity of metformin to dynamically regulate the three-dimensional nature of epigenetic landscapes with the 4th dimension, the aging time.
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Agius L, Ford BE, Chachra SS. The Metformin Mechanism on Gluconeogenesis and AMPK Activation: The Metabolite Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093240. [PMID: 32375255 PMCID: PMC7247334 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin therapy lowers blood glucose in type 2 diabetes by targeting various pathways including hepatic gluconeogenesis. Despite widespread clinical use of metformin the molecular mechanisms by which it inhibits gluconeogenesis either acutely through allosteric and covalent mechanisms or chronically through changes in gene expression remain debated. Proposed mechanisms include: inhibition of Complex 1; activation of AMPK; and mechanisms independent of both Complex 1 inhibition and AMPK. The activation of AMPK by metformin could be consequent to Complex 1 inhibition and raised AMP through the canonical adenine nucleotide pathway or alternatively by activation of the lysosomal AMPK pool by other mechanisms involving the aldolase substrate fructose 1,6-bisphosphate or perturbations in the lysosomal membrane. Here we review current interpretations of the effects of metformin on hepatic intermediates of the gluconeogenic and glycolytic pathway and the candidate mechanistic links to regulation of gluconeogenesis. In conditions of either glucose excess or gluconeogenic substrate excess, metformin lowers hexose monophosphates by mechanisms that are independent of AMPK-activation and most likely mediated by allosteric activation of phosphofructokinase-1 and/or inhibition of fructose bisphosphatase-1. The metabolite changes caused by metformin may also have a prominent role in counteracting G6pc gene regulation in conditions of compromised intracellular homeostasis.
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