Receptor-dependent transcriptional activation of cytochrome P4503A genes: induction mechanisms, species differences and interindividual variation in man

Effect of recombinant CYP3A4 variants and interaction on imatinib metabolism in vitro

The aim of this study was to investigate the catalytic activity of 26 Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) variants and drug interactions on imatinib metabolism in recombinant insect microsomes. This study was designed with an appropriate incubation system and carried out in the constant temperature water. By using ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) to measure the quantities of its metabolite N-desmethyl imatinib, to elucidate the impacts of the CYP3A4 genetic polymorphism and drug interactions on the metabolism of imatinib. Consequently, as compared to CYP3A4.1, the intrinsic clearance (CLint) values of the variations were dramatically changed, rising from 2.34 % to 120.57 %. CYP3A4.14 showed an increase in CLint in comparison to CYP3A4.1, and the remaining 24 variants demonstrated decreases in catalytic activity for the metabolism of imatinib. In addition, the metabolism of imatinib was decreased to varied degrees by ketoconazole, itraconazole, and fluconazole in CYP3A4.1 and CYP3A4.18. Moreover, most of CYP3A4 variants showed similar trend of enzyme activity under different substrates of imatinib and cabozantinib, except 6 variants (CYP3A4.3,.4,.10,.15,.29 and.31). The first study of the effects of 26 CYP3A4 variants on imatinib metabolism will contribute to the clinical evaluation of imatinib and help personalize therapy in clinical settings.

The effect of new atypical antipsychotic drugs on the expression of transcription factors regulating cytochrome P450 enzymes in rat liver

BACKGROUND

Our recent studies showed that prolonged administration of novel atypical antipsychotics affected the expression and activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP), as demonstrated in vitro on human hepatocytes and in vivo on the rat liver. The aim of the present work was to study the effect of repeated treatment with asenapine, iloperidone, and lurasidone on the expression of transcription factors regulating CYP drug-metabolizing enzymes in rat liver.

METHODS

The hepatic mRNA (qRT-PCR) and protein levels (Western blotting) of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), pregnane X receptor (PXR), constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ) were measured in male Wistar rats after 2 week-treatment with asenapine, iloperidone or lurasidone.

RESULTS

The 2-week treatment with asenapine significantly diminished the AhR and PXR expression (mRNA, protein level), and CAR mRNA level in rat liver. Iloperidone lowered the AhR and CAR expression and PXR protein level. Lurasidone did not affect the expression of AhR and CAR, but increased PXR expression. The antipsychotics did not affect PPARγ.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged treatment with asenapine, iloperidone, or lurasidone affects the expression of transcription factors regulating the CYP drug-metabolizing enzymes. The changes in the expression of AhR, CAR, and PXR mostly correlate with alterations in the expression and activity of respective CYP enzymes found in our previous studies. Since these transcription factors are also engaged in the expression of phase II drug metabolism and drug transporters, changes in their expression may affect the metabolism of endogenous substrates and pharmacokinetics of concomitantly used drugs.

Humanization of SLCO2B1 in Rats Increases rCYP3A1 Protein Expression but Not the Metabolism of Erlotinib to OSI-420

The organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP)2B1 [(gene: solute carrier organic anion transporter family member 2B1 (SLCO2B1)] is an uptake transporter that facilitates cellular accumulation of its substrates. Comparison of SLCO2B1+/+ knockin and rSlco2b1-/- knockout rats showed a higher expression of rCYP3A1 in the humanized animals. We hypothesize that humanization of OATP2B1 not only affects cellular uptake but also metabolic activity. To further investigate this hypothesis, we used SLCO2B1+/+ and rSlco2b1-/ - rats and the OATP2B1 and rCYP3A1 substrate erlotinib, which is metabolized to OSI-420, for in vivo and ex vivo experiments. One hour after administration of a single dose of erlotinib, the knockin rats exhibited significantly lower erlotinib serum levels, but no change was observed in metabolite concentration or the OSI-420/erlotinib ratio. Similar results were obtained for liver tissue levels comparing SLCO2B1+/+ and rSlco2b1-/- rats. Liver microsomes isolated from the erlotinib-treated animals were characterized ex vivo for rCYP3A activity using testosterone, showing higher activity in the knockin rats. The contrary was observed when microsomes isolated from treatment-naïve animals were assessed for the metabolism of erlotinib to OSI-420. The latter is in contrast to the higher rCYP3A1 protein amount observed by western blot analysis in rat liver lysates and liver microsomes isolated from untreated rats. In summary, rats humanized for OATP2B1 showed higher expression of rCYP3A1 in liver and reduced serum levels of erlotinib but no change in the OSI-420/erlotinib ratio despite a lower OSI-420 formation in isolated liver microsomes. Studies with CYP3A-specific substrates are warranted to evaluate whether humanization affects not only rCYP3A1 expression but also metabolic activity in vivo. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Humanization of rats for the organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP)2B1 increases rCYP3A1 expression and activity in liver. Using the OATP2B1/CYP3A-substrate erlotinib to assess the resulting phenotype, we observed lower erlotinib serum and liver concentrations but no impact on the liver/serum ratio. Moreover, there was no difference in the OSI-420/erlotinib ratio comparing humanized and knockout rats, suggesting that OSI-420 is not applicable to monitor differences in rCYP3A1 expression as supported by data from ex vivo experiments with rat liver microsomes.

Inflammatory liver tissue formation using oxygen permeable membrane based culture platform

During chronic liver injury, inflammation leads to liver fibrosis, particularly due to the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The involvement of inflammatory cytokines in HSC activation and the interplay among different liver cells are elaborated. To examine their interactions in vitro, many cultured liver tissue models are performed in organoid or spheroid culture with random 3D structure. Herein, we demonstrated the hierarchical coculture of primary rat hepatocytes with non-parenchymal cells such as the human-derived HSC line (LX-2) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cell line (TMNK-1). The cocultured tissue had high usability with simple operation of separating solid and liquid phases with improved liver functions such as albumin production and hepatic cytochrome P450 3A4 activity. We also studied the effects of stimulation by both oxygen tension and the key pro-fibrogenic cytokine, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), on HSC activation. Gene expression of collagen type I and alpha-smooth muscle actin were enhanced in the hierarchical coculture under lower oxygen tension and TGF-β1 stimulation. Therefore, this hierarchical in vitro cocultured liver tissue could provide a useful platform as a disease model for elucidating the interactions of various liver cell types and biochemical signals in future liver fibrogenesis studies.

The Role of CYP3A in Health and Disease

CYP3A is an enzyme subfamily in the cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily and includes isoforms CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP3A7, and CYP3A43. CYP3A enzymes are indiscriminate toward substrates and are unique in that these enzymes metabolize both endogenous compounds and diverse xenobiotics (including drugs); almost the only common characteristic of these compounds is lipophilicity and a relatively large molecular weight. CYP3A enzymes are widely expressed in human organs and tissues, and consequences of these enzymes' activities play a major role both in normal regulation of physiological levels of endogenous compounds and in various pathological conditions. This review addresses these aspects of regulation of CYP3A enzymes under physiological conditions and their involvement in the initiation and progression of diseases.

Tacrolimus Population Pharmacokinetic Model in Adult Chinese Patients with Nephrotic Syndrome and Dosing Regimen Identification Using Monte Carlo Simulations

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to establish a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model of tacrolimus for Chinese patients with nephrotic syndrome using the patient's genotype and Wuzhi capsule dosage as the main test factors.

METHODS

Ninety-six adult patients with nephrotic syndrome, who were receiving tacrolimus treatment, were enrolled. A nonlinear mixed-effects model was used to determine the influencing factors of interindividual tacrolimus metabolism variation and establish a PPK model. To optimize the tacrolimus dosage, 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations were performed.

RESULTS

The 1-chamber model of first-order absorption and elimination was the most suitable model for the data in this study. The typical population tacrolimus clearance (CL/F) value was 16.9 L/h. The percent relative standard error (RSE%) of CL/F was 12%. Increased Wuzhi capsule and albumin doses both decreased the tacrolimus CL/F. In CYP3A5 homozygous mutation carriers, the CL/F was 39% lower than that of carriers of the wild-type and heterozygous mutation. The tacrolimus CL/F in patients who were coadministered glucocorticoids was 1.23-fold higher than that of the control. According to the patient genotype and combined use of glucocorticoids, 26 combinations of Wuzhi capsule and tacrolimus doses were matched. The Monte Carlo simulation identified the most suitable combination scheme.

CONCLUSIONS

An improved tacrolimus PPK model for patients with nephrotic syndrome was established, and the most suitable combination of Wuzhi capsule and tacrolimus doses was identified, thus, facilitating the selection of a more economical and safe administration regimen.

The impact of noradrenergic neurotoxin DSP-4 and noradrenaline transporter knockout (NET-KO) on the activity of liver cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) in male and female mice

Background

Our earlier studies have shown that the brain noradrenergic system regulates cytochrome P450 (CYP) in rat liver via neuroendocrine mechanism. In the present work, a comparative study on the effect of intraperitoneal administration of the noradrenergic neurotoxin DSP-4 and the knockout of noradrenaline transporter (NET-KO) on the CYP3A in the liver of male and female mice was performed.

Methods

The experiments were conducted on C57BL/6J WT and NET^–/– male/female mice. DSP-4 was injected intraperitoneally as a single dose (50 mg/kg ip.) to WT mice. The activity of CYP3A was measured as the rate of 6β-hydroxylation of testosterone in liver microsomes. The CYP3A protein level was estimated by Western blotting.

Results

DSP-4 evoked a selective decrease in the noradrenaline level in the brain of male and female mice. At the same time, DSP-4 reduced the CYP3A activity in males, but not in females. The level of CYP3A protein was not changed. The NET knockout did not affect the CYP3A activity/protein in both sexes.

Conclusions

The results with DSP-4 treated mice showed sex-dependent differences in the regulation of liver CYP3A by the brain noradrenergic system (with only males being responsive), and revealed that the NET knockout did not affect CYP3A in both sexes. Further studies into the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal hormones in DSP-4 treated mice may explain sex-specific differences in CYP3A regulation, whereas investigation of monoaminergic receptor sensitivity in the hypothalamic/pituitary areas of NET^–/– mice will allow for understanding a lack of changes in the CYP3A activity in the NET-KO animals.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43440-022-00406-8.

Genetic Diversity of CYP3A5 and ABCB1 Variants in East-Central and South European Populations

BACKGROUND

CYP3A5 enzyme encoded by CYP3A5 is important for drug metabolism in gut and liver, whereas P-glycoprotein by ABCB1, is an ATP-dependent drug efflux pump which exports endo- and exogenous substances outside the cell. Aim: The study was to assess the prevalence of CYP3A5 alleles: *1, *2, *3, *4, *6 and *7, and C and T of ABCB1 in Poles, Belarusians and Bosnians and to compare it with the data reported from other European populations. Subjects and methods: Overall, 511 unrelated healthy subjects from Poland (n = 239), Belarus (n = 104) and Bosnia and Herzegovina (n = 168) were included in this study. Allele frequencies and statistical parameters (AMOVA version 2.9.3) were determined. Results: In Poles, Belarusians and Bosnians the *3 allele of CYP3A5 was the most common, and wild-type allele *1, were: 5.8%, 1.6% and 2.1%, respectively. Allele *2 was very rare, and alleles *4, *6 and *7 were not detected. For the populations mentioned above, the ABCB1 allele C was: 48.1%, 51.4%, 52.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In compared populations, the distribution of CYP3A5 variants but not ABCB1, differed significantly. Alleles *4, *6 and *7 of CYP3A5 did not occur or occurred rarely.

Pregnane X Receptor and the Gut-Liver Axis: A Recent Update

It is well-known that the pregnane X receptor (PXR)/Nr1i2 is a critical xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptor enriched in liver and intestine and is responsible for drug-drug interactions, due to its versatile ligand binding domain (LBD) and target genes involved in xenobiotic biotransformation. PXR can be modulated by various xenobiotics including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, dietary factors, and environmental chemicals. Microbial metabolites such as certain secondary bile acids (BAs) and the tryptophan metabolite indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) are endogenous PXR activators. Gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as an important regulator for host xenobiotic biotransformation and intermediary metabolism. PXR regulates and is regulated by the gut-liver axis. This review summarizes recent research advancements leveraging pharmaco- and toxico-metagenomic approaches that have redefined the previous understanding of PXR. Key topics covered in this review include: (1) genome-wide investigations on novel PXR-target genes, novel PXR-DNA interaction patterns, and novel PXR-targeted intestinal bacteria; (2) key PXR-modulating activators and suppressors of exogenous and endogenous sources; (3) novel bidirectional interactions between PXR and gut microbiome under physiologic, pathophysiological, pharmacological, and toxicological conditions; and (4) modifying factors of PXR-signaling including species and sex differences and time (age, critical windows of exposure, and circadian rhythm). The review also discusses critical knowledge gaps and important future research topics centering around PXR. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review summarizes recent research advancements leveraging O'mics approaches that have redefined the previous understanding of the xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptor pregnane X receptor (PXR). Key topics include: (1) genome-wide investigations on novel PXR-targeted host genes and intestinal bacteria as well as novel PXR-DNA interaction patterns; (2) key PXR modulators including microbial metabolites under physiological, pathophysiological, pharmacological, and toxicological conditions; and (3) modifying factors including species, sex, and time.

The mechanisms of interactions of psychotropic drugs with liver and brain cytochrome P450 and their significance for drug effect and drug-drug interactions

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) plays an important role in psychopharmacology. While liver CYP enzymes are responsible for the biotransformation of psychotropic drugs, brain CYP enzymes are involved in the local metabolism of these drugs and endogenous neuroactive substances, such as neurosteroids, and in alternative pathways of neurotransmitter biosynthesis including dopamine and serotonin. Recent studies have revealed a relation between the brain nervous system and cytochrome P450, indicating that CYP enzymes metabolize endogenous neuroactive substances in the brain, while the brain nervous system is engaged in the central neuroendocrine and neuroimmune regulation of cytochrome P450 in the liver. Therefore, the effect of neuroactive drugs on cytochrome P450 should be investigated not only in vitro, but also at in vivo conditions, since only in vivo all mechanisms of drug-enzyme interaction can be observed, including neuroendocrine and neuroimmune modulation. Psychotropic drugs can potentially affect cytochrome P450 via a number of mechanisms operating at the level of the nervous, hormonal and immune systems, and the liver. Their effect on cytochrome P450 in the brain is often different than in the liver and region-dependent. Since psychotropic drugs can affect cytochrome P450 both in the liver and brain, they can modify their own pharmacological effect at both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic level. The article describes the mechanisms by which psychotropic drugs can change the expression/activity of cytochrome P450 in the liver and brain, and discusses the significance of those mechanisms for drug action and drug-drug interactions. Moreover, the brain CYP2D6 is considered as a potential target for psychotropics.

The Influence of Long-Term Treatment with Asenapine on Liver Cytochrome P450 Expression and Activity in the Rat. The Involvement of Different Mechanisms

Therapy of schizophrenia requires long-term treatment with a relevant antipsychotic drug to achieve a therapeutic effect. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of prolonged treatment with the atypical neuroleptic asenapine on the expression and activity of rat cytochrome P450 (CYP) in the liver. The experiment was carried out on male Wistar rats. Asenapine (0.3 mg/kg s.c.) was administered for two weeks. The levels of CYP mRNA protein and activity were determined in the liver and hormone concentrations were measured in the pituitary gland and blood serum. Asenapine significantly decreased the activity of CYP1A (caffeine 8-hydroxylation and 3-N-demethylation), CYP2B, CYP2C11 and CYP3A (testosterone hydroxylation at positions 16β; 2α and 16α; 2β and 6β, respectively). The neuroleptic did not affect the activity of CYP2A (testosterone 7α-hydroxylation), CYP2C6 (warfarin 7-hydroxylation) and CYP2E1 (chlorzoxazone 6-hydroxylation). The mRNA and protein levels of CYP1A2, CYP2B1, CYP2C11 and CYP3A1 were decreased, while those of CYP2B2 and CYP3A2 were not changed. Simultaneously, pituitary level of growth hormone-releasing hormone and serum concentrations of growth hormone and corticosterone were reduced, while that of triiodothyronine was enhanced. In conclusion, chronic treatment with asenapine down-regulates liver cytochrome P450 enzymes, which involves neuroendocrine mechanisms. Thus, chronic asenapine treatment may slow the metabolism of CYP1A, CYP2B, CYP2C11 and CYP3A substrates (steroids and drugs). Since asenapine is metabolized by CYP1A and CYP3A, the neuroleptic may inhibit its own metabolism, therefore, the plasma concentration of asenapine in patients after prolonged treatment may be higher than expected based on a single dose.

Alpha-Tocopherol Metabolites (the Vitamin E Metabolome) and Their Interindividual Variability during Supplementation

The metabolism of α-tocopherol (α-TOH, vitamin E) shows marked interindividual variability, which may influence the response to nutritional and therapeutic interventions with this vitamin. Recently, new metabolomics protocols have fostered the possibility to explore such variability for the different metabolites of α-TOH so far identified in human blood, i.e., the “vitamin E metabolome”, some of which have been reported to promote important biological functions. Such advances prompt the definition of reference values and degree of interindividual variability for these metabolites at different levels of α-TOH intake. To this end, a one-week oral administration protocol with 800 U RRR-α-TOH/day was performed in 17 healthy volunteers, and α-TOH metabolites were measured in plasma before and at the end of the intervention utilizing a recently validated LC-MS/MS procedure; the expression of two target genes of α-TOH with possible a role in the metabolism and function of this vitamin, namely pregnane X receptor (PXR) and the isoform 4F2 of cytochrome P450 (CYP4F2) was assessed by immunoblot in peripheral blood leukocytes. The levels of enzymatic metabolites showed marked interindividual variability that characteristically increased upon supplementation. With the exception of α-CEHC (carboxy-ethyl-hydroxychroman) and the long-chain metabolites M1 and α-13′OH, such variability was found to interfere with the possibility to utilize them as sensitive indicators of α-TOH intake. On the contrary, the free radical-derived metabolite α-tocopheryl quinone significantly correlated with the post-supplementation levels of α-TOH. The supplementation stimulated PXR, but not CYP4F2, expression of leucocytes, and significant correlations were observed between the baseline levels of α-TOH and both the baseline and post-supplementation levels of PXR. These findings provide original analytical and molecular information regarding the human metabolism of α-TOH and its intrinsic variability, which is worth considering in future nutrigenomics and interventions studies.

The regulation of liver cytochrome P450 expression and activity by the brain serotonergic system in different experimental models

Introduction: Cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolizes vital endogenous (steroids, vitamins) and exogenous (drugs, toxins) substrates. Studies of the last decade have revealed that the brain dopaminergic and noradrenergic systems are involved in the regulation of CYP. Recent research indicates that the brain serotonergic system is also engaged in its regulation.Areas covered: This review focuses on the role of the brain serotonergic system in the regulation of liver CYP expression. It shows the effect of lesion and activation of the serotonergic system after peripheral or intracerebral injections of neurotoxins, serotonin precursor, or serotonin (5-HT) receptor agonists. An opposite role of the hypothalamic paraventricular and arcuate nuclei and 5-HT receptors present therein in the regulation of CYP is described. The engagement of those nuclei in the neuroendocrine regulation of CYP by hypothalamic releasing or inhibiting hormones, pituitary hormones, and peripheral gland hormones are shown.Expert opinion: In general, the brain serotonergic system negatively regulates liver cytochrome P450. However, the effects of serotonergic agents on the enzyme expression depend on their mechanism of action, the route of administration (intracerebral/peripheral), as well as on local intracerebral site of injection and 5-HT receptor-subtypes present therein.

Toward a better understanding of the effects of endocrine disrupting compounds on health: Human-relevant case studies from sheep models

There are many challenges to overcome in order to properly understand both the exposure to, and effects of, endocrine disruptors (EDs). This is particularly true with respect to fetal life where ED exposures are a major issue requiring toxicokinetic studies of materno-fetal exchange and identification of pathophysiological consequences. The sheep, a large, monotocous, species, is very suitable for in utero fetal catheterization allowing a modelling approach predictive of human fetal exposure. Predicting adverse effects of EDs on human health is frequently impeded by the wide interspecies differences in the regulation of endocrine functions and their effects on biological processes. Because of its similarity to humans as regards gestational and thyroid physiologies and brain ontogeny, the sheep constitutes a highly appropriate model to move one step further on thyroid disruptor hazard assessment. As a grazing animal, the sheep has also proven to be useful in the evaluation of the consequences of chronic environmental exposure to "real-life" complex mixtures at different stages of the reproductive life cycle.

Validation of in vitro methods for human cytochrome P450 enzyme induction: Outcome of a multi-laboratory study

CYP enzyme induction is a sensitive biomarker for phenotypic metabolic competence of in vitro test systems; it is a key event associated with thyroid disruption, and a biomarker for toxicologically relevant nuclear receptor-mediated pathways. This paper summarises the results of a multi-laboratory validation study of two in vitro methods that assess the potential of chemicals to induce cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme activity, in particular CYP1A2, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4. The methods are based on the use of cryopreserved primary human hepatocytes (PHH) and human HepaRG cells. The validation study was coordinated by the European Union Reference Laboratory for Alternatives to Animal Testing of the European Commission's Joint Research Centre and involved a ring trial among six laboratories. The reproducibility was assessed within and between laboratories using a validation set of 13 selected chemicals (known human inducers and non-inducers) tested under blind conditions. The ability of the two methods to predict human CYP induction potential was assessed. Chemical space analysis confirmed that the selected chemicals are broadly representative of a diverse range of chemicals. The two methods were found to be reliable and relevant in vitro tools for the assessment of human CYP induction, with the HepaRG method being better suited for routine testing. Recommendations for the practical application of the two methods are proposed.

Chronic dietary toxicity and carcinogenicity studies of dammar resin in F344 rats

Dammar resin is a natural food additive and flavoring substance present in many foods and drinks. The present study evaluates the chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity of dietary dammar resin in F344 rats. Dietary concentrations in the 52-week chronic toxicity study were 0, 0.03, 0.125, 0.5, or 2%. The major treatment-related deleterious effects were body weight suppression, increased relative liver weight, and low hemoglobin levels in males and females. Foci of cellular alteration in the liver were observed in the male 2% group, but not in any other group. The no-observed-adverse-effect level for chronic toxicity was 0.125% for males (200.4 mg/kg b.w./day) and females (241.9 mg/kg b.w./day). Dietary concentrations in the 104-week carcinogenicity study were 0, 0.03, 0.5, or 2%. Dammar resin induced hemorrhagic diathesis in males and females, possibly via the inhibition of extrinsic and intrinsic coagulation pathways. Incidences of hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas were significantly increased in the male 2% group, but not in any other group. In the 4-week subacute toxicity study, the livers of male rat-fed diet-containing 2% dammar resin had increased levels of protein oxidation and increased the expression of two anti-apoptotic and seven cytochrome P450 (CYP) genes. There was also an increased tendency of oxidative DNA damage. These findings demonstrate that dammar resin is hepatocarcinogenic in male F344 rats and underlines the roles of inhibition of apoptosis, induction of CYP enzymes, and oxidative stress in dammar resin-induced hepatocarcinogenesis.

In vivo positive mutagenicity of 1,4-dioxane and quantitative analysis of its mutagenicity and carcinogenicity in rats

1,4-Dioxane is a widely used synthetic industrial chemical and its contamination of drinking water and food is a potential health concern. It induces liver tumors when administered in the drinking water to rats and mice. However, the mode of action (MOA) of the hepatocarcinogenicity of 1,4-dioxane remains unclear. Importantly, it is unknown if 1,4-dioxane is genotoxic, a key consideration for risk assessment. To determine the in vivo mutagenicity of 1,4-dioxane, gpt delta transgenic F344 rats were administered 1,4-dioxane at various doses in the drinking water for 16 weeks. The overall mutation frequency (MF) and A:T- to -G:C transitions and A:T- to -T:A transversions in the gpt transgene were significantly increased by administration of 5000 ppm 1,4-dioxane. A:T- to -T:A transversions were also significantly increased by administration of 1000 ppm 1,4-dioxane. Furthermore, the DNA repair enzyme MGMT was significantly induced at 5000 ppm 1,4-dioxane, implying that extensive genetic damage exceeded the repair capacity of the cells in the liver and consequently led to liver carcinogenesis. No evidence supporting other MOAs, including induction of oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, or nuclear receptor activation, that could contribute to the carcinogenic effects of 1,4-dioxane were found. These findings demonstrate that 1,4-dioxane is a genotoxic hepatocarcinogen and induces hepatocarcinogenesis through a mutagenic MOA in rats. Because our data indicate that 1,4-dioxane is a genotoxic carcinogen, we estimated the point of departure of the mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of 1,4-dioxane using the no-observed effect-level approach and the Benchmark dose approach to characterize its dose-response relationship at low doses.

Exploring the Metabolism of Loxoprofen in Liver Microsomes: The Role of Cytochrome P450 and UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase in Its Biotransformation

Loxoprofen, a propionic acid derivative, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is a prodrug that is reduced to its active metabolite, trans-alcohol form (Trans-OH) by carbonyl reductase enzyme in the liver. Previous studies demonstrated the hydroxylation and glucuronidation of loxoprofen. However, the specific enzymes catalyzing its metabolism have yet to be identified. In the present study, we investigated metabolic enzymes, such as cytochrome P450 (CYP) and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT), which are involved in the metabolism of loxoprofen. Eight microsomal metabolites of loxoprofen were identified, including two alcohol metabolites (M1 and M2), two mono-hydroxylated metabolites (M3 and M4), and four glucuronide conjugates (M5, M6, M7, and M8). Based on the results for the formation of metabolites when incubated in dexamethasone-induced microsomes, incubation with ketoconazole, and human recombinant cDNA-expressed cytochrome P450s, we identified CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 as the major CYP isoforms involved in the hydroxylation of loxoprofen (M3 and M4). Moreover, we identified that UGT2B7 is the major UGT isoform catalyzing the glucuronidation of loxoprofen and its alcoholic metabolites. Further experimental studies should be carried out to determine the potency and toxicity of these identified metabolites of loxoprofen, in order to fully understand of mechanism of loxoprofen toxicity.

Daikenchuto (TU-100) alters murine hepatic and intestinal drug metabolizing enzymes in an in vivo dietary model: effects of gender and withdrawal

Herbal medicines and natural products used for maintenance of health or treatment of diseases have many biological effects, including altering the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of other medications. Daikenchuto (TU‐100), an aqueous extract of ginger, ginseng, and Japanese green pepper fruit, is a commonly prescribed Kampo (Japanese herbal medicine) for postoperative ileus or bloating. The effects of TU‐100 on drug metabolism have not been investigated. In this study, we analyzed the effect of TU‐100 on expression of key drug‐metabolizing enzymes (DMEs) and drug transporters (DTs) in murine liver and gastrointestinal tract using a dietary model. Liver, jejunum, and proximal colon were analyzed for phase I and II DMEs and DT mRNA expression by reverse transcription (RT) first by nonquantitative and followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and protein expression. Liver, jejunum, and proximal colon expressed some identical but also unique DMEs and DTs. TU‐100 increased the greatest changes in cytochrome (Cyp) 2b10 and Cyp3a11 and Mdr1a. Basal and TU‐100 stimulated levels of DME and DT expression were gender‐dependent, dose‐dependent and reversible after cessation of TU‐100 supplementation, except for some changes in the intestine. Quantitative Western blot analysis of protein extracts confirmed the quantitative PCR results.

Antiretroviral Drug Metabolism in Humanized PXR-CAR-CYP3A-NOG Mice

Antiretroviral drug (ARV) metabolism is linked largely to hepatic cytochrome P450 activity. One ARV drug class known to be metabolized by intestinal and hepatic CYP3A are the protease inhibitors (PIs). Plasma drug concentrations are boosted by CYP3A inhibitors such as cobisistat and ritonavir (RTV). Studies of such drug-drug interactions are limited since the enzyme pathways are human specific. While immune-deficient mice reconstituted with human cells are an excellent model to study ARVs during human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection, they cannot reflect human drug metabolism. Thus, we created a mouse strain with the human pregnane X receptor, constitutive androstane receptor, and CYP3A4/7 genes on a NOD.Cg-Prkdc^scid Il2rg^tm1Sug/JicTac background (hCYP3A-NOG) and used them to evaluate the impact of human CYP3A metabolism on ARV pharmacokinetics. In proof-of-concept studies we used nanoformulated atazanavir (nanoATV) with or without RTV. NOG and hCYP3A-NOG mice were treated weekly with 50 mg/kg nanoATV alone or boosted with nanoformulated ritonavir (nanoATV/r). Plasma was collected weekly and liver was collected at 28 days post-treatment. Plasma and liver atazanavir (ATV) concentrations in nanoATV/r-treated hCYP3A-NOG mice were 2- to 4-fold higher than in replicate NOG mice. RTV enhanced plasma and liver ATV concentrations 3-fold in hCYP3A-NOG mice and 1.7-fold in NOG mice. The results indicate that human CYP3A-mediated drug metabolism is reduced compared with mouse and that RTV differentially affects human gene activity. These differences can affect responses to PIs in humanized mouse models of HIV-1 infection. Importantly, hCYP3A-NOG mice reconstituted with human immune cells can be used for bench-to-bedside translation.

Drug Interaction Potential of Osilodrostat (LCI699) Based on Its Effect on the Pharmacokinetics of Probe Drugs of Cytochrome P450 Enzymes in Healthy Adults

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Osilodrostat (LCI699) is an adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitor currently in late-phase clinical development as a potential treatment for Cushing's disease. This study evaluated the inhibitory effect of osilodrostat on the pharmacokinetics of probe substrates of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.

METHODS

Healthy adult volunteers received single-dose cocktail probe substrates [caffeine (100 mg), omeprazole (20 mg), dextromethorphan (30 mg), and midazolam (2 mg)] followed by a 6-day washout. Subjects then received a single dose of osilodrostat 50 mg followed by a single dose of cocktail probe substrates.

RESULTS

Nineteen of twenty subjects (ten were male) completed the study. Mean age, body weight, and body mass index were 41.8 years, 73.0 kg, and 24.4 kg/m². Geometric mean ratio of the area under the concentration-time curve from time zero to the last measureable concentration and 90% confidence intervals of probe substrate exposure with osilodrostat were: caffeine (CYP1A2 probe substrate), 2.33 (2.10-2.59); omeprazole (CYP2C19), 1.91 (1.74-2.11); dextromethorphan (CYP2D6), 1.48 (1.34-1.63); and midazolam (CYP3A4/5), 1.50 (1.41-1.60). Corresponding values for geometric mean ratio of maximum plasma concentration (90% confidence interval) for the change in substrate exposure were 1.07 (0.988-1.15), 1.61 (1.40-1.84), 1.35 (1.21-1.50), and 1.47 (1.32-1.62).

CONCLUSIONS

Osilodrostat is a moderate inhibitor of CYP1A2 and CYP2C19 and a weak inhibitor of CYP2D6 and the most clinically important CYP enzyme, CYP3A4. Osilodrostat is unlikely to significantly increase the exposures of other medications cleared by CYP3A4. These findings are clinically relevant given that Cushing's disease is a chronic condition often requiring multiple medications and that most other therapies have significant drug interaction potential.

Muscone Induces CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 Enzyme Expression in L02 Human Liver Cells and CYP1A2 and CYP3A11 Enzyme Expression in Kunming Mice

AIM

To examine the effect of synthetic muscone on the expression of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 enzymes in human liver L02 cells and in the liver tissue of Kunming mice.

METHODS

The L02 hepatic cell line was used to study the effect of low (10-4 μmol/L), middle (10-3 μmol/L), and high concentrations (10-2 μmol/L) of muscone on the expression of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 enzymes. In addition, the cytochrome P450 (CYP) expression was investigated in Kunming mice after the administration of 10 mg/kg (low), 50 mg/kg (middle), and 100 mg/kg (high) dose of muscone for 6 days. A mixture of phenobarbital (30 mg/kg) and β-napthoflavone (80 mg/kg) was used as positive control and the effects of the compounds on CYP expression were investigated at the end of 6- and 12-day periods.

RESULTS

Muscone induced the expression of CYP1A2 (middle and low concentrations) and of CYP3A4 (high concentration) enzymes in L02 cells. In vivo, administration of muscone in Kunming mice revealed significant weight reduction at the end of 6- and 12-day periods (middle and high doses, respectively), compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Liver toxicity scores indicated that the liver injuries in the positive control and high doses of muscone group were significantly higher in the 6- and 12-day periods, compared to those in the blank control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, muscone induced CYP1A2 and CYP3A11 expressions in Kunming mice at the middle dose and all doses during the 12-day period as demonstrated by immunoblotting experiments. A low dose of mucone induced the CYP enzyme expression more rapidly, whereas a high dose of muscone caused the longest inductive effect. The results were confirmed by immunohistochemistry experiments and real-time PCR studies, where similar patterns of muscone-mediated inductive effects were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Muscone induces CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 expression in liver cells in vitro and in vivo. In addition, it exhibits liver toxicity in Kunming mice at concentrations higher than 50 mg/kg. The CYP-inductive effect that is caused by muscone encompasses a 6- to 12-day period of activity after drug administration as demonstrated by follow-up in vivo studies.

Joint acute and endocrine disruptive toxicities of malathion, cypermethrin and prochloraz to embryo-larval zebrafish, Danio rerio

It remains a daunting challenge to determine ecotoxicological risks of exposure to mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in environmental toxicology. In the present study, we investigated acute and endocrine disruptive toxicities of cypermethrin (CPM), malathion (MAL), prochloraz (PRO) and their binary mixtures of MAL + CPM and MAL + PRO to the early life stages of zebrafish. In the acute lethal toxicity test, three pesticides exhibited different levels of toxicity to zebrafish larvae, and the order of toxicity was as follows: CPM > PRO > MAL. The binary mixture of MAL + CPM displayed a synergistic effect on zebrafish larvae after exposure for 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. However, binary mixture of MAL + PRO showed an antagonistic effect. To evaluate the estrogenic effect, the expression of genes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis was assessed after zebrafish embryos were exposed to CPM, MAL, PRO and their binary mixtures from blastula stage (1 h post-fertilization, 1 hpf) to 14 dpf (14 d post-fertilization). Our data indicated that the transcription patterns of many key genes (vtg1, vtg2, era, erβ1, erβ2, cyp19a1a and cyp19a1b) were affected in hatched zebrafish after exposure to CPM, MAL and PRO. Moreover, following exposure to binary mixtures of 1000 μg/L MAL +4 μg/L CPM and 1000 μg/L MAL +900 μg/L PRO, the gene expressions were significantly changed compared with the individual pesticides. Our data provided a better understanding of bidirectional interactions of toxic response induced by these pesticides.

Carbonated soft drinks alter hepatic cytochrome P450 isoform expression in Wistar rats

The aim of the current study was to examine the effects of chronic consumption of soft drinks (SDs) on hepatic oxidative stress and cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) expression in the livers of Wistar rats. For 3 consecutive months, the rats had free access to three different soft drinks, Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola and 7-UP. The rats were subsequently compared with control group rats that had consumed water. Blood and hepatic tissue samples were assayed for the changes in antioxidants, liver function biomarkers and hepatic gene expression for different isoforms of hepatic CYP. The results indicated that SD consumption (SDC) decreased serum antioxidant levels and increased malondialdehyde secretion, and increased liver biomarkers (glutamate pyruvate transaminase and glutamate oxaloacetate). SD induced alterations in mRNA expression of hepatic antioxidants and cytochrome isoforms. The expression of peroxidase, catalase, CYP1A2, CYP3A2 and CYP2C11 in the liver were upregulated following SDC. By contrast, CYP2B1 was downregulated after 3 months of SDC in liver tissue samples. Thus, the present findings indicate that SDs induced oxidative stress in the liver of Wistar rats and for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, indicate that SDC disrupts hepatic CYP enzymes that may affect drug metabolism. Therefore, drug-dosing programs should be carefully designed to take these novel findings into consideration for the treatment of diseases.

BFCOD activity in fish cell lines and zebrafish embryos and its modulation by chemical ligands of human aryl hydrocarbon and nuclear receptors

Assessment of exposure and effect of fish to pharmaceuticals that contaminate aquatic environment is a current major issue in ecotoxicology and there is a need to develop specific biological marker to achieve this goal. Benzyloxy-4-trifluoromethylcoumarin-O-debenzyloxylase (BFCOD) enzymatic activity has been commonly used to monitor CYP3A activity in fish. In this study, we assessed the capacity of a panel of toxicologically relevant chemicals to modulate BFCOD activity in fish, by using in vitro and in vivo bioassays based on fish liver cell lines (PLHC-1, ZFL, RTL-W1) and zebrafish embryos, respectively. Basal BFCOD activity was detectable in all biological models and was differently modulated by chemicals. Ligands of human androgens, glucocorticoids, or pregnanes X receptors (i.e., dexamethasone, RU486, rifampicin, SR12813, T0901317, clotrimazole, ketoconazole, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone) moderately increased or inhibited BFCOD activity, with some variations between the models. No common feature could be drawn by regards to their capacity to bind to these receptors, which contrasts with their known effect on mammalian CYP3A. In contrast, dioxins and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) strongly induced BFCOD activity (up to 30-fold) in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, both in vitro in all cell lines and in vivo in zebrafish embryos. These effects were AhR dependent as indicated by suppression of induced BFCOD by the AhR pathway inhibitors 8-methoxypsoralen and α-naphthoflavone. Altogether our result further question the relevance of using liver BFCOD activity as a biomarker of fish exposure to CYP3A-active compounds such as pharmaceuticals.

Determination of CYP3A4 Inducing Properties of Compounds Using a Laboratory-Developed Cell-Based Assay

A cell-based assay to measure cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) induction was developed to screen for potential CYP3A4 inducers. This 96-well format assay utilizes HepG2 cells transfected with a gene construct of CYP3A4 proximal promoter linked to green fluorescence protein (GFP) gene, and the expression of the GFP is then measured quantitatively. Bergamottin at 5 to 25 µmol/L produced low induction relative to the positive control. Both curcumin and lycopene were not found to affect the expression of GFP, suggesting no induction properties toward CYP3A4. Interestingly, resveratrol produced significant induction from 25 µmol/L onward, which was similar to omeprazole and may warrant further studies. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that this cell-based assay can be used as a tool to evaluate the potential CYP3A4 induction properties of compounds. However, molecular docking data have not provided satisfactory pointers to differentiate between CYP3A4 inducers from noninducers or from inhibitors, more comprehensive molecular screening may be indicated.

Single nucleotide polymorphism of CYP3A4 intron 2 and its influence on CYP3A4 mRNA expression and liver enzymatic activity in human liver

In adult liver, CYP3A4 plays an important role in the metabolism of a wide range of endogenous and exogenous compounds. To investigate whether there is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of CYP3A4 intron 2 in the liver and its effects on the mRNA expression and enzymatic activity of CYP3A4, genomic DNA was extracted from 96 liver tissue samples obtained from patients who had undergone liver surgery. An SNP of CYP3A4 intron 2 was identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-single-strand confirmation polymorphism and DNA sequencing. The mRNA expression of CYP3A4 was determined by the fluorescence quantitative PCR technique. The enzymatic activity of CYP3A4 was measured using erythromycin and testosterone as probe substrates. Twelve patients were found to have the SNP/T4127G CYP3A4 within intron 2. The mRNA levels of CYP3A4 in wild-type and SNP/T4127G samples were 2.62±1.09 and 2.79±1.63, respectively (P>0.05). Erythromycin N-demethylase activity in wild-type and SNP/T4127G samples were 121.2±32.8 and 124.7±61.6 nmol·mg(-1)·min(-1), respectively (P>0.05). The activity of testosterone 6β-hydroxylase was significantly different between wild-type (648±173 pmol·mg(-1)·min(-1)) and SNP/T4127G samples (540±196 pmol·mg(-1)·min(-1); P<0.05). In conclusion, the SNP/T4127G of CYP3A4 intron 2 exists in the liver. This SNP does not affect the mRNA expression of CYP3A4 but significantly decreases the hepatic microsomal testosterone 6β-hydroxylase activity of CYP3A4. Furthermore, this study indicates that the appropriate selection of probe substrates is very important in studying the relationship between the genotype and phenotype of CYP3A4.

Correlation analysis of gene polymorphisms and β-lactam allergy

A total of 64 patients with β-lactam allergy and 30 control subjects were enrolled in a case-control study. This study is aimed to analyze the relationship between β-lactam allergy and 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in interleukin-10 (IL-10), IL-13, IL-4Rα, high-affinity immunoglobulin E-receptor β chain (FcεRIβ), interferon γ receptor 2 (IFNGR2), and CYP3A4, and within the Han Chinese population of Northwest China. Genotyping for the SNPs was conducted using the Sequenom MassARRAY(®) platform. SPSS 17.0 was employed to analyze the statistical data and SHEsis was used to perform the haplotype reconstruction and analyze linkage disequilibrium of SNPs of IL-10 and IL-13. The results showed that the genotype distribution of CYP3A4 rs2242480/CT differed significantly between case and control groups of males (P=0.022; odds ratio (OR)=0.167, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.032-0.867). Further analysis showed that CCA, CCG, and TAA haplotypes of IL-10 had no significant correlation in patients with β-lactam allergy. The correlation between CCT and CAC haplotypes of IL-13 and β-lactam allergy needs to be further studied. The analysis did not reveal any differences in the distribution of others gene polymorphisms between cases and controls.

MDR1 will play a key role in pharmacokinetic changes under hypoxia at high altitude and its potential regulatory networks

Some newest studies indicated that drug transports may play the key role in pharmacokinetics changes under hypoxia at high altitude; MDR1 is now known to affect the disposition of many administered drugs and make a major contribution to absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion. Different expression of MDR1 is frequently found in different normal tissues and tumor cells; it is important to better understand how MDR1 is regulated under hypoxia, which seems to be a complex and highly controlled process. Several signaling pathways and transcription factors have been described as being involved in the regulation of MDR1 expression, such as MAPK/ERK, nuclear factor-kappaB, hypoxia-inducible factor-1a, pregnane × receptor, constitutive androstane receptor and microRNA. Recently, researches have been increasingly appreciating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as an integral component of gene regulatory networks. lncRNAs play crucial roles in various biological processes ranging from epigenetic gene regulation, transcriptional control, post-transcriptional regulation, pre-mRNA processing and nuclear organization. A last recent research showed that H19 gene non-coding RNA is believed to induce P-glycoprotein expression under hypoxia.

Embryonic exposure to carbendazim induces the transcription of genes related to apoptosis, immunotoxicity and endocrine disruption in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Carbendazim is one of the most widespread environmental contaminant that can cause major concern to human and animal reproductive system. To date, very few studies have been conducted on the toxic effect of carbendazim in the non-target organism zebrafish (Danio rerio). The study presented here aimed to assess how carbendazim triggers apoptosis, immunotoxicity and endocrine disruption pathways in zebrafish during its embryo development. Our results demonstrated that the expression patterns of many key genes involved in cell apoptosis pathway (e.g. P53, Mdm2, Bbc3 and Cas8) were significantly up-regulated upon the exposure to carbendazim at the concentration of 500 μg/L, while the Bcl2 and Cas3 were down-regulated at the same concentration, interestingly, the expression level of Ogg1 decreased at all the exposure concentrations. It was also observed that the mRNA levels of CXCL-C1C, CCL1, IL-1b and TNFα which were closely related to the innate immune system, were affected in newly hatched zebrafish after exposed to different concentrations of carbendazim. Moreover, the expression of genes that are involved in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal/thyroid (HPG/HPT) axis including VTG, ERα, ERβ2, Dio1, Dio2, Thraa and Thrb were all down-regulated significantly after the exposure to carbendazim. The expression levels of two cytochrome P450 aromatases CYP19a and CYP19b were increased significantly after 20 and 100 μg/L carbendazim exposure, respectively. Taken together, our results indicated that carbendazim had the potential to induce cell apoptosis and cause immune toxicity as well as endocrine disruption in zebrafish during the embryo developmental stage. The information presented here also help to elucidate the environmental risks caused by the carbendazim-induced toxicity in aquatic organisms.

Three new shRNA expression vectors targeting the CYP3A4 coding sequence to inhibit its expression

RNA interference (RNAi) is useful for selective gene silencing. Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which metabolizes approximately 50% of drugs in clinical use, plays an important role in drug metabolism. In this study, we aimed to develop a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) to modulate CYP3A4 expression. Three new shRNAs (S1, S2 and S3) were designed to target the coding sequence (CDS) of CYP3A4, cloned into a shRNA expression vector, and tested in different cells. The mixture of three shRNAs produced optimal reduction (55%) in CYP3A4 CDS-luciferase activity in both CHL and HEK293 cells. Endogenous CYP3A4 expression in HepG2 cells was decreased about 50% at both mRNA and protein level after transfection of the mixture of three shRNAs. In contrast, CYP3A5 gene expression was not altered by the shRNAs, supporting the selectivity of CYP3A4 shRNAs. In addition, HepG2 cells transfected with CYP3A4 shRNAs were less sensitive to Ginkgolic acids, whose toxic metabolites are produced by CYP3A4. These results demonstrate that vector-based shRNAs could modulate CYP3A4 expression in cells through their actions on CYP3A4 CDS, and CYP3A4 shRNAs may be utilized to define the role of CYP3A4 in drug metabolism and toxicity.

The effects of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees extract and diterpenoids on the CYP450 isoforms' activities, a review of possible herb-drug interaction risks

Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees is a popular medicinal plant and its components are used in various traditional product preparations. However, its herb-drug interactions risks remain unclear. This review specifically discusses the various published studies carried out to evaluate the effects of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Nees plant extracts and diterpenoids on the CYP450 metabolic enzyme and if the plant components pose a possible herb-drug interaction risk. Unfortunately, the current data are insufficient to indicate if the extracts or diterpenoids can be labeled as in vitro CYP1A2, CYP2C9 or CYP3A4 inhibitors. A complete CYP inhibition assay utilizing human liver microsomes and the derivation of relevant parameters to predict herb-drug interaction risks may be necessary for these isoforms. However, based on the current studies, none of the extracts and diterpenoids exhibited CYP450 induction activity in human hepatocytes or human-derived cell lines. It is crucial that a well-defined experimental design is needed to make a meaningful herb-drug interaction prediction.

An efficient method for differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells into hepatocyte-like cells retaining drug metabolizing activity

The use of human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells would be of great value for a variety of applications involving drug development studies. Several reports have been published on the differentiation of human iPS cells into hepatocyte-like cells; however, the cells were insufficient for application in drug metabolism studies. In this study, we aimed to establish effective methods for differentiation of human iPS cells into hepatocytes. Two human iPS cell lines were differentiated by addition of activin A, dimethyl sulfoxide, hepatocyte growth factor, oncostatin M, and dexamethasone. The differentiated cells expressed hepatocyte markers and drug-metabolizing enzymes, revealing that the human iPS cells were differentiated into hepatocyte-like cells. Expression of CYP3A4 and UGT1A1 mRNAs increased with treatment with typical inducers of the enzymes, and the response of the cells against the inducers was similar to that of human hepatocytes. Furthermore, the drug-metabolizing activity of CYP3A4, as monitored by testosterone 6β-hydroxylase activity, was elevated by these inducers. In conclusion, we established methods for differentiation of hepatocyte-like cells expressing drug metabolizing activity from human iPS cells. The hepatocyte-like cells derived from human iPS cells will be useful for drug metabolism studies.

PXR-Mediated Upregulation of CYP3A Expression by Herb Compound Praeruptorin C from Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn

We recently reported that Praeruptorin C effectively transactivated the mRNA, protein expression, and catalytic activity of CYP3A4 via the CAR-mediated pathway, but whether and how PC could affect the expression and catalytic activity of CYP3A4 via PXR pathway remains unknown. Therefore, in this study, the effect of PC on the CYP3A gene expression was investigated in mice primary hepatocytes after knockdown of PXR by transient transfection of PXR siRNA, and the gene expression, protein expression, and catalytic activity of CYP3A4 in the LS174T cells with PXR overexpression were determined by real-time PCR, western blot analysis, and LC-MS/MS-based CYP3A4 substrate assay, respectively. We found that the level of CYP3a11 gene expression in mouse primary hepatocytes was significantly increased by praeruptorin C, but such an induction was suppressed after knockdown of pregnane X receptor by its siRNA. In PXR-overexpressed LS174T cells, PC significantly enhanced CYP3A4 mRNA, protein expression, and functional activity through PXR-mediated pathway; conversely, no such increase was found in the untransfected cells. These findings suggest that PC can significantly upregulate CYP3A level via the PXR-mediated pathway, and this should be taken into consideration to predict any potential herb-drug interactions between PC, Qianhu, and the other coadministered drugs.

Nuclear receptors PXR and CAR: implications for drug metabolism regulation, pharmacogenomics and beyond

INTRODUCTION

'Orphan' nuclear receptors belong to the nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily of transcriptional factors. Binding of ligands to these receptors results in the recruitment of the co-activators, thereby regulating the expression of cognate target genes.

AREAS COVERED

This review discusses the transcriptional regulation of P450 genes by two major xenobiotic nuclear receptors, pregnane X receptor (PXR) and constitutive androstane receptor (CAR). Additional PXR and CAR target genes include those encoded for UDP-glucuronosyltransferases, glutathione S-transferases, sulfotransferases and drug transporters. The authors discuss the involvement of PXR and CAR in endobiotic metabolism. They also review the polymorphisms of PXR and CAR.

EXPERT OPINION

PXR and CAR are both xenobiotic and endobiotic receptors. A remarkably diverse set of chemicals can activate PXR and CAR. There is significant cross-talk among xenobiotic receptors. Future studies are needed to focus on the polymorphisms of the nuclear receptors and the complex regulatory networks among nuclear receptors. Considerations should be given while designing PXR- or CAR-targeting pharmaceutics to avoid adverse drug effects. In the meantime, due to the diverse functions of PXR and CAR, agonists or antagonists for these receptors may have therapeutic potentials in managing certain diseases and enhancing therapeutic indexes.

A clinical study to assess CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 induction by AZD7325, a selective GABA(A) receptor modulator - an in vitro and in vivo comparison

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• AZD7325 is an orally administered, potent, selective gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA(A) ) α2,3 receptor modulator intended for the treatment of anxiety. • The induction effects of AZD7325 on CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 have not been systematically studied.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• The in vitro studies showed that AZD7325 was a moderate CYP1A2 inducer and potent CYP3A4 inducer. • The follow-up clinical studies in healthy volunteers demonstrated that the expected efficacious daily dose of AZD7325 only weakly induced the pharmacokinetics of the CYP3A4 sensitive substrate, midazolam, and had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of the CYP1A2 substrate, caffeine. There was no apparent change in AZD7325 exposure following co-administration of midazolam or caffeine compared with AZD7325 alone. • The study demonstrated that clinical exposure of the inducer plays a critical role in the determination of cytochrome P450 induction risk of a drug candidate.

AIM(S)

To investigate the potential of AZD7325 to induce CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 enzyme activities.

METHODS

Induction of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 by AZD7325 was first evaluated using cultured human hepatocytes. The effect of multiple doses of 10 mg AZD7325 on the pharmacokinetics of midazolam and caffeine was then examined in healthy subjects.

RESULTS

The highest CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 induction responses were observed in human hepatocytes treated with 1 or 10 µm of AZD7325, in the range of 17.9%-54.9% and 76.9%-85.7% of the positive control responses, respectively. The results triggered the further clinical evaluation of AZD7325 induction potential. AZD7325 reached a plasma C(max) of 0.2 µm after 10 mg daily dosing to steady-state. AZD7325 decreased midazolam geometric mean AUC by 19% (0.81-fold, 90% CI 0.77, 0.87), but had no effect on midazolam C(max) (90% CI 0.82, 0.97). The mean CL/F of midazolam increased from 62 l h(-1) (midazolam alone) to 76 l h(-1) when co-administered with AZD7325. The AUC and C(max) of caffeine were not changed after co-administration of AZD7325, with geometric mean ratios (90% CI) of 1.17 (1.12, 1.23) and 0.99 (0.95, 1.03), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

While AZD7325 appeared to be a potent CYP3A4 inducer and a moderate CYP1A2 inducer from in vitro studies, the expected efficacious dose of AZD7325 had no effect on CYP1A2 activity and only a weak inducing effect on CYP3A4 activity. This comparison of in vitro and in vivo results demonstrates the critical role that clinical exposure plays in evaluating the CYP induction risk of a drug candidate.