1
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Rubinić I, Kurtov M, Likić R. Novel Pharmaceuticals in Appetite Regulation: Exploring emerging gut peptides and their pharmacological prospects. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2024; 12:e1243. [PMID: 39016695 PMCID: PMC11253306 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.1243] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity, a global health challenge, necessitates innovative approaches for effective management. Targeting gut peptides in the development of anti-obesity pharmaceuticals has already demonstrated significant efficacy. Ghrelin, peptide YY (PYY), cholecystokinin (CCK), and amylin are crucial in appetite regulation offering promising targets for pharmacological interventions in obesity treatment using both peptide-based and small molecule-based pharmaceuticals. Ghrelin, a sole orexigenic gut peptide, has a potential for anti-obesity therapies through various approaches, including endogenous ghrelin neutralization, ghrelin receptor antagonists, ghrelin O-acyltransferase, and functional inhibitors. Anorexigenic gut peptides, peptide YY, cholecystokinin, and amylin, have exhibited appetite-reducing effects in animal models and humans. Overcoming substantial obstacles is imperative for translating these findings into clinically effective pharmaceuticals. Peptide YY and cholecystokinin analogues, characterized by prolonged half-life and resistance to proteolytic enzymes, present viable options. Positive allosteric modulators emerge as a novel approach for modulating the cholecystokinin pathway. Amylin is currently the most promising, with both amylin analogues and dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonists (DACRAs) progressing to advanced stages of clinical trials. Despite persistent challenges, innovative pharmaceutical strategies provide a glimpse into the future of anti-obesity therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Rubinić
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of RijekaRijekaCroatia
- Clinical Pharmacology unitClinical Hospital Center RijekaRijekaCroatia
| | - Marija Kurtov
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Internal MedicineUniversity Hospital “Sveti Duh”ZagrebCroatia
| | - Robert Likić
- Department of Internal MedicineSchool of Medicine University of ZagrebZagrebCroatia
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2
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Nicze M, Dec A, Borówka M, Krzyżak D, Bołdys A, Bułdak Ł, Okopień B. Molecular Mechanisms behind Obesity and Their Potential Exploitation in Current and Future Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8202. [PMID: 39125772 PMCID: PMC11311839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic disease caused primarily by the imbalance between the amount of calories supplied to the body and energy expenditure. Not only does it deteriorate the quality of life, but most importantly it increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, leading to reduced life expectancy. In this review, we would like to present the molecular pathomechanisms underlying obesity, which constitute the target points for the action of anti-obesity medications. These include the central nervous system, brain-gut-microbiome axis, gastrointestinal motility, and energy expenditure. A significant part of this article is dedicated to incretin-based drugs such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., liraglutide and semaglutide), as well as the brand new dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist tirzepatide, all of which have become "block-buster" drugs due to their effectiveness in reducing body weight and beneficial effects on the patient's metabolic profile. Finally, this review article highlights newly designed molecules with the potential for future obesity management that are the subject of ongoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Nicze
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Medyków 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland (A.B.); (B.O.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Łukasz Bułdak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Medyków 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland (A.B.); (B.O.)
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3
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Sarkar K, Das B, Das RK. Discovery of new oxadiazolo pyridine derivatives as potent ghrelin O-acyltransferase inhibitors using molecular modeling techniques. In Silico Pharmacol 2023; 11:35. [PMID: 37954893 PMCID: PMC10632319 DOI: 10.1007/s40203-023-00167-z] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabesity is a major global health concern, and ghrelin O-acyltransferase (GOAT) acts as an important target for the development of new inhibitors of this disease. The present work highlights a detailed QSAR study using QSARINS software, which provides an excellent model equation using descriptors. Here, the best model equation developed has two variables, namely MLFER_E and XlogP, with statistical parameters R2 = 0.8433, LOF = 0.0793, CCCtr = 0.915, Q2LOO = 0.8303, Q2LMO = 0.8275, CCCcv = 0.9081, R2ext = 0.7712, and CCCext = 0.8668. A higher correlation of the key structural fragments with activity is validated by the developed QSAR model. Furthermore, molecular docking helped us identify the binding interactions. Thirty four new molecules with better predicted biological activity (pIC50) were designed. The binding energy of four compounds have shown higher binding activity into the membrane protein (PDB Id: 6BUG). Molecular dynamics simulation has established the stability of the protein-ligand complex over 100 ns. DFT and ADME-toxicity analyses also confirmed their drug-like properties. Based on our findings, we report that these new oxadiazolo pyridine derivatives lead to the development of potent candidates for further development. Graphical abstract METTL3-mediated HOTAIRM1 promotes vasculogenic mimicry in glioma via regulating IGFBP2 expression. METTL3 expression is high in glioma cells and tissues that stabilize and enhance HOTAIRM1 expression. This HOTAIRM1 then interacts with IGFBP2 which in turn promotes glioma cell malignancy and vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation, thus providing a new direction for glioma therapy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40203-023-00167-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaushik Sarkar
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal, Darjeeling, 734013 West Bengal India
| | - Bipasha Das
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal, Darjeeling, 734013 West Bengal India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Das
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Bengal, Darjeeling, 734013 West Bengal India
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4
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Coupland CE, Ansell TB, Sansom MSP, Siebold C. Rocking the MBOAT: Structural insights into the membrane bound O-acyltransferase family. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 80:102589. [PMID: 37040671 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The membrane-bound O-acyltransferase (MBOAT) superfamily catalyses the transfer of acyl chains to substrates implicated in essential cellular functions. Aberrant function of MBOATs is associated with various diseases and MBOATs are promising drug targets. There has been recent progress in structural characterisation of MBOATs, advancing our understanding of their functional mechanism. Integrating information across the MBOAT family, we characterise a common MBOAT fold and provide a blueprint for substrate and inhibitor engagement. This work provides context for the diverse substrates, mechanisms, and evolutionary relationships of protein and small-molecule MBOATs. Further work should aim to characterise MBOATs, as inherently lipid-associated proteins, within their membrane environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire E Coupland
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK
| | - T Bertie Ansell
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK; Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Mark S P Sansom
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK.
| | - Christian Siebold
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.
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5
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Bianzano S, Henrich A, Herich L, Kalsch B, Sarubbi D, Seitz F, Forst T. Efficacy and safety of the ghrelin-O-acyltransferase inhibitor BI 1356225 in overweight/obesity: Data from two Phase I, randomised, placebo-controlled studies. Metabolism 2023; 143:155550. [PMID: 36958671 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2023.155550] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is a complex disease associated with multiple concurrent complications, and the coordinated targeting of multiple pathways in pharmacological treatment may improve weight loss outcomes. During synthesis, ghrelin is converted from the 'inactive' unacylated ghrelin (UAG) to the active acylated ghrelin (AG) by the enzyme ghrelin-O-acyltransferase (GOAT), stimulating appetite and food intake. AIMS To report the results of two Phase I studies investigating single rising doses (SRDs) or multiple rising doses (MRDs) of the novel oral GOAT inhibitor BI 1356225 versus placebo in male and postmenopausal/sterilised female subjects with overweight or obesity. METHODS The SRD study investigated single doses of BI 1356225 (0.1-20.0 mg) in healthy male subjects with a BMI of 18.5-29.9 kg/m2 (SRD cohort) and assessed doses of 2.5 mg BI 1356225 under fed and fasted conditions (bioavailability [BA] cohort). The MRD study investigated multiple doses of BI 1356225 (0.2, 1.0, 2.5 or 10.0 mg) or 5.0 mg BI 1356225 with a single dose of midazolam and celecoxib (drug-drug interaction part) over 28 days in adults with a BMI of 27.0-39.9 kg/m2. RESULTS Sixty-five subjects were treated in the SRD study. Drug-related adverse events (AEs) were reported for five subjects (9.1 %) in the SRD cohort and two subjects (20.0 %) in the BA cohort, with the most frequent being headache (SRD: n = 4, 9.8 %; BA: n = 1, 10.0 %). In the MRD study, two (2.3 %) of the 87 subjects treated discontinued treatment because of AEs. Drug-related AEs were reported for 18 subjects (20.7 %), did not increase with dose and were most frequently reported as headache (n = 5, 5.7 %) and gastrointestinal disorders (n = 5, 5.7 %). In both studies, exposure parameters (area under the concentration-time curve [AUC] and maximum plasma concentration [Cmax]) of BI 1356225 increased across dose groups, although this was less than dose-proportional across the entire dose range. In the BA cohort of the SRD study, AUC0-∞ was slightly increased and Cmax slightly decreased in fed versus fasted conditions, with fed/fasted ratios (90 % CI) of 101.10 % (92.42, 110.60) and 91.67 % (78.50, 107.05), respectively. In both studies, AG concentrations and the AG/UAG ratio were dose-dependently decreased after BI 1356225 treatment from baseline versus placebo. In the MRD study, UAG concentrations were increased from baseline, but not dose-dependently. No differences were observed in bodyweight, appetite, food cravings, ad libitum food uptake or obesity-related biomarkers after 28 days of treatment with BI 1356225. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with SRDs and MRDs of BI 1356225 was well tolerated by healthy males and subjects with overweight/obesity. BI 1356225 treatment over 28 days reduced AG concentrations and the AG/UAG ratio by >80 %, but no effect was seen on bodyweight, hunger/satiety, control of eating or energy intake. Although, at 4 weeks, the MRD study was fairly short, a reduction in bodyweight would be expected to be evident by this time, suggesting that a reduction of AG via a GOAT inhibitor is not sufficient to induce clinically relevant bodyweight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Bianzano
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, 55216 Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Andrea Henrich
- Pharmetheus AB, 75237 Uppsala, Sweden; Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | | | - Brigitte Kalsch
- CRS Clinical Research Services Mannheim GmbH, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Donald Sarubbi
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | - Friedeborg Seitz
- CRS Clinical Research Services Mannheim GmbH, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas Forst
- CRS Clinical Research Services Mannheim GmbH, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
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Pierce MR, Hougland JL. A rising tide lifts all MBOATs: recent progress in structural and functional understanding of membrane bound O-acyltransferases. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1167873. [PMID: 37250116 PMCID: PMC10213974 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1167873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Acylation modifications play a central role in biological and physiological processes. Across a range of biomolecules from phospholipids to triglycerides to proteins, introduction of a hydrophobic acyl chain can dramatically alter the biological function and cellular localization of these substrates. Amongst the enzymes catalyzing these modifications, the membrane bound O-acyltransferase (MBOAT) family occupies an intriguing position as the combined substrate selectivities of the various family members span all three classes of these biomolecules. MBOAT-dependent substrates are linked to a wide range of health conditions including metabolic disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease. Like many integral membrane proteins, these enzymes have presented challenges to investigation due to their intractability to solubilization and purification. However, over the last several years new solubilization approaches coupled with computational modeling, crystallography, and cryoelectron microscopy have brought an explosion of structural information for multiple MBOAT family members. These studies enable comparison of MBOAT structure and function across members catalyzing modifications of all three substrate classes, revealing both conserved features amongst all MBOATs and distinct architectural features that correlate with different acylation substrates ranging from lipids to proteins. We discuss the methods that led to this renaissance of MBOAT structural investigations, our new understanding of MBOAT structure and implications for catalytic function, and the potential impact of these studies for development of new therapeutics targeting MBOAT-dependent physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariah R. Pierce
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - James L. Hougland
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
- BioInspired Syracuse, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
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7
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Cil O, Anderson MO, de Souza Goncalves L, Tan JA, Haggie PM, Verkman AS. Small molecule inhibitors of intestinal epithelial anion exchanger SLC26A3 (DRA) with a luminal, extracellular site of action. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 249:115149. [PMID: 36724632 PMCID: PMC10124120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115149] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The anion exchanger protein SLC26A3 (down-regulated in adenoma, DRA) is expressed in the luminal membrane of intestinal epithelial cells in colon, where it facilitates the absorption of Cl- and oxalate. We previously identified a 4,8-dimethylcoumarin class of SLC26A3 inhibitors that act from the SLC26A3 cytoplasmic surface, and demonstrated their efficacy in mouse models of constipation and hyperoxaluria. Here, screening of 50,000 new compounds and 1740 chemical analogs of active compounds from the primary screen produced five novel classes of SLC26A3-selective inhibitors (1,3-dioxoisoindoline-amides; N-(5-sulfamoyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)acetamides; thiazolo-pyrimidin-5-ones; 3-carboxy-2-phenylbenzofurans and benzoxazin-4-ones) with IC50 down to 100 nM. Kinetic washout and onset of action studies revealed an extracellular site of action for the thiazolo-pyrimidin-5-one and 3-carboxy-2-phenylbenzofuran inhibitors. Molecular docking computations revealed putative binding sites for these inhibitors. In a loperamide model of constipation in mice, orally administered 7-(2-chloro-phenoxymethyl)-3-phenyl-thiazolo [3,2-a]pyrimidin-5-one (3a) significantly increased stool weight, pellet number and water content. SLC26A3 inhibitors with an extracellular site of action offer the possibility of creating non-absorbable, luminally acting inhibitors with minimal systemic exposure following oral administration. Our findings also suggest that inhibitors of related SLC26 anion transporters with an extracellular site of action might be identified for pharmacological modulation of selected epithelial ion transport processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur Cil
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Marc O Anderson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Joseph-Anthony Tan
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Peter M Haggie
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alan S Verkman
- Departments of Medicine and Physiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Inceu AI, Neag MA, Craciun AE, Buzoianu AD. Gut Molecules in Cardiometabolic Diseases: The Mechanisms behind the Story. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043385. [PMID: 36834796 PMCID: PMC9965280 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Diabetes mellitus increases cardiovascular risk. Heart failure and atrial fibrillation are associated comorbidities that share the main cardiovascular risk factors. The use of incretin-based therapies promoted the idea that activation of alternative signaling pathways is effective in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart failure. Gut-derived molecules, gut hormones, and gut microbiota metabolites showed both positive and detrimental effects in cardiometabolic disorders. Although inflammation plays a key role in cardiometabolic disorders, additional intracellular signaling pathways are involved and could explain the observed effects. Revealing the involved molecular mechanisms could provide novel therapeutic strategies and a better understanding of the relationship between the gut, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea-Ioana Inceu
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maria-Adriana Neag
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Anca-Elena Craciun
- Department of Diabetes, and Nutrition Diseases, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Anca-Dana Buzoianu
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400337 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Tian J, Du E, Jia K, Wang T, Guo L, Zigman JM, Du H. Elevated Ghrelin Promotes Hippocampal Ghrelin Receptor Defects in Humanized Amyloid-β Knockin Mice During Aging. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 96:1579-1592. [PMID: 38007666 PMCID: PMC10841720 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence has revealed that dysregulation of the hormone ghrelin and its receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Specifically, defective GHSR function and resultant hippocampal ghrelin resistance are linked to hippocampal synaptic injury in AD paradigms. Also, AD patients exhibit elevated ghrelin activation. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms of hippocampal GHSR dysfunction and the relevance of ghrelin elevation to hippocampal ghrelin resistance in AD-relevant pathological settings are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE In the current study, we employed a recently established mouse line of AD risk [humanized amyloid beta knockin (hAβ KI mice), also referred to as a mouse model of late-onset AD in previous literature] to further define the role of ghrelin system dysregulation in the development of AD. METHODS We employed multidisciplinary techniques to determine the change of plasma ghrelin and the functional status of GHSR in hAβ KI mice as well as primary neuron cultures. RESULTS We observed concurrent plasma ghrelin elevation and hippocampal GHSR desensitization with disease progression. Further examination excluded the possibility that ghrelin elevation is a compensatory change in response to GHSR dysfunction. In contrast, further in vitro and in vivo results show that agonist-mediated overstimulation potentiates GHSR desensitization through enhanced GHSR internalization. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that circulating ghrelin elevation is a pathological event underlying hippocampal GHSR dysfunction, culminating in hippocampal ghrelin resistance and resultant synaptic injury in late-onset AD-related settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Tian
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Eric Du
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Blue Valley West High School, Overland Park, KS, USA
| | - Kun Jia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Tienju Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Lan Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Jeffrey M. Zigman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Hypothalamic Research, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Heng Du
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Alzheimer’s disease Research Center (ADRC), Department of Neurology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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10
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Giorgioni G, Del Bello F, Quaglia W, Botticelli L, Cifani C, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Piergentili A. Advances in the Development of Nonpeptide Small Molecules Targeting Ghrelin Receptor. J Med Chem 2022; 65:3098-3118. [PMID: 35157454 PMCID: PMC8883476 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c02191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin is an octanoylated peptide acting by the activation of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor, namely, GHS-R1a. The involvement of ghrelin in several physiological processes, including stimulation of food intake, gastric emptying, body energy balance, glucose homeostasis, reduction of insulin secretion, and lipogenesis validates the considerable interest in GHS-R1a as a promising target for the treatment of numerous disorders. Over the years, several GHS-R1a ligands have been identified and some of them have been extensively studied in clinical trials. The recently resolved structures of GHS-R1a bound to ghrelin or potent ligands have provided useful information for the design of new GHS-R1a drugs. This perspective is focused on the development of recent nonpeptide small molecules acting as GHS-R1a agonists, antagonists, and inverse agonists, bearing classical or new molecular scaffolds, as well as on radiolabeled GHS-R1a ligands developed for imaging. Moreover, the pharmacological effects of the most studied ligands have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianfabio Giorgioni
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Fabio Del Bello
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Wilma Quaglia
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Luca Botticelli
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - E Micioni Di Bonaventura
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - M V Micioni Di Bonaventura
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Piergentili
- School of Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri, 62032 Camerino, Italy
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11
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Davis TR, Pierce MR, Novak SX, Hougland JL. Ghrelin octanoylation by ghrelin O-acyltransferase: protein acylation impacting metabolic and neuroendocrine signalling. Open Biol 2021; 11:210080. [PMID: 34315274 PMCID: PMC8316800 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The acylated peptide hormone ghrelin impacts a wide range of physiological processes but is most well known for controlling hunger and metabolic regulation. Ghrelin requires a unique posttranslational modification, serine octanoylation, to bind and activate signalling through its cognate GHS-R1a receptor. Ghrelin acylation is catalysed by ghrelin O-acyltransferase (GOAT), a member of the membrane-bound O-acyltransferase (MBOAT) enzyme family. The ghrelin/GOAT/GHS-R1a system is defined by multiple unique aspects within both protein biochemistry and endocrinology. Ghrelin serves as the only substrate for GOAT within the human proteome and, among the multiple hormones involved in energy homeostasis and metabolism such as insulin and leptin, acts as the only known hormone in circulation that directly stimulates appetite and hunger signalling. Advances in GOAT enzymology, structural modelling and inhibitor development have revolutionized our understanding of this enzyme and offered new tools for investigating ghrelin signalling at the molecular and organismal levels. In this review, we briefly summarize the current state of knowledge regarding ghrelin signalling and ghrelin/GOAT enzymology, discuss the GOAT structural model in the context of recently reported MBOAT enzyme superfamily member structures, and highlight the growing complement of GOAT inhibitors that offer options for both ghrelin signalling studies and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasha R Davis
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244 USA
| | - Mariah R Pierce
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244 USA
| | - Sadie X Novak
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244 USA
| | - James L Hougland
- Department of Chemistry, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244 USA.,BioInspired Syracuse, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244 USA
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12
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Rossi E, Cassioli E, Gironi V, Idrizaj E, Garella R, Squecco R, Baccari MC, Maggi M, Vignozzi L, Comeglio P, Ricca V, Castellini G. Ghrelin as a possible biomarker and maintaining factor in patients with eating disorders reporting childhood traumatic experiences. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2021; 29:588-599. [PMID: 33939220 PMCID: PMC8251850 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2831] [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: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The recent conceptualization of ghrelin as a stress hormone suggested that its chronic alterations may have a role in maintaining overeating behaviors in subjects with eating disorders (EDs) reporting childhood traumatic experiences. The aim of this study was to investigate the alterations of ghrelin levels in patients with EDs, their associations with early trauma, binge and emotional eating, and possible moderation/mediation models. METHOD Sixty-four patients with EDs and 42 healthy controls (HCs) had their plasma ghrelin levels measured and completed questionnaires evaluating general and ED-specific psychopathology, emotional eating, and childhood traumatic experiences. RESULTS Participants with anorexia nervosa had higher ghrelin levels than HCs in body mass index (BMI)-adjusted comparisons. Moreover, patients reporting a history of childhood trauma had higher ghrelin levels. Childhood sexual abuse (CSA), BMI, and self-induced vomiting were independent predictors of ghrelin levels. Moderation analyses showed that ghrelin levels were associated with binge and emotional eating only for higher levels of childhood trauma. Elevated ghrelin was a significant mediator for the association of CSA with binge eating. CONCLUSIONS These results support the hypothesis that chronic alterations in ghrelin levels following childhood traumatic experiences could represent a neurobiological maintaining factor of pathological overeating behaviors in EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Rossi
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Emanuele Cassioli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Veronica Gironi
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eglantina Idrizaj
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Rachele Garella
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Squecco
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Baccari
- Section of Physiological Sciences, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Valdo Ricca
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Castellini
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In this review, we present recent insights into the role of the gut microbiota on gastrointestinal (GI) peptide secretion and signalling, with a focus on the orexigenic hormone, ghrelin. RECENT FINDINGS Evidence is accumulating suggesting that secretion of GI peptides is modulated by commensal bacteria present in our GI tract. Recent data shows that the gut microbiome impacts on ghrelinergic signalling through its metabolites, at the level of the ghrelin receptor (growth hormone secretagogue receptor) and highlights concomitant changes in circulating ghrelin levels with specific gut microbiota changes. However, the mechanisms by which the gut microbiota interacts with gut peptide secretion and signalling, including ghrelin, are still largely unknown. SUMMARY The gut microbiota may directly or indirectly influence secretion of the orexigenic hormone, ghrelin, similar to the modulation of satiety inducing GI hormones. Although data demonstrating a role of the microbiota on ghrelinergic signalling is starting to emerge, future mechanistic studies are needed to understand the full impact of the microbiota-ghrelin axis on metabolism and central-regulated homeostatic and non-homeostatic controls of food intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha K. Leeuwendaal
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience
- APC Microbiome, Ireland University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Harriët Schellekens
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience
- APC Microbiome, Ireland University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Fritz EM, Singewald N, De Bundel D. The Good, the Bad and the Unknown Aspects of Ghrelin in Stress Coping and Stress-Related Psychiatric Disorders. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020; 12:594484. [PMID: 33192444 PMCID: PMC7652849 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.594484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin is a peptide hormone released by specialized X/A cells in the stomach and activated by acylation. Following its secretion, it binds to ghrelin receptors in the periphery to regulate energy balance, but it also acts on the central nervous system where it induces a potent orexigenic effect. Several types of stressors have been shown to stimulate ghrelin release in rodents, including nutritional stressors like food deprivation, but also physical and psychological stressors such as foot shocks, social defeat, forced immobilization or chronic unpredictable mild stress. The mechanism through which these stressors drive ghrelin release from the stomach lining remains unknown and, to date, the resulting consequences of ghrelin release for stress coping remain poorly understood. Indeed, ghrelin has been proposed to act as a stress hormone that reduces fear, anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in rodents but some studies suggest that ghrelin may - in contrast - promote such behaviors. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the literature on the role of the ghrelin system in stress coping. We discuss whether ghrelin release is more than a byproduct of disrupted energy homeostasis following stress exposure. Furthermore, we explore the notion that ghrelin receptor signaling in the brain may have effects independent of circulating ghrelin and in what way this might influence stress coping in rodents. Finally, we examine how the ghrelin system could be utilized as a therapeutic avenue in stress-related psychiatric disorders (with a focus on anxiety- and trauma-related disorders), for example to develop novel biomarkers for a better diagnosis or new interventions to tackle relapse or treatment resistance in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Maria Fritz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy and CMBI, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Nicolas Singewald
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy and CMBI, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Dimitri De Bundel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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