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Falvo S, Grillo G, Latino D, Chieffi Baccari G, Di Fiore MM, Venditti M, Petito G, Santillo A. Potential role of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum in the response elicited by D-aspartate in TM4 Sertoli cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1438231. [PMID: 39105170 PMCID: PMC11298366 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1438231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
D-Aspartic Acid (D-Asp) affects spermatogenesis by enhancing the biosynthesis of the sex steroid hormones acting either through the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis axis or directly on Leydig cells. Recently, in vitro studies have also demonstrated the direct effects of D-Asp on the proliferation and/or activity of germ cells. However, although D-Asp is present in Sertoli cells (SC), the specific role of the amino acid in these cells remains unknown. This study investigated the effects of D-Asp on the proliferation and activity of TM4 SC, focusing on the mitochondrial compartment and its association with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We found that D-Asp enhanced the proliferation and activity of TM4 cells as evidenced by the activation of ERK/Akt/PCNA pathway and the increase in the protein levels of the androgen receptor. Furthermore, D-Asp reduced both the oxidative stress and apoptotic process. An increase in mitochondrial functionality and dynamics, as well as a reduction in ER stress, were also found in D-Asp-treated TM4 cells. It is known that mitochondria are closely associated with ER to form the Mitochondrial-Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Membranes (MAM), the site of calcium ions and lipid transfer from ER to the mitochondria, and vice versa. The data demonstrated that D-Asp induced stabilization of MAM in TM4 cells. In conclusion, this study is the first to demonstrate a direct effect of D-Asp on SC activity and to clarify the cellular/molecular mechanism underlying these effects, suggesting that D-Asp could stimulate spermatogenesis by improving the efficiency of SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Falvo
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Giulia Grillo
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Debora Latino
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Petito
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
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2
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Villa PA, Ruggiero-Ruff RE, Jamieson BB, Campbell RE, Coss D. Obesity Alters POMC and Kisspeptin Neuron Cross Talk Leading to Reduced Luteinizing Hormone in Male Mice. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0222242024. [PMID: 38744532 PMCID: PMC11236585 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0222-24.2024] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is associated with hypogonadism in males, characterized by low testosterone and sperm number. Previous studies determined that these stem from dysregulation of hypothalamic circuitry that regulates reproduction, by unknown mechanisms. Herein, we used mice fed chronic high-fat diet, which mimics human obesity, to determine mechanisms of impairment at the level of the hypothalamus, in particular gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons that regulate luteinizing hormone (LH), which then regulates testosterone. Consistent with obese humans, we demonstrated lower LH, and lower pulse frequency of LH secretion, but unchanged pituitary responsiveness to GnRH. LH pulse frequency is regulated by pulsatile GnRH secretion, which is controlled by kisspeptin. Peripheral and central kisspeptin injections, and DREADD-mediated activation of kisspeptin neurons, demonstrated that kisspeptin neurons were suppressed in obese mice. Thus, we investigated regulators of kisspeptin secretion. We determined that the LH response to NMDA was lower in obese mice, corresponding to fewer glutamate receptors in kisspeptin neurons, which may be critical for kisspeptin synchronization. Given that kisspeptin neurons also interact with anorexigenic POMC neurons, which are affected by obesity, we examined their cross talk, and determined that the LH response to either DREADD-mediated activation of POMC neurons or central injection of αMSH, a product of POMC, is abolished in obese mice. This was accompanied by diminished levels of αMSH receptor, MC4R, in kisspeptin neurons. Together, our studies determined that obesity leads to the downregulation of receptors that regulate kisspeptin neurons, which is associated with lower LH pulse frequency, leading to lower LH and hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro A Villa
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Rebecca E Ruggiero-Ruff
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
| | - Bradley B Jamieson
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521
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3
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Ishii C, Tojo Y, Iwasaki K, Fujii A, Akita T, Nagano M, Mita M, Ide T, Hamase K. Development of a two-dimensional LC-MS/MS system for the determination of proline and 4-hydroxyproline enantiomers in biological and food samples. ANAL SCI 2024; 40:881-889. [PMID: 38598049 DOI: 10.1007/s44211-024-00530-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
A two-dimensional LC-MS/MS system has been developed for the enantioselective determination of proline (Pro), cis-4-hydroxyproline (cis-4-Hyp) and trans-4-hydroxyproline (trans-4-Hyp) in a variety of biological samples. The amino acids were pre-column derivatized with 4-fluoro-7-nitro-2,1,3-benzoxadiazole (NBD-F), and the NBD-derivatives were separated by a reversed-phase column (Singularity RP18) as their D plus L mixtures in the first dimension. The collected target fractions were then introduced into the second dimension where the enantiomers were separated by a Pirkle-type enantioselective column (Singularity CSP-001S) and determined by a tandem mass spectrometer (Triple Quad™ 5500). The method was validated by the standard amino acids and also by human plasma, and sufficient results were obtained for the calibration, precision and accuracy. The method was applied to human plasma and urine, bivalve tissues and fermented food/beverages. D-Pro was widely found in the human physiological fluids, bivalves and several fermented products. Although trans-4-D-Hyp was not found in all the tested samples, cis-4-D-Hyp was present in human urine and tissues of the ark shell, and further studies focusing on the origin and physiological significance of these D-enantiomers are expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiharu Ishii
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Yosuke Tojo
- MIRAI Technology Institute, Shiseido Co., Ltd., 1-2-11 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, 220-0011, Japan
| | - Komei Iwasaki
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Akira Fujii
- Sakamoto Kurozu, Inc., 21-15 Uenosono-cho, Kagoshima, 890-0052, Japan
| | - Takeyuki Akita
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masanobu Nagano
- Sakamoto Kurozu, Inc., 21-15 Uenosono-cho, Kagoshima, 890-0052, Japan
| | - Masashi Mita
- KAGAMI, Inc., 7-7-15, Saito-asagi, Ibaraki, Osaka, 567-0085, Japan
| | - Tomomi Ide
- Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kenji Hamase
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
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4
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Katane M, Homma H. Biosynthesis and Degradation of Free D-Amino Acids and Their Physiological Roles in the Periphery and Endocrine Glands. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:562-579. [PMID: 38432912 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00485] [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] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
It was long believed that D-amino acids were either unnatural isomers or laboratory artifacts, and that the important functions of amino acids were exerted only by L-amino acids. However, recent investigations have revealed a variety of D-amino acids in mammals that play important roles in physiological functions, including free D-serine and D-aspartate that are crucial in the central nervous system. The functions of several D-amino acids in the periphery and endocrine glands are also receiving increasing attention. Here, we present an overview of recent advances in elucidating the physiological roles of D-amino acids, especially in the periphery and endocrine glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masumi Katane
- Medicinal Research Laboratories, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Hiroshi Homma
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kitasato University
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5
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Koyama H, Takahashi Y, Matori S, Kuniyoshi H, Kurose K. A newly identified enzyme from Japanese common squid Todarodes pacificus has the ability to biosynthesize d-aspartate. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 750:109809. [PMID: 37925062 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109809] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Amino acids exist in two chiral forms, namely L and D. Although l-amino acids are predominant in vivo, certain limited circumstances have reported the usage of d-amino acids. d-aspartate (Asp), among them, plays crucial physiological roles in living organisms and is biosynthesized from L-Asp by the enzyme named aspartate racemase (AspRase). D-Asp is known to accumulate in large amounts in the nervous system of cephalopods. To understand the function of D-Asp in nervous system in more detail, it is necessary to elucidate its metabolic pathway; however, AspRase gene has not been identified in cephalopods as in the case of mammals. In this study, we successfully identified a novel gene encoding AspRase from the optic ganglion of Japanese common squid Todarodes pacificus. Our discovery of the squid AspRase challenges the prevailing assumption that AspRases across different animals share similar structures. Surprisingly, the squid AspRase is a unique enzyme that differs significantly from known AspRases, being structurally and phylogenetically related to aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and possessing both AspRase and AST activities. The optimum pH and temperature for AspRase activity using L-Asp as a substrate are approximately 7.0 and 20 °C, respectively. Moreover, we have found that AspRase activity is enhanced in the presence of 2-oxoacids. These findings have far-reaching implications for the understanding of enzymology and suggest that yet-to-be-identified mammalian AspRases may also be phylogenetically related to AST, rather than conventional AspRases. Furthermore, our results provide valuable insights into the evolution of the D-Asp biosynthetic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Koyama
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo, 108-8477, Japan.
| | - Yui Takahashi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo, 108-8477, Japan
| | - San Matori
- Program of Food and AgriLife Science, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University Higashi-hiroshima, 739-8528, Japan
| | - Hisato Kuniyoshi
- Program of Food and AgriLife Science, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University Higashi-hiroshima, 739-8528, Japan
| | - Kouichi Kurose
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo, 108-8477, Japan
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6
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Ishii C, Hamase K. Two-dimensional LC-MS/MS and three-dimensional LC analysis of chiral amino acids and related compounds in real-world matrices. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2023; 235:115627. [PMID: 37633168 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115627] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Amino acids normally have a chiral carbon and d/l-enantiomers are present. Due to the homochirality features on the present Earth, l-enantiomers are predominant in the living beings and the d-enantiomers are rare. Along with the progress and development of cutting edge analytical methods, several d-amino acids were found even in the higher animals including humans, and their biological functions and diagnostic values have also been reported. However, the amounts of these d-amino acids are much lower than the l-forms, and development/utilization of highly sensitive and selective methods are practically essential to avoid the disturbance from uncountable intrinsic substances. In the present review, multi-dimensional HPLC methods for the determination of chiral amino acids, especially two-dimensional LC-MS/MS and three-dimensional LC methods, and their applications to a variety of real-world matrices are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiharu Ishii
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kenji Hamase
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
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7
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Du S, Wey M, Armstrong DW. d-Amino acids in biological systems. Chirality 2023; 35:508-534. [PMID: 37074214 DOI: 10.1002/chir.23562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Investigations on the occurrence and biochemical roles of free D-amino acids and D-amino acid-containing peptides and proteins in living systems have increased in frequency and significance. Their occurrence and roles may vary substantially with progression from microbiotic to evermore advanced macrobiotic systems. We now understand many of the biosynthetic and regulatory pathways, which are outlined herein. Important uses for D-amino acids in plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates are reviewed. Given its importance, a separate section on the occurrence and role of D-amino acids in human disease is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Du
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, USA
| | - Michael Wey
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, USA
| | - Daniel W Armstrong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, USA
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8
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Qiu TA, Lee CJ, Huang C, Lee DK, Rubakhin SS, Romanova EV, Sweedler JV. Biodistribution and racemization of gut-absorbed L/D-alanine in germ-free mice. Commun Biol 2023; 6:851. [PMID: 37587187 PMCID: PMC10432453 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05209-y] [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: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbiome-derived metabolites are important for the microbiome-gut-brain axis and the discovery of new disease treatments. D-Alanine (D-Ala) is found in many animals as a potential co-agonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR), receptors widely used in the nervous and endocrine systems. The gut microbiome, diet and putative endogenous synthesis are the potential sources of D-Ala in animals, although there is no direct evidence to show the distribution and racemization of gut-absorbed L-/D-Ala with regards to host-microbe interactions in mammals. In this work, we utilized germ-free mice to control the interference from microbiota and isotopically labeled L-/D-Ala to track their biodistribution and racemization in vivo. Results showed time-dependent biodistribution of gut-absorbed D-Ala, particularly accumulation of gut-absorbed D-Ala in pancreatic tissues, brain, and pituitary. No endogenous synthesis of D-Ala via racemization was observed in germ-free mice. The sources of D-Ala in mice were revealed as microbiota and diet, but not endogenous racemization. This work indicates the importance of further investigating the in vivo biological functions of gut-microbiome derived D-Ala, particularly on NMDAR-related activities, for D-Ala as a potential signaling molecules in the microbiome-gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Autumn Qiu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Cindy J Lee
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Chen Huang
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Dong-Kyu Lee
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Stanislav S Rubakhin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Elena V Romanova
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jonathan V Sweedler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
- Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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9
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Hessock EA, Edwards JL, Schrick FN, Payton RR, Campagna SR, Pollock AB, Clark HM, Stokes AE, Klabnik JL, Hill KS, Roberts SR, Hinson MG, Moorey SE. Metabolite abundance in bovine preovulatory follicular fluid is influenced by follicle developmental progression post estrous onset in cattle. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1156060. [PMID: 37215073 PMCID: PMC10196500 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1156060] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Preovulatory follicle response to the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge leads to metabolic, molecular, and functional changes in the oocyte and somatic follicular cells from the onset of estrus to ovulation. Follicular fluid contains metabolites, miRNAs, proteins, and hormones that are byproducts of follicular metabolism and support cellular processes of oocyte, cumulus, and granulosa constituents. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of follicular fluid composition to support fertility, but critical gaps exist toward understanding dynamic modifications in the follicular fluid metabolome from estrous onset to ovulation. The hypothesis was that abundance of follicular fluid metabolites is dependent on follicle progression post LH surge and variability in follicular fluid metabolome profiles indicate key processes required for preparation of the follicle and oocyte for optimal fertility. The objective was to generate preovulatory follicular fluid metabolome profiles and discern differences in the metabolome of preovulatory follicular fluid samples collected at onset of estrus, 11 h post estrous onset, and 18 h post estrous onset. Methods: Estrus was synchronized in non-lactating Jersey cows (n=40) and follicular fluid was collected immediately after the first observed standing mount (hr 0) or at approximately h 11 or 18 after the first standing mount. Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry was performed on preovulatory follicular fluid samples (n = 9 collected at hr 0, 9 at h 11, and 10 at h 18) and a multiple linear model was performed to determine if time post estrous onset impacted metabolite abundance. Results: Metabolites influenced by time post estrous onset were tested for enrichment in KEGG pathways. Ninety metabolites were identified in follicular fluid samples. Twenty metabolites differed in abundance among timepoints post estrous onset (p ≤ 0.05). Pathways corresponding to amino acid and energy metabolism were enriched with metabolites impacted by time post estrous onset (FDR ≤ 0.10). Discussion: Results from the current study indicate early response to the LH surge to increase bioavailability of amino acids and metabolites used by the cumulus and granulosa cells for energy production and shuttled into the oocyte to support meiotic maturation. Such metabolites may later be used by the ovulatory follicle for protein production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma A. Hessock
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - J. Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - F. Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Rebecca R. Payton
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Shawn R. Campagna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Abigayle B. Pollock
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Hannah M. Clark
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Allyson E. Stokes
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Jessica L. Klabnik
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Kennedy S. Hill
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Samantha R. Roberts
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Meredith G. Hinson
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Sarah E. Moorey
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
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10
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Santillo A, Falvo S, Venditti M, Di Maio A, Chieffi Baccari G, Errico F, Usiello A, Minucci S, Di Fiore MM. D-Aspartate Depletion Perturbs Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis in Mice. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13040621. [PMID: 37189369 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
High levels of free D-aspartate (D-Asp) are present in vertebrate testis during post-natal development, coinciding with the onset of testosterone production, which suggests that this atypical amino acid might participate in the regulation of hormone biosynthesis. To elucidate the unknown role of D-Asp on testicular function, we investigated steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in a one-month-old knockin mouse model with the constitutive depletion of D-Asp levels due to the targeted overexpression of D-aspartate oxidase (DDO), which catalyzes the deaminative oxidation of D-Asp to generate the corresponding α-keto acid, oxaloacetate, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonium ions. In the Ddo knockin mice, we found a dramatic reduction in testicular D-Asp levels, accompanied by a significant decrease in the serum testosterone levels and testicular 17β-HSD, the enzyme involved in testosterone biosynthesis. Additionally, in the testes of these Ddo knockin mice, the expression of PCNA and SYCP3 proteins decreased, suggesting alterations in spermatogenesis-related processes, as well as an increase in the cytosolic cytochrome c protein levels and TUNEL-positive cell number, which indicate an increase in apoptosis. To further investigate the histological and morphometric testicular alterations in Ddo knockin mice, we analyzed the expression and localization of prolyl endopeptidase (PREP) and disheveled-associated activator of morphogenesis 1 (DAAM1), two proteins involved in cytoskeletal organization. Our results showed that the testicular levels of DAAM1 and PREP in Ddo knockin mice were different from those in wild-type animals, suggesting that the deficiency of D-Asp is associated with overall cytoskeletal disorganization. Our findings confirmed that physiological D-Asp influences testosterone biosynthesis and plays a crucial role in germ cell proliferation and differentiation, which are required for successful reproduction.
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11
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D-Amino Acids and Cancer: Friends or Foes? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043274. [PMID: 36834677 PMCID: PMC9962368 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
α-amino acids exist in two configurations, named D-(dextro) and L-(levo) enantiomers. L-amino acids are used in protein synthesis and play a central role in cell metabolism. The effects of the L-amino acid composition of foods and the dietary modifications of this composition on the efficacy of cancer therapies have been widely investigated in relation to the growth and reproduction of cancerous cells. However, less is known about the involvement of D-amino acids. In recent decades, D-amino acids have been identified as natural biomolecules that play interesting and specific roles as common components of the human diet. Here, we focus on recent investigations showing altered D-amino acid levels in specific cancer types and on the various roles proposed for these biomolecules related to cancer cell proliferation, cell protection during therapy, and as putative, innovative biomarkers. Notwithstanding recent progress, the relationship between the presence of D-amino acids, their nutritional value, and cancer cell proliferation and survival represents an underrated scientific issue. Few studies on human samples have been reported to date, suggesting a need for routine analysis of D-amino acid content and an evaluation of the enzymes involved in regulating their levels in clinical samples in the near future.
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12
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Louters M, Pearlman M, Solsrud E, Pearlman A. Functional hypogonadism among patients with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Int J Impot Res 2022; 34:714-720. [PMID: 34775481 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-021-00496-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone deficiency, defined as low total testosterone combined with physical, cognitive, and sexual signs and/or symptoms, is a common finding in adult men. Functional hypogonadism (FH) is defined as borderline low testosterone (T) secondary to aging and/or comorbid conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and/or metabolic syndrome. The relationship between FH and metabolic disorders is multifactorial and bidirectional, and associated with a disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Resolution of FH requires the correct diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition(s) with lifestyle modifications considered first-line therapy. Normalization of T levels through dietary modifications such as caloric restriction and restructuring of macronutrients have recently been explored. Exercise and sleep quality have been associated with T levels, and patients should be encouraged to practice resistance training and sleep seven to nine hours per night. Supplementation with vitamin D and Trigonella foenum-graecum may also be considered when optimizing T levels. Ultimately, treatment of FH requires a multidisciplinary approach and personalized patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marne Louters
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Michelle Pearlman
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Emily Solsrud
- Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Amy Pearlman
- Department of Urology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Lee CJ, Qiu TA, Hong Z, Zhang Z, Min Y, Zhang L, Dai L, Zhao H, Si T, Sweedler JV. Profiling of d-alanine production by the microbial isolates of rat gut microbiota. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22446. [PMID: 35816159 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101595r] [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: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
d-alanine (d-Ala) and several other d-amino acids (d-AAs) act as hormones and neuromodulators in nervous and endocrine systems. Unlike the endogenously synthesized d-serine in animals, d-Ala may be from exogenous sources, e.g., diet and intestinal microorganisms. However, it is unclear if the capability to produce d-Ala and other d-AAs varies among different microbial strains in the gut. We isolated individual microorganisms of rat gut microbiota and profiled their d-AA production in vitro, focusing on d-Ala. Serial dilutions of intestinal contents from adult male rats were plated on agar to obtain clonal cultures. Using MALDI-TOF MS for rapid strain typing, we identified 38 unique isolates, grouped into 11 species based on 16S rRNA gene sequences. We then used two-tier screening to profile bacterial d-AA production, combining a d-amino acid oxidase-based enzymatic assay for rapid assessment of non-acidic d-AA amount and chiral LC-MS/MS to quantify individual d-AAs, revealing 19 out of the 38 isolated strains as d-AA producers. LC-MS/MS analysis of the eight top d-AA producers showed high levels of d-Ala in all strains tested, with substantial inter- and intra-species variations. Though results from the enzymatic assay and LC-MS/MS analysis aligned well, LC-MS/MS further revealed the existence of d-glutamate and d-aspartate, which are poor substrates for this enzymatic assay. We observed large inter- and intra-species variation of d-AA production profiles from rat gut microbiome species, demonstrating the importance of chemical profiling of gut microbiota in addition to sequencing, furthering the idea that microbial metabolites modulate host physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy J Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Tian A Qiu
- Department of Chemistry, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Zhilai Hong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhenkun Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuhao Min
- Department of Chemistry, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Linzixuan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Lei Dai
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huimin Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Tong Si
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jonathan V Sweedler
- Department of Chemistry, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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14
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de Bartolomeis A, Vellucci L, Austin MC, De Simone G, Barone A. Rational and Translational Implications of D-Amino Acids for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia: From Neurobiology to the Clinics. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12070909. [PMID: 35883465 PMCID: PMC9312470 DOI: 10.3390/biom12070909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia has been conceptualized as a neurodevelopmental disorder with synaptic alterations and aberrant cortical–subcortical connections. Antipsychotics are the mainstay of schizophrenia treatment and nearly all share the common feature of dopamine D2 receptor occupancy, whereas glutamatergic abnormalities are not targeted by the presently available therapies. D-amino acids, acting as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) modulators, have emerged in the last few years as a potential augmentation strategy in those cases of schizophrenia that do not respond well to antipsychotics, a condition defined as treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), affecting almost 30–40% of patients, and characterized by serious cognitive deficits and functional impairment. In the present systematic review, we address with a direct and reverse translational perspective the efficacy of D-amino acids, including D-serine, D-aspartate, and D-alanine, in poor responders. The impact of these molecules on the synaptic architecture is also considered in the light of dendritic spine changes reported in schizophrenia and antipsychotics’ effect on postsynaptic density proteins. Moreover, we describe compounds targeting D-amino acid oxidase and D-aspartate oxidase enzymes. Finally, other drugs acting at NMDAR and proxy of D-amino acids function, such as D-cycloserine, sarcosine, and glycine, are considered in the light of the clinical burden of TRS, together with other emerging molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea de Bartolomeis
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-7463673 or +39-081-7463884 or +39-3662745592; Fax: +39-081-7462644
| | - Licia Vellucci
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Mark C. Austin
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Program, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA;
| | - Giuseppe De Simone
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Annarita Barone
- Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.V.); (G.D.S.); (A.B.)
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15
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D-aspartic Acid Supplementation Effects on Body Composition: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials on Trained Males. Asian J Sports Med 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/asjsm-120161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: D-Aspartic acid (DAA) is an amino acid found in the brain and reproductive system. Some investigations have reported beneficial effects of DAA on brain function and reproductive system health by increasing testosterone through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. However, its effect on body composition is unknown. Given testosterone's role in muscle growth, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of DAA supplementation on the body composition of trained males. Evidence Acquisition: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science (until 1 August 2021) were searched for this systematic review. Inclusion criteria assumed as clinical trials assessed the effect of DAA on body composition in trained males. After including articles by keywords, the articles were reviewed for meeting the eligibility criteria. Three independent researchers conducted the search and full-text review. Results: Among 134 articles located during the primary search, five articles (47 interventions and 43 controls) were included in the study based on eligibility criteria. All included clinical trials had a low risk of bias. A review of the relevant literature concludes that different doses of DAA (three grams, six grams, 7.12, and 12 grams) in different intervention periods (two weeks, four weeks, and 12 weeks) have no effects on body composition in trained males. Conclusions: DAA supplementation is a low-level booster of testosterone and has no significant effect on the testosterone level in professional male athletes, and cannot alter the body composition.
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16
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Yoshikawa M, Kan T, Shirose K, Watanabe M, Matsuda M, Ito K, Kawaguchi M. Free d-Amino Acids in Salivary Gland in Rat. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:390. [PMID: 35336764 PMCID: PMC8944958 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Free d-amino acids, which are enantiomers of l-amino acids, are found in mammals, including humans, and play an important role in a range of physiological functions in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. Several d-amino acids have been observed in saliva, but their origin and the enzymes involved in their metabolism and catabolism remain to be clarified. In the present study, large amounts of d-aspartic acid and small amounts of d-serine and d-alanine were detected in all three major salivary glands in rat. No other d-enantiomers were detected. Protein expression of d-amino acid oxidase and d-aspartate oxidase, the enzymes responsible for the oxidative deamination of neutral and dicarboxylic d-amino acids, respectively, were detected in all three types of salivary gland. Furthermore, protein expression of the d-serine metabolic enzyme, serine racemase, in parotid glands amounted to approximately 40% of that observed in the cerebral cortex. The N-methyl-d-aspartic acid subunit proteins NR1 and NR2D were detected in all three major salivary glands. The results of the present study suggest that d-amino acids play a physiological role in a range of endocrine and exocrine function in salivary glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanobu Yoshikawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Isehara 259-1193, Japan
| | - Takugi Kan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Isehara 259-1193, Japan; (T.K.); (K.S.); (M.W.); (M.M.); (K.I.)
| | - Kosuke Shirose
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Isehara 259-1193, Japan; (T.K.); (K.S.); (M.W.); (M.M.); (K.I.)
| | - Mariko Watanabe
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Isehara 259-1193, Japan; (T.K.); (K.S.); (M.W.); (M.M.); (K.I.)
| | - Mitsumasa Matsuda
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Isehara 259-1193, Japan; (T.K.); (K.S.); (M.W.); (M.M.); (K.I.)
| | - Kenji Ito
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Isehara 259-1193, Japan; (T.K.); (K.S.); (M.W.); (M.M.); (K.I.)
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17
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Babayev E, Duncan FE. Age-associated changes in cumulus cells and follicular fluid: the local oocyte microenvironment as a determinant of gamete quality. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:351-365. [PMID: 34982142 PMCID: PMC8862720 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The ovary is the first organ to age in humans with functional decline evident already in women in their early 30s. Reproductive aging is characterized by a decrease in oocyte quantity and quality, which is associated with an increase in infertility, spontaneous abortions, and birth defects. Reproductive aging also has implications for overall health due to decreased endocrinological output. Understanding the mechanisms underlying reproductive aging has significant societal implications as women globally are delaying childbearing and medical interventions have greatly increased the interval between menopause and total lifespan. Age-related changes inherent to the female gamete are well-characterized and include defects in chromosome and mitochondria structure, function, and regulation. More recently, it has been appreciated that the extra-follicular ovarian environment may have important direct or indirect impacts on the developing gamete, and age-dependent changes include increased fibrosis, inflammation, stiffness, and oxidative damage. The cumulus cells and follicular fluid that directly surround the oocyte during its final growth phase within the antral follicle represent additional critical local microenvironments. Here we systematically review the literature and evaluate the studies that investigated the age-related changes in cumulus cells and follicular fluid. Our findings demonstrate unique genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic changes with associated metabolomic alterations, redox status imbalance, and increased apoptosis in the local oocyte microenvironment. We propose a model of how these changes interact, which may explain the rapid decline in gamete quality with age. We also review the limitations of published studies and highlight future research frontiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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18
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d-aspartate and N-methyl-d-aspartate promote proliferative activity in mouse spermatocyte GC-2 cells. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100601. [PMID: 35032869 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
D-Aspartate (D-Asp) and its methylated form N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) promote spermatogenesis by stimulating the biosynthesis of sex steroid hormones. d-Asp also induces spermatogonia proliferation directly by activating the ERK/Aurora B pathway. In the present study, a mouse spermatocyte-derived cell line (GC-2) which represents a stage between preleptotene spermatocyte and round spermatids was exposed to 200 μM d-Asp or 50 μM NMDA for 30 min, 2 h, and 4 h to explore the influence of these amino acids on cell proliferation and mitochondrial activities occurring during this process. By Western blotting analyses, the expressions of AMPAR (GluA1-GluA2/3 subunits), cell proliferation as well as mitochondria functionality markers were determined at different incubation times. The results revealed that d-Asp or NMDA stimulate proliferation and meiosis in the GC-2 cells via the AMPAR/ERK/Akt pathway, which led to increased levels of the PCNA, p-H3, and SYCP3 proteins. The effects of d-Asp and NMDA on the mitochondrial functionality of the GC-2 cells strongly suggested an active role of these amino acids in germ cell maturation. In both d-Asp- and NMDA-treated GC-2 cells mitochondrial biogenesis as well as mitochondrial fusion are increased while mitochondria fission is inhibited. Finally, the findings showed that NMDA significantly increased the expressions of the CII, CIII, CIV, and CV complexes of oxidative phosphorylation system (OXPHOS), whereas d-Asp induced a significant increase in the expressions only of the CIV and CV complexes. The present study provides novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the role of d-Asp and NMDA in promoting spermatogenesis.
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19
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Tsuji A, Ikeda Y, Murakami M, Kitagishi Y, Matsuda S. d-Leucine protects oocytes from chronic psychological stress in mice. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 20:477-484. [PMID: 34646076 PMCID: PMC8499591 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Psychological stress could negatively influence female reproductive ability. d-Leucine (d-Leu) is a d-type amino acid found in foods and mammalian tissues. We have examined the protective effects of d-Leu on oocyte abnormality induced by psychological stress. METHODS Female mice (6-week-old) were divided into three groups: control, restraint stress (RS), and RS/d-Leu. The RS and RS/d-Leu mice were holed for 3 hours daily during 14 days. RS/d-Leu mice were fed 0.3% d-Leu diet. The oocyte maturation failure was analyzed by shapes of spindles and chromosomes. In addition, levels of heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression in the ovaries were also examined. Whether d-Leu reduces the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cultured cells, K562 cells were treated with d-Leu, and then ROS in K562 were analyzed. RESULTS Oocyte maturation failure was increased in RS mice. d-Leu reduced abnormal oocytes to control level. The expression levels of HO-1 and SOD2 increased in RS/d-Leu mice compared to those of RS mice. ROS levels were decreased in K562 cells with d-Leu in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that d-Leu protects oocytes from psychological stress through the induction of HO-1 and SOD2 expression then by reducing oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Tsuji
- Department of Food Science and NutritionFaculty of Human Life and EnvironmentNara Woman's UniversityNaraJapan
| | - Yuka Ikeda
- Department of Food Science and NutritionFaculty of Human Life and EnvironmentNara Woman's UniversityNaraJapan
| | - Mutsumi Murakami
- Department of Food Science and NutritionFaculty of Human Life and EnvironmentNara Woman's UniversityNaraJapan
| | - Yasuko Kitagishi
- Department of Food Science and NutritionFaculty of Human Life and EnvironmentNara Woman's UniversityNaraJapan
| | - Satoru Matsuda
- Department of Food Science and NutritionFaculty of Human Life and EnvironmentNara Woman's UniversityNaraJapan
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20
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Zachar G, Kemecsei R, Papp SM, Wéber K, Kisparti T, Tyler T, Gáspár G, Balázsa T, Csillag A. D-Aspartate consumption selectively promotes intermediate-term spatial memory and the expression of hippocampal NMDA receptor subunits. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6166. [PMID: 33731750 PMCID: PMC7969773 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85360-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
d-Aspartate (d-Asp) and d-serine (d-Ser) have been proposed to promote early-phase LTP in vitro and to enhance spatial memory in vivo. Here, we investigated the behavioural effects of chronic consumption of d-Asp and d-Ser on spatial learning of mice together with the expression of NMDA receptors. We also studied the alterations of neurogenesis by morphometric analysis of bromo-deoxyuridine incorporating and doublecortin expressing cells in the hippocampus. Our results specify a time period (3–4 h post-training), within which the animals exposed to d-Asp (but not d-Ser) show a more stable memory during retrieval. The cognitive improvement is due to elimination of transient bouts of destabilization and reconsolidation of memory, rather than to enhanced acquisition. d-Asp also protracted reversal learning probably due to reduced plasticity. Expression of GluN1 and GluN2A subunits was elevated in the hippocampus of d-Asp (but not d-Ser) treated mice. d-Asp or d-Ser did not alter the proliferation of neuronal progenitor cells in the hippocampus. The observed learning-related changes evoked by d-Asp are unlikely to be due to enhanced proliferation and recruitment of new neurones. Rather, they are likely associated with an upregulation of NMDA receptors, as well as a reorganization of receptor subunit assemblies in existing hippocampal/dentate neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergely Zachar
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary.
| | - Róbert Kemecsei
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Márta Papp
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Katalin Wéber
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kisparti
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Teadora Tyler
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Gábor Gáspár
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Tamás Balázsa
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - András Csillag
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58 Tűzoltó u, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
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Simultaneous Measurement of Amino Acid Enantiomers in Aged Mouse Brain Samples by LC/MS/MS Combined with Derivatization Using N
α-(5-Fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-l-leucinamide (l-FDLA). Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11010057. [PMID: 33467775 PMCID: PMC7829926 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
d-amino acids have distinct roles from their l-enantiomer. In particular, some d-amino acids function as agonists or antagonists of neuronal receptors and are involved in higher brain functions. Thus, it is important to precisely measure the levels of these amino acid enantiomers in cells and tissues. Various quantification methods have been developed for measurements of chiral amino acids. However, each method has advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, measuring the amino acid enantiomers in crude biological samples requires a higher selectivity. In this study, we developed a quantification method for amino acid enantiomers using derivatization with Nα-(5-Fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-l-leucinamide (l-FDLA) followed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) with a conventional reversed-phase column. We simultaneously identified 10 chiral amino acids. Furthermore, we applied this method to investigate murine tissue samples and examined the effect of aging on the amino acid levels in aged brain regions. We found that aging decreased the levels of both d-serine and d-aspartate in the hippocampus. In addition, d-Phenylalanine in the thalamus significantly increased with age. In conclusion, our method is suitable for the quantification of the d-amino acids in crude biological samples and may contribute to elucidating the biological roles of chiral amino acids.
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22
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Venditti M, Romano MZ, Aniello F, Minucci S. Preliminary Investigation on the Ameliorative Role Exerted by D-Aspartic Acid in Counteracting Ethane Dimethane Sulfonate (EDS) Toxicity in the Rat Testis. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11010133. [PMID: 33435542 PMCID: PMC7827869 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary For proper fertility, the production of good-quality spermatozoa is essential. Nowadays, many environmental pollutants affect the spermatogenetic process, at different levels. For this reason, new approaches are needed to prevent/counteract these toxic effects. Here, we showed that the excitatory amino acid D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) prevents the deadly action of ethane dimethane sulfonate (EDS) on the testosterone-secreting Leydig cells in rat testis. We found that EDS, probably via the reduced testosterone level, alters the normal histology of the seminiferous epithelium, leading to germ cells death and to the decreased protein level of two Leydig cell “markers”: steroidogenic acute regulatory and prolyl endopeptidase. In addition, the same analysis performed on rats that were pre-treated with D-Asp revealed a protective role of this compound, since all the above parameters were quite normal. Moreover, we found that the protective mechanism of action involved in this scenario may be due to the ability of D-Asp to reduce the oxidative stress induced by EDS. Based on these findings, we could affirm that D-Asp may be an encouraging candidate to be used to alleviate the harmful action due to environmental pollutants exposure, in order to maintain appropriate fertility. Abstract Herein is reported the first evidence of the protective role of D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) in preventing the toxic effect exerted by the alkylating agent ethane dimethane sulfonate (EDS) in the rat testis. We confirmed that EDS treatment specifically destroyed Leydig cells (LC), resulting in the drastic decrease of the serum testosterone level and producing morphological changes in the germinal tubules, i.e., altered organization of the epithelium, loss of cell contacts and the consequent presence of empty spaces between them, and a reduce number of spermatozoa. Moreover, an increase of TUNEL-positive germ cells, other than alteration in the protein level and localization of two LC “markers”, StAR and PREP, were observed. Interestingly, results obtained from rats pre-treated with D-Asp for 15 days before EDS-injection showed that all the considered parameters were quite normal. To explore the probable mechanism(s) involved in the protection exerted by D-Asp, we considered the increased oxidative stress induced by EDS and the D-Asp antioxidant effects. Thiobarbiturc acid-reactive species (TBARS) levels increased following EDS-injection, while no change was observed in the D-Asp + EDS treated rats. Our results showed that D-Asp may be used as a strategy to mitigate the toxic effects exerted by environmental pollutants, as endocrine disrupters, in order to preserve the reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (M.V.); (M.Z.R.)
| | - Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (M.V.); (M.Z.R.)
| | - Francesco Aniello
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli ‘Federico II, Via Cinthia’, 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy; (M.V.); (M.Z.R.)
- Correspondence:
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23
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Usiello A, Di Fiore MM, De Rosa A, Falvo S, Errico F, Santillo A, Nuzzo T, Chieffi Baccari G. New Evidence on the Role of D-Aspartate Metabolism in Regulating Brain and Endocrine System Physiology: From Preclinical Observations to Clinical Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8718. [PMID: 33218144 PMCID: PMC7698810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The endogenous amino acids serine and aspartate occur at high concentrations in free D-form in mammalian organs, including the central nervous system and endocrine glands. D-serine (D-Ser) is largely localized in the forebrain structures throughout pre and postnatal life. Pharmacologically, D-Ser plays a functional role by acting as an endogenous coagonist at N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). Less is known about the role of free D-aspartate (D-Asp) in mammals. Notably, D-Asp has a specific temporal pattern of occurrence. In fact, free D-Asp is abundant during prenatal life and decreases greatly after birth in concomitance with the postnatal onset of D-Asp oxidase expression, which is the only enzyme known to control endogenous levels of this molecule. Conversely, in the endocrine system, D-Asp concentrations enhance after birth during its functional development, thereby suggesting an involvement of the amino acid in the regulation of hormone biosynthesis. The substantial binding affinity for the NMDAR glutamate site has led us to investigate the in vivo implications of D-Asp on NMDAR-mediated responses. Herein we review the physiological function of free D-Asp and of its metabolizing enzyme in regulating the functions of the brain and of the neuroendocrine system based on recent genetic and pharmacological human and animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Usiello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
| | - Arianna De Rosa
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Napoli, Italy;
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
| | - Francesco Errico
- Dipartimento di Agraria, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Università, 100, 80055 Portici, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
| | - Tommaso Nuzzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
- CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania «L. Vanvitelli», Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (M.M.D.F.); (S.F.); (A.S.); (T.N.)
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Chieffi Baccari G, Falvo S, Santillo A, Di Giacomo Russo F, Di Fiore MM. D-Amino acids in mammalian endocrine tissues. Amino Acids 2020; 52:1263-1273. [PMID: 32930873 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-020-02892-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
D-Aspartate, D-serine and D-alanine are a regular occurrence in mammalian endocrine tissues, though in amounts varying with the type of gland. The pituitary gland, pineal gland, thyroid, adrenal glands and testis contain relatively large amounts of D-aspartate in all species examined. D-alanine is relatively abundant in the pituitary gland and pancreas. High levels of D-serine characterize the hypothalamus. D-leucine, D-proline and D-glutamate are generally low. The current knowledge of physiological roles of D-amino acids in endocrine tissues is far from exhaustive, yet the topic is attracting increasing interest because of its potential in pharmacological application. D-aspartate is known to act at all levels of the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis axis, playing a key role in reproductive biology in several vertebrate classes. An involvement of D-amino acids in the endocrine function of the pancreas is emerging. D-Aspartate has been immunolocalized in insulin-containing secretory granules in INS-1 E clonal β cells and is co-secreted with insulin by exocytosis. Specific immunolocalization of D-alanine in pituitary ACTH-secreting cells and pancreatic β-cells suggests that this amino acid participates in blood glucose regulation in mammals. By modulating insulin secretion, D-serine probably participates in the control of systemic glucose metabolism by modulating insulin secretion. We anticipate that future investigation will significantly increase the functional repertoire of D-amino acids in homeostatic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dip. Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi, 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dip. Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi, 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dip. Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi, 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Federica Di Giacomo Russo
- Dip. Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi, 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dip. Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi, 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy.
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Mallah K, Couch C, Borucki DM, Toutonji A, Alshareef M, Tomlinson S. Anti-inflammatory and Neuroprotective Agents in Clinical Trials for CNS Disease and Injury: Where Do We Go From Here? Front Immunol 2020; 11:2021. [PMID: 33013859 PMCID: PMC7513624 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are major contributors to death and disability worldwide. The pathology of injuries and disease processes includes a cascade of events that often involve molecular and cellular components of the immune system and their interaction with cells and structures within the central nervous system. Because of this, there has been great interest in developing neuroprotective therapeutic approaches that target neuroinflammatory pathways. Several neuroprotective anti-inflammatory agents have been investigated in clinical trials for a variety of neurological diseases and injuries, but to date the results from the great majority of these trials has been disappointing. There nevertheless remains great interest in the development of neuroprotective strategies in this arena. With this in mind, the complement system is being increasingly discussed as an attractive therapeutic target for treating brain injury and neurodegenerative conditions, due to emerging data supporting a pivotal role for complement in promoting multiple downstream activities that promote neuroinflammation and degeneration. As we move forward in testing additional neuroprotective and immune-modulating agents, we believe it will be useful to review past trials and discuss potential factors that may have contributed to failure, which will assist with future agent selection and trial design, including for complement inhibitors. In this context, we also discuss inhibition of the complement system as a potential neuroprotective strategy for neuropathologies of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Mallah
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Christine Couch
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Davis M. Borucki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Amer Toutonji
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Neurosciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Mohammed Alshareef
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Stephen Tomlinson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Ralph Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States
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Roles of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and D-amino acids in cancer cell viability. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:6749-6758. [PMID: 32892308 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05733-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which are widely present in the central nervous system, have also been found to be up-regulated in a variety of cancer cells and tumors and they can play active roles in cancer cell growth regulation. NMDA receptor antagonists have been found to affect cancer cell viability and interfere with tumor growth. Moreover, cancer cells also have been shown to have elevated levels of some D-amino acids. Two human skin cell lines: Hs 895.T skin cancer and Hs 895.Sk skin normal cells were investigated. They were derived from the same patient to provide tumor and normal counterparts for comparative studies. The expression of specific NMDA receptors was confirmed for the first time in both skin cell lines. Dizocilpine (MK-801) and memantine, NMDA receptor channel blockers, were found to inhibit the growth of human skin cells by reducing or stopping NMDA receptor activity. Addition of D-Ser, D-Ala, or D-Asp, however, significantly reversed the antiproliferative effect on the human skin cells triggered by MK-801 or memantine. Even more interesting was the finding that the specific intracellular composition of a few relatively uncommon amino acids was selectively elevated in skin cancer cells when exposed to MK-801. It appears that a few specific and upregulated D-amino acids can reverse the drug-induced antiproliferative effect in skin cancer cells via the reactivation of NMDA receptors. This study provides a possible innovative anticancer therapy by acting on the D-amino acid pathway in cancer cells either blocking or activating their regulatory enzymes.
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Shibata K, Imanishi D, Abe K, Suzuki M, Takahashi S, Kera Y. d-Aspartate N-methyltransferase catalyzes biosynthesis of N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA), a well-known selective agonist of the NMDA receptor, in mice. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2020; 1868:140527. [PMID: 32853768 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2020.140527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
N-Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA), which is a selective agonist for the NMDA receptor, has recently been shown to be present in various biological tissues. In mammals, the activity of d-aspartate N-methyltransferase (DDNMT), which produces NMDA from d-aspartate, has been detected only in homogenates prepared from rat tissues. Moreover, the enzymatic properties of DDNMT have been poorly studied and its molecular entity has not yet been identified. In this report, we show for the first time that the activity of DDNMT is present in mouse tissues and succeed in obtaining a partially purified enzyme preparation from a mouse tissue homogenate with a purification fold of 1900 or more, and have characterized the enzymatic activity of this preparation. The results indicate that DDNMT, which is highly specific for d-aspartate and is S-adenosyl-l-methionine-dependent, is a novel enzyme that clearly differs from the known methylamine-glutamate N-methyltransferase (EC 2.1.1.21) and glycine N-methyltransferase (EC 2.1.1.20).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimihiko Shibata
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, 1603-1, Kamitomioka-machi, Nagaoka, Niigata 940-2188, Japan; Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Fukushima College, 30 Nagao, Kamiarakawa, Taira, Iwaki, Fukushima, 970-8034, Japan.
| | - Daiki Imanishi
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, 1603-1, Kamitomioka-machi, Nagaoka, Niigata 940-2188, Japan; Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Fukushima College, 30 Nagao, Kamiarakawa, Taira, Iwaki, Fukushima, 970-8034, Japan
| | - Katsumasa Abe
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, 1603-1, Kamitomioka-machi, Nagaoka, Niigata 940-2188, Japan
| | - Masataka Suzuki
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Fukushima College, 30 Nagao, Kamiarakawa, Taira, Iwaki, Fukushima, 970-8034, Japan
| | - Shouji Takahashi
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, 1603-1, Kamitomioka-machi, Nagaoka, Niigata 940-2188, Japan
| | - Yoshio Kera
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, 1603-1, Kamitomioka-machi, Nagaoka, Niigata 940-2188, Japan
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Dalangin R, Kim A, Campbell RE. The Role of Amino Acids in Neurotransmission and Fluorescent Tools for Their Detection. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6197. [PMID: 32867295 PMCID: PMC7503967 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotransmission between neurons, which can occur over the span of a few milliseconds, relies on the controlled release of small molecule neurotransmitters, many of which are amino acids. Fluorescence imaging provides the necessary speed to follow these events and has emerged as a powerful technique for investigating neurotransmission. In this review, we highlight some of the roles of the 20 canonical amino acids, GABA and β-alanine in neurotransmission. We also discuss available fluorescence-based probes for amino acids that have been shown to be compatible for live cell imaging, namely those based on synthetic dyes, nanostructures (quantum dots and nanotubes), and genetically encoded components. We aim to provide tool developers with information that may guide future engineering efforts and tool users with information regarding existing indicators to facilitate studies of amino acid dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rochelin Dalangin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G2, Canada; (R.D.); (A.K.)
| | - Anna Kim
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G2, Canada; (R.D.); (A.K.)
| | - Robert E. Campbell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G2, Canada; (R.D.); (A.K.)
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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D-Aspartate Upregulates DAAM1 Protein Levels in the Rat Testis and Induces Its Localization in Spermatogonia Nucleus. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10050677. [PMID: 32353957 PMCID: PMC7277804 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell differentiation during spermatogenesis requires a proper actin dynamic, regulated by several proteins, including formins. Disheveled-Associated-Activator of Morphogenesis1 (DAAM1) belongs to the formins and promotes actin polymerization. Our results showed that oral D-Aspartate (D-Asp) administration, an excitatory amino acid, increased DAAM1 protein levels in germ cells cytoplasm of rat testis. Interestingly, after the treatment, DAAM1 also localized in rat spermatogonia (SPG) and mouse GC-1 cells nuclei. We provided bioinformatic evidence that DAAM1 sequence has two predicted NLS, supporting its nuclear localization. The data also suggested a role of D-Asp in promoting DAAM1 shuttling to the nuclear compartment of those proliferative cells. In addition, the proliferative action induced by D-Asp is confirmed by the increased levels of PCNA, a protein expressed in the nucleus of cells in the S phase and p-H3, a histone crucial for chromatin condensation during mitosis and meiosis. In conclusion, we demonstrated, for the first time, an increased DAAM1 protein levels following D-Asp treatment in rat testis and also its localization in the nucleus of rat SPG and in mouse GC-1 cells. Our results suggest an assumed role for this formin as a regulator of actin dynamics in both cytoplasm and nuclei of the germ cells.
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Piñeyro-Ruiz C, Chorna NE, Pérez-Brayfield MR, Jorge JC. Severity-Dependent Profile of the Metabolome in Hypospadias. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:202. [PMID: 32391298 PMCID: PMC7192966 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.00202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Objective: Hypospadias, characterized by the displacement of the opening of the urethra at any point in the medial-ventral side of the penis, is classified upon severity as mild (Type I) and severe (Type II and Type III) hypospadias. Hypospadias' etiology is idiopathic in the majority of cases, and underlying causes seem of multifactorial origin. Studies regarding genetic variants support this notion. It is unknown whether downstream gene products fit this profile. This study evaluated the metabolome of hypospadias by using the emerging technology of metabolomics in the search for distinct cellular processes associated with hypospadias' etiology according to the severity of this congenital urogenital condition. Methods: Foreskin samples were collected during urethroplasty from boys with Type I, II, and III hypospadias or undergoing elective circumcision (N = 28) between 5 and 28 months of age. Samples were processed and submitted to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). MetaboloAnalyst (http://www.metaboanalyst.ca/) online platform was used for bioinformatic analyses. Results: Thirty-five metabolites across experimental groups were identified by GC/MS. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) showed that the metabolome of Type II and Type III hypospadias patients differs from the metabolome of Type I hypospadias and control patients. Of those 35, 10 amino acids were found in significantly low concentrations in severe hypospadias: aspartate, glutamate, glycine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, and tyrosine. A high concentration of the amino acid lysine was detected in mild hypospadias. Conclusions: The observed downregulation of specific amino acids in severe hypospadias provides alternative routes for future research aiming to identify disrupted networks and pathways while considering the severity of hypospadias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coriness Piñeyro-Ruiz
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, United States
| | - Nataliya E Chorna
- Department of Biochemistry, PR-INBRE Metabolomics Research Core, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, United States
| | | | - Juan Carlos Jorge
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, United States
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Umakoshi Y, Nakano Y, Fukuda K, Watanabe K, Miyawaki I, Fukusaki E. Automatic switching valve system to minimize variation of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry-based chiral amino acid profiling. J Biosci Bioeng 2019; 128:773-779. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2019.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Shibata K, Hagiya S, Okawara R, Abe K, Takahashi S, Kera Y. Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometric assay for d-aspartate N-methyltransferase activity in ark shells. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2019; 84:500-506. [PMID: 31694479 DOI: 10.1080/09168451.2019.1689094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
A liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) method for the separation and quantification of the enantiomers of N-methylaspartate and N-methylglutamate, after derivatization with Nα-(5-fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-L-leucinamide was established. The time required for the LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis was within 20 min and the detection limit was approximately 10 fmol per injection, demonstrating that this method can be used for the rapid determination of D-aspartate N-methyltransferase activity in the ark shell clam Scapharca broughtonii.Abbreviations: NMDA: N-methyl-D-aspartate; NMLA: N-methyl-L-aspartate; NMDG: N-methyl-D-glutamate; NMLG: N-methyl-L-glutamate; NMA: N-methylaspartate; NMG: N-methylglutamate; HPLC: high-performance liquid chromatography; SAM: S-adenosyl-L-methionine; OPA: o-phthalaldehyde; LC-ESI-MS/MS: liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry; FDLA: Nα-(5-fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-L-leucinamide; FDAA: Nα-(5-fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl)-L-alaninamide; ESI: electrospray ionization; LC-ESI-MS: liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry; MS/MS: tandem mass spectrometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimihiko Shibata
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Fukushima College, Iwaki, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, Nagaoka, Niigata, Japan
| | - Saho Hagiya
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Fukushima College, Iwaki, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Rena Okawara
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry, National Institute of Technology (KOSEN), Fukushima College, Iwaki, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Katsumasa Abe
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, Nagaoka, Niigata, Japan
| | - Shouji Takahashi
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, Nagaoka, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yoshio Kera
- Department of Bioengineering, Nagaoka University of Technology, Nagaoka, Niigata, Japan
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Bastings JJ, van Eijk HM, Olde Damink SW, Rensen SS. d-amino Acids in Health and Disease: A Focus on Cancer. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11092205. [PMID: 31547425 PMCID: PMC6770864 DOI: 10.3390/nu11092205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
d-amino acids, the enantiomeric counterparts of l-amino acids, were long considered to be non-functional or not even present in living organisms. Nowadays, d-amino acids are acknowledged to play important roles in numerous physiological processes in the human body. The most commonly studied link between d-amino acids and human physiology concerns the contribution of d-serine and d-aspartate to neurotransmission. These d-amino acids and several others have also been implicated in regulating innate immunity and gut barrier function. Importantly, the presence of certain d-amino acids in the human body has been linked to several diseases including schizophrenia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and age-related disorders such as cataract and atherosclerosis. Furthermore, increasing evidence supports a role for d-amino acids in the development, pathophysiology, and treatment of cancer. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the various sources of d-amino acids, their metabolism, as well as their contribution to physiological processes and diseases in man, with a focus on cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacco J.A.J. Bastings
- Department of Surgery, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands (H.M.v.E.); (S.W.O.D.)
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hans M. van Eijk
- Department of Surgery, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands (H.M.v.E.); (S.W.O.D.)
| | - Steven W. Olde Damink
- Department of Surgery, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands (H.M.v.E.); (S.W.O.D.)
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Sander S. Rensen
- Department of Surgery, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands (H.M.v.E.); (S.W.O.D.)
- Correspondence:
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Di Fiore MM, Boni R, Santillo A, Falvo S, Gallo A, Esposito S, Baccari GC. D-Aspartic Acid in Vertebrate Reproduction: Animal Models and Experimental Designs ‡. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9090445. [PMID: 31484465 PMCID: PMC6770039 DOI: 10.3390/biom9090445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the animal models and experimental designs that have been used during the past twenty years to demonstrate the prominent role played by d-aspartate (d-Asp) in the reproduction of vertebrates, from amphibians to humans. We have tabulated the findings of in vivo and in vitro experiments that demonstrate the effects of d-Asp uptake on hormone production and gametogenesis in vertebrate animal models. The contribution of each animal model to the existing knowledge on the role of d-Asp in reproductive processes has been discussed. A critical analysis of experimental designs has also been carried out. Experiments performed on wild animal species suggest a role of d-Asp in the mechanisms that regulate the reproductive cycle. Several in vivo and in vitro studies carried out on mouse and rat models have facilitated an understanding of the molecular pathways activated by D-Asp in both steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, with particular emphasis on testosterone biosynthesis. Some attempts using d-Asp for the improvement of reproductive activity in animals of commercial interest have yielded mixed results. The increased transcriptome activity of enzymes and receptors involved in the reproductive activity in d-Asp-treated broiler roosters revealed further details on the mechanism of action of d-Asp on the reproductive processes. The close relationship between d-Asp and reproductive activity has emerged, particularly in relation to its effects exerted on semen quality, proposing therapeutic applications of this amino acid in andrology and in medically-assisted procreation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Raffaele Boni
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università della Basilicata, Via dell'Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gallo
- Dipartimento di Biologia ed Evoluzione degli Organismi Marini, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabrina Esposito
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
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Pallerla P, Bhumireddy SR, Lingampally SS, Ragi NC, Sripadi P. ESI-MS/MS analysis of protonated N-methyl amino acids and their immonium ions. JOURNAL OF MASS SPECTROMETRY : JMS 2019; 54:761-771. [PMID: 31412140 DOI: 10.1002/jms.4426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Methylation is one of the important posttranslational modifications of biological systems. At the metabolite level, the methylation process is expected to convert bioactive compounds such as amino acids, fatty acids, lipids, sugars, and other organic acids into their methylated forms. A few of the methylated amino acids are identified and have been proved as potential biomarkers for several metabolic disorders by using mass spectrometry-based metabolomics workstation. As it is possible to encounter all the N-methyl forms of the proteinogenic amino acids in plant/biological systems, it is essential to have analytical data of all N-methyl amino acids for their detection and identification. In earlier studies, we have reported the ESI-MS/MS data of all methylated proteinogenic amino acids, except that of mono-N-methyl amino acids. In this study, the N-methyl amino acids of all the amino acids (1-21; including one isomeric pair) were synthesized and characterized by ESI-MS/MS, LC/MS/MS, and HRMS. These data could be useful for detection and identification of N-methyl amino acids in biological systems for future metabolomics studies. The MS/MS spectra of [M + H]+ ions of most N-methyl amino acids showed respective immonium ions by the loss of (H2 O, CO). The other most common product ions detected were [MH-(NH2 CH3 ]+ , [MH-(RH)]+ (where R = side chain group) ions, and the selective structure indicative product ions due to side chain and N-methyl group. The isomeric/isobaric N-methyl amino acids could easily be differentiated by their distinct MS/MS spectra. Further, the MS/MS of immonium ions inferred side chain structure and methyl group on α-nitrogen of the N-methyl amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavankumar Pallerla
- Centre for Mass Spectrometry, Analytical Department, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Sudarshana Reddy Bhumireddy
- Centre for Mass Spectrometry, Analytical Department, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Sai Sachin Lingampally
- Centre for Mass Spectrometry, Analytical Department, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Nagarjuna Chary Ragi
- Centre for Mass Spectrometry, Analytical Department, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
| | - Prabhakar Sripadi
- Centre for Mass Spectrometry, Analytical Department, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, 500007, India
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Goudarzvand M, Panahi Y, Yazdani R, Miladi H, Tahmasebi S, Sherafat A, Afraei S, Abouhamzeh K, Jamee M, Al-Hussieni KJMR, Mohammadi H, Mohebbi A, Hossein-Khannazer N, Zaki-Dizaji M, Di Fiore MM, D'Aniello A, Azizi G. The Effects of D-aspartate on Neurosteroids, Neurosteroid Receptors, and Inflammatory Mediators in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2019; 19:316-325. [PMID: 30289086 DOI: 10.2174/1871530318666181005093459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a widely used model for multiple sclerosis. The present study has been designed to compare the efficiencies of oral and intraperitoneal (IP) administration of D-aspartate (D-Asp) on the onset and severity of EAE, the production of neurosteroids, and the expression of neurosteroid receptors and inflammatory mediators in the brain of EAE mice. METHODS In this study, EAE was induced in C57BL/6 mice treated with D-Asp orally (D-Asp-Oral) or by IP injection (D-Asp-IP). On the 20th day, brains (cerebrums) and cerebellums of mice were evaluated by histological analyses. The brains of mice were analyzed for: 1) Neurosteroid (Progesterone, Testosterone, 17β-estradiol) concentrations; 2) gene expressions of cytokines and neurosteroid receptors by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and 3) quantitative determination of D-Asp using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Further, some inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) were identified in the mouse serum using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. RESULTS Our findings demonstrated that after D-Asp was administered, it was taken up and accumulated within the brain. Further, IP injection of D-Asp had more beneficial effects on EAE severity than oral gavage. The concentration of the testosterone and 17β-estradiol in D-Asp-IP group was significantly higher than that of the control group. There were no significant differences in the gene expression of cytokine and neurosteroid receptors between control, D-Asp-IP, and D-Asp-Oral groups. However, IP treatment with D-Asp significantly reduced C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 and MMP-2 serum levels compared to control mice. CONCLUSION IP injection of D-Asp had more beneficial effects on EAE severity, neurosteroid induction and reduction of inflammatory mediators than oral gavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Goudarzvand
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Yaser Panahi
- North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Reza Yazdani
- Research Centre for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hosein Miladi
- Department of Pathology, Imam Khomeini Hospital affiliated to Social Security Organization, Arak, Iran
| | - Saeed Tahmasebi
- Department of Biology, Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arak, Iran
| | - Amin Sherafat
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, United States
| | - Sanaz Afraei
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kosar Abouhamzeh
- Research Centre for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Jamee
- Student Research Committee, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Alborz, Iran
| | | | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Mohebbi
- Growth and Development Research Centre, Paediatrics Centre of Excellence, Children's Medical Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nikoo Hossein-Khannazer
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Zaki-Dizaji
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Universita della Campania "L. Vanvitelli" Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Antimo D'Aniello
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Gholamreza Azizi
- Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
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Luo S, Ju Y, Zhou J, Gu Q, Xu J, Zhou H. Crystal structure of CntK, the cofactor-independent histidine racemase in staphylopine-mediated metal acquisition of Staphylococcus aureus. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 135:725-733. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.05.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Santillo A, Falvo S, Di Fiore MM, Di Giacomo Russo F, Chieffi P, Usiello A, Pinelli C, Baccari GC. AMPA receptor expression in mouse testis and spermatogonial GC-1 cells: A study on its regulation by excitatory amino acids. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:11044-11055. [PMID: 30762900 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Excitatory amino acids (EAAs) are found present in the nervous and reproductive systems of animals. Numerous studies have demonstrated a regulatory role for Glutamate (Glu), d-aspartate ( d-Asp) and N-methyl- d-aspartate (NMDA) in the control of spermatogenesis. EAAs are able to stimulate the Glutamate receptors, including the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR). Here in, we assess expression of the main AMPAR subunits, GluA1 and GluA2/3, in the mouse testis and in spermatogonial GC-1 cells. The results showed that both GluA1 and GluA2/3 were localized in mouse testis prevalently in spermatogonia. The subunit GluA2/3 was more highly expressed compared with GluA1 in both the testis and the GC-1 cells. Subsequently, GC-1 cells were incubated with medium containing l-Glu, d-Glu, d-Asp or NMDA to determine GluA1 and GluA2/3 expressions. At 30 minutes and 2 hours of incubation, EAA-treated GC-1 cells showed significantly higher expression levels of both GluA1 and GluA2/3. Furthermore, p-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p-Akt, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and Aurora B expressions were assayed in l-Glu-, d-Glu-, and NMDA-treated GC-1 cells. At 30 minutes and 2 hours of incubation, treated GC-1 cells showed significantly higher expression levels of p-ERK and p-Akt. A consequent increase of PCNA and Aurora B expressions was induced by l-Glu and NMDA, but not by d-Glu. Our study demonstrates a direct effect of the EAAs on spermatogonial activity. In addition, the increased protein expression levels of GluA1 and GluA2/3 in EAA-treated GC-1 cells suggest that EAAs could activate ERK and Akt pathways through the AMPAR. Finally, the increased PCNA and Aurora B levels may imply an enhanced proliferative activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santillo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria M Di Fiore
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Federica Di Giacomo Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Paolo Chieffi
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandro Usiello
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Claudia Pinelli
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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ISHII C, AKITA T, NAGANO M, MITA M, HAMASE K. Determination of Chiral Amino Acids in Various Fermented Products Using a Two-Dimensional HPLC-MS/MS System. CHROMATOGRAPHY 2019. [DOI: 10.15583/jpchrom.2019.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chiharu ISHII
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University
| | - Takeyuki AKITA
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University
| | | | | | - Kenji HAMASE
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University
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KOGA R, YOSHIDA H, NOHTA H, HAMASE K. Multi-Dimensional HPLC Analysis of Metabolic Related Chiral Amino Acids -Method Development and Biological/Clinical Applications-. CHROMATOGRAPHY 2019. [DOI: 10.15583/jpchrom.2019.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Reiko KOGA
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University
| | | | - Hitoshi NOHTA
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University
| | - Kenji HAMASE
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University
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Nicoletti CG, Monteleone F, Marfia GA, Usiello A, Buttari F, Centonze D, Mori F. Oral D-Aspartate enhances synaptic plasticity reserve in progressive multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2019; 26:304-311. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458519828294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Synaptic plasticity reserve correlates with clinical recovery after a relapse in relapsing–remitting forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is significantly compromised in patients with progressive forms of MS. These findings suggest that progression of disability in MS is linked to reduced synaptic plasticity reserve. D-Aspartate, an endogenous aminoacid approved for the use in humans as a dietary supplement, enhances synaptic plasticity in mice. Objective: To test whether D-Aspartate oral intake increases synaptic plasticity reserve in progressive MS patients. Methods: A total of 31 patients affected by a progressive form of MS received either single oral daily doses of D-Aspartate 2660 mg or placebo for 4 weeks. Synaptic plasticity reserve and trans-synaptic cortical excitability were measured through transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocols before and after D-Aspartate. Results: Both TMS-induced long-term potentiation (LTP), intracortical facilitation (ICF) and short-interval ICF increased after 2 and 4 weeks of D-Aspartate but not after placebo, suggesting an enhancement of synaptic plasticity reserve and increased trans-synaptic glutamatergic transmission. Conclusion: Daily oral D-Aspartate 2660 mg for 4 weeks enhances synaptic plasticity reserve in patients with progressive MS, opening the path to further studies assessing its clinical effects on disability progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina G Nicoletti
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Monteleone
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Girolama A Marfia
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Usiello
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, The Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy/ Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, CEINGE —Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Diego Centonze
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy/ Unit of Neurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Francesco Mori
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinical & Research Center, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy/ Unit of Neurology, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
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Ishii C, Akita T, Mita M, Ide T, Hamase K. Development of an online two-dimensional high-performance liquid chromatographic system in combination with tandem mass spectrometric detection for enantiomeric analysis of free amino acids in human physiological fluid. J Chromatogr A 2018; 1570:91-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2018.07.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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43
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Li Y, Han H, Yin J, Li T, Yin Y. Role of D-aspartate on biosynthesis, racemization, and potential functions: A mini-review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 4:311-315. [PMID: 30175260 PMCID: PMC6116324 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
D-aspartate, a natural and endogenous amino acid, widely exists in animal tissues and can be synthesized through aspartate racemase and transformed by D-aspartate oxidase (DDO). D-aspartate mainly serves as a neurotransmitter and has been demonstrated to exhibit various physiological functions, including nutritional potential, regulation on reproduction and hormone biology, and neuron protection. This article mainly reviews the synthesis, racemization, and physiological functions of D-aspartate with emphasis on the potential in diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Li
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry Production, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South-Central, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Hui Han
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry Production, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South-Central, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Jie Yin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry Production, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South-Central, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Tiejun Li
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry Production, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South-Central, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
- Hunan Co-Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha 410128, China
- Corresponding authors.
| | - Yulong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, National Engineering Laboratory for Pollution Control and Waste Utilization in Livestock and Poultry Production, Hunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry Production, Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South-Central, Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
- Hunan Co-Innovation Center of Animal Production Safety, Changsha 410128, China
- Corresponding authors.
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Zemková H, Stojilkovic SS. Neurotransmitter receptors as signaling platforms in anterior pituitary cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 463:49-64. [PMID: 28684290 PMCID: PMC5752632 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The functions of anterior pituitary cells are controlled by two major groups of hypothalamic and intrapituitary ligands: one exclusively acts on G protein-coupled receptors and the other activates both G protein-coupled receptors and ligand-gated receptor channels. The second group of ligands operates as neurotransmitters in neuronal cells and their receptors are termed as neurotransmitter receptors. Most information about pituitary neurotransmitter receptors was obtained from secretory studies, RT-PCR analyses of mRNA expression and immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses, all of which were performed using a mixed population of pituitary cells. However, recent electrophysiological and imaging experiments have characterized γ-aminobutyric acid-, acetylcholine-, and ATP-activated receptors and channels in single pituitary cell types, expanding this picture and revealing surprising differences in their expression between subtypes of secretory cells and between native and immortalized pituitary cells. The main focus of this review is on the electrophysiological and pharmacological properties of these receptors and their roles in calcium signaling and calcium-controlled hormone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Zemková
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Institute of Physiology, ASCR, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Stanko S Stojilkovic
- Sections on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Guo X, Wang X, Di R, Liu Q, Hu W, He X, Yu J, Zhang X, Zhang J, Broniowska K, Chen W, Wu C, Chu M. Metabolic Effects of FecB Gene on Follicular Fluid and Ovarian Vein Serum in Sheep (Ovis aries). Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19020539. [PMID: 29439449 PMCID: PMC5855761 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The FecB gene has been discovered as an important gene in sheep for its high relationship with the ovulation rate, but its regulatory mechanism remains unknown. In the present study, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques were adopted to detect the metabolic effects of FecB gene in follicular fluid (FF) and ovarian vein serum (OVS) in Small Tail Han (STH) sheep. ANOVA and random forest statistical methods were employed for the identification of important metabolic pathways and biomarkers. Changes in amino acid metabolism, redox environment, and energy metabolism were observed in FF from the three FecB genotype STH ewes. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) showed that metabolic effects of FecB gene are more pronounced in FF than in OVS. Therefore, the difference of the metabolic profile in FF is also affected by the FecB genotypes. In Spearman correlation analysis, key metabolites (e.g., glucose 6-phosphate, glucose 1-phosphate, aspartate, asparagine, glutathione oxidized (GSSG), cysteine-glutathione disulfide, γ-glutamylglutamine, and 2-hydrosybutyrate) in ovine FF samples showed a significant correlation with the ovulation rate. Our findings will help to explain the metabolic mechanism of high prolificacy ewes and benefit fertility identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Ran Di
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Qiuyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Wenping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Jiarui Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Xiaosheng Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China.
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Animal Sciences, Tianjin 300381, China.
| | | | - Wei Chen
- Shanghai Applied Protein Technology Co., Ltd., Shanghai 200233, China.
| | - Changxin Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Mingxing Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
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Ansari M, Zhandi M, Kohram H, Zaghari M, Sadeghi M, Gholami M, Deldar H, Di Fiore MM, Benson AP. D-Aspartate amends reproductive performance of aged roosters by changing gene expression and testicular histology. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:1038-1048. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Male broiler breeders (n = 32) of 55 weeks of age were administered four different doses of capsulated d-aspartate (DA; 0, 100, 200 or 300 mg kg−1 day−1, p.o. (DA0, DA100, DA200 and DA300 respectively)) for 12 successive weeks to assess reproductive performance, blood testosterone, testicular histology and transcript levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), androgen receptor (AR), LH receptor (LHR), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3BHSD), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 1 (GRIN1) and glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 2B (GRIN2B). Blood samples and ejaculates were collected, and bodyweight was recorded weekly for 10 weeks. AI was performed weekly for the last 2 weeks to determine the number of sperm penetration holes in the perivitelline layer, fertility and hatchability. Testes histology and transcript levels were evaluated in the 12th week. Bodyweight, numbers of Leydig cells and blood vessels, testis index and levels of sperm abnormalities were not affected (P > 0.05) by the treatment. However, sperm total and forward motility, plasma membrane integrity and functionality of sperm, ejaculate volume, testosterone concentration and fertility were higher (P < 0.05) in both the DA200 and DA300 groups compared with the other groups. In the DA100 and DA200 groups, sperm concentration, number of spermatogonia, thickness of the seminiferous epithelium and the diameter of tubules were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the other DA-treated groups. The number of penetration holes, hatchability and malondialdehyde concentration were higher in the DA200, all DA-treated and DA300 groups respectively compared with the control and other treatment groups. Except for P450scc, AR, LHR and PCNA transcript levels in the DA300 groups, the relative expression of the genes evaluated improved significantly in the other DA-treated groups. Based on these experimental findings, it is concluded that DA improves reproductive performance of aged roosters.
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Di Fiore MM, Santillo A, Falvo S, Chieffi Baccari G, Venditti M, Di Giacomo Russo F, Lispi M, D'Aniello A. Sex hormone levels in the brain of d-aspartate-treated rats. C R Biol 2017; 341:9-15. [PMID: 29203165 DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
d-Aspartate (d-Asp) is an endogenous amino acid present in the central nervous system and endocrine glands of various animal taxa. d-Asp is implicated in neurotransmission, physiology of learning, and memory processes. In gonads, it plays a crucial role in sex hormone synthesis. We have investigated the effects of chronic (30 days d-Asp drinking solution) and acute (i.p. injection of 2μmol/g bw d-Asp) treatments on sex steroid synthesis in rat brain. Furthermore, to verify the direct effect of d-Asp on neurosteroidogenic enzyme activities, brain homogenates were incubated with different substrates (cholesterol, progesterone, or testosterone) with or without the addition of d-Asp. Enzyme activities were measured by evaluating the in vitro conversion rate of (i) cholesterol to progesterone, testosterone, and 17β-estradiol, (ii) progesterone to testosterone and 17β-estradiol, (iii) testosterone to 17β-estradiol. We found that d-Asp oral administration produced an increase of approximately 40% in progesterone, 110% in testosterone, and 35% in 17β-estradiol. Similarly, the results of the acute experiment showed that at 30min after d-Asp treatment, the progesterone, testosterone, and 17β-estradiol levels increased by 29-35%, and at 8h they further increased by a 100% increment. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the addition of d-Asp to brain homogenate+substrate induces a significant increase in progesterone, testosterone and 17β-estradiol suggesting that the amino acid upregulates the local activity of steroidogenic enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Di Giacomo Russo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Monica Lispi
- Medical Affair Department Fertility TA, Merck-Serono SAS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antimo D'Aniello
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ambientali, biologiche e farmaceutiche, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; Department of Neurobiology and Comparative Physiology, Zoological Station "Anthon Dohrn", Naples, Italy.
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Melville GW, Siegler JC, Marshall PWM. The effects of d-aspartic acid supplementation in resistance-trained men over a three month training period: A randomised controlled trial. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182630. [PMID: 28841667 PMCID: PMC5571970 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Research on d-aspartic acid (DAA) has demonstrated increases in total testosterone levels in untrained men, however research in resistance-trained men demonstrated no changes, and reductions in testosterone levels. The long-term consequences of DAA in a resistance trained population are currently unknown. Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of DAA to alter basal testosterone levels over 3 months of resistance training in resistance-trained men. Design Randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled trial in healthy resistance-trained men, aged 18–36, had been performing regular resistance training exercise for at least 3 d.w-1 for the previous 2 years. Randomised participants were 22 men (d-aspartic acid n = 11; placebo n = 11) (age, 23.8±4.9 y, training age, 3.2±1.5 y). Intervention D-aspartic acid (6 g.d-1, DAA) versus equal-weight, visually-matched placebo (PLA). All participants performed 12 weeks of supervised, periodised resistance training (4 d.w-1), with a program focusing on all muscle groups. Measures Basal hormones, total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), estradiol (E2), sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin (ALB); isometric strength; calf muscle cross-sectional area (CSA); calf muscle thickness; quadriceps muscle CSA; quadriceps muscle thickness; evoked V-wave and H-reflexes, were assessed at weeks zero (T1), after six weeks (T2) and after 12 weeks (T3). Results No change in basal TT or FT were observed after the intervention. DAA supplementation (n = 10) led to a 16%, 95% CI [-27%, -5%] reduction in E2 from T1-T3 (p<0.01). The placebo group (n = 9) demonstrated improvements in spinal responsiveness (gastrocnemius) at the level of the alpha motoneuron. Both groups exhibited increases in isometric strength of the plantar flexors by 17%, 95% CI [7%, 28%] (p<0.05) as well as similar increases in hypertrophy in the quadriceps and calf muscles. Conclusions The results of this paper indicate that DAA supplementation is ineffective at changing testosterone levels, or positively affecting training outcomes. Reductions in estradiol and the blunting of peripheral excitability appear unrelated to improvements from resistance training. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12617000041358
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey W. Melville
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Jason C. Siegler
- School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
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Ito T, Yu Z, Yoshino I, Hirozawa Y, Yamamoto K, Shinoda K, Watanabe A, Hemmi H, Asada Y, Yoshimura T. Occurrence of the (2R,3S)-Isomer of 2-Amino-3,4-dihydroxybutanoic Acid in the Mushroom Hypsizygus marmoreus. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2017; 65:6131-6139. [PMID: 28686838 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.7b01893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Here, we report the occurrence of the (2R,3S)-isomer of 2-amino-3,4-dihydroxybutanoic acid (d-ADHB) in the fruiting body of an edible mushroom, Hypsizygus marmoreus. This is an unusual example of the accumulation of a d-amino acid whose enantiomer is not a proteinogenic amino acid. We show that d-ADHB occurs specifically in the mushroom H. marmoreus. Other edible mushrooms examined, including Pholiota microspora, Pleurotus eryngii, Mycena chlorophos, Sparassis crispa, Grifola frondosa, Pleurotus ostreatus, and Flammulina velutipes, do not contain detectable levels of d-ADHB. The concentration of d-ADHB in the fruiting body of H. marmoreus is relatively high (approximately 1.3 mg/g of fruiting body) and is comparable to the concentration of some of the most abundant free proteinogenic amino acids. Quantitative analysis of d-ADHB during fruiting body development demonstrated that the amino acid is synthesized during the fruiting body formation period. The absence of the putative precursors of d-ADHB, the (2S,3S)-isomer of ADHB and 2-oxo-tetronate, and the enzyme activities of d-ADHB racemase (2-epimerase) and transaminase suggested that d-ADHB is synthesized by a unique mechanism in this organism. Our data also suggested that the lack of or low expression of a d-ADHB degradation enzyme is a key determinant of d-ADHB accumulation in H. marmoreus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomokazu Ito
- Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Furou-chou, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Zhuoer Yu
- Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Furou-chou, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Issei Yoshino
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagawa University , Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0795, Japan
| | - Yurina Hirozawa
- Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Furou-chou, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Kana Yamamoto
- Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Furou-chou, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | | | - Akira Watanabe
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagawa University , Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0795, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hemmi
- Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Furou-chou, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Asada
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Kagawa University , Miki-cho, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0795, Japan
| | - Tohru Yoshimura
- Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University , Furou-chou, Chikusa, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
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Li Z, Xing Y, Guo X, Cui Y. Development of an UPLC–MS/MS method for simultaneous quantitation of 11 d -amino acids in different regions of rat brain: Application to a study on the associations of d -amino acid concentration changes and Alzheimer’s disease. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2017; 1058:40-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2017.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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