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Lanzillotta C, Tramutola A, Lanzillotta S, Greco V, Pagnotta S, Sanchini C, Di Angelantonio S, Forte E, Rinaldo S, Paone A, Cutruzzolà F, Cimini FA, Barchetta I, Cavallo MG, Urbani A, Butterfield DA, Di Domenico F, Paul BD, Perluigi M, Duarte JMN, Barone E. Biliverdin Reductase-A integrates insulin signaling with mitochondrial metabolism through phosphorylation of GSK3β. Redox Biol 2024; 73:103221. [PMID: 38843768 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain insulin resistance links the failure of energy metabolism with cognitive decline in both type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), although the molecular changes preceding overt brain insulin resistance remain unexplored. Abnormal biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A) levels were observed in both T2D and AD and were associated with insulin resistance. Here, we demonstrate that reduced BVR-A levels alter insulin signaling and mitochondrial bioenergetics in the brain. Loss of BVR-A leads to IRS1 hyper-activation but dysregulates Akt-GSK3β complex in response to insulin, hindering the accumulation of pGSK3βS9 into the mitochondria. This event impairs oxidative phosphorylation and fosters the activation of the mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response (UPRmt). Remarkably, we unveil that BVR-A is required to shuttle pGSK3βS9 into the mitochondria. Our data sheds light on the intricate interplay between insulin signaling and mitochondrial metabolism in the brain unraveling potential targets for mitigating the development of brain insulin resistance and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Greco
- Department of Basic Biotechnology, Perioperative and Intensive Clinics, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, L.go F.Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, L.go A.Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Pagnotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Sanchini
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 00161, Rome, Italy; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Forte
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Rinaldo
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio Paone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Cutruzzolà
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Barchetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Urbani
- Department of Basic Biotechnology, Perioperative and Intensive Clinics, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, L.go F.Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, L.go A.Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - D Allan Butterfield
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Bindu D Paul
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Joao M N Duarte
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Sweden; Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
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Lizeth ANM, Vanessa BV, María Del Rocio TB, Margarita FC, Damián JM, Alfredo CO, Edgar CE, Placido RF. Hepatoprotective Effect Assessment of C-Phycocyanin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Rat Model by Using Photoacoustic Spectroscopy. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 78:296-309. [PMID: 38224996 DOI: 10.1177/00037028231222508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary neoplasia of the liver with elevated mortality. Experimental treatment with antioxidants has a beneficial effect on the experimental models of HCC. Arthrospira maxima (spirulina) and its phycocyanin have antitumoral action on different tumoral cells. However, it is unknown whether phycocyanin is the responsible molecule for the antitumoral effect on HCC. Photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) stands out among other spectroscopy techniques for its versatility of samples analyzed. This technique makes it possible to obtain the optical absorption spectrum of solid or liquid, dark or transparent samples. Previous studies report that assessing liver damage in rats produced by the modified resistant hepatocyte model (MRHM) is possible by analyzing their blood optical absorption spectrum. This study aimed to investigate, by PAS, the effect of phycocyanin obtained from spirulina on hepatic dysfunction. The optical absorption spectra analysis of the rat blood indicates the damage level induced by the MRHM group, being in concordance with the carried out biological conventional studies results, indicating an increase in the activity of hepatic enzymes, oxidative stress, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, cdk2, and AKT2 expression results, with a reduction in p53 expression. Also, PAS results suggest that phycocyanin decreases induced damage, due to the prevention of the Bax, AKT2, and p53 altered expression and the tumor progression in a HCC rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvarado-Noguez Margarita Lizeth
- Departamento de Física, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Blas-Valdivia Vanessa
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Thompson-Bonilla María Del Rocio
- Laboratorio de Medicina Genómica, Hospital Regional 1ro de Octubre, ISSSTE, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Franco-Colín Margarita
- Laboratorio de Metabolismo I. Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Colonia Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero., Ciudad de México, México
| | - Jacinto-Méndez Damián
- Departamento de Física, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Cruz-Orea Alfredo
- Departamento de Física, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Cano-Europa Edgar
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Rojas-Franco Placido
- Laboratorio de Metabolismo I. Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Colonia Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero., Ciudad de México, México
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Paul BD, Pieper AA. Neuroprotective Roles of the Biliverdin Reductase-A/Bilirubin Axis in the Brain. Biomolecules 2024; 14:155. [PMID: 38397392 PMCID: PMC10887292 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020155] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Biliverdin reductase-A (BVRA) is a multi-functional enzyme with a multitude of important roles in physiologic redox homeostasis. Classically, BVRA is well known for converting the heme metabolite biliverdin to bilirubin, which is a potent antioxidant in both the periphery and the brain. However, BVRA additionally participates in many neuroprotective signaling cascades in the brain that preserve cognition. Here, we review the neuroprotective roles of BVRA and bilirubin in the brain, which together constitute a BVRA/bilirubin axis that influences healthy aging and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu D. Paul
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew A. Pieper
- Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Brain Health Medicines Center, Harrington Discovery Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Geriatric Psychiatry, GRECC, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Institute for Transformative Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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Cimini FA, Tramutola A, Barchetta I, Ceccarelli V, Gangitano E, Lanzillotta S, Lanzillotta C, Cavallo MG, Barone E. Dynamic Changes of BVRA Protein Levels Occur in Response to Insulin: A Pilot Study in Humans. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087282. [PMID: 37108445 PMCID: PMC10138944 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliverdin reductase-A (BVRA) is involved in the regulation of insulin signaling and the maintenance of glucose homeostasis. Previous research showed that BVRA alterations are associated with the aberrant activation of insulin signaling in dysmetabolic conditions. However, whether BVRA protein levels change dynamically within the cells in response to insulin and/or glucose remains an open question. To this aim, we evaluated changes of intracellular BVRA levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) collected during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in a group of subjects with different levels of insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, we looked for significant correlations with clinical measures. Our data show that BVRA levels change dynamically during the OGTT in response to insulin, and greater BVRA variations occur in those subjects with lower insulin sensitivity. Changes of BVRA significantly correlate with indexes of increased insulin resistance and insulin secretion (HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, and insulinogenic index). At the multivariate regression analysis, the insulinogenic index independently predicted increased BVRA area under curve (AUC) during the OGTT. This pilot study showed, for the first time, that intracellular BVRA protein levels change in response to insulin during OGTT and are greater in subjects with lower insulin sensitivity, supporting the role of BVR-A in the dynamic regulation of the insulin signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Agata Cimini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Barchetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Ceccarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Gangitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Butterfield DA, Boyd-Kimball D, Reed TT. Cellular Stress Response (Hormesis) in Response to Bioactive Nutraceuticals with Relevance to Alzheimer Disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2023; 38:643-669. [PMID: 36656673 PMCID: PMC10025851 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2022.0214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia associated with aging. As the large Baby Boomer population ages, risk of developing AD increases significantly, and this portion of the population will increase significantly over the next several decades. Recent Advances: Research suggests that a delay in the age of onset by 5 years can dramatically decrease both the incidence and cost of AD. In this review, the role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in AD is examined in the context of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A) and the beneficial potential of selected bioactive nutraceuticals. Critical Issues: Nrf2, a transcription factor that binds to enhancer sequences in antioxidant response elements (ARE) of DNA, is significantly decreased in AD brain. Downstream targets of Nrf2 include, among other proteins, HO-1. BVR-A is activated when biliverdin is produced. Both HO-1 and BVR-A also are oxidatively or nitrosatively modified in AD brain and in its earlier stage, amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI), contributing to the oxidative stress, altered insulin signaling, and cellular damage observed in the pathogenesis and progression of AD. Bioactive nutraceuticals exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties and are potential topics of future clinical research. Specifically, ferulic acid ethyl ester, sulforaphane, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, and resveratrol target Nrf2 and have shown potential to delay the progression of AD in animal models and in some studies involving MCI patients. Future Directions: Understanding the regulation of Nrf2 and its downstream targets can potentially elucidate therapeutic options for delaying the progression of AD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 643-669.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Allan Butterfield
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Debra Boyd-Kimball
- Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Physics, University of Mount Union, Alliance, Ohio, USA
| | - Tanea T. Reed
- Department of Chemistry, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky, USA
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Development of new 1, 3-dihydroxyacridone derivatives as Akt pathway inhibitors in skeletal muscle cells. Bioorg Chem 2023; 130:106222. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Cimini FA, Perluigi M, Barchetta I, Cavallo MG, Barone E. Role of Biliverdin Reductase A in the Regulation of Insulin Signaling in Metabolic and Neurodegenerative Diseases: An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105574. [PMID: 35628384 PMCID: PMC9141761 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin signaling is a conserved pathway that orchestrates glucose and lipid metabolism, energy balance, and inflammation, and its dysregulation compromises the homeostasis of multiple systems. Insulin resistance is a shared hallmark of several metabolic diseases, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes, and has been associated with cognitive decline during aging and dementia. Numerous mechanisms promoting the development of peripheral and central insulin resistance have been described, although most of them were not completely clarified. In the last decades, several studies have highlighted that biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A), over its canonical role in the degradation of heme, acts as a regulator of insulin signaling. Evidence from human and animal studies show that BVR-A alterations are associated with the aberrant activation of insulin signaling, metabolic syndrome, liver steatosis, and visceral adipose tissue inflammation in obese and diabetic individuals. In addition, recent findings demonstrated that reduced BVR-A levels or impaired BVR-A activation contribute to the development of brain insulin resistance and metabolic alterations in Alzheimer’s disease. In this narrative review, we will provide an overview on the literature by focusing on the role of BVR-A in the regulation of insulin signaling and how BVR-A alterations impact on cell dysfunctions in both metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Agata Cimini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.A.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (E.B.)
| | - Ilaria Barchetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.A.C.); (I.B.)
| | - Maria Gisella Cavallo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.A.C.); (I.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (E.B.)
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Barone E, Di Domenico F, Perluigi M, Butterfield DA. The interplay among oxidative stress, brain insulin resistance and AMPK dysfunction contribute to neurodegeneration in type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer disease. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 176:16-33. [PMID: 34530075 PMCID: PMC8595768 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly followed by vascular dementia. In addition to clinically diagnosed dementia, cognitive dysfunction has been reported in diabetic patients. Recent studies are now beginning to recognize type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, as a risk factor for AD and other cognitive disorders. While studies on insulin action have remained traditionally in the domain of peripheral tissues, the detrimental effects of insulin resistance in the central nervous system on cognitive dysfunction are increasingly being reported in recent clinical and preclinical studies. Brain functions require continuous supply of glucose and oxygen and a tight regulation of metabolic processes. Loss of this metabolic regulation has been proposed to be a contributor to memory dysfunction associated with neurodegeneration. Within the above scenario, this review will focus on the interplay among oxidative stress (OS), insulin resistance and AMPK dysfunctions in the brain by highlighting how these neurotoxic events contribute to neurodegeneration. We provide an overview on the detrimental effects of OS on proteins regulating insulin signaling and how these alterations impact cell metabolic dysfunctions through AMPK dysregulation. Such processes, we assert, are critically involved in the molecular pathways that underlie AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - D Allan Butterfield
- Department of Chemistry and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506-0055, USA.
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Cimini FA, Barchetta I, Zuliani I, Pagnotta S, Bertoccini L, Dule S, Zampieri M, Reale A, Baroni MG, Cavallo MG, Barone E. Biliverdin reductase-A protein levels are reduced in type 2 diabetes and are associated with poor glycometabolic control. Life Sci 2021; 284:119913. [PMID: 34453944 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIM Biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A) other than its canonical role in the degradation pathway of heme as partner of heme oxygenase-1 (HO1), has recently drawn attention as a protein with pleiotropic functions involved in insulin-glucose homeostasis. However, whether BVR-A expression is altered in type 2 diabetes (T2D) has never been evaluated. MAIN METHODS BVR-A protein levels were evaluated in T2D (n = 44) and non-T2D (n = 29) subjects, who underwent complete clinical workup and routine biochemistry. In parallel, levels HO1, whose expression is regulated by BVR-A as well as levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), which is a known repressor for BVR-A with pro-inflammatory properties, were also assessed. KEY FINDINGS BVR-A levels were significantly lower in T2D subjects than in non-T2D subjects. Reduced BVR-A levels were associated with greater body mass, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglycerides, transaminases and TNFα, and with lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Lower BVR-A levels are associated with reduced HO1 protein levels and the multivariate analysis showed that BVR-A represented the main determinant of HO1 levels in T2D after adjustment. In addition, reduced BVR-A levels were able to predict the presence of T2D with AUROC = 0.69. for potential confounders. SIGNIFICANCE Our results demonstrate for the first time that BVR-A protein levels are reduced in T2D individuals, and that this alteration strictly correlates with poor glycometabolic control and a pro-inflammatory state. Hence, these observations reinforce the hypothesis that reduced BVR-A protein levels may represent a key event in the dysregulation of intracellular pathways finally leading to metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ilaria Barchetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Zuliani
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Sara Pagnotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Laura Bertoccini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Dule
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Zampieri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Reale
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Giorgio Baroni
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences (MeSVA), University of L'Aquila, Italy; Neuroendocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Is, Italy
| | | | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy.
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Gordon MT, Ziemba BP, Falke JJ. Single-molecule studies reveal regulatory interactions between master kinases PDK1, AKT1, and PKC. Biophys J 2021; 120:5657-5673. [PMID: 34673053 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Leukocyte migration is controlled by a leading-edge chemosensory pathway that generates the regulatory lipid phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3), a growth signal, thereby driving leading-edge expansion up attractant gradients toward sites of infection, inflammation, or tissue damage. PIP3 also serves as an important growth signal in growing cells and oncogenesis. The kinases PDK1, AKT1 or PKB, and PKCα are key components of a plasma-membrane-based PIP3 and Ca2+ signaling circuit that regulates these processes. PDK1 and AKT1 are recruited to the membrane by PIP3, whereas PKCα is recruited to the membrane by Ca2+. All three of these master kinases phosphoregulate an array of protein targets. For example, PDK1 activates AKT1, PKCα, and other AGC kinases by phosphorylation at key sites. PDK1 is believed to form PDK1-AKT1 and PDK1-PKCα heterodimers stabilized by a PDK1-interacting fragment (PIF) interaction between the PDK1 PIF pocket and the PIF motif of the AGC binding partner. Here, we present the first, to our knowledge, single-molecule studies of full-length PDK1 and AKT1 on target membrane surfaces, as well as their interaction with full-length PKCα. These studies directly detect membrane-bound PDK1-AKT1 and PDK1-PKCα heterodimers stabilized by PIF interactions formed at physiological ligand concentrations. PKCα exhibits eightfold higher PDK1 affinity than AKT1 and can competitively displace AKT1 from PDK1-AKT1 heterodimers. Ensemble activity measurements under matched conditions reveal that PDK1 activates AKT1 via a cis mechanism by phosphorylating an AKT1 molecule in the same PDK1-AKT1 heterodimer, whereas PKCα acts as a competitive inhibitor of this phosphoactivation reaction by displacing AKT1 from PDK1. Overall, the findings provide insights into the binding and regulatory interactions of the three master kinases on their target membrane and suggest that a recently described tumor suppressor activity of PKC isoforms may arise from its ability to downregulate PDK1-AKT1 phosphoactivation in the PIP3-PDK1-AKT1-mTOR pathway linked to cell growth and oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moshe T Gordon
- Molecular Biophysics Program and Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
| | - Brian P Ziemba
- Molecular Biophysics Program and Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
| | - Joseph J Falke
- Molecular Biophysics Program and Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado.
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Abstract
Significance: As the central metabolic organ, the liver is exposed to a variety of potentially cytotoxic, proinflammatory, profibrotic, and carcinogenic stimuli. To protect the organism from these deleterious effects, the liver has evolved a number of defense systems, which include antioxidant substrates and enzymes, anti-inflammatory tools, enzymatic biotransformation systems, and metabolic pathways. Recent Advances: One of the pivotal systems that evolved during phylogenesis was the heme catabolic pathway. Comprising the important enzymes heme oxygenase and biliverdin reductase, this complex pathway has a number of key functions including enzymatic activities, but also cell signaling, and DNA transcription. It further generates two important bile pigments, biliverdin and bilirubin, as well as the gaseous molecule carbon monoxide. These heme degradation products have potent antioxidant, immunosuppressive, and cytoprotective effects. Recent data suggest that the pathway participates in the regulation of metabolic and hormonal processes implicated in the pathogenesis of hepatic and other diseases. Critical Issues: This review discusses the impact of the heme catabolic pathway on major liver diseases, with particular focus on the involvement of cellular targeting and signaling in the pathogenesis of these conditions. Future Directions: To utilize the biological consequences of the heme catabolic pathway, several unique therapeutic strategies have been developed. Research indicates that pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and lifestyle modifications positively affect the pathway, delivering potentially long-term clinical benefits. However, further well-designed studies are needed to confirm the clinical benefits of these approaches. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 734-752.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libor Vítek
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, and Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, General University Hospital and First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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12
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Lanzillotta C, Tramutola A, Di Giacomo G, Marini F, Butterfield DA, Di Domenico F, Perluigi M, Barone E. Insulin resistance, oxidative stress and mitochondrial defects in Ts65dn mice brain: A harmful synergistic path in down syndrome. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 165:152-170. [PMID: 33516914 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of brain insulin signaling with reduced downstream neuronal survival and plasticity mechanisms are fundamental abnormalities observed in Alzheimer disease (AD). This phenomenon, known as brain insulin resistance, is associated with poor cognitive performance and is driven by the inhibition of IRS1. Since Down syndrome (DS) and AD neuropathology share many common features, we investigated metabolic aspects of neurodegeneration in DS and whether they contribute to early onset AD in DS. We evaluated levels and activation of proteins belonging to the insulin signaling pathway (IR, IRS1, BVR-A, MAPK, PTEN, Akt, GSK3β, PKCζ, AS160, GLUT4) in the frontal cortex of Ts65dn (DS model) (n = 5-6/group) and euploid mice (n = 6/group) at different ages (1, 3, 9 and 18 months). Furthermore, we analyzed whether changes of brain insulin signaling were associated with alterations of: (i) proteins regulating brain energy metabolism (mitochondrial complexes, hexokinase-II, Sirt1); (ii) oxidative stress (OS) markers (iii) APP cleavage; and (iv) proteins mediating synaptic plasticity mechanisms (PSD95, syntaxin-1 and BDNF). Ts65dn mice showed an overall impairment of the above-mentioned pathways, mainly characterized by defects of proteins activation state. Such alterations start early in life (at 1 month, during brain maturation). In particular, accumulation of inhibited IRS1, together with the uncoupling among the proteins downstream from IRS1 (brain insulin resistance), characterize Ts65dn mice. Furthermore, reduced levels of mitochondrial complexes and Sirt1, as well as increased indices of OS also were observed. These alterations precede the accumulation of APP-C99 in Ts65dn mice. Tellingly, oxidative stress levels were negatively associated with IR, IRS1 and AS160 activation as well as mitochondrial complexes levels in Ts65dn mice, suggesting a role for oxidative stress in the observed alterations. We propose that a close link exists among brain insulin resistance, mitochondrial defects and OS that contributes to brain dysfunctions observed in DS, likely favoring the development of AD in DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Graziella Di Giacomo
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Federico Marini
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - D Allan Butterfield
- Department of Chemistry and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506-0055, USA
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, 00185, Roma, Italy.
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13
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Xing J, Yang J, Gu Y, Yi J. Research update on the anticancer effects of buparlisib. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:266. [PMID: 33717263 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Buparlisib is a highly efficient and selective PI3K inhibitor and a member of the 2,6-dimorpholinopyrimidine-derived family of compounds. It selectively inhibits four isomers of PI3K, PI3Kα, PI3Kβ, PI3Kγ and PI3Kδ, by competitively binding the lipid kinase domain on adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP), and serves an important role in inhibiting proliferation, promoting apoptosis and blocking angiogenesis, predominantly by antagonizing the PI3K/AKT pathway. Buparlisib has been confirmed to have a clinical effect in patients with solid tumors and hematological malignancies. A global, phase II clinical trial with buparlisib and paclitaxel in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma has now been completed, with a manageable safety profile. Buparlisib currently has fast-track status with the United States Food and Drug Administration. The present review examined the biochemical structure, pharmacokinetic characteristics, preclinical data and ongoing clinical studies of buparlisib. The various mechanisms of influence of buparlisib in tumors, particularly in preclinical research, were summarized, providing a theoretical basis and direction for basic research on and clinical treatment with buparlisib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinshan Xing
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Yingjiang Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Jingyan Yi
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
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Ceccarelli V, Barchetta I, Cimini FA, Bertoccini L, Chiappetta C, Capoccia D, Carletti R, Di Cristofano C, Silecchia G, Fontana M, Leonetti F, Lenzi A, Baroni MG, Barone E, Cavallo MG. Reduced Biliverdin Reductase-A Expression in Visceral Adipose Tissue is Associated with Adipocyte Dysfunction and NAFLD in Human Obesity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239091. [PMID: 33260451 PMCID: PMC7730815 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliverdin reductase A (BVR-A) is an enzyme involved in the regulation of insulin signalling. Knockout (KO) mice for hepatic BVR-A, on a high-fat diet, develop more severe glucose impairment and hepato-steatosis than the wild type, whereas loss of adipocyte BVR-A is associated with increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT) inflammation and adipocyte size. However, BVR-A expression in human VAT has not been investigated. We evaluated BVR-A mRNA expression levels by real-time PCR in the intra-operative omental biopsy of 38 obese subjects and investigated the association with metabolic impairment, VAT dysfunction, and biopsy-proven non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Individuals with lower VAT BVR-A mRNA levels had significantly greater VAT IL-8 and Caspase 3 expression than those with higher BVR-A. Lower VAT BVR-A mRNA levels were associated with an increased adipocytes’ size. An association between lower VAT BVR-A expression and higher plasma gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase was also observed. Reduced VAT BVR-A was associated with NAFLD with an odds ratio of 1.38 (95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.9; χ2 test) and with AUROC = 0.89 (p = 0.002, 95% CI = 0.76–1.0). In conclusion, reduced BVR-A expression in omental adipose tissue is associated with VAT dysfunction and NAFLD, suggesting a possible involvement of BVR-A in the regulation of VAT homeostasis in presence of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Ceccarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.C.); (I.B.); (F.A.C.); (L.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Ilaria Barchetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.C.); (I.B.); (F.A.C.); (L.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Flavia Agata Cimini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.C.); (I.B.); (F.A.C.); (L.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Laura Bertoccini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.C.); (I.B.); (F.A.C.); (L.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Caterina Chiappetta
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.); (C.D.C.); (G.S.); (F.L.)
| | - Danila Capoccia
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.); (C.D.C.); (G.S.); (F.L.)
| | - Raffaella Carletti
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.); (C.D.C.); (G.S.); (F.L.)
| | - Claudio Di Cristofano
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.); (C.D.C.); (G.S.); (F.L.)
| | - Gianfranco Silecchia
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.); (C.D.C.); (G.S.); (F.L.)
| | - Mario Fontana
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli” Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Frida Leonetti
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 04100 Latina, Italy; (C.C.); (D.C.); (R.C.); (C.D.C.); (G.S.); (F.L.)
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.C.); (I.B.); (F.A.C.); (L.B.); (A.L.)
| | - Marco Giorgio Baroni
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences (MeSVA), University of L’Aquila, 67100 Coppito, Italy;
- Neuroendocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli” Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: (E.B.); (M.G.C.); Tel.: +39-(0)6-4997-4692 (M.G.C.)
| | - Maria Gisella Cavallo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.C.); (I.B.); (F.A.C.); (L.B.); (A.L.)
- Correspondence: (E.B.); (M.G.C.); Tel.: +39-(0)6-4997-4692 (M.G.C.)
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Jayanti S, Vítek L, Tiribelli C, Gazzin S. The Role of Bilirubin and the Other "Yellow Players" in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E900. [PMID: 32971784 PMCID: PMC7555389 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9090900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin is a yellow endogenous derivate of the heme catabolism. Since the 1980s, it has been recognized as one of the most potent antioxidants in nature, able to counteract 10,000× higher intracellular concentrations of H2O2. In the recent years, not only bilirubin, but also its precursor biliverdin, and the enzymes involved in their productions (namely heme oxygenase and biliverdin reductase; altogether the "yellow players"-YPs) have been recognized playing a protective role in diseases characterized by a chronic prooxidant status. Based on that, there is an ongoing effort in inducing their activity as a therapeutic option. Nevertheless, the understanding of their specific contributions to pathological conditions of the central nervous system (CNS) and their role in these diseases are limited. In this review, we will focus on the most recent evidence linking the role of the YPs specifically to neurodegenerative and neurological conditions. Both the protective, as well as potentially worsening effects of the YP's activity will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Jayanti
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.J.); (C.T.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
- Molecular Biomedicine Ph.D. Program, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Libor Vítek
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, and 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty General Hospital and 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 12000 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Claudio Tiribelli
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.J.); (C.T.)
| | - Silvia Gazzin
- Fondazione Italiana Fegato-Onlus, Bldg. Q, AREA Science Park, ss14, Km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.J.); (C.T.)
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16
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Lanzillotta C, Zuliani I, Vasavda C, Snyder SH, Paul BD, Perluigi M, Di Domenico F, Barone E. BVR-A Deficiency Leads to Autophagy Impairment through the Dysregulation of AMPK/mTOR Axis in the Brain-Implications for Neurodegeneration. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9080671. [PMID: 32727065 PMCID: PMC7466043 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A) impairment is associated with increased accumulation of oxidatively-damaged proteins along with the impairment of autophagy in the brain during neurodegenerative disorders. Reduced autophagy inhibits the clearance of misfolded proteins, which then form neurotoxic aggregates promoting neuronal death. The aim of our study was to clarify the role for BVR-A in the regulation of the mTOR/autophagy axis by evaluating age-associated changes (2, 6 and 11 months) in cerebral cortex samples collected from BVR-A knock-out (BVR-A−/−) and wild-type (WT) mice. Our results show that BVR-A deficiency leads to the accumulation of oxidatively-damaged proteins along with mTOR hyper-activation in the cortex. This process starts in juvenile mice and persists with aging. mTOR hyper-activation is associated with the impairment of autophagy as highlighted by reduced levels of Beclin-1, LC3β, LC3II/I ratio, Atg5–Atg12 complex and Atg7 in the cortex of BVR-A−/− mice. Furthermore, we have identified the dysregulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as a critical event driving mTOR hyper-activation in the absence of BVR-A. Overall, our results suggest that BVR-A is a new player in the regulation of autophagy, which may be targeted to arrive at novel therapeutics for diseases involving impaired autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.L.); (I.Z.); (M.P.)
| | - Ilaria Zuliani
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.L.); (I.Z.); (M.P.)
| | - Chirag Vasavda
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (C.V.); (S.H.S.); (B.D.P.)
| | - Solomon H. Snyder
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (C.V.); (S.H.S.); (B.D.P.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Bindu D. Paul
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (C.V.); (S.H.S.); (B.D.P.)
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.L.); (I.Z.); (M.P.)
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.L.); (I.Z.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (F.D.D.); (E.B.)
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi-Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (C.L.); (I.Z.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (F.D.D.); (E.B.)
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Dierssen M, Fructuoso M, Martínez de Lagrán M, Perluigi M, Barone E. Down Syndrome Is a Metabolic Disease: Altered Insulin Signaling Mediates Peripheral and Brain Dysfunctions. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:670. [PMID: 32733190 PMCID: PMC7360727 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is the most frequent chromosomal abnormality that causes intellectual disability, resulting from the presence of an extra complete or segment of chromosome 21 (HSA21). In addition, trisomy of HSA21 contributes to altered energy metabolism that appears to be a strong determinant in the development of pathological phenotypes associated with DS. Alterations include, among others, mitochondrial defects, increased oxidative stress levels, impaired glucose, and lipid metabolism, finally resulting in reduced energy production and cellular dysfunctions. These molecular defects seem to account for a high incidence of metabolic disorders, i.e., diabetes and/or obesity, as well as a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in DS. A dysregulation of the insulin signaling with reduced downstream pathways represents a common pathophysiological aspect in the development of both peripheral and central alterations leading to diabetes/obesity and AD. This is further strengthened by evidence showing that the molecular mechanisms responsible for such alterations appear to be similar between peripheral organs and brain. Considering that DS subjects are at high risk to develop either peripheral or brain metabolic defects, this review will discuss current knowledge about the link between trisomy of HSA21 and defects of insulin and insulin-related pathways in DS. Drawing the molecular signature underlying these processes in DS is a key challenge to identify novel drug targets and set up new prevention strategies aimed to reduce the impact of metabolic disorders and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Dierssen
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,Human Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Fructuoso
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martínez de Lagrán
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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18
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Biliverdin Reductase A (BVRA) Knockout in Adipocytes Induces Hypertrophy and Reduces Mitochondria in White Fat of Obese Mice. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10030387. [PMID: 32131495 PMCID: PMC7175174 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Biliverdin reductase (BVR) is an enzymatic and signaling protein that has multifaceted roles in physiological systems. Despite the wealth of knowledge about BVR, no data exist regarding its actions in adipocytes. Here, we generated an adipose-specific deletion of biliverdin reductase-A (BVRA) (BlvraFatKO) in mice to determine the function of BVRA in adipocytes and how it may impact adipose tissue expansion. The BlvraFatKO and littermate control (BlvraFlox) mice were placed on a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. Body weights were measured weekly and body composition, fasting blood glucose and insulin levels were quantitated at the end of the 12 weeks. The data showed that the percent body fat and body weights did not differ between the groups; however, BlvraFatKO mice had significantly higher visceral fat as compared to the BlvraFlox. The loss of adipocyte BVRA decreased the mitochondrial number in white adipose tissue (WAT), and increased inflammation and adipocyte size, but this was not observed in brown adipose tissue (BAT). There were genes significantly reduced in WAT that induce the browning effect such as Ppara and Adrb3, indicating that BVRA improves mitochondria function and beige-type white adipocytes. The BlvraFatKO mice also had significantly higher fasting blood glucose levels and no changes in plasma insulin levels, which is indicative of decreased insulin signaling in WAT, as evidenced by reduced levels of phosphorylated AKT (pAKT) and Glut4 mRNA. These results demonstrate the essential role of BVRA in WAT in insulin signaling and adipocyte hypertrophy.
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Hong M, Almutairi MM, Li S, Li J. Wogonin inhibits cell cycle progression by activating the glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta in hepatocellular carcinoma. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 68:153174. [PMID: 31991293 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wogonin has been reported to exhibit various biological activities such as anti-inflammation, anti-microbial, and anti-tumor. Previous studies have demonstrated that wogonin could down-regulate Cyclin D1 activity on multiple cancers. However, the related mechanisms have not been fully elucidated so far. PURPOSE The aim of the current study was to explore whether wogonin can suppress hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and the mechanism of wogonin in inhibiting Cyclin D1 expression. METHODS Herein, we assessed the anti-tumor activity of wogonin against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by MTT assay, clonogenic assay, cell cycle analysis and orthotopic xenograft mouse models. Western blot, immunofluoscence assay, co-immunoprecipitation assay, docking program, surface plasmon resonance, site-directed mutagenesis assay and immunohistochemical assay were performed for exploring the underlying mechanisms of wogonin-induced growth inhibition in HCC. RESULTS Our results showed that non-toxic dosage of wogonin (10, 20 µM) could inhibit cells proliferation and suppress cells cycle progression in MHCC97L and HepG2 cell. Moreover, the findings from the western blot and immunofluoscence assay confirmed the inhibition action of wogonin (10, 20 µM) on Cyclin D1 expression in MHCC97L cells, and wogonin (10, 20 µM) pre-treatment was capable of promoting Cyclin D1 ubiquitination and degradation in MHCC97L cell. In addition, wogonin promoted phosphorylation of Cyclin D1 on threonine-286 site, the mutation of threonine-286 to alanine-286A blocked Cyclin D1 proteolysis induced by wogonin. Wogonin-promoted Cyclin D1 phosphorylation and subsequent proteolysis may associate with the activation of GSK3beta in cancer cells. The phosphorylated form of GSK3beta (active form) expression was significantly increased after wogonin (20 µM) exposure. Molecular docking study and Biacore SPR analysis of GSK3beta mutant further validated the high-affinity wogonin binding site on GSK3beta. Moreover, in vivo studies further confirmed that phospho-GSK3beta Tyr216 was over-expressed in HCC specimens after wogonin treatment while the amount of Cyclin D1 was significantly decreased. CONCLUSION In summary, our data reveal a novel molecular mechanism by which wogonin induces HCC cells cycle arrest and suppresses tumor proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Hong
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Mohammed M Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
| | - Siying Li
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
| | - Jinke Li
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States.
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Canesin G, Hejazi SM, Swanson KD, Wegiel B. Heme-Derived Metabolic Signals Dictate Immune Responses. Front Immunol 2020; 11:66. [PMID: 32082323 PMCID: PMC7005208 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Heme is one of the most abundant molecules in the body acting as the functional core of hemoglobin/myoglobin involved in the O2/CO2 carrying in the blood and tissues, redox enzymes and cytochromes in mitochondria. However, free heme is toxic and therefore its removal is a significant priority for the host. Heme is a well-established danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP), which binds to toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) to induce immune responses. Heme-derived metabolites including the bile pigments, biliverdin (BV) and bilirubin (BR), were first identified as toxic drivers of neonatal jaundice in 1800 but have only recently been appreciated as endogenous drivers of multiple signaling pathways involved in protection from oxidative stress and regulators of immune responses. The tissue concentration of heme, BV and BR is tightly controlled. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1, encoded by HMOX1) produces BV by heme degradation, while biliverdin reductase-A (BLVR-A) generates BR by the subsequent conversion of BV. BLVR-A is a fascinating protein that possesses a classical protein kinase domain, which is activated in response to BV binding to its enzymatic site and initiates the downstream mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathways. This links BLVR-A activity to cell growth and survival pathways. BLVR-A also contains a bZip DNA binding domain and a nuclear export sequence (NES) and acts as a transcription factor to regulate the expression of immune modulatory genes. Here we will discuss the role of heme-related immune response and the potential for targeting the heme system for therapies directed toward hepatitis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Canesin
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Institute and Transplant Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Seyed M Hejazi
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Institute and Transplant Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kenneth D Swanson
- Brain Tumor Center and Neuro-Oncology Unit, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Barbara Wegiel
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Research Institute and Transplant Institute, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Hinds TD, Stec DE. Bilirubin Safeguards Cardiorenal and Metabolic Diseases: a Protective Role in Health. Curr Hypertens Rep 2019; 21:87. [PMID: 31599366 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-019-0994-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To discuss recent advances indicating that bilirubin safeguards against cardiorenal and metabolic diseases. RECENT FINDINGS Several investigations from human patient populations and experimental animal models have shown that bilirubin improves cardiorenal and metabolic dysfunction. The latest studies found an entirely new function of bilirubin suggesting that it acts as a hormone signaling molecule capable of activating nuclear receptors for burning fat, which may explain several of its protective actions. This review highlights the current findings (within the last 3 years) regarding cardiorenal and metabolic protective effects of bilirubin and the latest mechanism(s) that may be mediating these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry D Hinds
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - David E Stec
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA.
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22
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Gordon DM, Adeosun SO, Ngwudike SI, Anderson CD, Hall JE, Hinds TD, Stec DE. CRISPR Cas9-mediated deletion of biliverdin reductase A (BVRA) in mouse liver cells induces oxidative stress and lipid accumulation. Arch Biochem Biophys 2019; 672:108072. [PMID: 31422074 PMCID: PMC6718297 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2019.108072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is the predominant cause of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes. NAFLD includes a spectrum of pathologies that starts with simple steatosis, which can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with the commission of other factors such as the enhancement of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Biliverdin reductase A (BVRA) reduces biliverdin to the antioxidant bilirubin, which may serve to prevent NAFLD, and possibly the progression to NASH. To further understand the role of BVRA in hepatic function, we used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to target the Blvra gene in the murine hepa1c1c7 hepatocyte cell line (BVRA KO). BVRA activity and protein levels were significantly lower in BVRA KO vs. wild-type (WT) hepatocytes. Lipid accumulation under basal and serum-starved conditions was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in BVRA KO vs. WT cells. The loss of BVRA resulted in the reduction of mitochondria number, decreased expression of markers of mitochondrial biogenesis, uncoupling, oxidation, and fusion, which paralleled reduced mitochondrial oxygen consumption. BVRA KO cells exhibited increased levels of ROS generation and decreased levels of superoxide dismutase mRNA expression. In conclusion, our data demonstrate a critical role for BVRA in protecting against lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in hepatocytes, which may serve as a future therapeutic target for NAFLD and its progression to NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren M Gordon
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - Samuel O Adeosun
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, USA
| | | | - Christopher D Anderson
- Departments of Surgery and Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State St, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - John E Hall
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, USA
| | - Terry D Hinds
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA
| | - David E Stec
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, USA.
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TLR4 counteracts BVRA signaling in human leukocytes via differential regulation of AMPK, mTORC1 and mTORC2. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7020. [PMID: 31065010 PMCID: PMC6504875 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43347-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
TLR4 is implicated in diseases associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, yet homeostatic signaling mechanisms that prevent and/or are affected by chronic TLR4 activation are largely uncharacterized. We recently reported that LPS/TLR4 activates in human leukocytes signaling intermediates (SI), abbreviated TLR4-SI, which include mTORC1-specific effectors and targets, and that leukocytes of patients with T2D or after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) expressed similar SI. Extending these previous findings, here we show that TLR4-SI expression post-CPB was associated with low serum bilirubin and reduced preoperative expression of biliverdin reductase A (BVRA), the enzyme that converts biliverdin to bilirubin, in patient’s leukocytes. Biliverdin inhibited TLR4 signaling in leukocytes and triggered phosphorylation of mTORC2-specific targets, including Akt, PKCζ, AMPKα-LKB1-TSC1/2, and their association with BVRA. Torin, PP242, and a PKCζ inhibitory peptide, but not rapamycin, prevented these biliverdin-induced responses and TLR4 inhibition. In contrast, LPS/TLR4 triggered decreases in BVRA, AMPKα and PKCζ expression, and an increase in haptoglobin, a heme binding protein, in leukocytes in vivo and in vitro, indicating that activated TLR4 may suppress biliverdin/BVRA signaling. Significantly, compared to non-diabetics, BVRA and PKCζ expression was low and haptoglobin was high in T2D patients leukocytes. Sustained TLR4 activation may deregulate homeostatic anti-inflammatory BVRA/mTORC2 signaling and thereby contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry D Hinds
- From the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Toledo College of Medicine, OH (T.D.H.)
| | - David E Stec
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson (D.E.S.)
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25
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Bisht K, Canesin G, Cheytan T, Li M, Nemeth Z, Csizmadia E, Woodruff TM, Stec DE, Bulmer AC, Otterbein LE, Wegiel B. Deletion of Biliverdin Reductase A in Myeloid Cells Promotes Chemokine Expression and Chemotaxis in Part via a Complement C5a--C5aR1 Pathway. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 202:2982-2990. [PMID: 30952817 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1701443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Biliverdin reductase (BVR)-A is a pleotropic enzyme converting biliverdin to bilirubin and a signaling molecule that has cytoprotective and immunomodulatory effects. We recently showed that biliverdin inhibits the expression of complement activation fragment 5a receptor one (C5aR1) in RAW 264.7 macrophages. In this study, we investigated the role of BVR-A in determining macrophage inflammatory phenotype and function via regulation of C5aR1. We assessed expression of C5aR1, M1-like macrophage markers, including chemokines (RANTES, IP-10), as well as chemotaxis in response to LPS and C5a in bone marrow-derived macrophages from BVR fl/fl and LysM-Cre:BVR fl / fl mice (conditional deletion of BVR-A in myeloid cells). In response to LPS, macrophages isolated from LysM-Cre:BVR fl/fl showed significantly elevated levels of C5aR1 as well as chemokines (RANTES, IP10) but not proinflammatory markers, such as iNOS and TNF. An increase in C5aR1 expression was also observed in peritoneal macrophages and several tissues from LysM-Cre:BVR fl/fl mice in a model of endotoxemia. In addition, knockdown of BVR-A resulted in enhanced macrophage chemotaxis toward C5a. Part of the effects of BVR-A deletion on chemotaxis and RANTES expression were blocked in the presence of a C5aR1 neutralizing Ab, confirming the role of C5a-C5aR1 signaling in mediating the effects of BVR. In summary, BVR-A plays an important role in regulating macrophage chemotaxis in response to C5a via modulation of C5aR1 expression. In addition, macrophages lacking BVR-A are characterized by the expression of M1 polarization-associated chemokines, the levels of which depend in part on C5aR1 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Bisht
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215.,Cancer Care and Biology Program, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Giacomo Canesin
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Tasneem Cheytan
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Mailin Li
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Zsuzsanna Nemeth
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Eva Csizmadia
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Trent M Woodruff
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - David E Stec
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216; and
| | - Andrew C Bulmer
- School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Leo E Otterbein
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Barbara Wegiel
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215;
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26
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Cimini FA, Arena A, Barchetta I, Tramutola A, Ceccarelli V, Lanzillotta C, Fontana M, Bertoccini L, Leonetti F, Capoccia D, Silecchia G, Di Cristofano C, Chiappetta C, Di Domenico F, Baroni MG, Perluigi M, Cavallo MG, Barone E. Reduced biliverdin reductase-A levels are associated with early alterations of insulin signaling in obesity. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1865:1490-1501. [PMID: 30826467 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A) is a serine/threonine/tyrosine kinase involved in the regulation of insulin signaling. In vitro studies have demonstrated that BVR-A is a substrate of the insulin receptor and regulates IRS1 by avoiding its aberrant activation, and in animal model of obesity the loss of hepatic BVR-A has been associated with glucose/insulin alterations and fatty liver disease. However, no studies exist in humans. Here, we evaluated BVR-A expression levels and activation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from obese subjects and matched lean controls and we investigated the related molecular alterations of the insulin along with clinical correlates. We showed that BVR-A levels are significantly reduced in obese subjects and associated with a hyper-activation of the IR/IRS1/Akt/GSK-3β/AS160/GLUT4 pathway. Low BVR-A levels also associate with the presence of obesity, metabolic syndrome, NASH and visceral adipose tissue inflammation. These data suggest that the reduction of BVR-A may be responsible for early alterations of the insulin signaling pathway in obesity and in this context may represent a novel molecular target to be investigated for the comprehension of the process of insulin resistance development in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Agata Cimini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Arena
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Barchetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Fontana
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Bertoccini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Frida Leonetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Danila Capoccia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Silecchia
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Di Cristofano
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Chiappetta
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Bio-Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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27
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Sharma N, Tramutola A, Lanzillotta C, Arena A, Blarzino C, Cassano T, Butterfield DA, Di Domenico F, Perluigi M, Barone E. Loss of biliverdin reductase-A favors Tau hyper-phosphorylation in Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 125:176-189. [PMID: 30738142 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyper-active GSK-3β favors Tau phosphorylation during the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Akt is one of the main kinases inhibiting GSK-3β and its activation occurs in response to neurotoxic stimuli including, i.e., oxidative stress. Biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A) is a scaffold protein favoring the Akt-mediated inhibition of GSK-3β. Reduced BVR-A levels along with increased oxidative stress were observed early in the hippocampus of 3xTg-AD mice (at 6 months), thus suggesting that loss of BVR-A could be a limiting factor in the oxidative stress-induced Akt-mediated inhibition of GSK-3β in AD. We evaluated changes of BVR-A, Akt, GSK-3β, oxidative stress and Tau phosphorylation levels: (a) in brain from young (6-months) and old (12-months) 3xTg-AD mice; and (b) in post-mortem inferior parietal lobule (IPL) samples from amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI), from AD and from age-matched controls. Furthermore, similar analyses were performed in vitro in cells lacking BVR-A and treated with H2O2. Reduced BVR-A levels along with: (a) increased oxidative stress; (b) reduced GSK-3β inhibition; and (c) increased Tau Ser404 phosphorylation (target of GSK-3β activity) without changes of Akt activation in young mice, were observed. Similar findings were obtained in MCI, consistent with the notion that this is a molecular mechanism disrupted in humans. Interestingly, cells lacking BVR-A and treated with H2O2 showed reduced GSK-3β inhibition and increased Tau Ser404 phosphorylation, which resulted from a defect of Akt and GSK-3β physical interaction. Reduced levels of Akt/GSK-3β complex were confirmed in both young 3xTg-AD and MCI brain. We demonstrated that loss of BVR-A impairs the neuroprotective Akt-mediated inhibition of GSK-3β in response to oxidative stress, thus contributing to Tau hyper-phosphorylation in early stage AD. Such changes potential provide promising therapeutic targets for this devastating disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Sharma
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy
| | - Antonella Tramutola
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy
| | - Chiara Lanzillotta
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy
| | - Andrea Arena
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy
| | - Carla Blarzino
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy
| | - Tommaso Cassano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via L. Pinto, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - D Allan Butterfield
- Department of Chemistry, Markey Cancer Center, and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0055, USA
| | - Fabio Di Domenico
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale A. Moro 5, Roma 00185, Italy.
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Zhou X, Zhang R, Zou Z, Shen X, Xie T, Xu C, Dong J, Liao L. Hypoglycaemic effects of glimepiride in sulfonylurea receptor 1 deficient rat. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 176:478-490. [PMID: 30471094 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Sulfonylureas (SUs) have been suggested to have an insulin-independent blood glucose-decreasing activity due to an extrapancreatic effect. However, a lack of adequate in vivo evidence makes this statement controversial. Here, we aimed to evaluate whether glimepiride has extrapancreatic blood glucose-lowering activity in vivo. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Sulfonylurea receptor 1 deficient (SUR1-/- ) rats were created by means of transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALEN)-mediated gene targeting technology. Type 2 diabetic models were established by feeding a high-fat diet and administering a low-dose of streptozotocin. These rats were then randomly divided into four groups: glimepiride, gliclazide, metformin and saline. All rats were treated for 2 weeks. KEY RESULTS Glimepiride decreased blood glucose levels and increased insulin sensitivity without elevating insulin levels. Gliclazide showed similar effects as glimepiride. Both agents were weaker than metformin. Further mechanistic investigations revealed that glimepiride increased hepatic glycogen synthesis and decreased gluconeogenesis, which were accompanied by the activation of Akt in the liver. Moreover, glimepiride increased both total and membrane glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) levels in muscle and fat, which might be attributed to insulin receptor-independent IRS1/Akt activation. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Glimepiride possesses an extrapancreatic blood glucose-lowering effect in vivo, which might be attributed to its direct effect on insulin-sensitive tissues. Therefore, the combination of glimepiride with multiple insulin injections should not be excluded per se.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiwei Zou
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xue Shen
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Tianyue Xie
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chunmei Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jianjun Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Liao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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29
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Biliverdin reductase-A impairment links brain insulin resistance with increased Aβ production in an animal model of aging: Implications for Alzheimer disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1864:3181-3194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Biliverdin Reductase-A Mediates the Beneficial Effects of Intranasal Insulin in Alzheimer Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:2922-2943. [PMID: 30073505 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1231-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Impairment of biliverdin reductase-A (BVR-A) is an early event leading to brain insulin resistance in AD. Intranasal insulin (INI) administration is under evaluation as a strategy to alleviate brain insulin resistance; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying INI beneficial effects are still unclear. We show that INI improves insulin signaling activation in the hippocampus and cortex of adult and aged 3×Tg-AD mice by ameliorating BVR-A activation. These changes were associated with a reduction of nitrosative stress, Tau phosphorylation, and Aβ oligomers in brain, along with improved cognitive functions. The role of BVR-A was strengthened by showing that cells lacking BVR-A: (i) develop insulin resistance if treated with insulin and (ii) can be recovered from insulin resistance only if treated with a BVR-A-mimetic peptide. These novel findings shed light on the mechanisms underlying INI treatment effects and suggest BVR-A as potential therapeutic target to prevent brain insulin resistance in AD.
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31
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Weaver L, Hamoud AR, Stec DE, Hinds TD. Biliverdin reductase and bilirubin in hepatic disease. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2018; 314:G668-G676. [PMID: 29494209 PMCID: PMC6032063 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00026.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The buildup of fat in the liver (hepatic steatosis) is the first step in a series of incidents that may drive hepatic disease. Obesity is the leading cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), in which hepatic steatosis progresses to liver disease. Chronic alcohol exposure also induces fat accumulation in the liver and shares numerous similarities to obesity-induced NAFLD. Regardless of whether hepatic steatosis is due to obesity or long-term alcohol use, it still may lead to hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, or possibly hepatocellular carcinoma. The antioxidant bilirubin and the enzyme that generates it, biliverdin reductase A (BVRA), are components of the heme catabolic pathway that have been shown to reduce hepatic steatosis. This review discusses the roles for bilirubin and BVRA in the prevention of steatosis, their functions in the later stages of liver disease, and their potential therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Weaver
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension and Personalized Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
| | - Abdul-rizaq Hamoud
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension and Personalized Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
| | - David E. Stec
- 2Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Terry D. Hinds
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Center for Hypertension and Personalized Medicine, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio
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32
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Motterlini R, Foresti R. Biological signaling by carbon monoxide and carbon monoxide-releasing molecules. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2017; 312:C302-C313. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00360.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Carbon monoxide (CO) is continuously produced in mammalian cells during the degradation of heme. It is a stable gaseous molecule that reacts selectively with transition metals in a specific redox state, and these characteristics restrict the interaction of CO with defined biological targets that transduce its signaling activity. Because of the high affinity of CO for ferrous heme, these targets can be grouped into heme-containing proteins, representing a large variety of sensors and enzymes with a series of diverse function in the cell and the organism. Despite this notion, progress in identifying which of these targets are selective for CO has been slow and even the significance of elevated carbonmonoxy hemoglobin, a classical marker used to diagnose CO poisoning, is not well understood. This is also due to the lack of technologies capable of assessing in a comprehensive fashion the distribution and local levels of CO between the blood circulation, the tissue, and the mitochondria, one of the cellular compartments where CO exerts its signaling or detrimental effects. Nevertheless, the use of CO gas and CO-releasing molecules as pharmacological approaches in models of disease has provided new important information about the signaling properties of CO. In this review we will analyze the most salient effects of CO in biology and discuss how the binding of CO with key ferrous hemoproteins serves as a posttranslational modification that regulates important processes as diverse as aerobic metabolism, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial bioenergetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Motterlini
- Inserm U955, Team 12, Créteil, France; and Faculty of Medicine, Université Paris Est, Créteil, France
| | - Roberta Foresti
- Inserm U955, Team 12, Créteil, France; and Faculty of Medicine, Université Paris Est, Créteil, France
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Hinds TD, Burns KA, Hosick PA, McBeth L, Nestor-Kalinoski A, Drummond HA, AlAmodi AA, Hankins MW, Vanden Heuvel JP, Stec DE. Biliverdin Reductase A Attenuates Hepatic Steatosis by Inhibition of Glycogen Synthase Kinase (GSK) 3β Phosphorylation of Serine 73 of Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor (PPAR) α. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:25179-25191. [PMID: 27738106 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.731703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the most rapidly growing form of liver disease and if left untreated can result in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, ultimately resulting in liver cirrhosis and failure. Biliverdin reductase A (BVRA) is a multifunctioning protein primarily responsible for the reduction of biliverdin to bilirubin. Also, BVRA functions as a kinase and transcription factor, regulating several cellular functions. We report here that liver BVRA protects against hepatic steatosis by inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) by enhancing serine 9 phosphorylation, which inhibits its activity. We show that GSK3β phosphorylates serine 73 (Ser(P)73) of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα), which in turn increased ubiquitination and protein turnover, as well as decreased activity. Interestingly, liver-specific BVRA KO mice had increased GSK3β activity and Ser(P)73 of PPARα, which resulted in decreased PPARα protein and activity. Furthermore, the liver-specific BVRA KO mice exhibited increased plasma glucose and insulin levels and decreased glycogen storage, which may be due to the manifestation of hepatic steatosis observed in the mice. These findings reveal a novel BVRA-GSKβ-PPARα axis that regulates hepatic lipid metabolism and may provide unique targets for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry D Hinds
- the Center for Hypertension and Personalized Medicine, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology,
| | - Katherine A Burns
- the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, and.,the Department of Environmental Health, Division of Environmental Genetics and Molecular Toxicology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Peter A Hosick
- From the Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216.,the Department of Exercise Science and Physical Education, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
| | - Lucien McBeth
- the Center for Hypertension and Personalized Medicine, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology
| | - Andrea Nestor-Kalinoski
- Advanced Microscopy & Imaging Center, Department of Surgery, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo Ohio 43614
| | - Heather A Drummond
- From the Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216
| | - Abdulhadi A AlAmodi
- From the Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216
| | - Michael W Hankins
- From the Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216
| | - John P Vanden Heuvel
- the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, and
| | - David E Stec
- From the Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Mississippi Center for Obesity Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216,
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