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Qu M, Lu P, Lifshitz LM, Moore Simas TA, Delpapa E, ZhuGe R. Phenanthroline relaxes uterine contractions induced by diverse contractile agents by decreasing cytosolic calcium concentration. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 968:176343. [PMID: 38281680 PMCID: PMC10939717 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176343] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Uterine contractions during labor and preterm labor are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including hormones and inflammatory mediators. This complexity may contribute to the limited efficacy of current tocolytics for preterm labor, a significant challenge in obstetrics with 15 million cases annually and approximately 1 million resulting deaths worldwide. We have previously shown that the myometrium expresses bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) and that their activation leads to uterine relaxation. Here, we investigated whether the selective TAS2R5 agonist phenanthroline can induce relaxation across a spectrum of human uterine contractions and whether the underlying mechanism involves changes in intracellular Ca2+ signaling. We performed experiments using samples from pregnant women undergoing scheduled cesarean delivery, assessing responses to various inflammatory mediators and oxytocin with and without phenanthroline. Our results showed that phenanthroline concentration-dependently inhibited contractions induced by PGF2α, U46619, 5-HT, endothelin-1 and oxytocin. Furthermore, in hTERT-infected human myometrial cells exposed to uterotonics, phenanthroline effectively suppressed the increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration induced by PGF2α, U46619, oxytocin, and endothelin-1. These results suggest that the selective TAS2R5 agonist may not only significantly reduce uterine contractions but also decrease intracellular Ca2+ levels. This study highlights the potential development of TAS2R5 agonists as a new class of uterine relaxants, providing a novel avenue for improving the management of preterm labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzi Qu
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, UMass Chan Medical School, 363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ping Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, UMass Chan Medical School, 363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lawrence M Lifshitz
- Program in Molecular Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, 373 Plantation St., Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Tiffany A Moore Simas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMass Chan Medical School/UMass Memorial Health, 119 Belmont St, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Delpapa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMass Chan Medical School/UMass Memorial Health, 119 Belmont St, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Ronghua ZhuGe
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, UMass Chan Medical School, 363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA, USA.
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Lu P, Simas TAM, Delpapa E, ZhuGe R. Bitter taste receptors in the reproductive system: Function and therapeutic implications. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31179. [PMID: 38219077 PMCID: PMC10922893 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31179] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Type 2 taste receptors (TAS2Rs), traditionally known for their role in bitter taste perception, are present in diverse reproductive tissues of both sexes. This review explores our current understanding of TAS2R functions with a particular focus on reproductive health. In males, TAS2Rs are believed to play potential roles in processes such as sperm chemotaxis and male fertility. Genetic insights from mouse models and human polymorphism studies provide some evidence for their contribution to male infertility. In female reproduction, it is speculated that TAS2Rs influence the ovarian milieu, shaping the functions of granulosa and cumulus cells and their interactions with oocytes. In the uterus, TAS2Rs contribute to uterine relaxation and hold potential as therapeutic targets for preventing preterm birth. In the placenta, they are proposed to function as vigilant sentinels, responding to infection and potentially modulating mechanisms of fetal protection. In the cervix and vagina, their analogous functions to those in other extraoral tissues suggest a potential role in infection defense. In addition, TAS2Rs exhibit altered expression patterns that profoundly affect cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis in reproductive cancers. Notably, TAS2R agonists show promise in inducing apoptosis and overcoming chemoresistance in these malignancies. Despite these advances, challenges remain, including a lack of genetic and functional studies. The application of techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated endonuclease 9 gene editing could provide deeper insights into TAS2Rs in reproduction, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies for reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological System, UMass Chan Medical School, 363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Tiffany A. Moore Simas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMass Chan Medical School/UMass Memorial Health, Memorial Campus 119 Belmont St., Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Delpapa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UMass Chan Medical School/UMass Memorial Health, Memorial Campus 119 Belmont St., Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ronghua ZhuGe
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological System, UMass Chan Medical School, 363 Plantation St., Worcester, MA, USA
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3
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Maxey AP, Travis JM, McCain ML. Regulation of oxytocin-induced calcium transients and gene expression in engineered myometrial tissues by tissue architecture and matrix rigidity. Curr Res Physiol 2023; 6:100108. [PMID: 38107790 PMCID: PMC10724203 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2023.100108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus is susceptible to benign tumors known as fibroids, which have been associated with many pregnancy complications, including preterm labor. However, the impact of fibrotic tissue remodeling on the physiology of the myometrium, the smooth muscle layer of the uterus, is poorly understood, in large part due to a lack of model systems. In this study, we engineered healthy-like and fibrotic-like myometrium by culturing human myometrial smooth muscle cells on polyacrylamide hydrogels micropatterned with fibronectin to independently tune matrix rigidity and tissue alignment, respectively. We then evaluated calcium transients in response to oxytocin stimulation. Isotropic myometrial tissues on stiff substrates (representing fibrotic myometrium) had shorter calcium transients due to shorter decay time compared to aligned myometrial tissues on soft substrates (representing healthy myometrium). Calcium transients in aligned tissues had longer response times and longer decay times than isotropic tissues, irrespective of substrate stiffness. The amplitude of calcium transients was also higher on soft substrates compared to stiff substrates, irrespective of tissue alignment. We also performed RNA sequencing to detect differentially expressed genes between healthy- and fibrotic-like tissues, which revealed that a bitter taste receptor shown to induce smooth muscle relaxation, TAS2R31, was down-regulated in fibrotic-like tissues. Finally, we measured oxytocin-induced calcium transients in response to pre-treatment with progesterone, caffeine, thrombin, and nifedipine to demonstrate applications for our model system in drug screening. Both progesterone and caffeine caused a decrease in calcium transient duration, as expected, while thrombin and nifedipine had less impact. Collectively, our engineered model of the myometrium enables new insights into myometrial mechanobiology and can be extended to identify or screen novel drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonina P. Maxey
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jaya M. Travis
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Megan L. McCain
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Talmon M, Massara E, Quaregna M, De Battisti M, Boccafoschi F, Lecchi G, Puppo F, Bettega Cajandab MA, Salamone S, Bovio E, Boldorini R, Riva B, Pollastro F, Fresu LG. Bitter taste receptor (TAS2R) 46 in human skeletal muscle: expression and activity. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1205651. [PMID: 37771728 PMCID: PMC10522851 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1205651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Bitter taste receptors are involved not only in taste perception but in various physiological functions as their anatomical location is not restricted to the gustatory system. We previously demonstrated expression and activity of the subtype hTAS2R46 in human airway smooth muscle and broncho-epithelial cells, and here we show its expression and functionality in human skeletal muscle cells. Three different cellular models were used: micro-dissected human skeletal tissues, human myoblasts/myotubes and human skeletal muscle cells differentiated from urine stem cells of healthy donors. We used qPCR, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analysis to evaluate gene and protein hTAS2R46 expression. In order to explore receptor activity, cells were incubated with the specific bitter ligands absinthin and 3ß-hydroxydihydrocostunolide, and calcium oscillation and relaxation were evaluated by calcium imaging and collagen assay, respectively, after a cholinergic stimulus. We show, for the first time, experimentally the presence and functionality of a type 2 bitter receptor in human skeletal muscle cells. Given the tendentially protective role of the bitter receptors starting from the oral cavity and following also in the other ectopic sites, and given its expression already at the myoblast level, we hypothesize that the bitter receptor can play an important role in the development, maintenance and in the protection of muscle tissue functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Talmon
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Erika Massara
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Martina Quaregna
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Marta De Battisti
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Francesca Boccafoschi
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Giulia Lecchi
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Federico Puppo
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Salamone
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Enrica Bovio
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Renzo Boldorini
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Beatrice Riva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Federica Pollastro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Luigia G. Fresu
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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5
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Siricilla S, Hansen CJ, Rogers JH, De D, Simpson CL, Waterson AG, Sulikowski GA, Crockett SL, Boatwright N, Reese J, Paria BC, Newton J, Herington JL. Arrest of mouse preterm labor until term delivery by combination therapy with atosiban and mundulone, a natural product with tocolytic efficacy. Pharmacol Res 2023; 195:106876. [PMID: 37536638 PMCID: PMC10712649 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
There is a lack of FDA-approved tocolytics for the management of preterm labor (PL). In prior drug discovery efforts, we identified mundulone and mundulone acetate (MA) as inhibitors of in vitro intracellular Ca2+-regulated myometrial contractility. In this study, we probed the tocolytic potential of these compounds using human myometrial samples and a mouse model of preterm birth. In a phenotypic assay, mundulone displayed greater efficacy, while MA showed greater potency and uterine-selectivity in the inhibition of intracellular-Ca2+ mobilization. Cell viability assays revealed that MA was significantly less cytotoxic. Organ bath and vessel myography studies showed that only mundulone exerted inhibition of myometrial contractions and that neither compounds affected vasoreactivity of ductus arteriosus. A high-throughput combination screen identified that mundulone exhibits synergism with two clinical-tocolytics (atosiban and nifedipine), and MA displayed synergistic efficacy with nifedipine. Of these combinations, mundulone+atosiban demonstrated a significant improvement in the in vitro therapeutic index compared to mundulone alone. The ex vivo and in vivo synergism of mundulone+atosiban was substantiated, yielding greater tocolytic efficacy and potency on myometrial tissue and reduced preterm birth rates in a mouse model of PL compared to each single agent. Treatment with mundulone after mifepristone administration dose-dependently delayed the timing of delivery. Importantly, mundulone+atosiban permitted long-term management of PL, allowing 71% dams to deliver viable pups at term (>day 19, 4-5 days post-mifepristone exposure) without visible maternal and fetal consequences. Collectively, these studies provide a strong foundation for the development of mundulone as a single or combination tocolytic for management of PL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shajila Siricilla
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Christopher J Hansen
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jackson H Rogers
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Debasmita De
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Carolyn L Simpson
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Alex G Waterson
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Gary A Sulikowski
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Stacey L Crockett
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Naoko Boatwright
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeff Reese
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Bibhash C Paria
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - J Newton
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jennifer L Herington
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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Navarro-Dorado J, Climent B, López-Oliva ME, Pilar Martínez M, Hernández-Martín M, Agis-Torres Á, Recio P, Victoria Barahona M, Benedito S, Fernandes VS, Hernández M. The bitter taste receptor (TAS2R) agonist denatonium promotes a strong relaxation of rat corpus cavernosum. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115754. [PMID: 37597814 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Bitter taste receptors (TAS2R) are found in numerous extra-oral tissues, including smooth muscle (SM) cells in both vascular and visceral tissues. Upon activation, TAS2R stimulate the relaxation of the SM. Nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway is involved in penile erection, and type 5 phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitors, a cGMP-specific hydrolase are used as first-line treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED). Nevertheless, PDE5 inhibitors are ineffective in a considerable number of patients, prompting research into alternative pharmacological targets for ED. Since TAS2R agonists regulate SM contractility, this study investigates the role of TAS2Rs in rat corpus cavernosum (CC). We performed immunohistochemistry to detect TAS2R10, isometric force recordings for TAS2R agonists denatonium and chloroquine, the slow-release H2S donor GYY 4137, the NO donor SNAP, the β-adrenoceptor agonist isoproterenol and electrical field stimulation (EFS), as well as measurement of endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production. The immunofluorescence staining indicated that TAS2R10 was broadly expressed in the CC SM and to some extent in the nerve fibers. Denatonium, chloroquine, SNAP, and isoproterenol cause potent dose-dependent SM relaxations. H2S production was decreased by NO and H2S synthase inhibitors, while it was enhanced by denatonium. In addition, denatonium increased the relaxations induced by GYY 4137 and SNAP but failed to modify EFS- and isoproterenol-induced responses. These results suggest neuronal and SM TAS2R10 expression in the rat CC, where denatonium induces a strong SM relaxation per se and promotes the H2S- and NO-mediated inhibitory gaseous neurotransmission. Thus, TAS2R10 might represent a valuable therapeutic target in ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Navarro-Dorado
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Climent
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - María Elvira López-Oliva
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - María Pilar Martínez
- Departamento de Anatomía y Embriología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Hernández-Martín
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Agis-Torres
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - Paz Recio
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - María Victoria Barahona
- Departamento de Farmacología y Toxicología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Benedito
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain
| | - Vítor S Fernandes
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain.
| | - Medardo Hernández
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040-Madrid, Spain.
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Siricilla S, Hansen CJ, Rogers JH, De D, Simpson CL, Waterson AG, Sulikowski GA, Crockett SL, Boatwright N, Reese J, Paria BC, Newton J, Herington JL. Arrest of mouse preterm labor until term delivery by combination therapy with atosiban and mundulone, a natural product with tocolytic efficacy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.06.543921. [PMID: 37333338 PMCID: PMC10274706 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.06.543921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there is a lack of FDA-approved tocolytics for the management of preterm labor (PL). In prior drug discovery efforts, we identified mundulone and its analog mundulone acetate (MA) as inhibitors of in vitro intracellular Ca 2+ -regulated myometrial contractility. In this study, we probed the tocolytic and therapeutic potential of these small molecules using myometrial cells and tissues obtained from patients receiving cesarean deliveries, as well as a mouse model of PL resulting in preterm birth. In a phenotypic assay, mundulone displayed greater efficacy in the inhibition of intracellular-Ca 2+ from myometrial cells; however, MA showed greater potency and uterine-selectivity, based IC 50 and E max values between myometrial cells compared to aorta vascular smooth muscle cells, a major maternal off-target site of current tocolytics. Cell viability assays revealed that MA was significantly less cytotoxic. Organ bath and vessel myography studies showed that only mundulone exerted concentration-dependent inhibition of ex vivo myometrial contractions and that neither mundulone or MA affected vasoreactivity of ductus arteriosus, a major fetal off-target of current tocolytics. A high-throughput combination screen of in vitro intracellular Ca 2+ -mobilization identified that mundulone exhibits synergism with two clinical-tocolytics (atosiban and nifedipine), and MA displayed synergistic efficacy with nifedipine. Of these synergistic combinations, mundulone + atosiban demonstrated a favorable in vitro therapeutic index (TI)=10, a substantial improvement compared to TI=0.8 for mundulone alone. The ex vivo and in vivo synergism of mundulone and atosiban was substantiated, yielding greater tocolytic efficacy and potency on isolated mouse and human myometrial tissue and reduced preterm birth rates in a mouse model of PL compared to each single agent. Treatment with mundulone 5hrs after mifepristone administration (and PL induction) dose-dependently delayed the timing of delivery. Importantly, mundulone in combination with atosiban (FR 3.7:1, 6.5mg/kg + 1.75mg/kg) permitted long-term management of PL after induction with 30 μg mifepristone, allowing 71% dams to deliver viable pups at term (> day 19, 4-5 days post-mifepristone exposure) without any visible maternal and fetal consequences. Collectively, these studies provide a strong foundation for the future development of mundulone as a stand-alone single- and/or combination-tocolytic therapy for management of PL.
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Talmon M, Pollastro F, Fresu LG. The Complex Journey of the Calcium Regulation Downstream of TAS2R Activation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223638. [PMID: 36429066 PMCID: PMC9688576 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) have recently arisen as a potential drug target for asthma due to their localization in airway cells. These receptors are expressed in all cell types of the respiratory system comprising epithelial, smooth muscle and immune cells; however, the expression pattern of the subtypes is different in each cell type and, accordingly, so is their role, for example, anti-inflammatory or bronchodilator. The most challenging aspect in studying TAS2Rs has been the identification of the downstream signaling cascades. Indeed, TAS2R activation leads to canonical IP3-dependent calcium release from the ER, but, alongside, there are other mechanisms that differ according to the histological localization. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the cytosolic calcium modulation downstream of TAS2R activation in the epithelial, smooth muscle and immune cells of the airway system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Talmon
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.T.); (L.G.F.); Tel.: +39-0321-660589 (M.T.); +39-0321-660687 (L.G.F.)
| | - Federica Pollastro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Largo Donegani 2/3, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigia Grazia Fresu
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.T.); (L.G.F.); Tel.: +39-0321-660589 (M.T.); +39-0321-660687 (L.G.F.)
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9
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Kang W, Wang Y, Li J, Xie W, Zhao D, Wu L, Wang H, Xie S. TAS2R supports odontoblastic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells in the inflammatory microenvironment. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:374. [PMID: 35902880 PMCID: PMC9331142 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03057-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inflammatory microenvironment promotes odontoblastic differentiation in human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs), but the regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of TAS2R in odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs in the inflammatory microenvironment. Methods Microarray analysis was performed to explore the differential mRNA profiles in inflammatory and healthy pulp tissues from the patients. hDPSCs isolated from the healthy pulp tissues were stimulated by LPS, TNFα and IL-6, respectively, to verify the effect of TAS2R. The expression markers related to odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs were observed by qPCR and chemical staining methods. TAS2R10 was overexpressed or silenced to observe the effect on odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs under LPS stimulation. The G protein and intracellular Ca2+ were detected, respectively, by qPCR and Fluo-4AM Ca2+ fluorescent probe. Results The expression of TAS2R was significantly upregulated in the inflammatory pulp tissues. In vitro, 5 subtypes of TAS2R mRNA expressions including TAS2R10, TAS2R14, TAS2R19, TAS2R30 and TAS2R31 in hDPSCs increased under the stimulation of LPS, TNFα or IL-6. In odontoblastic differentiation medium, we found LPS, TNFα or IL-6 stimulation promoted odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs. TAS2R10 overexpression in hDPSCs significantly increased the expression markers related to odontoblastic differentiation, whereas TAS2R10 silencing revealed the opposite effect. Furthermore, G protein was activated, and at the same time, intracellular Ca2+ enhanced when TAS2R10 was overexpressed, but decreased when TAS2R10 was silenced. Conclusions This study demonstrated that TAS2R was found to be expressed in hDPSCs, and TAS2R promoted odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSCs by mediating the increase in intracellular Ca2+ via the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) conventional signaling pathway in inflammatory microenvironment, which may be a potential target for the development of effective conservative treatments for dental pulp repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Kang
- Department of Endodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yiwen Wang
- Department of Endodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- Department of Endodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Weige Xie
- Department of Endodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Dan Zhao
- Department of Endodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Li Wu
- Department of Endodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Hongwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Sijing Xie
- Department of Endodontics, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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10
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Jeruzal-Świątecka J, Borkowska E, Łaszczych M, Nowicka Z, Pietruszewska W. TAS2R38 Bitter Taste Receptor Expression in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps: New Data on Polypoid Tissue. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137345. [PMID: 35806350 PMCID: PMC9266535 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown differences in TAS2R38 receptor expression in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) compared to healthy controls. Known agonists of TAS2R38 stimulate epithelial cells, leading to robust intracellular nitric oxide (NO) production, which damages bacterial membranes, enzymes, and DNA, but also increases ciliary beat frequency. In this study we examined, using qRT-PCR, the expression of TAS2R38 receptor in nasal polyps (NP) of patients with CRS (N = 107) and in inferior turbinate mucosa (ITM) of patients with CRS and controls (N = 39), and confronted it with clinical features and the severity of the disease. The expression was shown in 43 (50.00%) samples of ITM in the study group (N = 107), in 28 (71.79%) in the control group (N = 39) (p = 0.037), and in 43 (46.24%) of NP. There were no differences in levels of the expression in all analyzed tissues. Patients who rated their symptoms at 0–3 showed higher TAS2R38 expression in ITM in comparison to the patients with 8–10 points on the VAS scale (p = 0.020). A noticeable, however not significant, correlation between the TAS2R38 expression in ITM and the Lund–Mackay CT score was shown (p = 0.068; R = −0.28). Patients with coexisting asthma had significantly higher receptor expression in the NP (p = 0.012). Our study is the first to confirm the presence of the TAS2R38 receptor in NP. Expression of the TAS2R38 receptor is reduced in the sinonasal mucosa in patients with more advanced CRS with NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Jeruzal-Świątecka
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-501-785470
| | - Edyta Borkowska
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Mateusz Łaszczych
- Department of Biostatistics and Translational Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland; (M.Ł.); (Z.N.)
| | - Zuzanna Nowicka
- Department of Biostatistics and Translational Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland; (M.Ł.); (Z.N.)
| | - Wioletta Pietruszewska
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland;
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11
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Grau-Bové C, Grau-Bové X, Terra X, Garcia-Vallve S, Rodríguez-Gallego E, Beltran-Debón R, Blay MT, Ardévol A, Pinent M. Functional and genomic comparative study of the bitter taste receptor family TAS2R: Insight into the role of human TAS2R5. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22175. [PMID: 35107858 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101128rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Bitterness is perceived in humans by 25 subtypes of bitter taste receptors (hTAS2R) that range from broadly tuned to more narrowly tuned receptors. hTAS2R5 is one of the most narrowly tuned bitter taste receptors in humans. In this study, we review the literature on this receptor and show there is no consensus about its role. We then compare the possible role of hTAS2R5 with that of the proteins of the TAS2R family in rat, mouse, and pig. A phylogenetic tree of all mammalian TAS2R domain-containing proteins showed that human hTAS2R5 has no ortholog in pig, mouse, or rat genomes. By comparing the agonists that are common to hTAS2R5 and other members of the family, we observed that hTAS2R39 is the receptor that shares most agonists with hTAS2R5. In mouse, some of these agonists activate mTas2r105 and mTas2r144, which are distant paralogs of hTAS2R5. mTas2r144 seems to be the receptor that is most similar to hTAS2R5 because they are both activated by the same agonists and have affinities in the same range of values. Then, we can conclude that hTAS2R5 has a unique functional specificity in humans as it is activated by selective agonists and that its closest functional homolog in mouse is the phylogenetically distant mTas2r144.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carme Grau-Bové
- MoBioFood Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Xavier Grau-Bové
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ximena Terra
- MoBioFood Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Santi Garcia-Vallve
- Research Group in Cheminformatics & Nutrition, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Esther Rodríguez-Gallego
- MoBioFood Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Raúl Beltran-Debón
- MoBioFood Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - M Teresa Blay
- MoBioFood Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Anna Ardévol
- MoBioFood Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Pinent
- MoBioFood Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
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12
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Liu Y, Na Q, Liu J, Liu A, Oppong A, Lee JY, Chudnovets A, Lei J, Sharma R, Kannan S, Kannan RM, Burd I. Dendrimer-Based N-Acetyl Cysteine Maternal Therapy Ameliorates Placental Inflammation via Maintenance of M1/M2 Macrophage Recruitment. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:819593. [PMID: 35155393 PMCID: PMC8831692 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.819593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine inflammation (IUI) is the primary cause of spontaneous preterm birth and predisposes neonates to long-term sequelae, including adverse neurological outcomes. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is the amino acid L-cysteine derivative and a precursor to the antioxidant glutathione (GSH). NAC is commonly used clinically as an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Poor bioavailability and high protein binding of NAC necessitates the use of high doses resulting in side effects including nausea, vomiting, and gastric disruptions. Therefore, dendrimer-based therapy can specifically target the drug to the cells involved in inflammation, reducing side effects with efficacy at much lower doses than the free drug. Towards development of the new therapies for the treatment of maternal inflammation, we successfully administered dendrimer-based N-Acetyl Cysteine (DNAC) in an animal model of IUI to reduce preterm birth and perinatal inflammatory response. This study explored the associated immune mechanisms of DNAC treatment on placental macrophages following IUI, especially on M1/M2 type macrophage polarization. Our results demonstrated that intraperitoneal maternal DNAC administration significantly reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA of Il1β and Nos2, and decreased CD45+ leukocyte infiltration in the placenta following IUI. Furthermore, we found that DNAC altered placental immune profile by stimulating macrophages to change to the M2 phenotype while decreasing the M1 phenotype, thus suppressing the inflammatory responses in the placenta. Our study provides evidence for DNAC therapy to alleviate IUI via the maintenance of macrophage M1/M2 imbalance in the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Quan Na
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jin Liu
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Anguo Liu
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Akosua Oppong
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ji Yeon Lee
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Anna Chudnovets
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jun Lei
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rishi Sharma
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Sujatha Kannan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rangaramanujam M Kannan
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Irina Burd
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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13
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Jalševac F, Terra X, Rodríguez-Gallego E, Beltran-Debón R, Blay MT, Pinent M, Ardévol A. The Hidden One: What We Know About Bitter Taste Receptor 39. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:854718. [PMID: 35345470 PMCID: PMC8957101 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.854718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Over thousands of years of evolution, animals have developed many ways to protect themselves. One of the most protective ways to avoid disease is to prevent the absorption of harmful components. This protective function is a basic role of bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs), a G protein-coupled receptor family, whose presence in extraoral tissues has intrigued many researchers. In humans, there are 25 TAS2Rs, and although we know a great deal about some of them, others are still shrouded in mystery. One in this latter category is bitter taste receptor 39 (TAS2R39). Besides the oral cavity, it has also been found in the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory, nervous and reproductive systems. TAS2R39 is a relatively non-selective receptor, which means that it can be activated by a range of mostly plant-derived compounds such as theaflavins, catechins and isoflavones. On the other hand, few antagonists for this receptor are available, since only some flavones have antagonistic properties (all of them detailed in the document). The primary role of TAS2R39 is to sense the bitter components of food and protect the organism from harmful compounds. There is also some indication that this bitter taste receptor regulates enterohormones and in turn, regulates food intake. In the respiratory system, it may be involved in the congestion process of allergic rhinitis and may stimulate inflammatory cytokines. However, more thorough research is needed to determine the precise role of TAS2R39 in these and other tissues.
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14
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Abstract
Bitter taste-sensing type 2 receptors (TAS2Rs or T2Rs), belonging to the subgroup of family A G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), are of crucial importance in the perception of bitterness. Although in the first instance, TAS2Rs were considered to be exclusively distributed in the apical microvilli of taste bud cells, numerous studies have detected these sensory receptor proteins in several extra-oral tissues, such as in pancreatic or ovarian tissues, as well as in their corresponding malignancies. Critical points of extra-oral TAS2Rs biology, such as their structure, roles, signaling transduction pathways, extensive mutational polymorphism, and molecular evolution, have been currently broadly studied. The TAS2R cascade, for instance, has been recently considered to be a pivotal modulator of a number of (patho)physiological processes, including adipogenesis or carcinogenesis. The latest advances in taste receptor biology further raise the possibility of utilizing TAS2Rs as a therapeutic target or as an informative index to predict treatment responses in various disorders. Thus, the focus of this review is to provide an update on the expression and molecular basis of TAS2Rs functions in distinct extra-oral tissues in health and disease. We shall also discuss the therapeutic potential of novel TAS2Rs targets, which are appealing due to their ligand selectivity, expression pattern, or pharmacological profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Tuzim
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Korolczuk
- Department of Clinical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
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15
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Lu P, ElMallah MK, Liu Z, Wu C, Chen J, Lifshitz LM, ZhuGe R. Genetic deletion of the Tas2r143/Tas2r135/Tas2r126 cluster reveals that TAS2Rs may not mediate bitter tastant-induced bronchodilation. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:6407-6423. [PMID: 33559206 PMCID: PMC8223514 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) and their signaling elements are detected throughout the body, and bitter tastants induce a wide variety of biological responses in tissues and organs outside the mouth. However, the roles of TAS2Rs in these responses remain to be tested and established genetically. Here, we employed the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technique to delete three bitter taste receptors-Tas2r143/Tas2r135/Tas2r126 (i.e., Tas2r triple knockout [TKO]) in mice. The fidelity and effectiveness of the Tas2r deletions were validated genetically at DNA and messenger RNA levels and functionally based on the tasting of TAS2R135 and TAS2R126 agonists. Bitter tastants are known to relax airways completely. However, TAS2R135 or TAS2R126 agonists either failed to induce relaxation of pre-contracted airways in wild-type mice and Tas2r TKO mice or relaxed them dose-dependently, but to the same extent in both types of mice. These results indicate that TAS2Rs are not required for bitter tastant-induced bronchodilation. The Tas2r TKO mice also provide a valuable model to resolve whether TAS2Rs mediate bitter tastant-induced responses in many other extraoral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mai K ElMallah
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zeyu Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chan Wu
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lawrence M Lifshitz
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ronghua ZhuGe
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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16
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Next generation strategies for preventing preterm birth. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 174:190-209. [PMID: 33895215 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation. Globally, 15 million infants are born prematurely, putting these children at an increased risk of mortality and lifelong health challenges. Currently in the U.S., there is only one FDA approved therapy for the prevention of preterm birth. Makena is an intramuscular progestin injection given to women who have experienced a premature delivery in the past. Recently, however, Makena failed a confirmatory trial, resulting the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research's (CDER) recommendation for the FDA to withdrawal Makena's approval. This recommendation would leave clinicians with no therapeutic options for preventing PTB. Here, we outline recent interdisciplinary efforts involving physicians, pharmacologists, biologists, chemists, and engineers to understand risk factors associated with PTB, to define mechanisms that contribute to PTB, and to develop next generation therapies for preventing PTB. These advances have the potential to better identify women at risk for PTB, prevent the onset of premature labor, and, ultimately, save infant lives.
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17
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW From single cells to entire organisms, biological entities are in constant communication with their surroundings, deciding what to 'allow' in, and what to reject. In very different ways, the immune and taste systems both fulfill this function, with growing evidence suggesting a relationship between the two, through shared signaling pathways, receptors, and feedback loops. The purpose of this review was to explore recent reports on taste and immunity in model animals and in humans to explore our understanding of the interplay between these systems. RECENT FINDINGS Acute infections in the upper airway, as with SARS-CoV-2, are associated with a proinflammatory state, and blunted taste perception. Further, recent findings highlight taste receptors working as immune sentinels throughout the body. Work in humans and mice also points to inflammation from obesity impacting taste, altering taste bud abundance and composition. There is accumulating evidence that taste cells, and particularly their receptors, play a role in airway and gut immunity, responsive to invading organisms. Inflammation itself may further act on taste buds and other taste receptor expressing cells throughout the body as a form of homeostatic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Goodman
- Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Robin Dando
- Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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18
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Ziegler F, Behrens M. Bitter taste receptors of the common vampire bat are functional and show conserved responses to metal ions in vitro. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20210418. [PMID: 33784867 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.0418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The bitter taste sensation is important to warn mammals of the ingestion of potentially toxic food compounds. For mammals, whose nutrition relies on highly specific food sources, such as blood in the case of vampire bats, it is unknown if bitter sensing is involved in prey selection. By contrast to other bat species, vampire bats exhibit numerous bitter taste receptor pseudogenes, which could point to a decreased importance of bitter taste. However, electrophysiological and behavioural studies suggest the existence of functional bitter taste transmission. To determine the agonist spectra of the three bitter taste receptors that are conserved in all three vampire bat species, we investigated the in vitro activation of Desmodus rotundus T2R1, T2R4 and T2R7. Using a set of 57 natural and synthetic bitter compounds, we were able to identify agonists for all three receptors. Hence, we confirmed a persisting functionality and, consequently, a putative biological role of bitter taste receptors in vampire bats. Furthermore, the activation of the human TAS2R7 by metal ions is shown to be conserved in D. rotundus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Ziegler
- Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Maik Behrens
- Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
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19
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Jeruzal-Świątecka J, Fendler W, Pietruszewska W. Clinical Role of Extraoral Bitter Taste Receptors. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5156. [PMID: 32708215 PMCID: PMC7404188 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans can recognise five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami. Sour and salty substances are linked to ion channels, while sweet, bitter and umami flavours are transmitted through receptors linked to the G protein (G protein-coupled receptors; GPCRs). There are two main types of GPCRs that transmit information about sweet, umami and bitter tastes-the Tas1r and TAS2R families. There are about 25 functional TAS2R genes coding bitter taste receptor proteins. They are found not only in the mouth and throat, but also in the intestines, brain, bladder and lower and upper respiratory tract. The determination of their purpose in these locations has become an inspiration for much research. Their presence has also been confirmed in breast cancer cells, ovarian cancer cells and neuroblastoma, revealing a promising new oncological marker. Polymorphisms of TAS2R38 have been proven to have an influence on the course of chronic rhinosinusitis and upper airway defensive mechanisms. TAS2R receptors mediate the bronchodilatory effect in human airway smooth muscle, which may lead to the creation of another medicine group used in asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The discovery that functionally compromised TAS2R receptors negatively impact glucose homeostasis has produced a new area of diabetes research. In this article, we would like to focus on what facts have been already established in the matter of extraoral TAS2R receptors in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Jeruzal-Świątecka
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Wojciech Fendler
- Department of Biostatistics and Translational Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland;
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wioletta Pietruszewska
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland;
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20
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Luo M, Yu P, Ni K, Jin Y, Liu L, Li J, Pan Y, Deng L. Sanguinarine Rapidly Relaxes Rat Airway Smooth Muscle Cells Dependent on TAS2R Signaling. Biol Pharm Bull 2020; 43:1027-1034. [PMID: 32404582 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b19-00825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Excessive contraction of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) is a hallmark feature of asthma. Intriguing, the activation of bitter taste receptor (TAS2R) in ASMCs can relax ASMCs. However, there is a lack of potent TAS2R agonists that can be used in asthma therapies since those tested agonists cannot relax ASMCs at the dose below a few hundred micromolar. Considering that sanguinarine (SA) is a bitter substance often used in small doses for the treatment of asthma in folk medicine, the present study was to determine the rapid relaxation effect of SA on ASMCs and to reveal the underlying mechanisms associated with TAS2R signaling. Here, cell stiffness, traction force, calcium signaling, cAMP levels, and the mRNA expression were evaluated by using optical magnetic twisting cytometry, traction force microscopy, Fluo-4/AM labeling, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and quantitative (q)RT-PCR, respectively. We found that 0.5 µM SA immediately decreased cell stiffness and traction force, which is comparable with the effect of 5 µM isoproterenol. In addition, 0.5 µM SA immediately increased intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) and decreased the mRNA expression of contractile proteins such as calponin and α-smooth muscle actin after the treatment for 24 h. Furthermore, SA-mediated decrease in cell stiffness/traction force and increase in [Ca2+]i were significantly blunted by inhibiting the TAS2Rs signaling. These findings establish the rapid relaxation effect of SA at low concentration (<1 µM) on cultured ASMCs depending on TAS2R signaling, indicating that SA might be developed as a useful bronchodilator in asthma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhi Luo
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University
| | - Peili Yu
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University
| | - Kai Ni
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University
| | - Yang Jin
- Key Lab of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University
| | - Lei Liu
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University
| | - Jingjing Li
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University
| | - Yan Pan
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University
| | - Linhong Deng
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University
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21
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Bloxham CJ, Foster SR, Thomas WG. A Bitter Taste in Your Heart. Front Physiol 2020; 11:431. [PMID: 32457649 PMCID: PMC7225360 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00431] [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: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The human genome contains ∼29 bitter taste receptors (T2Rs), which are responsible for detecting thousands of bitter ligands, including toxic and aversive compounds. This sentinel function varies between individuals and is underpinned by naturally occurring T2R polymorphisms, which have also been associated with disease. Recent studies have reported the expression of T2Rs and their downstream signaling components within non-gustatory tissues, including the heart. Though the precise role of T2Rs in the heart remains unclear, evidence points toward a role in cardiac contractility and overall vascular tone. In this review, we summarize the extra-oral expression of T2Rs, focusing on evidence for expression in heart; we speculate on the range of potential ligands that may activate them; we define the possible signaling pathways they activate; and we argue that their discovery in heart predicts an, as yet, unappreciated cardiac physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor J Bloxham
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Simon R Foster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Walter G Thomas
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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22
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Peng Y, Zheng X, Fan Z, Zhou H, Zhu X, Wang G, Liu Z. Paeonol alleviates primary dysmenorrhea in mice via activating CB2R in the uterus. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 68:153151. [PMID: 32058234 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.153151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Primary dysmenorrhea is the most common gynaecologic problem in menstruating women and is characterized by spasmodic uterine contraction and pain symptoms associated with inflammatory disturbances. Paeonol is an active phytochemical component that has shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in several animal models. The aim of this study was to explore whether paeonol is effective against dysmenorrhea and to investigate the potential mechanism of cannabinoid receptor signalling. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Dysmenorrhea was established by injecting oestradiol benzoate into female mice. The effects of paeonol on writhing time and latency, uterine pathology and inflammatory mediators were explored. Isolated uterine smooth muscle was used to evaluate the direct effect of paeonol on uterine contraction. KEY RESULTS The oral administration of paeonol reduced dysmenorrhea pain and PGE2 and TNF-α expression in the uterine tissues of mice, and paeonol was found to be distributed in lesions of the uterus. Paeonol almost completely inhibited oxytocin-, high potassium- and Ca2+-induced contractions in isolated uteri. Antagonists of CB2R (AM630) and the MAPK pathway (U0126), but not of CB1R (AM251), reversed the inhibitory effect of paeonol on uterine contraction. Paeonol significantly blocked L-type Ca2+ channels and calcium influx in uterine smooth muscle cells via CB2R. Molecular docking results showed that paeonol fits well with the binding site of CB2R. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Paeonol partially acts through CB2R to restrain calcium influx and uterine contraction to alleviate dysmenorrhea in mice. These results suggest that paeonol has therapeutic potential for the treatment of dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Xiao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Zhiyi Fan
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Hongliang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Xuanxuan Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China.
| | - Zhihui Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China.
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Welcome MO. The bitterness of genitourinary infections: Properties, ligands of genitourinary bitter taste receptors and mechanisms linking taste sensing to inflammatory processes in the genitourinary tract. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 247:101-110. [PMID: 32088528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though, first identified in the gastrointestinal tract, bitter taste receptors are now believed to be ubiquitously expressed in several regions of the body, including the respiratory tract, where they play a critical role in sensing and clearance of excess metabolic substrates, toxins, debris, and pathogens. More recently, bitter taste receptor expression has been reported in cells, tissues and organs of the genitourinary (GU) system, suggesting that these receptors may play an integral role in mediating inflammatory responses to microbial aggression in the GU tract. However, the mechanisms, linking bitter taste receptor sensing with inflammatory responses are not exactly clear. Here, I review recent data on the properties and ligands of bitter taste receptors and suggest mechanisms of bitter taste receptor signaling in the GU tract, and the molecular pathways that link taste sensing to inflammatory responses in GU tract. METHOD Computer-aided search was conducted in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar for relevant peer-reviewed articles published between 1990 and 2018, investigating the functional implication of bitter taste receptors in GU infections, using the following keywords: extra-oral bitter taste receptors, bitter taste receptors, GU bitter taste receptors, kidney OR renal OR ureteral OR urethral OR bladder OR detrusor smooth muscle OR testes OR spermatozoa OR prostate OR vaginal OR cervix OR ovarian OR endometrial OR myometrial OR placenta OR cutaneous bitter taste receptors. To identify research gaps on etiopathogenesis of GU infections/inflammation, additional search was conducted using the following keywords: GU inflammatory signaling, GU microbes, GU bacteria, GU virus, GU protozoa, GU microbial metabolites, and GU infection. The retrieved articles were filtered and further screened for relevance according to the aim of the study. A narrative review was performed for selected literatures. RESULTS Bitter taste receptors of the GU tract may constitute essential components of the pathogenetic mechanisms of GU infections/inflammation that are activated by microbial components, known as quorum sensing signal molecules. Based on accumulating evidences, indicating that taste receptors may signal downstream to activate inflammatory cascades, in addition to the nitric oxide-induced microbicidal effects produced upon taste receptor activation, it is suggested that the anti-inflammatory activities of bitter taste receptor stimulation are mediated via pathways involving the nuclear factor κB by downstream signaling of the metabolic and stress sensors, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (sirtuin 1), resulting to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, and antimicrobial factors, which ultimately, under normal conditions, leads to the elimination of microbial aggression. CONCLUSIONS GU bitter taste receptors may represent critical players in GU tract infections/inflammation. Bitter taste receptors may serve as important therapeutic target for treatment of a number of infectious diseases that affect the GU tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menizibeya O Welcome
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria.
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Denatonium as a bitter taste receptor agonist damages jejunal epithelial cells of yellow-feathered chickens via inducing apoptosis. Animal 2019; 14:1223-1233. [PMID: 31840624 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731119002994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The sense of bitter taste is critical for chickens to acquire and select feeds. It is important to understand the roles and mechanisms of bitter taste transduction in chickens. Denatonium is extensively used as a bitter taste receptor agonist to activate bitter taste receptors in recent studies. The objective of this study was to investigate the physiological effects and the potential molecular mechanisms of dietary exposure to a strong bitter taste receptor agonist on the jejunal epithelial cells of yellow-feathered chickens. A total of 240 yellow-feathered chickens were divided into four treatments receiving a normal diet (Control), a low-dose denatonium treatment (Control + 5 mg/kg denatonium), a middle-dose denatonium treatment (Control + 20 mg/kg denatonium) and a high-dose denatonium treatment (Control + 100 mg/kg denatonium) for 56 days, respectively. The results showed that dietary denatonium reduced (P < 0.05) the growth performance of chickens. High-dose denatonium damaged the morphology of the jejunal epithelium and decreased (P < 0.05) the activities of Ca2+-ATPase, sucrase and maltase after 56 days of exposure. Meanwhile, high-dose denatonium increased (P < 0.05) mRNA expressions of bitter taste receptors, which resulted in enhanced apoptosis in jejunal epithelial cells after 56 days of exposure. Furthermore, middle-dose and high-dose denatonium exhibited increased (P < 0.05) mRNA level of claudin 2 and decreased (P < 0.05) mRNA level of occludin after 28 days of exposure. Only high-dose denatonium decreased (P < 0.05) mRNA level of occludin after 56 days of exposure. In conclusion, denatonium manifested deleterious effects on the jejunum of chickens in a dose-effect manner via damaging the morphology of the jejunal epithelium, and inducing apoptosis associated with bitter taste receptors. Our data suggest that bitter-tasting feed additives may have side effects on the growth and development of intestines in chickens.
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25
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The senses of the choroid plexus. Prog Neurobiol 2019; 182:101680. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2019.101680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Canivenc-Lavier MC, Neiers F, Briand L. Plant polyphenols, chemoreception, taste receptors and taste management. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2019; 22:472-478. [PMID: 31490201 DOI: 10.1097/mco.0000000000000595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Polyphenols display beneficial health effects through chemopreventive actions on numerous chronic diseases including cancers, metabolic disorders, reproductive disorders and eating behaviour disorders. According to the principle of chemoreception, polyphenols bind cellular targets capable of accepting their stereochemistry, namely metabolizing enzymes and protein receptors, including taste receptors. The extraoral expression of taste receptors and their pharmacological interest in terms of novel drug therapies open up new perspectives on the potential use of these compounds and their interactions with other chemicals in cells. These new perspectives suggest the need to examine these phytochemicals further. However, most polyphenols have a bitterness property that may disrupt the acceptability of healthy foods or dietary supplements. RECENT FINDINGS Polyphenols bind to oral and extraoral bitter type 2 taste receptors, which modulate the signalling pathways involved in anti-inflammatory processes and metabolic and dietary regulations. Depending on their chemical nature, polyphenols may act as activators or inhibitors of taste receptors, and combinations of polyphenols (or herbal mixtures) may be used to modulate the acceptability of bitterness. SUMMARY The current review summarizes recent findings on polyphenol chemoreception and highlights the evidence of healthy effects through type 2 taste receptor mediation in signalling pathways, such as new targets, with promising perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Chantal Canivenc-Lavier
- Centre des Sciences du GoÛt et de l'Alimentation (CSGA), INRA, Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté, AgroSup, CNRS, Dijon, France
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Denatonium Benzoate-Induces Oxidative Stress in the Heart and Kidney of Chinese Fast Yellow Chickens by Regulating Apoptosis, Autophagy, Antioxidative Activities and Bitter Taste Receptor Gene Expressions. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9090701. [PMID: 31546822 PMCID: PMC6770773 DOI: 10.3390/ani9090701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Denatonium benzoate is a strong bitter taste receptor agonist, extensively used for its activation of different cell pathways. Taste signals have been associated to food recognition and avoidance, and bitter taste provokes an aversive reaction and is assumed to protect chickens from consuming poisons and harmful toxic substances. The results of the study revealed that dietary supplementation with medium and high doses of denatonium benzoate damaged the epithelial cells of the heart and kidneys by inducing apoptosis and autophagy and reduced the growth of chickens, respectively. However, mRNA expressions of bitter taste receptors, downstream signaling effector genes, apoptosis-, autophagy- and antioxidant-related genes were higher on day 7, while these expressions were subsequently decreased on day-28 in the heart and kidney of Chinese Fast Yellow chickens in a dose-response manner. Abstract The sense of taste which tells us which prospective foods are nutritious, poisonous and harmful is essential for the life of the organisms. Denatonium benzoate (DB) is a bitter taste agonist known for its activation of bitter taste receptors in different cells. The aim of the current study was to investigate the mRNA expressions of bitter taste, downstream signaling effectors, apoptosis-, autophagy- and antioxidant-related genes and effector signaling pathways in the heart/kidney of chickens after DB dietary exposure. We randomly assigned 240, 1-day-old Chinese Fast Yellow chicks into four groups with five replicates of 12 chicks and studied them for 28 consecutive days. The dietary treatments consisted of basal diet and feed containing DB (5, 20 and 100 mg/kg). The results revealed that dietary DB impaired (p < 0.05) the growth performance of the chickens. Haemotoxylin and eosin staining and TUNEL assays confirmed that medium and high doses of DB damaged the epithelial cells of heart/kidney and induced apoptosis and autophagy. Remarkably, the results of RT-PCR and qRT-PCR indicated that different doses of DB gradually increased (p < 0.05) mRNA expressions of bitter taste, signaling effectors, apoptosis-, autophagy- and antioxidant- related genes on day 7 in a dose-response manner, while, these expressions were decreased (p < 0.05) subsequently by day-28 but exceptional higher (P < 0.05) expressions were observed in the high-dose DB groups of chickens. In conclusion, DB exerts adverse effects on the heart/kidney of chickens in a dose-response manner via damaging the epithelium of the heart/kidney by inducing apoptosis, autophagy associated with bitter taste and effector gene expressions. Correlation analyses for apoptosis/autophagy showed agonistic relationships. Our data provide a novel perspective for understanding the interaction of bitter taste, apoptosis, autophagy and antioxidative genes with bitter taste strong activators in the heart/kidney of chicken. These insights might help the feed industries and pave the way toward innovative directions in chicken husbandry.
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28
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Shaik FA, Jaggupilli A, Chelikani P. Highly conserved intracellular H208 residue influences agonist selectivity in bitter taste receptor T2R14. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2019; 1861:183057. [PMID: 31493373 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2019.183057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) are a specialized class of cell membrane receptors of the G protein-coupled receptor family and perform a crucial role in chemosensation. The 25 T2Rs in humans are activated by structurally diverse ligands of plant, animal and microbial origin. The mechanisms of activation of these receptors are poorly understood. Therefore, identification of structural determinants of T2Rs that regulate its efficacy could be beneficial in understanding the molecular mechanisms of T2R activation. In this work, we characterized a highly conserved histidine (H208), present at TM5-ICL3 region of T2R14 and its role in agonist-induced T2R14 signaling. Surprisingly, mutation of the conserved H208 (H208A) did not result in increased basal activity of T2R14, in contrast to similar H206A mutation in T2R4 that showed constitutive or basal activity. However, H208A mutation in T2R14 resulted in an increase in agonist-induced efficacy for Flufenamic acid (FFA). Interestingly, H208A did not affect the potency of another T2R14 agonist Diphenhydramine (DPH). The H208R compensatory mutation showed FFA response similar to wild-type T2R14. Molecular modeling suggests a FFA-induced shift in TM3 and TM5 helices of H208A, which changes the network of interactions connecting TM5-ICL3-TM6. This report identifies a crucial residue on the intracellular surface of T2Rs that is involved in bitter ligand selectivity. It also highlights the varied roles carried out by some conserved residues in different T2Rs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feroz Ahmed Shaik
- Manitoba Chemosensory Biology Research Group, Department of Oral Biology, University of Manitoba, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Appalaraju Jaggupilli
- Manitoba Chemosensory Biology Research Group, Department of Oral Biology, University of Manitoba, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Prashen Chelikani
- Manitoba Chemosensory Biology Research Group, Department of Oral Biology, University of Manitoba, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
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Luo M, Ni K, Jin Y, Yu Z, Deng L. Toward the Identification of Extra-Oral TAS2R Agonists as Drug Agents for Muscle Relaxation Therapies via Bioinformatics-Aided Screening of Bitter Compounds in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Front Physiol 2019; 10:861. [PMID: 31379593 PMCID: PMC6647893 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant advances have been made in the past decade in mapping the distributions and the physiological functions of extra-oral bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) in non-gustatory tissues. In particular, it has been found that TAS2Rs are expressed in various muscle tissues and activation of TAS2Rs can lead to muscle cell relaxation, which suggests that TAS2Rs may be important new targets in muscle relaxation therapy for various muscle-related diseases. So far, however, there is a lack of potent extra-oral TAS2R agonists that can be used as novel drug agents in muscle relaxation therapies. Interestingly, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) often characterizes a drug’s property in terms of five distinct flavors (bitter, sweet, sour, salty, and pungent) according to its taste and function, and commonly regards “bitterness” as an intrinsic property of “good medicine.” In addition, many bitter flavored TCM are known in practice to cause muscle relaxation after long term use, and in lab experiments the compounds identified from some bitter flavored TCM do activate TAS2Rs and thus relax muscle cells. Therefore, it is highly possible to discover very useful extra-oral TAS2R agonists for muscle relaxation therapies among the abundant bitter compounds used in bitter flavored TCM. With this perspective, we reviewed in literature the distribution of TAS2Rs in different muscle systems with a focus on the map of bitter flavored TCM which can regulate muscle contractility and related functional chemical components. We also reviewed the recently established databases of TCM chemical components and the bioinformatics software which can be used for high-throughput screening and data mining of the chemical components associated with bitter flavored TCM. All together, we aim to present a knowledge-based approach and technological platform for identification or discovery of extra-oral TAS2R agonists that can be used as novel drug agents for muscle relaxation therapies through screening and evaluation of chemical compounds used in bitter flavored TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhi Luo
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University, Changzhou, China
| | - Kai Ni
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University, Changzhou, China
| | - Yang Jin
- Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zifan Yu
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University, Changzhou, China
| | - Linhong Deng
- Changzhou Key Laboratory of Respiratory Medical Engineering, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences, Changzhou University, Changzhou, China
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Behrens M, Redel U, Blank K, Meyerhof W. The human bitter taste receptor TAS2R7 facilitates the detection of bitter salts. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 512:877-881. [PMID: 30928101 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.03.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The human sense of taste is devoted to the analysis of the chemical composition of food prior to ingestion. Among the five basic taste qualities bitter taste perception is believed to avoid ingestion of potentially toxic substances. The receptors facilitating the detection of hundreds of chemically different bitter compounds belong to the taste 2 receptor (TAS2R) family, which are part of the G protein-coupled superfamily. Although the chemical classes of bitter compounds that have been identified as agonists of one of the 25 potentially functional human bitter taste receptors cover an enormous chemical space, one distinct group of bitter compounds, the bitter salts have not been assigned to any bitter taste receptor. To close this gap, we screened the entire human bitter taste receptor repertoire by functional calcium mobilization assays with the most famous bitter salt, magnesium sulfate, also known as Epsom salt. Although the profound pharmacological activity and the bitter taste of spring water containing magnesium sulfate has been known since 1697, the molecular basis for its taste has not been elucidated until now. Our screening resulted in the identification of a single receptor, the TAS2R7, responding to magnesium sulfate at concentrations humans perceive this salt as bitter. Subsequently, TAS2R7 was stimulated with other salts and it was found that this receptor also responds to manganese2+ and iron2+ ions, but not to potassium ions. Magnesium sulfate is known to exert a number of beneficial effects on the human body and thus, has been used as medicine against premature uterine contractions, as anti-arrhythmic drug and as laxative, however, magnesium sulfate overdosage can result in cardiac arrest and thus have fatal consequences. Therefore, it appears reasonable that nature placed TAS2R7 as sentinel for high concentrations of bitter salts on our tongues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maik Behrens
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany; Leibniz-Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Lise-Meitner-Straße 34, 85354 Freising, Germany.
| | - Ulrike Redel
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany
| | - Kristina Blank
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Meyerhof
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany; Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße 100, 66421 Homburg, Germany
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Fasunla AJ, Nwankwo U, Onakoya PA, Oladokun A, Nwaorgu OG. Gustatory Function of Pregnant and Nonpregnant Women in a Tertiary Health Institution. EAR, NOSE & THROAT JOURNAL 2019; 98:143-148. [PMID: 30864460 DOI: 10.1177/0145561319833914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Physiological changes in pregnancy may cause taste dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine and compare gustatory function of pregnant women with nonpregnant women and also to investigate the effect of pregnancy on gustatory function. It was a case-control study of consecutive 70 healthy pregnant women (cases) and 70 healthy nonpregnant women (control). Participants scored their taste perception on a visual analogue scale (1-10) and their gustatory function was assessed using "taste strips" impregnated with graded concentration of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter taste substances applied on tongue surfaces. Subjective mean gustatory score, correct identification of taste in the strips and total taste strip (TTS) score were compared between both groups and analysis was done using appropriate statistics. The mean age of pregnant women (30.5 [3.9]) and controls (28.5 [6.6]) were comparable. Twenty-one (30%) pregnant women changed their diet in first trimester due to change in taste sensation. Almost all cases developed craving for spicy and salty foods and, aversions to fish, beans, and vegetables. There was a significant difference in the subjective rating of taste perception between the 2 groups ( P = .037). About 2.9% of pregnant women have hypogeusia. There was a significant difference between pregnant and nonpregnant women in sour taste ( P = .006; 2.90 [0.71] vs 3.92 [0.82]) and TTS ( P = .02; 27.50 [3.48] vs 29.21 [2.69]) scores, respectively. In conclusion, gustatory function was reduced in pregnancy compared to nonpregnant women and this led to dietary change in some pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayotunde James Fasunla
- 1 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Ukamaka Nwankwo
- 1 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Paul Adekunle Onakoya
- 1 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adesina Oladokun
- 2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Onyekwere George Nwaorgu
- 1 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Shaw L, Mansfield C, Colquitt L, Lin C, Ferreira J, Emmetsberger J, Reed DR. Personalized expression of bitter 'taste' receptors in human skin. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205322. [PMID: 30332676 PMCID: PMC6192714 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The integumentary (i.e., skin) and gustatory systems both function to protect the human body and are a first point of contact with poisons and pathogens. These systems may share a similar protective mechanism because, as we show here, both human taste and skin cells express mRNA for bitter ‘taste’ receptors (TAS2Rs). We used gene-specific methods to measure mRNA from all known bitter receptor genes in adult human skin from freshly biopsied samples and from samples collected at autopsy from the Genotype-Tissue Expression project. Human skin expressed some but not all TAS2Rs, and for those that were expressed, the relative amounts differed markedly among individuals. For some TAS2Rs, mRNA abundance was related to presumed sun exposure based on the location from which the skin sample was collected (TAS2R14, TAS2R30, TAS2R42, and TAS2R60), sex (TAS2R3, TAS2R4, TAS2R8, TAS2R9, TAS2R14, and TAS2R60), and age (TAS2R5), although these effects were not large. These findings contribute to our understanding of extraoral expression of chemosensory receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Shaw
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Corrine Mansfield
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Lauren Colquitt
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Cailu Lin
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Jaime Ferreira
- Estee Lauder Companies, Inc., Melville, NY, United States of America
| | | | - Danielle R. Reed
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Witkamp RF, van Norren K. Let thy food be thy medicine….when possible. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 836:102-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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Grinevich V, Stoop R. Interplay between Oxytocin and Sensory Systems in the Orchestration of Socio-Emotional Behaviors. Neuron 2018; 99:887-904. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Revised: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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