1
|
Leal AF, Suarez DA, Echeverri-Peña OY, Albarracín SL, Alméciga-Díaz CJ, Espejo-Mojica ÁJ. Sphingolipids and their role in health and disease in the central nervous system. Adv Biol Regul 2022; 85:100900. [PMID: 35870382 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2022.100900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipids (SLs) are lipids derived from sphingosine, and their metabolism involves a broad and complex network of reactions. Although SLs are widely distributed in the body, it is well known that they are present in high concentrations within the central nervous system (CNS). Under physiological conditions, their abundance and distribution in the CNS depend on brain development and cell type. Consequently, SLs metabolism impairment may have a significant impact on the normal CNS function, and has been associated with several disorders, including sphingolipidoses, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's. This review summarizes the main SLs characteristics and current knowledge about synthesis, catabolism, regulatory pathways, and their role in physiological and pathological scenarios in the CNS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Felipe Leal
- Institute for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C, Colombia
| | - Diego A Suarez
- Institute for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C, Colombia
| | - Olga Yaneth Echeverri-Peña
- Institute for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C, Colombia
| | - Sonia Luz Albarracín
- Nutrition and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C, Colombia
| | - Carlos Javier Alméciga-Díaz
- Institute for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C, Colombia.
| | - Ángela Johana Espejo-Mojica
- Institute for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá D.C, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nociceptin Increases Antioxidant Expression in the Kidney, Liver and Brain of Diabetic Rats. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10070621. [PMID: 34356475 PMCID: PMC8301093 DOI: 10.3390/biology10070621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Nociceptin (NC) is a small peptide implicated in the physiology of pain, learning and memory. Here we investigated the role of NC in the induction of antioxidants in the kidney, liver, and the brain of diabetic rats using morphological and biochemical methods. Normal and diabetic animals were treated with NC for 5 days. Catalase (CAT) was expressed in the kidney, liver, and the neurons of the brain. Although CAT was markedly (p < 0.05) lower in the tubules of the kidney of normal and diabetic animals after NC treatment, NC significantly (p < 0.001) increased the presence of CAT in the liver and brain of diabetic rats. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was observed in kidney tubules, hepatocytes, and neurons of the brain. Treatment with NC markedly (p < 0.001) increased the level of SOD in hepatocytes and neurons of the brain. Glutathione reductase (GRED) was seen in the convoluted tubules of the kidney, hepatocytes and neurons of the brain. Treatment with NC markedly increased (p < 0.001) the expression of GRED in kidney tubules, hepatocytes and neurons of the brain. In conclusion, NC can help diabetic patients mitigate the effects of oxidative stress by its ability to induce endogenous antioxidants. Abstract Nociceptin (NC) consists of 17 amino acids (aa) and takes part in the processing of learning and memory. The role of NC in the induction of endogenous antioxidants in still unclear. We examined the effect of NC on the expression of endogenous antioxidants in kidney, liver, cerebral cortex (CC), and hippocampus after the onset of diabetes mellitus, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemistry. Exogenous NC (aa chain 1–17; 10 µg/kg body weight) was given intraperitoneally to normal and diabetic rats for 5 days. Our results showed that catalase (CAT) is present in the proximal (PCT) and distal (DCT) convoluted tubules of kidney, hepatocytes, and neurons of CC and hippocampus. The expression of CAT was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in the kidney of normal and diabetic rats after treatment with NC. However, NC markedly (p < 0.001) increased the expression CAT in the liver and neurons of CC of diabetic rats. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is widely distributed in the PCT and DCT of kidney, hepatocytes, and neurons of CC and hippocampus. NC significantly (p < 0.001) increased the expression of SOD in hepatocytes and neurons of CC and the hippocampus but not in the kidney. Glutathione reductase (GRED) was observed in kidney tubules, hepatocytes and neurons of the brain. NC markedly increased (p < 0.001) the expression of GRED in PCT and DCT cells of the kidney and hepatocytes of liver and neurons of CC. In conclusion, NC is a strong inducer of CAT, SOD, and GRED expression in the kidney, liver and brain of diabetic rats.
Collapse
|
3
|
Dib P, Zhang Y, Ihnat MA, Gallucci RM, Standifer KM. TNF-Alpha as an Initiator of Allodynia and Anxiety-Like Behaviors in a Preclinical Model of PTSD and Comorbid Pain. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:721999. [PMID: 34512420 PMCID: PMC8424009 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.721999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health disorder that occurs after exposure to a traumatic event. Patients with comorbid chronic pain experience affective distress, worse quality of life, and poorer responses to treatments for pain or PTSD than those with either condition alone. FDA-approved PTSD treatments are often ineffective analgesics, requiring additional drugs to treat co-morbid symptoms. Therefore, development of new treatment strategies necessitate a better understanding of the pathophysiology of PTSD and comorbid pain. The single prolonged stress (SPS) model of PTSD induces the development of persistent mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. Increased Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) levels in serum and CSF accompany these exaggerated nociceptive responses, as well as increased serum levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). Therefore, the primary goal was to determine the role of TNF-α in the development of SPS-induced allodynia/hyperalgesia and elevated serum and CNS N/OFQ using two approaches: TNF-α synthesis inhibition, and blockade with anti-TNF-α antibody that acts primarily in the periphery. Administration of TNF-α synthesis blocker, thalidomide (THL), immediately after SPS prevented increased TNF-α and development of allodynia and hyperalgesia. The THL effect lasted at least 21 days, well after thalidomide treatment ended (day 5). THL also prevented SPS-induced increases in serum N/OFQ and reversed regional N/OFQ mRNA expression changes in the CNS. Serum TNF-α increases detected at 4 and 24 h post SPS were not accompanied by blood brain barrier disruption. A single injection of anti-TNF-α antibody to male and female rats during the SPS procedure prevented the development of allodynia, hyperalgesia, and elevated serum N/OFQ, and reduced SPS-induced anxiety-like behaviors in males. Anti-TNFα treatment also blocked development of SPS-induced allodynia in females, and blocked increased hypothalamic N/OFQ in males and females. This suggests that a peripheral TNF-α surge is necessary for the initiation of allodynia associated with SPS, as well as the altered central and peripheral N/OFQ that maintains nociceptive sensitivity. Therefore, early alleviation of TNF-α provides new therapeutic options for investigation as future PTSD and co-morbid pain treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Dib
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Michael A Ihnat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Randle M Gallucci
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States.,Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fulford AJ, Keskes S. Limbic circuit connectivity and the stress response: New insights into the mammalian nociceptin peptide system. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2019; 111:131-145. [PMID: 31421698 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2019.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Considerable progress has been made in understanding the neurobehavioral effects of nociceptin peptide (N/OFQ) and its NOP receptor. Recent interest has focused on its role in stress and cognition, with consideration of therapeutic potential in regard to anxiety and mood disorders. Research has interrogated the mechanisms of action of N/OFQ peptide in the context of stress-related behavior. We are interested in the endogenous role of N/OFQ and NOP receptor in terms of adaptation to chronic stress. Our research has highlighted the importance of associated limbic regions including the bed nucleus, extended amygdala, in addition to thalamic reticular nucleus as important sites for long-term adaptations in endogenous N/OFQ function in chronic stress. Such research raises interest in appreciation of extended limbic connections and novel pathways which allow us to reevaluate current understanding of stress neurocircuitry. Examination of endogenous N/OFQ-NOP receptor modulation of monoaminergic and amino acid transmitter systems in this extended limbic architecture will facilitate deeper understanding of the tonic control of behavior. Application of in vivo experimental approaches to models of abnormal neurodevelopment and heightened stress vulnerability in adulthood will enable the role of N/OFQ in complex neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder to be defined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Keskes
- Centre for Applied Anatomy, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom; Keele University Medical School, Keele, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kadhim S, Bird MF, Lambert DG. N/OFQ-NOP System in Peripheral and Central Immunomodulation. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2019; 254:297-311. [PMID: 30771012 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Classical opioids (μ: mu, MOP; δ: delta, DOP and κ: kappa, KOP) variably affect immune function; they are immune depressants and there is good clinical evidence in the periphery. In addition, there is evidence for a central role in the control of a number of neuropathologies, e.g., neuropathic pain. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is the endogenous ligand for the N/OFQ peptide receptor, NOP; peripheral and central activation can modulate immune function. In the periphery, NOP activation generally depresses immune function, but unlike classical opioids this is in part driven by NOP located on circulating immune cells. Peripheral activation has important implications in pathologies like asthma and sepsis. NOP is expressed on central neurones and glia where activation can modulate glial function. Microglia, as resident central 'macrophages', increase/infiltrate in pain and following trauma; these changes can be reduced by N/OFQ. Moreover, the interaction with other glial cell types such as the ubiquitous astrocytes and their known cross talk with microglia open a wealth of possibilities for central immunomodulation. At the whole animal level, clinical ligands with wide central and peripheral distribution have the potential to modulate immune function, and defining the precise nature of that interaction is important in mitigating or even harnessing the adverse effect profile of these important drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salim Kadhim
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - Mark F Bird
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | - David G Lambert
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia Critical Care and Pain Management, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Astrocytes are neural cells of ectodermal, neuroepithelial origin that provide for homeostasis and defense of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous in morphological appearance; they express a multitude of receptors, channels, and membrane transporters. This complement underlies their remarkable adaptive plasticity that defines the functional maintenance of the CNS in development and aging. Astrocytes are tightly integrated into neural networks and act within the context of neural tissue; astrocytes control homeostasis of the CNS at all levels of organization from molecular to the whole organ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Verkhratsky A, Nedergaard M. Physiology of Astroglia. Physiol Rev 2018; 98:239-389. [PMID: 29351512 PMCID: PMC6050349 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00042.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 899] [Impact Index Per Article: 149.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are neural cells of ectodermal, neuroepithelial origin that provide for homeostasis and defense of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous in morphological appearance; they express a multitude of receptors, channels, and membrane transporters. This complement underlies their remarkable adaptive plasticity that defines the functional maintenance of the CNS in development and aging. Astrocytes are tightly integrated into neural networks and act within the context of neural tissue; astrocytes control homeostasis of the CNS at all levels of organization from molecular to the whole organ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- The University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science , Bilbao , Spain ; Department of Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED, Leioa, Spain ; Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark ; and Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester, New York
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang L, Stuber F, Stamer UM. Inflammatory mediators influence the expression of nociceptin and its receptor in human whole blood cultures. PLoS One 2013; 8:e74138. [PMID: 24066107 PMCID: PMC3774641 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nociceptin/orphanin FQ and its receptor (NOP) are involved in immune responses, inflammation and pain processing. The aim of this study was to investigate the modulation of NOP and prepro-nociceptin (PNoc), the precursor of nociceptin, by inflammatory mediators in human whole blood. METHODS Peripheral blood from healthy volunteers was cultured for 0, 3, 6 and 24 hrs with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10 or interferon (IFN)-γ. NOP and PNoc mRNA of peripheral white blood cells were detected by quantitative RT-PCR. Cytokine concentrations in supernatants of whole blood cultures were measured using ELISA. In addition, an intervention experiment using anti-cytokine antibodies was conducted to evaluate possible mechanisms involved in the modulation of NOP and PNoc by LPS. The primary goal was to investigate NOP and PNoc mRNA expression in human peripheral blood under inflammatory conditions. RESULTS LPS significantly suppressed NOP (median area under the mRNA-expression-time curve (1(st)/3(rd) quartile): 5.4 (4.6/6.6) normalized ratio · hr) and PNoc expression (40.8 (34.4/49.5)) compared to baseline measures (NOP: 22.7 (17.1/25.3); PNoc: 69.9 (58.4/89.2), both p<0.001). LPS incubation induced cytokine concentrations (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10 and IFN-γ) in whole blood cultures. Incubation with TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10 or IFN-γ decreased NOP mRNA levels to varying extents (p<0.05 for all). In contrast, PNoc mRNA expression was decreased by IL-10 only (p = 0.018). The LPS effect on NOP expression could be antagonized by anti-TNF-α and anti-IL-1β, whereas anti-IL-10 and anti-INF-γ had no effect. There was no change of PNoc expression when LPS induced cytokines were antagonized by the respective antibodies. CONCLUSIONS LPS as well as cytokines suppress mainly NOP and, in part, PNoc mRNA expression in human whole blood cultures. This may represent a negative feedback loop to the previously described upregulation of cytokines by PNoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Zhang
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Frank Stuber
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike M. Stamer
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Therapeutic targeting of the ceramide-to-sphingosine 1-phosphate pathway in pain. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2013; 34:110-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2012.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Revised: 12/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
10
|
Armagan G, Bojnik E, Turunc E, Kanit L, Gündüz Çinar O, Benyhe S, Borsodi A, Yalcin A. Kainic acid-induced changes in the opioid/nociceptin system and the stress/toxicity pathways in the rat hippocampus. Neurochem Int 2012; 60:555-64. [PMID: 22382076 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2012.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2011] [Revised: 02/10/2012] [Accepted: 02/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Excitotoxicity is a contributing factor to the pathogenesis of acute or chronic neurodegenerative disease states. Kainic acid (KA) is an excitotoxic substance and the administration of it to rodents induces seizure activity (status epilepticus, SE) and leads to neurodegeneration. In this study the effect of KA-induced excitotoxicity on the G-protein activations and the gene expression levels of the opioid/nociceptin system receptors as MOPr, KOPr, DOPr, ORL-1, and PNOC (N/OFQ) were investigated, and the regulator effect of naloxone (Nal) on the gene expressions of the opioid system receptors against KA-induced seizures in the rat hippocampus was tested. In addition, the expression levels of stress-toxicity genes were assessed in the hippocampus following KA-induced excitotoxicity in order to determine the potential genetic targets which can be helpful for neuroprotective interventions. Our results indicate that the KA-induced excitotoxicity increased the mRNA levels of MOPr, DOPr, KOPr, PNOC, and ORL-1. However, G-protein activations of MOPr, DOPr, and KOPr remained relatively unchanged while both the potency and efficacy of N/OFQ were significantly increased. The PCR array data showed that KA-induced excitotoxicity altered the expression levels of genes in the cellular stress or toxicity pathways. Our data suggests that the induction of the opioid/nociceptin system may be involved in the cellular stress response following a neurodegenerative insult and that the genes modulated by the KA-treatment in the stress-toxicity pathways may be evaluated as targets of potential neuroprotective interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guliz Armagan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, 35100 Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Astrocytes were identified about 150 years ago, and, for the longest time, were considered to be supporting cells in the brain providing trophic, metabolic, and structural support for neural networks. Research in the last 2 decades has uncovered many novel molecules in astrocytes and the finding that astrocytes communicate with neurons via Ca2+ signaling, which leads to release of chemical transmitters, termed gliotransmitters, has led to renewed interest in their biology. This chapter will briefly review the unique morphology and molecular properties of astrocytes. The reader will be introduced to the role of astrocytes in blood-brain barrier (BBB) maintenance, in Ca2+ signaling, in synaptic transmission, in CNS synaptogenesis, and as neural progenitor cells. Mention is also made of the diseases in which astrocyte dysfunction has a role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sukriti Nag
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kirkova M, Zamfirova R, Todorov S, Leśkiewicz M, Kubera M, Lasoń W. Study of the cytotoxicity and antioxidant capacity of N/OFQ(1–13)NH2 and its structural analogues. Pharmacol Rep 2009; 61:1163-72. [DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(09)70179-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2009] [Revised: 11/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
13
|
Liu YY, Yu JY, Yin D, Patwardhan GA, Gupta V, Hirabayashi Y, Holleran WM, Giuliano AE, Jazwinski SM, Gouaze-Andersson V, Consoli DP, Cabot MC. A role for ceramide in driving cancer cell resistance to doxorubicin. FASEB J 2008; 22:2541-51. [PMID: 18245173 DOI: 10.1096/fj.07-092981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Advanced cancers acquire resistance to chemotherapy, and this results in treatment failure. The cellular mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance are not well understood. Here, for the first time, we show that ceramide contributes to cellular resistance to doxorubicin through up-regulating the gene expression of glucosylceramide synthase (GCS). Ceramide, a cellular lipid messenger, modulates doxorubicin-induced cell death. GCS catalyzes ceramide glycosylation, converting ceramide to glucosylceramide; this process hastens ceramide clearance and limits ceramide-induced apoptosis. In the present study, we evaluated the role of the GCS gene in doxorubicin resistance using several paired wild-type and drug-resistant (doxorubicin-selected) cancer cell lines, including breast, ovary, cervical, and colon. GCS was overexpressed in all drug-resistant counterparts, and suppressing GCS overexpression using antisense oligonucleotide restored doxorubicin sensitivity. Characterizing the effect mechanism showed that doxorubicin exposure increased ceramide levels, enhanced GCS expression, and imparted cellular resistance. Exogenous C(6)-ceramide and sphingomyelinase treatments mimicked the influence of doxorubicin on GCS, activating the GCS promoter and up-regulating GCS gene expression. Fumonisin B(1), an inhibitor of ceramide synthesis, significantly suppressed doxorubicin-up-regulated GCS expression. Promoter truncation, point mutation, gel-shift, and protein-DNA ELISA analysis showed that transcription factor Sp1 was essential for ceramide-induced GCS up-regulation. These data indicate that ceramide-governed GCS gene expression drives cellular resistance to doxorubicin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Yu Liu
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Louisiana at Monroe, 700 University Ave., Monroe, LA 71209, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Colombaioni L, Garcia-Gil M. Sphingolipid metabolites in neural signalling and function. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 46:328-55. [PMID: 15571774 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2004.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2004] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Sphingolipid metabolites, such as ceramide, sphingosine, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and complex sphingolipids (gangliosides), are recognized as molecules capable of regulating a variety of cellular processes. The role of sphingolipid metabolites has been studied mainly in non-neuronal tissues. These studies have underscored their importance as signals transducers, involved in control of proliferation, survival, differentiation and apoptosis. In this review, we will focus on studies performed over the last years in the nervous system, discussing the recent developments and the current perspectives in sphingolipid metabolism and functions.
Collapse
|
15
|
Carracedo A, Geelen MJH, Diez M, Hanada K, Guzmán M, Velasco G. Ceramide sensitizes astrocytes to oxidative stress: protective role of cannabinoids. Biochem J 2004; 380:435-40. [PMID: 14979873 PMCID: PMC1224177 DOI: 10.1042/bj20031714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2003] [Revised: 02/09/2004] [Accepted: 02/23/2004] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoids induce apoptosis on glioma cells via stimulation of ceramide synthesis de novo, whereas they do not affect viability of primary astrocytes. In the present study, we show that incubation with Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol did not induce accumulation of ceramide on astrocytes, although incubation of these cells in a serum-free medium (with or without cannabinoids) led to stimulation of ceramide synthesis de novo and sensitization to oxidative stress. Thus treatment with H2O2 induced apoptosis of 5-day-serum-deprived astrocytes and this effect was abrogated by pharmacological blockade of ceramide synthesis de novo. The sensitizing effect of ceramide accumulation may depend on p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation rather than on other ceramide targets. Finally, a protective role of cannabinoids on astrocytes is shown as a long-term incubation with cannabinoids prevented H2O2-induced loss of viability in a CB1 receptor-dependent manner. In summary, our results show that whereas challenge of glioma cells with cannabinoids induces accumulation of de novo -synthesized ceramide and apoptosis, long-term treatment of astrocytes with these compounds does not stimulate this pathway and also abrogates the sensitizing effects of ceramide accumulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arkaitz Carracedo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, School of Biology, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
The term neuropeptide was advanced by de Wied and collaborators in the early seventies. At that time, they defined neuropeptides as endogenous substances synthesized in nerve cells and involved in nervous system functions. Since then, several studies have revealed that the very same 'neuropeptides' are also expressed in non-neuronal cells. It is therefore generally accepted that the original definition of these peptides was too limited and, consequently, it has recently been revised. Among the non-neuronal cells that synthesize neuropeptides are several glial cell types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruud Ubink
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Berzelius väg 1, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
This paper is the twenty-fifth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, now spanning over a quarter-century of research. It summarizes papers published during 2002 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, CUNY, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|