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Dos Santos B, Piermartiri T, Tasca CI. The impact of purine nucleosides on neuroplasticity in the adult brain. Purinergic Signal 2024:10.1007/s11302-024-09988-9. [PMID: 38367178 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-024-09988-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity refers to the nervous system's ability to adapt and reorganize its cell structures and neuronal networks in response to internal and external stimuli. In adults, this process involves neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and synaptic and neurochemical plasticity. Several studies have reported the significant impact of the purinergic system on neuroplasticity modulation. And, there is considerable evidence supporting the role of purine nucleosides, such as adenosine, inosine, and guanosine, in this process. This review presents extensive research on how these nucleosides enhance the neuroplasticity of the adult central nervous system, particularly in response to damage. The mechanisms through which these nucleosides exert their effects involve complex interactions with various receptors and signaling pathways. Adenosine's influence on neurogenesis involves interactions with adenosine receptors, specifically A1R and A2AR. A1R activation appears to inhibit neuronal differentiation and promote astrogliogenesis, while A2AR activation supports neurogenesis, neuritogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. Inosine and guanosine positively impact cell proliferation, neurogenesis, and neuritogenesis. Inosine seems to modulate extracellular adenosine levels, and guanosine might act through interactions between purinergic and glutamatergic systems. Additionally, the review discusses the potential therapeutic implications of purinergic signaling in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases, emphasizing the importance of these nucleosides in the neuroplasticity of brain function and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Dos Santos
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-900, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Tetsade Piermartiri
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-900, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
| | - Carla I Tasca
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, 88040-900, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Neurociências, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
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Nian Y, Hu X, Zhang R, Feng J, Du J, Li F, Bu L, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Tao C. Mining on Alzheimer's diseases related knowledge graph to identity potential AD-related semantic triples for drug repurposing. BMC Bioinformatics 2022; 23:407. [PMID: 36180861 PMCID: PMC9523633 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-022-04934-1] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, there are no effective treatments for most neurodegenerative diseases. Knowledge graphs can provide comprehensive and semantic representation for heterogeneous data, and have been successfully leveraged in many biomedical applications including drug repurposing. Our objective is to construct a knowledge graph from literature to study the relations between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and chemicals, drugs and dietary supplements in order to identify opportunities to prevent or delay neurodegenerative progression. We collected biomedical annotations and extracted their relations using SemRep via SemMedDB. We used both a BERT-based classifier and rule-based methods during data preprocessing to exclude noise while preserving most AD-related semantic triples. The 1,672,110 filtered triples were used to train with knowledge graph completion algorithms (i.e., TransE, DistMult, and ComplEx) to predict candidates that might be helpful for AD treatment or prevention. RESULTS Among three knowledge graph completion models, TransE outperformed the other two (MR = 10.53, Hits@1 = 0.28). We leveraged the time-slicing technique to further evaluate the prediction results. We found supporting evidence for most highly ranked candidates predicted by our model which indicates that our approach can inform reliable new knowledge. CONCLUSION This paper shows that our graph mining model can predict reliable new relationships between AD and other entities (i.e., dietary supplements, chemicals, and drugs). The knowledge graph constructed can facilitate data-driven knowledge discoveries and the generation of novel hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Nian
- School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Xinyue Hu
- School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care & Health System (PCHS) and the Institute for Health Informatics (IHI), University of Minnesota, 7-115A Weaver-Densford Hall, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Jingna Feng
- School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Jingcheng Du
- School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Fang Li
- School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Larry Bu
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W Baltimore St S, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
| | - Yuji Zhang
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W Baltimore St S, Baltimore, MD 21201 USA
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (DBEI), the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 602 Blockley Hall, 423 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19104 USA
| | - Cui Tao
- School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 7000 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
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3
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Allopurinol attenuates postoperative pain and modulates the purinergic system in patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy: a randomized controlled trial. J Anesth 2021; 35:818-826. [PMID: 34390392 DOI: 10.1007/s00540-021-02983-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Allopurinol is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme xanthine oxidase used primarily in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. The aim of this study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of preanesthetic allopurinol versus placebo on postoperative pain and anxiety in patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy. METHODS This is a prospective, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. We investigated 54 patients scheduled to undergo elective abdominal hysterectomy. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either oral allopurinol 300 mg (n = 27) or placebo (n = 27) the night before and 1 h before surgery. Patients were submitted to evaluation of pain and anxiety before the treatment, for 24 h postoperatively, 30 and 90 days after surgery. Cerebrospinal fluid was collected at the time of the spinal anesthesia to perform the measurement of the central levels of purines. RESULTS Preoperative administration of allopurinol was effective in reducing postoperative pain 2 h after surgery. Allopurinol caused a reduction of approximately 40% in pain scores measured by the visual analogue pain scale after surgery (p < 0.05). No differences were found between groups in anxiety scores after surgery. There was a significant change in the cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of xanthine and uric acid before surgery (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION This study showed a short-term benefit of the use of allopurinol as a preanesthetic medication since it was related to a reduction on pain scores 2 h after surgery. The purinergic system is a potential target for new analgesic drugs. New studies investigating more selective purine derivatives in the management of pain should be performed. TRIAL NUMBER REGISTRATION Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials-ReBEC #RBR-9pw58p.
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Jones GH, Vecera CM, Pinjari OF, Machado-Vieira R. Inflammatory signaling mechanisms in bipolar disorder. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:45. [PMID: 34112182 PMCID: PMC8194019 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00742-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bipolar disorder is a decidedly heterogeneous and multifactorial disease, with a high individual and societal burden. While not all patients display overt markers of elevated inflammation, significant evidence suggests that aberrant immune signaling contributes to all stages of the disease, and likely explains the elevated rates of comorbid inflammatory illnesses seen in this population. While individual systems have been intensely studied and targeted, a relative paucity of attention has been given to the interconnecting role of inflammatory signals therein. This review presents an updated overview of some of the most prominent pathophysiologic mechanisms in bipolar disorder, from mitochondrial, endoplasmic reticular, and calcium homeostasis, to purinergic, kynurenic, and hormonal/neurotransmitter signaling, showing inflammation to act as a powerful nexus between these systems. Several areas with a high degree of mechanistic convergence within this paradigm are highlighted to present promising future targets for therapeutic development and screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory H Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Road, Houston, TX, 77054, USA.
| | - Courtney M Vecera
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Road, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Omar F Pinjari
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Road, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Rodrigo Machado-Vieira
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Road, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
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Fructose and Uric Acid as Drivers of a Hyperactive Foraging Response: A Clue to Behavioral Disorders Associated with Impulsivity or Mania? EVOL HUM BEHAV 2021; 42:194-203. [PMID: 33994772 DOI: 10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Several behavioral disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, and aggressive behaviors are linked with sugar intake and obesity. The reason(s) for this association has been unclear. Here we present a hypothesis supporting a role for fructose, a component of sugar and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), and uric acid (a fructose metabolite), in increasing the risk for these behavioral disorders. Recent studies have shown that the reason fructose intake is strongly associated with development of metabolic syndrome is that fructose intake activates an evolutionary-based survival pathway that stimulates foraging behavior and the storage of energy as fat. While modest intake may aid animals that would like to store fat as a protective response from food shortage or starvation, we propose that high intake of sugar and HFCS causes a hyperactive foraging response that stimulates craving, impulsivity, risk taking and aggression that increases the risk for ADHD, bipolar disease and aggressive behavior. High glycemic carbohydrates and salty foods may also contribute as they can be converted to fructose in the body. Some studies suggest uric acid produced during fructose metabolism may mediate some of these effects. Chronic stimulation of the pathway could lead to desensitization of hedonic responses and induce depression. In conclusion, a hyperactive foraging response driven by high glycemic carbohydrates and sugars may contribute to affective disorders.
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Fagundes AC, de Oliveira ED, Ferrari SG, Dos Santos LMM, Botelho LM, Schmidt SRG, Andrade CF, Lara DR, Souza DO, Schmidt AP. Allopurinol for fibromyalgia pain in adults: A randomized controlled trial. Pain Pract 2021; 22:19-27. [PMID: 33864725 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13019] [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] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allopurinol is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme xanthine oxidase used in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. Because it is well known that purines exert multiple affects on pain transmission, we hypothesized that the inhibition of xanthine oxidase by allopurinol could be a valid strategy to treat pain in humans. This study aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of oral allopurinol versus placebo as an adjuvant therapy in patients displaying fibromyalgia. METHODS This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study included 60 women with the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either oral allopurinol 300 mg (n = 31) or placebo (n = 29) twice daily during 30 days. The patients were submitted to evaluation for pain sensitivity, anxiety, depression, and functional status before treatment, and 15 and 30 days thereafter. RESULTS Oral administration of allopurinol 300 mg twice daily was ineffective in improving pain scores measured by several tools up to 30 days of treatment (P > 0.05). Additionally, no significant effects of allopurinol over anxiety, depressive symptoms, and functional status of fibromyalgia patients were observed in the present study. CONCLUSIONS Although previous findings indicated that allopurinol could present intrinsic analgesic effects in both animals and humans, this study showed no benefit of the use of oral allopurinol as an adjuvant strategy during 30 days in women displaying fibromyalgia. However, considering previous promising results, new prospective studies are still valid to further investigate allopurinol and more selective purine derivatives in the management of pain syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aécio C Fagundes
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde (ICBS), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Enderson D de Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde (ICBS), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Samira G Ferrari
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lúcia M M Dos Santos
- Department of Pain and Palliative Care, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Leonardo M Botelho
- Department of Pain and Palliative Care, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Sérgio R G Schmidt
- Pain S.O.S., Pain Relief Center, Medical Center of Hospital Mãe de Deus, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristiano F Andrade
- Postgraduate Program in Pneumological Sciences, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Diogo R Lara
- Cingulo Mental Health App, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Diogo O Souza
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde (ICBS), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - André P Schmidt
- Department of Biochemistry, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde (ICBS), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Pain S.O.S., Pain Relief Center, Medical Center of Hospital Mãe de Deus, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Pneumological Sciences, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Department of Anesthesia, Santa Casa de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal de Ciências Médicas de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Department of Anesthesia, Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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7
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Jones GH, Rong C, Shariq AS, Mishra A, Machado-Vieira R. Intracellular Signaling Cascades in Bipolar Disorder. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2021; 48:101-132. [PMID: 32860212 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2020_157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Bipolar spectrum disorders carry a significant public health burden. Disproportionately high rates of suicide, incarceration, and comorbid medical conditions necessitate an extraordinary focus on understanding the intricacies of this disease. Elucidating granular, intracellular details seems to be a necessary preamble to advancing promising therapeutic opportunities. In this chapter, we review a wide range of intracellular mechanisms including mitochondrial energetics, calcium signaling, neuroinflammation, the microbiome, neurotransmitter metabolism, glycogen synthase kinase 3-beta (GSK3β), protein kinase C (PKC) and diacylglycerol (DAG), and neurotrophins (especially BDNF), as well as the glutamatergic, dopaminergic, purinergic, and neurohormonal systems. Owing to the relative lack of understanding and effective therapeutic options compared to the rest of the spectrum, special attention is paid in the chapter to the latest developments in bipolar depression. Likewise, from a therapeutic standpoint, special attention should be paid to the pervasive mechanistic actions of lithium as a means of amalgamating numerous, disparate cascades into a digestible cognitive topology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory H Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Carola Rong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Aisha S Shariq
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University Health Science Center, El Paso, TX, USA
- Texas Tech University Health Science Center, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Abhinav Mishra
- Texas Tech University Health Science Center, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Rodrigo Machado-Vieira
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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8
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Dos Santos Oliveira PM, Santos V, Coroa M, Ribeiro J, Madeira N. Serum uric acid as a predictor of bipolarity in individuals with a major depressive episode. Bipolar Disord 2019; 21:235-243. [PMID: 30375143 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.12708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There are no well-established biomarkers to predict the risk of conversion to bipolar disorder (BD) in patients with depression. Given the putative role of purinergic neurotransmission dysfunction in BD, the purpose of our study was to evaluate if higher serum uric acid (UA) levels could predict BD conversion in depressed inpatients. METHODS We reviewed retrospectively the records of subjects hospitalized between June 2007 and June 2010 with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) who had undergone routine UA levels testing at admission. At an approximate 10-year follow-up we identified subjects with a subsequent diagnosis of BD. We compared UA levels between the BD-converter and non-BD converter groups, performed Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to evaluate the prognostic accuracy of serum UA levels and calculated the clinical utility index (CUI) as a risk biomarker for conversion to BD. RESULTS The study included 250 subjects (55 "BD-converters" and 195 "No BD-converters"). "BD-converters" had significantly higher plasma UA levels compared to "No BD-converters" in their index hospitalization irrespective of gender (males: 403.84 ± 91.76 vs 270.81 ± 53.58 µmol/L; U = 94.5, P < 0.001 and females 302.19 ± 52.64 vs 202.69 ± 48.93 µmol/L; t = 10.75, P < 0.001). Serum UA levels showed a very good to excellent accuracy for predicting conversion to BD in inpatients with MDD (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.86, 0.94) and had a good to excellent CUI- and a moderate to good CUI+ grading for discriminating BD-converter cases from non-BD converters. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that depressed patients with higher levels of serum UA are at greater risk of a subsequent manic or hypomanic episode. The purinergic system could prove a promising path for the search of biomarkers in BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Miguel Dos Santos Oliveira
- Psychiatry Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Psychological Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vítor Santos
- Psychiatry Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Psychological Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Manuel Coroa
- Psychiatry Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Psychological Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Ribeiro
- Psychiatry Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Psychological Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno Madeira
- Psychiatry Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Psychological Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Robb AS, Schwabe S, Ceresoli-Borroni G, Nasser A, Yu C, Marcus R, Candler SA, Findling RL. A proposed anti-maladaptive aggression agent classification: improving our approach to treating impulsive aggression. Postgrad Med 2019; 131:129-137. [PMID: 30678534 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2019.1574401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Proper drug categorization enables clinicians to readily identify the agents most appropriate for patients in need. Currently, patients with maladaptive aggression do not all always fall into a single existing diagnostic or treatment category. Such is the case for those with impulsive aggression (IA). IA is an associated feature of numerous neuropsychiatric disorders, and can be described as eruptive, aggressive behavior or a 'short fuse'. Although agents from a broad spectrum of drug classes have been used to treat maladaptive aggression, few have been tested distinctly in patients with IA, and there is no drug specifically indicated by the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) for IA. Further, current treatments often fail to sufficiently treat IA symptomatology. These issues create an unclear and inadequate treatment path for patients. Here we will propose the establishment of a class of anti-maladaptive aggression agents to begin addressing this clinical issue. The development of such a class would unify the various drugs currently used to treat maladaptive aggression and streamline the treatment approach towards IA. As an important case example of the range of candidate drugs that could fit into a new anti-maladaptive aggression agent category, we will review an investigational IA pharmacotherapy. SPN-810 (extended-release molindone) is currently being investigated as a novel treatment for children with IA and ADHD. Based on these studies we will review how SPN-810 may be well suited for a new, anti-maladaptive aggression drug class and more precisely, a proposed subgroup of IA modulators. The goal of this review is to begin improving the identification of and therapeutic approach for maladaptive aggression as well as IA through more precise anti-maladaptive aggression agent categorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelaide S Robb
- a Psychology and Behavioral Health , Children's National Medical Center , Washington , DC , USA
| | - Stefan Schwabe
- b Research & Development , Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , Rockville , MD , USA
| | | | - Azmi Nasser
- c Clinical Research , Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , Rockville , MD , USA
| | - Chungping Yu
- d Preclinical DMPK and Pharmacology , Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , Rockville , MD , USA
| | - Ronald Marcus
- c Clinical Research , Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , Rockville , MD , USA
| | - Shawn A Candler
- e Medical Affairs , Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , Rockville , MD , USA
| | - Robert L Findling
- f Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA.,g Psychiatric Services and Research , Kennedy Krieger Institute , Baltimore , MD , USA
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Ramin M, Li Y, Chang WT, Shaw H, Rao Y. The peacefulness gene promotes aggression in Drosophila. Mol Brain 2019; 12:1. [PMID: 30606245 PMCID: PMC6318936 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-018-0417-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural aggressiveness is commonly observed in all animal species, and is displayed frequently when animals compete for food, territory and mating. Aggression is an innate behaviour, and is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. However, the genetics of aggression remains largely unclear. In this study, we identify the peacefulness (pfs) gene as a novel player in the control of male-male aggression in Drosophila. Mutations in pfs decreased intermale aggressiveness, but did not affect locomotor activity, olfactory avoidance response and sexual behaviours. pfs encodes for the evolutionarily conserved molybdenum cofactor (MoCo) synthesis 1 protein (Mocs1), which catalyzes the first step in the MoCo biosynthesis pathway. Neuronal-specific knockdown of pfs decreased aggressiveness. By contrast, overexpression of pfs greatly increased aggressiveness. Knocking down Cinnamon (Cin) catalyzing the final step in the MoCo synthesis pathway, caused a pfs-like aggression phenotype. In humans, inhibition of MoCo-dependent enzymes displays anti-aggressive effects. Thus, the control of aggression by Pfs-dependent MoCo pathways may be conserved throughout evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoudreza Ramin
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill Centre for Research in Neuroscience, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada.,Integrated Program in Neuroscience, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Yueyang Li
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill Centre for Research in Neuroscience, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Wen-Tzu Chang
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill Centre for Research in Neuroscience, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Hunter Shaw
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill Centre for Research in Neuroscience, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Yong Rao
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill Centre for Research in Neuroscience, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada. .,Integrated Program in Neuroscience, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada. .,Centre for Research in Neuroscience, McGill University Health Centre, Room L7-136, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1A4, Canada.
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11
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Purinergic system in psychiatric diseases. Mol Psychiatry 2018; 23:94-106. [PMID: 28948971 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders are debilitating diseases, affecting >80 million people worldwide. There are no causal cures for psychiatric disorders and available therapies only treat the symptoms. The etiology of psychiatric disorders is unknown, although it has been speculated to be a combination of environmental, stress and genetic factors. One of the neurotransmitter systems implicated in the biology of psychiatric disorders is the purinergic system. In this review, we performed a comprehensive search of the literature about the role and function of the purinergic system in the development and predisposition to psychiatric disorders, with a focus on depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, anxiety and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. We also describe how therapeutics used for psychiatric disorders act on the purinergic system.
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12
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Kumar R, Joshi G, Kler H, Kalra S, Kaur M, Arya R. Toward an Understanding of Structural Insights of Xanthine and Aldehyde Oxidases: An Overview of their Inhibitors and Role in Various Diseases. Med Res Rev 2017; 38:1073-1125. [DOI: 10.1002/med.21457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Raj Kumar
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Centre for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, School of Basic and Applied Sciences; Central University of Punjab; Bathinda 151001 India
| | - Gaurav Joshi
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Centre for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, School of Basic and Applied Sciences; Central University of Punjab; Bathinda 151001 India
| | - Harveen Kler
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Centre for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, School of Basic and Applied Sciences; Central University of Punjab; Bathinda 151001 India
| | - Sourav Kalra
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Centre for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, School of Basic and Applied Sciences; Central University of Punjab; Bathinda 151001 India
- Centre for Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine
| | - Manpreet Kaur
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Centre for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, School of Basic and Applied Sciences; Central University of Punjab; Bathinda 151001 India
| | - Ramandeep Arya
- Laboratory for Drug Design and Synthesis, Centre for Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, School of Basic and Applied Sciences; Central University of Punjab; Bathinda 151001 India
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13
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Carr CN, Straley CM, Baugh TB. Allopurinol for the Treatment of Refractory Aggression: A Case Series. Pharmacotherapy 2017; 37:748-754. [DOI: 10.1002/phar.1943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea N. Carr
- Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC; Pittsburgh Pennsylvania
| | - Craig M. Straley
- Department of Pharmacy Practice; Ferris State University College of Pharmacy; Big Rapids Michigan
- Pharmacy Service; Battle Creek VA Medical Center; Battle Creek Michigan
| | - Terrence B. Baugh
- Pharmacy Service; Battle Creek VA Medical Center; Battle Creek Michigan
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14
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Buie LW, Oertel MD, Cala SO. Allopurinol as Adjuvant Therapy in Poorly Responsive or Treatment Refractory Schizophrenia. Ann Pharmacother 2016; 40:2200-4. [PMID: 17119103 DOI: 10.1345/aph.1h222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To review the available literature evaluating the effectiveness of allopurinol for poorly responsive or treatment refractory schizophrenia. Data Sources: Searches of MEDLINE (1966–October 2006), the Cochrane Library, and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–October 2006) were conducted using the terms allopurinol and schizophrenia. Limits were set to select studies conducted in humans. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All articles identified from the data sources were evaluated. All case reports or clinical trials located were included in the review. Data Synthesis: Dopamine has been implicated for many years in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, and the typical antipsychotics, via blockade of dopaminergic neurotransmission, have provided relief for patients with positive symptoms. However, because dopamine blockade does not relieve all symptoms of schizophrenia, it is now evident that many neurotransmitters may be involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Therefore, atypical antipsychotics, which target multiple neurotransmitters, have emerged as first-line therapies. An evolving body of evidence also supports a purinergic hypothesis for schizophrenia. Increased adenosinergic transmission is thought to reduce the affinity of dopamine agonists for dopamine receptors. Allopurinol, a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, may increase circulating pools of adenosine and may ultimately have antipsychotic and anxiolytic effects. Growing evidence for use of allopurinol as adjunctive therapy has been reported in both case reports and small clinical trials. Conclusions: Clinical trials show that adjuvant allopurinol may provide benefit to patients who are poorly responsive to current treatments for schizophrenia. Allopurinol is well tolerated by most patients. However, larger, randomized clinical trials need to be performed to determine the magnitude of this benefit, whether allopurinol should be routinely used as adjuvant therapy to antipsychotics, and which patient population is most likely to benefit from allopurinol use. For patients with limited options, allopurinol in doses of 300 mg once or twice daily may improve psychotic symptoms, especially refractory positive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry W Buie
- University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, NC 27514-4420, USA
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15
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Lanznaster D, Dal-Cim T, Piermartiri TCB, Tasca CI. Guanosine: a Neuromodulator with Therapeutic Potential in Brain Disorders. Aging Dis 2016; 7:657-679. [PMID: 27699087 PMCID: PMC5036959 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2016.0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Guanosine is a purine nucleoside with important functions in cell metabolism and a protective role in response to degenerative diseases or injury. The past decade has seen major advances in identifying the modulatory role of extracellular action of guanosine in the central nervous system (CNS). Evidence from rodent and cell models show a number of neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects of guanosine preventing deleterious consequences of seizures, spinal cord injury, pain, mood disorders and aging-related diseases, such as ischemia, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. The present review describes the findings of in vivo and in vitro studies and offers an update of guanosine effects in the CNS. We address the protein targets for guanosine action and its interaction with glutamatergic and adenosinergic systems and with calcium-activated potassium channels. We also discuss the intracellular mechanisms modulated by guanosine preventing oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammatory burden and modulation of glutamate transport. New and exciting avenues for future investigation into the protective effects of guanosine include characterization of a selective guanosine receptor. A better understanding of the neuromodulatory action of guanosine will allow the development of therapeutic approach to brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Lanznaster
- 2Programa de Pós-graduação em Neurociências, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina-UFSC, Campus Trindade, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil; 3CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasília - DF 70040-020, Brazil
| | - Tharine Dal-Cim
- 2Programa de Pós-graduação em Neurociências, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina-UFSC, Campus Trindade, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil; 3CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasília - DF 70040-020, Brazil
| | - Tetsadê C B Piermartiri
- 2Programa de Pós-graduação em Neurociências, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina-UFSC, Campus Trindade, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil; 3CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasília - DF 70040-020, Brazil
| | - Carla I Tasca
- 1Departamento de Bioquímica,; 2Programa de Pós-graduação em Neurociências, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina-UFSC, Campus Trindade, 88040-900, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
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16
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Mrug S, Mrug M. Uric acid excretion predicts increased aggression in urban adolescents. Physiol Behav 2016; 163:144-148. [PMID: 27180134 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Elevated levels of uric acid have been linked with impulsive and disinhibited behavior in clinical and community populations of adults, but no studies have examined uric acid in relation to adolescent aggression. This study examined the prospective role of uric acid in aggressive behavior among urban, low income adolescents, and whether this relationship varies by gender. A total of 84 adolescents (M age 13.36years; 50% male; 95% African American) self-reported on their physical aggression at baseline and 1.5years later. At baseline, the youth also completed a 12-h (overnight) urine collection at home which was used to measure uric acid excretion. After adjusting for baseline aggression and age, greater uric acid excretion predicted more frequent aggressive behavior at follow up, with no significant gender differences. The results suggest that lowering uric acid levels may help reduce youth aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Mrug
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1720 2(nd) Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States.
| | - Michal Mrug
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1720 2(nd) Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
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17
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Abstract
Behavioral disturbances in Alzheimer's disease and related disorders are common throughout all stages of these dementing illnesses. They are a major source of caregiver distress and can lead to premature institutionalization of the patient if not properly addressed. Fortunately, such behaviors are often treatable. In this article, Dr Smith outlines ways to manage behavioral problems in dementia with pharmacologic as well as nonpharmacologic approaches. Throughout, she emphasizes that proper treatment of problem behaviors in this vulnerable population requires the education and patience of caregivers and physicians alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda G Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, University of South Florida College of Medicine, University of South Florida Suncoast Gerontology Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
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18
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Muti M, Del Grande C, Musetti L, Marazziti D, Turri M, Cirronis M, Pergentini I, Corsi M, Dell'Osso L, Corsini GU. Serum uric acid levels and different phases of illness in bipolar I patients treated with lithium. Psychiatry Res 2015; 225:604-8. [PMID: 25547850 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2014.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Recent findings support the role of purinergic system dysfunction in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD). The present study aimed to evaluate the pattern of serum uric acid levels in a sample of 98 BD I patients followed-up prospectively in a naturalistic study and treated with lithium monotherapy or in association with other mood stabilizers (valproate or carbamazepine), in relation to different phases of illness and to pharmacological treatment. The results showed that uric acid levels were significantly higher in patients suffering from a manic/mixed episode, than in those euthymic or during a depressive phase. Further, these levels were related to the Clinical Global Impression-Bipolar Version (CGI-BP) scale score for the severity of manic symptoms. A positive correlation was found also with male sex and with serum lithium levels. These findings suggest that a dysregulation of the purinergic system may occur during manic/mixed episodes, and they support a possible role of serum uric acid levels as a state-dependent marker of BD manic phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Muti
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudia Del Grande
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Musetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa, Italy
| | - Donatella Marazziti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Milo Turri
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Cirronis
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, Pisa, Italy
| | - Irene Pergentini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa, Italy
| | - Martina Corsi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa, Italy
| | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Umberto Corsini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, Pisa, Italy
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19
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Adenosine hypothesis of schizophrenia--opportunities for pharmacotherapy. Neuropharmacology 2011; 62:1527-43. [PMID: 21315743 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2011.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2010] [Revised: 01/21/2011] [Accepted: 01/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacotherapy of schizophrenia based on the dopamine hypothesis remains unsatisfactory for the negative and cognitive symptoms of the disease. Enhancing N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) function is expected to alleviate such persistent symptoms, but successful development of novel clinically effective compounds remains challenging. Adenosine is a homeostatic bioenergetic network modulator that is able to affect complex networks synergistically at different levels (receptor-dependent pathways, biochemistry, bioenergetics, and epigenetics). By affecting brain dopamine and glutamate activities, it represents a promising candidate for reversing the functional imbalance in these neurotransmitter systems believed to underlie the genesis of schizophrenia symptoms, as well as restoring homeostasis of bioenergetics. Suggestion of an adenosine hypothesis of schizophrenia further posits that adenosinergic dysfunction might contribute to the emergence of multiple neurotransmitter dysfunctions characteristic of schizophrenia via diverse mechanisms. Given the importance of adenosine in early brain development and regulation of brain immune response, it also bears direct relevance to the aetiology of schizophrenia. Here, we provide an overview of the rationale and evidence in support of the therapeutic potential of multiple adenosinergic targets, including the high-affinity adenosine receptors (A(1)R and A(2A)R), and the regulatory enzyme adenosine kinase (ADK). Key preliminary clinical data and preclinical findings are reviewed.
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20
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Abstract
Off-label use is common in dermatology, and is inevitable for rare cutaneous diseases such as perforating dermatosis. Allopurinol is traditionally considered to be a drug for hyperuricemia only, but the recent demonstration of its efficacy in congestive heart failure has spurred renewed interest in its application in other clinical specialties. In dermatology, allopurinol is best known for its severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Recent genomic studies conducted in Taiwan have discovered useful HLA markers for determining the susceptibility of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with allopurinol. Allopurinol has also been used in a number of dermatologic disorders including acquired reactive perforating collagenosis, sarcoidosis, psoriasis and granulomas caused by methacrylate microspheres, silicon and tattoos. Allopurinol may express its therapeutic effects via its antioxidation or anti-inflammatory properties, or its ability to improve vascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsen-Fang Tsai
- Department of Dermatology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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21
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Schmidt AP, Böhmer AE, Antunes C, Schallenberger C, Porciúncula LO, Elisabetsky E, Lara DR, Souza DO. Anti-nociceptive properties of the xanthine oxidase inhibitor allopurinol in mice: role of A1 adenosine receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 156:163-72. [PMID: 19133997 PMCID: PMC2697763 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2008.00025.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2008] [Revised: 07/25/2008] [Accepted: 09/02/2008] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Allopurinol is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme xanthine oxidase, used primarily in the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. It is well known that purines exert multiple effects on pain transmission. We hypothesized that the inhibition of xanthine oxidase by allopurinol, thereby reducing purine degradation, could be a valid strategy to enhance purinergic activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-nociceptive profile of allopurinol on chemical and thermal pain models in mice. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Mice received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of vehicle (Tween 10%) or allopurinol (10-400 mg kg(-1)). Anti-nociceptive effects were measured with intraplantar capsaicin, intraplantar glutamate, tail-flick or hot-plate tests. KEY RESULTS Allopurinol presented dose-dependent anti-nociceptive effects in all models. The opioid antagonist naloxone did not affect these anti-nociceptive effects. The non-selective adenosine-receptor antagonist caffeine and the selective A(1) adenosine-receptor antagonist, DPCPX, but not the selective A(2A) adenosine-receptor antagonist, SCH58261, completely prevented allopurinol-induced anti-nociception. No obvious motor deficits were produced by allopurinol, at doses up to 200 mg kg(-1). Allopurinol also caused an increase in cerebrospinal fluid levels of purines, including the nucleosides adenosine and guanosine, and decreased cerebrospinal fluid concentration of uric acid. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Allopurinol-induced anti-nociception may be related to adenosine accumulation. Allopurinol is an old and extensively used compound and seems to be well tolerated with no obvious central nervous system toxic effects at high doses. This drug may be useful to treat pain syndromes in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- A P Schmidt
- Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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22
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Schmidt AP, Lara DR, Souza DO. Proposal of a guanine-based purinergic system in the mammalian central nervous system. Pharmacol Ther 2007; 116:401-16. [PMID: 17884172 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2007.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2007] [Accepted: 07/30/2007] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Guanine-based purines have been traditionally studied as modulators of intracellular processes, mainly G-protein activity. However, they also exert several extracellular effects not related to G proteins, including modulation of glutamatergic activity, trophic effects on neural cells, and behavioral effects. In this article, the putative roles of guanine-based purines on the nervous system are reviewed, and we propose a specific guanine-based purinergic system in addition to the well-characterized adenine-based purinergic system. Current evidence suggest that guanine-based purines modulate glutamatergic parameters, such as glutamate uptake by astrocytes and synaptic vesicles, seizures induced by glutamatergic agents, response to ischemia and excitotoxicity, and are able to affect learning, memory and anxiety. Additionally, guanine-based purines have important trophic functions affecting the development, structure, or maintenance of neural cells. Although studies addressing the mechanism of action (receptors and second messenger systems) of guanine-based purines are still insufficient, these findings point to the guanine-based purines (nucleotides and guanosine) as potential new targets for neuroprotection and neuromodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- André P Schmidt
- Departamento de Bioquímica, ICBS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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23
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Freedman M. Frontotemporal dementia: recommendations for therapeutic studies, designs, and approaches. Can J Neurol Sci 2007; 34 Suppl 1:S118-24. [PMID: 17469694 DOI: 10.1017/s0317167100005680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is one of three neurobehavioural syndromes produced by frontotemporal lobar degeneration. Despite the importance of FTD as a cause of dementia, especially in younger age groups, and a rationale for therapies targeting serotonergic and dopaminergic systems, there have been no large scale treatment trials in FTD. Moreover, there is no consensus on standards to facilitate comparison across therapeutic trials. This paper reviews the literature on therapeutic trials in FTD and outlines general recommendations for standards related to the development of future treatment studies in this disorder. Drugs tested in FTD include trazodone, galantamine, idazoxan, lithium plus fluoxetine, lithium plus paroxetine, SSRIs, 1-deprenyl, moclobemide, methylphenidate, piracetam, rivastigmine, donepezil, olanzapine, risperidone, amantadine, guanfacine, allopurinol, and bromocriptine. Improvement has been reported in FTD for all drugs except piracetam, guanfacine and galantamine, although there was improvement on galantamine in primary progressive aphasia. Whereas improvement has been reported for paroxetine and other SSRIs, as well as idazoxan and methylphenidate, paroxetine and idazoxan have also been reported to cause a decline in function, and a marginally significant decline has been reported for methylphenidate. In addition, patients with Pick's disease, which is part of the spectrum of frontotemporal lobar degeneration, showed improvement on calcium EDTA. Six studies are double-blind placebo-controlled trials: two reports of cases using idazoxan and group trials using trazodone, paroxetine, galantamine and methylphenidate. It is recommended that experts in FTD arrive at a consensus to define standards for all clinical trials in FTD. These should include standards for diagnostic criteria, tests of severity, experimental design, and outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morris Freedman
- Division of Neurology and Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest
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24
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Lara DR, Dall'Igna OP, Ghisolfi ES, Brunstein MG. Involvement of adenosine in the neurobiology of schizophrenia and its therapeutic implications. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2006; 30:617-29. [PMID: 16580767 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2006.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Based on the neuromodulatory and homeostatic actions of adenosine, adenosine dysfunction may contribute to the neurobiological and clinical features of schizophrenia. The present model of adenosine dysfunction in schizophrenia takes into consideration the dopamine and glutamate hypotheses, since adenosine exerts neuromodulatory roles on these systems, and proposes that adenosine plays a role in the inhibitory deficit found in schizophrenia. Given the role of adenosine activation of adenosine A1 receptor (A1R) in mediating neurotoxicity in early stages of brain development, pre- and peri-natal complications leading to excessive adenosine release could induce primary brain changes (i.e., first hit). These events would lead to an adenosine inhibitory deficit through a partial loss of A1R that may emerge as reduced control of dopamine activity and increased vulnerability to excitotoxic glutamate action in the mature brain (i.e., second hit). Adenosine dysfunction is reasonably compatible with symptoms, gray and white matter abnormalities, progressive brain loss, pre- and peri-natal risk factors, age of onset, response to current treatments, impaired sensory gating and increased smoking in schizophrenia. Pharmacological treatments enhancing adenosine activity could be effective for symptom control and for alleviating deterioration in the course of the illness. Accordingly, allopurinol, which may indirectly increase adenosine, has been effective and well tolerated in the treatment of schizophrenia. Since much of the evidence for the adenosine hypothesis is preliminary and theoretical, further investigation in the field is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo R Lara
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Biociências, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
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25
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Current awareness in geriatric psychiatry. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2003; 18:563-70. [PMID: 12858863 DOI: 10.1002/gps.788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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