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Wu B, Cheng S, Liu F, Wei J, Liu Y, Qian T, Ding J, Xu B, Wei J. Novel chimeric peptides based on endomorphins and ghrelin receptor antagonist produced supraspinal antinociceptive effects with reduced acute tolerance in mice. Biochimie 2024:S0300-9084(24)00198-6. [PMID: 39147011 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
It is widely recognized that developing bi- or multifunctional opioid compounds could offer a valuable approach to pain management with fewer side effects compared to single-target compounds. In this study, we designed and characterized two novel chimeric peptides, EM-1-DLS and EM-2-DLS, incorporating endomorphins (EMs) and the ghrelin receptor antagonist [D-Lys3]-GHRP-6 (DLS). Functional assays demonstrated that EM-1-DLS and EM-2-DLS acted as κ-opioid receptor (κ-OR)-preferring agonists, weak μ-opioid receptors (μ-OR) and ghrelin receptor (GHSR) agonists. Upon intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration in mice, both EM-1-DLS and EM-2-DLS exhibited dose- and time-dependent antinociceptive effects in the tail withdrawal test. EM-1-DLS demonstrated the highest antinociceptive potency among the peptides, with an ED50 approximately 8-fold greater than EM-1, while EM-2-DLS showed comparable effects to EM-2. The antinociceptive actions of EM-1-DLS involved activation of GHS-R1α, μ-OR, and κ-OR, whereas EM-2-DLS acted via GHS-R1α, δ-OR, and κ-OR pathways. Additionally, acute antinociceptive tolerance was investigated, revealing that EM-1-DLS induced a tolerance ratio of 2.33-fold, significantly lower than the 5.19-fold ratio induced by EM-1. Cross-tolerance ratios between the chimeric peptides and EMs ranged from 0.92 to 1.76, indicating reduced tolerance compared to EMs alone. These findings highlight the potential of these chimeric peptides to mitigate pain with diminished tolerance development, suggesting a promising strategy for the development of new analgesic therapies with improved safety profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China
| | - Songxia Cheng
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China
| | - Fuyan Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China; Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical Teaching and Research Section of Nanchang Health School, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China
| | - Jia Wei
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Chengdu Shuangliu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cheng Du, Sichuan Province, 610017, PR China
| | - Yongling Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China
| | - Teng Qian
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China
| | - Jiali Ding
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China
| | - Biao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, and Institute of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730000, PR China.
| | - Jie Wei
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, PR China.
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Tang Y, Du J, Wu H, Wang M, Liu S, Tao F. Potential Therapeutic Effects of Short-Chain Fatty Acids on Chronic Pain. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:191-203. [PMID: 36173071 PMCID: PMC10788890 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220927092016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The intestinal homeostasis maintained by the gut microbiome and relevant metabolites is essential for health, and its disturbance leads to various intestinal or extraintestinal diseases. Recent studies suggest that gut microbiome-derived metabolites short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are involved in different neurological disorders (such as chronic pain). SCFAs are produced by bacterial fermentation of dietary fibers in the gut and contribute to multiple host processes, including gastrointestinal regulation, cardiovascular modulation, and neuroendocrine-immune homeostasis. Although SCFAs have been implicated in the modulation of chronic pain, the detailed mechanisms that underlie such roles of SCFAs remain to be further investigated. In this review, we summarize currently available research data regarding SCFAs as a potential therapeutic target for chronic pain treatment and discuss several possible mechanisms by which SCFAs modulate chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Neurology of Xinxiang, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Juan Du
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Hongfeng Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Sufang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Feng Tao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University Dallas, Texas, USA
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Ronchi G, Tos P, Angelino E, Muratori L, Reano S, Filigheddu N, Graziani A, Geuna S, Raimondo S. Effect of unacylated ghrelin on peripheral nerve regeneration. Eur J Histochem 2021; 65. [PMID: 34734521 PMCID: PMC8586818 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2021.3287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin is a circulating peptide hormone released by enteroendocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract as two forms, acylated and unacylated. Acylated ghrelin (AG) binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR1a), thus stimulating food intake, growth hormone release, and gastrointestinal motility. Conversely, unacylated GHR (UnAG), through binding to a yet unidentified receptor, protects the skeletal muscle from atrophy, stimulates muscle regeneration, and protects cardiomyocytes from ischemic damage. Recently, interest about ghrelin has raised also among neuroscientists because of its effect on the nervous system, especially the stimulation of neurogenesis in spinal cord, brain stem, and hippocampus. However, few information is still available about its effectiveness on peripheral nerve regeneration. To partially fill this gap, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of UnAG on peripheral nerve regeneration after median nerve crush injury and after nerve transection immediately repaired by means of an end-to-end suture. To this end, we exploited FVB1 Myh6/Ghrl transgenic mice in which overexpression of the ghrelin gene (Ghrl) results in selective up-regulation of circulating UnAG levels, but not of AG. Regeneration was assessed by both functional evaluation (grasping test) and morphometrical analysis of regenerated myelinated axons. Results obtained lead to conclude that UnAG could have a role in development of peripheral nerves and during more severe lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ronchi
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences and Neuroscience Institute of the "Cavalieri Ottolenghi" Foundation (NICO), University of Turin, Orbassano (TO).
| | - Pierluigi Tos
- Hand Surgery and Reconstructive Microsurgery Unit, ASST G. Pini-CTO, Milan.
| | - Elia Angelino
- Department of Biotechnologies and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin.
| | - Luisa Muratori
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences and Neuroscience Institute of the "Cavalieri Ottolenghi" Foundation (NICO), University of Turin, Orbassano (TO).
| | - Simone Reano
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara.
| | | | - Andrea Graziani
- Department of Biotechnologies and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin.
| | - Stefano Geuna
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences and Neuroscience Institute of the "Cavalieri Ottolenghi" Foundation (NICO), University of Turin, Orbassano (TO).
| | - Stefania Raimondo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences and Neuroscience Institute of the "Cavalieri Ottolenghi" Foundation (NICO), University of Turin, Orbassano (TO).
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Fan BW, Liu YL, Zhu GX, Wu B, Zhang MM, Deng Q, Wang JL, Chen JX, Han RW, Wei J. The active fragments of ghrelin cross the blood-brain barrier and enter the brain to produce antinociceptive effects after systemic administration. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2021; 99:1057-1068. [PMID: 34492212 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2020-0668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
G (1-5)-NH2, G (1-7)-NH2, and G (1-9) are the active fragments of ghrelin. The aim of this study was to investigate the antinociceptive effects, their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, and the receptor mechanism(s) of these fragments using the tail withdrawal test in male Kunming mice. The antinociceptive effects of these fragments (2, 6, 20, and 60 nmol/mouse) were tested at 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min after intravenous (i.v.) injection. These fragments induced dose- and time-related antinociceptive effects relative to saline. Using the near infrared fluorescence imaging experiments, our results showed that these fragments could cross the brain-blood barrier and enter the brain. The antinociceptive effects of these fragments were completely antagonized by naloxone (intracerebroventricular, i.c.v.); however, naloxone methiodide (intraperitoneal, i.p.), which is the peripheral restricted opioid receptor antagonist, did not antagonize these antinociceptive effects. Furthermore, the GHS-R1α antagonist [D-Lys3]-GHRP-6 (i.c.v.) completely antagonized these antinociceptive effects, too. These results suggested that these fragments induced antinociceptive effects through central opioid receptors and GHS-R1α. In conclusion, our studies indicated that these active fragments of ghrelin could cross the brain-blood barrier and enter the brain and induce antinociceptive effects through central opioid receptors and GHS-R1α after intravenous injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Wei Fan
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Yong-Ling Liu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Gui-Xian Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Bing Wu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Min-Min Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Qing Deng
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jing-Lei Wang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jia-Xiang Chen
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Ren-Wen Han
- Laboratory of Fear and Anxiety Disorders, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jie Wei
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
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Chen M, Lin H, Gao Y, Wang Z, Li Y, Jin F. Ghrelin attenuates drowning injury via dual effects on damage protection and immune repression. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:920. [PMID: 34350235 PMCID: PMC8263863 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Seawater drowning is the major cause of accidental injury and death. The current treatment could not essentially block the source of the damage due to the complex etiology. Therefore, it is urgent to clarify the detailed mechanisms and find effective therapeutic approaches. Methods We performed in vitro experiments to evaluate the damage of seawater drowning to lung epithelial cells. FACS, immunofluorescent staining, and western blot were used to detect the apoptosis. CCK-8 assay, Ki67 staining, and cell cycle analysis were used to assess the proliferation. The cytokine expression was determined by qRT-PCR and ELISA. Western blot and reporter assay were used for regulation mechanism study. For neutrophils development, Transwell assay and FACS were used for further investigation. Besides, in vivo study was performed with the seawater drowning model in rats. Results In this study, we found that seawater drowning induced mitochondria damage, which further accelerated epithelial cell apoptosis and repressed cell proliferation. Administration of ghrelin attenuated the mitochondria damage via reducing ROS generation, decreasing the concentration of calcium ion and ceremide, and promoting ATP production. Besides, exogenous ghrelin also rescued the cell survival inhibited by seawater simulants. Mechanically, ghrelin retrieved the influence of seawater via inhibiting NF-κB signaling activation, and agonist of NF-κB could offset the function of ghrelin. Besides, ghrelin reduced the expression of inflammatory factors and chemokines responsible for neutrophils activation and recruitment, by which ghrelin suppressed the immune response. The further in vivo experiments also indicated that ghrelin treatment restored the apoptosis promotion and inflammation activation function of seawater simulants, and further alleviated the lung tissue injury. Conclusions Our study revealed the dual effect of ghrelin on seawater drowning induced lung injury via damage protection and immune repression, providing new insights into drowning injury pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Respiration Department of Tangdu hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongwei Lin
- Respiration Department of Tangdu hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yanjun Gao
- Respiration Department of Tangdu hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zaiqiang Wang
- Respiration Department of Tangdu hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yujuan Li
- Respiration Department of Tangdu hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Faguang Jin
- Respiration Department of Tangdu hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Baser T, Ozdemir E, Filiz AK, Taskiran AS, Gursoy S. Ghrelin receptor agonist hexarelin attenuates antinociceptive tolerance to morphine in rats. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2021; 99:461-467. [PMID: 32893668 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2020-0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Ghrelin, a peptide hormone released from the gastric endocrine glands, shows analgesic activity apart from its various physiological effects. Nevertheless, the effects of ghrelin receptor (GHS-R) agonists on morphine analgesia and tolerance have not yet been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the ghrelin receptor agonist hexarelin and antagonist [d-Lys3]-GHRP-6 on morphine antinociception and tolerance in rats. A total of 104 Wistar albino male adult rats (weighing approximately 220-240 g) were used in the experiments. To induce morphine tolerance, a three-day cumulative dose regimen was used in the rats. Then, randomly selected rats were evaluated for morphine tolerance on day 4. The analgesic effects of hexarelin (0.2 mg·kg-1), [d-Lys3]-GHRP-6 (10 mg·kg-1), and morphine (5 mg·kg-1) were measured at 30-min intervals (0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min) by tail-flick and hot-plate analgesia tests. The findings suggest that hexarelin in combination with morphine attenuates analgesic tolerance to morphine. On the other hand, ghrelin receptor antagonist [d-Lys3]-GHRP-6 has no significant analgesic activity on the morphine tolerance in analgesia tests. Furthermore, co-administration of hexarelin and morphine increases the analgesic effect. In conclusion, these data indicate that administration of GHS-R agonist hexarelin with morphine enhances the antinociception and attenuates morphine tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayfun Baser
- Department of Physiology, Sivas Cumhuriyet University School of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Ercan Ozdemir
- Department of Physiology, Sivas Cumhuriyet University School of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Kemal Filiz
- Department of Physiology, Sivas Cumhuriyet University School of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Sevki Taskiran
- Department of Physiology, Sivas Cumhuriyet University School of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
| | - Sinan Gursoy
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Sivas Cumhuriyet University School of Medicine, Sivas, Turkey
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N Mohammadi E, Louwies T, Pietra C, Northrup SR, Greenwood-Van Meerveld B. Attenuation of Visceral and Somatic Nociception by Ghrelin Mimetics. J Exp Pharmacol 2020; 12:267-274. [PMID: 32801950 PMCID: PMC7415447 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s249747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The anti-nociceptive properties of ghrelin have been demonstrated in alleviating inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Whether a ghrelin receptor-mediated mechanism attenuates visceral and somatic pain in the absence of active inflammation remains to be explored. Here, we investigate the efficacy of peripherally restricted (ipamorelin) and a globally active (HM01) selective ghrelin receptor agonist in an experimental model of non-inflammatory visceral hypersensitivity and somatic mechanical allodynia. Materials and Methods Visceral hypersensitivity was induced by dilute acetic acid (0.6%) infusion in the colon of rats in the absence of colonic epithelial inflammation. Ghrelin mimetics HM01 and ipamorelin were administered orally or intravenously, respectively. The ghrelin receptor antagonist H0900 was administered orally. Colonic sensitivity was assessed via a visceromotor behavioral response (VMR) quantified as the number of abdominal contractions in response to graded isobaric pressures (0-60 mmHg) of colorectal distension (CRD). Somatic mechanical allodynia was quantified by the number of ipsilateral paw withdrawals in response to a calibrated von Frey filament. Results Compared to vehicle controls, ghrelin mimetics HM01 and ipamorelin significantly attenuated colonic hypersensitivity and somatic allodynia. The anti-nociceptive effects of the ghrelin mimetics were blocked after administration of the ghrelin receptor antagonist H0900. Conclusion We have shown that ghrelin receptor-mediated mechanisms are involved in visceral and somatic hypersensitivity in the absence of active colonic inflammation. Furthermore, visceral and somatic hypersensitivity could be attenuated by a peripherally restricted ghrelin mimetic. These results highlight a potential novel approach for treating acute visceral and somatic pain by ghrelin mimetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan N Mohammadi
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Tijs Louwies
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | | | - Beverley Greenwood-Van Meerveld
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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Protein Kinase A Is Involved in Neuropathic Pain by Activating the p38MAPK Pathway to Mediate Spinal Cord Cell Apoptosis. Mediators Inflamm 2020; 2020:6420425. [PMID: 32273830 PMCID: PMC7125471 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6420425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a serious clinical problem to be solved. This study is aimed at investigating protein kinase A (PKA) expression in neuropathic pain and its possible mechanisms of involvement. A neuropathic pain-related gene expression dataset was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus, and differentially expressed genes were screened using the R software. cytoHubba was used to screen for hub genes. A spared nerve injury (SNI) rat model was established, and the paw withdrawal threshold was determined using von Frey filaments. Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression and cellular localization, respectively, of key proteins in the spinal cord. Western blot, ELISA, and TUNEL assays were used to detect cell signal transduction, inflammation, and apoptosis, respectively. Pka was identified as a key gene involved in neuropathic pain. After SNI, mechanical allodynia occurred, PKA expression in the spinal cord increased, the p38MAPK pathway was activated, and spinal cord inflammation and apoptosis occurred in rats. PKA colocalized with neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, and apoptotic cells were mainly neurons. Intrathecal injection of a PKA inhibitor not only relieved mechanical hyperalgesia, inflammatory reaction, and apoptosis in SNI rats but also inhibited p38MAPK pathway activation. However, intrathecal injection of a p38MAPK inhibitor attenuated mechanical hyperalgesia, inflammation, and apoptosis, but did not affect PKA expression. In conclusion, PKA is involved in neuropathic pain by activating the p38MAPK pathway to mediate spinal cord cell apoptosis.
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Peng Z, Zha L, Yang M, Li Y, Guo X, Feng Z. Effects of ghrelin on pGSK-3β and β-catenin expression when protects against neuropathic pain behavior in rats challenged with chronic constriction injury. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14664. [PMID: 31601982 PMCID: PMC6787073 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51140-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin has been shown to alleviate neuropathic pain by inhibiting the release of proinflammatory cytokines. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling in mediating the effect of ghrelin on neuropathic pain and to understand the associated mechanisms. Chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve was used to establish a rat model of neuropathic pain. Hyperalgesia and allodynia were evaluated by observing the mechanical withdrawal threshold and the thermal withdrawal latency. Wnt3a and β-catenin protein expression and GSK-3β phosphorylation were detected by western blotting analysis. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and IL-1β were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, we used immunohistochemical analysis to determine the levels of GSK-3β phosphorylation in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Intrathecal delivery of ghrelin effectively ameliorated CCI-induced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia at 7 and 14 days and reduced the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α. Ghrelin inhibited CCI-induced GSK-3β activation and β-catenin overexpression in the spinal dorsal horn. Moreover, intrathecal injection of ghrelin suppressed the activation of GSK-3β in the spinal dorsal horn of CCI rats, as assessed by immunohistochemical analysis. Our data indicated that ghrelin could markedly alleviate neuropathic pain by inhibiting the expression of β-catenin, via the suppression of GSK-3β activation, in the spinal cord of CCI rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyou Peng
- Department of Pain Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Leiqiong Zha
- Department of Pain Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meijuan Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunze Li
- Department of Pain Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuejiao Guo
- Department of Pain Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiying Feng
- Department of Pain Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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Han QQ, Huang HJ, Wang YL, Yang L, Pilot A, Zhu XC, Yu R, Wang J, Chen XR, Liu Q, Li B, Wu GC, Yu J. Ghrelin exhibited antidepressant and anxiolytic effect via the p38-MAPK signaling pathway in hippocampus. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 93:11-20. [PMID: 30853341 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin, a peptide derived from stomach, is an endogenous ligand for growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR). So far, the exact role of ghrelin in depression and anxiety is still being debated. The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) is known to be activated in response to various stress stimuli. Thus, we hypothesize that ghrelin has an antidepressant effect, to which the p38-MAPK signaling pathway significantly contributes. To test this hypothesis, chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) was used as a model of depression. We employed the adeno-associated virus-mediated siRNA approach to down-regulate GHSR expression in the hippocampus of mice in vivo. Both ghrelin and the p38 inhibitor, SB203580, were administered to identify the effect of ghrelin on depressive-like behavior of stressed mice and to better assess the role of the p38-MAPK signaling pathway in this process. We found that CSDS activated the endogenous ghrelin-GHSR in hippocampal neurons, which possibly resulted in opposing the formation of depression- and anxiety-like behaviors in mice. Furthermore, the p38-MAPK signaling pathway had an important role in the antidepressant effect of ghrelin. Therefore, we conclude that ghrelin may reduce CSDS-induced depression- and anxiety-like behaviors via inhibiting the p38-MAPK signaling pathway in hippocampal neurons of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Qin Han
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai 201318, China; Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hui-Jie Huang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ya-Lin Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Adam Pilot
- Sino-Danish College, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiao-Cang Zhu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Rui Yu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiao-Rong Chen
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qiong Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention of Shanghai, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Bing Li
- Center Laboratories, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Gen-Cheng Wu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jin Yu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institutes of Brain Science, Brain Science Collaborative Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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11
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Zheng H, Liang W, He W, Huang C, Chen Q, Yi H, Long L, Deng Y, Zeng M. Ghrelin attenuates sepsis-induced acute lung injury by inhibiting the NF-κB, iNOS, and Akt signaling in alveolar macrophages. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2019; 317:L381-L391. [PMID: 31242025 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00253.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin has proven to be protective against sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI) via anti-inflammatory effects. However, its mechanisms remain poorly understood. Alveolar macrophages (AMs) play a key role in mediating inflammatory responses during sepsis-induced ALI by secretion of cytokines and chemokines. This study was undertaken to investigate whether ghrelin suppresses inflammatory effects of AMs and therefore may help to attenuate sepsis-induced ALI. A sepsis model in rats was achieved using cecal ligation and puncture. Ghrelin treatment markedly improved histopathological changes in the lungs and reduced pulmonary inflammation in septic rats. NF-κB translocation and p-Akt and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activities in AMs from septic rats were suppressed by ghrelin. In vitro data indicated that ghrelin decreased the levels of LPS-induced IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, NF-κB translocation, and iNOS and Akt activities of AMs. Furthermore, the NF-κB/iNOS pathway or Akt signaling was positively correlated with LPS-induced inflammatory production of AMs in vitro. In conclusion, ghrelin exerts a protective role against sepsis-induced ALI probably by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines from AMs via inhibition of the NF-κB/iNOS pathway or Akt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haichong Zheng
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjie Liang
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanmei He
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunrong Huang
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingui Chen
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Yi
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lingli Long
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yubin Deng
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mian Zeng
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Microglial LOX-1/MAPKs/NF-κB positive loop promotes the vicious cycle of neuroinflammation and neural injury. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 70:187-200. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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13
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Zou YC, Li HH, Yang GG, Yin HD, Cai DZ, Liu G. Attenuated levels of ghrelin in synovial fluid is related to the disease severity of ankle post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Biofactors 2019; 45:463-470. [PMID: 30697843 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) of ankle joints results in pain and reduced joint function. Ghrelin, a 28-amino-acid polypeptide, has been previously identified as the first cognate natural ligand that binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor. In the present study, ghrelin has been validated to exert cartilage-protective and anti-inflammatory effects. The current study was aimed at investigating the potential role of the levels of serum and synovial fluid (SF) ghrelin on the severity of disease in patients suffering from ankle PTOA. Ninety-seven patients with ankle osteoarthritis who received an arthroscopical examination and debridement or replacement of the ankle joint were included in the study cohort. Meanwhile, 95 healthy individuals (whose age and sex were matched) who received periodic body checkups were enrolled as healthy controls. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to analyze the ghrelin levels in serum and SF. SF was also probed for cartilage degradation enzyme matrix metalloproteinases-3 (MMP-3) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), which is a known pro-inflammatory cytokine. The clinical evaluation was carried out using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot rating scale and visual analogue scale (VAS). The radiographic severity was evaluated using the modified Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) grading system. We scored for the modified Mankin's score to depict histopathological changes due to cartilage lesions. The diagnostic relevance of the ghrelin concentrations in the prediction of the radiographic grading (in comparison with MMP-3 and TNF-α) was evaluated by calculating the area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The serum abundance of ghrelin was not significantly altered between ankle PTOA patients and healthy controls. SF ghrelin was negatively correlated with radiographic progression determined by modified ankle K-L grades. In addition SF ghrelin concentrations were negatively related to VAS scores, and positively associated with AOFAS ankle-hindfoot rating. Moreover, SF ghrelin was inversely proportional to the expressions of MMP-3 and TNF-α. ROC analysis curve demonstrated that ghrelin serves as a favorable marker for the diagnosis of radiographic severity by modified ankle K-L grade. The ghrelin concentration in SF is negatively proportional to disease progression in patients suffering from ankle PTOA. Local administration of ghrelin may function as a decent adjuvant therapy to delay the progress of ankle PTOA. © 2019 BioFactors, 45(3):463-470, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Cong Zou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hai-Hong Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Guang-Gang Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Guangzhou Orthopedics Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Hai-Dong Yin
- Shunde Hospital of Southern Medical University, Foshan, China
| | - Dao-Zhang Cai
- Department of Joint Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Wu B, Liu Y, Liu F, Deng Q, Wang J, Han R, Zhang D, Chen J, Wei J. The antinociceptive effects and molecular mechanisms of ghrelin(1–7)-NH2 at the supraspinal level in acute pain in mice. Brain Res Bull 2019; 146:112-123. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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15
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Stutz B, Nasrallah C, Nigro M, Curry D, Liu ZW, Gao XB, Elsworth JD, Mintz L, Horvath TL. Dopamine neuronal protection in the mouse Substantia nigra by GHSR is independent of electric activity. Mol Metab 2019; 24:120-138. [PMID: 30833218 PMCID: PMC6531791 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Dopamine neurons in the Substantia nigra (SN) play crucial roles in control of voluntary movement. Extensive degeneration of this neuronal population is the cause of Parkinson's disease (PD). Many factors have been linked to SN DA neuronal survival, including neuronal pacemaker activity (responsible for maintaining basal firing and DA tone) and mitochondrial function. Dln-101, a naturally occurring splice variant of the human ghrelin gene, targets the ghrelin receptor (GHSR) present in the SN DA cells. Ghrelin activation of GHSR has been shown to protect SN DA neurons against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,5,6 tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) treatment. We decided to compare the actions of Dln-101 with ghrelin and identify the mechanisms associated with neuronal survival. Methods Histologial, biochemical, and behavioral parameters were used to evaluate neuroprotection. Inflammation and redox balance of SN DA cells were evaluated using histologial and real-time PCR analysis. Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADD) technology was used to modulate SN DA neuron electrical activity and associated survival. Mitochondrial dynamics in SN DA cells was evaluated using electron microscopy data. Results Here, we report that the human isoform displays an equivalent neuroprotective factor. However, while exogenous administration of mouse ghrelin electrically activates SN DA neurons increasing dopamine output, as well as locomotion, the human isoform significantly suppressed dopamine output, with an associated decrease in animal motor behavior. Investigating the mechanisms by which GHSR mediates neuroprotection, we found that dopamine cell-selective control of electrical activity is neither sufficient nor necessary to promote SN DA neuron survival, including that associated with GHSR activation. We found that Dln101 pre-treatment diminished MPTP-induced mitochondrial aberrations in SN DA neurons and that the effect of Dln101 to protect dopamine cells was dependent on mitofusin 2, a protein involved in the process of mitochondrial fusion and tethering of the mitochondria to the endoplasmic reticulum. Conclusions Taken together, these observations unmasked a complex role of GHSR in dopamine neuronal protection independent on electric activity of these cells and revealed a crucial role for mitochondrial dynamics in some aspects of this process. Dln101 is a human splice-variant of the ghrelin gene with different expression pattern. Ghrelin and Dln101 display equivalent levels of neuroprotection of SN DA cells. Modulation of electrical activity of SN DA cells is not relevant for neuroprotection. Mitochondrial fusion protein 2 (MFN 2) blocks DLN101-induced mitochondrial fusion in SN DA neurons and prevents DLN101-induced neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Stutz
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Department of Comparative Medicine, USA.
| | - Carole Nasrallah
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Department of Comparative Medicine, USA; Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, USA
| | - Mariana Nigro
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, USA
| | | | - Zhong-Wu Liu
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Department of Comparative Medicine, USA
| | - Xiao-Bing Gao
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Department of Comparative Medicine, USA
| | | | | | - Tamas L Horvath
- Program in Integrative Cell Signaling and Neurobiology of Metabolism, Department of Comparative Medicine, USA; Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, 1078, Hungary.
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16
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Sirtuin 1 alleviates diabetic neuropathic pain by regulating synaptic plasticity of spinal dorsal horn neurons. Pain 2019; 160:1082-1092. [DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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17
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Xu J, Casserly E, Yin Y, Cheng J. A Systematic Review of Growth Hormone in Pain Medicine: From Rodents to Humans. PAIN MEDICINE 2019; 21:21-31. [PMID: 30615177 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pny280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Growth hormone (GH) and GH-related signaling molecules play an important role in nociception and development of chronic pain. This review aims to examine the potential molecular mechanisms through which GH-related signaling modulates sensory hypersensitivity in rodents, the clinical pharmacology of GH, and the clinical evidence of GH treatment for several common pain syndromes.
Methods
A search was conducted using the PUBMED/MEDLINE database, Scopus, and the Cochrane library for all reports published in English on GH in pain management from inception through May 2018. A critical review was performed on the mechanisms of GH-related signaling and the pharmacology of GH. The levels of clinical evidence and implications for recommendations of all of the included studies were graded.
Results
The search yielded 379 articles, of which 201 articles were deemed irrelevant by reading the titles. There were 53 reports deemed relevant after reading abstracts. All of these 53 articles were retrieved for the analysis and discussion.
Conclusions
Dysfunction of the GH/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)/ghrelin axis was linked to hyperalgesia and several common clinical pain syndromes. Low levels of GH and IGF-1 were linked to pain hypersensitivity, whereas ghrelin appeared to provide analgesic effects. Pretreatment of GH reversed mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity in an animal model of inflammatory pain. Clinical trials support GH treatment in a subgroup of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (level of evidence: 1B+) or chronic lower back pain syndrome (level of evidence: 2C+).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jijun Xu
- Department of Pain Management, Anesthesiology Institute
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Yan Yin
- Department of Pain Management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianguo Cheng
- Department of Pain Management, Anesthesiology Institute
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Thudium CS, Löfvall H, Karsdal MA, Bay-Jensen AC, Bihlet AR. Protein biomarkers associated with pain mechanisms in osteoarthritis. J Proteomics 2019; 190:55-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2018.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Ghrelin agonist HM01 attenuates chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity in rodent models. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 840:89-103. [PMID: 30268665 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neurotoxicity (CIPN) is often dose-limiting and impacts life quality and survival of cancer patients. Ghrelin agonists have neuroprotectant effects and may have a role in treating or preventing CIPN. We evaluated the CNS-penetrant ghrelin agonist HM01 in three experimental models of CIPN at doses of 3-30 mg/kg p.o. daily monitoring orexigenic properties, nerve conduction, mechanical allodynia, and intra-epidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD). In a cisplatin-based study, rats were dosed daily for 3 days (0.5 mg/kg i.p.) + HM01. Cisplatin treatment induced mechanical hypersensitivity which was significantly reduced by HM01. In a second study, oxaliplatin was administered to mice (6 mg/kg i.p. 3 times/week for 4 weeks) resulting in significant digital nerve conduction velocity (NCV) deficits and reduction of IENFD. Concurrent HM01 dose dependently prevented the decline in NCV and attenuated the reduction in IENFD. Pharmacokinetic studies showed HM01 accumulation in the dorsal root ganglia and sciatic nerves which reached concentrations > 10 fold that of plasma. In a third model, HM01 was tested in preventive and therapeutic paradigms in a bortezomib-based rat model (0.2 mg/kg i.v., 3 times/week for 8 weeks). In the preventive setting, HM01 blocked bortezomib-induced hyperalgesia and IENFD reduction at all doses tested. In the therapeutic setting, significant effect was observed, but only at the highest dose. Altogether, the robust peripheral nervous system penetration of HM01 and its ability to improve multiple oxaliplatin-, cisplatin-, and bortezomib-induced neurotoxicities suggest that HM01 may be a useful neuroprotective adjuvant for CIPN.
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Ma L, Liu H, Chen G, Chen M, Wang L, Zhang X, Liu D, Meng C. Sulfasalazine attenuates chronic constriction injury-induced neuroinflammation and mechanical hypersensitivity in rats. Neurosci Lett 2018; 683:174-180. [PMID: 30075286 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a severe and chronic neurological disease caused by injury or disease of the somatosensory system. Currently, there are no effective treatments for neuropathic pain. Neuroinflammation, characterized by activation of spinal glial cells and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (for example, IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6), is a pathophysiological process closely related to neuropathic pain. The anti-inflammatory drug sulfasalazine (SFZ) is approved for inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Although the analgesic effect of SFZ has been reported in diabetic mice, its role in neuropathic pain caused by peripheral nerve injury has not been clarified. Here, we show that SFZ significantly alleviated mechanical hypersensitivity and attenuated neuroinflammatory response in neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) in rats. Additionally, SFZ inhibited the activation of astrocytes and abolished the CCI-induced increase of NF-κB in the spinal cord. Hence, our results show that SFZ is a potential treatment for neuropathic pain induced by peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longfei Ma
- Graduate School of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China
| | - Hongmei Liu
- Department of Pathological Teaching and Research, Jining Medical University, 133 Hehua Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China
| | - Guowu Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China
| | - Mingtai Chen
- The Central Laboratory of Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China
| | - Lina Wang
- The Central Laboratory of Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China
| | - Daiqiang Liu
- Graduate School of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China
| | - Chunyang Meng
- Department of Spine Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining, Shandong Province, 272000, China.
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Glucocorticoid receptor inhibit the activity of NF-κB through p38 signaling pathway in spinal cord in the spared nerve injury rats. Life Sci 2018; 208:268-275. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Farajdokht F, Mohaddes G, Shanehbandi D, Karimi P, Babri S. Ghrelin attenuated hyperalgesia induced by chronic nitroglycerin: CGRP and TRPV1 as targets for migraine management. Cephalalgia 2017; 38:1716-1730. [DOI: 10.1177/0333102417748563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background According to the neurovascular theory of migraine, activation of the trigeminovascular system contributes to the development of migraine. This study examined the effects of chronic intraperitoneal ghrelin (150 µg/kg) treatment on the development of chronic migraine induced by intermittent injection of nitroglycerin 10 mg/kg. Methods Baseline and post-drug (2 h following nitroglycerin injection) mechanical and thermal sensitivity were assessed by von Frey hair and tail immersion tests, respectively on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11. Moreover, we investigated the effect of ghrelin treatment on nitroglycerin-induced aversive behavior by using a two-chamber conditioned place aversion paradigm. At the end of behavioral testing, on day 11, animals were sacrificed and plasma concentration of calcitonin gene-related peptide was measured using a rat-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Also, real time polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify mRNA expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 in the trigeminal ganglion. Results Our results indicated that nitroglycerin activated the trigeminovascular system, which was reflected by mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity and elevation of mRNA expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide and transient receptor potential vanilloid-1, as migraine markers, and plasma calcitonin gene-related peptide levels. Moreover, chronic nitroglycerin injection induced conditioned place aversion and body weight loss. Nevertheless, ghrelin modulated nitroglycerin-triggered changes in transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 and calcitonin gene-related peptide expression, and mitigated nitroglycerin-induced hyperalgesia. Conclusion These results provide the first convincing evidence that ghrelin has a modulating effect on central sensitization induced by chronic intermittent nitroglycerin, and its antinociceptive effect may be related to a reduction of these factors in the trigeminal ganglion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Farajdokht
- Neurosciences Research Center (NSRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Gisou Mohaddes
- Neurosciences Research Center (NSRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Dariush Shanehbandi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Pouran Karimi
- Neurosciences Research Center (NSRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shirin Babri
- Neurosciences Research Center (NSRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Niu J, Huang D, Zhou R, Yue M, Xu T, Yang J, He L, Tian H, Liu X, Zeng J. Activation of dorsal horn cannabinoid CB2 receptor suppresses the expression of P2Y 12 and P2Y 13 receptors in neuropathic pain rats. J Neuroinflammation 2017; 14:185. [PMID: 28899427 PMCID: PMC5596460 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-0960-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background More evidence suggests that dorsal spinal cord microglia is an important site contributing to CB2 receptor-mediated analgesia. The upregulation of P2Y12 and P2Y13 purinoceptors in spinal dorsal horn microglia is involved in the development of pain behavior caused by peripheral nerve injury. However, it is not known whether the expression of P2Y12 and P2Y13 receptors at spinal dorsal horn will be influenced after CB2 receptor activation in neuropathic pain rats. Methods Chronic constriction injury (CCI) and intrathecal ADPbetaS injection were performed in rats to induce neuropathic pain. The paw withdrawal latency (PWL) was used to evaluate thermal hyperalgesia in neuropathic rats. The expression of P2Y12 and P2Y13 receptors, p-p38MAPK, and NF-kappaBp65 was detected with RT-PCR and western blotting analysis. Results Treatment with AM1241 produces a pronounced inhibition of CCI-induced thermal hyperalgesia and significantly inhibited the increased expression of P2Y12 and P2Y13 receptors at the mRNA and protein levels, which open up the possibility that P2Y12 and P2Y13 receptor expression are downregulated by CB2 receptor agonist AM1241 in CCI rats. Western blot analysis demonstrated that AM1241 reduced the elevated expression of p-p38MAPK and NF-κBp65 in the dorsal spinal cord induced by CCI. After administration with either SB203580 (p38MAPK inhibitor) or PDTC (NF-kappaB inhibitor), the levels of P2Y13 receptor expression in the dorsal spinal cord were lower than those in the CCI group. However, in CCI rats, the increased expression of P2Y12 receptor was prevented by intrathecal administration of PDTC but not by SB203580. In addition, minocycline significantly decreased the increased expression of P2Y12 and P2Y13 receptors. The similar results can be observed in ADPbetaS-treated rats. Intrathecal injection of ADPbataS causes thermal hyperalgesia and increased expression of P2Y12 and P2Y13 receptors in the dorsal spinal cord of naive rats. Moreover, intrathecal injection of AM1241 alleviates pain response and reduces the elevated expression of P2Y12 and P2Y13 receptors, p-p38MAPK, and NF-κBp65 in the dorsal spinal cord of ADPbetaS-treated rats. Intrathecal injection of SB203580 significantly inhibited the ADPbetaS-induced P2Y13 receptor expression, without affecting P2Y12 receptor expression. However, treatment with either SB203580 or PDTC effectively inhibited P2Y13 receptor expression compared to ADPbetaS-treated rats. Conclusions In CCI- and ADPbetaS-treated rats, AM1241 pretreatment could efficiently activate CB2 receptor, while inhibiting p38MAPK and NF-kappaB activation in the dorsal spinal cord. CB2 receptor stimulation decreased P2Y13 receptor expression via p38MAPK/NF-kappaB signaling. On the other hand, CB2 receptor activation decreased P2Y12 receptor expression via p38MAPK-independent NF-kappaB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Niu
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - Dujuan Huang
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - MingXia Yue
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - Junna Yang
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - Li He
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - Hong Tian
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - XiaoHong Liu
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China
| | - Junwei Zeng
- Department of Physiology, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, Guizhou province, 563006, China.
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Wu J, Wang K, Xu J, Ruan G, Zhu Q, Cai J, Ren J, Zheng S, Zhu Z, Otahal P, Ding C. Associations between serum ghrelin and knee symptoms, joint structures and cartilage or bone biomarkers in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2017; 25:1428-1435. [PMID: 28602782 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2017.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Revised: 05/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The roles of ghrelin in knee osteoarthritis (OA) are unclear. This study aimed to examine cross-sectional associations of ghrelin with knee symptoms, joint structures and cartilage or bone biomarkers in patients with knee OA. METHODS This study included 146 patients with symptomatic knee OA. Serum levels of ghrelin and cartilage or bone biomarkers including cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), cross linked C-telopeptide of type I collagen (CTXI), cross linked N-telopeptide of type I collagen (NTXI), N-terminal procollagen III propeptide (PIIINP), and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, 10, 13 were measured using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Knee symptoms were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). Infrapatellar fat pad (IPFP) volume, IPFP signal intensity alternation, cartilage defects, bone marrow lesions (BMLs) and effusion-synovitis were assessed using the (MRI). Osteophytes and joint space narrowing (JSN) were assessed using the Osteoarthritis Research Society International atlas. RESULTS After adjustment for potential confounders, ghrelin quartiles were positively associated with knee symptoms including pain, stiffness, dysfunction and total score (quartile 4 vs 1: β 24.19, 95% CI 8.13-40.25). Ghrelin quartiles were also significantly associated with increased IPFP signal intensity alteration (quartile 4 vs 1: OR 3.57, 95% CI 1.55-8.25) and NTXI, PIIINP, MMP3 and MMP13. Ghrelin was not significantly associated with other joint structures and biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS Serum levels of ghrelin were significantly associated with increased knee symptoms, IPFP signal intensity alteration and serum levels of MMP3, MMP13, NTXI and PIIINP, suggesting that ghrelin may have a role to play in knee OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China.
| | - K Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China; Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia.
| | - J Xu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China.
| | - G Ruan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China.
| | - Q Zhu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China.
| | - J Cai
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China.
| | - J Ren
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China.
| | - S Zheng
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia.
| | - Z Zhu
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia.
| | - P Otahal
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia.
| | - C Ding
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Arthritis Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 218 Jixi Street, Hefei, China; Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 23, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia; Institute of Bone & Joint Translational Research, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Rikkunshito prevents paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy through the suppression of the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) phosphorylation in spinal cord of mice. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171819. [PMID: 28182729 PMCID: PMC5300261 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy is the major side effect caused by paclitaxel, a microtubule-binding antineoplastic drug. Paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy causes a long-term negative impact on the patient's quality of life. However, the mechanism underlying paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy is still unknown, and there is no established treatment. Ghrelin is known to attenuate thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia in chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve, and inhibit the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) in the spinal dorsal horn. Rikkunshito (RKT), a kampo medicine, increases the secretion of ghrelin in rodents and humans. Thus, RKT may attenuate paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy by inhibiting phosphorylated NFκB (pNFκB) in the spinal cord. We found that paclitaxel dose-dependently induced mechanical hyperalgesia in mice. Paclitaxel increased the protein levels of spinal pNFκB, but not those of spinal NFκB. NFκB inhibitor attenuated paclitaxel-induced mechanical hyperalgesia suggesting that the activation of NFκB mediates paclitaxel-induced hyperalgesia. RKT dose-dependently attenuated paclitaxel-induced mechanical hyperalgesia. Ghrelin receptor antagonist reversed the RKT-induced attenuation of paclitaxel-induced mechanical hyperalgesia. RKT inhibited the paclitaxel-induced increase in the protein levels of spinal pNFκB. Taken together, the present study indicates that RKT exerts an antihyperalgesic effect in paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain by suppressing the activation of spinal NFκB.
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From Belly to Brain: Targeting the Ghrelin Receptor in Appetite and Food Intake Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18020273. [PMID: 28134808 PMCID: PMC5343809 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18020273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ghrelin is the only known peripherally-derived orexigenic hormone, increasing appetite and subsequent food intake. The ghrelinergic system has therefore received considerable attention as a therapeutic target to reduce appetite in obesity as well as to stimulate food intake in conditions of anorexia, malnutrition and cachexia. As the therapeutic potential of targeting this hormone becomes clearer, it is apparent that its pleiotropic actions span both the central nervous system and peripheral organs. Despite a wealth of research, a therapeutic compound specifically targeting the ghrelin system for appetite modulation remains elusive although some promising effects on metabolic function are emerging. This is due to many factors, ranging from the complexity of the ghrelin receptor (Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor, GHSR-1a) internalisation and heterodimerization, to biased ligand interactions and compensatory neuroendocrine outputs. Not least is the ubiquitous expression of the GHSR-1a, which makes it impossible to modulate centrally-mediated appetite regulation without encroaching on the various peripheral functions attributable to ghrelin. It is becoming clear that ghrelin’s central signalling is critical for its effects on appetite, body weight regulation and incentive salience of food. Improving the ability of ghrelin ligands to penetrate the blood brain barrier would enhance central delivery to GHSR-1a expressing brain regions, particularly within the mesolimbic reward circuitry.
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Neuropeptides and Microglial Activation in Inflammation, Pain, and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Mediators Inflamm 2017; 2017:5048616. [PMID: 28154473 PMCID: PMC5244030 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5048616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Revised: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells are responsible for immune surveillance within the CNS. They respond to noxious stimuli by releasing inflammatory mediators and mounting an effective inflammatory response. This is followed by release of anti-inflammatory mediators and resolution of the inflammatory response. Alterations to this delicate process may lead to tissue damage, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. Chronic pain, such as inflammatory or neuropathic pain, is accompanied by neuroimmune activation, and the role of glial cells in the initiation and maintenance of chronic pain has been the subject of increasing research over the last two decades. Neuropeptides are small amino acidic molecules with the ability to regulate neuronal activity and thereby affect various functions such as thermoregulation, reproductive behavior, food and water intake, and circadian rhythms. Neuropeptides can also affect inflammatory responses and pain sensitivity by modulating the activity of glial cells. The last decade has witnessed growing interest in the study of microglial activation and its modulation by neuropeptides in the hope of developing new therapeutics for treating neurodegenerative diseases and chronic pain. This review summarizes the current literature on the way in which several neuropeptides modulate microglial activity and response to tissue damage and how this modulation may affect pain sensitivity.
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Farajdokht F, Babri S, Karimi P, Mohaddes G. Ghrelin attenuates hyperalgesia and light aversion-induced by nitroglycerin in male rats. Neurosci Lett 2016; 630:30-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Liu FY, Zhang MM, Zeng P, Liu WW, Wang JL, Yang B, Dai Q, Wei J. Study on the molecular mechanism of antinociception induced by ghrelin in acute pain in mice. Peptides 2016; 83:1-7. [PMID: 27474249 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Ghrelin has been identified as the endogenous ligand for the GHS-R1α (growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1 alpha). Our previous experiments have indicated that ghrelin (i.c.v.) induces antinociceptive effects in acute pain in mice, and the effects were mediated through the central opioid receptors and GHS-R1α. However, which opioid receptor (OR) mediates the antinociceptive effects and the molecular mechanisms are also needed to be further explored. In the present study, the antinociceptive effects of ghrelin (i.c.v.) could be fully antagonized by δ-opioid receptor antagonist NTI. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein levels of δ-opioid peptide PENK and δ-opioid receptor OPRD were increased after i.c.v injection of ghrelin. Thus, it showed that the antinociception of ghrelin was correlated with the GHS-R1α and δ-opioid receptors. To explore which receptor was firstly activated by ghrelin, GHS-R1α antagonist [D-Lys(3)]-GHRP-6 was co-injection (i.c.v.) with deltorphin II (selective δ-opioid receptor agonist). Finally, the antinociception induced by deltorphin II wasn't blocked by the co-injection (i.c.v.) of [D-Lys(3)]-GHRP-6, indicating that the GHS-R1α isn't on the backward position of δ-opioid receptor. The results suggested that i.c.v. injection of ghrelin initially activated the GHS-R1α, which in turn increased the release of endogenous PENK to activation of OPRD to produce antinociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Yan Liu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Min-Min Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Ping Zeng
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Wen-Wen Liu
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Jing-Lei Wang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Bei Yang
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Qun Dai
- Medical Experimental Teaching Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Jie Wei
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Bayi Road 461, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China.
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Blanco AM, Sánchez-Bretaño A, Delgado MJ, Valenciano AI. Brain Mapping of Ghrelin O-Acyltransferase in Goldfish (Carassius Auratus): Novel Roles for the Ghrelinergic System in Fish? Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2016; 299:748-58. [PMID: 27064922 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ghrelin O-acyltransferase (GOAT) is the enzyme responsible for acylation of ghrelin, a gut-brain hormone with important roles in many physiological functions in vertebrates. Many aspects of GOAT remain to be elucidated, especially in fish, and particularly its anatomical distribution within the different brain areas has never been reported to date. The present study aimed to characterize the brain mapping of GOAT using RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry in a teleost, the goldfish (Carassius auratus). Results show that goat transcripts are expressed in different brain areas of the goldfish, with the highest levels in the vagal lobe. Using immunohistochemistry, we also report the presence of GOAT immunoreactive cells in different encephalic areas, including the telencephalon, some hypothalamic nuclei, pineal gland, optic tectum and cerebellum, although they are especially abundant in the hindbrain. Particularly, an important signal is observed in the vagal lobe and some fiber tracts of the brainstem, such as the medial longitudinal fasciculus, Mauthneri fasciculus, secondary gustatory tract and spinothalamic tract. Most of the forebrain areas where GOAT is detected, particularly the hypothalamic nuclei, also express the ghs-r1a ghrelin receptor and other appetite-regulating hormones (e.g., orexin and NPY), supporting the role of ghrelin as a modulator of food intake and energy balance in fish. Present results are the first report on the presence of GOAT in the brain using imaging techniques. The high presence of GOAT in the hindbrain is a novelty, and point to possible new functions for the ghrelinergic system in fish. Anat Rec, 299:748-758, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayelén M Blanco
- Department of Animal Physiology II, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Aída Sánchez-Bretaño
- Department of Animal Physiology II, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - María J Delgado
- Department of Animal Physiology II, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Ana I Valenciano
- Department of Animal Physiology II, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University, Madrid, 28040, Spain
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Fan LY, Wang ZC, Wang P, Lan YY, Tu L. Exogenous nerve growth factor protects the hypoglossal nerve against crush injury. Neural Regen Res 2016; 10:1982-8. [PMID: 26889186 PMCID: PMC4730822 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.172316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have shown that sensory nerve damage can activate the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, but whether the same type of nerve injury after exercise activates the p38MAPK pathway remains unclear. Several studies have demonstrated that nerve growth factor may play a role in the repair process after peripheral nerve injury, but there has been little research focusing on the hypoglossal nerve injury and repair. In this study, we designed and established rat models of hypoglossal nerve crush injury and gave intraperitoneal injections of exogenous nerve growth factor to rats for 14 days. p38MAPK activity in the damaged neurons was increased following hypoglossal nerve crush injury; exogenous nerve growth factor inhibited this increase in acitivity and increased the survival rate of motor neurons within the hypoglossal nucleus. Under transmission electron microscopy, we found that the injection of nerve growth factor contributed to the restoration of the morphology of hypoglossal nerve after crush injury. Our experimental findings indicate that exogenous nerve growth factor can protect damaged neurons and promote hypoglossal nerve regeneration following hypoglossal nerve crush injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Yuan Fan
- Department of Prosthodontics, Stomatological Hospital of Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China; Orofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration Laboratory, Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhong-Chao Wang
- Orofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration Laboratory, Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China; Department of Endodontics, Stomatological Hospital of Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Pin Wang
- Department of Prosthodontics, Stomatological Hospital of Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China; Orofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration Laboratory, Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yu-Yan Lan
- Department of Prosthodontics, Stomatological Hospital of Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China; Orofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration Laboratory, Sichuan Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ling Tu
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China
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