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Dall'Olmo L, Papa N, Surdo NC, Marigo I, Mocellin S. Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH): biology, clinical relevance and implication in melanoma. J Transl Med 2023; 21:562. [PMID: 37608347 PMCID: PMC10463388 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04405-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and its receptor, melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), have been proposed as potential target for anti-cancer strategies in melanoma research, due to their tissue specific expression and involvement in melanocyte homeostasis. However, their role in prevention and treatment of melanoma is still debated and controversial. Although a large body of evidence supports α-MSH in preventing melanoma development, some preclinical findings suggest that the α-MSH downstream signalling may promote immune escape and cancer resistance to therapy. Additionally, in metastatic melanoma both MC1R and α-MSH have been reported to be overexpressed at levels much higher than normal cells. Furthermore, targeted therapy (e.g. BRAF inhibition in BRAFV600E mutant tumours) has been shown to enhance this phenomenon. Collectively, these data suggest that targeting MC1R could serve as an approach in the treatment of metastatic melanoma. In this review, we explore the molecular biology of α-MSH with particular emphasis into its tumor-related properties, whilst elaborating the experimental evidence currently available regarding the interplay between α-MSH/MC1R axis, melanoma and antitumor strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Dall'Olmo
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy.
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy.
| | - Nicole Papa
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Concetta Surdo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 35121, Padua, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine VIMM, Foundation for Advanced Biomedical Research, 35129, Padua, Italy
| | - Ilaria Marigo
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Simone Mocellin
- Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, Padua University, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, 35128, Padua, Italy
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2
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Haque R, Das II, Sawant PB, Chadha NK, Sahoo L, Kumar R, Sundaray JK. Tenets in Microbial Endocrinology: A New Vista in Teleost Reproduction. Front Physiol 2022; 13:871045. [PMID: 36035477 PMCID: PMC9411670 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.871045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate vulnerability and induced changes in physico-chemical properties of aquatic environment can bring impairment in metabolism, physiology and reproduction in teleost. Variation in environmental stimuli mainly acts on reproduction by interfering with steroidogenesis, gametogenesis and embryogenesis. The control on reproductive function in captivity is essential for the sustainability of aquaculture production. There are more than 3,000 teleost species across the globe having commercial importance; however, adequate quality and quantity of seed production have been the biggest bottleneck. Probiotics are widely used in aquaculture as a growth promoter, stress tolerance, pathogen inhibition, nutrient digestibility and metabolism, reproductive performance and gamete quality. As the gut microbiota exerts various effects on the intestinal milieu which influences distant organs and pathways, therefore it is considered to be a full-fledged endocrine organ. Researches on Gut-Brain-Gonad axis (GBG axis) and its importance on physiology and reproduction have already been highlighted for higher mammals; however, the study on fish physiology and reproduction is limited. While looking into the paucity of information, we have attempted to review the present status of microbiome and its interaction between the brain and gut. This review will address a process of the microbiome physiological mechanism involved in fish reproduction. The gut microbiota influences the BPG axis through a wide variety of compounds, including neuropeptides, neurotransmitter homologs and transmitters. Currently, research is being conducted to determine the precise process by which gut microbial composition influences brain function in fish. The gut-brain bidirectional interaction can influence brain biochemistry such as GABA, serotonin and tryptophan metabolites which play significant roles in CNS regulation. This review summarizes the fact, how microbes from gut, skin and other parts of the body influence fish reproduction through the Gut-Brain-Gonad axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramjanul Haque
- Division of Aquaculture, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, India
| | - Ipsita Iswari Das
- Fish Genetics and Biotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar, India
| | | | - Narinder Kumar Chadha
- Division of Aquaculture, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, India
| | - Lakshman Sahoo
- Fish Genetics and Biotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Aquaculture Production and Environment Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Jitendra Kumar Sundaray
- Fish Genetics and Biotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar, India
- *Correspondence: Jitendra Kumar Sundaray,
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3
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Augustyniak D, Kramarska E, Mackiewicz P, Orczyk-Pawiłowicz M, Lundy FT. Mammalian Neuropeptides as Modulators of Microbial Infections: Their Dual Role in Defense versus Virulence and Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073658. [PMID: 33915818 PMCID: PMC8036953 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulation of infection and inflammation by a variety of host peptides may represent an evolutionary failsafe in terms of functional degeneracy and it emphasizes the significance of host defense in survival. Neuropeptides have been demonstrated to have similar antimicrobial activities to conventional antimicrobial peptides with broad-spectrum action against a variety of microorganisms. Neuropeptides display indirect anti-infective capacity via enhancement of the host’s innate and adaptive immune defense mechanisms. However, more recently concerns have been raised that some neuropeptides may have the potential to augment microbial virulence. In this review we discuss the dual role of neuropeptides, perceived as a double-edged sword, with antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and protozoa but also capable of enhancing virulence and pathogenicity. We review the different ways by which neuropeptides modulate crucial stages of microbial pathogenesis such as adhesion, biofilm formation, invasion, intracellular lifestyle, dissemination, etc., including their anti-infective properties but also detrimental effects. Finally, we provide an overview of the efficacy and therapeutic potential of neuropeptides in murine models of infectious diseases and outline the intrinsic host factors as well as factors related to pathogen adaptation that may influence efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Augustyniak
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Wroclaw, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-71-375-6296
| | - Eliza Kramarska
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Wroclaw, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland;
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Paweł Mackiewicz
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Wroclaw, 50-383 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | | | - Fionnuala T. Lundy
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK;
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4
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Racine PJ, Janvier X, Clabaut M, Catovic C, Souak D, Boukerb AM, Groboillot A, Konto-Ghiorghi Y, Duclairoir-Poc C, Lesouhaitier O, Orange N, Chevalier S, Feuilloley MGJ. Dialog between skin and its microbiota: Emergence of "Cutaneous Bacterial Endocrinology". Exp Dermatol 2020; 29:790-800. [PMID: 32682345 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Microbial endocrinology is studying the response of microorganisms to hormones and neurohormones and the microbiota production of hormones-like molecules. Until now, it was mainly applied to the gut and revealed that the intestinal microbiota should be considered as a real organ in constant and bilateral interactions with the whole human body. The skin harbours the second most abundant microbiome and contains an abundance of nerve terminals and capillaries, which in addition to keratinocytes, fibroblasts, melanocytes, dendritic cells and endothelial cells, release a huge diversity of hormones and neurohormones. In the present review, we will examine recent experimental data showing that, in skin, molecules such as substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptide, natriuretic peptides and catecholamines can directly affect the physiology and virulence of common skin-associated bacteria. Conversely, bacteria are able to synthesize and release compounds including histamine, glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid or peptides showing partial homology with neurohormones such as α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (αMSH). The more surprising is that some viruses can also encode neurohormones mimicking proteins. Taken together, these elements demonstrate that there is also a cutaneous microbial endocrinology and this emerging concept will certainly have important consequences in dermatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Jean Racine
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Xavier Janvier
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Maximilien Clabaut
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Chloe Catovic
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Djouhar Souak
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Amine M Boukerb
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Anne Groboillot
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Yoan Konto-Ghiorghi
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Cécile Duclairoir-Poc
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Olivier Lesouhaitier
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Nicole Orange
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Sylvie Chevalier
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
| | - Marc G J Feuilloley
- Laboratory of Microbiology Signals and Microenvironment LMSM EA4312, University of Rouen Normandy, Normandie Université, Evreux, France
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5
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Prasad M, Lambe UP, Brar B, Shah I, J M, Ranjan K, Rao R, Kumar S, Mahant S, Khurana SK, Iqbal HMN, Dhama K, Misri J, Prasad G. Nanotherapeutics: An insight into healthcare and multi-dimensional applications in medical sector of the modern world. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 97:1521-1537. [PMID: 29793315 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Revised: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years nanotechnology has revolutionized the healthcare strategies and envisioned to have a tremendous impact to offer better health facilities. In this context, medical nanotechnology involves design, fabrication, regulation, and application of therapeutic drugs and devices having a size in nano-range (1-100 nm). Owing to the revolutionary implications in drug delivery and gene therapy, nanotherapeutics has gained increasing research interest in the current medical sector of the modern world. The areas which anticipate benefits from nano-based drug delivery systems are cancer, diabetes, infectious diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, blood disorders and orthopedic problems. The development of nanotherapeutics with multi-functionalities has considerable potential to fill the lacunae existing in the present therapeutic domain. Nanomedicines in the field of cancer management have enhanced permeability and retention of drugs thereby effectively targeting the affected tissues. Polymeric conjugates of asparaginase, polymeric micelles of paclitaxel have been recmended for various types of cancer treatment .The advancement of nano therapeutics and diagnostics can provide the improved effectiveness of the drug with less or no toxicity concerns. Similarly, diagnostic imaging is having potential future applications with newer imaging elements at nano level. The newly emerging field of nanorobotics can provide new directions in the field of healthcare. In this article, an attempt has been made to highlight the novel nanotherapeutic potentialities of polymeric nanoparticles, nanoemulsion, solid lipid nanoparticle, nanostructured lipid carriers, dendrimers, nanocapsules and nanosponges based approaches. The useful applications of these nano-medicines in the field of cancer, nutrition, and health have been discussed in details. Regulatory and safety concerns along with the commercial status of nanosystems have also been presented. In summary, a successful translation of emerging nanotherapeutics into commercial products may lead to an expansion of biomedical science. Towards the end of the review, future perspectives of this important field have been introduced briefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minakshi Prasad
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125004, India.
| | - Upendra P Lambe
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Basanti Brar
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Ikbal Shah
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Manimegalai J
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, LLR University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, 125004, India
| | - Koushlesh Ranjan
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, 250110, India
| | - Rekha Rao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Sunil Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Sheefali Mahant
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Sandip Kumar Khurana
- Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Sirsa Road, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Campus Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, N. L., CP 64849, Mexico
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, 243 122, India
| | - Jyoti Misri
- Division of Animal Health, Indian Council of Agriculture Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Gaya Prasad
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, 250110, India
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6
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Multiple beneficial effects of melanocortin MC 4 receptor agonists in experimental neurodegenerative disorders: Therapeutic perspectives. Prog Neurobiol 2016; 148:40-56. [PMID: 27916623 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2016.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Melanocortin peptides induce neuroprotection in acute and chronic experimental neurodegenerative conditions. Melanocortins likewise counteract systemic responses to brain injuries. Furthermore, they promote neurogenesis by activating critical signaling pathways. Melanocortin-induced long-lasting improvement in synaptic activity and neurological performance, including learning and memory, sensory-motor orientation and coordinated limb use, has been consistently observed in experimental models of acute and chronic neurodegeneration. Evidence indicates that the neuroprotective and neurogenic effects of melanocortins, as well as the protection against systemic responses to a brain injury, are mediated by brain melanocortin 4 (MC4) receptors, through an involvement of the vagus nerve. Here we discuss the targets and mechanisms underlying the multiple beneficial effects recently observed in animal models of neurodegeneration. We comment on the potential clinical usefulness of melanocortin MC4 receptor agonists as neuroprotective and neuroregenerative agents in ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and Alzheimer's disease.
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7
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Abstract
Emerging research has suggested that the skin is not only a target of organismal distress but also an active participant of the stress response through production of local "HPA axis" components, peripheral nerve endings, and resident skin cells, including keratinocytes, mast cells, and immune/immune accessory cells. There are also bidirectional communication pathways between the brain and the skin, which play significant roles in integrating these interactions. In this review, we summarize the intricate relations between stress and several skin conditions. We have tried to identify the underlying mechanisms that link stress to the common dermatoses according to the latest scientific findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Alexopoulos
- First Department of Pediatrics, 'Aghia Sophia' Children's Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - George P Chrousos
- First Department of Pediatrics, 'Aghia Sophia' Children's Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.
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8
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Singh J, Joshi S, Mumtaz S, Maurya N, Ghosh I, Khanna S, Natarajan VT, Mukhopadhyay K. Enhanced Cationic Charge is a Key Factor in Promoting Staphylocidal Activity of α-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone via Selective Lipid Affinity. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31492. [PMID: 27526963 PMCID: PMC4985751 DOI: 10.1038/srep31492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The steady rise in antimicrobial resistance poses a severe threat to global public health by hindering treatment of an escalating spectrum of infections. We have previously established the potent activity of α-MSH, a 13 residue antimicrobial peptide, against the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Here, we sought to determine whether an increase in cationic charge in α-MSH could contribute towards improving its staphylocidal potential by increasing its interaction with anionic bacterial membranes. For this we designed novel α-MSH analogues by replacing polar uncharged residues with lysine and alanine. Similar to α-MSH, the designed peptides preserved turn/random coil conformation in artificial bacterial mimic 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine:1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-rac-(1-glycerol) (7:3, w/w) vesicles and showed preferential insertion in the hydrophobic core of anionic membranes. Increased cationic charge resulted in considerable augmentation of antibacterial potency against MSSA and MRSA. With ~18-fold better binding than α-MSH to bacterial mimic vesicles, the most charged peptide KKK-MSH showed enhanced membrane permeabilization and depolarization activity against intact S. aureus. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed a membrane disruptive mode of action for KKK-MSH. Overall, increasing the cationic charge improved the staphylocidal activity of α-MSH without compromising its cell selectivity. The present study would help in designing more effective α-MSH-based peptides to combat clinically relevant staphylococcal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Singh
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Seema Joshi
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Sana Mumtaz
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Nancy Maurya
- Biochemistry and Environmental Toxicology Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Ilora Ghosh
- Biochemistry and Environmental Toxicology Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
| | - Shivangi Khanna
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mathura Road, New Delhi-110020, India
| | - Vivek T Natarajan
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Mathura Road, New Delhi-110020, India
| | - Kasturi Mukhopadhyay
- Antimicrobial Research Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-110067, India
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9
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Ryu S, Johnson A, Park Y, Kim B, Norris D, Armstrong CA, Song PI. The Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone Suppresses TLR2-Mediated Functional Responses through IRAK-M in Normal Human Keratinocytes. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0136887. [PMID: 26309029 PMCID: PMC4550463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0136887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is a highly conserved 13-aa neuropeptide derived from pro-opiomelanocortin by post-translational processing, which has been reported to exhibit potent anti-inflammatory activity and a wide range of immunosuppressive activities in the skin. However, the regulatory effect of α-MSH is not completely clear in cutaneous innate immunity. In this study, we investigate the functional regulation of α-MSH in TLR2-mediated inflammatory responses in normal human keratinocytes (HKs). α-MSH pretreatment down-regulated the Staphylococcus aureus LTA-induced expression of both TLR2 and IL-8 as well as NF-κB nuclear translocation in HK cells. The inhibitory effect of α-MSH was blocked by agouti signaling protein (ASP), an α-MSH receptor-1 antagonist. To investigate the mechanism of this response in more detail, siRNA of IRAK-M, a negative regulator of TLR signaling, was utilized in these studies. The α-MSH suppressive effect on IL-8 production and NF-κB transactivation was inhibited by IRAK-M siRNA transfection in HK cells. These results indicate that α-MSH is capable of suppressing keratinocyte TLR2-mediated inflammatory responses induced by S. aureus-LTA, thus demonstrating another novel immunomodulatory activity of α-MSH in normal human keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunhyo Ryu
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- Department of Biotechnology, Chosun University School of Medicine, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Andrew Johnson
- Department of Dermatology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Yoonkyung Park
- Department of Biotechnology, Chosun University School of Medicine, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Beomjoon Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - David Norris
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Cheryl A. Armstrong
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- Division of Dermatology, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PIS); (CAA)
| | - Peter I. Song
- Department of Dermatology, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PIS); (CAA)
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10
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Alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone: an emerging anti-inflammatory antimicrobial peptide. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:874610. [PMID: 25140322 PMCID: PMC4130143 DOI: 10.1155/2014/874610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 06/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is a neuropeptide belonging to the melanocortin family. It is well known for its anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects and shares several characteristics with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). There have been some recent reports about the direct antimicrobial activity of α-MSH against various microbes belonging to both fungal and bacterial pathogens. Similar to α-MSH's anti-inflammatory properties, its C-terminal residues also exhibit antimicrobial activity parallel to that of the entire peptide. This review is focused on the current findings regarding the direct antimicrobial potential and immunomodulatory mechanism of α-MSH and its C-terminal fragments, with particular emphasis on the prospects of α-MSH based peptides as a strong anti-infective agent.
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11
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Slominski AT, Zmijewski MA, Zbytek B, Tobin DJ, Theoharides TC, Rivier J. Key role of CRF in the skin stress response system. Endocr Rev 2013; 34:827-84. [PMID: 23939821 PMCID: PMC3857130 DOI: 10.1210/er.2012-1092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 280] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) or CRH defining the upper regulatory arm of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, along with the identification of the corresponding receptors (CRFRs 1 and 2), represents a milestone in our understanding of central mechanisms regulating body and local homeostasis. We focused on the CRF-led signaling systems in the skin and offer a model for regulation of peripheral homeostasis based on the interaction of CRF and the structurally related urocortins with corresponding receptors and the resulting direct or indirect phenotypic effects that include regulation of epidermal barrier function, skin immune, pigmentary, adnexal, and dermal functions necessary to maintain local and systemic homeostasis. The regulatory modes of action include the classical CRF-led cutaneous equivalent of the central HPA axis, the expression and function of CRF and related peptides, and the stimulation of pro-opiomelanocortin peptides or cytokines. The key regulatory role is assigned to the CRFR-1α receptor, with other isoforms having modulatory effects. CRF can be released from sensory nerves and immune cells in response to emotional and environmental stressors. The expression sequence of peptides includes urocortin/CRF→pro-opiomelanocortin→ACTH, MSH, and β-endorphin. Expression of these peptides and of CRFR-1α is environmentally regulated, and their dysfunction can lead to skin and systemic diseases. Environmentally stressed skin can activate both the central and local HPA axis through either sensory nerves or humoral factors to turn on homeostatic responses counteracting cutaneous and systemic environmental damage. CRF and CRFR-1 may constitute novel targets through the use of specific agonists or antagonists, especially for therapy of skin diseases that worsen with stress, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej T Slominski
- MD, PhD, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center; 930 Madison Avenue, Suite 500, Memphis, Tennessee 38163.
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12
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Augustyniak D, Nowak J, Lundy FT. Direct and indirect antimicrobial activities of neuropeptides and their therapeutic potential. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2013; 13:723-38. [PMID: 23305360 PMCID: PMC3601409 DOI: 10.2174/138920312804871139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Revised: 07/07/2012] [Accepted: 09/15/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As global resistance to conventional antibiotics rises we need to develop new strategies to develop future novel therapeutics. In our quest to design novel anti-infectives and antimicrobials it is of interest to investigate host-pathogen interactions and learn from the complexity of host defense strategies that have evolved over millennia. A myriad of host defense molecules are now known to play a role in protection against human infection. However, the interaction between host and pathogen is recognized to be a multifaceted one, involving countless host proteins, including several families of peptides. The regulation of infection and inflammation by multiple peptide families may represent an evolutionary failsafe in terms of functional degeneracy and emphasizes the significance of host defense in survival. One such family is the neuropeptides (NPs), which are conventionally defined as peptide neurotransmitters but have recently been shown to be pleiotropic molecules that are integral components of the nervous and immune systems. In this review we address the antimicrobial and anti-infective effects of NPs both in vitro and in vivo and discuss their potential therapeutic usefulness in overcoming infectious diseases. With improved understanding of the efficacy of NPs, these molecules could become an important part of our arsenal of weapons in the treatment of infection and inflammation. It is envisaged that targeted therapy approaches that selectively exploit the anti-infective, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties of NPs could become useful adjuncts to our current therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Augustyniak
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Institute of Genetics and Microbiology, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland.
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Combination of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone with conventional antibiotics against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. PLoS One 2013; 8:e73815. [PMID: 24040081 PMCID: PMC3767696 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous studies revealed that alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is strongly active against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) including methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Killing due to α-MSH occurred by perturbation of the bacterial membrane. In the present study, we investigated the in vitro synergistic potential of α-MSH with five selected conventional antibiotics viz., oxacillin (OX), ciprofloxacin (CF), tetracycline (TC), gentamicin (GM) and rifampicin (RF) against a clinical MRSA strain which carried a type III staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) element and belonged to the sequence type (ST) 239. The strain was found to be highly resistant to OX (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) = 1024 µg/ml) as well as to other selected antimicrobial agents including α-MSH. The possibility of the existence of intracellular target sites of α-MSH was evaluated by examining the DNA, RNA and protein synthesis pathways. We observed a synergistic potential of α-MSH with GM, CF and TC. Remarkably, the supplementation of α-MSH with GM, CF and TC resulted in ≥64-, 8- and 4-fold reductions in their minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), respectively. Apart from membrane perturbation, in this study we found that α-MSH inhibited ∼53% and ∼47% DNA and protein synthesis, respectively, but not RNA synthesis. Thus, the mechanistic analogy between α-MSH and CF or GM or TC appears to be the reason for the observed synergy between them. In contrast, α-MSH did not act synergistically with RF which may be due to its inability to inhibit RNA synthesis (<10%). Nevertheless, the combination of α-MSH with RF and OX showed an enhanced killing by ∼45% and ∼70%, respectively, perhaps due to the membrane disrupting properties of α-MSH. The synergistic activity of α-MSH with antibiotics is encouraging, and promises to restore the lost potency of discarded antibiotics.
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Grieco P, Carotenuto A, Auriemma L, Limatola A, Di Maro S, Merlino F, Mangoni ML, Luca V, Di Grazia A, Gatti S, Campiglia P, Gomez-Monterrey I, Novellino E, Catania A. Novel α-MSH peptide analogues with broad spectrum antimicrobial activity. PLoS One 2013; 8:e61614. [PMID: 23626703 PMCID: PMC3634028 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous investigations indicate that α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) and certain synthetic analogues of it exert antimicrobial effects against bacteria and yeasts. However, these molecules have weak activity in standard microbiology conditions and this hampers a realistic clinical use. The aim in the present study was to identify novel peptides with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity in growth medium. To this purpose, the Gly10 residue in the [DNal(2′)-7, Phe-12]-MSH(6–13) sequence was replaced with conventional and unconventional amino acids with different degrees of conformational rigidity. Two derivatives in which Gly10 was replaced by the residues Aic and Cha, respectively, had substantial activity against Candida strains, including C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. krusei and against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Conformational analysis indicated that the helical structure along residues 8–13 is a key factor in antimicrobial activity. Synthetic analogues of α-MSH can be valuable agents to treat infections in humans. The structural preferences associated with antimicrobial activity identified in this research can help further development of synthetic melanocortins with enhanced biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Grieco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigia Auriemma
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Limatola
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Di Maro
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Merlino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Mangoni
- Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Science, ‘A. Rossi Fanelli’, University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Luca
- Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Science, ‘A. Rossi Fanelli’, University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Grazia
- Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Science, ‘A. Rossi Fanelli’, University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Gatti
- Center for Preclinical Investigation, Fondazione IRCCS Ca'Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Pietro Campiglia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Salerno, Italy
| | | | - Ettore Novellino
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Catania
- Center for Preclinical Investigation, Fondazione IRCCS Ca'Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Ji HX, Zou YL, Duan JJ, Jia ZR, Li XJ, Wang Z, Li L, Li YW, Liu GY, Tong MQ, Li XY, Zhang GH, Dai XR, He L, Li ZY, Cao C, Yang Y. The synthetic melanocortin (CKPV)2 exerts anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory effects against Candida albicans vaginitis via inducing macrophage M2 polarization. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56004. [PMID: 23457491 PMCID: PMC3573073 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2012] [Accepted: 01/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we examined anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory effects of the synthetic melanocortin peptide (Ac-Cys-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2)2 or (CKPV)2 against Candida albicans vaginitis. Our in vitro results showed that (CKPV)2 dose-dependently inhibited Candida albicans colonies formation. In a rat Candida albicans vaginitis model, (CKPV)2 significantly inhibited vaginal Candida albicans survival and macrophages sub-epithelial mucosa infiltration. For mechanisms study, we observed that (CKPV)2 inhibited macrophages phagocytosis of Candida albicans. Meanwhile, (CKPV)2 administration inhibited macrophage pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) release, while increasing the arginase activity and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 production, suggesting macrophages M1 to M2 polarization. Cyclic AMP (cAMP) production was also induced by (CKPV)2 administration in macrophages. These above effects on macrophages by (CKPV)2 were almost reversed by melanocortin receptor-1(MC1R) siRNA knockdown, indicating the requirement of MC1R in the process. Altogether, our results suggest that (CKPV)2 exerted anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory activities against Candida albicans vaginitis probably through inducing macrophages M1 to M2 polarization and MC1R activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-xia Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-lian Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing-jing Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-rong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xian-jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhuo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Department of Physiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong-wen Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Department of Physiology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gen-yan Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming-Qing Tong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-yi Li
- Hefei Zhaoke Pharmaceutical, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guo-hui Zhang
- Hefei Zhaoke Pharmaceutical, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang-rong Dai
- Hefei Zhaoke Pharmaceutical, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling He
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-yu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (YY); (CC); (ZL)
| | - Cong Cao
- Neuroscience Institute, Soochow University, Soochow, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (YY); (CC); (ZL)
| | - Yong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Academic Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (YY); (CC); (ZL)
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Seo MD, Won HS, Kim JH, Mishig-Ochir T, Lee BJ. Antimicrobial peptides for therapeutic applications: a review. Molecules 2012; 17:12276-86. [PMID: 23079498 PMCID: PMC6268056 DOI: 10.3390/molecules171012276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 325] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Revised: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 10/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have been considered as potential therapeutic sources of future antibiotics because of their broad-spectrum activities and different mechanisms of action compared to conventional antibiotics. Although AMPs possess considerable benefits as new generation antibiotics, their clinical and commercial development still have some limitations, such as potential toxicity, susceptibility to proteases, and high cost of peptide production. In order to overcome those obstacles, extensive efforts have been carried out. For instance, unusual amino acids or peptido-mimetics are introduced to avoid the proteolytic degradation and the design of short peptides retaining antimicrobial activities is proposed as a solution for the cost issue. In this review, we focus on small peptides, especially those with less than twelve amino acids, and provide an overview of the relationships between their three-dimensional structures and antimicrobial activities. The efforts to develop highly active AMPs with shorter sequences are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Duk Seo
- College of Pharmacy, Ajou University, Suwon 443-749, Korea
| | - Hyung-Sik Won
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biomedical and Health Science, Konkuk University, Chungju, Chungbuk 380-701, Korea
| | - Ji-Hun Kim
- Center for Structural Biology and Departments of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | | | - Bong-Jin Lee
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Korea
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; ; Tel.: +82-2-880-7869; Fax: +82-2-872-3632
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Giuliani D, Minutoli L, Ottani A, Spaccapelo L, Bitto A, Galantucci M, Altavilla D, Squadrito F, Guarini S. Melanocortins as potential therapeutic agents in severe hypoxic conditions. Front Neuroendocrinol 2012; 33:179-93. [PMID: 22531139 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Melanocortin peptides with the adrenocorticotropin/melanocyte-stimulating hormone (ACTH/MSH) sequences and synthetic analogs have protective and life-saving effects in experimental conditions of circulatory shock, myocardial ischemia, ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury, respiratory arrest, renal ischemia, intestinal ischemia and testicular ischemia, as well as in experimental heart transplantation. Moreover, melanocortins improve functional recovery and stimulate neurogenesis in experimental models of cerebral ischemia. These beneficial effects of ACTH/MSH-like peptides are mostly mediated by brain melanocortin MC(3)/MC(4) receptors, whose activation triggers protective pathways that counteract the main ischemia/reperfusion-related mechanisms of damage. Induction of signaling pathways and other molecular regulators of neural stem/progenitor cell proliferation, differentiation and integration seems to be the key mechanism of neurogenesis stimulation. Synthesis of stable and highly selective agonists at MC(3) and MC(4) receptors could provide the potential for development of a new class of drugs for a novel approach to management of severe ischemic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Renshaw D, Montero-Melendez T, Dalli J, Kamal A, Brancaleone V, D'Acquisto F, Cirino G, Perretti M. Downstream gene activation of the receptor ALX by the agonist annexin A1. PLoS One 2010; 5. [PMID: 20862244 PMCID: PMC2941452 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2010] [Accepted: 08/18/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our understanding of pro-resolution factors in determining the outcome of inflammation has recently gained ground, yet not many studies have investigated whether specific genes or patterns of genes, are modified by these mediators. Here, we have focussed on the glucocorticoid modulated pro-resolution factor annexin A1 (AnxA1), studying if its interaction with the ALX receptor would affect downstream genomic targets. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Using microarray technology in ALX transfected HEK293 cells, we discovered an over-lapping, yet distinct gene activation profile for AnxA1 compared to its N-terminal mimetic peptide Ac2-26, which may be suggestive of unique downstream inflammatory outcomes for each substance. When the up-regulated genes were explored, consistently induced was the sphingosine phosphate phosphatase-2 gene (SGPP2), involved in regulation of the sphingosine 1 phosphate chemotactic system. Up-regulation of this gene, as well as JAG1 (and down-regulation of JAM3), was confirmed using real time PCR both with transfected HEK293 cells and human peripheral blood leukocytes. Furthermore, lymph nodes taken from AnxA1(null) mice displayed lower SGPP2 gene activity. Finally, connectivity map analysis for AnxA1 and peptide Ac2-26 indicated striking similarities with known anti-inflammatory therapeutics, glucocorticoids and aspirin-like compounds, as well as with histone deacetylase inhibitors. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE We believe these new data raise the profile of AnxA1 from being solely a short-term anti-inflammatory factor, to being a 'trigger' of the endogenous pro-resolution arsenal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Renshaw
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Trinidad Montero-Melendez
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesmond Dalli
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmad Kamal
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vincenzo Brancaleone
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Fulvio D'Acquisto
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giuseppe Cirino
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Perretti
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Kumar P, Williams JN, Durkin KL, Heckels JE, Friedmann PS, Healy E, Christodoulides M. Neuropeptide alpha-MSH exerts pro-inflammatory effects on Neisseria meningitidis infection in vitro. Inflamm Res 2009; 59:105-13. [PMID: 19685205 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-009-0076-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2009] [Revised: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 07/27/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN alpha-Melanoycte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a neuropeptide hormone with reported anti-microbial and immuno-modulatory properties in vitro, has previously been detected in the cerebrospinal fluid of children with bacterial meningitis. We investigated the therapeutic effects of alpha-MSH administration on Neisseria meningitidis infection of human meningeal cell cultures in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS Meningeal cell lines (n = 2) were infected with meningococci (10(2)-10(8) cfu/monolayer), isolated bacterial outer membranes (OM; 1 microg/ml) or lipo-oligosaccharide (LOS; 1 microg/ml) with and without alpha-MSH (10(-5)-10 microM). Bacterial adherence was quantified at 6 h, and cytokine production and microbicidal activity of alpha-MSH for meningococci were assessed at 24 h. RESULTS Compared with infection by meningococci alone, alpha-MSH (10 microM) up-regulated secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 (mean values increased from approximately 33 to 60 ng/ml), RANTES (mean values increased from approximately 26 to 105 ng/ml) and GM-CSF (mean values increased from approximately 0.3 to 1 ng/ml; P < 0.05). Upregulated secretion correlated with a neuropeptide-mediated rapid and >5-fold increase (P < 0.05) in bacterial adherence to cells and was dependent on OM components including LOS acting synergistically with alpha-MSH. Meningococci were resistant to the anti-microbial activity of alpha-MSH at all concentrations tested. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that a potentially therapeutic neuropeptide exerts pro-inflammatory effects during meningococcal infection in vitro and its use in the treatment of meningitis is contra-indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawan Kumar
- Division of Infection, Inflammation and Immunity, Department of Dermatopharmacology, University of Southampton Medical School, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
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Romani AP, Ito AS. Interaction of adrenocorticotropin peptides with microheterogeneous systems — A fluorescence study. Biophys Chem 2009; 139:92-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2008.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2008] [Revised: 10/20/2008] [Accepted: 10/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Luger TA, Brzoska T. alpha-MSH related peptides: a new class of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating drugs. Ann Rheum Dis 2007; 66 Suppl 3:iii52-5. [PMID: 17934097 DOI: 10.1136/ard.2007.079780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
alpha-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) is a tridecapeptide derived from the proopiomelanocortin by post-translational processing. In addition to its effects on melanocytes, alpha-MSH has potent anti-inflammatory effects when administered systemically or locally. The anti-inflammatory effects of alpha-MSH are mediated by direct effects on cells of the immune system as well as indirectly by affecting the function of resident non-immune cells. alpha-MSH affects several pathways implicated in regulation of inflammatory responses such as NF-kappaB activation, expression of adhesion molecules and chemokine receptors, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other mediators. Thus alpha-MSH may modulate inflammatory cell proliferation, activity and migration. The anti-inflammatory effects of alpha-MSH have been confirmed by means of animal models of inflammation such as irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, cutaneous vasculitis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ocular and brain inflammation. Most of the anti-inflammatory activities of alpha-MSH can be attributed to its C-terminal tripeptide KPV. K(D)PT, a derivative of KPV corresponding to the amino acid 193-195 of IL-1beta, is currently emerging as another tripeptide with potent anti-inflammatory effects. The anti-inflammatory potential together with the favourable physiochemical properties most likely will allow these agents to be developed for the treatment of inflammatory skin, eye and bowel diseases, allergic asthma and arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Luger
- Department of Dermatology, University Clinics Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 58, D-48149 Münster, Germany.
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Photoprotective effects of glucomannan isolated from Candida utilis. Carbohydr Res 2007; 343:501-11. [PMID: 18067882 DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2007.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2007] [Revised: 11/08/2007] [Accepted: 11/11/2007] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Glucomannans belong to yeast and fungal cell wall polysaccharides with known immunostimulatory and radioprotective effects. However, glucomannan protective effects against pathological consequences of skin exposure to short wavelength solar light, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, are unclear. Herein, a highly branched glucomannan (GM) isolated from the cell wall of Candida utilis, a member of the alpha-(1-->6)-D-mannan group, was tested for its photoprotective effects in an in vitro model of UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes and an in vivo model of UV-induced erythema formation in human volunteers. GM suppressed the UVB-induced decrease of keratinocyte viability, which was connected with the suppression of UVB-induced keratinocyte apoptosis. GM reduced UVB-mediated caspase activation together with suppression of DNA fragment release into the cytoplasm. Furthermore, GM suppressed UVB-induced gene expression of pro-inflammatory markers including nuclear factor kappa B, inducible nitric oxide synthase, interleukins 8 and 1, together with suppression of prostaglandin E2 and interleukin 1alpha protein release. In vivo, GM decreased UV-induced skin erythema formation, which was correlated with a decrease of phosholipase A(2) activity within the stratum corneum. It could be concluded that GM isolated from C. utilis possesses significant photoprotective effects on human keratinocytes in vitro as well as in vivo.
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