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Chen J, Zou J, Huang P, Gao X, Lun J, Li Y, Gong Z, Cao H. KYNA Ameliorates Glutamate Toxicity of HAND by Enhancing Glutamate Uptake in A2 Astrocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4286. [PMID: 38673879 PMCID: PMC11050540 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084286] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Reactive astrocytes are key players in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), and different types of reactive astrocytes play opposing roles in the neuropathologic progression of HAND. A recent study by our group found that gp120 mediates A1 astrocytes (neurotoxicity), which secrete proinflammatory factors and promote HAND disease progression. Here, by comparing the expression of A2 astrocyte (neuroprotective) markers in the brains of gp120 tgm mice and gp120+/α7nAChR-/- mice, we found that inhibition of alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) promotes A2 astrocyte generation. Notably, kynurenine acid (KYNA) is an antagonist of α7nAChR, and is able to promote the formation of A2 astrocytes, the secretion of neurotrophic factors, and the enhancement of glutamate uptake through blocking the activation of α7nAChR/NF-κB signaling. In addition, learning, memory and mood disorders were significantly improved in gp120 tgm mice by intraperitoneal injection of kynurenine (KYN) and probenecid (PROB). Meanwhile, the number of A2 astrocytes in the mouse brain was significantly increased and glutamate toxicity was reduced. Taken together, KYNA was able to promote A2 astrocyte production and neurotrophic factor secretion, reduce glutamate toxicity, and ameliorate gp120-induced neuropathological deficits. These findings contribute to our understanding of the role that reactive astrocytes play in the development of HAND pathology and provide new evidence for the treatment of HAND via the tryptophan pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hong Cao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University (Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research), Guangzhou 510515, China; (J.C.)
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2
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Lemieux GA, Yoo S, Lin L, Vohra M, Ashrafi K. The steroid hormone ADIOL promotes learning by reducing neural kynurenic acid levels. Genes Dev 2023; 37:998-1016. [PMID: 38092521 PMCID: PMC10760639 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350745.123] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Reductions in brain kynurenic acid levels, a neuroinhibitory metabolite, improve cognitive function in diverse organisms. Thus, modulation of kynurenic acid levels is thought to have therapeutic potential in a range of brain disorders. Here we report that the steroid 5-androstene 3β, 17β-diol (ADIOL) reduces kynurenic acid levels and promotes associative learning in Caenorhabditis elegans We identify the molecular mechanisms through which ADIOL links peripheral metabolic pathways to neural mechanisms of learning capacity. Moreover, we show that in aged animals, which normally experience rapid cognitive decline, ADIOL improves learning capacity. The molecular mechanisms that underlie the biosynthesis of ADIOL as well as those through which it promotes kynurenic acid reduction are conserved in mammals. Thus, rather than a minor intermediate in the production of sex steroids, ADIOL is an endogenous hormone that potently regulates learning capacity by causing reductions in neural kynurenic acid levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Lemieux
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Shinja Yoo
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Mihir Vohra
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Kaveh Ashrafi
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
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3
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Higurashi S, Tsukada S, Aleogho BM, Park JH, Al-Hebri Y, Tanaka M, Nakano S, Mori I, Noma K. Bacterial diet affects the age-dependent decline of associative learning in Caenorhabditis elegans. eLife 2023; 12:81418. [PMID: 37252859 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The causality and mechanism of dietary effects on brain aging are still unclear due to the long time scales of aging. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has contributed to aging research because of its short lifespan and easy genetic manipulation. When fed the standard laboratory diet, Escherichia coli, C. elegans experiences an age-dependent decline in temperature-food associative learning, called thermotaxis. To address if diet affects this decline, we screened 35 lactic acid bacteria as alternative diet and found that animals maintained high thermotaxis ability when fed a clade of Lactobacilli enriched with heterofermentative bacteria. Among them, Lactobacillus reuteri maintained the thermotaxis of aged animals without affecting their lifespan and motility. The effect of Lb. reuteri depends on the DAF-16 transcription factor functioning in neurons. Furthermore, RNA sequencing analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes between aged animals fed different bacteria were enriched with DAF-16 targets. Our results demonstrate that diet can impact brain aging in a daf-16-dependent manner without changing the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Higurashi
- Milk Science Research Institute, Megmilk Snow Brand Co. Ltd., Saitama, Japan
- Group of Nutritional Neuroscience, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Sachio Tsukada
- Milk Science Research Institute, Megmilk Snow Brand Co. Ltd., Saitama, Japan
- Group of Nutritional Neuroscience, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Binta Maria Aleogho
- Group of Nutritional Neuroscience, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Group of Microbial Motility, Department of Biological Science, Division of Natural Science, Graduate school of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Joo Hyun Park
- Group of Nutritional Neuroscience, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yana Al-Hebri
- Group of Nutritional Neuroscience, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masaru Tanaka
- Milk Science Research Institute, Megmilk Snow Brand Co. Ltd., Saitama, Japan
- Group of Nutritional Neuroscience, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shunji Nakano
- Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ikue Mori
- Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kentaro Noma
- Group of Nutritional Neuroscience, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
- Group of Microbial Motility, Department of Biological Science, Division of Natural Science, Graduate school of Science, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
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Ticinesi A, Parise A, Nouvenne A, Cerundolo N, Prati B, Meschi T. The possible role of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the pathophysiology of delirium in older persons. MICROBIOME RESEARCH REPORTS 2023; 2:19. [PMID: 38046817 PMCID: PMC10688815 DOI: 10.20517/mrr.2023.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Delirium is a clinical syndrome characterized by an acute change in attention, awareness and cognition with fluctuating course, frequently observed in older patients during hospitalization for acute medical illness or after surgery. Its pathogenesis is multifactorial and still not completely understood, but there is general consensus on the fact that it results from the interaction between an underlying predisposition, such as neurodegenerative diseases, and an acute stressor acting as a trigger, such as infection or anesthesia. Alterations in brain insulin sensitivity and metabolic function, increased blood-brain barrier permeability, neurotransmitter imbalances, abnormal microglial activation and neuroinflammation have all been involved in the pathophysiology of delirium. Interestingly, all these mechanisms can be regulated by the gut microbiota, as demonstrated in experimental studies investigating the microbiota-gut-brain axis in dementia. Aging is also associated with profound changes in gut microbiota composition and functions, which can influence several aspects of disease pathophysiology in the host. This review provides an overview of the emerging evidence linking age-related gut microbiota dysbiosis with delirium, opening new perspectives for the microbiota as a possible target of interventions aimed at delirium prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ticinesi
- Microbiome Research Hub, University of Parma, Parma 43124, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
- Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - Alberto Parise
- Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - Antonio Nouvenne
- Microbiome Research Hub, University of Parma, Parma 43124, Italy
- Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Cerundolo
- Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - Beatrice Prati
- Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
| | - Tiziana Meschi
- Microbiome Research Hub, University of Parma, Parma 43124, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
- Geriatric-Rehabilitation Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma 43126, Italy
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5
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Loose JA, Amrit FRG, Patil T, Yanowitz JL, Ghazi A. Meiotic dysfunction accelerates somatic aging in Caenorhabditis elegans. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13716. [PMID: 36176234 PMCID: PMC9649607 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
An expanding body of evidence, from studies in model organisms to human clinical data, reveals that reproductive health influences organismal aging. However, the impact of germline integrity on somatic aging is poorly understood. Moreover, assessing the causal relationship of such an impact is challenging to address in human and vertebrate models. Here, we demonstrate that disruption of meiosis, a germline restricted process, shortened lifespan, impaired individual aspects of healthspan, and accelerated somatic aging in Caenorhabditis elegans. Young meiotic mutants exhibited transcriptional profiles that showed remarkable overlap with the transcriptomes of old worms and shared similarities with transcriptomes of aging human tissues as well. We found that meiosis dysfunction caused increased expression of functionally relevant longevity determinants whose inactivation enhanced the lifespan of normal animals. Further, meiotic mutants manifested destabilized protein homeostasis and enhanced proteasomal activity partially rescued the associated lifespan defects. Our study demonstrates a role for meiotic integrity in controlling somatic aging and reveals proteostasis control as a potential mechanism through which germline status impacts overall organismal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A. Loose
- Department of Pediatrics, John G. Rangos Sr. Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Francis R. G. Amrit
- Department of Pediatrics, John G. Rangos Sr. Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Thayjas Patil
- Department of Pediatrics, John G. Rangos Sr. Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Judith L. Yanowitz
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee‐Womens Research InstituteUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPAUSA
| | - Arjumand Ghazi
- Department of Pediatrics, John G. Rangos Sr. Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA,Department of Developmental Biology, John G. Rangos Sr. Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA,Department of Cell Biology & PhysiologyUniversity of Pittsburgh School of MedicinePittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
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6
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Marszalek-Grabska M, Zakrocka I, Budzynska B, Marciniak S, Kaszubska K, Lemieszek MK, Winiarczyk S, Kotlinska JH, Rzeski W, Turski WA. Binge-like mephedrone treatment induces memory impairment concomitant with brain kynurenic acid reduction in mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 454:116216. [PMID: 36057403 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
While mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone), a synthetic cathinone derivative, is widely abused by adolescents and young adults, the knowledge about its long-term effects on memory processes is limited. Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a neuroactive metabolite of the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan degradation. KYNA is considered an important endogenous modulator influencing physiological and pathological processes, including learning and memory processes. The aim of this study was to determine whether (A) binge-like mephedrone administration (10.0 and 30.0 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, in 4 doses separated by 2 h) induces memory impairments, assessed 2, 8 and 15 days after mephedrone cessation in the passive avoidance test in mice, and whether (B) KYNA is involved in these memory processes. To clarify the role of KYNA in the mephedrone effects, its level in the murine brain in vivo, and in cortical slices in vitro, as well as the activities of kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs) I and II were assessed. Furthermore, cell line experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of mephedrone on normal human brain cells. Our results showed memory impairments 8 and 15 days after binge-like mephedrone administration. At the same time, reduction in the KYNA level in the murine brain was noted. In vitro studies showed no effect of mephedrone on the production of KYNA in cortical slices or on the activity of the KAT I and II enzymes. Finally, exposure of normal cells to mephedrone in vitro resulted in a modest reduction of cell viability and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Marszalek-Grabska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Izabela Zakrocka
- Department of Nephrology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Barbara Budzynska
- Independent Laboratory of Behavioral Studies, Medical University, Chodzki 4a, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Sebastian Marciniak
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kaszubska
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University, Chodzki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Kinga Lemieszek
- Department of Medical Biology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Sylwia Winiarczyk
- Department of Medical Biology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jolanta H Kotlinska
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, Medical University, Chodzki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Wojciech Rzeski
- Department of Medical Biology, Institute of Rural Health, Jaczewskiego 2, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Waldemar A Turski
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
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Invited review: Unearthing the mechanisms of age-related neurodegenerative disease using Caenorhabditis elegans. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2022; 267:111166. [PMID: 35176489 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.111166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
As human life expectancy increases, neurodegenerative diseases present a growing public health threat, for which there are currently few effective treatments. There is an urgent need to understand the molecular and genetic underpinnings of these disorders so new therapeutic targets can be identified. Here we present the argument that the simple nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans is a powerful tool to rapidly study neurodegenerative disorders due to their short lifespan and vast array of genetic tools, which can be combined with characterization of conserved neuronal processes and behavior orthologous to those disrupted in human disease. We review how pre-existing C. elegans models provide insight into human neurological disease as well as an overview of current tools available to study neurodegenerative diseases in the worm, with an emphasis on genetics and behavior. We also discuss open questions that C. elegans may be particularly well suited for in future studies and how worms will be a valuable preclinical model to better understand these devastating neurological disorders.
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Janssens GE, Grevendonk L, Perez RZ, Schomakers BV, de Vogel-van den Bosch J, Geurts JMW, van Weeghel M, Schrauwen P, Houtkooper RH, Hoeks J. Healthy aging and muscle function are positively associated with NAD + abundance in humans. NATURE AGING 2022; 2:254-263. [PMID: 37118369 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-022-00174-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is greatly affected by aging, resulting in a loss of metabolic and physical function. However, the underlying molecular processes and how (lack of) physical activity is involved in age-related metabolic decline in muscle function in humans is largely unknown. Here, we compared, in a cross-sectional study, the muscle metabolome from young to older adults, whereby the older adults were exercise trained, had normal physical activity levels or were physically impaired. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) was one of the most prominent metabolites that was lower in older adults, in line with preclinical models. This lower level was even more pronounced in impaired older individuals, and conversely, exercise-trained older individuals had NAD+ levels that were more similar to those found in younger individuals. NAD+ abundance positively correlated with average number of steps per day and mitochondrial and muscle functioning. Our work suggests that a clear association exists between NAD+ and health status in human aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges E Janssens
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lotte Grevendonk
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- TI Food and Nutrition, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ruben Zapata Perez
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bauke V Schomakers
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Core Facility Metabolomics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Michel van Weeghel
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Core Facility Metabolomics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Patrick Schrauwen
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- TI Food and Nutrition, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Riekelt H Houtkooper
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Joris Hoeks
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
- TI Food and Nutrition, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
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Wang Y, Liu Z, Shen P, Zhao C, Liu B, Shu C, Hu X, Fu Y. Kynurenic acid ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced endometritis by regulating the GRP35/NF-κB signaling pathway. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 438:115907. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.115907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Modafferi S, Zhong X, Kleensang A, Murata Y, Fagiani F, Pamies D, Hogberg HT, Calabrese V, Lachman H, Hartung T, Smirnova L. Gene-Environment Interactions in Developmental Neurotoxicity: a Case Study of Synergy between Chlorpyrifos and CHD8 Knockout in Human BrainSpheres. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2021; 129:77001. [PMID: 34259569 PMCID: PMC8278985 DOI: 10.1289/ehp8580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a major public health concern caused by complex genetic and environmental components. Mechanisms of gene-environment (G × E ) interactions and reliable biomarkers associated with ASD are mostly unknown or controversial. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from patients or with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9)-introduced mutations in candidate ASD genes provide an opportunity to study (G × E ) interactions. OBJECTIVES In this study, we aimed to identify a potential synergy between mutation in the high-risk autism gene encoding chromodomain helicase DNA binding protein 8 (CHD8) and environmental exposure to an organophosphate pesticide (chlorpyrifos; CPF) in an iPSC-derived human three-dimensional (3D) brain model. METHODS This study employed human iPSC-derived 3D brain organoids (BrainSpheres) carrying a heterozygote CRISPR/Cas9-introduced inactivating mutation in CHD8 and exposed to CPF or its oxon-metabolite (CPO). Neural differentiation, viability, oxidative stress, and neurite outgrowth were assessed, and levels of main neurotransmitters and selected metabolites were validated against human data on ASD metabolic derangements. RESULTS Expression of CHD8 protein was significantly lower in CHD8 heterozygous knockout (C H D 8 + / - ) BrainSpheres compared with C H D 8 + / + ones. Exposure to CPF/CPO treatment further reduced CHD8 protein levels, showing the potential (G × E ) interaction synergy. A novel approach for validation of the model was chosen: from the literature, we identified a panel of metabolic biomarkers in patients and assessed them by targeted metabolomics in vitro. A synergistic effect was observed on the cholinergic system, S-adenosylmethionine, S-adenosylhomocysteine, lactic acid, tryptophan, kynurenic acid, and α -hydroxyglutaric acid levels. Neurite outgrowth was perturbed by CPF/CPO exposure. Heterozygous knockout of CHD8 in BrainSpheres led to an imbalance of excitatory/inhibitory neurotransmitters and lower levels of dopamine. DISCUSSION This study pioneered (G × E ) interaction in iPSC-derived organoids. The experimental strategy enables biomonitoring and environmental risk assessment for ASD. Our findings reflected some metabolic perturbations and disruption of neurotransmitter systems involved in ASD. The increased susceptibility of CHD 8 + / - BrainSpheres to chemical insult establishes a possibly broader role of (G × E ) interaction in ASD. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP8580.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Modafferi
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Xiali Zhong
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Andre Kleensang
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yohei Murata
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Research Center, Nihon Nohyaku Co. Ltd., Osaka, Japan
| | - Francesca Fagiani
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Istituto Universitario di Studi Superiori (Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS) Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - David Pamies
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Helena T. Hogberg
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Vittorio Calabrese
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Herbert Lachman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Thomas Hartung
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Lena Smirnova
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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11
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Mithaiwala MN, Santana-Coelho D, Porter GA, O’Connor JC. Neuroinflammation and the Kynurenine Pathway in CNS Disease: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications. Cells 2021; 10:1548. [PMID: 34205235 PMCID: PMC8235708 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) remain a significant health, social and economic problem around the globe. The development of therapeutic strategies for CNS conditions has suffered due to a poor understanding of the underlying pathologies that manifest them. Understanding common etiological origins at the cellular and molecular level is essential to enhance the development of efficacious and targeted treatment options. Over the years, neuroinflammation has been posited as a common link between multiple neurological, neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Processes that precipitate neuroinflammatory conditions including genetics, infections, physical injury and psychosocial factors, like stress and trauma, closely link dysregulation in kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan metabolism as a possible pathophysiological factor that 'fuel the fire' in CNS diseases. In this study, we aim to review emerging evidence that provide mechanistic insights between different CNS disorders, neuroinflammation and the KP. We provide a thorough overview of the different branches of the KP pertinent to CNS disease pathology that have therapeutic implications for the development of selected and efficacious treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa N. Mithaiwala
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (M.N.M.); (D.S.-C.); (G.A.P.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, Mail Code 8864, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Danielle Santana-Coelho
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (M.N.M.); (D.S.-C.); (G.A.P.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, Mail Code 8864, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Grace A. Porter
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (M.N.M.); (D.S.-C.); (G.A.P.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, Mail Code 8864, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jason C. O’Connor
- Integrated Biomedical Sciences Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA; (M.N.M.); (D.S.-C.); (G.A.P.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, Mail Code 8864, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
- Department of Research, Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital, South Texas Veterans Heath System, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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12
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Gong SQ, Ye TT, Wang MX, Hong ZP, Liu L, Chen H, Qian J. Profiling the mid-adult cecal microbiota associated with host healthy by using herbal formula Kang ShuaiLao Pian treated mid-adult mice. Chin J Nat Med 2020; 18:90-102. [PMID: 32172952 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(20)30010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
With the occurrence of aging process, decreased neuron dopamine, disrupted brown adipose tissue (BAT) remodeling and decreased butyrate level all reflect a weak host healthy in certain degree. Nevertheless, the signs of mid-adult gut microbiota, and its association with host healthy are not well understood. In current study, we deemed to illustrate the associations of age, neuron dopamine, BAT remodeling, butyrate and gut microbiota with the aid of traditional herbal formula Kang Shuai Lao Pian (KSLP), which is known for its anti-aging effect. Here, ELISA was performed to detect the production of brain dopamine, the mass of inguinal white adipose tissue versus interscapular brown adipose tissue (iWAT/iBAT) was calculated and considered as a sign of BAT remodeling, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to the detection of gut microbiota profiling and gas chromatography was used to measure the butyrate level in mice feces. Our results indicated mid-adult mice already present distinctive gut microbiota profiling compared with young mice, concomitant with which are the lower brain dopamine level and disrupted brown adipose remodeling. KSLP treatment improved the host healthy and regulated gut microbiota with enriched Firmicutes at the expense of Bacteroidetes, particularly increased the relative abundance of bacteria functionally related to dopamine and butyrate productions, which suggest KSLP treatment constructs a healthier gut environment. In conclusion, modulation of gut microbiota and butyrate may connectively regulate dopamine production and BAT remodeling through gut-brain axis and gut-metabolism axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Qing Gong
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ting-Ting Ye
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mei-Xia Wang
- Key laboratory of Microbial Technology and Bioinformatics of Zhejiang Province, NMPA Key laboratory for Testing and Risk Warning of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Zhejiang Institute of Microbiology, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Zhu-Ping Hong
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Li Liu
- Technical Center, Chiatai Qingchunbao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310023, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Key laboratory of Microbial Technology and Bioinformatics of Zhejiang Province, NMPA Key laboratory for Testing and Risk Warning of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Zhejiang Institute of Microbiology, Hangzhou 310012, China.
| | - Jing Qian
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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13
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Dabrowski W, Siwicka-Gieroba D, Gasinska-Blotniak M, Zaid S, Jezierska M, Pakulski C, Williams Roberson S, Wesley Ely E, Kotfis K. Pathomechanisms of Non-Traumatic Acute Brain Injury in Critically Ill Patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56090469. [PMID: 32933176 PMCID: PMC7560040 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56090469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Delirium, an acute alteration in mental status characterized by confusion, inattention and a fluctuating level of arousal, is a common problem in critically ill patients. Delirium prolongs hospital stay and is associated with higher mortality. The pathophysiology of delirium has not been fully elucidated. Neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter imbalance seem to be the most important factors for delirium development. In this review, we present the most important pathomechanisms of delirium in critically ill patients, such as neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter imbalance, hypoxia and hyperoxia, tryptophan pathway disorders, and gut microbiota imbalance. A thorough understanding of delirium pathomechanisms is essential for effective prevention and treatment of this underestimated pathology in critically ill patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Dabrowski
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (D.S.-G.); (M.G.-B.); (M.J.)
- Correspondence: or (W.D.); (K.K.)
| | - Dorota Siwicka-Gieroba
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (D.S.-G.); (M.G.-B.); (M.J.)
| | - Malgorzata Gasinska-Blotniak
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (D.S.-G.); (M.G.-B.); (M.J.)
| | - Sami Zaid
- Department of Anaesthesia, Al-Emadi-Hospital Doha, P.O. Box 5804 Doha, Qatar;
| | - Maja Jezierska
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Medical University of Lublin, 20-954 Lublin, Poland; (D.S.-G.); (M.G.-B.); (M.J.)
| | - Cezary Pakulski
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Therapy and Emergency Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Shawniqua Williams Roberson
- Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction, and Survivorship (CIBS) Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (S.W.R.); (E.W.E.)
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, 1211, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Eugene Wesley Ely
- Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction, and Survivorship (CIBS) Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (S.W.R.); (E.W.E.)
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Tennessee Valley Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, 1310, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary, and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Katarzyna Kotfis
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Therapy and Acute Intoxications, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
- Correspondence: or (W.D.); (K.K.)
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14
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Carrillo-Mora P, Pérez-De la Cruz V, Estrada-Cortés B, Toussaint-González P, Martínez-Cortéz JA, Rodríguez-Barragán M, Quinzaños-Fresnedo J, Rangel-Caballero F, Gamboa-Coria G, Sánchez-Vázquez I, Barajas-Martínez K, Franyutti-Prado K, Sánchez-Chapul L, Ramírez-Ortega D, Ramos-Chávez LA. Serum Kynurenines Correlate With Depressive Symptoms and Disability in Poststroke Patients: A Cross-sectional Study. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2020; 34:936-944. [DOI: 10.1177/1545968320953671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Poststroke depression (PSD) is related to adverse functional and cognitive prognosis in stroke patients. The participation of kynurenine pathway metabolites in depression has been previously proposed; however, there are few studies on its role in PSD and disability in stroke. Objective To investigate if there is a correlation between serum kynurenines levels with poststroke anxiety and depression symptoms and disability scales. Methods A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted in patients with first stroke, of >1 month and <1 year of evolution, with no history of previous psychiatric or neurological disorders; the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), functional evaluations (Barthel index, Functional Independence Measure [FIM]) were applied and serum kynurenines (Kyns) were determined. Results Sixty patients were included; significant depressive symptoms were found in 63% of the cases; a significant and positive correlation was obtained between levels of 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) with HADS-T ( r = 0.30, P = .025) and HADS-D ( r = 0.28, P = .039). Depressed patients showed significantly higher levels of 3HK ( P = .048) and KYNA ( P = .0271) than nondepressed patients; the 3HK levels were inversely correlated with functional scales: Barthel index ( r = −0.31, P = .02), FIM ( r = −0.40, P = .01); in addition, serum 3HK levels were significantly higher in patients with poor sleep quality ( P = .0190). Conclusions Serum Kyns show correlation with the presence and severity of depressive symptoms and with the disability and sleep quality. Kyns may be a potential marker of depression risk and disability in stroke in future.
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15
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Lin L, Lemieux GA, Enogieru OJ, Giacomini KM, Ashrafi K. Neural production of kynurenic acid in Caenorhabditis elegans requires the AAT-1 transporter. Genes Dev 2020; 34:1033-1038. [PMID: 32675325 PMCID: PMC7397858 DOI: 10.1101/gad.339119.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In this study, Lin et al. investigated the mechanisms that import kyneurine (Kyn), a prescursor to kynurenic acid (KynA), which links peripheral metabolic status to neural functions including learning and memory, into the nervous system. They provide genetic, anatomical, biochemical, and behavioral evidence showing that in C. elegans an ortholog of the human LAT1 transporter, AAT-1, imports Kyn into sites of KynA production. Kynurenic acid (KynA) levels link peripheral metabolic status to neural functions including learning and memory. Since neural KynA levels dampen learning capacity, KynA reduction has been proposed as a therapeutic strategy for conditions of cognitive deficit such as neurodegeneration. While KynA is generated locally within the nervous system, its precursor, kynurenine (Kyn), is largely derived from peripheral resources. The mechanisms that import Kyn into the nervous system are poorly understood. Here, we provide genetic, anatomical, biochemical, and behavioral evidence showing that in C. elegans an ortholog of the human LAT1 transporter, AAT-1, imports Kyn into sites of KynA production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- Department of Physiology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - George A Lemieux
- Department of Physiology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - Osatohanmwen Jessica Enogieru
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - Kathleen M Giacomini
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
| | - Kaveh Ashrafi
- Department of Physiology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
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16
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Walczak K, Wnorowski A, Turski WA, Plech T. Kynurenic acid and cancer: facts and controversies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:1531-1550. [PMID: 31659416 PMCID: PMC7162828 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03332-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is an endogenous tryptophan metabolite exerting neuroprotective and anticonvulsant properties in the brain. However, its importance on the periphery is still not fully elucidated. KYNA is produced endogenously in various types of peripheral cells, tissues and by gastrointestinal microbiota. Furthermore, it was found in several products of daily human diet and its absorption in the digestive tract was evidenced. More recent studies were focused on the potential role of KYNA in carcinogenesis and cancer therapy; however, the results were ambiguous and the biological activity of KYNA in these processes has not been unequivocally established. This review aims to summarize the current views on the relationship between KYNA and cancer. The differences in KYNA concentration between physiological conditions and cancer, as well as KYNA production by both normal and cancer cells, will be discussed. The review also describes the effect of KYNA on cancer cell proliferation and the known potential molecular mechanisms of this activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walczak
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Artur Wnorowski
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Waldemar A Turski
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Plech
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
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17
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Kynurenic Acid and Its Analogs Are Beneficial Physiologic Attenuators in Bdelloid Rotifers. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24112171. [PMID: 31185582 PMCID: PMC6600480 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24112171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The in vivo investigation of kynurenic acid (KYNA) and its analogs is one of the recent exciting topics in pharmacology. In the current study we assessed the biological effects of these molecules on bdelloid rotifers (Philodina acuticornis and Adineta vaga) by monitoring changes in their survival and phenotypical characteristics. In addition to longitudinal (slowly changing) markers (survival, number of rotifers alive and body size index), some dynamic (quickly responding) ones (cellular reduction capacity and mastax contraction frequency) were measured as well. KYNA and its analogs increased longevity, reproduction and growth, whereas reduction capacity and energy-dependent muscular activity decreased conversely. We found that spermidine, a calorie restriction mimetic, exerted similar changes in the applied micro-invertebrates. This characterized systemic profile evoked by the above-mentioned compounds was named beneficial physiologic attenuation. In reference experiments, using a stimulator (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) and a toxin (sodium azide), all parameters changed in the same direction (positively or negatively, respectively), as expected. The currently described adaptive phenomenon in bdelloid rotifers may provide holistic perspectives in translational research.
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