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Meqbil YJ, Aguilar J, Blaine AT, Chen L, Cassell RJ, Pradhan AA, van Rijn RM. Identification of 1,3,8-Triazaspiro[4.5]Decane-2,4-Dione Derivatives as a Novel δ Opioid Receptor-Selective Agonist Chemotype. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 389:301-309. [PMID: 38621994 PMCID: PMC11125782 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.001735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
δ opioid receptors (DORs) hold potential as a target for neurologic and psychiatric disorders, yet no DOR agonist has proven efficacious in critical phase II clinical trials. The exact reasons for the failure to produce quality drug candidates for the DOR are unclear. However, it is known that certain DOR agonists can induce seizures and exhibit tachyphylaxis. Several studies have suggested that those adverse effects are more prevalent in delta agonists that share the (+)-4-[(αR)-α-((2S,5R)-4-allyl-2,5-dimethyl-1-piperazinyl)-3-methoxybenzyl]-N,N-diethylbenzamide (SNC80)/4-[(αR*)-α-((2S*,5R*)-4-allyl-2,5-dimethyl-1-piperazinyl)-3-hydroxybenzyl]-N,N-diethylbenzamide chemotype. There is a need to find novel lead candidates for drug development that have improved pharmacological properties to differentiate them from the current failed delta agonists. Our objective in this study was to identify novel DOR agonists. We used a β-arrestin assay to screen a small G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR)-focused chemical library. We identified a novel chemotype of DOR agonists that appears to bind to the orthosteric site based of docking and molecular dynamic simulation. The most potent agonist hit compound is selective for the DOR over a panel of 167 other GPCRs, is slightly biased toward G-protein signaling and has anti-allodynic efficacy in a complete Freund's adjuvant model of inflammatory pain in C57BL/6 male and female mice. The newly discovered chemotype contrasts with molecules like SNC80 that are highly efficacious β-arrestin recruiters and may suggest this novel class of DOR agonists could be expanded on to develop a clinical candidate drug. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: δ opioid receptors are a clinical target for various neurological disorders, including migraine and chronic pain. Many of the clinically tested delta opioid agonists share a single chemotype, which carries risks during drug development. Through a small-scale high-throughput screening assay, this study identified a novel δ opioid receptor agonist chemotype, which may serve as alternative for the current analgesic clinical candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazan J Meqbil
- Borch Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (Y.J.M., A.T.B., R.J.C., R.M.v.R.), Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs, Computational Life Sciences (Y.J.M.), and Interdisciplinary Life Science-PULSe (A.T.B.), Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, Indiana (R.M.v.R.); Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, Indiana (L.C., R.M.v.R.); Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, California (R.M.v.R.); and Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.A., A.A.P.)
| | - Jhoan Aguilar
- Borch Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (Y.J.M., A.T.B., R.J.C., R.M.v.R.), Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs, Computational Life Sciences (Y.J.M.), and Interdisciplinary Life Science-PULSe (A.T.B.), Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, Indiana (R.M.v.R.); Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, Indiana (L.C., R.M.v.R.); Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, California (R.M.v.R.); and Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.A., A.A.P.)
| | - Arryn T Blaine
- Borch Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (Y.J.M., A.T.B., R.J.C., R.M.v.R.), Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs, Computational Life Sciences (Y.J.M.), and Interdisciplinary Life Science-PULSe (A.T.B.), Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, Indiana (R.M.v.R.); Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, Indiana (L.C., R.M.v.R.); Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, California (R.M.v.R.); and Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.A., A.A.P.)
| | - Lan Chen
- Borch Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (Y.J.M., A.T.B., R.J.C., R.M.v.R.), Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs, Computational Life Sciences (Y.J.M.), and Interdisciplinary Life Science-PULSe (A.T.B.), Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, Indiana (R.M.v.R.); Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, Indiana (L.C., R.M.v.R.); Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, California (R.M.v.R.); and Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.A., A.A.P.)
| | - Robert J Cassell
- Borch Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (Y.J.M., A.T.B., R.J.C., R.M.v.R.), Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs, Computational Life Sciences (Y.J.M.), and Interdisciplinary Life Science-PULSe (A.T.B.), Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, Indiana (R.M.v.R.); Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, Indiana (L.C., R.M.v.R.); Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, California (R.M.v.R.); and Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.A., A.A.P.)
| | - Amynah A Pradhan
- Borch Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (Y.J.M., A.T.B., R.J.C., R.M.v.R.), Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs, Computational Life Sciences (Y.J.M.), and Interdisciplinary Life Science-PULSe (A.T.B.), Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, Indiana (R.M.v.R.); Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, Indiana (L.C., R.M.v.R.); Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, California (R.M.v.R.); and Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.A., A.A.P.)
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Borch Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (Y.J.M., A.T.B., R.J.C., R.M.v.R.), Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs, Computational Life Sciences (Y.J.M.), and Interdisciplinary Life Science-PULSe (A.T.B.), Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, Indiana (R.M.v.R.); Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, Indiana (L.C., R.M.v.R.); Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, California (R.M.v.R.); and Center for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.A., A.A.P.)
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Kajino K, Tokuda A, Saitoh T. Morphinan Evolution: The Impact of Advances in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. J Biochem 2024; 175:337-355. [PMID: 38382631 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvae021] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Morphinan-based opioids, derived from natural alkaloids like morphine, codeine and thebaine, have long been pivotal in managing severe pain. However, their clinical utility is marred by significant side effects and high addiction potential. This review traces the evolution of the morphinan scaffold in light of advancements in biochemistry and molecular biology, which have expanded our understanding of opioid receptor pharmacology. We explore the development of semi-synthetic and synthetic morphinans, their receptor selectivity and the emergence of biased agonism as a strategy to dissociate analgesic properties from undesirable effects. By examining the molecular intricacies of opioid receptors and their signaling pathways, we highlight how receptor-type selectivity and signaling bias have informed the design of novel analgesics. This synthesis of historical and contemporary perspectives provides an overview of the morphinan landscape, underscoring the ongoing efforts to mitigate the problems facing opioids through smarter drug design. We also highlight that most morphinan derivatives show a preference for the G protein pathway, although detailed experimental comparisons are still necessary. This fact underscores the utility of the morphinan skeleton in future opioid drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Kajino
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (IIIS), University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Degree Programs in Pure and Applied Sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8571, Japan
| | - Akihisa Tokuda
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (IIIS), University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Saitoh
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (IIIS), University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
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French AR, Meqbil YJ, van Rijn RM. ClickArr: a novel, high-throughput assay for evaluating β-arrestin isoform recruitment. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1295518. [PMID: 38027002 PMCID: PMC10662323 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1295518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Modern methods for quantifying signaling bias at G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) rely on using a single β-arrestin isoform. However, it is increasingly appreciated that the two β-arrestin isoforms have unique roles, requiring the ability to assess β-arrestin isoform preference. Thus, methods are needed to efficiently screen the recruitment of both β-arrestin isoforms as they compete for a target GPCR in cells. Methods: We used molecular cloning to develop fusion proteins of the δ-opioid receptor (δOR), β-arrestin 1, and β-arrestin 2 to fragments of click beetle green and click beetle red luciferases. In this assay architecture, recruitment of either β-arrestin 1 or 2 to the δOR generates a spectrally distinct bioluminescent signal, allowing us to co-transfect all three constructs into cells prior to agonist challenge. Results: We demonstrate that our new assay, named "ClickArr," is a live-cell assay that simultaneously reports the recruitment of both β-arrestin isoforms as they compete for interaction with the δOR. We further find that the partial δOR agonist TAN67 has a significant efficacy bias for β-arrestin 2 over β-arrestin 1 when recruitment is normalized to the reference agonist leu-enkephalin. We confirm that ClickArr reports this bias when run either as a high-throughput endpoint or high-throughput kinetic assay, and cross-validate this result using the PathHunter assay, an orthogonal commercial assay for reporting β-arrestin recruitment to the δOR. Conclusion: Our results suggest that agonist:GPCR complexes can have relative β-arrestin isoform bias, a novel signaling bias that may potentially open up a new dimension for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R. French
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Yazan J. Meqbil
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Richard M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Wess J, Oteng AB, Rivera-Gonzalez O, Gurevich EV, Gurevich VV. β-Arrestins: Structure, Function, Physiology, and Pharmacological Perspectives. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:854-884. [PMID: 37028945 PMCID: PMC10441628 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.121.000302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The two β-arrestins, β-arrestin-1 and -2 (systematic names: arrestin-2 and -3, respectively), are multifunctional intracellular proteins that regulate the activity of a very large number of cellular signaling pathways and physiologic functions. The two proteins were discovered for their ability to disrupt signaling via G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) via binding to the activated receptors. However, it is now well recognized that both β-arrestins can also act as direct modulators of numerous cellular processes via either GPCR-dependent or -independent mechanisms. Recent structural, biophysical, and biochemical studies have provided novel insights into how β-arrestins bind to activated GPCRs and downstream effector proteins. Studies with β-arrestin mutant mice have identified numerous physiologic and pathophysiological processes regulated by β-arrestin-1 and/or -2. Following a short summary of recent structural studies, this review primarily focuses on β-arrestin-regulated physiologic functions, with particular focus on the central nervous system and the roles of β-arrestins in carcinogenesis and key metabolic processes including the maintenance of glucose and energy homeostasis. This review also highlights potential therapeutic implications of these studies and discusses strategies that could prove useful for targeting specific β-arrestin-regulated signaling pathways for therapeutic purposes. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The two β-arrestins, structurally closely related intracellular proteins that are evolutionarily highly conserved, have emerged as multifunctional proteins able to regulate a vast array of cellular and physiological functions. The outcome of studies with β-arrestin mutant mice and cultured cells, complemented by novel insights into β-arrestin structure and function, should pave the way for the development of novel classes of therapeutically useful drugs capable of regulating specific β-arrestin functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland (J.W., A.-B.O., O.R.-G.); and Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (E.V.G., V.V.G.)
| | - Antwi-Boasiako Oteng
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland (J.W., A.-B.O., O.R.-G.); and Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (E.V.G., V.V.G.)
| | - Osvaldo Rivera-Gonzalez
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland (J.W., A.-B.O., O.R.-G.); and Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (E.V.G., V.V.G.)
| | - Eugenia V Gurevich
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland (J.W., A.-B.O., O.R.-G.); and Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (E.V.G., V.V.G.)
| | - Vsevolod V Gurevich
- Molecular Signaling Section, Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland (J.W., A.-B.O., O.R.-G.); and Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (E.V.G., V.V.G.)
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5
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Blaine AT, van Rijn RM. Receptor expression and signaling properties in the brain, and structural ligand motifs that contribute to delta opioid receptor agonist-induced seizures. Neuropharmacology 2023; 232:109526. [PMID: 37004753 PMCID: PMC11078570 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109526] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The δ opioid receptor (δOR) is a therapeutic target for the treatment of various neurological disorders, such as migraines, chronic pain, alcohol use, and mood disorders. Relative to μ opioid receptor agonists, δOR agonists show lower abuse liability and may be potentially safer analgesic alternatives. However, currently no δOR agonists are approved for clinical use. A small number of δOR agonists reached Phase II trials, but ultimately failed to progress due to lack of efficacy. One side effect of δOR agonism that remains poorly understood is the ability of δOR agonists to produce seizures. The lack of a clear mechanism of action is partly driven by the fact that δOR agonists range in their propensity to induce seizure behavior, with multiple δOR agonists reportedly not causing seizures. There is a significant gap in our current understanding of why certain δOR agonists are more likely to induce seizures, and what signal-transduction pathway and/or brain area is engaged to produce these seizures. In this review we provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge of δOR agonist-mediated seizures. The review was structured to highlight which agonists produce seizures, which brain regions have been implicated and which signaling mediators have been examined in this behavior. Our hope is that this review will spur future studies that are carefully designed and aimed to solve the question why certain δOR agonists are seizurogenic. Obtaining such insight may expedite the development of novel δOR clinical candidates without the risk of inducing seizures. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Opioid-induced changes in addiction and pain circuits".
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Affiliation(s)
- Arryn T Blaine
- Purdue University, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA; Purdue University Interdisciplinary Life Science graduate program, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Purdue University, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA; Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA.
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6
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Karasawa Y, Miyano K, Yamaguchi M, Nonaka M, Yamaguchi K, Iseki M, Kawagoe I, Uezono Y. Therapeutic Potential of Orally Administered Rubiscolin-6. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9959. [PMID: 37373107 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Rubiscolins are naturally occurring opioid peptides derived from the enzymatic digestion of the ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase protein in spinach leaves. They are classified into two subtypes based on amino acid sequence, namely rubiscolin-5 and rubiscolin-6. In vitro studies have determined rubiscolins as G protein-biased delta-opioid receptor agonists, and in vivo studies have demonstrated that they exert several beneficial effects via the central nervous system. The most unique and attractive advantage of rubiscolin-6 over other oligopeptides is its oral availability. Therefore, it can be considered a promising candidate for the development of a novel and safe drug. In this review, we show the therapeutic potential of rubiscolin-6, mainly focusing on its effects when orally administered based on available evidence. Additionally, we present a hypothesis for the pharmacokinetics of rubiscolin-6, focusing on its absorption in the intestinal tract and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Karasawa
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
- Medical Affairs, Viatris Pharmaceuticals Japan Inc., Tokyo 105-0001, Japan
| | - Kanako Miyano
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
- Division of Cancer Pathophysiology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
| | - Masahiro Yamaguchi
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
- Medical Affairs, Pfizer Japan Inc., Tokyo 151-8589, Japan
| | - Miki Nonaka
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
| | - Keisuke Yamaguchi
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Masako Iseki
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Izumi Kawagoe
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Uezono
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Supportive and Palliative Care Research Support Office, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Chiba 277-8577, Japan
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Hennessy MR, Gutridge AM, French AR, Rhoda ES, Meqbil YJ, Gill M, Kashyap Y, Appourchaux K, Paul B, Wang ZJ, van Rijn RM, Riley AP. Modified Akuamma Alkaloids with Increased Potency at the Mu-opioid Receptor. J Med Chem 2023; 66:3312-3326. [PMID: 36827198 PMCID: PMC10037270 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01707] [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] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Akuammine (1) and pseudoakuammigine (2) are indole alkaloids found in the seeds of the akuamma tree (Picralima nitida). Both alkaloids are weak agonists of the mu opioid receptor (μOR); however, they produce minimal effects in animal models of antinociception. To probe the interactions of 1 and 2 at the opioid receptors, we have prepared a collection of 22 semisynthetic derivatives. Evaluation of this collection at the μOR and kappa opioid receptor (κOR) revealed structural-activity relationship trends and derivatives with improved potency at the μOR. Most notably, the introduction of a phenethyl moiety to the N1 of 2 produces a 70-fold increase in potency and a 7-fold increase in selectivity for the μOR. The in vitro potency of this compound resulted in increased efficacy in the tail-flick and hot-plate assays of antinociception. The improved potency of these derivatives highlights the promise of exploring natural product scaffolds to probe the opioid receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline R Hennessy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Anna M Gutridge
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
| | - Alexander R French
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
- Departments of Neurology and Bioengineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Elizabeth S Rhoda
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
| | - Yazan J. Meqbil
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
| | - Meghna Gill
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Yavnika Kashyap
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Kevin Appourchaux
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Barnali Paul
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Zaijie Jim Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
- Departments of Neurology and Bioengineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Richard M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
- Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
- Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA
| | - Andrew P. Riley
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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Blaine AT, Miao Y, Yuan J, Palant S, Liu RJ, Zhang ZY, van Rijn RM. Exploration of beta-arrestin isoform signaling pathways in delta opioid receptor agonist-induced convulsions. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:914651. [PMID: 36059958 PMCID: PMC9428791 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.914651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The δ-opioid receptor (δOR) has been considered as a therapeutic target in multiple neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders particularly as δOR agonists are deemed safer alternatives relative to the more abuse-liable µ-opioid receptor drugs. Clinical development of δOR agonists, however, has been challenging in part due to the seizure-inducing effects of certain δOR agonists. Especially agonists that resemble the δOR-selective agonist SNC80 have well-established convulsive activity. Close inspection suggests that many of those seizurogenic δOR agonists efficaciously recruit β-arrestin, yet surprisingly, SNC80 displays enhanced seizure activity in β-arrestin 1 knockout mice. This finding led us to hypothesize that perhaps β-arrestin 1 is protective against, whereas β-arrestin 2 is detrimental for δOR-agonist-induced seizures. To investigate our hypothesis, we characterized three different δOR agonists (SNC80, ADL5859, ARM390) in cellular assays and in vivo in wild-type and β-arrestin 1 and β-arrestin 2 knockout mice for seizure activity. We also investigated downstream kinases associated with β-arrestin-dependent signal transduction. We discovered that δOR agonist-induced seizure activity strongly and positively correlates with β-arrestin 2 efficacy for the agonist, but that indirect inhibition of ERK activation using the MEK inhibitor SL327 did not inhibit seizure potency and duration. Inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling with honokiol but not PQR530, attenuated SNC80 seizure duration in β-arrestin 1 knockout, but honokiol did not reduce SNC80-induced seizures in wild-type mice. Ultimately, our results indicate that β-arrestin 2 is correlated with δOR agonist-induced seizure intensity, but that global β-arrestin 1 knockout mice are a poor model system to investigate their mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arryn T. Blaine
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Yiming Miao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Jinling Yuan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Sophia Palant
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Rebecca J. Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Zhong-Yin Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue University Cancer Center, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Richard. M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue University Cancer Center, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- *Correspondence: Richard. M. van Rijn,
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9
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Meqbil YJ, van Rijn RM. Opportunities and Challenges for In Silico Drug Discovery at Delta Opioid Receptors. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15070873. [PMID: 35890173 PMCID: PMC9324648 DOI: 10.3390/ph15070873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The delta opioid receptor is a Gi-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) with a broad expression pattern both in the central nervous system and the body. The receptor has been investigated as a potential target for a multitude of significant diseases including migraine, alcohol use disorder, ischemia, and neurodegenerative diseases. Despite multiple attempts, delta opioid receptor-selective molecules have not been translated into the clinic. Yet, the therapeutic promise of the delta opioid receptor remains and thus there is a need to identify novel delta opioid receptor ligands to be optimized and selected for clinical trials. Here, we highlight recent developments involving the delta opioid receptor, the closely related mu and kappa opioid receptors, and in the broader area of the GPCR drug discovery research. We focus on the validity and utility of the available delta opioid receptor structures. We also discuss the increased ability to perform ultra-large-scale docking studies on GPCRs, the rise in high-resolution cryo-EM structures, and the increased prevalence of machine learning and artificial intelligence in drug discovery. Overall, we pose that there are multiple opportunities to enable in silico drug discovery at the delta opioid receptor to identify novel delta opioid modulators potentially with unique pharmacological properties, such as biased signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yazan J. Meqbil
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
| | - Richard M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue Institute for Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Septerna Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-765-494-6461
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10
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French AR, van Rijn RM. An updated assessment of the translational promise of G-protein-biased kappa opioid receptor agonists to treat pain and other indications without debilitating adverse effects. Pharmacol Res 2022; 177:106091. [PMID: 35101565 PMCID: PMC8923989 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Kappa opioid receptor (κOR) agonists lack the abuse liability and respiratory depression effects of clinically used mu opioid receptor (μOR) analgesics and are hypothesized to be safer alternatives. However, κOR agonists have limiting adverse effects of their own, including aversion, sedation, and mood effects, that have hampered their clinical translation. Studies performed over the last 15 years have suggested that these adverse effects could result from activation of distinct intracellular signaling pathways that are dependent on β-arrestin, whereas signaling downstream of G protein activation produces antinociception. This led to the hypothesis that agonists biased away from β-arrestin signaling would have improved therapeutic windows over traditional unbiased agonists and allow for clinical development of analgesic G-protein-biased κOR agonists. Given a recent controversy regarding the benefits of G-protein-biased μOR agonists, it is timely to reassess the therapeutic promise of G-protein-biased κOR agonists. Here we review recent discoveries from preclinical κOR studies and critically evaluate the therapeutic windows of G-protein-biased κOR agonists in each of the adverse effects above. Overall, we find that G-protein-biased κOR agonists generally have improved therapeutic window relative to unbiased agonists, although frequently study design limits strong conclusions in this regard. However, a steady flow of newly developed biased κOR agonists paired with recently engineered behavioral and molecular tools puts the κOR field in a prime position to make major advances in our understanding of κOR function and fulfill the promise of translating a new generation of biased κOR agonists to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R French
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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11
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Sex- and β-arrestin-dependent effects of kappa opioid receptor-mediated ethanol consumption. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 216:173377. [PMID: 35364122 PMCID: PMC9064988 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The kappa opioid receptor is a known regulator of ethanol consumption, but the molecular mechanisms behind its actions have been underexplored. The scaffolding protein β-arrestin 2 has previously been implicated in driving ethanol consumption at the related delta opioid receptor and has also been suggested to be a driver behind other negative kappa opioid receptor mediated effects. Here, we used kappa opioid agonists with different efficacies for recruiting β-arrestin 2 and knockout animals to determine whether there is a role for β-arrestin 2 in the modulation of voluntary ethanol consumption by the kappa opioid receptor. We find that an agonist with low β-arrestin 2 efficacy more consistently lowers ethanol consumption than agonists with high efficacy for β-arrestin 2. However, knockdown of β-arrestin 2 amplifies the ethanol consumption-promoting effects of the arrestin-recruiting kappa agonists U50,488 and nalfurafine. We control for potentially confounding sedative effects at the kappa opioid receptor and find that β-arrestin 2 is not necessary for kappa opioid receptor-mediated sedation, and that sedation does not correlate with effects on ethanol consumption. Overall, the results suggest a complex relationship between agonist profile, sex, and kappa opioid receptor modulation of ethanol consumption, with little role for kappa opioid receptor-mediated sedation.
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12
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Identification of a Novel Delta Opioid Receptor Agonist Chemotype with Potential Negative Allosteric Modulator Capabilities. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26237236. [PMID: 34885825 PMCID: PMC8659279 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26237236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The δ-opioid receptor (δOR) holds great potential as a therapeutic target. Yet, clinical drug development, which has focused on δOR agonists that mimic the potent and selective tool compound SNC80 have largely failed. It has increasingly become apparent that the SNC80 scaffold carries with it potent and efficacious β-arrestin recruitment. Here, we screened a relatively small (5120 molecules) physical drug library to identify δOR agonists that underrecruit β-arrestin, as it has been suggested that compounds that efficaciously recruit β-arrestin are proconvulsant. The screen identified a hit compound and further characterization using cellular binding and signaling assays revealed that this molecule (R995045, compound 1) exhibited ten-fold selectivity over µ- and κ-opioid receptors. Compound 1 represents a novel chemotype at the δOR. A subsequent characterization of fourteen analogs of compound 1, however did not identify a more potent δOR agonist. Computational modeling and in vitro characterization of compound 1 in the presence of the endogenous agonist leu-enkephalin suggest compound 1 may also bind allosterically and negatively modulate the potency of Leu-enkephalin to inhibit cAMP, acting as a ‘NAM-agonist’ in this assay. The potential physiological utility of such a class of compounds will need to be assessed in future in vivo assays.
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13
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Gutridge AM, Chakraborty S, Varga BR, Rhoda ES, French AR, Blaine AT, Royer QH, Cui H, Yuan J, Cassell RJ, Szabó M, Majumdar S, van Rijn RM. Evaluation of Kratom Opioid Derivatives as Potential Treatment Option for Alcohol Use Disorder. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:764885. [PMID: 34803709 PMCID: PMC8596301 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.764885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose:Mitragyna speciosa extract and kratom alkaloids decrease alcohol consumption in mice at least in part through actions at the δ-opioid receptor (δOR). However, the most potent opioidergic kratom alkaloid, 7-hydroxymitragynine, exhibits rewarding properties and hyperlocomotion presumably due to preferred affinity for the mu opioid receptor (µOR). We hypothesized that opioidergic kratom alkaloids like paynantheine and speciogynine with reduced µOR potency could provide a starting point for developing opioids with an improved therapeutic window to treat alcohol use disorder. Experimental Approach: We characterized paynantheine, speciociliatine, and four novel kratom-derived analogs for their ability to bind and activate δOR, µOR, and κOR. Select opioids were assessed in behavioral assays in male C57BL/6N WT and δOR knockout mice. Key Results: Paynantheine (10 mg∙kg−1, i.p.) produced aversion in a limited conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm but did not produce CPP with additional conditioning sessions. Paynantheine did not produce robust antinociception but did block morphine-induced antinociception and hyperlocomotion. Yet, at 10 and 30 mg∙kg−1 doses (i.p.), paynantheine did not counteract morphine CPP. 7-hydroxypaynantheine and 7-hydroxyspeciogynine displayed potency at δOR but limited µOR potency relative to 7-hydroxymitragynine in vitro, and dose-dependently decreased voluntary alcohol consumption in WT but not δOR in KO mice. 7-hydroxyspeciogynine has a maximally tolerated dose of at least 10 mg∙kg−1 (s.c.) at which it did not produce significant CPP neither alter general locomotion nor induce noticeable seizures. Conclusion and Implications: Derivatizing kratom alkaloids with the goal of enhancing δOR potency and reducing off-target effects could provide a pathway to develop novel lead compounds to treat alcohol use disorder with an improved therapeutic window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Gutridge
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Soumen Chakraborty
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Heath Sciences and Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Balazs R Varga
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Heath Sciences and Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Elizabeth S Rhoda
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Alexander R French
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Arryn T Blaine
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Quinten H Royer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Haoyue Cui
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Jinling Yuan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Robert J Cassell
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | | | - Susruta Majumdar
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Heath Sciences and Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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14
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Karasawa Y, Miyano K, Fujii H, Mizuguchi T, Kuroda Y, Nonaka M, Komatsu A, Ohshima K, Yamaguchi M, Yamaguchi K, Iseki M, Uezono Y, Hayashida M. In Vitro Analyses of Spinach-Derived Opioid Peptides, Rubiscolins: Receptor Selectivity and Intracellular Activities through G Protein- and β-Arrestin-Mediated Pathways. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26196079. [PMID: 34641621 PMCID: PMC8513079 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26196079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Activated opioid receptors transmit internal signals through two major pathways: the G-protein-mediated pathway, which exerts analgesia, and the β-arrestin-mediated pathway, which leads to unfavorable side effects. Hence, G-protein-biased opioid agonists are preferable as opioid analgesics. Rubiscolins, the spinach-derived naturally occurring opioid peptides, are selective δ opioid receptor agonists, and their p.o. administration exhibits antinociceptive effects. Although the potency and effect of rubiscolins as G-protein-biased molecules are partially confirmed, their in vitro profiles remain unclear. We, therefore, evaluated the properties of rubiscolins, in detail, through several analyses, including the CellKeyTM assay, cADDis® cAMP assay, and PathHunter® β-arrestin recruitment assay, using cells stably expressing µ, δ, κ, or µ/δ heteromer opioid receptors. In the CellKeyTM assay, rubiscolins showed selective agonistic effects for δ opioid receptor and little agonistic or antagonistic effects for µ and κ opioid receptors. Furthermore, rubiscolins were found to be G-protein-biased δ opioid receptor agonists based on the results obtained in cADDis® cAMP and PathHunter® β-arrestin recruitment assays. Finally, we found, for the first time, that they are also partially agonistic for the µ/δ dimers. In conclusion, rubiscolins could serve as attractive seeds, as δ opioid receptor-specific agonists, for the development of novel opioid analgesics with reduced side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Karasawa
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (M.N.); (K.O.)
- Medical Affairs, Viatris Pharmaceuticals Japan Inc., 5-11-2, Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001, Japan
| | - Kanako Miyano
- Division of Cancer Pathophysiology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan;
| | - Hideaki Fujii
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Medicinal Research Laboratories, School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (H.F.); (T.M.)
| | - Takaaki Mizuguchi
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Medicinal Research Laboratories, School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan; (H.F.); (T.M.)
| | - Yui Kuroda
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (M.N.); (K.O.)
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Miki Nonaka
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (M.N.); (K.O.)
| | - Akane Komatsu
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (M.N.); (K.O.)
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Kaori Ohshima
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (M.N.); (K.O.)
| | - Masahiro Yamaguchi
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (M.N.); (K.O.)
- Medical Affairs, Pfizer Japan Inc., 3-22-7, Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0053, Japan
| | - Keisuke Yamaguchi
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Masako Iseki
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yasuhito Uezono
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Pain Control Research, The Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8, Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8461, Japan; (M.N.); (K.O.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Masakazu Hayashida
- Department of Pain Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.K.); (M.Y.); (K.Y.); (M.I.); (M.H.)
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
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15
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Chakraborty S, DiBerto JF, Faouzi A, Bernhard SM, Gutridge AM, Ramsey S, Zhou Y, Provasi D, Nuthikattu N, Jilakara R, Nelson MNF, Asher WB, Eans SO, Wilson LL, Chintala SM, Filizola M, van Rijn RM, Margolis EB, Roth BL, McLaughlin JP, Che T, Sames D, Javitch JA, Majumdar S. A Novel Mitragynine Analog with Low-Efficacy Mu Opioid Receptor Agonism Displays Antinociception with Attenuated Adverse Effects. J Med Chem 2021; 64:13873-13892. [PMID: 34505767 PMCID: PMC8530377 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine (7OH) are the major alkaloids mediating the biological actions of the psychoactive plant kratom. To investigate the structure-activity relationships of mitragynine/7OH templates, we diversified the aromatic ring of the indole at the C9, C10, and C12 positions and investigated their G-protein and arrestin signaling mediated by mu opioid receptors (MOR). Three synthesized lead C9 analogs replacing the 9-OCH3 group with phenyl (4), methyl (5), or 3'-furanyl [6 (SC13)] substituents demonstrated partial agonism with a lower efficacy than DAMGO or morphine in heterologous G-protein assays and synaptic physiology. In assays limiting MOR reserve, the G-protein efficacy of all three was comparable to buprenorphine. 6 (SC13) showed MOR-dependent analgesia with potency similar to morphine without respiratory depression, hyperlocomotion, constipation, or place conditioning in mice. These results suggest the possibility of activating MOR minimally (G-protein Emax ≈ 10%) in cell lines while yet attaining maximal antinociception in vivo with reduced opioid liabilities.
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MESH Headings
- Analgesics, Opioid/adverse effects
- Analgesics, Opioid/chemical synthesis
- Analgesics, Opioid/metabolism
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Animals
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Molecular Docking Simulation
- Molecular Dynamics Simulation
- Molecular Structure
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Secologanin Tryptamine Alkaloids/adverse effects
- Secologanin Tryptamine Alkaloids/chemical synthesis
- Secologanin Tryptamine Alkaloids/metabolism
- Secologanin Tryptamine Alkaloids/pharmacology
- Structure-Activity Relationship
- Mice
- Rats
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumen Chakraborty
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences
& Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine,
St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology,
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United
States
| | - Jeffrey F. DiBerto
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel
Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United
States
| | - Abdelfattah Faouzi
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences
& Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine,
St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology,
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United
States
| | - Sarah M. Bernhard
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences
& Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine,
St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology,
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United
States
| | - Anna M. Gutridge
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology,
College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907,
United States
| | - Steven Ramsey
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at
Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Yuchen Zhou
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at
Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Davide Provasi
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at
Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Nitin Nuthikattu
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences
& Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine,
St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology,
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United
States
| | - Rahul Jilakara
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences
& Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine,
St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology,
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United
States
| | - Melissa N. F. Nelson
- Departments of Psychiatry and Molecular Pharmacology and
Therapeutics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and
Surgeons, and Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric
Institute, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Wesley B. Asher
- Departments of Psychiatry and Molecular Pharmacology and
Therapeutics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and
Surgeons, and Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric
Institute, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Shainnel O. Eans
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida,
Gainesville, Florida 032610, United States
| | - Lisa L. Wilson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida,
Gainesville, Florida 032610, United States
| | - Satyanarayana M. Chintala
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of
Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States
| | - Marta Filizola
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine
at Mount Sinai, New York, New York 10029, United States
| | - Richard M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology,
College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907,
United States
| | - Elyssa B. Margolis
- Department of Neurology, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences,
University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94158,
United States
| | - Bryan L. Roth
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel
Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United
States
| | - Jay P. McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida,
Gainesville, Florida 032610, United States
| | - Tao Che
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences
& Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine,
St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology,
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United
States; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel
Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United
States
| | - Dalibor Sames
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York 10027,
United States
| | - Jonathan A. Javitch
- Departments of Psychiatry and Molecular Pharmacology and
Therapeutics, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and
Surgeons, and Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric
Institute, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Susruta Majumdar
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences
& Pharmacy at St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine,
St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology,
Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United
States
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16
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Ko MJ, Chiang T, Mukadam AA, Mulia GE, Gutridge AM, Lin A, Chester JA, van Rijn RM. β-Arrestin-dependent ERK signaling reduces anxiety-like and conditioned fear-related behaviors in mice. Sci Signal 2021; 14:14/694/eaba0245. [PMID: 34344831 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aba0245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are implicated in the regulation of fear and anxiety. GPCR signaling involves canonical G protein pathways but can also engage downstream kinases and effectors through scaffolding interactions mediated by β-arrestin. Here, we investigated whether β-arrestin signaling regulates anxiety-like and fear-related behavior in mice in response to activation of the GPCR δ-opioid receptor (δOR or DOR). Administration of β-arrestin-biased δOR agonists to male C57BL/6 mice revealed β-arrestin 2-dependent activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) in the dorsal hippocampus and amygdala and β-arrestin 1-dependent activation of ERK1/2 in the nucleus accumbens. In mice, β-arrestin-biased agonist treatment was associated with reduced anxiety-like and fear-related behaviors, with some overlapping and isoform-specific input. In contrast, applying a G protein-biased δOR agonist decreased ERK1/2 activity in all three regions as well as the dorsal striatum and was associated with increased fear-related behavior without effects on baseline anxiety. Our results indicate a complex picture of δOR neuromodulation in which β-arrestin 1- and 2-dependent ERK signaling in specific brain subregions suppresses behaviors associated with anxiety and fear and opposes the effects of G protein-biased signaling. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of noncanonical β-arrestin-dependent GPCR signaling in the regulation of these interrelated emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mee Jung Ko
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Terrance Chiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Arbaaz A Mukadam
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Department of Psychological Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Grace E Mulia
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Anna M Gutridge
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Angel Lin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Julia A Chester
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Department of Psychological Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA. .,Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.,Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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17
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De Neve J, Barlow TMA, Tourwé D, Bihel F, Simonin F, Ballet S. Comprehensive overview of biased pharmacology at the opioid receptors: biased ligands and bias factors. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:828-870. [PMID: 34223156 PMCID: PMC8221262 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00041a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the main challenges in contemporary medicinal chemistry is the development of safer analgesics, used in the treatment of pain. Currently, moderate to severe pain is still treated with the "gold standard" opioids whose long-term often leads to severe side effects. With the discovery of biased agonism, the importance of this area of pharmacology has grown exponentially over the past decade. Of these side effects, tolerance, opioid misuse, physical dependence and substance use disorder (SUD) stand out, since these have led to many deaths over the past decades in both USA and Europe. New therapeutic molecules that induce a biased response at the opioid receptors (MOR, DOR, KOR and NOP receptor) are able to circumvent these side effects and, consequently, serve as more advantageous therapies with great promise. The concept of biased signaling extends far beyond the already sizeable field of GPCR pharmacology and covering everything would be vastly outside the scope of this review which consequently covers the biased ligands acting at the opioid family of receptors. The limitation of quantifying bias, however, makes this a controversial subject, where it is dependent on the reference ligand, the equation or the assay used for the quantification. Hence, the major issue in the field of biased ligands remains the translation of the in vitro profiles of biased signaling, with corresponding bias factors to in vivo profiles showing the presence or the lack of specific side effects. This review comprises a comprehensive overview of biased ligands in addition to their bias factors at individual members of the opioid family of receptors, as well as bifunctional ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolien De Neve
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Thomas M A Barlow
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Dirk Tourwé
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Frédéric Bihel
- Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR 7200, CNRS Université de Strasbourg Illkirch France
| | - Frédéric Simonin
- Biotechnologie et Signalisation Cellulaire, UMR 7242, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg Illkirch France
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
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18
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Chakraborty S, Majumdar S. Natural Products for the Treatment of Pain: Chemistry and Pharmacology of Salvinorin A, Mitragynine, and Collybolide. Biochemistry 2021; 60:1381-1400. [PMID: 32930582 PMCID: PMC7982354 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.0c00629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pain remains a very pervasive problem throughout medicine. Classical pain management is achieved through the use of opiates belonging to the mu opioid receptor (MOR) class, which have significant side effects that hinder their utility. Pharmacologists have been trying to develop opioids devoid of side effects since the isolation of morphine from papaver somniferum, more commonly known as opium by Sertürner in 1804. The natural products salvinorin A, mitragynine, and collybolide represent three nonmorphinan natural product-based targets, which are potent selective agonists of opioid receptors, and emerging next-generation analgesics. In this work, we review the phytochemistry and medicinal chemistry efforts on these templates and their effects on affinity, selectivity, analgesic actions, and a myriad of other opioid-receptor-related behavioral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumen Chakraborty
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States
| | - Susruta Majumdar
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States
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19
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Uprety R, Che T, Zaidi SA, Grinnell SG, Varga BR, Faouzi A, Slocum ST, Allaoa A, Varadi A, Nelson M, Bernhard SM, Kulko E, Le Rouzic V, Eans SO, Simons CA, Hunkele A, Subrath J, Pan YX, Javitch JA, McLaughlin JP, Roth BL, Pasternak GW, Katritch V, Majumdar S. Controlling opioid receptor functional selectivity by targeting distinct subpockets of the orthosteric site. eLife 2021; 10:e56519. [PMID: 33555255 PMCID: PMC7909954 DOI: 10.7554/elife.56519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Controlling receptor functional selectivity profiles for opioid receptors is a promising approach for discovering safer analgesics; however, the structural determinants conferring functional selectivity are not well understood. Here, we used crystal structures of opioid receptors, including the recently solved active state kappa opioid complex with MP1104, to rationally design novel mixed mu (MOR) and kappa (KOR) opioid receptor agonists with reduced arrestin signaling. Analysis of structure-activity relationships for new MP1104 analogs points to a region between transmembrane 5 (TM5) and extracellular loop (ECL2) as key for modulation of arrestin recruitment to both MOR and KOR. The lead compounds, MP1207 and MP1208, displayed MOR/KOR Gi-partial agonism with diminished arrestin signaling, showed efficient analgesia with attenuated liabilities, including respiratory depression and conditioned place preference and aversion in mice. The findings validate a novel structure-inspired paradigm for achieving beneficial in vivo profiles for analgesia through different mechanisms that include bias, partial agonism, and dual MOR/KOR agonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajendra Uprety
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Tao Che
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
| | - Saheem A Zaidi
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Steven G Grinnell
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Departments of Psychiatry, Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & SurgeonsNew YorkUnited States
| | - Balázs R Varga
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
| | - Abdelfattah Faouzi
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
| | - Samuel T Slocum
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
| | - Abdullah Allaoa
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - András Varadi
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Melissa Nelson
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Departments of Psychiatry, Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & SurgeonsNew YorkUnited States
| | - Sarah M Bernhard
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
| | - Elizaveta Kulko
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Departments of Psychiatry, Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & SurgeonsNew YorkUnited States
| | - Valerie Le Rouzic
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Shainnel O Eans
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Chloe A Simons
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Amanda Hunkele
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Joan Subrath
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Ying Xian Pan
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New JerseyNewarkUnited States
| | - Jonathan A Javitch
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Departments of Psychiatry, Pharmacology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & SurgeonsNew YorkUnited States
| | - Jay P McLaughlin
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Bryan L Roth
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
| | - Gavril W Pasternak
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
| | - Vsevolod Katritch
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Susruta Majumdar
- Department of Neurology and Molecular Pharmacology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkUnited States
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis School of MedicineSt. LouisUnited States
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20
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Creed SM, Gutridge AM, Argade MD, Hennessy MR, Friesen JB, Pauli GF, van Rijn RM, Riley AP. Isolation and Pharmacological Characterization of Six Opioidergic Picralima nitida Alkaloids. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2021; 84:71-80. [PMID: 33326237 PMCID: PMC7932029 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c01036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The seeds of the akuamma tree (Picralima nitida) have been used as a traditional treatment for pain and fever. Previous studies have attributed these effects to a series of indole alkaloids found within the seed extracts; however, these pharmacological studies were significantly limited in scope. Herein, an isolation protocol employing pH-zone-refining countercurrent chromatography was developed to provide six of the akuamma alkaloids in high purity and quantities sufficient for more extensive biological evaluation. Five of these alkaloids, akuammine (1), pseudo-akuammigine (3), akuammicine (4), akuammiline (5), and picraline (6), were evaluated against a panel of >40 central nervous system receptors to identify that their primary targets are the opioid receptors. Detailed in vitro investigations revealed 4 to be a potent kappa opioid receptor agonist, and three alkaloids (1-3) were shown to have micromolar activity at the mu opioid receptor. The mu opioid receptor agonists were further evaluated for analgesic properties but demonstrated limited efficacy in assays of thermal nociception. These findings contradict previous reports of the antinociceptive properties of the P. nitida alkaloids and the traditional use of akuamma seeds as analgesics. Nevertheless, their opioid-preferring activity does suggest the akuamma alkaloids provide distinct scaffolds from which novel opioids with unique pharmacologic properties and therapeutic utility can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone M Creed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Anna M Gutridge
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Malaika D Argade
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Madeline R Hennessy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - J Brent Friesen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacognosy Institute, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Guido F Pauli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacognosy Institute, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Andrew P Riley
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
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21
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Bertels Z, Witkowski WD, Asif S, Siegersma K, van Rijn RM, Pradhan AA. A non-convulsant delta-opioid receptor agonist, KNT-127, reduces cortical spreading depression and nitroglycerin-induced allodynia. Headache 2021; 61:170-178. [PMID: 33326598 PMCID: PMC8082730 DOI: 10.1111/head.14019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine if the non-convulsant delta-opioid receptor (DOR) agonist, KNT-127, could inhibit migraine-associated endpoints. BACKGROUND The DOR has been identified as a therapeutic target for migraine. However, the development of delta agonists is limited as some ligands have seizurogenic properties, which may be related to their ability to induce receptor internalization. While both pro- and non-convulsant delta agonists can reduce migraine-associated allodynia, only the proconvulsant agonist, SNC80, has been shown to decrease cortical spreading depression (CSD). It is unclear if the ability of delta agonists to modulate cortical activity is related to the same signaling mechanisms that produce proconvulsant effects. METHODS The effects of the non-convulsant delta agonist, KNT-127, were examined. Repetitive CSD was induced in female C57BL6/J (n = 6/group) mice by continuous application of KCl and the effect of KNT-127/vehicle (Veh) on both local field potentials and optical intrinsic signals was determined. To assess the effect of KNT-127 on established chronic migraine-associated pain, male and female C57BL6/J mice were treated with nitroglycerin (NTG; 10 mg/kg, ip) every other day for 9 days and tested with KNT-127 (5 mg/kg, sc) or Veh on day 10 (n = 6/group). DOR-enhanced green fluorescent protein mice (n = 4/group) were used to confirm the internalization properties of KNT-127 in the trigeminal ganglia, trigeminal nucleus caudalis, and somatosensory cortex. RESULTS KNT-127 inhibited CSD events (t(10) = 3.570, p = 0.0051). In addition, this delta agonist also reversed established cephalic allodynia in the NTG model of chronic migraine (F(1, 20) = 12.80, p < 0.01). Furthermore, KNT-127 caused limited internalization of DOR in key migraine processing regions. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that the antimigraine effects of DOR agonists can be separated from their proconvulsant effects. This data provides valuable information for the continued development of delta agonists for the treatment of migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah Asif
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | | | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University
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22
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Mahmoodkhani M, Amini M, Derafshpour L, Ghasemi M, Mehranfard N. Negative relationship between brain α 1A-AR neurotransmission and βArr2 levels in anxious adolescent rats subjected to early life stress. Exp Brain Res 2020; 238:2833-2844. [PMID: 33025031 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-020-05937-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Early-life stress is correlated with the development of anxiety-related behavior in adolescence, but underlying mechanisms remain poorly known. The α1A-adrenergic receptor (AR) is linked to mood regulation and its function is assumed to be regulated by β-arrestins (βArrs) via desensitization and downregulation. Here, we investigated correlation between changes in α1A-AR and βArr2 levels in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus of adolescent and adult male rats subjected to maternal separation (MS) and their relationship with anxiety-like behavior in adolescence. MS was performed 3 h per day from postnatal days 2-11 and anxiety-like behavior was evaluated in the elevated plus-maze and open field tests. The protein levels were examined using western blot assay. MS decreased α1A-AR expression and increased βArr2 expression in both brain regions of adolescent rats, while induced reverse changes in adulthood. MS adolescent rats demonstrated higher anxiety-type behavior and lower activity in behavioral tests than controls. Decreased α1A-AR levels in MS adolescence strongly correlated with reduced time spent in the open field central area, consistent with increased anxiety-like behavior. An anxiety-like phenotype was mimicked by acute and chronic treatment of developing rats with prazosin, an α1A-AR antagonist, suggesting α1A-AR downregulation may facilitate anxiety behavior in MS adolescent rats. Together, our results indicate a negative correlation between α1A-AR neurotransmission and βArr2 levels in both adults and anxious-adolescent rats and suggest that increased βArr2 levels may contribute to posttranslational regulation of α1A-AR and modulation of anxiety-like behavior in adolescent rats. This may provide a path to develop more effective anxiolytic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mahmoodkhani
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amini
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Leila Derafshpour
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Maedeh Ghasemi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nasrin Mehranfard
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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23
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Faouzi A, Varga BR, Majumdar S. Biased Opioid Ligands. Molecules 2020; 25:E4257. [PMID: 32948048 PMCID: PMC7570672 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Achieving effective pain management is one of the major challenges associated with modern day medicine. Opioids, such as morphine, have been the reference treatment for moderate to severe acute pain not excluding chronic pain modalities. Opioids act through the opioid receptors, the family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that mediate pain relief through both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Four types of opioid receptors have been described, including the μ-opioid receptor (MOR), κ-opioid receptor (KOR), δ-opioid receptor (DOR), and the nociceptin opioid peptide receptor (NOP receptor). Despite the proven success of opioids in treating pain, there are still some inherent limitations. All clinically approved MOR analgesics are associated with adverse effects, which include tolerance, dependence, addiction, constipation, and respiratory depression. On the other hand, KOR selective analgesics have found limited clinical utility because they cause sedation, anxiety, dysphoria, and hallucinations. DOR agonists have also been investigated but they have a tendency to cause convulsions. Ligands targeting NOP receptor have been reported in the preclinical literature to be useful as spinal analgesics and as entities against substance abuse disorders while mixed MOR/NOP receptor agonists are useful as analgesics. Ultimately, the goal of opioid-related drug development has always been to design and synthesize derivatives that are equally or more potent than morphine but most importantly are devoid of the dangerous residual side effects and abuse potential. One proposed strategy is to take advantage of biased agonism, in which distinct downstream pathways can be activated by different molecules working through the exact same receptor. It has been proposed that ligands not recruiting β-arrestin 2 or showing a preference for activating a specific G-protein mediated signal transduction pathway will function as safer analgesic across all opioid subtypes. This review will focus on the design and the pharmacological outcomes of biased ligands at the opioid receptors, aiming at achieving functional selectivity.
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MESH Headings
- Analgesics, Opioid/chemistry
- Analgesics, Opioid/metabolism
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Analgesics, Opioid/therapeutic use
- Arrestin/metabolism
- Furans/chemistry
- Furans/metabolism
- Humans
- Ligands
- Pain/drug therapy
- Pyrones/chemistry
- Pyrones/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Susruta Majumdar
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63131, USA; (A.F.); (B.R.V.)
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24
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Robins MT, Heinricher MM, Ryabinin AE. From Pleasure to Pain, and Back Again: The Intricate Relationship Between Alcohol and Nociception. Alcohol Alcohol 2020; 54:625-638. [PMID: 31509854 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agz067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS A close and bidirectional relationship between alcohol consumption and pain has been previously reported and discussed in influential reviews. The goal of the present narrative review is to provide an update on the developments in this field in order to guide future research objectives. METHODS We evaluated both epidemiological and neurobiological literature interrogating the relationship between alcohol use and pain for the presence of significant effects. We outlined studies on interactions between alcohol use and pain using both self-reports and objective experimental measures and discussed potential underlying mechanisms of these interactions. RESULTS Epidemiological, preclinical and clinical literature point to three major interactions between alcohol use and pain: (a) alcohol use leading to hyperalgesia, (b) alcohol use moderating pain and hyperalgesia and (c) chronic pain as a risk factor predisposing to alcohol relapse. Neurobiological studies using animal models to assess these interactions have transitioned from mostly involuntary modes of experimenter-controlled alcohol administration to self-administration procedures, and increasingly indicate that neuronal circuits implicated in both withdrawal and anticipation stages of alcohol use disorder also have a role in chronic pain. Mechanistically, alterations in GABA, glutamate, the corticotropin-releasing factor system, endogenous opioids and protein kinase C appear to play crucial roles in this maladaptive overlap. CONCLUSIONS Many of the principles explaining the interactions between alcohol and pain remain on a strong foundation, but continuing progress in modeling these interactions and underlying systems will provide a clearer basis for understanding, and ultimately treating, the damaging aspects of this interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meridith T Robins
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Mary M Heinricher
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Andrey E Ryabinin
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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25
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Gutridge AM, Robins MT, Cassell RJ, Uprety R, Mores KL, Ko MJ, Pasternak GW, Majumdar S, van Rijn RM. G protein-biased kratom-alkaloids and synthetic carfentanil-amide opioids as potential treatments for alcohol use disorder. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:1497-1513. [PMID: 31705528 PMCID: PMC7060366 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Mitragyna speciosa, more commonly known as kratom, is a plant that contains opioidergic alkaloids but is unregulated in most countries. Kratom is used in the self-medication of chronic pain and to reduce illicit and prescription opioid dependence. Kratom may be less dangerous than typical opioids because of the stronger preference of kratom alkaloids to induce receptor interaction with G proteins over β-arrestin proteins. We hypothesized that kratom (alkaloids) can also reduce alcohol intake. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We pharmacologically characterized kratom extracts, kratom alkaloids (mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, paynantheine, and speciogynine) and synthetic carfentanil-amide opioids for their ability to interact with G proteins and β-arrestin at μ, δ, and κ opioid receptors in vitro. We used C57BL/6 mice to assess to which degree these opioids could reduce alcohol intake and whether they had rewarding properties. KEY RESULTS Kratom alkaloids were strongly G protein-biased at all three opioid receptors and reduced alcohol intake, but kratom and 7-hydroxymitragynine were rewarding. Several results indicated a key role for δ opioid receptors, including that the synthetic carfentanil-amide opioid MP102-a G protein-biased agonist with modest selectivity for δ opioid receptors-reduced alcohol intake, whereas the G protein-biased μ opioid agonist TRV130 did not. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our results suggest that kratom extracts can decrease alcohol intake but still carry significant risk upon prolonged use. Development of more δ opioid-selective synthetic opioids may provide a safer option than kratom to treat alcohol use disorder with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. Gutridge
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of PharmacyPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
| | - Meridith T. Robins
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of PharmacyPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
| | - Robert J. Cassell
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of PharmacyPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
| | - Rajendra Uprety
- Department of Neurology and Molecular PharmacologyMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNew York
| | - Kendall L. Mores
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of PharmacyPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
| | - Mee Jung Ko
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of PharmacyPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
- Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate ProgramPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
| | - Gavril W. Pasternak
- Department of Neurology and Molecular PharmacologyMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNew York
| | - Susruta Majumdar
- Department of Neurology and Molecular PharmacologyMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew YorkNew York
- Center for Clinical PharmacologySt. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMissouri
| | - Richard M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of PharmacyPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
- Purdue Institute for Drug DiscoveryPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
- Purdue Institute for Integrative NeurosciencePurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
- Purdue Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate ProgramPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndiana
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Cassell RJ, Sharma KK, Su H, Cummins BR, Cui H, Mores KL, Blaine AT, Altman RA, van Rijn RM. The Meta-Position of Phe 4 in Leu-Enkephalin Regulates Potency, Selectivity, Functional Activity, and Signaling Bias at the Delta and Mu Opioid Receptors. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24244542. [PMID: 31842282 PMCID: PMC6943441 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24244542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
As tool compounds to study cardiac ischemia, the endogenous δ-opioid receptors (δOR) agonist Leu5-enkephalin and the more metabolically stable synthetic peptide (d-Ala2, d-Leu5)-enkephalin are frequently employed. However, both peptides have similar pharmacological profiles that restrict detailed investigation of the cellular mechanism of the δOR’s protective role during ischemic events. Thus, a need remains for δOR peptides with improved selectivity and unique signaling properties for investigating the specific roles for δOR signaling in cardiac ischemia. To this end, we explored substitution at the Phe4 position of Leu5-enkephalin for its ability to modulate receptor function and selectivity. Peptides were assessed for their affinity to bind to δORs and µ-opioid receptors (µORs) and potency to inhibit cAMP signaling and to recruit β-arrestin 2. Additionally, peptide stability was measured in rat plasma. Substitution of the meta-position of Phe4 of Leu5-enkephalin provided high-affinity ligands with varying levels of selectivity and bias at both the δOR and µOR and improved peptide stability, while substitution with picoline derivatives produced lower-affinity ligands with G protein biases at both receptors. Overall, these favorable substitutions at the meta-position of Phe4 may be combined with other modifications to Leu5-enkephalin to deliver improved agonists with finely tuned potency, selectivity, bias and drug-like properties.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- CHO Cells
- Cricetulus
- Enkephalin, Leucine/genetics
- Enkephalin, Leucine/pharmacology
- Humans
- Phenylalanine
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/genetics
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/genetics
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Signal Transduction/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Cassell
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (R.J.C.); (H.S.); (K.L.M.); (A.T.B.)
| | - Krishna K. Sharma
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA;
| | - Hongyu Su
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (R.J.C.); (H.S.); (K.L.M.); (A.T.B.)
| | | | - Haoyue Cui
- College of Wuya, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China;
| | - Kendall L. Mores
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (R.J.C.); (H.S.); (K.L.M.); (A.T.B.)
| | - Arryn T. Blaine
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (R.J.C.); (H.S.); (K.L.M.); (A.T.B.)
| | - Ryan A. Altman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA;
- Correspondence: (R.A.A.); (R.M.v.R.)
| | - Richard M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (R.J.C.); (H.S.); (K.L.M.); (A.T.B.)
- Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Correspondence: (R.A.A.); (R.M.v.R.)
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27
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Yamada D, Yanagisawa S, Yoshizawa K, Yanagita S, Oka JI, Nagase H, Saitoh A. Selective agonists of the δ-opioid receptor, KNT-127 and SNC80, act differentially on extinction learning of contextual fear memory in mice. Neuropharmacology 2019; 160:107792. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.107792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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28
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Nagase H, Saitoh A. Research and development of κ opioid receptor agonists and δ opioid receptor agonists. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 205:107427. [PMID: 31654658 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.107427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Delta opioid delta receptor (DOP) agonists were expected to be analgesics and many researchers tried to develop the SNC80 derivatives. However, the derivatives were dropped at the stage of early clinical trials because of undesirable side effects and weak analgesia. On the other hand, DOP agonists have been proposed as attractive candidates for the novel psychotropic drugs. We recently succeeded in synthesizing a novel selective DOP agonist KNT-127. KNT-127 produced neither catalepsy nor convulsive effects. We have demonstrated that KNT-127 has potent anxiolytic-like effect in rat models of innate anxiety. This anxiolytic-like effect was independent from known adverse effect of benzodiazepine, such as memory impairment, motor coordination deficits, and ethanol interactions. We have also demonstrated that KNT-127 showed potent and rapid antidepressant-like effects in rat models of depression. This antidepressant-like effect was independent from known adverse effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), such as digestive symptoms. Therefore, we propose that DOP should be considered as an attractive target for the development of novel psychotropic drugs, without producing the adverse effects associated with benzodiazepine anxiolytics and SSRI antidepressants. Very recently, we developed another delta agonist NC-2800 with a different structure. NC-2800 is now in the preclinical stage using the CiCLE fund supported by AMED (Japanese Agency for Medical Research and Development).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Nagase
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1, Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
| | - Akiyoshi Saitoh
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
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29
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Mores KL, Cummins BR, Cassell RJ, van Rijn RM. A Review of the Therapeutic Potential of Recently Developed G Protein-Biased Kappa Agonists. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:407. [PMID: 31057409 PMCID: PMC6478756 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Between 2000 and 2005 several studies revealed that morphine is more potent and exhibits fewer side effects in beta-arrestin 2 knockout mice. These findings spurred efforts to develop opioids that signal primarily via G protein activation and do not, or only very weakly, recruit beta-arrestin. Development of such molecules targeting the mu opioid receptor initially outpaced those targeting the kappa, delta and nociceptin opioid receptors, with the G protein-biased mu opioid agonist oliceridine/TRV130 having completed phase III clinical trials with improved therapeutic window to treat moderate-to-severe acute pain. Recently however, there has been a sharp increase in the development of novel G protein-biased kappa agonists. It is hypothesized that G protein-biased kappa agonists can reduce pain and itch, but exhibit fewer side effects, such as anhedonia and psychosis, that have thus far limited the clinical development of unbiased kappa opioid agonists. Here we summarize recently discovered G protein-biased kappa agonists, comparing structures, degree of signal bias and preclinical effects. We specifically reviewed nalfurafine, 22-thiocyanatosalvinorin A (RB-64), mesyl-salvinorin B, 2-(4-(furan-2-ylmethyl)-5-((4-methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl)thio)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)pyridine (triazole 1.1), 3-(2-((cyclopropylmethyl)(phenethyl)amino)ethyl)phenol (HS666), N-n-butyl-N-phenylethyl-N-3-hydroxyphenylethyl-amine (compound 5/BPHA), 6-guanidinonaltrindole (6′GNTI), and collybolide. These agonists encompass a variety of chemical scaffolds and range in both their potency and efficacy in terms of G protein signaling and beta-arrestin recruitment. Thus unsurprisingly, the behavioral responses reported for these agonists are not uniform. Yet, it is our conclusion that the kappa opioid field will benefit tremendously from future studies that compare several biased agonists and correlate the degree of signaling bias to a particular pharmacological response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendall L Mores
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Benjamin R Cummins
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Robert J Cassell
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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30
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Stanczyk MA, Livingston KE, Chang L, Weinberg ZY, Puthenveedu MA, Traynor JR. The δ-opioid receptor positive allosteric modulator BMS 986187 is a G-protein-biased allosteric agonist. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:1649-1663. [PMID: 30710458 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The δ-opioid receptor is an emerging target for the management of chronic pain and depression. Biased signalling, the preferential activation of one signalling pathway over another downstream of δ-receptors, may generate better therapeutic profiles. BMS 986187 is a positive allosteric modulator of δ-receptors. Here, we ask if BMS 986187 can directly activate the receptor from an allosteric site, without an orthosteric ligand, and if a signalling bias is generated. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We used several clonal cell lines expressing δ-receptors, to assess effects of BMS 986187 on events downstream of δ-receptors by measuring G-protein activation, β-arrestin 2 recruitment, receptor phosphorylation, loss of surface receptor expression, ERK1/ERK2 phosphorylation, and receptor desensitization. KEY RESULTS BMS 986187 is a G protein biased allosteric agonist, relative to β-arrestin 2 recruitment. Despite showing direct and potent G protein activation, BMS 986187 has a low potency to recruit β-arrestin 2. This appears to reflect the inability of BMS 986187 to elicit any significant receptor phosphorylation, consistent with low receptor internalization and a slower onset of desensitization, compared with the full agonist SNC80. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This is the first evidence of biased agonism mediated through direct binding to an allosteric site on an opioid receptor, without a ligand at the orthosteric site. Our data suggest that agonists targeting δ-receptors, or indeed any GPCR, through allosteric sites may be a novel way to promote signalling bias and thereby potentially produce a more specific pharmacology than can be observed by activation via the orthosteric site.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Alexander Stanczyk
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kathryn E Livingston
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Louise Chang
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Zara Y Weinberg
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Manojkumar A Puthenveedu
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - John R Traynor
- Department of Pharmacology and Edward F. Domino Research Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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31
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Cassell RJ, Mores KL, Zerfas BL, Mahmoud AH, Lill MA, Trader DJ, van Rijn RM. Rubiscolins are naturally occurring G protein-biased delta opioid receptor peptides. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 29:450-456. [PMID: 30591345 PMCID: PMC6421079 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2018.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The impact that β-arrestin proteins have on G protein-coupled receptor trafficking, signaling and physiological behavior has gained much appreciation over the past decade. A number of studies have attributed the side effects associated with the use of naturally occurring and synthetic opioids, such as respiratory depression and constipation, to excessive recruitment of β-arrestin. These findings have led to the development of biased opioid small molecule agonists that do not recruit β-arrestin, activating only the canonical G protein pathway. Similar G protein-biased small molecule opioids have been found to occur in nature, particularly within kratom, and opioids within salvia have served as a template for the synthesis of other G protein-biased opioids. Here, we present the first report of naturally occurring peptides that selectively activate G protein signaling pathways at δ opioid receptors, but with minimal β-arrestin recruitment. Specifically, we find that rubiscolin peptides, which are produced as cleavage products of the plant protein rubisco, bind to and activate G protein signaling at δ opioid receptors. However, unlike the naturally occurring δ opioid peptides leu-enkephalin and deltorphin II, the rubiscolin peptides only very weakly recruit β-arrestin 2 and have undetectable recruitment of β-arrestin 1 at the δ opioid receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Cassell
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Kendall L Mores
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Breanna L Zerfas
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Amr H Mahmoud
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Markus A Lill
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Darci J Trader
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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32
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Mores KL, Cassell RJ, van Rijn RM. Arrestin recruitment and signaling by G protein-coupled receptor heteromers. Neuropharmacology 2018; 152:15-21. [PMID: 30419245 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) have a long history of being considered a prime target for drug development to treat a plethora of diseases and disorders. In fact in 1827, the first approved therapeutic in the United States was morphine, a drug that targets a GPCR, namely the mu opioid receptor. However, with the rise in biologics over the last two decades, the market share of small molecules targeting GPCRs has declined. Still, two phenomena concerning GPCR pharmacology, specifically heteromerization and biased signaling, have bolstered new interests in this particular class of drug targets. Heteromerization, the process by which two distinct GPCRs come together to form a unique signaling complex, has been demonstrated between many different GPCRs and has spurred efforts to discover heteromer selective drugs. Additionally, the discovery of biased signaling, a concept by which a GPCR can transduce intracellular signaling by favoring a specific pathway (e.g. G-protein) over another pathway (e.g. arrestin), has led to the development of signal-biased drugs with potentially fewer side effects. Our goal for this review is to highlight studies that have investigated the interplay of these two phenomena by providing an overview of the current literature describing instances where GPCR heteromers have distinct arrestin recruitment profiles when compared to the individual GPCRs, with a focus on those GPCRs expressed in the central nervous system. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Receptor heteromers and their allosteric receptor-receptor interactions'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendall L Mores
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, United States
| | - Robert J Cassell
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, United States
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, United States; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, United States; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, United States.
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Vicente-Sanchez A, Dripps IJ, Tipton AF, Akbari H, Akbari A, Jutkiewicz EM, Pradhan AA. Tolerance to high-internalizing δ opioid receptor agonist is critically mediated by arrestin 2. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:3050-3059. [PMID: 29722902 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Opioid δ receptor agonists are potent antihyperalgesics in chronic pain models, but tolerance develops after prolonged use. Previous evidence indicates that distinct forms of tolerance occur depending on the internalization properties of δ receptor agonists. As arrestins are important in receptor internalization, we investigated the role of arrestin 2 (β-arrestin 1) in mediating the development of tolerance induced by high- and low-internalizing δ receptor agonists. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We evaluated the effect of two δ receptor agonists with similar analgesic potencies, but either high-(SNC80) or low-(ARM390) internalization properties in wild-type (WT) and arrestin 2 knockout (KO) mice. We compared tolerance to the antihyperalgesic effects of these compounds in a model of inflammatory pain. We also examined tolerance to the convulsant effect of SNC80. Furthermore, effect of chronic treatment with SNC80 on δ agonist-stimulated [35 S]-GTPγS binding was determined in WT and KO mice. KEY RESULTS Arrestin 2 KO resulted in increased drug potency, duration of action and decreased acute tolerance to the antihyperalgesic effects of SNC80. In contrast, ARM390 produced similar effects in both WT and KO animals. Following chronic treatment, we found a marked decrease in the extent of tolerance to SNC80-induced antihyperalgesia and convulsions in arrestin 2 KO mice. Accordingly, δ receptors remained functionally coupled to G proteins in arrestin 2 KO mice chronically treated with SNC80. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Overall, these results suggest that δ receptor agonists interact with arrestins in a ligand-specific manner, and tolerance to high- but not low-internalizing agonists are preferentially regulated by arrestin 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Vicente-Sanchez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Isaac J Dripps
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Alycia F Tipton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Heba Akbari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Areeb Akbari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Amynah A Pradhan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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34
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Robins MT, Chiang T, Berry JN, Ko MJ, Ha JE, van Rijn RM. Behavioral Characterization of β-Arrestin 1 Knockout Mice in Anxiety-Like and Alcohol Behaviors. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:54. [PMID: 29615880 PMCID: PMC5869203 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
β-Arrestin 1 and 2 are highly expressed proteins involved in the desensitization of G protein-coupled receptor signaling which also regulate a variety of intracellular signaling pathways. Gene knockout (KO) studies suggest that the two isoforms are not homologous in their effects on baseline and drug-induced behavior; yet, the role of β-arrestin 1 in the central nervous system has been less investigated compared to β-arrestin 2. Here, we investigate how global β-arrestin 1 KO affects anxiety-like and alcohol-related behaviors in male and female C57BL/6 mice. We observed increased baseline locomotor activity in β-arrestin 1 KO animals compared with wild-type (WT) or heterozygous (HET) mice with a sex effect. KO male mice were less anxious in a light/dark transition test, although this effect may have been confounded by increased locomotor activity. No differences in sucrose intake were observed between genotypes or sexes. Female β-arrestin 1 KO mice consumed more 10% alcohol than HET females in a limited 4-h access, two-bottle choice, drinking-in-the-dark model. In a 20% alcohol binge-like access model, female KO animals consumed significantly more alcohol than HET and WT females. A significant sex effect was observed in both alcohol consumption models, with female mice consuming greater amounts of alcohol than males relative to body weight. Increased sensitivity to latency to loss of righting reflex (LORR) was observed in β-arrestin 1 KO mice although no differences were observed in duration of LORR. Overall, our efforts suggest that β-arrestin 1 may be protective against increased alcohol consumption in females and hyperactivity in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meridith T Robins
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Terrance Chiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Jennifer N Berry
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Mee Jung Ko
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Jiwon E Ha
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Abstract
This paper is the thirty-ninth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2016 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior, and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia, stress and social status, tolerance and dependence, learning and memory, eating and drinking, drug abuse and alcohol, sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology, mental illness and mood, seizures and neurologic disorders, electrical-related activity and neurophysiology, general activity and locomotion, gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions, cardiovascular responses, respiration and thermoregulation, and immunological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and CUNY Neuroscience Collaborative, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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36
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Márquez-Gómez R, Robins MT, Gutiérrez-Rodelo C, Arias JM, Olivares-Reyes JA, van Rijn RM, Arias-Montaño JA. Functional histamine H 3 and adenosine A 2A receptor heteromers in recombinant cells and rat striatum. Pharmacol Res 2018; 129:515-525. [PMID: 29217157 PMCID: PMC6429923 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In the striatum, histamine H3 receptors (H3Rs) are co-expressed with adenosine A2A receptors (A2ARs) in the cortico-striatal glutamatergic afferents and the GABAergic medium-sized spiny neurons that originate the indirect pathway of the basal ganglia. This location allows H3Rs and A2ARs to regulate the striatal GABAergic and glutamatergic transmission. However, whether these receptors can physically interact has not yet been assessed. To test this hypothesis, a heteromer-selective in vitro assay was used to detect functional complementation between a chimeric A2AR302-Gαqi4 and wild-type H3Rs in transfected HEK-293T cells. H3R activation with the agonist RAMH resulted in Ca2+ mobilization (pEC50 7.31 ± 0.23; maximal stimulation, Emax 449 ± 25% of basal) indicative of receptor heterodimerization. Functional H3R-A2AR heteromers were confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation and observations of differential cAMP signaling when both receptors were co-expressed in the same cells. In membranes from rat striatal synaptosomes, H3R activation decreased A2AR affinity for the agonist CGS-21680 (pKi values 8.10 ± 0.04 and 7.70 ± 0.04). Moreover, H3Rs and A2ARs co-immunoprecipitated in protein extracts from striatal synaptosomes. These results support the existence of a H3R-A2AR heteromer with possible physiological implications for the modulation of the intra-striatal transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Márquez-Gómez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Cinvestav-IPN, Av. IPN 2508, Zacatenco, 07360 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Meridith T Robins
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA
| | - Citlaly Gutiérrez-Rodelo
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Cinvestav-IPN, Av. IPN 2508, Zacatenco, 07360 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Juan-Manuel Arias
- Programa de Neurociencias-UIICSE, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, UNAM, Av. de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, 54090 Estado de México, Mexico
| | | | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA
| | - José-Antonio Arias-Montaño
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Cinvestav-IPN, Av. IPN 2508, Zacatenco, 07360 Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Abstract
Delta opioid receptors (δORs) regulate a number of physiological functions, and agonists for this receptor are being pursued for the treatment of mood disorders, chronic pain, and migraine. A major challenge to the development of these compounds is that, like many G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), agonists at the δOR can induce very different signaling and receptor trafficking events. This concept, known as ligand-directed signaling, functional selectivity, or biased agonism, can result in different agonists producing highly distinct behavioral consequences. In this chapter, we highlight the in vitro and in vivo evidence for ligand-directed signaling and trafficking at the δOR. A number of biological implications of agonist-directed signaling at the δOR have been demonstrated. Importantly, ligand-specific effects can impact both acute behavioral effects of delta agonists, as well as the long-term adaptations induced by chronic drug treatment. A better understanding of the specific signaling cascades that regulate these differential behavioral effects would help to guide rational drug design, ultimately resulting in δOR agonists with fewer adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Vicente-Sanchez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amynah A Pradhan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, UIC, 1601 W Taylor St (MC 912), Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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Robins MT, Chiang T, Mores KL, Alongkronrusmee D, van Rijn RM. Critical Role for G i/o-Protein Activity in the Dorsal Striatum in the Reduction of Voluntary Alcohol Intake in C57Bl/6 Mice. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:112. [PMID: 29686629 PMCID: PMC5900748 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The transition from non-dependent alcohol use to alcohol dependence involves increased activity of the dorsal striatum. Interestingly, the dorsal striatum expresses a large number of inhibitory G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which when activated may inhibit alcohol-induced increased activity and can decrease alcohol consumption. Here, we explore the hypothesis that dorsal striatal Gi/o-protein activation is sufficient to reduce voluntary alcohol intake. Using a voluntary, limited-access, two-bottle choice, drink-in-the-dark model of alcohol (10%) consumption, we validated the importance of Gi/o signaling in this region by locally expressing neuron-specific, adeno-associated-virus encoded Gi/o-coupled muscarinic M4 designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADD) in the dorsal striatum and observed a decrease in alcohol intake upon DREADD activation. We validated our findings by activating Gi/o-coupled delta-opioid receptors (DORs), which are natively expressed in the dorsal striatum, using either a G-protein biased agonist or a β-arrestin-biased agonist. Local infusion of TAN-67, an in vitro-determined Gi/o-protein biased DOR agonist, decreased voluntary alcohol intake in wild-type and β-arrestin-2 knockout (KO) mice. SNC80, a β-arrestin-2 biased DOR agonist, increased alcohol intake in wild-type mice; however, SNC80 decreased alcohol intake in β-arrestin-2 KO mice, thus resulting in a behavioral outcome generally observed for Gi/o-biased agonists and suggesting that β-arrestin recruitment is required for SNC80-increased alcohol intake. Overall, these results suggest that activation Gi/o-coupled GPCRs expressed in the dorsal striatum, such as the DOR, by G-protein biased agonists may be a potential strategy to decrease voluntary alcohol consumption and β-arrestin recruitment is to be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meridith T Robins
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue University Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Terrance Chiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue University Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Kendall L Mores
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Doungkamol Alongkronrusmee
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue University Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue University Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Saitoh A, Tominaga H, Ogawa Y, Irukayama-Tomobe Y, Yamada M, Yanagisawa M, Nagase H. Effects of the delta opioid receptor agonist KNT-127 on electroencephalographic activity in mice. Pharmacol Rep 2017; 70:350-354. [PMID: 29477045 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2017.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously reported that the novel selective delta opioid receptor (DOP) agonist KNT-127 did not cause convulsions in mice, whereas the prototype DOP agonist SNC80 did. Previous studies have reported that SNC80 caused electroencephalographic (EEG) disturbances in rodents. However, whether KNT-127 affects EEG responses is unknown. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare the effect of KNT-127 on EEG responses with that of SNC80 in mice. METHODS For behavioral experiments, male C57BL6/J mice were injected intraperitoneally with either KNT-127 (30 mg/kg) or SNC80 (30 mg/kg) and monitored for convulsions and subsequent catalepsy-like behavior for 10 min immediately after drug treatment. For EEG recording experiments, EEG electrodes were implanted into the right hemisphere. EEG signals exceeding twice the baseline amplitude were defined as seizure spikes. RESULTS KNT-127 did not induce convulsive or catalepsy-like behaviors in mice and did not result in seizure spikes, while significantly higher EEG power density was observed at 2 Hz. In contrast, SNC80 administration resulted in convulsive behaviors, seizure spikes, and significantly higher EEG power density between 2 and 10 Hz in mice. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we clearly demonstrated that KNT-127 administration induces neither convulsive effects nor seizure spikes in mice. We propose that KNT-127 should be considered a candidate compound for the development of improved DOP-based psychotropic drug that lack the convulsive properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiyoshi Saitoh
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromu Tominaga
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Ogawa
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoko Irukayama-Tomobe
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiko Yamada
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Yanagisawa
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nagase
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
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The phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor roflumilast decreases ethanol consumption in C57BL/6J mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2017; 234:2409-2419. [PMID: 28477089 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4631-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Alcohol use disorders have become one of the most damaging psychiatric disorders in the world; however, there are no ideal treatments in clinic. Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), an enzyme that specifically hydrolyzes intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP), has been involved in alcohol use disorders. Roflumilast is the first PDE4 inhibitor approved for treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases in clinic. It was of particular interest to researchers to determine whether roflumilast altered ethanol consumption. OBJECTIVES The present study tried to determine the effects of roflumilast on ethanol intake and preference. METHODS We used the two-bottle choice paradigm to assess ethanol intake and preference in C57BL/6J mice treated with roflumilast (1, 3, or 10 mg/kg) or rolipram (0.5 mg/kg; positive control). The effect of roflumilast was verified using the ethanol drinking-in-dark (DID) test. Locomotor activity was examined using the open-field test. Intake of sucrose or quinine was also tested to determine whether natural reward preference and aversive stimuli were involved in the effect of PDE4 inhibitors. RESULTS Similar to rolipram, roflumilast decreased ethanol intake and preference in two-bottle choice and DID tests in a dose-dependent manner, with significant changes at the dose of 10 mg/kg; in contrast, roflumilast did not affect sucrose or quinine drinking, although it decreased locomotor activity at the high dose within 3 h of treatment. CONCLUSIONS These data provide novel demonstration for the effect of roflumilast on ethanol consumption and suggest that roflumilast may be beneficial for treatment of alcoholism.
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Porter-Stransky KA, Weinshenker D. Arresting the Development of Addiction: The Role of β-Arrestin 2 in Drug Abuse. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 361:341-348. [PMID: 28302862 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.240622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The protein β-arrestin (βarr) 2 directly interacts with receptors and signaling pathways that mediate the behavioral effects of drugs of abuse, making it a prime candidate for therapeutic interventions. βarr2 drives desensitization and internalization of G protein-coupled receptors, including dopamine, opioid, and cannabinoid receptors, and it can also trigger G protein-independent intracellular signaling. βarr2 mediates several drug-induced behaviors, but the relationship is complex and dependent on the type of behavior (e.g., psychomotor versus reward), the class of drug (e.g., psychostimulant versus opioid), and the circuit being interrogated (e.g., brain region, cell type, and specific receptor ligand). Here we discuss the current state of research concerning the contribution of βarr2 to the psychomotor and rewarding effects of addictive drugs. Next we identify key knowledge gaps and suggest new tools and approaches needed to further elucidate the neuroanatomical substrates and neurobiological mechanisms to explain how βarr2 modulates behavioral responses to drugs of abuse, as well as its potential as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Weinshenker
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
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Abstract
Depression is a pervasive and debilitating mental disorder that is inadequately treated by current pharmacotherapies in a majority of patients. Although opioids have long been known to regulate mood states, the use of opioids to treat depression is rarely discussed. This chapter explores the preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the antidepressant-like effects of opioid ligands, and in particular, delta opioid receptor (DOR) agonists. DOR agonists have been shown to produce antidepressant-like effects in a number of animal models. Some DOR agonists also produce convulsions which has limited their clinical utility. However, DOR agonists that generate antidepressant-like effects without convulsions have recently been developed and these drugs are beginning to be evaluated in humans. Work investigating potential mechanisms of action for the antidepressant-like effects of DOR agonists is also explored. Understanding mechanisms that give rise to DOR-mediated behaviors is critical for the development of DOR drugs with improved safety and clinical utility, and future work should be devoted to elucidating these pathways.
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43
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Dripps IJ, Wang Q, Neubig RR, Rice KC, Traynor JR, Jutkiewicz EM. The role of regulator of G protein signaling 4 in delta-opioid receptor-mediated behaviors. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2017; 234:29-39. [PMID: 27624599 PMCID: PMC5203942 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-016-4432-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins act as negative modulators of G protein signaling. RGS4 has been shown to negatively modulate G protein signaling mediated by the delta opioid receptor (DOPr) in vitro. However, the role of RGS4 in modulating DOPr-mediated behaviors in vivo has not been elucidated. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare the ability of the DOPr agonist SNC80 to induce DOPr-mediated antinociception, antihyperalgesia, antidepressant-like effects, and convulsions in wild-type and RGS4 knockout mice. METHODS Antinociception was assessed in the acetic acid stretch assay. Antihyperalgesia was measured in a nitroglycerin-induced thermal hyperalgesia assay. Antidepressant-like effects were evaluated in the forced swim and tail suspension tests. Mice were also observed for convulsive activity post-SNC80 treatment. SNC80-induced phosphorylation of MAP kinase in striatal tissue from RGS4 wild-type and knockout mice was quantified by Western blot. DOPr number from forebrain tissue was measured using [3H]DPDPE saturation binding. RESULTS Elimination of RGS4 potentiated SNC80-induced antinociception and antihyperalgesia. SNC80-induced antidepressant-like effects were potentiated in RGS4 knockout mice in the forced swim test but not in the tail suspension test. Additionally, RGS4 knockout did not alter SNC80-induced convulsions. SNC80-induced phosphorylation of MAP kinase was potentiated in striatum from RGS4 knockout mice. Loss of RGS4 did not affect total DOPr number. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these findings demonstrate that reduction of RGS4 functionally may increase the therapeutic index of SNC80. These results provide the first evidence of differential regulation of DOPr-mediated behaviors by RGS proteins and G protein signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac J. Dripps
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Richard R. Neubig
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University
| | - Kenner C. Rice
- Drug Design and Synthesis Section, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse
| | - John R Traynor
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School
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Alongkronrusmee D, Chiang T, van Rijn RM. Involvement of delta opioid receptors in alcohol withdrawal-induced mechanical allodynia in male C57BL/6 mice. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 167:190-8. [PMID: 27567436 PMCID: PMC5325684 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a legal drug, alcohol is commonly abused and it is estimated that 17 million adults in the United States suffer from alcohol use disorder. Heavy alcoholics can experience withdrawal symptoms including anxiety and mechanical allodynia that can facilitate relapse. The molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are not well understood, which stifles development of new therapeutics. Here we investigate whether delta opioid receptors (DORs) play an active role in alcohol withdrawal-induced mechanical allodynia (AWiMA) and if DOR agonists may provide analgesic relief from AWiMA. METHODS To study AWiMA, adult male wild-type and DOR knockout C57BL/6 mice were exposed to alcohol by a voluntary drinking model or oral gavage exposure model, which we developed and validated here. We also used the DOR-selective agonist TAN-67 and antagonist naltrindole to examine the involvement of DORs in AWiMA, which was measured using a von Frey model of mechanical allodynia. RESULTS We created a robust model of alcohol withdrawal-induced anxiety and mechanical allodynia by orally gavaging mice with 3g/kg alcohol for three weeks. AWiMA was exacerbated and prolonged in DOR knockout mice as well as by pharmacological blockade of DORs compared to control mice. However, analgesia induced by TAN-67 was attenuated during withdrawal in alcohol-gavaged mice. CONCLUSIONS DORs appear to play a protective role in the establishment of AWiMA. Our current results indicate that DORs could be targeted to prevent or reduce the development of AWiMA during alcohol use; however, DORs may be a less suitable target to treat AWiMA during active withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doungkamol Alongkronrusmee
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907
| | - Terrance Chiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907
| | - Richard M. van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907,Corresponding author: Richard M. van Rijn;
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Chiang T, Sansuk K, van Rijn RM. β-Arrestin 2 dependence of δ opioid receptor agonists is correlated with alcohol intake. Br J Pharmacol 2016; 173:332-43. [PMID: 26507558 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE δ Opioid receptor agonists are being developed as potential treatments for depression and alcohol use disorders. This is particularly interesting as depression is frequently co-morbid with alcohol use disorders. Yet we have previously shown that δ receptor agonists range widely in their ability to modulate alcohol intake; certain δ receptor agonists actually increase alcohol consumption in mice. We propose that variations in β-arrestin 2 recruitment contribute to the differential behavioural profile of δ receptor agonists. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We used three diarylmethylpiperazine-based non-peptidic δ receptor selective agonists (SNC80, SNC162 and ARM390) and three structurally diverse δ receptor agonists (TAN-67, KNT127 and NIH11082). We tested these agonists in cAMP and β-arrestin 2 recruitment assays and a behavioural assay of alcohol intake in male C57BL/6 mice. We used β-arrestin 2 knockout mice and a model of depression-like behaviour to further study the role of β-arrestin 2 in δ receptor pharmacology. KEY RESULTS All six tested δ receptor agonists were full agonists in the cAMP assay but displayed distinct β-arrestin 2 recruitment efficacy. The efficacy of δ receptor agonists to recruit β-arrestin 2 positively correlated with their ability to increase alcohol intake (P < 0.01). The effects of the very efficacious recruiter SNC80 on alcohol intake, alcohol place preference and depression-like behaviour were β-arrestin 2-dependent. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our finding that δ receptor agonists that strongly recruit β-arrestin 2 can increase alcohol intake carries important ramifications for drug development of δ receptor agonists for treatment of alcohol use disorders and depressive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Chiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Agonist-Specific Recruitment of Arrestin Isoforms Differentially Modify Delta Opioid Receptor Function. J Neurosci 2016; 36:3541-51. [PMID: 27013682 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4124-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Ligand-specific recruitment of arrestins facilitates functional selectivity of G-protein-coupled receptor signaling. Here, we describe agonist-selective recruitment of different arrestin isoforms to the delta opioid receptor in mice. A high-internalizing delta opioid receptor agonist (SNC80) preferentially recruited arrestin 2 and, in arrestin 2 knock-outs (KOs), we observed a significant increase in the potency of SNC80 to inhibit mechanical hyperalgesia and decreased acute tolerance. In contrast, the low-internalizing delta agonists (ARM390, JNJ20788560) preferentially recruited arrestin 3 with unaltered behavioral effects in arrestin 2 KOs. Surprisingly, arrestin 3 KO revealed an acute tolerance to these low-internalizing agonists, an effect never observed in wild-type animals. Furthermore, we examined delta opioid receptor-Ca(2+)channel coupling in dorsal root ganglia desensitized by ARM390 and the rate of resensitization was correspondingly decreased in arrestin 3 KOs. Live-cell imaging in HEK293 cells revealed that delta opioid receptors are in pre-engaged complexes with arrestin 3 at the cell membrane and that ARM390 strengthens this membrane interaction. The disruption of these complexes in arrestin 3 KOs likely accounts for the altered responses to low-internalizing agonists. Together, our results show agonist-selective recruitment of arrestin isoforms and reveal a novel endogenous role of arrestin 3 as a facilitator of resensitization and an inhibitor of tolerance mechanisms. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Agonists that bind to the same receptor can produce highly distinct signaling events and arrestins are a major mediator of this ligand bias. Here, we demonstrate that delta opioid receptor agonists differentially recruit arrestin isoforms. We found that the high-internalizing agonist SNC80 preferentially recruits arrestin 2 and knock-out (KO) of this protein results in increased efficacy of SNC80. In contrast, low-internalizing agonists (ARM390 and JNJ20788560) preferentially recruit arrestin 3 and, surprisingly, KO of arrestin 3 produces acute tolerance and impaired receptor resensitization to these agonists. Arrestin 3 is in pre-engaged complexes with the delta opioid receptor at the cell membrane and low-internalizing agonists promote this interaction. This study reveals a novel role for arrestin 3 as a facilitator of receptor resensitization.
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47
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Vicente-Sanchez A, Segura L, Pradhan AA. The delta opioid receptor tool box. Neuroscience 2016; 338:145-159. [PMID: 27349452 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 05/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the delta opioid receptor has attracted increasing interest as a target for the treatment of chronic pain and emotional disorders. Due to their therapeutic potential, numerous tools have been developed to study the delta opioid receptor from both a molecular and a functional perspective. This review summarizes the most commonly available tools, with an emphasis on their use and limitations. Here, we describe (1) the cell-based assays used to study the delta opioid receptor. (2) The features of several delta opioid receptor ligands, including peptide and non-peptide drugs. (3) The existing approaches to detect delta opioid receptors in fixed tissue, and debates that surround these techniques. (4) Behavioral assays used to study the in vivo effects of delta opioid receptor agonists; including locomotor stimulation and convulsions that are induced by some ligands, but not others. (5) The characterization of genetically modified mice used specifically to study the delta opioid receptor. Overall, this review aims to provide a guideline for the use of these tools with the final goal of increasing our understanding of delta opioid receptor physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Segura
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, United States
| | - Amynah A Pradhan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, United States.
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48
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Alongkronrusmee D, Chiang T, van Rijn RM. Delta Opioid Pharmacology in Relation to Alcohol Behaviors. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2016; 247:199-225. [PMID: 27316912 DOI: 10.1007/164_2016_30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Delta opioid receptors (DORs) are heavily involved in alcohol-mediated processes in the brain. In this chapter we provide an overview of studies investigating how alcohol directly impacts DOR pharmacology and of early studies indicating DOR modulation of alcohol behavior. We will offer a brief summary of the different animal species used in alcohol studies investigating DORs followed by a broader overview of the types of alcohol behaviors modulated by DORs. We will highlight a small set of studies investigating the relationship between alcohol and DORs in analgesia. We will then provide an anatomical overview linking DOR expression in specific brain regions to different alcohol behaviors. In this section, we will provide two models that try to explain how endogenous opioids acting at DORs may influence alcohol behaviors. Next, we will provide an overview of studies investigating certain new aspects of DOR pharmacology, including the formation of heteromers and biased signaling. Finally, we provide a short overview of the genetics of the DORs in relation to alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and a short statement on the potential of using DOR-based therapeutics for treatment of AUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doungkamol Alongkronrusmee
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Terrance Chiang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Richard M van Rijn
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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49
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Saitoh A, Nagase H. Delta Opioid Receptor (DOR) Ligands and Pharmacology: Development of Indolo- and Quinolinomorphinan Derivatives Based on the Message-Address Concept. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2016; 247:3-19. [PMID: 27787711 DOI: 10.1007/164_2016_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The pharmacology of the delta opioid receptor (DOR) has lagged, mainly due to the lack of an agonist with high potency and selectivity in vivo. The DOR is now receiving increasing attention, and there has been progress in the synthesis of better novel ligands. The discovery of a selective receptor DOR antagonist, naltrindole (NTI), stimulated the design and synthesis of (±)TAN-67, which was designed based on the message-address concept and the accessory site theory. Intensive studies using (±)TAN-67 determined the DOR-mediated various pharmacological effects, such as antinociceptive effects for painful diabetic neuropathy and cardiovascular protective effects. We improved the agonist activity of TAN-67 to afford SN-28, which was modified to KNT-127, a novel compound that improved the blood-brain barrier permeability. In addition, KNT-127 showed higher selectivity for the DOR and had potent agonist activity following systemic administration. Interestingly, KNT-127 produced no convulsive effects, unlike prototype DOR agonists. The KNT-127 type derivatives with a quinolinomorphinan structure are expected to be promising candidates for the development of therapeutic DOR agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiyoshi Saitoh
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health, Tokyo, 187-8553, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nagase
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1, Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
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