1
|
Targowska-Duda KM, Peters D, Marcus JL, Zribi G, Toll L, Ozawa A. Functional and anatomical analyses of active spinal circuits in a mouse model of chronic pain. Pain 2024; 165:685-697. [PMID: 37820238 PMCID: PMC10922047 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003068] [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: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Decades of efforts in elucidating pain mechanisms, including pharmacological, neuroanatomical, and physiological studies have provided insights into how nociceptive information transmits from the periphery to the brain and the locations receiving nociceptive signals. However, little is known about which specific stimulus-dependent activated neurons, amongst heterogeneous neural environments, discriminatively evoke the cognate pain behavior. We here shed light on the population of neurons in the spinal cord activated by a painful stimulus to identify chronic pain-dependent activated neuronal subsets using Fos2A-iCreER (TRAP2) mice. We have found a large number of neurons activated by a normally nonpainful stimulus in the spinal cord of spinal nerve-ligated mice, compared with sham. Neuronal activation was observed in laminae I and II outer under heat hyperalgesia. A large number of neurons in laminae II inner were activated in both mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia conditions, while mechanical allodynia tends to be the only stimulus that activates cells at lamina II inner dorsal region. Neuroanatomical analyses using spinal cell markers identified a large number of spinal inhibitory neurons that are recruited by both mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia. Of interest, spinal neurons expressing calretinin, calbindin, and parvalbumin were activated differently with distinct pain modalities (ie, mechanical allodynia vs heat hyperalgesia). Chemogenetic inhibition of those activated neurons significantly and specifically reduced the response to the pain stimulus associated with the stimulus modality originally given to the animals. These findings support the idea that spinal neuronal ensembles underlying nociceptive transmission undergo dynamic changes to regulate selective pain responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna M. Targowska-Duda
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, United States
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, 20-093, Poland
| | - Darian Peters
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, United States
| | - Jason L. Marcus
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, United States
| | - Gilles Zribi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, United States
| | - Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, United States
- Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, United States
- Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li L, Chen J, Li YQ. The Downregulation of Opioid Receptors and Neuropathic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065981. [PMID: 36983055 PMCID: PMC10053236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065981] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) refers to pain caused by primary or secondary damage or dysfunction of the peripheral or central nervous system, which seriously affects the physical and mental health of 7-10% of the general population. The etiology and pathogenesis of NP are complex; as such, NP has been a hot topic in clinical medicine and basic research for a long time, with researchers aiming to find a cure by studying it. Opioids are the most commonly used painkillers in clinical practice but are regarded as third-line drugs for NP in various guidelines due to the low efficacy caused by the imbalance of opioid receptor internalization and their possible side effects. Therefore, this literature review aims to evaluate the role of the downregulation of opioid receptors in the development of NP from the perspective of dorsal root ganglion, spinal cord, and supraspinal regions. We also discuss the reasons for the poor efficacy of opioids, given the commonness of opioid tolerance caused by NP and/or repeated opioid treatments, an angle that has received little attention to date; in-depth understanding might provide a new method for the treatment of NP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, The Fourth Military Medical University, No. 169, West Changle Road, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, The Fourth Military Medical University, No. 169, West Changle Road, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Yun-Qing Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology and K. K. Leung Brain Research Centre, The Fourth Military Medical University, No. 169, West Changle Road, Xi'an 710032, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Caminski ES, Antunes FTT, Souza IA, Dallegrave E, Zamponi GW. Regulation of N-type calcium channels by nociceptin receptors and its possible role in neurological disorders. Mol Brain 2022; 15:95. [PMID: 36434658 PMCID: PMC9700961 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-022-00982-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of nociceptin opioid peptide receptors (NOP, a.k.a. opioid-like receptor-1, ORL-1) by the ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ, leads to G protein-dependent regulation of Cav2.2 (N-type) voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). This typically causes a reduction in calcium currents, triggering changes in presynaptic calcium levels and thus neurotransmission. Because of the widespread expression patterns of NOP and VGCCs across multiple brain regions, the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, and the dorsal root ganglia, this results in the alteration of numerous neurophysiological features. Here we review the regulation of N-type calcium channels by the NOP-nociceptin system in the context of neurological conditions such as anxiety, addiction, and pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuelle Sistherenn Caminski
- grid.412344.40000 0004 0444 6202Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Laboratory of Research in Toxicology (LAPETOX), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS Brazil
| | - Flavia Tasmin Techera Antunes
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Ivana Assis Souza
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Eliane Dallegrave
- grid.412344.40000 0004 0444 6202Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Laboratory of Research in Toxicology (LAPETOX), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS Brazil
| | - Gerald W. Zamponi
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Coluzzi F, Rullo L, Scerpa MS, Losapio LM, Rocco M, Billeci D, Candeletti S, Romualdi P. Current and Future Therapeutic Options in Pain Management: Multi-mechanistic Opioids Involving Both MOR and NOP Receptor Activation. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:617-632. [PMID: 35616826 PMCID: PMC9166888 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00924-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Opioids are widely used in chronic pain management, despite major concerns about their risk of adverse events, particularly abuse, misuse, and respiratory depression from overdose. Multi-mechanistic opioids, such as tapentadol and buprenorphine, have been widely studied as a valid alternative to traditional opioids for their safer profile. Special interest was focused on the role of the nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor in terms of analgesia and improved tolerability. Nociceptin opioid peptide receptor agonists were shown to reinforce the antinociceptive effect of mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonists and modulate some of their adverse effects. Therefore, multi-mechanistic opioids involving both MOR and NOP receptor activation became a major field of pharmaceutical and clinical investigations. Buprenorphine was re-discovered in a new perspective, as an atypical analgesic and as a substitution therapy for opioid use disorders; and buprenorphine derivatives have been tested in animal models of nociceptive and neuropathic pain. Similarly, cebranopadol, a full MOR/NOP receptor agonist, has been clinically evaluated for its potent analgesic efficacy and better tolerability profile, compared with traditional opioids. This review overviews pharmacological mechanisms of the NOP receptor system, including its role in pain management and in the development of opioid tolerance. Clinical data on buprenorphine suggest its role as a safer alternative to traditional opioids, particularly in patients with non-cancer pain; while data on cebranopadol still require phase III study results to approve its introduction on the market. Other bifunctional MOR/NOP receptor ligands, such as BU08028, BU10038, and AT-121, are currently under pharmacological investigations and could represent promising analgesic agents for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Coluzzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
- Unit Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rullo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Maria Sole Scerpa
- Unit Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Maria Losapio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Monica Rocco
- Department of Surgical and Medical Science and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Sanzio Candeletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Romualdi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhou X, Chen D, Yan Y, Li Q, Xing W, Liu Y, Chen Y, Wang D, Yuan Y, Xie J, Zeng W, Pan J. The nociceptin receptor promotes autophagy through NF-kB signaling and is transcriptionally regulated by E2F1 in HCC. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:165. [PMID: 35383175 PMCID: PMC8983730 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00978-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Opioids and their receptors are involved in cancer progression. However, the roles of the nociceptin receptor (NOP) and its antagonist (JTC801) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are poorly understood. The prognostic value of NOP expression was evaluated using tissue microarray and immunohistochemical staining analyses in a human HCC cohort. The biological role and mechanism of NOP in HCC tumor growth were determined in vitro and in vivo. We found that NOP was associated with the clinicopathological features and survival outcomes of HCC patients. NOP overexpression promoted HCC growth in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, NOP activated NF-kB signaling to promote autophagy, which inhibited apoptosis, in HCC cells. An inhibitor of autophagy, 3-MA, and an inhibitor of NF-kB, JSH-23, attenuated the function of NOP in HCC. E2F1 was identified as a transcription factor of NOP. The oncogenic role of NOP was positively regulated by E2F1. Furthermore, JTC801, a selective antagonist of NOP, abolished the function of NOP by inhibiting NF-kB signaling and autophagy. Our study demonstrates that NOP is an oncogene in HCC. We provide a potential therapeutic candidate and prognostic predictor for HCC. JTC801 could become a potential drug for HCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuang Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongtai Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huizhou Municipal Central Hospital, 516001, Huizhou, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Xing
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanling Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology & Operating Theatre, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yonghua Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, 518000, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dongyin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunfei Yuan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Oncology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingdun Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weian Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jiahao Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, 510060, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Degrandmaison J, Rochon-Haché S, Parent JL, Gendron L. Knock-In Mouse Models to Investigate the Functions of Opioid Receptors in vivo. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:807549. [PMID: 35173584 PMCID: PMC8841419 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.807549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their low expression levels, complex multi-pass transmembrane structure, and the current lack of highly specific antibodies, the assessment of endogenous G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) remains challenging. While most of the research regarding their functions was performed in heterologous systems overexpressing the receptor, recent advances in genetic engineering methods have allowed the generation of several unique mouse models. These animals proved to be useful to investigate numerous aspects underlying the physiological functions of GPCRs, including their endogenous expression, distribution, interactome, and trafficking processes. Given their significant pharmacological importance and central roles in the nervous system, opioid peptide receptors (OPr) are often referred to as prototypical receptors for the study of GPCR regulatory mechanisms. Although only a few GPCR knock-in mouse lines have thus far been generated, OPr are strikingly well represented with over 20 different knock-in models, more than half of which were developed within the last 5 years. In this review, we describe the arsenal of OPr (mu-, delta-, and kappa-opioid), as well as the opioid-related nociceptin/orphanin FQ (NOP) receptor knock-in mouse models that have been generated over the past years. We further highlight the invaluable contribution of such models to our understanding of the in vivo mechanisms underlying the regulation of OPr, which could be conceivably transposed to any other GPCR, as well as the limitations, future perspectives, and possibilities enabled by such tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jade Degrandmaison
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Département de Médecine, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Quebec Network of Junior Pain Investigators, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Samuel Rochon-Haché
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Département de Médecine, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Quebec Network of Junior Pain Investigators, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Luc Parent
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Département de Médecine, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Jean-Luc Parent,
| | - Louis Gendron
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Quebec Pain Research Network, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Louis Gendron,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kiguchi N, Ding H, Kishioka S, Ko MC. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Peptide Receptor-Related Ligands as Novel Analgesics. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 20:2878-2888. [PMID: 32384033 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620666200508082615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite similar distribution patterns and intracellular events observed in the nociceptin/ orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor and other opioid receptors, NOP receptor activation displays unique pharmacological profiles. Several researchers have identified a variety of peptide and nonpeptide ligands to determine the functional roles of NOP receptor activation and observed that NOP receptor- related ligands exhibit pain modality-dependent pain processing. Importantly, NOP receptor activation results in anti-nociception and anti-hypersensitivity at the spinal and supraspinal levels regardless of the experimental settings in non-human primates (NHPs). Given that the NOP receptor agonists synergistically enhance mu-opioid peptide (MOP) receptor agonist-induced anti-nociception, it has been hypothesized that dual NOP and MOP receptor agonists may display promising functional properties as analgesics. Accumulating evidence indicates that the mixed NOP/opioid receptor agonists demonstrate favorable functional profiles. In NHP studies, bifunctional NOP/MOP partial agonists (e.g., AT-121, BU08028, and BU10038) exerted potent anti-nociception via NOP and MOP receptor activation; however, dose-limiting adverse effects associated with the MOP receptor activation, including respiratory depression, itch sensation, physical dependence, and abuse liability, were not observed. Moreover, a mixed NOP/opioid receptor agonist, cebranopadol, presented promising outcomes in clinical trials as a novel analgesic. Collectively, the dual agonistic actions on NOP and MOP receptors, with appropriate binding affinities and efficacies, may be a viable strategy to develop innovative and safe analgesics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norikazu Kiguchi
- Department of Pharmacology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Huiping Ding
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States
| | - Shiroh Kishioka
- Department of Pharmacology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Mei-Chuan Ko
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Toll L, Cippitelli A, Ozawa A. The NOP Receptor System in Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders: Discrepancies, Peculiarities and Clinical Progress in Developing Targeted Therapies. CNS Drugs 2021; 35:591-607. [PMID: 34057709 PMCID: PMC8279133 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-021-00821-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor and its endogenous ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) are the fourth members of the opioid receptor and opioid peptide families. Although they have considerable sequence homology to the other family members, they are not considered opioid per se because they do not have pharmacological profiles similar to the other family members. The number of NOP receptors in the brain is higher than the other family members, and NOP receptors can be found throughout the brain. Because of the widespread distribution of NOP receptors, N/OFQ and other peptide and small molecule agonists and antagonists have extensive CNS activities. Originally thought to be anti-opioid, NOP receptor agonists block some opioid activities, potentiate others, and modulate other activities not affected by traditional opiates. Because the effect of receptor activation can be dependent upon site of administration, state of the animal, and other variables, the study of NOP receptors has been fraught with contradictions and inconsistencies. In this article, the actions and controversies pertaining to NOP receptor activation and inhibition are discussed with respect to CNS disorders including pain (acute, chronic, and migraine), drug abuse, anxiety and depression. In addition, progress towards clinical use of NOP receptor-directed compounds is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
| | - Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sliepen SH, Korioth J, Christoph T, Tzschentke TM, Diaz‐delCastillo M, Heegaard A, Rutten K. The nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor system as a target to alleviate cancer-induced bone pain in rats: Model validation and pharmacological evaluation. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:1995-2007. [PMID: 31724155 PMCID: PMC8246843 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cancer-induced bone pain remains inadequately controlled, and current standard of care analgesics is accompanied by several side effects. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor agonists have demonstrated broad analgesic properties in rodent neuropathic and inflammatory pain models. Here, we investigate the analgesic potential of NOP receptor activation in a rodent cancer-induced bone pain model. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Model validation by intratibial inoculation in male Sprague Dawley rats was performed with varying MRMT-1/Luc2 cell quantities (0.5-1.5 × 106 ·ml-1 ) and a behavioural battery (>14 days post-surgery) including evoked and non-evoked readouts: paw pressure test, cold plate, von Frey, open field, and weight distribution. Anti-allodynic potential of the endogenous NOP receptor ligand nociceptin (i.t.) and NOP receptor agonist Ro65-6570 ( i.p.) was tested using von Frey filaments, followed by a combination experiment with Ro65-6570 and the NOP receptor antagonist J-113397 (i.p.). Plasma cytokine levels and NOP receptor gene expression in dorsal root ganglion (DRG, L4-L6) and bone marrow were examined. KEY RESULTS Inoculation with 1.5 × 106 ·ml-1 of MRMT-1/Luc2 cells resulted in a robust and progressive pain-related phenotype. Nociceptin and Ro65-6570 treatment inhibited cancer-induced mechanical allodynia. J-113397 selectively antagonized the effect of Ro65-6570. MRMT-1/Luc2-bearing animals demonstrated elevated plasma cytokine levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6 and IL-10 plus unaltered NOP-r gene expression in DRG and reduced expression in bone marrow. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Nociceptin and Ro65-6570 selectively and dose-dependently reversed cancer-induced bone pain-like behaviour. The NOP receptor system may be a potential target for cancer-induced bone pain treatment. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed issue on The molecular pharmacology of bone and cancer-elated bone diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.9/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonny H.J. Sliepen
- Grünenthal InnovationGrünenthal GmbHAachenGermany
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | | | | | | | - Marta Diaz‐delCastillo
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Anne‐Marie Heegaard
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Kris Rutten
- Grünenthal InnovationGrünenthal GmbHAachenGermany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
This paper is the forty-first consecutive installment of the annual anthological review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, summarizing articles published during 2018 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides and receptors as well as effects of opioid/opiate agonists and antagonists. The review is subdivided into the following specific topics: molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors (2), the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia in animals (3) and humans (4), opioid-sensitive and opioid-insensitive effects of nonopioid analgesics (5), opioid peptide and receptor involvement in tolerance and dependence (6), stress and social status (7), learning and memory (8), eating and drinking (9), drug abuse and alcohol (10), sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (11), mental illness and mood (12), seizures and neurologic disorders (13), electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (14), general activity and locomotion (15), gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (16), cardiovascular responses (17), respiration and thermoregulation (18), and immunological responses (19).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY, 11367, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang Y, Standifer KM. Exacerbated Headache-Related Pain in the Single Prolonged Stress Preclinical Model of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 41:1009-1018. [PMID: 32930941 PMCID: PMC8159770 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00962-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Chronic headache pain is one of the most commonly reported comorbid pain conditions with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients and resistant to effective treatment, yet no combined preclinical model of the two disorders has been reported. Here, we used a modified chronic headache pain model to investigate the contribution of single prolonged stress (SPS) model of PTSD with sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced hyperalgesia. Injection of SNP (2 mg/kg, i.p.) occurred every other day from day 7 to day 15 after initiation of SPS in rats. Paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) to von Frey stimuli and tail flick latencies (TFL) dramatically decreased as early as 7 days after SPS and lasted until at least day 21. Basal PWT and TFL also significantly decreased during the SNP treatment period. The lower nociceptive thresholds recovered in 6 days following the final SNP injection in SNP group, but not in SPS + SNP group. Elevated nociceptin/OFQ (N/OFQ) levels observed in cerebrospinal fluid of SPS rats were even higher in SPS + SNP group. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor mRNA expression increased in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) 21 days after SPS exposure; mRNA increases in the SPS/SNP group was more pronounced than SPS or SNP alone. GFAP protein expression was upregulated in trigeminal ganglia by SPS. Our results indicate that traumatic stress exaggerated chronic SNP-induced nociceptive hypersensitivity, and that N/OFQ and activated satellite glia cells may play an important role in the interaction between both conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA. .,Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Targowska-Duda KM, Ozawa A, Bertels Z, Cippitelli A, Marcus JL, Mielke-Maday HK, Zribi G, Rainey AN, Kieffer BL, Pradhan AA, Toll L. NOP receptor agonist attenuates nitroglycerin-induced migraine-like symptoms in mice. Neuropharmacology 2020; 170:108029. [PMID: 32278976 PMCID: PMC7243257 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Migraine is an extraordinarily prevalent and disabling headache disorder that affects one billion people worldwide. Throbbing pain is one of several migraine symptoms including sensitivity to light (photophobia), sometimes to sounds, smell and touch. The basic mechanisms underlying migraine remain inadequately understood, and current treatments (with triptans being the primary standard of care) are not well tolerated by some patients. NOP (Nociceptin OPioid) receptors, the fourth member of the opioid receptor family, are expressed in the brain and periphery with particularly high expression known to be in trigeminal ganglia (TG). The aim of our study was to further explore the involvement of the NOP receptor system in migraine. To this end, we used immunohistochemistry to examine NOP receptor distribution in TG and trigeminal nucleus caudalus (TNC) in mice, including colocalization with specific cellular markers, and used nitroglycerin (NTG) models of migraine to assess the influence of the selective NOP receptor agonist, Ro 64-6198, on NTG-induced pain (sensitivity of paw and head using von Frey filaments) and photophobia in mice. Our immunohistochemical studies with NOP-eGFP knock-in mice indicate that NOP receptors are on the majority of neurons in the TG and are also very highly expressed in the TNC. In addition, Ro 64-6198 can dose dependently block NTG-induced paw and head allodynia, an effect that is blocked by the NOP antagonist, SB-612111. Moreover, Ro 64-6198, can decrease NTG-induced light sensitivity in mice. These results suggest that NOP receptor agonists should be futher explored as treatment for migraine symptoms. This article is part of the special issue on Neuropeptides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna M Targowska-Duda
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States; Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Zachariah Bertels
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Jason L Marcus
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Hanna K Mielke-Maday
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Gilles Zribi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Amanda N Rainey
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Brigitte L Kieffer
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Dep. of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; INSERM U1114, Strasbourg, France
| | - Amynah A Pradhan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
An Y, Li J, Liu Y, Fan M. Ormosanine improves neuronal functions in spinal cord-injured rats by blocking peroxynitrite/calpain activity. Transl Neurosci 2020; 11:182-191. [PMID: 33335756 PMCID: PMC7711948 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2020-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study was performed to evaluate the effects of ormosanine against spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats and to examine the possible molecular mechanism of action. SCI was induced using an impactor device, and rats were treated with ormosanine 10, 50 or 100 mg/kg, p.o., for 10 days after induction of SCI. The effect of ormosanine on SCI was determined by estimating neurological functions and cytokines and parameters of oxidative stress level were estimated in SCI rats. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting analysis and histopathological study were performed on spinal tissue of SCI rats. The data suggested that treatment with ormosanine reversed the alterations of neurological function in SCI rats. Moreover, the levels of cytokines, oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species production were reduced in the ormosanine treatment group compared to the SCI group. The levels of calpain and neuronal nitric oxide synthase activity were significantly reduced in the spinal tissue of the ormosanine treatment group compared to the SCI group. Moreover, ormosanine treatment reduced the percentage of viable neurons in the spinal tissue of SCI rats. In conclusion, the results of this study showed that ormosanine treatment had a protective effect against neuronal injury in spinal cord-injured rats by regulating the peroxynitrite/calpain activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan An
- Department Of Spine Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China
| | - Jianing Li
- Department Of Spine Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China
| | - Yajun Liu
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital Search for articles by this author in MEDLINE®, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxing Fan
- Department Of Spine Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kiguchi N, Ding H, Ko MC. Therapeutic potentials of NOP and MOP receptor coactivation for the treatment of pain and opioid abuse. J Neurosci Res 2020; 100:191-202. [PMID: 32255240 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Following the identification of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) as an endogenous ligand for the NOP receptor, ample evidence has revealed unique functional profiles of the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system. NOP receptors are expressed in key neural substrates involved in pain and reward modulation. In nonhuman primates (NHPs), NOP receptor activation effectively exerts antinociception and anti-hypersensitivity at the spinal and supraspinal levels. Moreover, NOP receptor activation inhibits dopaminergic transmission and synergistically enhances mu-opioid peptide (MOP) receptor-mediated analgesia. In this article, we have discussed the functional profiles of ligands with dual NOP and MOP receptor agonist activities and highlight their optimal functional efficacy for pain relief and drug abuse treatment. Through coactivation of NOP and MOP receptors, bifunctional NOP/MOP receptor "partial" agonists (e.g., AT-121, BU08028, and BU10038) reveal a wider therapeutic window with fewer side effects. These newly developed ligands potently induce antinociception without MOP receptor agonist-associated side effects such as abuse potential, respiratory depression, itching sensation, and physical dependence. In addition, in both rodent and NHP models, bifunctional NOP/MOP receptor agonists can attenuate reward processing and/or the reinforcing effects of opioids and other abused drugs. While a mixed NOP/opioid receptor "full" agonist cebranopadol is undergoing clinical trials, bifunctional NOP/MOP "partial" agonists exhibit promising therapeutic profiles in translational NHP models for the treatment of pain and opioid abuse. This class of drugs demonstrates the therapeutic advantage of NOP and MOP receptor coactivation, indicating a greater potential for future development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norikazu Kiguchi
- Department of Pharmacology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Huiping Ding
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Mei-Chuan Ko
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.,W.G. Hefner Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salisbury, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dagnino APA, da Silva RBM, Chagastelles PC, Pereira TCB, Venturin GT, Greggio S, Costa da Costa J, Bogo MR, Campos MM. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor modulates painful and fatigue symptoms in a mouse model of fibromyalgia. Pain 2019; 160:1383-1401. [PMID: 30720581 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Generalized pain and fatigue are both hallmarks of fibromyalgia, a syndrome with an indefinite etiology. The treatment options for fibromyalgia are currently limited, probably because of its intricate pathophysiology. Thus, further basic and clinical research on this condition is currently needed. This study investigated the effects of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor (NOPr) ligands and the modulation of the NOP system in the preclinical mouse model of reserpine-induced fibromyalgia. The effects of administration of the natural agonist N/OFQ and the selective NOPr antagonists (UFP-101 and SB-612111) were evaluated in fibromyalgia-related symptoms in reserpine-treated mice. The expression of prepronociceptin/orphanin FQ and NOPr was assessed in central and peripheral sites at different time points after reserpine administration. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ displayed dual effects in the behavioral changes in the reserpine-elicited fibromyalgia model. The peptide NOPr antagonist UFP-101 produced analgesic and antifatigue effects, by preventing alterations in brain activity and skeletal muscle metabolism, secondary to fibromyalgia induction. The nonpeptide NOPr antagonist SB-612111 mirrored the favorable effects of UFP-101 in painful and fatigue alterations induced by reserpine. A time-related up- or downregulation of prepronociceptin/orphanin FQ and NOPr was observed in supraspinal, spinal, and peripheral sites of reserpine-treated mice. Our data shed new lights on the mechanisms underlying the fibromyalgia pathogenesis, supporting a role for N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in this syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Aquistapase Dagnino
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Centro de Pesquisa em Toxicologia e Farmacologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Braccini Madeira da Silva
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Pedro Cesar Chagastelles
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Talita Carneiro Brandão Pereira
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências, Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gianina Teribele Venturin
- Centro de Pesquisa Pré-Clínica, Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul, Brain Institute (BraIns), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Samuel Greggio
- Centro de Pesquisa Pré-Clínica, Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul, Brain Institute (BraIns), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Curso de Graduação em Biomedicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Jaderson Costa da Costa
- Centro de Pesquisa Pré-Clínica, Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul, Brain Institute (BraIns), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maurício Reis Bogo
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências, Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maria Martha Campos
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Centro de Pesquisa em Toxicologia e Farmacologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Odontologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Pain has a useful protective role; through avoidance learning, it helps to decrease the probability of engaging in tissue-damaging, or otherwise dangerous experiences. In our modern society, the experience of acute post-surgical pain and the development of chronic pain states represent an unnecessary negative outcome. This has become an important health issue as more than 30% of the US population reports experiencing "unnecessary" pain at any given time. Opioid therapies are often efficacious treatments for severe and acute pain; however, in addition to their powerful analgesic properties, opioids produce potent reinforcing properties and their inappropriate use has led to the current opioid overdose epidemic in North America. Dissecting the allostatic changes occurring in nociceptors and neuronal pathways in response to pain are the first and most important steps in understanding the physiologic changes underlying the opioid epidemic. Full characterization of these adaptations will provide novel targets for the development of safer pharmacotherapies. In this review, we highlight the current efforts toward safer opioid treatments and describe our current knowledge of the interaction between pain and opioid systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Massaly
- Department of Anesthesiology; Washington University in St. Louis; St. Louis, MO, 63110 ; USA
- Washington University Pain Center; St. Louis, MO, 63110 ; USA
- Washington University in St Louis; School of Medicine; St. Louis, MO, 63110 ; USA
| | - Jose A Morón
- Department of Anesthesiology; Washington University in St. Louis; St. Louis, MO, 63110 ; USA
- Washington University Pain Center; St. Louis, MO, 63110 ; USA
- Washington University in St Louis; School of Medicine; St. Louis, MO, 63110 ; USA
- Department of Neuroscience; Washington University in St. Louis; St. Louis, MO, 63110 ; USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Since the discovery of the NOP receptor and N/OFQ as the endogenous ligand, evidence has appeared demonstrating the involvement of this receptor system in pain. This was not surprising for members of the opioid receptor and peptide families, particularly since both the receptor and N/OFQ are highly expressed in brain regions involved in pain, spinal cord, and dorsal root ganglia. What has been surprising is the complicated picture that has emerged from 25 years of research. The original finding that N/OFQ decreased tail flick and hotplate latency, when administered i.c.v., led to the hypothesis that NOP receptor antagonists could have analgesic activity without abuse liability. However, as data accumulated, it became clear that not only the potency but the activity per se was different when N/OFQ or small molecule NOP agonists were administered in the brain versus the spinal cord and it also depended upon the pain assay used. When administered systemically, NOP receptor agonists are generally ineffective in attenuating heat pain but are antinociceptive in an acute inflammatory pain model. Most antagonists administered systemically have no antinociceptive activity of their own, even though selective peptide NOP antagonists have potent antinociceptive activity when administered i.c.v. Chronic pain models provide different results as well, as small molecule NOP receptor agonists have potent anti-allodynic and anti-hyperalgesic activity after systemic administration. A considerable number of electrophysiological and anatomical experiments, in particular with NOP-eGFP mice, have been conducted in an attempt to explain the complicated profile resulting from NOP receptor modulation, to examine receptor plasticity, and to elucidate mechanisms by which selective NOP agonists, bifunctional NOP/mu agonists, or NOP receptor antagonists modulate acute and chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA.
| | - Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Caputi FF, Romualdi P, Candeletti S. Regulation of the Genes Encoding the ppN/OFQ and NOP Receptor. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2019; 254:141-162. [PMID: 30689088 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Over the years, the ability of N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in modulating several physiological functions, including the release of neurotransmitters, anxiety-like behavior responses, modulation of the reward circuitry, inflammatory signaling, nociception, and motor function, has been examined in several brain regions and at spinal level. This chapter collects information related to the genes encoding the ppN/OFQ and NOP receptor, their regulation, and relative transcriptional control mechanisms. Furthermore, genetic manipulations, polymorphisms, and epigenetic alterations associated with different pathological conditions are discussed. The evidence here collected indicates that the study of ppN/OFQ and NOP receptor gene expression may offer novel opportunities in the field of personalized therapies and highlights this system as a good "druggable target" for different pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Felicia Caputi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrizia Romualdi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Sanzio Candeletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Christoph T, Raffa R, De Vry J, Schröder W. Synergistic interaction between the agonism of cebranopadol at nociceptin/orphanin FQ and classical opioid receptors in the rat spinal nerve ligation model. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2018; 6:e00444. [PMID: 30519474 PMCID: PMC6262002 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cebranopadol (trans-6'-fluoro-4',9'-dihydro-N,N-dimethyl-4-phenyl-spiro[cyclohexane-1,1'(3'H)-pyrano[3,4-b]indol]-4-amine) is a novel analgesic nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide (NOP) and classical opioid receptor (MOP, DOP, and KOP) agonist with highly efficacious and potent activity in a broad range of rodent models of nociceptive, inflammatory, and neuropathic pain as well as limited opioid-type side effects such as respiratory depression. This study was designed to explore contribution and interaction of NOP and classical opioid receptor agonist components to cebranopadol analgesia in the rat spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model. Assessing antihypersensitive activity in SNL rats intraperitoneal (IP) administration of cebranopadol resulted in ED 50 values of 3.3 and 3.58 μg/kg in two independent experiments. Pretreatment (IP) with J-113397 (4.64 mg/kg) a selective antagonist for the NOP receptor or naloxone (1 mg/kg), naltrindole (10 mg/kg), or nor-BNI (10 mg/kg), selective antagonists for MOP, DOP, and KOP receptors, yielded ED 50 values of 14.1, 16.9, 17.3, and 15 μg/kg, respectively. This 4-5 fold rightward shift of the dose-response curves suggested agonistic contribution of all four receptors to the analgesic activity of cebranopadol. Combined pretreatment with a mixture of the antagonists for the three classical opioid receptors resulted in an 18-fold potency shift with an ED 50 of 65.5 μg/kg. The concept of dose equivalence was used to calculate the expected additive effects of the parent compound for NOP and opioid receptor contribution and to compare them with the observed effects, respectively. This analysis revealed a statistically significant difference between the expected additive and the observed effects suggesting intrinsic synergistic analgesic interaction of the NOP and the classical opioid receptor components of cebranopadol. Together with the observation of limited respiratory depression in rats and humans the synergistic interaction of NOP and classical opioid receptor components in analgesia described in the current study may contribute to the favorable therapeutic index of cebranopadol observed in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Raffa
- Temple University School of PharmacyPhiladelphiaPennsylvania
- University of Arizona College of PharmacyTucsonArizona
| | - Jean De Vry
- Grünenthal InnovationGrünenthal GmbHAachenGermany
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ozawa A, Brunori G, Cippitelli A, Toll N, Schoch J, Kieffer BL, Toll L. Analysis of the distribution of spinal NOP receptors in a chronic pain model using NOP-eGFP knock-in mice. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2662-2675. [PMID: 29582417 PMCID: PMC6003644 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide (NOP) receptor system plays a significant role in the regulation of pain. This system functions differently in the spinal cord and brain. The mechanism by which the NOP receptor agonists regulate pain transmission in these regions is not clearly understood. Here, we investigate the peripheral and spinal NOP receptor distribution and antinociceptive effects of intrathecal nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) in chronic neuropathic pain. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We used immunohistochemistry to determine changes in NOP receptor distribution triggered by spinal nerve ligation (SNL) using NOP-eGFP knock-in mice. Antinociceptive effects of intrathecal N/OFQ on SNL-mediated allodynia and heat/cold hyperalgesia were assessed in wild-type mice. KEY RESULTS NOP-eGFP immunoreactivity was decreased by SNL in the spinal laminae I and II outer, regions that mediate noxious heat stimuli. In contrast, immunoreactivity of NOP-eGFP was unchanged in the ventral border of lamina II inner, which is an important region for the development of allodynia. NOP-eGFP expression was also decreased in a large number of primary afferents in the L4 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) of SNL mice. However, SNL mice showed increased sensitivity, compared to sham animals to the effects of i.t administered N/OFQ with respect to mechanical as well as thermal stimuli. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that the spinal NOP receptor system attenuates injury-induced hyperalgesia by direct inhibition of the projection neurons in the spinal cord that send nociceptive signals to the brain and not by inhibiting presynaptic terminals of DRG neurons in the superficial lamina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Ozawa
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular StudiesPort St. LucieFL34987USA
| | - Gloria Brunori
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular StudiesPort St. LucieFL34987USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of MedicineFlorida Atlantic UniversityBoca RatonFL33431USA
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular StudiesPort St. LucieFL34987USA
| | - Nicholas Toll
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular StudiesPort St. LucieFL34987USA
| | - Jennifer Schoch
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular StudiesPort St. LucieFL34987USA
| | - Brigitte L Kieffer
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of MedicineMcGill UniversityMontrealQCH4H 1R3Canada
| | - Lawrence Toll
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular StudiesPort St. LucieFL34987USA
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of MedicineFlorida Atlantic UniversityBoca RatonFL33431USA
| |
Collapse
|