1
|
Terrill JR, Bautista APR, Tsioutsias I, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Oxidised Albumin Levels in Plasma and Skeletal Muscle as Biomarkers of Disease Progression and Treatment Efficacy in Dystrophic mdx Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:720. [PMID: 38929159 PMCID: PMC11201235 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060720] [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: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Redox modifications to the plasma protein albumin have the potential to be used as biomarkers of disease progression and treatment efficacy in pathologies associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. One such pathology is Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a fatal childhood disease characterised by severe muscle wasting. We have previously shown in the mdx mouse model of DMD that plasma albumin thiol oxidation is increased; therefore, the first aim of this paper was to establish that albumin thiol oxidation in plasma reflects levels within mdx muscle tissue. We therefore developed a method to measure tissue albumin thiol oxidation. We show that albumin thiol oxidation was increased in both mdx muscle and plasma, with levels correlated with measures of dystropathology. In dystrophic muscle, albumin content was associated with areas of myonecrosis. The second aim was to test the ability of plasma thiol oxidation to track acute changes in dystropathology: we therefore subjected mdx mice to a single treadmill exercise session (known to increase myonecrosis) and took serial blood samples. This acute exercise caused a transient increase in total plasma albumin oxidation and measures of dystropathology. Together, these data support the use of plasma albumin thiol oxidation as a biomarker to track active myonecrosis in DMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R. Terrill
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (J.R.T.); (A.P.R.B.); (I.T.)
| | - Angelo Patrick R. Bautista
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (J.R.T.); (A.P.R.B.); (I.T.)
| | - Irene Tsioutsias
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (J.R.T.); (A.P.R.B.); (I.T.)
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Miranda D. Grounds
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Peter G. Arthur
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; (J.R.T.); (A.P.R.B.); (I.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Terrill JR, Huchet C, Le Guiner C, Lafoux A, Caudal D, Tulangekar A, Bryson-Richardson RJ, Sztal TE, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Muscle Pathology in Dystrophic Rats and Zebrafish Is Unresponsive to Taurine Treatment, Compared to the mdx Mouse Model for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13020232. [PMID: 36837851 PMCID: PMC9963000 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13020232] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation and oxidative stress are strongly implicated in the pathology of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and the sulphur-containing amino acid taurine ameliorates both and decreases dystropathology in the mdx mouse model for DMD. We therefore further tested taurine as a therapy using dystrophic DMDmdx rats and dmd zebrafish models for DMD that have a more severe dystropathology. However, taurine treatment had little effect on the indices of dystropathology in both these models. While we and others have previously observed a deficiency in taurine in mdx mice, in the current study we show that the rat and zebrafish models had increased taurine content compared with wild-type, and taurine treatment did not increase muscle taurine levels. We therefore hypothesised that endogenous levels of taurine are a key determinate in potential taurine treatment efficacy. Because of this, we felt it important to measure taurine levels in DMD patient plasma samples and showed that in non-ambulant patients (but not in younger patients) there was a deficiency of taurine. These data suggest that taurine homeostasis varies greatly between species and may be influenced by age and disease progression. The potential for taurine to be an effective therapy may depend on such variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R. Terrill
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Corinne Huchet
- TaRGeT Lab, Translational Research for Gene Therapy, INSERM, UMR 1089, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, 440200 Nantes, France
| | - Caroline Le Guiner
- TaRGeT Lab, Translational Research for Gene Therapy, INSERM, UMR 1089, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, 440200 Nantes, France
| | - Aude Lafoux
- Therassay Platform, CAPACITES, Nantes Université, 44007 Nantes, France
| | - Dorian Caudal
- Therassay Platform, CAPACITES, Nantes Université, 44007 Nantes, France
| | - Ankita Tulangekar
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | | | - Tamar E. Sztal
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Australia
| | - Miranda D. Grounds
- School of Human Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Peter G. Arthur
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Merckx C, Zschüntzsch J, Meyer S, Raedt R, Verschuere H, Schmidt J, De Paepe B, De Bleecker JL. Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Ectoine in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Comparison with Taurine, a Supplement with Known Beneficial Effects in the mdx Mouse. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179567. [PMID: 36076964 PMCID: PMC9455265 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a debilitating muscle disorder that condemns patients to year-long dependency on glucocorticoids. Chronic glucocorticoid use elicits many unfavourable side-effects without offering satisfying clinical improvement, thus, the search for alternative treatments to alleviate muscle inflammation persists. Taurine, an osmolyte with anti-inflammatory effects, mitigated pathological features in the mdx mouse model for DMD but interfered with murine development. In this study, ectoine is evaluated as an alternative for taurine in vitro in CCL-136 cells and in vivo in the mdx mouse. Pre-treating CCL-136 cells with 0.1 mM taurine and 0.1 mM ectoine prior to exposure with 300 U/mL IFN-γ and 20 ng/mL IL-1β partially attenuated cell death, whilst 100 mM taurine reduced MHC-I protein levels. In vivo, histopathological features of the tibialis anterior in mdx mice were mitigated by ectoine, but not by taurine. Osmolyte treatment significantly reduced mRNA levels of inflammatory disease biomarkers, respectively, CCL2 and SPP1 in ectoine-treated mdx mice, and CCL2, HSPA1A, TNF-α and IL-1β in taurine-treated mdx mice. Functional performance was not improved by osmolyte treatment. Furthermore, ectoine-treated mdx mice exhibited reduced body weight. Our results confirmed beneficial effects of taurine in mdx mice and, for the first time, demonstrated similar and differential effects of ectoine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Merckx
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jana Zschüntzsch
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Meyer
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Robrecht Raedt
- 4BRAIN, Department Head and Skin, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hanne Verschuere
- Unit of Molecular Signaling and Cell Death, Center for Inflammation Research, Flemish Institute for Biotechnology, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jens Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology and Pain Treatment, Immanuel Klinik Rüdersdorf, University Hospital of the Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 15562 Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 15562 Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
| | - Boel De Paepe
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| | - Jan L. De Bleecker
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University and Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The Role of Taurine in Skeletal Muscle Functioning and Its Potential as a Supportive Treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12020193. [PMID: 35208266 PMCID: PMC8879184 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12020193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) is required for ensuring proper muscle functioning. Knockout of the taurine transporter in mice results in low taurine concentrations in the muscle and associates with myofiber necrosis and diminished exercise capacity. Interestingly, regulation of taurine and its transporter is altered in the mdx mouse, a model for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness due to the absence of dystrophin from the muscle membrane, causing destabilization and contraction-induced muscle cell damage. This review explores the physiological role of taurine in skeletal muscle and the consequences of a disturbed balance in DMD. Its potential as a supportive treatment for DMD is also discussed. In addition to genetic correction, that is currently under development as a curative treatment, taurine supplementation has the potential to reduce muscle inflammation and improve muscle strength in patients.
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen Q, Li Z, Pinho RA, Gupta RC, Ugbolue UC, Thirupathi A, Gu Y. The Dose Response of Taurine on Aerobic and Strength Exercises: A Systematic Review. Front Physiol 2021; 12:700352. [PMID: 34497536 PMCID: PMC8419774 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.700352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Taurine is a naturally occurring amino acid involved in various functions, including regulating ion channels, cell volume, and membrane stabilization. However, how this molecule orchestrates such functions is unknown, particularly the dose response in exercised muscles. Therefore, this review aimed to systematically review the dose response of taurine on both aerobic and strength exercise performance. In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, relevant articles were sought on PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using related terms, including taurine, exercise performance, exercise, muscle, physical training, running, strength, endurance exercise, resistance exercise, aerobic exercise, and swimming. Ten articles were retrieved, reviewed, and subjected to systematic analysis. The following parameters were used to assess exercise performance in the selected studies: creatine kinase (CK), lactic acid dehydrogenase, carbohydrate, fat, glycerol, malondialdehyde, enzymatic antioxidants, blood pH, taurine level, and muscular strength. From the selected literature, we observed that taurine supplementation (2 g three times daily) with exercise can decrease DNA damage. Furthermore, 1 g of acute taurine administration before or after exercise can decrease lactate levels. However, acute administration of taurine (6 g) at a high dose before the start of exercise had no effect on reducing lactate level, but increased glycerol levels, suggesting that taurine could be an effective agent for prolonged activities, particularly at higher intensities. However, further studies are warranted to establish the role of taurine in fat metabolism during exercise. Finally, we observed that a low dose of taurine (0.05 g) before performing strength enhancing exercises can decrease muscular fatigue and increase enzymatic antioxidants. Systematic Review Registration:http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, PROSPERO (CRD42021225243).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ricardo A Pinho
- Laboratory of Exercise Biochemistry in Health, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Ramesh C Gupta
- School of Agricultural Sciences and Rural Development (SASRD), Nagaland University, Medziphema, India
| | - Ukadike C Ugbolue
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Blantyre, United Kingdom
| | | | - Yaodong Gu
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Terrill JR, Webb SM, Arthur PG, Hackett MJ. Investigation of the effect of taurine supplementation on muscle taurine content in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy using chemically specific synchrotron imaging. Analyst 2021; 145:7242-7251. [PMID: 32893271 DOI: 10.1039/d0an00642d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal genetic muscle wasting disorder, which currently has no cure. Supplementation with the drug taurine has been shown to offer therapeutic benefit in the mdx model for DMD, however the mechanism by which taurine protects dystrophic muscle is not fully understood. Mdx muscle is deficient in taurine, however it is not known if this deficiency occurs in the extracellular space, in other cells present in the tissue (such as immune cells) or in the myofibre itself. Likewise, the tissue location of taurine enrichment in taurine treated mdx muscle is not known. In this study we applied X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) at the sulfur K-edge in an imaging format to determine taurine distribution in muscle tissue. XANES is the only technique currently capable of imaging taurine directly in muscle tissue, at a spatial resolution approaching myocyte cell size (20-50 μm). Using a multi-modal approach of XANES imaging and histology on the same tissue sections, we show that in mdx muscle, it is the myofibres that are deficient in taurine, and taurine supplementation ameliorates this deficiency. Increasing the taurine content of mdx myofibres was associated with a decrease in myofibre damage (as shown by the percentage of intact myofibres) and inflammation. These data will help drive future studies to better elucidate the molecular mechanisms through which taurine protects dystrophic muscle; they also support the continued investigation of taurine as a therapeutic intervention for DMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Terrill
- School of Molecular Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia AUS 6009, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
The PKA-p38MAPK-NFAT5-Organic Osmolytes Pathway in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: From Essential Player in Osmotic Homeostasis, Inflammation and Skeletal Muscle Regeneration to Therapeutic Target. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040350. [PMID: 33808305 PMCID: PMC8066813 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the absence of dystrophin from the dystrophin-associated protein complex (DAPC) causes muscle membrane instability, which leads to myofiber necrosis, hampered regeneration, and chronic inflammation. The resulting disabled DAPC-associated cellular pathways have been described both at the molecular and the therapeutical level, with the Toll-like receptor nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells pathway (NF-ƘB), Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins, and the transforming growth factor-β pathways receiving the most attention. In this review, we specifically focus on the protein kinase A/ mitogen-activated protein kinase/nuclear factor of activated T-cells 5/organic osmolytes (PKA-p38MAPK-NFAT5-organic osmolytes) pathway. This pathway plays an important role in osmotic homeostasis essential to normal cell physiology via its regulation of the influx/efflux of organic osmolytes. Besides, NFAT5 plays an essential role in cell survival under hyperosmolar conditions, in skeletal muscle regeneration, and in tissue inflammation, closely interacting with the master regulator of inflammation NF-ƘB. We describe the involvement of the PKA-p38MAPK-NFAT5-organic osmolytes pathway in DMD pathophysiology and provide a clear overview of which therapeutic molecules could be of potential benefit to DMD patients. We conclude that modulation of the PKA-p38MAPK-NFAT5-organic osmolytes pathway could be developed as supportive treatment for DMD in conjunction with genetic therapy.
Collapse
|
8
|
Boccanegra B, Verhaart IEC, Cappellari O, Vroom E, De Luca A. Safety issues and harmful pharmacological interactions of nutritional supplements in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: considerations for Standard of Care and emerging virus outbreaks. Pharmacol Res 2020; 158:104917. [PMID: 32485610 PMCID: PMC7261230 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
At the moment, little treatment options are available for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The absence of the dystrophin protein leads to a complex cascade of pathogenic events in myofibres, including chronic inflammation and oxidative stress as well as altered metabolism. The attention towards dietary supplements in DMD is rapidly increasing, with the aim to counteract pathology-related alteration in nutrient intake, the consequences of catabolic distress or to enhance the immunological response of patients as nowadays for the COVID-19 pandemic emergency. By definition, supplements do not exert therapeutic actions, although a great confusion may arise in daily life by the improper distinction between supplements and therapeutic compounds. For most supplements, little research has been done and little evidence is available concerning their effects in DMD as well as their preventing actions against infections. Often these are not prescribed by clinicians and patients/caregivers do not discuss the use with their clinical team. Then, little is known about the real extent of supplement use in DMD patients. It is mistakenly assumed that, since compounds are of natural origin, if a supplement is not effective, it will also do no harm. However, supplements can have serious side effects and also have harmful interactions, in terms of reducing efficacy or leading to toxicity, with other therapies. It is therefore pivotal to shed light on this unclear scenario for the sake of patients. This review discusses the supplements mostly used by DMD patients, focusing on their potential toxicity, due to a variety of mechanisms including pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic interactions and contaminations, as well as on reports of adverse events. This overview underlines the need for caution in uncontrolled use of dietary supplements in fragile populations such as DMD patients. A culture of appropriate use has to be implemented between clinicians and patients' groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brigida Boccanegra
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy and Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Ingrid E C Verhaart
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Duchenne Parent Project, the Netherlands
| | - Ornella Cappellari
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy and Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Elizabeth Vroom
- Duchenne Parent Project, the Netherlands; World Duchenne Organisation (UPPMD), the Netherlands
| | - Annamaria De Luca
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy and Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Salmaninejad A, Jafari Abarghan Y, Bozorg Qomi S, Bayat H, Yousefi M, Azhdari S, Talebi S, Mojarrad M. Common therapeutic advances for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Int J Neurosci 2020; 131:370-389. [DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1740218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arash Salmaninejad
- Halal Research Center of IRI, FDA, Tehran, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Yousef Jafari Abarghan
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saeed Bozorg Qomi
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hadi Bayat
- Medical Nano-Technology & Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Yousefi
- Department of Medical Genetics Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sara Azhdari
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Medicine, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam, Iran
| | - Samaneh Talebi
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Mojarrad
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Scicchitano BM, Sica G. The Beneficial Effects of Taurine to Counteract Sarcopenia. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2019; 19:673-680. [PMID: 27875962 PMCID: PMC6040170 DOI: 10.2174/1389203718666161122113609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Aging is a multifactorial process characterized by several features including low-grade inflammation, increased oxidative stress and reduced regenerative capacity, which ultimately lead to alteration in morpho-functional properties of skeletal muscle, thus promoting sarcopenia. This condition is characterized by a gradual loss of muscle mass due to an unbalance between protein synthesis and degradation, finally conveying in functional decline and disability. The development of specific therapeutic approaches able to block or reverse this condition may represent an invaluable tool for the promotion of a healthy aging among elderly people. It is well established that changes in the quantity and the quality of dietary proteins, as well as the intake of specific amino acids, are able to counteract some of the physiopathological processes related to the progression of the loss of muscle mass and may have beneficial effects in improving the anabolic response of muscle in the elderly. Taurine is a non-essential amino acid expressed in high concentration in several mammalian tissues and particularly in skeletal muscle where it is involved in the modulation of intracellular calcium concentration and ion channel regulation and where it also acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory factor. The aim of this review is to summarize the pleiotropic effects of taurine on specific muscle targets and to discuss its role in regulating signaling pathways involved in the maintenance of muscle homeostasis. We also highlight the potential use of taurine as a therapeutic molecule for the amelioration of skeletal muscle function and performance severely compromised during aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Maria Scicchitano
- Istituto di Istologia ed Embriologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Largo Francesco Vito 1-00168, Roma, Italy
| | - Gigliola Sica
- Istituto di Istologia ed Embriologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, Largo Francesco Vito 1-00168, Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Annese T, Ruggieri S, De Giorgis M, Ribatti D, Tamma R, Nico B. α-Methyl-prednisolone normalizes the PKC mediated brain angiogenesis in dystrophic mdx mice. Brain Res Bull 2019; 147:69-77. [PMID: 30711624 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A fraction of patients affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) shows mental disability as a consequence of neuronal and metabolic alteration. In this study, we evaluated the effect of α-methyl-prednisolone (PDN) on the expression of the angiogenic marker HIF1α, VEGFA and VEGFR-2 (FLK1) in correlation with PKC expression in the brain of mdx mouse, an experimental model of DMD. We demonstrated that HIF1α, VEGFA and FLK1 are overexpressed in the brain of dystrophic mdx mice in parallel with an increase of PKC expression and reduction of the tight junctions Occludin leading to altered angiogenesis. Moreover, we demonstrated that PDN treatment induces a significant reduction in the HIF1α, VEGF, FLK1, and PKC mRNA and proteins levels and restores Occludin expression reducing its phosphorylation pattern. Our results suggest a new mechanism of action of PDN that through PKC suppression normalizes the angiogenesis in dystrophic mdx brains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Annese
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School Bari, University of Bari, Italy.
| | - Simona Ruggieri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School Bari, University of Bari, Italy.
| | - Michela De Giorgis
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School Bari, University of Bari, Italy.
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School Bari, University of Bari, Italy.
| | - Roberto Tamma
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School Bari, University of Bari, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Nico
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Bari Medical School Bari, University of Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mele A, Mantuano P, De Bellis M, Rana F, Sanarica F, Conte E, Morgese MG, Bove M, Rolland JF, Capogrosso RF, Pierno S, Camerino GM, Trabace L, De Luca A. A long-term treatment with taurine prevents cardiac dysfunction in mdx mice. Transl Res 2019; 204:82-99. [PMID: 30347179 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2018.09.004] [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: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Taurine is an amino acid abundantly present in heart and skeletal muscle. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder in which the absence of dystrophin leads to skeletal muscle wasting and heart failure. An altered taurine metabolism has been described in dystrophic animals and short-term taurine administration exerts promising amelioration of early muscular alterations in the mdx mouse model of DMD. To reinforce the therapeutic and nutraceutical taurine potential in DMD, we evaluated the effects of a long-term treatment on cardiac and skeletal muscle function of mdx mice in a later disease stage. Taurine was administered in drinking water (1 g/kg/day) to wt and mdx mice for 6 months, starting at 6 months of age. Ultrasonography evaluation of heart and hind limb was performed, in parallel with in vivo and ex vivo functional tests and biochemical, histological and gene expression analyses. 12-month-old mdx mice showed a significant worsening of left ventricular function parameters (shortening fraction, ejection fraction, stroke volume), which were significantly counteracted by the taurine treatment. In parallel, histologic signs of damage were reduced by taurine along with the expression of proinflammatory myocardial IL-6. Interestingly, no effects were observed on hind limb volume and percentage of vascularization or on in vivo and ex vivo muscle functional parameters, suggesting a tissue-specific action of taurine in relation to the disease phase. A trend toward increase in taurine was found in heart and quadriceps from treated animals, paralleled by a slight decrease in mdx mice plasma. Our study provides evidences that taurine can prevent late heart dysfunction in mdx mice, further corroborating the interest on this amino acid toward clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Mele
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Mantuano
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Michela De Bellis
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Rana
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Sanarica
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Elena Conte
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Morgese
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Maria Bove
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | | | - Sabata Pierno
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Giulia Maria Camerino
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Luigia Trabace
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Annamaria De Luca
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari "A. Moro", Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wen C, Li F, Zhang L, Duan Y, Guo Q, Wang W, He S, Li J, Yin Y. Taurine is Involved in Energy Metabolism in Muscles, Adipose Tissue, and the Liver. Mol Nutr Food Res 2018; 63:e1800536. [DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201800536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyue Wen
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Human HealthHunan international joint laboratory of Animal Intestinal Ecology and HealthCollege of Life ScienceHunan Normal University Changsha Hunan 410081 China
| | - Fengna Li
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic ProcessKey Laboratory of Agro‐ecological Processes in Subtropical RegionInstitute of Subtropical AgricultureChinese Academy of SciencesHunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry ProductionScientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South‐CentralMinistry of Agriculture Changsha 410125 China
- Hunan Co‐Innovation Center of Animal Production SafetyCICAPSHunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients Changsha 410128 China
| | - Lingyu Zhang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic ProcessKey Laboratory of Agro‐ecological Processes in Subtropical RegionInstitute of Subtropical AgricultureChinese Academy of SciencesHunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry ProductionScientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South‐CentralMinistry of Agriculture Changsha 410125 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100039 China
| | - Yehui Duan
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic ProcessKey Laboratory of Agro‐ecological Processes in Subtropical RegionInstitute of Subtropical AgricultureChinese Academy of SciencesHunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry ProductionScientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South‐CentralMinistry of Agriculture Changsha 410125 China
| | - Qiuping Guo
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic ProcessKey Laboratory of Agro‐ecological Processes in Subtropical RegionInstitute of Subtropical AgricultureChinese Academy of SciencesHunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry ProductionScientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South‐CentralMinistry of Agriculture Changsha 410125 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100039 China
| | - Wenlong Wang
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Human HealthHunan international joint laboratory of Animal Intestinal Ecology and HealthCollege of Life ScienceHunan Normal University Changsha Hunan 410081 China
| | - Shanping He
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Human HealthHunan international joint laboratory of Animal Intestinal Ecology and HealthCollege of Life ScienceHunan Normal University Changsha Hunan 410081 China
| | - Jianzhong Li
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Human HealthHunan international joint laboratory of Animal Intestinal Ecology and HealthCollege of Life ScienceHunan Normal University Changsha Hunan 410081 China
| | - Yulong Yin
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Physiology and Metabolic ProcessKey Laboratory of Agro‐ecological Processes in Subtropical RegionInstitute of Subtropical AgricultureChinese Academy of SciencesHunan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Healthy Livestock and Poultry ProductionScientific Observing and Experimental Station of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science in South‐CentralMinistry of Agriculture Changsha 410125 China
- Hunan Co‐Innovation Center of Animal Production SafetyCICAPSHunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients Changsha 410128 China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Taurine and Methylprednisolone Administration at Close Proximity to the Onset of Muscle Degeneration Is Ineffective at Attenuating Force Loss in the Hind-Limb of 28 Days Mdx Mice. Sports (Basel) 2018; 6:sports6040109. [PMID: 30274388 PMCID: PMC6315906 DOI: 10.3390/sports6040109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of studies have shown supplementation with the amino acid taurine to have promise in ameliorating dystrophic symptoms in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Here we build on this limited body of work by investigating the efficacy of supplementing mdx mice with taurine postnatally at a time suggestive of when dystrophic symptoms would begin to manifest in humans, and when treatments would likely begin. Mdx mice were given either taurine (mdx tau), the steroid alpha methylprednisolone (PDN), or tau + PDN (mdx tau + PDN). Taurine (2.5% wt/vol) enriched drinking water was given from 14 days and PDN (1 mg/kg daily) from 18 days. Wild-type (WT, C57BL10/ScSn) mice were used as a control to mdx mice to represent healthy tissue. In the mdx mouse, peak damage occurs at 28 days, and in situ assessment of contractile characteristics showed that taurine, PDN, and the combined taurine + PDN treatment was ineffective at attenuating the force loss experienced by mdx mice. Given the benefits of taurine as well as methylprednisolone reported previously, when supplemented at close proximity to the onset of severity muscle degeneration these benefits are no longer apparent.
Collapse
|
15
|
Ramalho TC, de Castro AA, Tavares TS, Silva MC, Silva DR, Cesar PH, Santos LA, da Cunha EFF, Nepovimova E, Kuca K. Insights into the pharmaceuticals and mechanisms of neurological orphan diseases: Current Status and future expectations. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 169:135-157. [PMID: 29981392 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Several rare or orphan diseases have been characterized that singly affect low numbers of people, but cumulatively reach ∼6%-10% of the population in Europe and in the United States. Human genetics has shown to be broadly effective when evaluating subjacent genetic defects such as orphan genetic diseases, but on the other hand, a modest progress has been achieved toward comprehending the molecular pathologies and designing new therapies. Chemical genetics, placed at the interface of chemistry and genetics, could be employed to understand the molecular mechanisms of subjacent illnesses and for the discovery of new remediation processes. This review debates current progress in chemical genetics, and how a variety of compounds and reaction mechanisms can be used to study and ultimately treat rare genetic diseases. We focus here on a study involving Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and Familial Amyloid Polyneuropathy (FAP), approaching different treatment methods and the reaction mechanisms of several compounds, trying to elucidate new routes capable of assisting in the treatment profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teodorico C Ramalho
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, 37200-000, Lavras, Brazil; Center for Basic and Applied Research, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Tássia S Tavares
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, 37200-000, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Maria C Silva
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, 37200-000, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Daniela R Silva
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, 37200-000, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Pedro H Cesar
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, 37200-000, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Lucas A Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, 37200-000, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Elaine F F da Cunha
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, 37200-000, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Barker RG, Wyckelsma VL, Xu H, Murphy RM. Mitochondrial content is preserved throughout disease progression in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, regardless of taurine supplementation. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2018; 314:C483-C491. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00046.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a pathological feature of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a debilitating and fatal neuromuscular disorder characterized by progressive muscle wasting and weakness. Mitochondria are a source of cellular ATP involved in Ca2+ regulation and apoptotic signaling. Ameliorating aberrant mitochondrial function has therapeutic potential for reducing DMD disease severity. The dystrophic mdx mouse exhibits peak muscle damage at 21–28 days, which stabilizes after 8 wk. The amino acid taurine is implicated in mitochondrial health and function, with endogenous concentrations low when measured during the cycle of peak muscle damage in mdx mice. Using whole soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle homogenates from 28- and 70-day mdx mice, we found that there was no change in native state mitochondrial complexes using blue native-PAGE. NADH:ubiquinone oxidotreductase subunit-A9 (NDUFA9) protein abundance was lower in soleus muscle of 28- and 70-day mdx mice and EDL muscle of 70-day mdx mice compared with same muscles in WT (C57/BL10ScSn) animals. There were age-dependent increases in both NDUFA9 protein abundance and citrate synthase activity in soleus muscles of mdx and wild-type mice. There was no change in abundances of mitochondrial dynamics proteins mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) and mitochondrial dynamics protein 49 (MiD49). Taurine administration essentially did not affect any measurements of mitochondria. Collectively, these findings suggest mitochondrial content and dynamics are not reduced in the mdx mouse regardless of disease severity. We also elucidate that taurine affords no significant benefit to mitochondrial content or dynamics in the mdx mouse at either 28 or 70 days.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert G. Barker
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Victoria L. Wyckelsma
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hongyang Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn M. Murphy
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Terrill JR, Pinniger GJ, Nair KV, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Beneficial effects of high dose taurine treatment in juvenile dystrophic mdx mice are offset by growth restriction. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187317. [PMID: 29095865 PMCID: PMC5667875 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal muscle wasting disease manifested in young boys, for which there is no current cure. We have shown that the amino acid taurine is safe and effective at preventing dystropathology in the mdx mouse model for DMD. This study aimed to establish if treating growing mdx mice with a higher dose of taurine was more effective at improving strength and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Mice were treated with a dose of taurine estimated to be 16 g/kg/day, in drinking water from 1-6 weeks of age, after which in vivo and ex vivo muscle strength was assessed, as were measures of inflammation, oxidative stress and taurine metabolism. While the dose did decrease inflammation and protein oxidation in dystrophic muscles, there was no improvement in muscle strength (in contrast with benefits observed with the lower dose) and growth of the young mice was significantly restricted. We present novel data that a high taurine dose increases the cysteine content of both mdx liver and plasma, a possible result of down regulation of the taurine synthesis pathway in the liver (which functions to dispose of excess cysteine, which is toxic). These data caution that a high dose of taurine can have adverse effects and may be less efficacious than lower taurine doses. Therefore, monitoring of taurine dosage needs to be considered in future pre-clinical trials, in anticipation of using taurine as a clinical therapy for growing DMD boys (and other conditions).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R. Terrill
- School of Molecular Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gavin J. Pinniger
- School of Human Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Keshav V. Nair
- School of Human Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Miranda D. Grounds
- School of Human Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter G. Arthur
- School of Molecular Sciences, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Barker RG, Horvath D, van der Poel C, Murphy RM. Benefits of Prenatal Taurine Supplementation in Preventing the Onset of Acute Damage in the Mdx Mouse. PLOS CURRENTS 2017; 9:ecurrents.md.9a3e357a0154d01050b591601cbd4fdb. [PMID: 29188135 PMCID: PMC5693597 DOI: 10.1371/currents.md.9a3e357a0154d01050b591601cbd4fdb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a debilitating muscle wasting disorder with no cure. Safer supplements and therapies are needed to improve the severity of symptoms, as severe side effects are associated with the only effective treatment, corticosteroids. The amino acid taurine has shown promise in ameliorating dystrophic symptoms in mdx mice, an animal model of DMD, however little work is in 21-28 (d)ay animals, the period of natural peak damage. METHODS This study compares the effect of prenatal taurine supplementation on tibialis anterior (TA) in situ contractile function, histopathological characteristics and the abundance of Ca2+-handling as well as pathologically relevant proteins in non-exercised mdx mice at 28 and 70 d. RESULTS Supplementation elevated TA taurine content by 25% (p<0.05), ameliorated in situ specific force by 60% (p<0.05) and improved histological characteristics in 28 d mdx mice; however no benefit was seen in 70 d mice, where background pathology was initially stable. Age specific effects in SERCA1, calsequestrin 1 (CSQ1), CSQ2, utrophin and myogenin protein abundances were seen between both 28 and 70 d mdx and mdx taurine-supplemented mice. DISCUSSION Considering these findings and that taurine is a relatively cost effective, readily accessible and side effect free dietary supplement, we propose further investigation into taurine supplementation during pregnancy in a protective capacity, reminiscent of folate in the prevention of spinal bifida.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Barker
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deanna Horvath
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chris van der Poel
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Microbiology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn M Murphy
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Van Ry PM, Fontelonga TM, Barraza-Flores P, Sarathy A, Nunes AM, Burkin DJ. ECM-Related Myopathies and Muscular Dystrophies: Pros and Cons of Protein Therapies. Compr Physiol 2017; 7:1519-1536. [PMID: 28915335 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c150033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) myopathies and muscular dystrophies are a group of genetic diseases caused by mutations in genes encoding proteins that provide critical links between muscle cells and the extracellular matrix. These include structural proteins of the ECM, muscle cell receptors, enzymes, and intracellular proteins. Loss of adhesion within the myomatrix results in progressive muscle weakness. For many ECM muscular dystrophies, symptoms can occur any time after birth and often result in reduced life expectancy. There are no cures for the ECM-related muscular dystrophies and treatment options are limited to palliative care. Several therapeutic approaches have been explored to treat muscular dystrophies including gene therapy, gene editing, exon skipping, embryonic, and adult stem cell therapy, targeting genetic modifiers, modulating inflammatory responses, or preventing muscle degeneration. Recently, protein therapies that replace components of the defective myomatrix or enhance muscle and/or extracellular matrix integrity and function have been explored. Preclinical studies for many of these biologics have been promising in animal models of these muscle diseases. This review aims to summarize the ECM muscular dystrophies for which protein therapies are being developed and discuss the exciting potential and possible limitations of this approach for treating this family of devastating genetic muscle diseases. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 7:1519-1536, 2017.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pam M Van Ry
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Tatiana M Fontelonga
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Pamela Barraza-Flores
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Apurva Sarathy
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Andreia M Nunes
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA.,Departamento de Biologia Animal, Centro de Ecologia, Evolucao e Alteracoes Ambientais, Faculdade de Ciencias, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Dean J Burkin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Terrill JR, Duong MN, Turner R, Le Guiner C, Boyatzis A, Kettle AJ, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, and a role for taurine in dystropathology of the Golden Retriever Muscular Dystrophy dog model for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Redox Biol 2016; 9:276-286. [PMID: 27611888 PMCID: PMC5018082 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2016.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal skeletal muscle wasting disease presenting with excessive myofibre necrosis and increased inflammation and oxidative stress. In the mdx mouse model of DMD, homeostasis of the amino acid taurine is altered, and taurine administration drastically decreases muscle necrosis, dystropathology, inflammation and protein thiol oxidation. Since the severe pathology of the Golden Retriever Muscular Dystrophy (GRMD) dog model more closely resembles the human DMD condition, we aimed to assess the generation of oxidants by inflammatory cells and taurine metabolism in this species. In muscles of 8 month GRMD dogs there was an increase in the content of neutrophils and macrophages, and an associated increase in elevated myeloperoxidase, a protein secreted by neutrophils that catalyses production of the highly reactive hypochlorous acid (HOCl). There was also increased chlorination of tyrosines, a marker of HOCl generation, increased thiol oxidation of many proteins and irreversible oxidative protein damage. Taurine, which functions as an antioxidant by trapping HOCl, was reduced in GRMD plasma; however taurine was increased in GRMD muscle tissue, potentially due to increased muscle taurine transport and synthesis. These data indicate a role for HOCl generated by neutrophils in the severe dystropathology of GRMD dogs, which may be exacerbated by decreased availability of taurine in the blood. These novel data support continued research into the precise roles of oxidative stress and taurine in DMD and emphasise the value of the GRMD dogs as a suitable pre-clinical model for testing taurine as a therapeutic intervention for DMD boys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Terrill
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Marisa N Duong
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rufus Turner
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology, the University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Caroline Le Guiner
- Atlantic Gene Therapies, INSERM UMR1089, Nantes, France; Genethon, Evry, France
| | - Amber Boyatzis
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anthony J Kettle
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology, the University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Miranda D Grounds
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter G Arthur
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Horvath DM, Murphy RM, Mollica JP, Hayes A, Goodman CA. The effect of taurine and β-alanine supplementation on taurine transporter protein and fatigue resistance in skeletal muscle from mdx mice. Amino Acids 2016; 48:2635-2645. [PMID: 27444300 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-016-2292-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of taurine and β-alanine supplementation on muscle function and muscle taurine transporter (TauT) protein expression in mdx mice. Wild-type (WT) and mdx mice (5 months) were supplemented with taurine or β-alanine for 4 weeks, after which in vitro contractile properties, fatigue resistance and force recovery, and the expression of the TauT protein and proteins involved in excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling were examined in fast-twitch muscle. There was no difference in basal TauT protein expression or basal taurine content between mdx than WT muscle. Supplementation with taurine and β-alanine increased and reduced taurine content, respectively, in muscle from WT and mdx mice but had no effect of TauT protein. Taurine supplementation reduced body and muscle mass, and enhanced fatigue resistance and force recovery in mdx muscle. β-Alanine supplementation enhanced fatigue resistance in WT and mdx muscle. There was no difference in the basal expression of key E-C coupling proteins [ryanodine receptor 1 (RyR1), dihydropyridine receptor (DHPR), sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase 1 (SERCA1) or calsequestrin 1 (CSQ1)] between WT and mdx mice, and the expression of these proteins was not altered by taurine or β-alanine supplementation. These findings suggest that TauT protein expression is relatively insensitive to changes in muscle taurine content in WT and mdx mice, and that taurine and β-alanine supplementation may be viable therapeutic strategies to improve fatigue resistance of dystrophic skeletal muscle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deanna M Horvath
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia.
| | - Robyn M Murphy
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Janelle P Mollica
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Alan Hayes
- Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.,Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.,Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, Western Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Craig A Goodman
- Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.,Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Terrill JR, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Increased taurine in pre-weaned juvenile mdx mice greatly reduces the acute onset of myofibre necrosis and dystropathology and prevents inflammation. PLOS CURRENTS 2016; 8:ecurrents.md.77be6ec30e8caf19529a00417614a072. [PMID: 27679740 PMCID: PMC5029885 DOI: 10.1371/currents.md.77be6ec30e8caf19529a00417614a072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mdx mouse model for the fatal muscle wasting disease Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) shows a very mild pathology once growth has ceased, with low levels of myofibre necrosis in adults. However, from about 3 weeks of post-natal age, muscles of juvenile mdx mice undergo an acute bout of severe necrosis and inflammation: this subsequently decreases and stabilises to lower adult levels by about 6 weeks of age. Prior to the onset of this severe dystropathology, we have shown that mdx mice are deficient in the amino acid taurine (potentially due to weaning), and we propose that this exacerbates myofibre necrosis and inflammation in juvenile mdx mice. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to increase taurine availability to pre-weaned juvenile mdx mice (from 14 days of age), to evaluate the impact on levels of myofibre necrosis and inflammation (at 22 days) during the acute period of severe dystropathology. RESULTS Untreated 22 day old mdx muscle was not deficient in taurine, with similar levels to normal C57 control muscle. However taurine treatment, which increased the taurine content of young dystrophic muscle (by 40%), greatly reduced myofibre necrosis (by 75%) and prevented significant increases in 3 markers of inflammation. CONCLUSION Taurine was very effective at preventing the acute phase of muscle damage that normally results in myofibre necrosis and inflammation in juvenile mdx mice, supporting continued research into the use of taurine as a therapeutic intervention for protecting growing muscles of young DMD boys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Miranda D Grounds
- School of Anatomy and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Peter G Arthur
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Capogrosso RF, Cozzoli A, Mantuano P, Camerino GM, Massari AM, Sblendorio VT, De Bellis M, Tamma R, Giustino A, Nico B, Montagnani M, De Luca A. Assessment of resveratrol, apocynin and taurine on mechanical-metabolic uncoupling and oxidative stress in a mouse model of duchenne muscular dystrophy: A comparison with the gold standard, α-methyl prednisolone. Pharmacol Res 2016; 106:101-113. [PMID: 26930420 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Antioxidants have a great potential as adjuvant therapeutics in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, although systematic comparisons at pre-clinical level are limited. The present study is a head-to-head assessment, in the exercised mdx mouse model of DMD, of natural compounds, resveratrol and apocynin, and of the amino acid taurine, in comparison with the gold standard α-methyl prednisolone (PDN). The rationale was to target the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) via disease-related pathways that are worsened by mechanical-metabolic impairment such as inflammation and over-activity of NADPH oxidase (NOX) (taurine and apocynin, respectively) or the failing ROS detoxification mechanisms via sirtuin-1 (SIRT1)-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) (resveratrol). Resveratrol (100mg/kg i.p. 5days/week), apocynin (38mg/kg/day per os), taurine (1g/kg/day per os), and PDN (1mg/kg i.p., 5days/week) were administered for 4-5 weeks to mdx mice in parallel with a standard protocol of treadmill exercise and the outcome was evaluated with a multidisciplinary approach in vivo and ex vivo on pathology-related end-points and biomarkers of oxidative stress. Resveratrol≥taurine>apocynin enhanced in vivo mouse force similarly to PDN. All the compounds reduced the production of superoxide anion, assessed by dihydroethidium staining, with apocynin being as effective as PDN, and ameliorated electrophysiological biomarkers of oxidative stress. Resveratrol also significantly reduced plasma levels of creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. Force of isolated muscles was little ameliorated. However, the three compounds improved histopathology of gastrocnemius muscle more than PDN. Taurine>apocynin>PDN significantly decreased activated NF-kB positive myofibers. Thus, compounds targeting NOX-ROS or SIRT1/PGC-1α pathways differently modulate clinically relevant DMD-related endpoints according to their mechanism of action. With the caution needed in translational research, the results show that the parallel assessment can help the identification of best adjuvant therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Francesca Capogrosso
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy; Department of Chemical, Toxicological and Pharmacological Drug Studies, Catholic University "Our Lady of Good Counsel", Tirana, Albania
| | - Anna Cozzoli
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Mantuano
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Giulia Maria Camerino
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Ada Maria Massari
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Valeriana Teresa Sblendorio
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Michela De Bellis
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Tamma
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Arcangela Giustino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" Bari, Italy
| | - Beatrice Nico
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Monica Montagnani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro" Bari, Italy
| | - Annamaria De Luca
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy & Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Terrill JR, Pinniger GJ, Graves JA, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Increasing taurine intake and taurine synthesis improves skeletal muscle function in the mdx mouse model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. J Physiol 2016; 594:3095-110. [PMID: 26659826 DOI: 10.1113/jp271418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal muscle wasting disease associated with increased inflammation, oxidative stress and myofibre necrosis. Cysteine precursor antioxidants such as N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and l-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate (OTC) reduce dystropathology in the mdx mouse model for DMD, and we propose this is via increased synthesis of the amino acid taurine. We compared the capacity of OTC and taurine treatment to increase taurine content of mdx muscle, as well as effects on in vivo and ex vivo muscle function, inflammation and oxidative stress. Both treatments increased taurine in muscles, and improved many aspects of muscle function and reduced inflammation. Taurine treatment also reduced protein thiol oxidation and was overall more effective, as OTC treatment reduced body and muscle weight, suggesting some adverse effects of this drug. These data suggest that increasing dietary taurine is a better candidate for a therapeutic intervention for DMD. ABSTRACT Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal muscle wasting disease for which there is no widely available cure. Whilst the mechanism of loss of muscle function in DMD and the mdx mouse model are not fully understood, disruptions in intracellular calcium homeostasis, inflammation and oxidative stress are implicated. We have shown that protein thiol oxidation is increased in mdx muscle, and that the indirect thiol antioxidant l-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate (OTC), which increases cysteine availability, decreases pathology and increases in vivo strength. We propose that the protective effects of OTC are a consequence of conversion of cysteine to taurine, which has itself been shown to be beneficial to mdx pathology. This study compares the efficacy of taurine with OTC in decreasing dystropathology in mdx mice by measuring in vivo and ex vivo contractile function and measurements of inflammation and protein thiol oxidation. Increasing the taurine content of mdx muscle improved both in vivo and ex vivo muscle strength and function, potentially via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of taurine. OTC treatment increased taurine synthesis in the liver and taurine content of mdx muscle, improved muscle function and decreased inflammation. However, OTC was less effective than taurine treatment, with OTC also decreasing body and EDL muscle weights, suggesting that OTC had some detrimental effects. These data support continued research into the use of taurine as a therapeutic intervention for DMD, and suggest that increasing dietary taurine is the better strategy for increasing taurine content and decreasing severity of dystropathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Terrill
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia.,School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Gavin J Pinniger
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Jamie A Graves
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Miranda D Grounds
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Peter G Arthur
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rybalka E, Timpani CA, Stathis CG, Hayes A, Cooke MB. Metabogenic and Nutriceutical Approaches to Address Energy Dysregulation and Skeletal Muscle Wasting in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Nutrients 2015; 7:9734-67. [PMID: 26703720 PMCID: PMC4690050 DOI: 10.3390/nu7125498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal genetic muscle wasting disease with no current cure. A prominent, yet poorly treated feature of dystrophic muscle is the dysregulation of energy homeostasis which may be associated with intrinsic defects in key energy systems and promote muscle wasting. As such, supplementative nutriceuticals that target and augment the bioenergetical expansion of the metabolic pathways involved in cellular energy production have been widely investigated for their therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of DMD. We describe the metabolic nuances of dystrophin-deficient skeletal muscle and review the potential of various metabogenic and nutriceutical compounds to ameliorate the pathological and clinical progression of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Rybalka
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Institute of Sport, Exercise & Healthy Living, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science, Western Health, Melbourne 3021, Australia.
| | - Cara A Timpani
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Institute of Sport, Exercise & Healthy Living, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
| | - Christos G Stathis
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Institute of Sport, Exercise & Healthy Living, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science, Western Health, Melbourne 3021, Australia.
| | - Alan Hayes
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Institute of Sport, Exercise & Healthy Living, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science, Western Health, Melbourne 3021, Australia.
| | - Matthew B Cooke
- Centre for Chronic Disease, College of Health & Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Institute of Sport, Exercise & Healthy Living, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia.
- Australian Institute of Musculoskeletal Science, Western Health, Melbourne 3021, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Terrill JR, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Taurine deficiency, synthesis and transport in the mdx mouse model for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2015; 66:141-8. [PMID: 26239309 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2015.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The amino acid taurine is essential for the function of skeletal muscle and administration is proposed as a treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Taurine homeostasis is dependent on multiple processes including absorption of taurine from food, endogenous synthesis from cysteine and reabsorption in the kidney. This study investigates the cause of reported taurine deficiency in the dystrophic mdx mouse model of DMD. Levels of metabolites (taurine, cysteine, cysteine sulfinate and hypotaurine) and proteins (taurine transporter [TauT], cysteine deoxygenase and cysteine sulfinate dehydrogenase) were quantified in juvenile control C57 and dystrophic mdx mice aged 18 days, 4 and 6 weeks. In C57 mice, taurine content was much higher in both liver and plasma at 18 days, and both cysteine and cysteine deoxygenase were increased. As taurine levels decreased in maturing C57 mice, there was increased transport (reabsorption) of taurine in the kidney and muscle. In mdx mice, taurine and cysteine levels were much lower in liver and plasma at 18 days, and in muscle cysteine was low at 18 days, whereas taurine was lower at 4: these changes were associated with perturbations in taurine transport in liver, kidney and muscle and altered metabolism in liver and kidney. These data suggest that the maintenance of adequate body taurine relies on sufficient dietary intake of taurine and cysteine availability and metabolism, as well as retention of taurine by the kidney. This research indicates dystrophin deficiency not only perturbs taurine metabolism in the muscle but also affects taurine metabolism in the liver and kidney, and supports targeting cysteine and taurine deficiency as a potential therapy for DMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Terrill
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Miranda D Grounds
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Peter G Arthur
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Taurine is a natural amino acid present as free form in many mammalian tissues and in particular in skeletal muscle. Taurine exerts many physiological functions, including membrane stabilization, osmoregulation and cytoprotective effects, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions as well as modulation of intracellular calcium concentration and ion channel function. In addition taurine may control muscle metabolism and gene expression, through yet unclear mechanisms. This review summarizes the effects of taurine on specific muscle targets and pathways as well as its therapeutic potential to restore skeletal muscle function and performance in various pathological conditions. Evidences support the link between alteration of intracellular taurine level in skeletal muscle and different pathophysiological conditions, such as disuse-induced muscle atrophy, muscular dystrophy and/or senescence, reinforcing the interest towards its exogenous supplementation. In addition, taurine treatment can be beneficial to reduce sarcolemmal hyper-excitability in myotonia-related syndromes. Although further studies are necessary to fill the gaps between animals and humans, the benefit of the amino acid appears to be due to its multiple actions on cellular functions while toxicity seems relatively low. Human clinical trials using taurine in various pathologies such as diabetes, cardiovascular and neurological disorders have been performed and may represent a guide-line for designing specific studies in patients of neuromuscular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria De Luca
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Sabata Pierno
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Diana Conte Camerino
- Sezione di Farmacologia, Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Manning J, O'Malley D. What has the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy contributed to our understanding of this disease? J Muscle Res Cell Motil 2015; 36:155-67. [PMID: 25669899 DOI: 10.1007/s10974-015-9406-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal X-chromosome linked recessive disorder caused by the truncation or deletion of the dystrophin gene. The most widely used animal model of this disease is the dystrophin-deficient mdx mouse which was first discovered 30 years ago. Despite its extensive use in DMD research, no effective treatment has yet been developed for this devastating disease. This review explores what we have learned from this mouse model regarding the pathophysiology of DMD and asks if it has a future in providing a better more thorough understanding of this disease or if it will bring us any closer to improving the outlook for DMD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Manning
- Department of Physiology, University College Cork, 4.23 Western Gateway Building, Cork, Ireland
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Berardi E, Annibali D, Cassano M, Crippa S, Sampaolesi M. Molecular and cell-based therapies for muscle degenerations: a road under construction. Front Physiol 2014; 5:119. [PMID: 24782779 PMCID: PMC3986550 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the advances achieved in understanding the molecular biology of muscle cells in the past decades, there is still need for effective treatments of muscular degeneration caused by muscular dystrophies and for counteracting the muscle wasting caused by cachexia or sarcopenia. The corticosteroid medications currently in use for dystrophic patients merely help to control the inflammatory state and only slightly delay the progression of the disease. Unfortunately, walkers and wheel chairs are the only options for such patients to maintain independence and walking capabilities until the respiratory muscles become weak and the mechanical ventilation is needed. On the other hand, myostatin inhibition, IL-6 antagonism and synthetic ghrelin administration are examples of promising treatments in cachexia animal models. In both dystrophies and cachectic syndrome the muscular degeneration is extremely relevant and the translational therapeutic attempts to find a possible cure are well defined. In particular, molecular-based therapies are common options to be explored in order to exploit beneficial treatments for cachexia, while gene/cell therapies are mostly used in the attempt to induce a substantial improvement of the dystrophic muscular phenotype. This review focuses on the description of the use of molecular administrations and gene/stem cell therapy to treat muscular degenerations. It reviews previous trials using cell delivery protocols in mice and patients starting with the use of donor myoblasts, outlining the likely causes for their poor results and briefly focusing on satellite cell studies that raise new hope. Then it proceeds to describe recently identified stem/progenitor cells, including pluripotent stem cells and in relationship to their ability to home within a dystrophic muscle and to differentiate into skeletal muscle cells. Different known features of various stem cells are compared in this perspective, and the few available examples of their use in animal models of muscular degeneration are reported. Since non coding RNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), are emerging as prominent players in the regulation of stem cell fates we also provides an outline of the role of microRNAs in the control of myogenic commitment. Finally, based on our current knowledge and the rapid advance in stem cell biology, a prediction of clinical translation for cell therapy protocols combined with molecular treatments is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Berardi
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Department of Development and Reproduction, KUL University of Leuven Leuven, Belgium ; Interuniversity Institute of Myology Italy
| | - Daniela Annibali
- Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Proliferation, Vesalius Research Center, Vlaamse Institute voor Biotechnologie Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marco Cassano
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology Italy ; School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stefania Crippa
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology Italy ; Department of Medicine, University of Lausanne Medical School Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Department of Development and Reproduction, KUL University of Leuven Leuven, Belgium ; Interuniversity Institute of Myology Italy ; Division of Human Anatomy, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Terrill JR, Boyatzis A, Grounds MD, Arthur PG. Treatment with the cysteine precursor l-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate (OTC) implicates taurine deficiency in severity of dystropathology in mdx mice. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2013; 45:2097-108. [PMID: 23892094 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2013.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathology of the lethal skeletal muscle disease Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and various antioxidants have been investigated as a potential therapy. Recently, treatment of the mdx mouse model for DMD with the antioxidant and cysteine and glutathione (GSH) precursor n-acetylcysteine (NAC) was shown to decrease protein thiol oxidation and improve muscle pathology and ex vivo muscle strength. This study further investigates the mechanism for the benefits of NAC on dystrophic muscle by administering l-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylate (OTC) which also upregulates intracellular cysteine and GSH, but does not directly function as an antioxidant. We observed that OTC, like NAC, decreases protein thiol oxidation, decreases pathology and increases strength, suggesting that the both NAC and OTC function via increasing cysteine and GSH content of dystrophic muscle. We demonstrate that mdx muscle is not deficient in either cysteine or GSH and that these are not increased by OTC treatment. However, we show that dystrophic muscle of 12 week old mdx mice is deficient in taurine, a by-product of disposal of excess cysteine, a deficiency that is ameliorated by OTC treatment. These data suggest that in dystrophic muscles, apart from the strong association of increased oxidative stress and protein thiol oxidation with dystropathology, another major issue is an insufficiency in taurine that can be corrected by increasing the availability of cysteine. This study provides new insight into the molecular mechanism underlying the benefits of NAC in muscular dystrophy and supports the use of OTC as an alternative drug for potential clinical applications to DMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Terrill
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Effects of prednisolone on the dystrophin-associated proteins in the blood-brain barrier and skeletal muscle of dystrophic mdx mice. J Transl Med 2013; 93:592-610. [PMID: 23528847 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2013.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The mdx mouse, the most widely used animal model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), develops a seriously impaired blood-brain barrier (BBB). As glucocorticoids are used clinically to delay the progression of DMD, we evaluated the effects of chronic treatment with α-methyl-prednisolone (PDN) on the expression of structural proteins and markers in the brain and skeletal muscle of the mdx mouse. We analyzed the immunocytochemical and biochemical expression of four BBB markers, including endothelial ZO-1 and occludin, desmin in pericytes, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in glial cells, and the expression of the short dystrophin isoform Dp 71, the dystrophin-associated proteins (DAPs), and aquaporin-4 (AQP4) and α-β dystroglycan (DG) in the brain. We evaluated the BBB integrity of mdx and PDN-treated mdx mice by means of intravascular injection of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The expression of DAPs was also assessed in gastrocnemius muscles and correlated with utrophin expression, and laminin content was measured in the muscle and brain. PDN treatment induced a significant increase in the mRNA and protein content of the BBB markers; a reduction in the phosphorylation of occludin in the brain and of AQP4/β DG in both tissues; an increase of Dp71 protein content; and an increase of both mRNA and protein levels of the AQP4/α-β DG complex. The latter was associated with enhanced laminin and utrophin in the muscle. The HRP assay demonstrated functional restoration of the BBB in the PDN-treated mdx mice. Specifically, mdx mice showed extensive perivascular labeling due to escape of the marker, while HRP was exclusively intravascular in the PDN-treated mice and the controls. These data illustrate for the first time that PDN reverses the BBB alterations in the mdx mouse and re-establishes the proper expression and phosphorylation of β-DG in both the BBB and skeletal muscle. Further, PDN partially protects against muscle damage. The reduction in AQP4 and occludin phosphorylation, coupled with their anchoring to glial and endothelial membranes in PDN-treated mice, suggests that the drug may target the glial and endothelial cells. Our results suggest a novel mechanism for PDN action on cerebral and muscular function, restoring the link between DAPs and the extracellular matrix, most likely through protein kinase inactivation.
Collapse
|
32
|
GLPG0492, a novel selective androgen receptor modulator, improves muscle performance in the exercised-mdx mouse model of muscular dystrophy. Pharmacol Res 2013; 72:9-24. [PMID: 23523664 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2013.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2012] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic drugs may counteract muscle wasting and dysfunction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD); however, steroids have unwanted side effects. We focused on GLPG0492, a new non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator that is currently under development for musculo-skeletal diseases such as sarcopenia and cachexia. GLPG0492 was tested in the exercised mdx mouse model of DMD in a 4-week trial at a single high dose (30 mg/kg, 6 day/week s.c.), and the results were compared with those from the administration of α-methylprednisolone (PDN; 1 mg/kg, i.p.) and nandrolone (NAND, 5 mg/kg, s.c.). This assessment was followed by a 12-week dose-dependence study (0.3-30 mg/kg s.c.). The outcomes were evaluated in vivo and ex vivo on functional, histological and biochemical parameters. Similar to PDN and NAND, GLPG0492 significantly increased mouse strength. In acute exhaustion tests, a surrogate of the 6-min walking test used in DMD patients, GLPG0492 preserved running performance, whereas vehicle- or comparator-treated animals showed a significant increase in fatigue (30-50%). Ex vivo, all drugs resulted in a modest but significant increase of diaphragm force. In parallel, a decrease in the non-muscle area and markers of fibrosis was observed in GLPG0492- and NAND-treated mice. The drugs exerted minor effects on limb muscles; however, electrophysiological biomarkers were ameliorated in extensor digitorum longus muscle. The longer dose-dependence study confirmed the effect on mdx mouse strength and resistance to fatigue and demonstrated the efficacy of lower drug doses on in vivo and ex vivo functional parameters. These results support the interest of further studies of GLPG0492 as a potential treatment for DMD.
Collapse
|
33
|
Radley-Crabb HG, Fiorotto ML, Grounds MD. The different impact of a high fat diet on dystrophic mdx and control C57Bl/10 mice. PLOS CURRENTS 2011; 3:RRN1276. [PMID: 22094293 PMCID: PMC3217191 DOI: 10.1371/currents.rrn1276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The absence of functional dystrophin protein in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and dystrophic mdx mice leads to fragile myofibre membranes and cycles of myofibre necrosis and regeneration. It is proposed that both DMD patients and mdx mice have an altered metabolism and impaired energy status and that nutritional supplementation may reduce the severity of dystropathology. This research compares the in vivo responses of dystrophic mdx and normal control C57Bl/10 mice to a high protein (50%) or a high fat (16%) diet. Consumption of a high protein diet had minimal effects on the body composition or muscle morphology in both strains of mice. In contrast, differences between the strains were seen in response to the high fat diet; this response also varied between mdx mice aged <24 weeks, and mdx mice aged 24 - 40 weeks. C57Bl/10 mice demonstrated many negative side effects after consuming the high fat diet, including weight gain, increased body fat, and elevated inflammatory cytokines. In contrast, after consuming the high fat diet for 16 weeks the mdx mice (< 24 weeks) remained lean with minimal fat deposition and were resistant to changes in body composition. These results support the proposal that energy metabolism in dystrophic mdx mice is altered compared to normal C57Bl/10 mice and this enables the mdx mice to better metabolise the high fat diet and avoid fat deposition. However, older mdx mice (24 - 40-week-old), with increased energy intake, exhibited some mild adverse effects of a high fat diet but to a far lesser extent than age-matched C57Bl/10 mice. Benefits of the high fat diet on dystrophic muscles of young mice were demonstrated by the significantly increased running ability (km) of voluntarily exercised mdx mice and significantly reduced myofibre necrosis in 24-week-old sedentary mdx mice. These novel data clearly identify an 'altered' response to a high fat diet in dystrophic mdx compared to normal C57Bl/10 mice. Our data indicate that the high fat diet may better meet the energy needs of mdx mice to reduce muscle damage and improve muscle function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G Radley-Crabb
- School of Anatomy and Human Biology, the University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia and USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Current world literature. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2011; 16:650-60. [PMID: 22068023 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0b013e32834dd969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
35
|
Pierno S, Liantonio A, Camerino GM, De Bellis M, Cannone M, Gramegna G, Scaramuzzi A, Simonetti S, Nicchia GP, Basco D, Svelto M, Desaphy JF, Camerino DC. Potential benefits of taurine in the prevention of skeletal muscle impairment induced by disuse in the hindlimb-unloaded rat. Amino Acids 2011; 43:431-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-011-1099-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
|
36
|
Current world literature. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2011; 23:620-5. [PMID: 21960037 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0b013e32834ccef6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
37
|
Current world literature. Curr Opin Neurol 2011; 24:511-6. [PMID: 21900773 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0b013e32834be5c1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
38
|
Cozzoli A, Nico B, Sblendorio VT, Capogrosso RF, Dinardo MM, Longo V, Gagliardi S, Montagnani M, De Luca A. Enalapril treatment discloses an early role of angiotensin II in inflammation- and oxidative stress-related muscle damage in dystrophic mdx mice. Pharmacol Res 2011; 64:482-92. [PMID: 21689754 PMCID: PMC3184479 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2011.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2011] [Revised: 06/02/2011] [Accepted: 06/02/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzymes (ACE) are clinically used to control cardiomyopathy in patients of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Various evidences suggest potential usefulness of long-term treatment with ACE inhibitors to reduce advanced fibrosis of dystrophic muscle in the mdx mouse model. However, angiotensin II is known to exert pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative actions that might contribute to early events of dystrophic muscle degeneration. The present study has been aimed at evaluating the effects of an early treatment with enalapril on the pathology signs of exercised mdx mouse model. The effects of 1 and 5 mg/kg enalapril i.p. for 4-8 weeks have been compared with those of 1 mg/kg α-methyl-prednisolone (PDN), as positive control. Enalapril caused a dose-dependent increase in fore limb strength, the highest dose leading to a recovery score similar to that observed with PDN. A dose-dependent reduction of superoxide anion production was observed by dihydroethidium staining in tibialis anterior muscle of enalapril-treated mice, approaching the effect observed with PND. In parallel, a significant reduction of the activated form of the pro-inflammatory Nuclear Factor-kB has been observed in gastrocnemious muscle. Histologically, 5 mg/kg enalapril reduced the area of muscle necrosis in both gastrocnemious muscle and diaphragm, without significant effect on non-muscle area. In parallel no significant changes have been observed in both muscle TGF-β1 and myonuclei positive to phosphorylated Smad2/3. Myofiber functional indices were also monitored by microelectrodes recordings. A dose-dependent recovery of macroscopic chloride conductance has been observed upon enalapril treatment in EDL muscle, with minor effects being exerted in diaphragm. However a modest effect, if any, was found on mechanical threshold, a functional index of calcium homeostasis. No recovery was observed in creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. Finally the results suggest the ability of enalapril to blunt angiotensin-II dependent activation of pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant pathways which may be earlier events with respect to the pro-fibrotic ones, and may in part account for both functional impairment and muscle necrosis. The PDN-like profile may corroborate the combined use of the two classes of drugs in DMD patients so to potentiate the beneficial effects at skeletal muscle level, while reducing both spontaneous and PDN-aggravated cardiomyopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Cozzoli
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaco-biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Bari, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wilton SD, Fletcher S. Novel compounds for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy: emerging therapeutic agents. APPLICATION OF CLINICAL GENETICS 2011; 4:29-44. [PMID: 23776365 PMCID: PMC3681176 DOI: 10.2147/tacg.s8762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The identification of dystrophin and the causative role of mutations in this gene in Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies (D/BMD) was expected to lead to timely development of effective therapies. Despite over 20 years of research, corticosteroids remain the only available pharmacological treatment for DMD, although significant benefits and extended life have resulted from advances in the clinical care and management of DMD individuals. Effective treatment of DMD will require dystrophin restitution in skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscles and nonmuscle tissues; however, modulation of muscle loss and regeneration has the potential to play an important role in altering the natural history of DMD, particularly in combination with other treatments. Emerging biological, molecular, and small molecule therapeutics are showing promise in ameliorating this devastating disease, and it is anticipated that regulatory environments will need to display some flexibility in order to accommodate the new treatment paradigms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steve D Wilton
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Pre-clinical study of 21 approved drugs in the mdx mouse. Neuromuscul Disord 2011; 21:313-27. [PMID: 21392993 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2011.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2010] [Revised: 01/24/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disease caused by the absence of functional dystrophin, remains without adequate treatment. Although great hopes are attached to gene and cell therapies, identification of active small molecules remains a valid option for new treatments. We have studied the effect of 20 approved pharmaceutical compounds on the muscles of dystrophin-deficient mdx5Cv mice. These compounds were selected as the result of a prior screen of 800 approved molecules on a dystrophin mutant of the invertebrate animal model Cænorhabditis elegans. Drugs were administered to the mice through maternal feeding since 2weeks of life and mixed in their food after the 3rd week of life. The effects of the drugs on mice were evaluated both at 6weeks and 16weeks. Each drug was tested at two concentrations. Prednisone was added to the molecule list as a positive control. To investigate treatment efficiency, more than 30 histological, biochemical and functional parameters were recorded. This extensive study reveals that tricyclics (Imipramine and Amitriptyline) are beneficial to the fast muscles of mdx mice. It also highlights a great variability of responses according to time, muscles and assays.
Collapse
|