1
|
Latifi-Navid H, Barzegar Behrooz A, Jamehdor S, Davari M, Latifinavid M, Zolfaghari N, Piroozmand S, Taghizadeh S, Bourbour M, Shemshaki G, Latifi-Navid S, Arab SS, Soheili ZS, Ahmadieh H, Sheibani N. Construction of an Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration Diagnostic and Therapeutic Molecular Network Using Multi-Layer Network Analysis, a Fuzzy Logic Model, and Deep Learning Techniques: Are Retinal and Brain Neurodegenerative Disorders Related? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1555. [PMID: 38004422 PMCID: PMC10674956 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111555] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is a leading cause of irreversible visual impairment in the elderly. The current management of nAMD is limited and involves regular intravitreal administration of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF). However, the effectiveness of these treatments is limited by overlapping and compensatory pathways leading to unresponsiveness to anti-VEGF treatments in a significant portion of nAMD patients. Therefore, a system view of pathways involved in pathophysiology of nAMD will have significant clinical value. The aim of this study was to identify proteins, miRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), various metabolites, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with a significant role in the pathogenesis of nAMD. To accomplish this goal, we conducted a multi-layer network analysis, which identified 30 key genes, six miRNAs, and four lncRNAs. We also found three key metabolites that are common with AMD, Alzheimer's disease (AD) and schizophrenia. Moreover, we identified nine key SNPs and their related genes that are common among AMD, AD, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson's disease (PD). Thus, our findings suggest that there exists a connection between nAMD and the aforementioned neurodegenerative disorders. In addition, our study also demonstrates the effectiveness of using artificial intelligence, specifically the LSTM network, a fuzzy logic model, and genetic algorithms, to identify important metabolites in complex metabolic pathways to open new avenues for the design and/or repurposing of drugs for nAMD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Latifi-Navid
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Amir Barzegar Behrooz
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba College of Medicine, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada;
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1416634793, Iran
| | - Saleh Jamehdor
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan 6517838636, Iran;
| | - Maliheh Davari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Masoud Latifinavid
- Department of Mechatronic Engineering, University of Turkish Aeronautical Association, 06790 Ankara, Turkey;
| | - Narges Zolfaghari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Somayeh Piroozmand
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Sepideh Taghizadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Mahsa Bourbour
- Department of Biotechnology, Alzahra University, Tehran 1993893973, Iran;
| | - Golnaz Shemshaki
- Department of Studies in Zoology, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysore 570005, India;
| | - Saeid Latifi-Navid
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil 5619911367, Iran;
| | - Seyed Shahriar Arab
- Biophysics Department, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 1411713116, Iran;
| | - Zahra-Soheila Soheili
- Department of Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran 1497716316, Iran; (H.L.-N.); (M.D.); (N.Z.); (S.P.); (S.T.); (Z.-S.S.)
| | - Hamid Ahmadieh
- Ophthalmic Research Center, Research Institute for Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1666673111, Iran;
| | - Nader Sheibani
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen YH, Zhang TF, Liu YY, Zheng JH, Lin WX, Chen YK, Cai JH, Zou J, Li ZY. Identification of a 5-gene-risk score model for predicting luminal A-invasive lobular breast cancer survival. Genetica 2022; 150:299-316. [PMID: 35536451 DOI: 10.1007/s10709-022-00157-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a devastating malignancy, among which the luminal A (LumA) breast cancer is the most common subtype. In the present study, we used a comprehensive bioinformatics approach in the hope of identifying novel prognostic biomarkers for LumA breast cancer patients. Transcriptomic profiling of 611 LumA breast cancer patients was downloaded from TCGA database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between tumor samples and controls were first identified by differential expression analysis, before being used for the weighted gene co-expression network analysis. The subsequent univariate Cox regression and LASSO algorithm were used to uncover key prognostic genes for constructing multivariate Cox regression model. Patients were stratified into high-risk and low-risk groups according to the risk score, and subjected to multiple downstream analyses including survival analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), inference on immune cell infiltration and analysis of mutation burden. Receiving operator curve analysis was also performed. A total of 7071 DEGs were first identified by edgeR package, pink module was found significantly associated with invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). 105 prognostic genes and 9 predictors were identified, allowing the identification of a 5-key prognostic genes (LRRC77P, CA3, BAMBI, CABP1, ATP8A2) after intersection. These 5 genes, and the resulting Cox model, displayed good prognostic performance. Furthermore, distinct differences existed between two risk-score stratified groups at various levels. The identified 5-gene prognostic model will help deepen the understanding of the molecular and immunological mechanisms that affect the survival of LumA-ILC patients and guide and proper monitoring of these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Huan Chen
- Department of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Tao-Feng Zhang
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi-Yuan Liu
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie-Hua Zheng
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei-Xun Lin
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Yao-Kun Chen
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie-Hui Cai
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Juan Zou
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhi-Yang Li
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Hernia Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, No.69 North Dongxia Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Metabolomics-based comparative study of breast colostrum and mature breast milk. Food Chem 2022; 384:132491. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.132491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
4
|
Nutraceuticals/Drugs Promoting Mitophagy and Mitochondrial Biogenesis May Combat the Mitochondrial Dysfunction Driving Progression of Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091985. [PMID: 35565950 PMCID: PMC9104458 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the crucial retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are characterized by mitochondria that are structurally and functionally defective. Moreover, deficient expression of the mRNA-editing enzyme Dicer is noted specifically in these cells. This Dicer deficit up-regulates expression of Alu RNA, which in turn damages mitochondria—inducing the loss of membrane potential, boosting oxidant generation, and causing mitochondrial DNA to translocate to the cytoplasmic region. The cytoplasmic mtDNA, in conjunction with induced oxidative stress, triggers a non-canonical pathway of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, leading to the production of interleukin-18 that acts in an autocrine manner to induce apoptotic death of RPE cells, thereby driving progression of dry AMD. It is proposed that measures which jointly up-regulate mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis (MB), by replacing damaged mitochondria with “healthy” new ones, may lessen the adverse impact of Alu RNA on RPE cells, enabling the prevention or control of dry AMD. An analysis of the molecular biology underlying mitophagy/MB and inflammasome activation suggests that nutraceuticals or drugs that can activate Sirt1, AMPK, Nrf2, and PPARα may be useful in this regard. These include ferulic acid, melatonin urolithin A and glucosamine (Sirt1), metformin and berberine (AMPK), lipoic acid and broccoli sprout extract (Nrf2), and fibrate drugs and astaxanthin (PPARα). Hence, nutraceutical regimens providing physiologically meaningful doses of several or all of the: ferulic acid, melatonin, glucosamine, berberine, lipoic acid, and astaxanthin, may have potential for control of dry AMD.
Collapse
|
5
|
In Silico Analysis of Ion Channels and Their Correlation with Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition in Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14061444. [PMID: 35326596 PMCID: PMC8946083 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14061444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Breast cancer involves changes in the healthy cells of the breast resulting in rapid and abnormal division of cells that later spread to other parts of the body through the process of metastasis, which involves epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). Ion channels play a significant role in the switch from epithelial to mesenchymal transition through their contributions to cellular motility, cell volume regulation and cell cycle progression. Comprehensive computational analyses were performed to understand the role of ion channels in tumor/metastatic samples of breast cancer and their correlation with EMT. Abstract Uncontrolled growth of breast cells due to altered gene expression is a key feature of breast cancer. Alterations in the expression of ion channels lead to variations in cellular activities, thus contributing to attributes of cancer hallmarks. Changes in the expression levels of ion channels were observed as a consequence of EMT. Additionally, ion channels were reported in the activation of EMT and maintenance of a mesenchymal phenotype. Here, to identify altered ion channels in breast cancer patients, differential gene expression and weighted gene co-expression network analyses were performed using transcriptomic data. Protein–protein interactions network analysis was carried out to determine the ion channels interacting with hub EMT-related genes in breast cancer. Thirty-two ion channels were found interacting with twenty-six hub EMT-related genes. The identified ion channels were further correlated with EMT scores, indicating mesenchymal phenotype. Further, the pathway map was generated to represent a snapshot of deregulated cellular processes by altered ion channels and EMT-related genes. Kaplan–Meier five-year survival analysis and Cox regressions indicated the expression of CACNA1B, ANO6, TRPV3, VDAC1 and VDAC2 to be potentially associated with poor survival. Deregulated ion channels correlate with EMT-related genes and have a crucial role in breast cancer-associated tumorigenesis. Most likely, they are potential candidates for the determination of prognosis in patients with breast cancer.
Collapse
|
6
|
Bierhals CG, Howard A, Hirst BH. Reduction of Rapid Proliferating Tumour Cell Lines by Inhibition of the Specific Glycine Transporter GLYT1. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121770. [PMID: 34944586 PMCID: PMC8698617 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have highlighted the relevance of extracellular glycine and serine in supporting high growth rates of rapidly proliferating tumours. The present study analysed the role of the specific glycine transporter GLYT1 in supplying glycine to cancer cells and maintaining cell proliferation. GLYT1 knockdown in the rapidly proliferating tumour cell lines A549 and HT29 reduced the number of viable cells by approximately 30% and the replication rate presented a decrease of about 50% when compared to cells transfected with control siRNA. In contrast, when compared to control, GLYT1 siRNA had only a minimal effect on cell number of the slowly proliferating tumour cell line A498, reducing the number of viable cells by 7% and no significant difference was observed when analysing the replication rate between GLYT1 knockdown and control group. When utilising a specific GLYT1 inhibitor, ALX-5407, the doubling time of rapidly proliferating cells increased by about 8 h presenting a significant reduction in the number of viable cells after 96 h treatment when compared to untreated cells. Therefore, these results suggest that GLYT1 is required to maintain high proliferation rates in rapidly proliferating cancer cells and encourage further investigation of GLYT1 as a possible target in a novel therapeutic approach.
Collapse
|
7
|
DiNicolantonio JJ, McCarty M. Thrombotic complications of COVID-19 may reflect an upregulation of endothelial tissue factor expression that is contingent on activation of endosomal NADPH oxidase. Open Heart 2020; 7:openhrt-2020-001337. [PMID: 32532805 PMCID: PMC7298678 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2020-001337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The high rate of thrombotic complications associated with COVID-19 seems likely to reflect viral infection of vascular endothelial cells, which express the ACE2 protein that enables SARS-CoV-2 to invade cells. Various proinflammatory stimuli can promote thrombosis by inducing luminal endothelial expression of tissue factor (TF), which interacts with circulating coagulation factor VII to trigger extrinsic coagulation. The signalling mechanism whereby these stimuli evoke TF expression entails activation of NADPH oxidase, upstream from activation of the NF-kappaB transcription factor that drives the induced transcription of the TF gene. When single-stranded RNA viruses are taken up into cellular endosomes, they stimulate endosomal formation and activation of NADPH oxidase complexes via RNA-responsive toll-like receptor 7. It is therefore proposed that SARS-CoV-2 infection of endothelial cells evokes the expression of TF which is contingent on endosomal NADPH oxidase activation. If this hypothesis is correct, hydroxychloroquine, spirulina (more specifically, its chromophore phycocyanobilin) and high-dose glycine may have practical potential for mitigating the elevated thrombotic risk associated with COVID-19.
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang X, Cao L, Ji B, Li L, Qi Z, Ding S. Endurance training but not high-intensity interval training reduces liver carcinogenesis in mice with hepatocellular carcinogen diethylnitrosamine. Exp Gerontol 2020; 133:110853. [PMID: 31987916 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2020.110853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Physical activity may reduce cancer initiation. High-intensity interval training (HIT) has been reported to be superior to moderate continuous endurance training (ET) for maximizing health outcomes in cardiovascular disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, the role of HIT vs. ET in the prevention of liver cancer is poorly understood. This study aimed to determine how HIT vs. ET affects cancer initiation in mice with the hepatocellular carcinogen diethylnitrosamine (DEN). C57BL/6 mice were treated with DEN at 3-12 weeks of age and, from 8 to 26 weeks of age, treated with either of exercise modes on treadmill: HIT (85-90% VO2max with intervals) and ET (65-75% VO2max without intervals). We found that mice treated with ET had lower cancer initiation but higher fat mass compared to control DEN-injected mice. In contrast, HIT could not significantly reduce cancer initiation and tumor volumes. Metabolomic analysis in the liver indicated marked differences in cholesterol, palmitic acid, stearic acid, uracil, hydroxypyridine and maltose between HIT- and ET-treated mice, and demonstrated good and obvious separation between ET and DEN control group. Furthermore, mice treated with ET had lower expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and pro-proliferation genes in liver compared to DEN control group. ET protocol reduced the accumulation of toxic metabolite carbamate, increased the protein level of caspase-1, and reduced JNK phosphorylation in liver. These data indicates that moderate-intensity endurance training may be superior to high-intensity interval training for reducing liver cancer initiation in mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; School of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Xuhui Campus, Shanghai University of Sports, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Lu Cao
- The Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; School of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Benlong Ji
- The Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; School of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Lingxia Li
- The Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; School of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Zhengtang Qi
- The Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; School of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - Shuzhe Ding
- The Key Laboratory of Adolescent Health Assessment and Exercise Intervention (Ministry of Education), East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; School of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Activated glycine receptors may decrease endosomal NADPH oxidase activity by opposing ClC-3-mediated efflux of chloride from endosomes. Med Hypotheses 2019; 123:125-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
10
|
Glycine inhibits angiogenesis in colorectal cancer: role of endothelial cells. Amino Acids 2016; 48:2549-2558. [PMID: 27351202 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-016-2278-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Neo-angiogenesis is important for tumor growth. Glycine is a non-toxic amino acid with suspected anti-angiogenic effects. This study was designed to evaluate anti-angiogenic effects of glycine in colorectal cancer. Glycine was added to cultures of human and rat colorectal cancer cells (CRC), and endothelial cells (HUVEC). Glycine's direct impact was monitored using MTT assays. Angiogenesis in HUVEC was monitored using 3D sprouting and migration assays. VEGF and CRC-conditioned media were used to stimulate angiogenesis. The glycine receptor (GlyR) was detected using Western blotting and inhibited using strychnine. The WAG-Rij/CC-531 model of metastatic CRC was used to evaluate glycine's impact in vivo. Tumor growth and vessel density were monitored in rats fed with or without 5 % glycine for 14 days. VEGF and conditioned media significantly increased proliferation, migration, and capillary formation to up to 267 %. Glycine completely neutralized this effect and strychnine completely blunted glycine's effect. GlyR was detected in HUVEC. Tumor volume, weight, and vessel density decreased by 35 % (p = 0.02), 34 % (p = 0.03), and 55 % (p = 0.04) in glycine-fed animals. Glycine inhibits angiogenic signaling of endothelial cells and tumor growth. Glycine would be a promising additive to standard and targeted cancer therapies.
Collapse
|
11
|
Vieira CP, Oliveira LPD, Guerra FDR, Almeida MDSD, Marcondes MCCG, Pimentel ER. Glycine Improves Biochemical and Biomechanical Properties Following Inflammation of the Achilles Tendon. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2014; 298:538-45. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.23041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Pedrozo Vieira
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology; Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas 13083-863 CP 6109; Campinas SP Brazil
| | - Letícia Prado De Oliveira
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology; Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas 13083-863 CP 6109; Campinas SP Brazil
| | - Flávia Da Ré Guerra
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biological Sciences; Federal University of Alfenas; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Marcos Dos Santos De Almeida
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology; Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas 13083-863 CP 6109; Campinas SP Brazil
| | | | - Edson Rosa Pimentel
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology; Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas 13083-863 CP 6109; Campinas SP Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dunford LJ, Sinclair KD, Kwong WY, Sturrock C, Clifford BL, Giles TC, Gardner DS. Maternal protein-energy malnutrition during early pregnancy in sheep impacts the fetal ornithine cycle to reduce fetal kidney microvascular development. FASEB J 2014; 28:4880-92. [PMID: 25077559 PMCID: PMC4216596 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-255364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
This paper identifies a common nutritional pathway relating maternal through to fetal protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and compromised fetal kidney development. Thirty-one twin-bearing sheep were fed either a control (n=15) or low-protein diet (n=16, 17 vs. 8.7 g crude protein/MJ metabolizable energy) from d 0 to 65 gestation (term, ∼145 d). Effects on the maternal and fetal nutritional environment were characterized by sampling blood and amniotic fluid. Kidney development was characterized by histology, immunohistochemistry, vascular corrosion casts, and molecular biology. PEM had little measureable effect on maternal and fetal macronutrient balance (glucose, total protein, total amino acids, and lactate were unaffected) or on fetal growth. PEM decreased maternal and fetal urea concentration, which blunted fetal ornithine availability and affected fetal hepatic polyamine production. For the first time in a large animal model, we associated these nutritional effects with reduced micro- but not macrovascular development in the fetal kidney. Maternal PEM specifically impacts the fetal ornithine cycle, affecting cellular polyamine metabolism and microvascular development of the fetal kidney, effects that likely underpin programming of kidney development and function by a maternal low protein diet.—Dunford, L. J., Sinclair, K. D., Kwong, W. Y., Sturrock, C., Clifford, B. L., Giles, T. C., Gardner, D. S.. Maternal protein-energy malnutrition during early pregnancy in sheep impacts the fetal ornithine cycle to reduce fetal kidney microvascular development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Tom C Giles
- Advanced Data Analysis Centre, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Glycine inhibits angiogenic signaling in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Amino Acids 2014; 46:969-76. [PMID: 24390398 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-013-1662-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly vascularized tumor with limited susceptibility to chemotherapy. Modern targeted therapies are aimed at specific properties of this neoplasm. Glycine is a simple non-essential amino acid with potential antiangiogenic effects. In this study, the amino acid's effect on angiogenic signaling in an in vitro model of HCC was evaluated. HepG2 and Huh7 cells were treated with glycine-free DMEM supplemented with 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0, 2.0, 5.0 and 10 mM glycine. The direct effects of glycine on the viability of HCC cells were monitored using MTT assay. To detect angiogenic signaling, mRNA and protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) were measured using RT-PCR and Western Blot assays. To determine whether or not glycine receptors (GlyR) played a significant role, the specific antagonist, strychnine, was used as a direct inhibitor. Western Blotting was performed to show the presence of GlyR. While there was no direct pro- or antiproliferative effect of either glycine or strychnine in both cell lines, glycine was shown to significantly decrease VEGF-A expression on mRNA and protein level up to 63 % in both cell lines. This effect was blunted by the presence of strychnine. GlyR was also identified in both cell lines. Glycine decreases GlyR-dependent, VEGF-A-mediated, angiogenic signaling in human HCC and thus might be a promising additive to chemotherapy treatment strategies for highly vascularized tumors.
Collapse
|
14
|
Glycine metabolism in animals and humans: implications for nutrition and health. Amino Acids 2013; 45:463-77. [PMID: 23615880 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-013-1493-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 432] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Glycine is a major amino acid in mammals and other animals. It is synthesized from serine, threonine, choline, and hydroxyproline via inter-organ metabolism involving primarily the liver and kidneys. Under normal feeding conditions, glycine is not adequately synthesized in birds or in other animals, particularly in a diseased state. Glycine degradation occurs through three pathways: the glycine cleavage system (GCS), serine hydroxymethyltransferase, and conversion to glyoxylate by peroxisomal D-amino acid oxidase. Among these pathways, GCS is the major enzyme to initiate glycine degradation to form ammonia and CO2 in animals. In addition, glycine is utilized for the biosynthesis of glutathione, heme, creatine, nucleic acids, and uric acid. Furthermore, glycine is a significant component of bile acids secreted into the lumen of the small intestine that is necessary for the digestion of dietary fat and the absorption of long-chain fatty acids. Glycine plays an important role in metabolic regulation, anti-oxidative reactions, and neurological function. Thus, this nutrient has been used to: (1) prevent tissue injury; (2) enhance anti-oxidative capacity; (3) promote protein synthesis and wound healing; (4) improve immunity; and (5) treat metabolic disorders in obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, ischemia-reperfusion injuries, cancers, and various inflammatory diseases. These multiple beneficial effects of glycine, coupled with its insufficient de novo synthesis, support the notion that it is a conditionally essential and also a functional amino acid for mammals (including pigs and humans).
Collapse
|
15
|
Petrat F, Boengler K, Schulz R, de Groot H. Glycine, a simple physiological compound protecting by yet puzzling mechanism(s) against ischaemia-reperfusion injury: current knowledge. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 165:2059-72. [PMID: 22044190 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01711.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischaemia is amongst the leading causes of death. Despite this importance, there are only a few therapeutic approaches to protect from ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). In experimental studies, the amino acid glycine effectively protected from IRI. In the prevention of IRI by glycine in cells and isolated perfused or cold-stored organs (tissues), direct cytoprotection plays a crucial role, most likely by prevention of the formation of pathological plasma membrane pores. Under in vivo conditions, the mechanism of protection by glycine is less clear, partly due to the physiological presence of the amino acid. Here, inhibition of the inflammatory response in the injured tissue is considered to contribute decisively to the glycine-induced reduction of IRI. However, attenuation of IRI recently achieved in experimental animals by low-dose glycine treatment regimens suggests additional/other (unknown) protective mechanisms. Despite the convincing experimental evidence and the large therapeutic width of glycine, there are only a few clinical trials on the protection from IRI by glycine with ambivalent results. Thus, both the mechanism(s) behind the protection of glycine against IRI in vivo and its true clinical potential remain to be addressed in future experimental studies/clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Petrat
- Institut für Physiologische Chemie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|