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Takebayashi M, Mori S, Ito R, Takayama K, Ojima H, Takeuchi M, Takahashi H, Yamamoto N, Egawa R, Kimura Y, Ihara M, Sasaki K, Sattelle DB, Matsuda K. Impact of a worker bee thoracic ganglion RIC-3 variant on the actions of acetylcholine and neonicotinoids on nicotinic receptors in Apis mellifera. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 39167025 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
A transmembrane thioredoxin (TMX3) enables the functional expression of insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in Xenopus laevis oocytes, while co-factors RIC-3 and UNC-50 regulate the receptor expression level. RIC-3 (resistant to inhibitors of cholinesterase 3) has been shown to diversify by its differential mRNA splicing patterns. How such diversity influences neonicotinoid sensitivity of nAChRs of beneficial insect species remains poorly understood. We have identified a RIC-3 variant expressed most abundantly in the thoracic ganglia of honeybee (Apis mellifera) workers and investigated its effects on the functional expression and pharmacology of Amα1/Amα8/Amβ1 and Amα1/Amα2/Amα8/Amβ1 nAChRs expressed in X. laevis oocytes. The AmRIC-3 enhanced the response amplitude to the acetylcholine (ACh) of these A. mellifera nAChRs when its cRNA was injected into oocytes at low concentrations but suppressed the ACh response amplitude at high concentrations. Co-expression of the AmRIC-3 had a minimal impact on the affinity of ACh, but changed the efficacy of imidacloprid and clothianidin, suggesting that the presence and the level of RIC-3 expression can affect the nAChR responses to ACh and neonicotinoids, depending on nAChR subunit composition in honeybees. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayuka Takebayashi
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Sumito Mori
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Ryo Ito
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Koichi Takayama
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hisanori Ojima
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Miyu Takeuchi
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Hiyori Takahashi
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Niina Yamamoto
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Runa Egawa
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Yuki Kimura
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Makoto Ihara
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Ken Sasaki
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Tamagawa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - David B Sattelle
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kazuhiko Matsuda
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
- Agricultural Technology and Innovation Research Institute, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
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Caurio AC, Boldori JR, Gonçalves LM, Rodrigues CC, Rodrigues NR, Somacal S, Emanuelli T, Roehrs R, Denardin CC, Denardin ELG. Protective effect of Bougainvillea glabra Choisy bract in toxicity induced by Paraquat in Drosophila melanogaster. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 279:109873. [PMID: 38423200 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Paraquat (PQ) is a herbicide widely used in agriculture to control weeds. The damage caused to health through intoxication requires studies to combating its damage to health. Bougainvillea glabra Choisy is a plant native to South America and its bracts contain a variety of compounds, including betalains and phenolic compounds, which have been underexplored about their potential applications and benefits for biological studies to neutralize toxicity. In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant and protective potential of the B. glabra bracts (BBGCE) hydroalcoholic extract against Paraquat-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster. BBGCE demonstrated high antioxidant capacity in vitro through the assays of ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), free radical ABTS and quantification of phenolic compounds, confirmed through identifying the main compounds. Wild males of D. melanogaster were exposed to Paraquat (1.75 mM) and B. glabra Choisy (1, 10, 50 and 100 μg/mL) in agar medium for 4 days. Flies exposed to Paraquat showed a reduction in survival rate and a significant decrease in climbing capacity and balance test when compared to the control group. Exposure of the flies to Paraquat caused a reduction in acetylcholinesterase activity, an increase in lipid peroxidation and production of reactive species, and a change in the activity of the antioxidant enzymes. Co-exposure with BBGCE was able to block toxicity induced by PQ exposure. Our results demonstrate that bract extract has a protective effect against PQ on the head and body of flies, attenuating behavioral deficit, exerting antioxidant effects and blocking oxidative damage in D. melanogaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Castro Caurio
- Laboratory of Physical Chemical Studies and Natural Products (LEFQPN), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil; Research Group of Biochemistry and Toxicology of Bioactive Compounds (GBToxBio), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Jean Ramos Boldori
- Research Group of Biochemistry and Toxicology of Bioactive Compounds (GBToxBio), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Martha Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Physical Chemical Studies and Natural Products (LEFQPN), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Camille Cadore Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Physical Chemical Studies and Natural Products (LEFQPN), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Nathane Rosa Rodrigues
- Research Group of Biochemistry and Toxicology of Bioactive Compounds (GBToxBio), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Somacal
- Department of Food Technology and Food Science, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Emanuelli
- Department of Food Technology and Food Science, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael Roehrs
- Laboratory of Physical Chemical Studies and Natural Products (LEFQPN), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Casagrande Denardin
- Research Group of Biochemistry and Toxicology of Bioactive Compounds (GBToxBio), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Elton Luis Gasparotto Denardin
- Laboratory of Physical Chemical Studies and Natural Products (LEFQPN), Federal University of Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil.
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Essmann CL, Elmi M, Rekatsinas C, Chrysochoidis N, Shaw M, Pawar V, Srinivasan MA, Vavourakis V. The influence of internal pressure and neuromuscular agents on C. elegans biomechanics: an empirical and multi-compartmental in silico modelling study. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1335788. [PMID: 38558792 PMCID: PMC10978802 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1335788] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The function of a specific tissue and its biomechanics are interdependent, with pathologies or ageing often being intertwined with structural decline. The biomechanics of Caenorhabditis elegans, a model organism widely used in pharmacological and ageing research, has been established as biomarker for healthy ageing. However, the properties of the constituent tissues, and their contribution to the overall mechanical characteristics of the organism, remain relatively unknown. In this study we investigated the biomechanics of healthy C. elegans cuticle, muscle tissue, and pseudocoelom using a combination of indentation experiments and in silico modelling. We performed stiffness measurements using an atomic force microscope. To approximate the nematode's cylindrical body we used a novel three-compartment nonlinear finite element model, enabling us to analyse of how changes in the elasticity of individual compartments affect the bulk stiffness. We then fine-tuned the parameters of the model to match the simulation force-indentation output to the experimental data. To test the finite element model, we modified distinct compartments experimentally. Our in silico results, in agreement with previous studies, suggest that hyperosmotic shock reduces stiffness by decreasing the internal pressure. Unexpectedly, treatment with the neuromuscular agent aldicarb, traditionally associated with muscle contraction, reduced stiffness by decreasing the internal pressure. Furthermore, our finite element model can offer insights into how drugs, mutations, or processes such as ageing target individual tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara L. Essmann
- Department of Bioinformatics and Molecular Genetics, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Muna Elmi
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nikolaos Chrysochoidis
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Michael Shaw
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, United Kingdom
| | - Vijay Pawar
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Vasileios Vavourakis
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Limke A, Poschmann G, Stühler K, Petzsch P, Wachtmeister T, von Mikecz A. Silica Nanoparticles Disclose a Detailed Neurodegeneration Profile throughout the Life Span of a Model Organism. J Xenobiot 2024; 14:135-153. [PMID: 38249105 PMCID: PMC10801581 DOI: 10.3390/jox14010008] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of age-related neurodegenerative diseases is rising globally. However, the temporal sequence of neurodegeneration throughout adult life is poorly understood. To identify the starting points and schedule of neurodegenerative events, serotonergic and dopaminergic neurons were monitored in the model organism C. elegans, which has a life span of 2-3 weeks. Neural morphology was examined from young to old nematodes that were exposed to silica nanoparticles. Young nematodes showed phenotypes such as dendritic beading of serotonergic and dopaminergic neurons that are normally not seen until late life. During aging, neurodegeneration spreads from specifically susceptible ADF and PDE neurons in young C. elegans to other more resilient neurons, such as dopaminergic CEP in middle-aged worms. Investigation of neurodegenerative hallmarks and animal behavior revealed a temporal correlation with the acceleration of neuromuscular defects, such as internal hatch in 2-day-old C. elegans. Transcriptomics and proteomics of young worms exposed to nano silica showed a change in gene expression concerning the gene ontology groups serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling as well as neuropeptide signaling. Consistent with this, reporter strains for nlp-3, nlp-14 and nlp-21 confirmed premature degeneration of the serotonergic neuron HSN and other neurons in young C. elegans. The results identify young nematodes as a vulnerable age group for nano silica-induced neural defects with a significantly reduced health span. Neurodegeneration of specific neurons impairs signaling by classical neurotransmitters as well as neuropeptides and compromises related neuromuscular behaviors in critical phases of life, such as the reproductive phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Limke
- IUF–Leibniz Research Institute of Environmental Medicine GmbH, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gereon Poschmann
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Proteome Research, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kai Stühler
- Molecular Proteomics Laboratory, BMFZ, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Patrick Petzsch
- Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ), Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thorsten Wachtmeister
- Biological and Medical Research Center (BMFZ), Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anna von Mikecz
- IUF–Leibniz Research Institute of Environmental Medicine GmbH, Auf’m Hennekamp 50, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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Barros YVR, de Andrade AO, da Silva LPD, Pedroza LAL, Bezerra IC, Cavalcanti IDL, de Britto Lira Nogueira MC, Mousinho KC, Antoniolli AR, Alves LC, de Lima Filho JL, Moura AV, Rosini Silva ÁA, de Melo Porcari A, Gubert P. Bee Venom Toxic Effect on MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells and Caenorhabditis Elegans. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2024; 24:798-811. [PMID: 38500290 DOI: 10.2174/0118715206291634240312062957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bee venom has therapeutics and pharmacological properties. Further toxicological studies on animal models are necessary due to the severe allergic reactions caused by this product. METHOD Here, Caenorhabditis elegans was used as an in vivo toxicity model, while breast cancer cells were used to evaluate the pharmacological benefits. The bee venom utilized in this research was collected from Apis mellifera species found in Northeast Brazil. The cytotoxicity caused by bee venom was measured by MTT assay on MDA-MB-231 and J774 A.1 cells during 24 - 72 hours of exposure. C. elegans at the L4 larval stage were exposed for three hours to M9 buffer or bee venom. Survival, behavioral parameters, reproduction, DAF-16 transcription factor translocation, the expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and metabolomics were analyzed. Bee venom suppressed the growth of MDA-MB-231 cancer cells and exhibited cytotoxic effects on macrophages. Also, decreased C. elegans survival impacted its behaviors by decreasing C. elegans feeding behavior, movement, and reproduction. RESULTS Bee venom did not increase the expression of SOD-3, but it enhanced DAF-16 translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. C. elegans metabolites differed after bee venom exposure, primarily related to aminoacyl- tRNA biosynthesis, glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, and sphingolipid and purine metabolic pathways. Our findings indicate that exposure to bee venom resulted in harmful effects on the cells and animal models examined. CONCLUSION Thus, due to its potential toxic effect and induction of allergic reactions, using bee venom as a therapeutic approach has been limited. The development of controlled-release drug strategies to improve this natural product's efficacy and safety should be intensified.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Iago Dillion Lima Cavalcanti
- Keizo Asami Institute, iLIKA, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Federal University of Pernambuco, Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Mariane Cajuba de Britto Lira Nogueira
- Keizo Asami Institute, iLIKA, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Academic Center of Vitória, Federal University of Pernambuco, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | | | - Luiz Carlos Alves
- Keizo Asami Institute, iLIKA, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Federal University of Pernambuco, Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Department of Virology and Experimental Therapy, Recife, Brazil.cr
| | - José Luiz de Lima Filho
- Keizo Asami Institute, iLIKA, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Federal University of Pernambuco, Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Pure and Applied Chemistry, Federal University of Western of Bahia, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Varão Moura
- MS4Life Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, Health Sciences Postgraduate Program, São Francisco University, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo 12916-900, Brazil
| | - Álex Aparecido Rosini Silva
- MS4Life Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, Health Sciences Postgraduate Program, São Francisco University, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo 12916-900, Brazil
| | - Andréia de Melo Porcari
- MS4Life Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, Health Sciences Postgraduate Program, São Francisco University, Bragança Paulista, São Paulo 12916-900, Brazil
| | - Priscila Gubert
- Keizo Asami Institute, iLIKA, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Pernambuco, Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
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Zhu X, Xia Y, Wang H, Shi L, Yin H, Gu M, Yan F. PM 2.5 induced neurotoxicity through unbalancing vitamin B12 metabolism by gut microbiota disturbance. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2267186. [PMID: 37842922 PMCID: PMC10580859 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2267186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the atmosphere is easily accompanied by toxic and harmful substances, causing serious harm to human health, including cognitive impairment. Vitamin B12 (VitB12) is an essential micronutrient that is synthesized by bacteria and contributes to neurotransmitter synthesis as a nutrition and signaling molecule. However, the relationship between VitB12 attenuation of cognitive impairment and intestinal microbiota regulation in PM2.5 exposure has not been elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated that PM2.5 caused behavioral defects and neuronal damage in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), along with significant gene expression changes in neurotransmitter receptors and a decrease in VitB12 content, causing behavioral defects and neuronal damage in C. elegans. Methylcobalamin (MeCbl), a VitB12 analog, alleviated PM2.5-induced neurotoxicity in C. elegans. Moreover, using in vivo and in vitro models, we discovered that long-term exposure to PM2.5 led to changes in the structure of the gut microbiota, resulting in an imbalance of the VitB12-associated metabolic pathway followed by cognitive impairment. MeCbl supplementation could increase the diversity of the bacteria, reduce harmful substance contents, and restore the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and neurotransmitters to the level of the control group to some degree. Here, a new target to mitigate the harm caused by PM2.5 was discovered, supplying MeCbl for relieving intestinal and intracellular neurotransmitter disorders. Our results also provide a reference for the use of VitB12 to target the adjustment of the human intestinal microbiota to improve metabolic disorders in people exposed to PM2.5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhu
- Food Safety Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Food Safety, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanting Xia
- Food Safety Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huanhuan Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Laboratory animal center, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Shi
- Weifang Elbe Health Food Co. Ltd, Weifang, China
| | - Hongping Yin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Laboratory animal center, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Meier Gu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
- Laboratory animal center, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fujie Yan
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Zhang L, Liu J, Xu B, Wu D, Wu Y, Li G. β-Carbolines norharman and harman change neurobehavior causing neurological damage in Caenorhabditis elegans. Food Funct 2023; 14:10031-10040. [PMID: 37927231 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo03732k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
β-Carbolines norharman and harman, belonging to the class of heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), are typical hazardous substances produced during the thermal processing of food. Compared to other HAAs, there have been limited reports on the toxicity of β-carbolines. Nevertheless, the current studies are concerned with the neurotoxic effects of norharman and harman at high doses. It is still unknown whether the relatively low dose of β-carbolines in foods induces neurotoxicity and the mechanism of the toxicity. In this study, C. elegans was exposed to a series of gradients of norharman and harman (0, 0.05, 5, and 10 mg L-1). The survival rate and indicators of ethology (locomotor behaviors, foraging behavior, and chemotaxis ability) were assessed. The antioxidant system and the contents of neurotransmitters, as well as the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), were evaluated. Additionally, the RNA-seq screening of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) revealed the potential molecular mechanisms of norharman- and harman-induced toxic effects. Our results indicated that the risk of long-term exposure to norharman and harman at low doses (food-related doses) should be emphasized. Moreover, β-carbolines might induce neurotoxicity by causing oxidative damage, regulating the content of neurotransmitters, and interfering with cytochrome P450 metabolism. This study would provide a toxicological basis for the neurotoxicity of β-carbolines and lay the foundation for the risk assessment of endogenous pollutants in food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Zhang
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China.
| | - Jialu Liu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China.
| | - Bufan Xu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China.
| | - Di Wu
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Yongning Wu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Food Safety Risk Assessment, Food Safety Research Unit (2019RU014) of Chinese Academy of Medical Science, China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Guoliang Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, 710021, China.
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Hernando G, Turani O, Rodriguez Araujo N, Bouzat C. The diverse family of Cys-loop receptors in Caenorhabditis elegans: insights from electrophysiological studies. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:733-750. [PMID: 37681094 PMCID: PMC10480131 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01080-7] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cys-loop receptors integrate a large family of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels that mediate fast ionotropic responses in vertebrates and invertebrates. Their vital role in converting neurotransmitter recognition into an electrical impulse makes these receptors essential for a great variety of physiological processes. In vertebrates, the Cys-loop receptor family includes the cation-selective channels, nicotinic acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 receptors, and the anion-selective channels, GABAA and glycine receptors, whereas in invertebrates, the repertoire is significantly larger. The free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has the largest known Cys-loop receptor family as well as unique receptors that are absent in vertebrates and constitute attractive targets for anthelmintic drugs. Given the large number and variety of Cys-loop receptor subunits and the multiple possible ways of subunit assembly, C. elegans offers a large diversity of receptors although only a limited number of them have been characterized to date. C. elegans has emerged as a powerful model for the study of the nervous system and human diseases as well as a model for antiparasitic drug discovery. This nematode has also shown promise in the pharmaceutical industry search for new therapeutic compounds. C. elegans is therefore a powerful model organism to explore the biology and pharmacology of Cys-loop receptors and their potential as targets for novel therapeutic interventions. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of what is known about the function of C. elegans Cys-loop receptors from an electrophysiological perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermina Hernando
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Ornella Turani
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Noelia Rodriguez Araujo
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Bouzat
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga Km 7, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
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Jacques MT, Soares MV, Farina M, Bornhorst J, Schwerdtle T, Ávila DS. Impaired Physiological Responses and Neurotoxicity Induced by a Chlorpyrifos-Based Formulation in Caenorhabditis elegans are not Solely Dependent on the Active Ingredient. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023:104196. [PMID: 37354962 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The current massive and indiscriminate agrochemicals usage, which is inexorably linked to the toxic consequences to the environment and people, represents a great concern. Our work aimed to compare the toxicity induced by chlorpyrifos in its pure form (CPF) with that of a commercial formulation containing allegedly inert ingredients (CBCF) using Caenorhabditis elegans as in vivo model. After a 48h exposure period, CBCF was 14 times more lethal than CPF; Hatching, brood size, body length and motor-related behavioral parameters were decreased, but these effects were significantly higher in CBCF-exposed worms. Additionally, CBCF induced significant morphological changes in cholinergic neurons, which are associated with the motor-related behavioral parameters. Finally, by analyzing the CBCF, were detected the presence of potentially-toxic metals that were not specified in the label. The presented results highlight the toxicological relevance of components present in the commercial formulations of pesticides, which have been claimed as inert compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio Tavares Jacques
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology in Caenorhabditis elegans, Graduation Program in Biochemistry, Federal University of Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, PO BOX 118, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil; Laboratory of Experimental Neuropathology, Department of Biochemistry, CCB, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Block C, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC, CEP 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Marcell Valandro Soares
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology in Caenorhabditis elegans, Graduation Program in Biochemistry, Federal University of Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, PO BOX 118, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil; Laboratory of Neurotoxicology and Neuroprotection Experimental, Departament of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brasil
| | - Marcelo Farina
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropathology, Department of Biochemistry, CCB, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Block C, Trindade, Florianópolis, SC, CEP 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Julia Bornhorst
- Department of Food Chemistry, Institute of Nutritional Science, University of Potsdam, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany; TraceAge-DFG Research Unit on Interactions of Essential Trace Elements in Healthy and Diseased Elderly (FOR 2558), Berlin-Potsdam-Jena-Wuppertal; Food Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Wuppertal, Gaußstraße 20, 42119 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Tanja Schwerdtle
- Department of Food Chemistry, Institute of Nutritional Science, University of Potsdam, Arthur-Scheunert-Allee 114-116, 14558 Nuthetal, Germany; TraceAge-DFG Research Unit on Interactions of Essential Trace Elements in Healthy and Diseased Elderly (FOR 2558), Berlin-Potsdam-Jena-Wuppertal
| | - Daiana Silva Ávila
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology in Caenorhabditis elegans, Graduation Program in Biochemistry, Federal University of Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, PO BOX 118, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil.
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10
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Pharmacological Profiling of a Brugia malayi Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor as a Putative Antiparasitic Target. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2023; 67:e0118822. [PMID: 36602350 PMCID: PMC9872666 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01188-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The diversification of anthelmintic targets and mechanisms of action will help ensure the sustainable control of nematode infections in response to the growing threat of drug resistance. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are established drug targets in human medicine but remain unexploited as anthelmintic substrates despite their important roles in nematode neuromuscular and physiological processes. Bottlenecks in exploring the druggability of parasitic nematode GPCRs include a limited helminth genetic toolkit and difficulties establishing functional heterologous expression. In an effort to address some of these challenges, we profile the function and pharmacology of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the human parasite Brugia malayi, an etiological agent of human lymphatic filariasis. While acetylcholine-gated ion channels are intensely studied as targets of existing anthelmintics, comparatively little is known about metabotropic receptor contributions to parasite cholinergic signaling. Using multivariate phenotypic assays in microfilariae and adults, we show that nicotinic and muscarinic compounds disparately affect parasite fitness traits. We identify a putative G protein-linked acetylcholine receptor of B. malayi (Bma-GAR-3) that is highly expressed across intramammalian life stages and adapt spatial RNA in situ hybridization to map receptor transcripts to critical parasite tissues. Tissue-specific expression of Bma-gar-3 in Caenorhabditis elegans (body wall muscle, sensory neurons, and pharynx) enabled receptor deorphanization and pharmacological profiling in a nematode physiological context. Finally, we developed an image-based feeding assay as a reporter of pharyngeal activity to facilitate GPCR screening in parasitized strains. We expect that these receptor characterization approaches and improved knowledge of GARs as putative drug targets will further advance the study of GPCR biology across medically important nematodes.
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11
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Benslama O. Bioinsecticidal activity of actinomycete secondary metabolites against the acetylcholinesterase of the legume’s insect pest Acyrthosiphon pisum: a computational study. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2022; 20:158. [DOI: 10.1186/s43141-022-00442-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Acyrthosiphon pisum or pea aphid is an insect of the Aphididae family, which attacks various species of legumes such as beans and peas. This pest causes economically heavy crop losses around the world. The use of conventional chemical insecticides is the only way to control its development. However, the harmful consequences of these chemicals are well known. They pollute various compartments of the environment, thus constituting a major risk for human and environmental health. The search for a more ecological alternative, respectful of the environment is, therefore, a necessity. Actinomycetes represent a source of biologically active secondary metabolites, such as antibiotics and biopesticidal agents. In this study, 150 secondary metabolites of actinomycetes have made the objective of an in silico research by molecular docking, by screening their potential inhibitors against the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) of A. pisum.
Results
The 3D structure of AChE, unavailable in the PDB database, was first modeled using the Modeller program, then the stereochemical quality of the model was validated. The molecular docking performed by the Autodock Vina algorithm allowed the selection of two metabolites giving binding energy equal to or lower than that of the co-crystallized inhibitor tetrahydro-acridine (−10.3Kcal/mol). The top-two metabolites are diazepinomicine (−10.9 Kcal/mol), and hygromycin (−10.3 Kcal/mol). These components have shown numerous interactions with the key residues of the catalytic site of the AChE enzyme, indicating their potential to inhibit its biological activity. The environmental and health safety of these components, as well as their bioavailability, were also studied by the verification of several pharmacokinetic and ADMET criteria. Diazepinomicine has shown excellent results verifying most of the criteria studied. A 50-ns MD simulation was also performed in order to test the stability of the complexes formed.
Conclusions
In addition to its favorable pharmacokinetic properties, the special chemical structure of diazepinomicin allows this molecule to interact intensely with AChE notably through the involvement of its two groups farnesyl diphosphate and dibenzodiazepinone which ensure several hydrogen and hydrophobic interactions, that offers very high stability to the complex AChE diazepinomicin. In conclusion, diazepinomicin can be suggested as a potential bioinsecticidal agent against the pest A. pisum.
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12
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Ren J, Sang Y, Aballay A. Cholinergic receptor-Wnt pathway controls immune activation by sensing intestinal dysfunction. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111575. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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13
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Son S, Choi MK, Lim DS, Shim J, Lee J. A genetic screen for aldicarb resistance of Caenorhabditiselegans dauer larvae uncovers 2 alleles of dach-1, a cytochrome P450 gene. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2022; 12:6747961. [PMID: 36194018 PMCID: PMC9713407 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkac266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Animals exhibit phenotypic plasticity through the interaction of genes with the environment, and little is known about the genetic factors that change synaptic function at different developmental stages. Here, we investigated the genetic determinants of how animal's sensitivity to drugs that alter synaptic activity is regulated at a specific developmental stage using the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. C. elegans enters the stress-resistant dauer larval stage under harsh conditions. Although dauer is known to have reduced permeability and increased resistance to most known exogenous chemicals, we discovered that dauer is hypersensitive to a cholinesterase inhibitor, aldicarb. To investigate genes regulating dauer-specific acetylcholine transduction, we first screened for aldicarb-resistant mutations in dauer and then performed a secondary screen to rule out aldicarb-resistant mutations that also affect adults. We isolated 2 different mutations of a single gene called cyp-34A4 or dach-1 encoding a cytochrome P450. In the nondauer stages, dach-1 is mainly expressed in the intestine, but its expression is robustly increased in the epidermis of dauers. By tissue-specific rescue experiments, we found that dach-1 modulates aldicarb sensitivity in a cell nonautonomous manner. In addition, dach-1 plays pleiotropic functions in dauers by regulating quiescence and surviving heat shock and hyperosmolar stress. Our study reveals novel functions of the cytochrome P450 in synaptic and physiological changes during the developmental plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daisy S Lim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jaegal Shim
- Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Junho Lee
- Corresponding author: Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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14
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An extracellular scaffolding complex confers unusual rectification upon an ionotropic acetylcholine receptor in C. elegans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2113545119. [PMID: 35858330 PMCID: PMC9304021 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2113545119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Biophysical properties of ligand-gated receptors can be profoundly modified by auxiliary subunits or by the lipid microenvironment of the membrane. Hence, it is sometimes challenging to relate the properties of receptors reconstituted in heterologous expression systems to those of their native counterparts. Here we show that the properties of Caenorhabditis elegans levamisole-sensitive acetylcholine receptors (L-AChRs), the ionotropic acetylcholine receptors targeted by the cholinergic anthelmintic levamisole at neuromuscular junctions, can be profoundly modified by their clustering machinery. We uncovered that L-AChRs exhibit a strong outward rectification in vivo, which was not previously described in heterologous systems. This unusual feature for an ionotropic AChR is abolished by disrupting the interaction of the receptors with the extracellular complex required for their synaptic clustering. When recorded at -60 mV, levamisole-induced currents are similar in the wild type and in L-AChR-clustering-defective mutants, while they are halved in these mutants at more depolarized physiological membrane potentials. Consequently, levamisole causes a strong muscle depolarization in the wild type, which leads to complete inactivation of the voltage-gated calcium channels and to an irreversible flaccid paralysis. In mutants defective for L-AChR clustering, the levamisole-induced depolarization is weaker, allowing voltage-gated calcium channels to remain partially active, which eventually leads to adaptation and survival of the worms. This explains why historical screens for C. elegans mutants resistant to levamisole identified the components of the L-AChR clustering machinery, in addition to proteins required for receptor biosynthesis or efficacy. This work further emphasizes the importance of pursuing ligand-gated channel characterization in their native environment.
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15
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Speculation on How RIC-3 and Other Chaperones Facilitate α7 Nicotinic Receptor Folding and Assembly. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27144527. [PMID: 35889400 PMCID: PMC9318448 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27144527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The process of how multimeric transmembrane proteins fold and assemble in the endoplasmic reticulum is not well understood. The alpha7 nicotinic receptor (α7 nAChR) is a good model for multimeric protein assembly since it has at least two independent and specialized chaperones: Resistance to Inhibitors of Cholinesterase 3 (RIC-3) and Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Regulator (NACHO). Recent cryo-EM and NMR data revealed structural features of α7 nAChRs. A ser-ala-pro (SAP) motif precedes a structurally important but unique "latch" helix in α7 nAChRs. A sampling of α7 sequences suggests the SAP motif is conserved from C. elegans to humans, but the latch sequence is only conserved in vertebrates. How RIC-3 and NACHO facilitate receptor subunits folding into their final pentameric configuration is not known. The artificial intelligence program AlphaFold2 recently predicted structures for NACHO and RIC-3. NACHO is highly conserved in sequence and structure across species, but RIC-3 is not. This review ponders how different intrinsically disordered RIC-3 isoforms from C. elegans to humans interact with α7 nAChR subunits despite having little sequence homology across RIC-3 species. Two models from the literature about how RIC-3 assists α7 nAChR assembly are evaluated considering recent structural information about the receptor and its chaperones.
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16
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Chen Y, Wang Y, Qin Q, Zhang Y, Xie L, Xiao J, Cao Y, Su Z, Chen Y. Carnosic acid ameliorated Aβ-mediated (amyloid-β peptide) toxicity, cholinergic dysfunction and mitochondrial defect in Caenorhabditis elegans of Alzheimer's Model. Food Funct 2022; 13:4624-4640. [PMID: 35357374 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo02965g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Amyloid-β peptide (Aβ)-induced cholinergic system and mitochondrial dysfunction are major risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our previous studies found that carnosic acid (CA), an important polyphenol antioxidant, could significantly delay Aβ1-42-mediated acute paralysis. However, many details and underlying mechanisms of CA's neuroprotection against Aβ-induced cholinergic system defects and mitochondrial dysfunction remain unclear. Herein, we deeply investigated the effects and the possible mechanisms of CA-mediated protection against Aβ toxicity in vivo through several AD Caenorhabditis elegans strains. The results showed CA delayed age-related paralysis and Aβ deposition, and significantly protected neurons from Aβ-induced toxicity. CA might downgrade the expression of ace-1 and ace-2 genes, and upregulate cha-1 and unc-17 genes to inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity and relieve Aβ-caused cholinergic system defects. Furthermore, CA might also ameliorate Aβ-induced mitochondrial imbalance and oxidative stress through up-regulating the expression of phb-1, phb-2, eat-3, and drp-1 genes. The enhancements of the cholinergic system and mitochondrial function might be the reasons for the amelioration of Aβ-mediated toxicity and Aβ aggregation mediated by CA. These findings have helped us to understand the CA anti-Aβ activity in C. elegans and the potential mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Yarong Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiao Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Yali Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Lingling Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Yong Cao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Zuanxian Su
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunjiao Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China. .,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
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17
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Kirchweger B, Klein-Junior LC, Pretsch D, Chen Y, Cretton S, Gasper AL, Heyden YV, Christen P, Kirchmair J, Henriques AT, Rollinger JM. Azepine-Indole Alkaloids From Psychotria nemorosa Modulate 5-HT 2A Receptors and Prevent in vivo Protein Toxicity in Transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:826289. [PMID: 35360162 PMCID: PMC8963987 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.826289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Nemorosine A (1) and fargesine (2), the main azepine-indole alkaloids of Psychotria nemorosa, were explored for their pharmacological profile on neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) applying a combined in silico–in vitro–in vivo approach. By using 1 and 2 as queries for similarity-based searches of the ChEMBL database, structurally related compounds were identified to modulate the 5-HT2A receptor; in vitro experiments confirmed an agonistic effect for 1 and 2 (24 and 36% at 10 μM, respectively), which might be linked to cognition-enhancing properties. This and the previously reported target profile of 1 and 2, which also includes BuChE and MAO-A inhibition, prompted the evaluation of these compounds in several Caenorhabditis elegans models linked to 5-HT modulation and proteotoxicity. On C. elegans transgenic strain CL4659, which expresses amyloid beta (Aβ) in muscle cells leading to a phenotypic paralysis, 1 and 2 reduced Aβ proteotoxicity by reducing the percentage of paralyzed worms to 51%. Treatment of the NL5901 strain, in which α-synuclein is yellow fluorescent protein (YFP)-tagged, with 1 and 2 (10 μM) significantly reduced the α-synuclein expression. Both alkaloids were further able to significantly extend the time of metallothionein induction, which is associated with reduced neurodegeneration of aged brain tissue. These results add to the multitarget profiles of 1 and 2 and corroborate their potential in the treatment of NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Kirchweger
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Luiz C Klein-Junior
- School of Health Sciences, Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (UNIVALI), Itajaí, Brazil.,Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Quality Control of Phytomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Dagmar Pretsch
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ya Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sylvian Cretton
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - André L Gasper
- Herbarium Dr. Roberto Miguel Klein, Department of Natural Sciences, Universidade Regional de Blumenau (FURB), Blumenau, Brazil
| | - Yvan Vander Heyden
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Applied Chemometrics and Molecular Modeling, Center for Pharmaceutical Research (CePhaR), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Christen
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Kirchmair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Amélia T Henriques
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Quality Control of Phytomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Judith M Rollinger
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmacognosy, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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18
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Izquierdo PG, Calahorro F, Thisainathan T, Atkins JH, Haszczyn J, Lewis CJ, Tattersall JEH, Green AC, Holden-Dye L, O'Connor V. Cholinergic signaling at the body wall neuromuscular junction distally inhibits feeding behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans. J Biol Chem 2021; 298:101466. [PMID: 34864060 PMCID: PMC8801469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Complex biological functions within organisms are frequently orchestrated by systemic communication between tissues. In the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the pharyngeal and body wall neuromuscular junctions are two discrete structures that control feeding and locomotion, respectively. Separate, the well-defined neuromuscular circuits control these distinct tissues. Nonetheless, the emergent behaviors, feeding and locomotion, are coordinated to guarantee the efficiency of food intake. Here, we show that pharmacological hyperactivation of cholinergic transmission at the body wall muscle reduces the rate of pumping behavior. This was evidenced by a systematic screening of the effect of the cholinesterase inhibitor aldicarb on the rate of pharyngeal pumping on food in mutant worms. The screening revealed that the key determinants of the inhibitory effect of aldicarb on pharyngeal pumping are located at the body wall neuromuscular junction. In fact, the selective stimulation of the body wall muscle receptors with the agonist levamisole inhibited pumping in a lev-1-dependent fashion. Interestingly, this response was independent of unc-38, an alpha subunit of the nicotinic receptor classically expressed with lev-1 at the body wall muscle. This implies an uncharacterized lev-1-containing receptor underpins this effect. Overall, our results reveal that body wall cholinergic transmission not only controls locomotion but simultaneously inhibits feeding behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia G Izquierdo
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.
| | - Fernando Calahorro
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Thibana Thisainathan
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - James H Atkins
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Johanna Haszczyn
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Christian J Lewis
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - John E H Tattersall
- Dstl, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
| | - A Christopher Green
- Dstl, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
| | - Lindy Holden-Dye
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Vincent O'Connor
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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19
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Anglister L, Silman I, Soreq H. Preface: Cholinergic mechanisms: This is the Preface for the special issue "Cholinergic Mechanisms". J Neurochem 2021; 158:1212-1216. [PMID: 34458988 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This special issue of the Journal of Neurochemistry, entitled "Cholinergic Mechanisms," presents 15 reviews and two original papers, which have been selected to cover the broad spectrum of topics and disciplines presented at the XVIth International Symposium on Cholinergic Mechanisms (ISCM-XVI), ranging from the molecular and the cellular to the clinical and the cognitive mechanisms of cholinergic transmission. The authors discuss recent developments in the field, for instance, the association of cholinergic transmission with a number of important neurological and neuromuscular diseases in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Anglister
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, IMRIC, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Israel Silman
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Hermona Soreq
- The Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences and the Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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20
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Blazie SM, Takayanagi-Kiya S, McCulloch KA, Jin Y. Eukaryotic initiation factor EIF-3.G augments mRNA translation efficiency to regulate neuronal activity. eLife 2021; 10:68336. [PMID: 34323215 PMCID: PMC8354637 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The translation initiation complex eIF3 imparts specialized functions to regulate protein expression. However, understanding of eIF3 activities in neurons remains limited despite widespread dysregulation of eIF3 subunits in neurological disorders. Here, we report a selective role of the C. elegans RNA-binding subunit EIF-3.G in shaping the neuronal protein landscape. We identify a missense mutation in the conserved Zinc-Finger (ZF) of EIF-3.G that acts in a gain-of-function manner to dampen neuronal hyperexcitation. Using neuron-type-specific seCLIP, we systematically mapped EIF-3.G-mRNA interactions and identified EIF-3.G occupancy on GC-rich 5′UTRs of a select set of mRNAs enriched in activity-dependent functions. We demonstrate that the ZF mutation in EIF-3.G alters translation in a 5′UTR-dependent manner. Our study reveals an in vivo mechanism for eIF3 in governing neuronal protein levels to control neuronal activity states and offers insights into how eIF3 dysregulation contributes to neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Blazie
- Section of Neurobiology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Seika Takayanagi-Kiya
- Section of Neurobiology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Katherine A McCulloch
- Section of Neurobiology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, United States
| | - Yishi Jin
- Section of Neurobiology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, United States
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21
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Grant S, Lester HA. Proteins for increased surface expression of the α6β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor: nothing but good news? J Clin Invest 2021; 130:5685-5687. [PMID: 33074245 DOI: 10.1172/jci143197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Useful animal models of disease in neuroscience can make accurate predictions about a therapeutic outcome, a feature known as predictive validity. In this issue of the JCI, Knowland et al. provide an improved model to assess nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) ligands for treating chronic pain. The authors identify two proteins, the voltage-dependent calcium channel auxiliary subunit BARP and the unfolded protein response sensor IRE1α, that are required for robust heterologous expression of α6β4, an nAChR subtype in dorsal root ganglia (DRG). This nAChR is a candidate for the analgesic effects of nicotine as well as the frog toxin epibatidine. Now researchers can efficiently screen for α6β4 nAChR-selective agonists using heterologous expression systems. Candidates that emerge will enable researchers to test the predictive validity of mouse models for chronic pain in the nAChR context. If all these steps work, one can envision a class of non-opioid nAChR-targeted analgesics for chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Henry A Lester
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
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