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Rafe MR, Saha P, Bello ST. Targeting NMDA receptors with an antagonist is a promising therapeutic strategy for treating neurological disorders. Behav Brain Res 2024; 472:115173. [PMID: 39097148 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.115173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Glutamate activates the NMDARs, significantly affecting multiple processes such as learning, memory, synaptic integration, and excitatory transmission in the central nervous system. Uncontrolled activation of NMDARs is a significant contributor to synaptic dysfunction. Having a properly functioning NMDAR and synapse is crucial for maintaining neuronal communication. In addition, the dysfunction of NMDAR and synapse function could contribute to the development of neurological disorders at the neuronal level; hence, targeting NMDARs with antagonists in the fight against neurological disorders is a promising route. Recently published results from the animal study on different kinds of brain diseases like stroke, epilepsy, tinnitus, ataxia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injury have demonstrated promising therapeutic scopes. Several NMDA receptor antagonists, such as memantine, MK801, ketamine, ifenprodil, gacyclidine, amantadine, agmatine, etc., showed encouraging results against different brain disease mouse models. Given the unique expression of different subunits of the well-organized NMDA receptor system by neurons. It could potentially lead to the development of medications specifically targeting certain receptor subtypes. For a future researcher, conducting more targeted research and trials is crucial to fully understand and develop highly specific medications with good clinical effects and potential neuroprotective properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Rajdoula Rafe
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Pharmacy, Jagannath University, Dhaka 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Pranoy Saha
- Department of Pharmacy, Jagannath University, Dhaka 1100, Bangladesh
| | - Stephen Temitayo Bello
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China; Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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2
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Zhang J, Zhang Y, Wang J, Xia Y, Zhang J, Chen L. Recent advances in Alzheimer's disease: Mechanisms, clinical trials and new drug development strategies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:211. [PMID: 39174535 PMCID: PMC11344989 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01911-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) stands as the predominant form of dementia, presenting significant and escalating global challenges. Its etiology is intricate and diverse, stemming from a combination of factors such as aging, genetics, and environment. Our current understanding of AD pathologies involves various hypotheses, such as the cholinergic, amyloid, tau protein, inflammatory, oxidative stress, metal ion, glutamate excitotoxicity, microbiota-gut-brain axis, and abnormal autophagy. Nonetheless, unraveling the interplay among these pathological aspects and pinpointing the primary initiators of AD require further elucidation and validation. In the past decades, most clinical drugs have been discontinued due to limited effectiveness or adverse effects. Presently, available drugs primarily offer symptomatic relief and often accompanied by undesirable side effects. However, recent approvals of aducanumab (1) and lecanemab (2) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) present the potential in disrease-modifying effects. Nevertheless, the long-term efficacy and safety of these drugs need further validation. Consequently, the quest for safer and more effective AD drugs persists as a formidable and pressing task. This review discusses the current understanding of AD pathogenesis, advances in diagnostic biomarkers, the latest updates of clinical trials, and emerging technologies for AD drug development. We highlight recent progress in the discovery of selective inhibitors, dual-target inhibitors, allosteric modulators, covalent inhibitors, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), and protein-protein interaction (PPI) modulators. Our goal is to provide insights into the prospective development and clinical application of novel AD drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jifa Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yinglu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, 38163, TN, USA
| | - Yilin Xia
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiaxian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neuro-system and Multimorbidity and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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3
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Dunot J, Moreno S, Gandin C, Pousinha PA, Amici M, Dupuis J, Anisimova M, Winschel A, Uriot M, Petshow SJ, Mensch M, Bethus I, Giudici C, Hampel H, Wefers B, Wurst W, Naumann R, Ashby MC, Laube B, Zito K, Mellor JR, Groc L, Willem M, Marie H. APP fragment controls both ionotropic and non-ionotropic signaling of NMDA receptors. Neuron 2024; 112:2708-2720.e9. [PMID: 38878768 PMCID: PMC11343662 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.05.027] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
NMDA receptors (NMDARs) are ionotropic receptors crucial for brain information processing. Yet, evidence also supports an ion-flux-independent signaling mode mediating synaptic long-term depression (LTD) and spine shrinkage. Here, we identify AETA (Aη), an amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) cleavage product, as an NMDAR modulator with the unique dual regulatory capacity to impact both signaling modes. AETA inhibits ionotropic NMDAR activity by competing with the co-agonist and induces an intracellular conformational modification of GluN1 subunits. This favors non-ionotropic NMDAR signaling leading to enhanced LTD and favors spine shrinkage. Endogenously, AETA production is increased by in vivo chemogenetically induced neuronal activity. Genetic deletion of AETA production alters NMDAR transmission and prevents LTD, phenotypes rescued by acute exogenous AETA application. This genetic deletion also impairs contextual fear memory. Our findings demonstrate AETA-dependent NMDAR activation (ADNA), characterizing AETA as a unique type of endogenous NMDAR modulator that exerts bidirectional control over NMDAR signaling and associated information processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jade Dunot
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 06560 Valbonne, France; Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Sebastien Moreno
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Carine Gandin
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Paula A Pousinha
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Mascia Amici
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Julien Dupuis
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France
| | - Margarita Anisimova
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95618, USA
| | - Alex Winschel
- Department of Biology, Neurophysiology und Neurosensory Systems, TU Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Magalie Uriot
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France
| | - Samuel J Petshow
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95618, USA
| | - Maria Mensch
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Ingrid Bethus
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Camilla Giudici
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Heike Hampel
- Biomedical Center (BMC), Division of Metabolic Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Benedikt Wefers
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wurst
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), 81377 Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Ronald Naumann
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael C Ashby
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Bodo Laube
- Department of Biology, Neurophysiology und Neurosensory Systems, TU Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Karen Zito
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95618, USA
| | - Jack R Mellor
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Laurent Groc
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France
| | - Michael Willem
- Biomedical Center (BMC), Division of Metabolic Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Hélène Marie
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, 06560 Valbonne, France.
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Koenig A, Lewis M, Wald J, Li S, Varoglu M, Dai J, Sankoh A, Paumier K, Doherty J, Quirk M. Dalzanemdor (SAGE-718), a novel, investigational N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor positive allosteric modulator: Safety, tolerability, and clinical pharmacology in randomized dose-finding studies in healthy participants and an open-label study in participants with Huntington's disease. Clin Transl Sci 2024; 17:e13852. [PMID: 38988035 PMCID: PMC11236904 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) represent a potential therapeutic strategy for cognitive impairment in disorders associated with NMDAR hypofunction, including Huntington's disease (HD) and Alzheimer's disease. Dalzanemdor (SAGE-718) is a novel, investigational NMDAR PAM being evaluated for the potential treatment of cognitive impairment in these disorders. We report first-in-human, phase I, double-blind, dose-finding studies to assess the safety, tolerability, and clinical pharmacology of dalzanemdor. A single-ascending dose study (dalzanemdor 0.35, 0.75, 1.5, or 3.0 mg vs. placebo) was conducted in healthy participants and included food effects. A multiple-ascending dose study (14 days) was conducted in healthy participants (dalzanemdor 0.5 or 1.0 mg vs. placebo) and HD participants (open-label dalzanemdor 1.0 mg) and included exploratory pharmacodynamics on cognitive performance. Dalzanemdor was generally well tolerated with no adverse events leading to discontinuation. Dalzanemdor exhibited pharmacokinetic parameters appropriate for once-daily dosing. Following single and multiple doses in healthy participants, median terminal half-life was 8-118 h, and the median time to reach maximum plasma concentration was 4-7 h. Exposures were dose-proportional after single dose (6-46 ng/mL) and more than dose-proportional after multiple doses (6-41 ng/mL). With multiple dosing, a steady state was achieved after 11 days in healthy participants and 13 days in HD participants. Dalzanemdor exposure decreased slightly with food. In HD participants, results suggest that dalzanemdor may improve cognitive performance on tests of executive function. These results support continued clinical development of dalzanemdor for the potential treatment of cognitive impairment in disorders of NMDAR hypofunction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeff Wald
- Sage Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Sigui Li
- Sage Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Jing Dai
- Sage Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | | | | | | | - Mike Quirk
- Sage Therapeutics, IncCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
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5
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Kellner S, Berlin S. Rescuing tri-heteromeric NMDA receptor function: the potential of pregnenolone-sulfate in loss-of-function GRIN2B variants. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:235. [PMID: 38795169 PMCID: PMC11127902 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05243-x] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs emerging from GRIN genes) are tetrameric receptors that form diverse channel compositions in neurons, typically consisting of two GluN1 subunits combined with two GluN2(A-D) subunits. During prenatal stages, the predominant channels are di-heteromers with two GluN1 and two GluN2B subunits due to the high abundance of GluN2B subunits. Postnatally, the expression of GluN2A subunits increases, giving rise to additional subtypes, including GluN2A-containing di-heteromers and tri-heteromers with GluN1, GluN2A, and GluN2B subunits. The latter emerge as the major receptor subtype at mature synapses in the hippocampus. Despite extensive research on purely di-heteromeric receptors containing two identical GRIN variants, the impact of a single variant on the function of other channel forms, notably tri-heteromers, is lagging. In this study, we systematically investigated the effects of two de novo GRIN2B variants (G689C and G689S) in pure, mixed di- and tri-heteromers. Our findings reveal that incorporating a single variant in mixed di-heteromers or tri-heteromers exerts a dominant negative effect on glutamate potency, although 'mixed' channels show improved potency compared to pure variant-containing di-heteromers. We show that a single variant within a receptor complex does not impair the response of all receptor subtypes to the positive allosteric modulator pregnenolone-sulfate (PS), whereas spermine completely fails to potentiate tri-heteromers containing GluN2A and -2B-subunits. We examined PS on primary cultured hippocampal neurons transfected with the variants, and observed a positive impact over current amplitudes and synaptic activity. Together, our study supports previous observations showing that mixed di-heteromers exhibit improved glutamate potency and extend these findings towards the exploration of the effect of Loss-of-Function variants over tri-heteromers. Notably, we provide an initial and crucial demonstration of the beneficial effects of GRIN2B-relevant potentiators on tri-heteromers. Our results underscore the significance of studying how different variants affect distinct receptor subtypes, as these effects cannot be inferred solely from observations made on pure di-heteromers. Overall, this study contributes to ongoing efforts to understand the pathophysiology of GRINopathies and provides insights into potential treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shai Kellner
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 1 Efron Bat Galim, Haifa, 3525433, Israel
| | - Shai Berlin
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 1 Efron Bat Galim, Haifa, 3525433, Israel.
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6
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Juliá-Palacios N, Olivella M, Sigatullina Bondarenko M, Ibáñez-Micó S, Muñoz-Cabello B, Alonso-Luengo O, Soto-Insuga V, García-Navas D, Cuesta-Herraiz L, Andreo-Lillo P, Aguilera-Albesa S, Hedrera-Fernández A, González Alguacil E, Sánchez-Carpintero R, Martín Del Valle F, Jiménez González E, Cean Cabrera L, Medina-Rivera I, Perez-Ordoñez M, Colomé R, Lopez L, Engracia Cazorla M, Fornaguera M, Ormazabal A, Alonso-Colmenero I, Illescas KS, Balsells-Mejía S, Mari-Vico R, Duffo Viñas M, Cappuccio G, Terrone G, Romano R, Manti F, Mastrangelo M, Alfonsi C, de Siqueira Barros B, Nizon M, Gjerulfsen CE, Muro VL, Karall D, Zeiner F, Masnada S, Peterlongo I, Oyarzábal A, Santos-Gómez A, Altafaj X, García-Cazorla Á. L-serine treatment in patients with GRIN-related encephalopathy: a phase 2A, non-randomized study. Brain 2024; 147:1653-1666. [PMID: 38380699 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
GRIN-related disorders are rare developmental encephalopathies with variable manifestations and limited therapeutic options. Here, we present the first non-randomized, open-label, single-arm trial (NCT04646447) designed to evaluate the tolerability and efficacy of L-serine in children with GRIN genetic variants leading to loss-of-function. In this phase 2A trial, patients aged 2-18 years with GRIN loss-of-function pathogenic variants received L-serine for 52 weeks. Primary end points included safety and efficacy by measuring changes in the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Bayley Scales, age-appropriate Wechsler Scales, Gross Motor Function-88, Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, Child Behavior Checklist and the Caregiver-Teacher Report Form following 12 months of treatment. Secondary outcomes included seizure frequency and intensity reduction and EEG improvement. Assessments were performed 3 months and 1 day before starting treatment and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after beginning the supplement. Twenty-four participants were enrolled (13 males/11 females, mean age 9.8 years, SD 4.8), 23 of whom completed the study. Patients had GRIN2B, GRIN1 and GRIN2A variants (12, 6 and 5 cases, respectively). Their clinical phenotypes showed 91% had intellectual disability (61% severe), 83% had behavioural problems, 78% had movement disorders and 58% had epilepsy. Based on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Composite standard scores, nine children were classified as mildly impaired (cut-off score > 55), whereas 14 were assigned to the clinically severe group. An improvement was detected in the Daily Living Skills domain (P = 0035) from the Vineland Scales within the mild group. Expressive (P = 0.005), Personal (P = 0.003), Community (P = 0.009), Interpersonal (P = 0.005) and Fine Motor (P = 0.031) subdomains improved for the whole cohort, although improvement was mostly found in the mild group. The Growth Scale Values in the Cognitive subdomain of the Bayley-III Scale showed a significant improvement in the severe group (P = 0.016), with a mean increase of 21.6 points. L-serine treatment was associated with significant improvement in the median Gross Motor Function-88 total score (P = 0.002) and the mean Pediatric Quality of Life total score (P = 0.00068), regardless of severity. L-serine normalized the EEG pattern in five children and the frequency of seizures in one clinically affected child. One patient discontinued treatment due to irritability and insomnia. The trial provides evidence that L-serine is a safe treatment for children with GRIN loss-of-function variants, having the potential to improve adaptive behaviour, motor function and quality of life, with a better response to the treatment in mild phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Juliá-Palacios
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Olivella
- Bioinformatics and Bioimaging Group. Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, 08500 Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life and Health Sciences (IRIS-CC), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, 08500 Vic, Spain
| | - Mariya Sigatullina Bondarenko
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Beatriz Muñoz-Cabello
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Olga Alonso-Luengo
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | | | - Deyanira García-Navas
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Cáceres, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Patricia Andreo-Lillo
- Neuropediatric Unit, Pediatric Department, University Hospital of Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Sant Joan d'Alacant, Spain
| | - Sergio Aguilera-Albesa
- Paediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Antonio Hedrera-Fernández
- Child Neurology Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ines Medina-Rivera
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Perez-Ordoñez
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Area, Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Colomé
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Lopez
- Department of Rehabilitation, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Engracia Cazorla
- Department of Rehabilitation, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Fornaguera
- Department of Rehabilitation, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aida Ormazabal
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
- European Reference Network for Hereditary Metabolic Diseases (MetabERN), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Itziar Alonso-Colmenero
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Full Member of ERN EpiCare, Barcelona University, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Katia Sofía Illescas
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sol Balsells-Mejía
- Department of Research Promotion and Management. Statistical Support, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (HSJD), 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosanna Mari-Vico
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Duffo Viñas
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Area, Psychiatry and Psychology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gerarda Cappuccio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', 80125 Naples, Italy
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Pozzuoli, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Terrone
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Romano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Napoli 'Federico II', 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Filippo Manti
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Mario Mastrangelo
- Department of Women and Child Health and Uroginecological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Department of Neuroscience/Mental Health, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Alfonsi
- Department of Human Neuroscience, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Roma, Lazio, Italy
| | - Bruna de Siqueira Barros
- Núcleo de Estudos da Saúde do Adolescente, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Ciência Médicas, 56066 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Mathilde Nizon
- Service de Génétique Médicale, CHU Nantes, 44093 Nantes, France
| | | | - Valeria L Muro
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, Hospital Britanico Buenos Aires, C1280AEB Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniela Karall
- Clinic for Paediatrics, Division of Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Fiona Zeiner
- Clinic for Paediatrics, Division of Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Silvia Masnada
- Department of Child Neurology, V. Buzzi Children's Hospital, 20125 Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Peterlongo
- Department of Child Neurology, V. Buzzi Children's Hospital, 20125 Milan, Italy
| | - Alfonso Oyarzábal
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Santos-Gómez
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Altafaj
- Department of Biomedicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ángeles García-Cazorla
- Neurometabolic Unit and Synaptic Metabolism Lab, Department of Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu-IRSJD, CIBERER and MetabERN, 08950 Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Jiang L, Liu N, Zhao F, Huang B, Kang D, Zhan P, Liu X. Discovery of GluN2A subtype-selective N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor ligands. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:1987-2005. [PMID: 38799621 PMCID: PMC11119548 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which belong to the ionotropic Glutamate receptors, constitute a family of ligand-gated ion channels. Within the various subtypes of NMDA receptors, the GluN1/2A subtype plays a significant role in central nervous system (CNS) disorders. The present article aims to provide a comprehensive review of ligands targeting GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors, encompassing negative allosteric modulators (NAMs), positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) and competitive antagonists. Moreover, the ligands' structure-activity relationships (SARs) and the binding models of representative ligands are also discussed, providing valuable insights for the clinical rational design of effective drugs targeting CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fabao Zhao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Boshi Huang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Dongwei Kang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Peng Zhan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xinyong Liu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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8
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Fonteneau M, Brugoux A, Jaccaz D, Donello JE, Banerjee P, Le Merrer J, Becker JA. The NMDA receptor modulator zelquistinel durably relieves behavioral deficits in three mouse models of autism spectrum disorder. Neuropharmacology 2024; 248:109889. [PMID: 38401792 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by deficient social communication and interaction together with restricted, stereotyped behaviors. Currently approved treatments relieve comorbidities rather than core symptoms. Since excitation/inhibition balance and synaptic plasticity are disrupted in ASD, molecules targeting excitatory synaptic transmission appear as highly promising candidates to treat this pathology. Among glutamatergic receptors, the NMDA receptor has received particular attention through the last decade to develop novel allosteric modulators. Here, we show that positive NMDA receptor modulation by zelquistinel, a spirocyclic β-lactam platform chemical, relieves core symptoms in two genetic and one environmental mouse models of ASD. A single oral dose of zelquistinel rescued, in a dose-response manner, social deficits and stereotypic behavior in Shank3Δex13-16-/- mice while chronic intraperitoneal administration promoted a long-lasting relief of such autistic-like features in these mice. Subchronic oral mid-dose zelquistinel treatment demonstrated durable effects in Shank3Δex13-16-/-, Fmr1-/- and in utero valproate-exposed mice. Carry-over effects were best maintained in the Fmr1 null mouse model, with social parameters being still fully recovered two weeks after treatment withdrawal. Among recently developed NMDA receptor subunit modulators, zelquistinel displays a promising therapeutic potential to relieve core symptoms in ASD patients, with oral bioavailability and long-lasting effects boding well for clinical applications. Efficacy in three mouse models with different etiologies supports high translational value. Further, this compound represents an innovative pharmacological tool to investigate plasticity mechanisms underlying behavioral deficits in animal models of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Agathe Brugoux
- UMR 1253, IBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Tours, France; Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France
| | - Déborah Jaccaz
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France; Unité Expérimentale de Physiologie Animale de l'Orfrasière, INRAE UE 0028, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Julie Le Merrer
- UMR 1253, IBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Tours, France; Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France
| | - Jérôme Aj Becker
- UMR 1253, IBrain, Université de Tours, Inserm, CNRS, Tours, France; Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRAE UMR 0085, CNRS UMR 7247, IFCE, Université de Tours, Inserm, Nouzilly, France
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9
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Zhu H, Chen X, Zhang L, Liu X, Chen J, Zhang HT, Dong M. Discovery of novel positive allosteric modulators targeting GluN1/2A NMDARs as anti-stroke therapeutic agents. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1307-1319. [PMID: 38665828 PMCID: PMC11042165 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00455d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Excitotoxicity due to excessive activation of NMDARs is one of the main mechanisms of neuronal death during ischemic stroke. Previous studies have suggested that activation of either synaptic or extrasynaptic GluN2B-containing NMDARs results in neuronal damage, whereas activation of GluN2A-containing NMDARs promotes neuronal survival against ischemic insults. This study applied a systematic in silico, in vitro, and in vivo approach to the discovery of novel and potential GluN1/2A NMDAR positive allosteric modulators (PAMs). Ten compounds were obtained and identified as potential GluN1/2A PAMs by structure-based virtual screening and calcium imaging. The neuroprotective activity of the candidate compounds was demonstrated in vitro. Subsequently, compound 15 (aegeline) was tested further in the model of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) in vivo, which significantly decreased cerebral infarction. The mechanism by which aegeline exerts its effect on allosteric modulation was revealed using molecular dynamics simulations. Finally, we found that the neuroprotective effect of aegeline was significantly correlated with the enhanced phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Our study discovered the neuroprotective effect of aegeline as a novel PAM targeting GluN1/2A NMDAR, which provides a potential opportunity for the development of therapeutic agents for ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qingdao Women's and Children's Hospital Qingdao 266034 Shandong Province China
| | - Xuequan Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
| | - Ji Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
| | - Han-Ting Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
| | - Mingxin Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University Qingdao Shandong 266021 People's Republic of China
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10
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Bender PA, Chakraborty S, Durham RJ, Berka V, Carrillo E, Jayaraman V. Bi-directional allosteric pathway in NMDA receptor activation and modulation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.16.589813. [PMID: 38659769 PMCID: PMC11042370 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.16.589813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are ionotropic glutamate receptors involved in learning and memory. NMDA receptors primarily comprise two GluN1 and two GluN2 subunits. The GluN2 subunit dictates biophysical receptor properties, including the extent of receptor activation and desensitization. GluN2A- and GluN2D-containing receptors represent two functional extremes. To uncover the conformational basis of their functional divergence, we utilized single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer to probe the extracellular domains of these receptor subtypes under resting and ligand-bound conditions. We find that the conformational profile of the GluN2 amino-terminal domain correlates with the disparate functions of GluN2A- and GluN2D-containing receptors. Changes at the pre-transmembrane segments inversely correlate with those observed at the amino-terminal domain, confirming direct allosteric communication between these domains. Additionally, binding of a positive allosteric modulator at the transmembrane domain shifts the conformational profile of the amino-terminal domain towards the active state, revealing a bidirectional allosteric pathway between extracellular and transmembrane domains.
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11
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Qi X, Yu X, Wei L, Jiang H, Dong J, Li H, Wei Y, Zhao L, Deng W, Guo W, Hu X, Li T. Novel α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) potentiator LT-102: A promising therapeutic agent for treating cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14713. [PMID: 38615362 PMCID: PMC11016348 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14713] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS We aimed to evaluate the potential of a novel selective α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) potentiator, LT-102, in treating cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) and elucidating its mechanism of action. METHODS The activity of LT-102 was examined by Ca2+ influx assays and patch-clamp in rat primary hippocampal neurons. The structure of the complex was determined by X-ray crystallography. The selectivity of LT-102 was evaluated by hERG tail current recording and kinase-inhibition assays. The electrophysiological characterization of LT-102 was characterized by patch-clamp recording in mouse hippocampal slices. The expression and phosphorylation levels of proteins were examined by Western blotting. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. RESULTS LT-102 is a novel and selective AMPAR potentiator with little agonistic effect, which binds to the allosteric site formed by the intradimer interface of AMPAR's GluA2 subunit. Treatment with LT-102 facilitated long-term potentiation in mouse hippocampal slices and reversed cognitive deficits in a phencyclidine-induced mouse model. Additionally, LT-102 treatment increased the protein level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the phosphorylation of GluA1 in primary neurons and hippocampal tissues. CONCLUSION We conclude that LT-102 ameliorates cognitive impairments in a phencyclidine-induced model of schizophrenia by enhancing synaptic function, which could make it a potential therapeutic candidate for CIAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyu Qi
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xueli Yu
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Long Wei
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Han Jiang
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Jiangwen Dong
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Hongxing Li
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Yingying Wei
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Liansheng Zhao
- The Psychiatric Laboratory, the State Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China Hospital of Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Wei Deng
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Wanjun Guo
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xun Hu
- The Clinical Research Center and Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangHangzhouChina
| | - Tao Li
- Affiliated Mental Health Center & Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain MedicineZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain‐Machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical NeurobiologyZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
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12
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Beckley JT, Aman TK, Ackley MA, Kazdoba TM, Lewis MC, Smith AC, Farley BJ, Dai J, Deats W, Hoffmann E, Robichaud AJ, Doherty JJ, Quirk MC. Pharmacological characterization of SAGE-718, a novel positive allosteric modulator of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:1028-1050. [PMID: 37698384 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16235] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Select neuroactive steroids tune neural activity by modulating excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, including the endogenous cholesterol metabolite 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol (24(S)-HC), which is an N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor positive allosteric modulator (PAM). NMDA receptor PAMs are potentially an effective pharmacotherapeutic strategy to treat conditions associated with NMDA receptor hypofunction. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological recording experiments and behavioural approaches, we evaluated the effect of SAGE-718, a novel neuroactive steroid NMDA receptor PAM currently in clinical development for the treatment of cognitive impairment, on NMDA receptor function and endpoints that are altered by NMDA receptor hypoactivity and assessed its safety profile. KEY RESULTS SAGE-718 potentiated GluN1/GluN2A-D NMDA receptors with equipotency and increased NMDA receptor excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) amplitude without affecting decay kinetics in striatal medium spiny neurons. SAGE-718 increased the rate of unblock of the NMDA receptor open channel blocker ketamine on GluN1/GluN2A in vitro and accelerated the rate of return on the ketamine-evoked increase in gamma frequency band power, as measured with electroencephalogram (EEG), suggesting that PAM activity is driven by increased channel open probability. SAGE-718 ameliorated deficits due to NMDA receptor hypofunction, including social deficits induced by subchronic administration of phencyclidine, and behavioural and electrophysiological deficits from cholesterol and 24(S)-HC depletion caused by 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase inhibition. Finally, SAGE-718 did not produce epileptiform activity in a seizure model or neurodegeneration following chronic dosing. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These findings provide strong evidence that SAGE-718 is a neuroactive steroid NMDA receptor PAM with a mechanism that is well suited as a treatment for conditions associated with NMDA receptor hypofunction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Teresa K Aman
- Sage Therapeutics Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | - Anne C Smith
- Sage Therapeutics Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Jing Dai
- Sage Therapeutics Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wayne Deats
- Sage Therapeutics Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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Xu Y, Song R, Perszyk RE, Chen W, Kim S, Park KL, Allen JP, Nocilla KA, Zhang J, XiangWei W, Tankovic A, McDaniels ED, Sheikh R, Mizu RK, Karamchandani MM, Hu C, Kusumoto H, Pecha J, Cappuccio G, Gaitanis J, Sullivan J, Shashi V, Petrovski S, Jauss RT, Lee HK, Bozarth X, Lynch DR, Helbig I, Pierson TM, Boerkoel CF, Myers SJ, Lemke JR, Benke TA, Yuan H, Traynelis SF. De novo GRIN variants in M3 helix associated with neurological disorders control channel gating of NMDA receptor. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:153. [PMID: 38538865 PMCID: PMC10973091 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05069-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are members of the glutamate receptor family and participate in excitatory postsynaptic transmission throughout the central nervous system. Genetic variants in GRIN genes encoding NMDAR subunits are associated with a spectrum of neurological disorders. The M3 transmembrane helices of the NMDAR couple directly to the agonist-binding domains and form a helical bundle crossing in the closed receptors that occludes the pore. The M3 functions as a transduction element whose conformational change couples ligand binding to opening of an ion conducting pore. In this study, we report the functional consequences of 48 de novo missense variants in GRIN1, GRIN2A, and GRIN2B that alter residues in the M3 transmembrane helix. These de novo variants were identified in children with neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders including epilepsy, developmental delay, intellectual disability, hypotonia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. All 48 variants in M3 for which comprehensive testing was completed produce a gain-of-function (28/48) compared to loss-of-function (9/48); 11 variants had an indeterminant phenotype. This supports the idea that a key structural feature of the M3 gate exists to stabilize the closed state so that agonist binding can drive channel opening. Given that most M3 variants enhance channel gating, we assessed the potency of FDA-approved NMDAR channel blockers on these variant receptors. These data provide new insight into the structure-function relationship of the NMDAR gate, and suggest that variants within the M3 transmembrane helix produce a gain-of-function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, China
| | - Rui Song
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Riley E Perszyk
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Wenjuan Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sukhan Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Center for Functional Evaluation of Rare Variants (CFERV), Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Kristen L Park
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - James P Allen
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Kelsey A Nocilla
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Wenshu XiangWei
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Epilepsy Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Anel Tankovic
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ellington D McDaniels
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Rehan Sheikh
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ruth K Mizu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Manish M Karamchandani
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Chun Hu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hirofumi Kusumoto
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Joseph Pecha
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Gerarda Cappuccio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, Federico II University, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John Gaitanis
- Hasbro Children's Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jennifer Sullivan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Vandana Shashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Slave Petrovski
- Ce Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Genomics Research, Discovery Sciences, AstraZeneca, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, Cambridge, UK
| | - Robin-Tobias Jauss
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hyun Kyung Lee
- Provincial Medical Genetics Program, Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, B.C, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Xiuhua Bozarth
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - David R Lynch
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ingo Helbig
- Division of Child Neurology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Tyler Mark Pierson
- Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Center for the Undiagnosed Patient, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cornelius F Boerkoel
- Provincial Medical Genetics Program, Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, B.C, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Scott J Myers
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Center for Functional Evaluation of Rare Variants (CFERV), Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Johannes R Lemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
- Center for Rare Diseases, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Timothy A Benke
- Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Hongjie Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Center for Functional Evaluation of Rare Variants (CFERV), Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Stephen F Traynelis
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Center for Functional Evaluation of Rare Variants (CFERV), Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Emory Neurodegenerative Disease Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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14
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Heresco-Levy U, Lerer B. Synergistic psychedelic - NMDAR modulator treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:146-152. [PMID: 37945694 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02312-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Modern research data suggest a therapeutic role for serotonergic psychedelics in depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders, although psychotomimetic effects may limit their widespread utilization. Serotonergic psychedelics enhance neuroplasticity via serotonin 2 A receptors (5HT2AR) activation and complex serotonergic-glutamatergic interactions involving the ionotropic glutamate receptors, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) channel antagonists, i.e. ketamine, and glycine modulatory site full and partial agonists, i.e., D-serine (DSR) and D-cycloserine (DCS), share some of these mechanisms of action and have neuroplastic and antidepressant effects. Moreover, procognitive effects have been reported for DSR and DCS and 5HT2AR-NMDAR interactions modulate neuronal excitability in prefrontal cortex and represent a target for new antipsychotics. We hypothesize that the synchronous administration of a psychedelic and a NMDAR modulator may increase the therapeutic impact of each of the treatment components and allow for dose adjustments and improved safety. We propose to initially focus research on the acute concurrent administration of psilocybin and DSR or DCS in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uriel Heresco-Levy
- Department of Psychiatry, Herzog Medical Center; Hebrew University Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Bernard Lerer
- Hadassah BrainLabs, Center for Psychedelic Research, Hadassah Medical Center, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel.
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15
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Petrov AM. Oxysterols in Central and Peripheral Synaptic Communication. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1440:91-123. [PMID: 38036877 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43883-7_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Cholesterol is a key molecule for synaptic transmission, and both central and peripheral synapses are cholesterol rich. During intense neuronal activity, a substantial portion of synaptic cholesterol can be oxidized by either enzymatic or non-enzymatic pathways to form oxysterols, which in turn modulate the activities of neurotransmitter receptors (e.g., NMDA and adrenergic receptors), signaling molecules (nitric oxide synthases, protein kinase C, liver X receptors), and synaptic vesicle cycling involved in neurotransmitters release. 24-Hydroxycholesterol, produced by neurons in the brain, could directly affect neighboring synapses and change neurotransmission. 27-Hydroxycholesterol, which can cross the blood-brain barrier, can alter both synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity. Increased generation of 25-hydroxycholesterol by activated microglia and macrophages could link inflammatory processes to learning and neuronal regulation. Amyloids and oxidative stress can lead to an increase in the levels of ring-oxidized sterols and some of these oxysterols (4-cholesten-3-one, 5α-cholestan-3-one, 7β-hydroxycholesterol, 7-ketocholesterol) have a high potency to disturb or modulate neurotransmission at both the presynaptic and postsynaptic levels. Overall, oxysterols could be used as "molecular prototypes" for therapeutic approaches. Analogs of 24-hydroxycholesterol (SGE-301, SGE-550, SAGE718) can be used for correction of NMDA receptor hypofunction-related states, whereas inhibitors of cholesterol 24-hydroxylase, cholestane-3β,5α,6β-triol, and cholest-4-en-3-one oxime (olesoxime) can be utilized as potential anti-epileptic drugs and (or) protectors from excitotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey M Petrov
- Laboratory of Biophysics of Synaptic Processes, Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center "Kazan Scientific Center of RAS", Kazan, RT, Russia.
- Kazan State Medial University, Kazan, RT, Russia.
- Kazan Federal University, Kazan, RT, Russia.
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16
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Liu W, Li Y, Zhao T, Gong M, Wang X, Zhang Y, Xu L, Li W, Li Y, Jia J. The role of N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptors in Alzheimer's disease: From pathophysiology to therapeutic approaches. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 231:102534. [PMID: 37783430 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
N-Methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptors (NMDARs) are involved in multiple physiopathological processes, including synaptic plasticity, neuronal network activities, excitotoxic events, and cognitive impairment. Abnormalities in NMDARs can initiate a cascade of pathological events, notably in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and even other neuropsychiatric disorders. The subunit composition of NMDARs is plastic, giving rise to a diverse array of receptor subtypes. While they are primarily found in neurons, NMDAR complexes, comprising both traditional and atypical subunits, are also present in non-neuronal cells, influencing the functions of various peripheral tissues. Furthermore, protein-protein interactions within NMDAR complexes has been linked with Aβ accumulation, tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, all of which potentially served as an obligatory relay of cognitive impairment. Nonetheless, the precise mechanistic link remains to be fully elucidated. In this review, we provided an in-depth analysis of the structure and function of NMDAR, investigated their interactions with various pathogenic proteins, discussed the current landscape of NMDAR-based therapeutics, and highlighted the remaining challenges during drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenying Liu
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Tan Zhao
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Min Gong
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Xuechu Wang
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China
| | - Lingzhi Xu
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Wenwen Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China
| | - Jianping Jia
- Innovation Center for Neurological Disorders and Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, PR China; Clinical Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Memory Impairment, Capital Medical University, PR China; Center of Alzheimer's Disease, Beijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Capital Medical University, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100053, PR China.
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17
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Mony L, Paoletti P. Mechanisms of NMDA receptor regulation. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2023; 83:102815. [PMID: 37988826 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2023.102815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are glutamate-gated ion channels widely expressed in the central nervous system that play key role in brain development and plasticity. On the downside, NMDAR dysfunction, be it hyperactivity or hypofunction, is harmful to neuronal function and has emerged as a common theme in various neuropsychiatric disorders including autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, intellectual disability, and schizophrenia. Not surprisingly, NMDAR signaling is under a complex set of regulatory mechanisms that maintain NMDAR-mediated transmission in check. These include an unusual large number of endogenous agents that directly bind NMDARs and tune their activity in a subunit-dependent manner. Here, we review current knowledge on the regulation of NMDAR signaling. We focus on the regulation of the receptor by its microenvironment as well as by external (i.e. pharmacological) factors and their underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms. Recent developments showing how NMDAR dysregulation participate to disease mechanisms are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Mony
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université PSL, CNRS, INSERM, F-75005 Paris, France.
| | - Pierre Paoletti
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université PSL, CNRS, INSERM, F-75005 Paris, France.
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18
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Wu E, Zhang J, Zhang J, Zhu S. Structural insights into gating mechanism and allosteric regulation of NMDA receptors. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2023; 83:102806. [PMID: 37950957 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2023.102806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) belong to the ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) superfamily and act as coincidence detectors that are crucial to neuronal development and synaptic plasticity. They typically assemble as heterotetramers of two obligatory GluN1 subunits and two alternative GluN2 (from 2A to 2D) and/or GluN3 (3A and 3B) subunits. These alternative subunits mainly determine the diverse biophysical and pharmacological properties of different NMDAR subtypes. Over the past decade, the unprecedented advances in structure elucidation of these tetrameric NMDARs have provided atomic insights into channel gating, allosteric modulation and the action of therapeutic drugs. A wealth of structural and functional information would accelerate the artificial intelligence-based drug design to exploit more NMDAR subtype-specific molecules for the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enjiang Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China; Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China. https://twitter.com/DuDaDa_Flower
| | - Jilin Zhang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiwei Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Compound Chinese Medicines, The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Standardization of Chinese Medicines, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Shujia Zhu
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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19
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Ladagu AD, Olopade FE, Adejare A, Olopade JO. GluN2A and GluN2B N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor (NMDARs) Subunits: Their Roles and Therapeutic Antagonists in Neurological Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1535. [PMID: 38004401 PMCID: PMC10674917 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are ion channels that respond to the neurotransmitter glutamate, playing a crucial role in the permeability of calcium ions and excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system (CNS). Composed of various subunits, NMDARs are predominantly formed by two obligatory GluN1 subunits (with eight splice variants) along with regulatory subunits GluN2 (GluN2A-2D) and GluN3 (GluN3A-B). They are widely distributed throughout the CNS and are involved in essential functions such as synaptic transmission, learning, memory, plasticity, and excitotoxicity. The presence of GluN2A and GluN2B subunits is particularly important for cognitive processes and has been strongly implicated in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Understanding the roles of GluN2A and GluN2B NMDARs in neuropathologies provides valuable insights into the underlying causes and complexities of major nervous system disorders. This knowledge is vital for the development of selective antagonists targeting GluN2A and GluN2B subunits using pharmacological and molecular methods. Such antagonists represent a promising class of NMDA receptor inhibitors that have the potential to be developed into neuroprotective drugs with optimal therapeutic profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amany Digal Ladagu
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200284, Nigeria; (A.D.L.); (J.O.O.)
| | - Funmilayo Eniola Olopade
- Developmental Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200284, Nigeria
| | - Adeboye Adejare
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, Saint Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA
| | - James Olukayode Olopade
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200284, Nigeria; (A.D.L.); (J.O.O.)
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20
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Yan W, Guo T, Liu N, Cui X, Wei X, Sun Y, Hu H, Chen L. Erythropoietin ameliorates cognitive deficits by improving hippocampal and synaptic damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Cell Signal 2023; 106:110614. [PMID: 36739954 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that erythropoietin (EPO) is an effective neuroprotective and neurotrophic agent for neurological disorders, such as traumatic brain injury and Alzheimer's disease. However, the effectiveness of EPO administration against diabetic cognitive impairments has rarely been examined. In this study, we investigated the effects of EPO on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced male C57BL/6 J mice. Then, we sought to clarify the mechanisms of EPO-mediated neuroprotection in high-glucose (HG)-stimulated HT22 cells. In vivo, we found that STZ-induced diabetic mice showed impaired spatial learning and memory, which was alleviated by EPO treatment. EPO also significantly lowered elevated fasting blood glucose levels, improved pancreatic and hippocampal damage, and restored oxidative stress in the STZ-induced diabetic mice. In vitro, EPO markedly increased cell viability, restrained the expression of pro-apoptotic Bax, enhanced the expression of pro-caspase 3, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD-95), and attenuated the upregulation of N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor subunits NR1, NR2A and NR2B in HG-induced HT22 cells. The protective effects of EPO was obviously abolished by treatment with an NMDA receptor agonist. Our findings revealed that EPO impedes hippocampal and synaptic damage and neuronal apoptosis by regulating BDNF and PSD-95 expression through NMDA receptors, thereby ameliorating cognitive impairments in mice with T1DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Translational Medicine Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Tingli Guo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Xin Cui
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Xiaotong Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Yuzhuo Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Translational Medicine Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Lina Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Translational Medicine Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China; International Obesity and Metabolic Disease Research Center (IIOMC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
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21
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Bird CW, Valenzuela CF. The positive allosteric modulator of NMDA receptors, GNE-9278, blocks the ethanol-induced decrease of excitability in developing retrosplenial cortex neurons from mice. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep 2023; 43:77-84. [PMID: 36524248 PMCID: PMC10009431 DOI: 10.1002/npr2.12306] [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: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Binge-like exposure to ethanol during the brain growth spurt triggers apoptotic neurodegeneration in multiple brain regions, including the retrosplenial cortex, a brain region that is part of the hippocampal-diencephalic-cingulate memory network. This is mediated, in part, by reduced Ca2+ influx through N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors followed by a decrease in the activation of pro-survival genes. Here, we tested whether a positive allosteric modulator of NMDA receptors could counteract the inhibitory effect of ethanol on developing retrosplenial cortex pyramidal neurons. We used patch-clamp electrophysiological techniques in acute slices from postnatal day 6-8 mice to test the effect of the positive allosteric modulator GNE-9278 on ethanol-induced inhibition of NMDA receptor function. GNE-9278 dose-dependently increased the amplitude, decay time, and total charge of NMDA excitatory postsynaptic currents. At a concentration of 5 μmol L-1 , GNE-9278 significantly reduced the 90 mmol L-1 ethanol-induced inhibition of NMDA excitatory postsynaptic current amplitude, decay time, and total charge. Current-clamp experiments showed that 5 μmol L-1 GNE-9278 ameliorated the 90 mmol L-1 ethanol-induced inhibition of synaptically-evoked action potential firing and compound excitatory postsynaptic potential amplitude. These findings indicate that positive allosteric modulators mitigate ethanol-induced hypofunction of NMDA receptors in developing cerebral cortex neurons, an effect that could ameliorate its pro-apoptotic effects during the late stages of fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clark W Bird
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Carlos F Valenzuela
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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22
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Chen H, Dong Y, Wu Y, Yi F. Targeting NMDA receptor signaling for therapeutic intervention in brain disorders. Rev Neurosci 2023:revneuro-2022-0096. [PMID: 36586105 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2022-0096] [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: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
N-Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor hyperfunction plays a key role in the pathological processes of depression and neurodegenerative diseases, whereas NMDA receptor hypofunction is implicated in schizophrenia. Considerable efforts have been made to target NMDA receptor function for the therapeutic intervention in those brain disorders. In this mini-review, we first discuss ion flux-dependent NMDA receptor signaling and ion flux-independent NMDA receptor signaling that result from structural rearrangement upon binding of endogenous agonists. Then, we review current strategies for exploring druggable targets of the NMDA receptor signaling and promising future directions, which are poised to result in new therapeutic agents for several brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Chen
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Yuanping Dong
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Yun Wu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Feng Yi
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
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23
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Niu M, Yang X, Li Y, Sun Y, Wang L, Ha J, Xie Y, Gao Z, Tian C, Wang L, Sun Y. Progresses in GluN2A-containing NMDA Receptors and their Selective Regulators. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:139-153. [PMID: 34978648 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01185-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
NMDA receptors play an important physiological role in regulating synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. GluN2A subunits are the most abundant functional subunits of NMDA receptors expressed in mature brain, and their dysfunction is related to various neurological diseases. According to subunit composition, GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors can be divided into two types: diheteromeric and triheteromeric receptors. In this review, the expression, functional and pharmacological properties of different kinds of GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors as well as selective GluN2A regulators were described to further understand this type of NMDA receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghan Niu
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Yuhua East Road 70, Shijiazhuang, 050018, Hebei, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Hebei Chemical & Pharmaceutical College, Fangxing Road 88, Shijiazhuang, 050026, Hebei, China.,Hebei Technological Innovation Center of Chiral Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Yuhua East Road 70, Shijiazhuang, 050018, Hebei, China
| | - Yanping Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Yuhua East Road 70, Shijiazhuang, 050018, Hebei, China.,Hebei Research Center of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, China.,State Key Laboratory Breeding Base-Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry for Drug, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, California State University, Long Beach, USA
| | - Jing Ha
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Yuhua East Road 70, Shijiazhuang, 050018, Hebei, China
| | - Yinghua Xie
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Yuhua East Road 70, Shijiazhuang, 050018, Hebei, China
| | - Zibin Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Yuhua East Road 70, Shijiazhuang, 050018, Hebei, China.,Hebei Research Center of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, China.,State Key Laboratory Breeding Base-Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry for Drug, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Changzheng Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Donggang Road 89, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China.
| | - Le Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Hebei Chemical & Pharmaceutical College, Fangxing Road 88, Shijiazhuang, 050026, Hebei, China. .,Hebei Technological Innovation Center of Chiral Medicine, Shijiazhuang, China.
| | - Yongjun Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Yuhua East Road 70, Shijiazhuang, 050018, Hebei, China. .,Hebei Research Center of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, China. .,State Key Laboratory Breeding Base-Hebei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry for Drug, Shijiazhuang, China.
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24
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Zhao T, Zhong R, Zhang X, Li G, Zhou C, Fang S, Ding Y, Lin W. Efavirenz restored NMDA receptor dysfunction and inhibited epileptic seizures in GluN2A/Grin2a mutant mice. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1086462. [PMID: 36937661 PMCID: PMC10017539 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1086462] [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: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is one of the main receptor of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate in the brain, which is the key determinant of the excitatory/inhibitory balance of neural network. GluN2A/GRIN2A is one of the subunits of NMDAR and plays an important role in epilepsy. Approximately 78% of patients with GluN2A/Grin2a mutations have epilepsy, and the underlying mechanism of this association is not well characterized. Methods We constructed a mouse model of hyperthermic seizure, and conducted in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological and behavioral studies to clarify the pathogenic characteristics and mechanism of GluN2A/GRIN2A-V685G mutation. In addition, the drug efavirenz (EFV), which is used to treat HIV infection, was administrated to mutant animals to assess whether it can restore the loss of function. Results Mutant mice showed no significant change in the mRNA or protein expressions of NMDAR compared with wild type (WT) mice. Mice with GluN2A/GRIN2A-V685G mutation exhibited shorter latency to seizure, increased frequency of seizure-like events, decreased peak current and current area of NMDAR excitatory postsynaptic current, and decreased event frequency of micro-inhibitory postsynaptic current, compared to WT mice. They also exhibited decreased threshold, increased amplitude, increased input resistance, and increased root number of action potential. EFV administration reversed these changes. The loss-of-function (LoF) mutation of NMDAR changed the excitatory/inhibitory balance of neural network, rendering animal more prone to seizures. Discussion EFV was indicated to hold its potential in the treatment of inherited epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Zhong
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guangjian Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chunkui Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shaokuan Fang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Shaokuan Fang,
| | - Ying Ding
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Ying Ding,
| | - Weihong Lin
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Weihong Lin,
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25
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Carnosic Acid Attenuates AβOs-Induced Apoptosis and Synaptic Impairment via Regulating NMDAR2B and Its Downstream Cascades in SH-SY5Y Cells. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:133-144. [PMID: 36224322 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-03032-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal death and synaptic loss are principal pathological features of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Amyloid beta oligomers (AβOs) constitute the main neurotoxin underscoring AD pathology. AβOs interact with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), resulting in neurotoxic events, including activation of apoptosis and synaptic impairment. Carnosic acid (CA), extracted from Salvia rosmarinus, has been verified its neuroprotective effects in AD. However, the precise mechanisms by which CA induces synaptic protection remain unclear. In this study, we established an in vitro AD model using SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. We observed that CA improved neuronal survival by suppressing apoptosis. Moreover, CA restored synaptic impairments by increasing expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), and synaptophysin (Syn). Furthermore, we found these protective effects were dependent on inhibiting the phosphorylation of NMDAR subtype 2B (NMDAR2B), which further suppressed calcium overload and promoted activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) pathway. Administration of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA), an agonist of NMDARs, abolished these effects of CA. Our findings demonstrate that CA exerts neuroprotective effects in an in vitro model of AD by regulating NMDAR2B and its downstream cascades, highlighting the therapeutic potential of CA as a NMDARs-targeted candidate in the treatment of AD.
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Gao F, Wang J, Yang S, Ji M, Zhu G. Fear extinction induced by activation of PKA ameliorates anxiety-like behavior in PTSD mice. Neuropharmacology 2023; 222:109306. [PMID: 36341808 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy aiming to promote fear extinction is a useful treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the mechanisms underlying fear extinction and effective methods used to promote fear extinction in PTSD are still lacking. In this study, we displayed dysfunctions of cyclic adenosine 3,5-monophosphate (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and calcium signaling in peripheral serum of PTSD patients using bioinformatics analysis. Later, we confirmed the dysfunctions of cAMP-PKA, AKT/mTOR and calcium signaling in the hippocampus of PTSD mice. Moreover, the reduction of calpain1 in the hippocampus enhanced fear memory acquisition. Single activation of PKA by systemic application of rolipram (ROL) or meglumine cyclic adenylate (M-cAMP) before re-exposure promoted fear extinction and improved anxiety-like behavior in PTSD mice. Moreover, systemic application of ROL before re-exposure improved hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) signaling and calpain1/AKT/mTOR signaling. Interestingly, the effects of activation of PKA could be partially blocked by TrkB antagonist, ANA-12 and mTOR inhibitor, RAPA. Finally, intranasal administration of ROL could also adjust the abnormality of fear memory and improve anxiety-like behaviors in PTSD mice. Collectively, activation of PKA could promote fear extinction, which correlated with the reduction of anxiety-like behavior. The mechanisms were related to the BDNF/TrkB and calpain1/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways. PKA activation might be a useful complementary therapy for PE in the symptom elimination of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Shaojie Yang
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Manman Ji
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, The Ministry of Education and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology (Brain Diseases), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China.
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He J, Chen K, Sui Y, Yang Q. Effects of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor knockdown and hypoxia/reoxygenation injury on the neuronal proteome and transcriptome. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1004375. [PMID: 36590918 PMCID: PMC9799235 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1004375] [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: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Brain tissue is extremely sensitive to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury, which can easily cause irreversible damage to neurons. H/R injury can induce neuronal apoptosis through glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity. N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is one of the main receptors of excitatory glutamate, and blocking NMDAR protects brain tissue from ischemic and hypoxic injury. However, NMDAR hypofunction can also cause psychotic symptoms or cognitive impairment. There is still a lack of systematic research on the changes in the proteome and transcriptome in neuronal cells under conditions of NMDAR hypofunction and H/R injury. Methods We compared the changes in the proteome, transcriptome and lncRNA expression levels in neurons after NMDAR knockdown and H/R by isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). Results The results showed that the proteins Rps9, Rpl18 and Rpl15 and the lncRNAs XLOC_161072 and XLOC_065271 were significantly downregulated after NMDAR knockdown but upregulated after H/R; in contrast, the mRNAs Bank1 and Pcp4l1 and the lncRNAs XLOC_159404 and XLOC_031922 were significantly upregulated after NMDAR knockdown but downregulated after H/R. Discussion In this study, we demonstrated the characterization of protein, mRNA, and lncRNA expression profiles in neurons following NMDAR knockdown and H/R injury. These molecules are involved in multiple biological functions and signaling pathways, and their roles in neurons lacking NMDAR and subjected to H/R injury deserve further study. Additionally, we found that lncRNAs respond fastest to hypoxic stimulation and that Gapdh is not suitable as a reference protein for NMDAR-reduced neuron-related experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinting He
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Kaili Chen
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yujie Sui
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Medical Research Center, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, Medical Research Center, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China,*Correspondence: Qiwei Yang,
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Ariza-Salamanca DF, Corrales-Hernández MG, Pachón-Londoño MJ, Hernández-Duarte I. Molecular and cellular mechanisms leading to catatonia: an integrative approach from clinical and preclinical evidence. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:993671. [PMID: 36245923 PMCID: PMC9558725 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.993671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review aims to describe the clinical spectrum of catatonia, in order to carefully assess the involvement of astrocytes, neurons, oligodendrocytes, and microglia, and articulate the available preclinical and clinical evidence to achieve a translational understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind this disorder. Catatonia is highly common in psychiatric and acutely ill patients, with prevalence ranging from 7.6% to 38%. It is usually present in different psychiatric conditions such as mood and psychotic disorders; it is also a consequence of folate deficiency, autoimmunity, paraneoplastic disorders, and even autistic spectrum disorders. Few therapeutic options are available due to its complexity and poorly understood physiopathology. We briefly revisit the traditional treatments used in catatonia, such as antipsychotics, electroconvulsive therapy, and benzodiazepines, before assessing novel therapeutics which aim to modulate molecular pathways through different mechanisms, including NMDA antagonism and its allosteric modulation, and anti-inflammatory drugs to modulate microglia reaction and mitigate oxidative stress, such as lithium, vitamin B12, and NMDAr positive allosteric modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Felipe Ariza-Salamanca
- Medical and Health Sciences Education Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Daniel Felipe Ariza-Salamanca
| | - María Gabriela Corrales-Hernández
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - María José Pachón-Londoño
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Isabella Hernández-Duarte
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
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Seillier C, Lesept F, Toutirais O, Potzeha F, Blanc M, Vivien D. Targeting NMDA Receptors at the Neurovascular Unit: Past and Future Treatments for Central Nervous System Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810336. [PMID: 36142247 PMCID: PMC9499580 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The excitatory neurotransmission of the central nervous system (CNS) mainly involves glutamate and its receptors, especially N-methyl-D-Aspartate receptors (NMDARs). These receptors have been extensively described on neurons and, more recently, also on other cell types. Nowadays, the study of their differential expression and function is taking a growing place in preclinical and clinical research. The diversity of NMDAR subtypes and their signaling pathways give rise to pleiotropic functions such as brain development, neuronal plasticity, maturation along with excitotoxicity, blood-brain barrier integrity, and inflammation. NMDARs have thus emerged as key targets for the treatment of neurological disorders. By their large extracellular regions and complex intracellular structures, NMDARs are modulated by a variety of endogenous and pharmacological compounds. Here, we will present an overview of NMDAR functions on neurons and other important cell types involved in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative, neurovascular, mental, autoimmune, and neurodevelopmental diseases. We will then discuss past and future development of NMDAR targeting drugs, including innovative and promising new approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Célia Seillier
- Normandie University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Institute Blood and Brain @Caen-Normandie (BB@C), UMR-S U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), 14000 Caen, France
| | - Flavie Lesept
- Lys Therapeutics, Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Olivier Toutirais
- Normandie University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Institute Blood and Brain @Caen-Normandie (BB@C), UMR-S U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), 14000 Caen, France
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility (HLA), Caen University Hospital, CHU, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Fanny Potzeha
- Lys Therapeutics, Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Manuel Blanc
- Lys Therapeutics, Cyceron, Boulevard Henri Becquerel, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Denis Vivien
- Normandie University, UNICAEN, INSERM, GIP Cyceron, Institute Blood and Brain @Caen-Normandie (BB@C), UMR-S U1237, Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders (PhIND), 14000 Caen, France
- Department of Clinical Research, Caen University Hospital, CHU, 14000 Caen, France
- Correspondence:
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Deutsch SI, Luyo ZNM, Burket JA. Targeted NMDA Receptor Interventions for Autism: Developmentally Determined Expression of GluN2B and GluN2A-Containing Receptors and Balanced Allosteric Modulatory Approaches. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020181. [PMID: 35204682 PMCID: PMC8961601 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Various ASD risk alleles have been associated with impairment of NMDA receptor activation (i.e., NMDA Receptor Hypofunction) and/or disturbance of the careful balance between activation mediated by GluN2B-subtype and GluN2A-subtype-containing NMDA receptors. Importantly, although these various risk alleles affect NMDA receptor activation through different mechanisms, they share the pathogenic consequences of causing disturbance of highly regulated NMDA receptor activation. Disturbances of NMDA receptor activation due to sequence variants, protein termination variants and copy number variants are often cell-specific and regionally selective. Thus, translational therapeutic NMDA receptor agonist interventions, which may require chronic administration, must have specificity, selectivity and facilitate NMDA receptor activation in a manner that is physiologic (i.e., mimicking that of endogenously released glutamate and glycine/D-serine released in response to salient and relevant socio-cognitive provocations within discrete neural circuits). Importantly, knockout mice with absent expression and mice with haploinsufficient expression of the deleterious genes often serve as good models to test the potential efficacy of promising pharmacotherapeutic strategies. The Review considers diverse examples of “illness” genes, their pathogenic effects on NMDA receptor activation and, when available, results of studies of impaired sociability in mouse models, including “proof of principle/proof of concept” experiments exploring NMDA receptor agonist interventions and the development of promising positive allosteric modulators (PAMs), which serve as support and models for developing an inventory of PAMs and negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) for translational therapeutic intervention. Conceivably, selective PAMs and NAMs either alone or in combination will be administered to patients guided by their genotype in order to potentiate and/or restore disrupted balance between activation mediated by GluN2B-subtype and GluN2A-subtype containing NMDA receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen I. Deutsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 825 Fairfax Avenue, Suite 710, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
| | - Zachary N. M. Luyo
- Program in Neuroscience, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA 23606, USA;
| | - Jessica A. Burket
- Program in Neuroscience, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA 23606, USA;
- Department of Molecular Biology & Chemistry, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA 23606, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-757-594-8743
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Wyllie DJA, Bowie D. Ionotropic glutamate receptors: structure, function and dysfunction. J Physiol 2022; 600:175-179. [PMID: 35028955 DOI: 10.1113/jp282389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David J A Wyllie
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Derek Bowie
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Makletsova MG, Rikhireva GT, Kirichenko EY, Trinitatsky IY, Vakulenko MY, Ermakov AM. The Role of Polyamines in the Mechanisms of Cognitive Impairment. NEUROCHEM J+ 2022; 16. [PMCID: PMC9575633 DOI: 10.1134/s1819712422030059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstract—As the population ages, age-related cognitive impairments are becoming an increasingly pressing problem. Currently, the role of polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) in the pathogenesis of cognitive impairments of various origin is actively discussed. It was shown that the content of polyamines in the brain tissue decreases with age. Exogenous administration of polyamines makes it possible to avoid cognitive impairment and/or influence the pathogenetic processes associated with disease progression. There are 3 known ways that polyamines can enter the human body: food, synthesis by intestinal bacteria, and biosynthesis in the body. Currently, one of the most promising approaches to the prevention of cognitive impairment is the use of foods with a high content of polyamines, as well as the use of various probiotics that affect intestinal bacteria that synthesize polyamines. Since 2018, in a number of European countries projects have been launched aimed at evaluation of the impact of a diet high in polyamines on cognitive processes. The review, based on analysis of modern scientific literature and the authors' own data, presents material on the effect of polyamines on cognitive processes and the role of polyamines in the regulation of neurotransmitter processes, and discusses the role of polyamines in cognitive disorders in mental and neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G. T. Rikhireva
- Semenov Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | | | - A. M. Ermakov
- Don State Technical University, Rostov-on-Don, Russia
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