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Pola P, Frezza A, Gavioli EC, Calò G, Ruzza C. Effects of Stress Exposure to Pain Perception in Pre-Clinical Studies: Focus on the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ-NOP Receptor System. Brain Sci 2024; 14:936. [PMID: 39335430 PMCID: PMC11431041 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14090936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Exposure to physical and psychological stress modulates pain transmission in a dual manner. Stress-induced analgesia (SIA) refers to the reduction in pain sensitivity that can occur in response to acute stress. On the contrary, chronic stress exposure may lead to a phenomenon named stress-induced hyperalgesia (SIH). SIH is a clinically relevant phenomenon since it has been well documented that physical and psychological stress exacerbates pain in patients with several chronic pain syndromes, including migraine. The availability of animal models of SIA and SIH is of high importance for understanding the biological mechanisms leading to these phenomena and for the identification of pharmacological targets useful to alleviate the burden of stress-exacerbated chronic pain. Among these targets, the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ)-N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor system has been identified as a key modulator of both pain transmission and stress susceptibility. This review describes first the experimental approaches to induce SIA and SIH in rodents. The second part of the manuscript summarizes the scientific evidence that suggests the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system as a player in the stress-pain interaction and candidates NOP antagonists as useful drugs to mitigate the detrimental effects of stress exposure on pain perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Pola
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessia Frezza
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-900, Brazil
| | - Girolamo Calò
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Technopole of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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2
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Bossert JM, Caldwell KE, Korah H, Batista A, Bonbrest H, Fredriksson I, Jackson SN, Sulima A, Rice KC, Zaveri NT, Shaham Y. Effect of chronic delivery of the NOP/MOR partial agonist AT-201 and NOP antagonist J-113397 on heroin relapse in a rat model of opioid maintenance. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06678-7. [PMID: 39269500 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06678-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE The opioid crisis persists despite availability of effective opioid agonist maintenance treatments (methadone and buprenorphine). Thus, there is a need to advance novel medications for the treatment of opioid use and relapse. OBJECTIVES We recently modeled maintenance treatment in rats and found that chronic delivery of buprenorphine and the mu opioid receptor (MOR) partial agonist TRV130 decreases relapse to oxycodone seeking and taking. In contrast, chronic delivery of the buprenorphine analog BU08028 had mixed effects on different heroin relapse-related measures. Here, we tested the effect of the mixed nociceptin (NOP) receptor/MOR partial agonist AT-201 and the NOP receptor antagonist J-113397 on different heroin relapse-related measures. METHODS We trained male and female rats to self-administer heroin (6-h/d, 14-d) in context A and then implanted osmotic minipumps containing AT-201 (0, 3.8, or 12 mg/kg/d) or J-113397 (0, 12.6, or 40 mg/kg/d). Next, we tested the effect of chronic delivery of the compounds on (1) incubation of heroin seeking in a non-drug context B, (2) extinction responding reinforced by heroin-associated discrete cues in context B, (3) context A-induced reinstatement of heroin seeking, and (4) reacquisition of heroin self-administration in context A. RESULTS In females, AT-201 modestly increased reacquisition of heroin self-administration and J-113397 modestly decreased incubation of heroin seeking. The compounds had no effect on the other relapse-related measures in females, and no effect on any of the measures in males. CONCLUSION The NOP/MOR partial agonist AT-201 and the NOP antagonist J-113397 did not mimic buprenorphine's inhibitory effects on relapse in a rat model of opioid maintenance treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kiera E Caldwell
- Behavioral Neuroscience Branch, IRP/NIDA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
| | - Hannah Korah
- Behavioral Neuroscience Branch, IRP/NIDA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
| | - Ashley Batista
- Behavioral Neuroscience Branch, IRP/NIDA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
| | - Hannah Bonbrest
- Behavioral Neuroscience Branch, IRP/NIDA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
| | - Ida Fredriksson
- Behavioral Neuroscience Branch, IRP/NIDA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
| | | | - Agnieszka Sulima
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, IRP/NIDA, NIAAA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
| | - Kenner C Rice
- Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, IRP/NIDA, NIAAA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
| | | | - Yavin Shaham
- Behavioral Neuroscience Branch, IRP/NIDA/NIH, Baltimore, MD, U.S.A
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Ciancetta A, Malfacini D, Gozzi M, Marzola E, Camilotto R, Calò G, Guerrini R. A Multi-Angle Approach to Predict Peptide-GPCR Complexes: The N/OFQ-NOP System as a Successful AlphaFold Application Case Study. J Chem Inf Model 2024. [PMID: 39137328 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.4c00499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
With nearly 700 structures solved and a growing number of customized structure prediction algorithms being developed at a fast pace, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are an optimal test case for validating new approaches for the prediction of receptor active state and ligand bioactive conformation complexes. In this study, we leveraged the availability of hundreds of peptide GPCRs in the active state and both classical homology and artificial intelligence (AI) based protein modeling combined with docking and AI-based peptide structure prediction approaches to predict the nociceptin/orphanin FQ-NOP receptor active state complex (N/OFQ-NOPa). The In Silico generated hypotheses were validated via the design, synthesis, and pharmacological characterization of novel linear N/OFQ(1-13)-NH2 analogues, leading to the discovery of a novel antagonist (3B; pKB = 6.63) bearing a single ring-constrained residue in place of the Gly2-Gly3 motif of the N/OFQ message sequence (FGGF). While the experimental validation was ongoing, the availability of the Cryo-EM structure of the predicted complex enabled us to unambiguously validate the generated hypotheses. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of a peptide-GPCR complex predicted with atomistic accuracy (full complex Cα RMSD < 1.0 Å) and of the N/OFQ message moiety being successfully modified with a rigid scaffold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Ciancetta
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Matteo Gozzi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erika Marzola
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Camilotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Girolamo Calò
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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Han Y, Chen S, Yang Q, Xie M, Liang Y, Li J, Zhang LZ. Non-peptide orphanin receptor antagonist activity in rat myocardial ischemia-induced cardiac arrhythmias. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 685:149160. [PMID: 37922788 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.149160] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
One of the causes of sudden cardiac death is arrhythmia after acute myocardial ischemia. After ischemia, endogenous orphanin (N/OFQ) plays a role in the development of arrhythmias. It is discussed in this paper how nonpeptide orphanin receptor (ORL1) antagonists such as J-113397, SB-612111 and compound-24 (C-24) affect arrhythmia in rats following acute myocardial ischemia and what the optimal concentrations for these antagonists are. The electrocardiogram of the rat was recorded as part of the experiment. The concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in the myocardium were measured following euthanasia. Following the use of three antagonists, we found the lowest inflammatory factor concentrations and the smallest number of ischemic arrhythmia episodes. All of them had a small impact on cardiac function. LF/HF values were significantly reduced in all three antagonist groups, suggesting that they are involved in the regulation of sympathetic nerves. In conclusion, pretreatment with the three antagonist groups can effectively reduce the concentration of TNF-α and IL-1β, and the occurrence of arrhythmias after ischemia can also be significantly reduced. Inflammation and sympathetic activity may be related to the mechanism of action of antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030000, China; College of Anesthesiology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030000, China.
| | - Sikun Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Linfen People's Hospital, Linfen, 041000, China
| | - Qixing Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Linfen People's Hospital, Linfen, 041000, China
| | - Mengli Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xi 'an Honghui Hospital, Xian, 710000, China
| | - Yuzhang Liang
- School of Physics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Endocrine, Central Hospital of China Railway 12th Bureau Group, 182 Yingze Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Lin-Zhong Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030000, China; College of Anesthesiology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030000, China
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Bird MF, Hebbes CP, Tamang A, Willets JM, Thompson JP, Guerrini R, Calo G, Lambert DG. In vitro sepsis up-regulates Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ receptor expression and function on human T- but not B-cells. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2298-2314. [PMID: 37021779 PMCID: PMC10953342 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16088] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE In animal models of sepsis, increased activation of the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor NOP is associated with mortality and NOP antagonists improved survival. We have explored the role of the N/OFQ-NOP system in freshly isolated volunteer human B- and T-cells incubated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and peptidoglycan G (PepG) as a model of in vitro sepsis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH B- and T-cell NOP expression was measured using the NOP fluorescent probe N/OFQATTO594 , N/OFQ content was measured using immunofluorescence, N/OFQ release was tracked using a CHOhNOPGαiq5 biosensor assay and NOP function was measured using transwell migration and cytokine/chemokine release using a 25-plex assay format. Cells were challenged with LPS/PepG. KEY RESULTS CD19-positive B-cells bound N/OFQATTO594 ; they also contain N/OFQ. Stimulation with CXCL13/IL-4 increased N/OFQ release. N/OFQ trended to reduced migration to CXCL13/IL-4. Surface NOP expression was unaffected by LPS/PepG, but this treatment increased GM-CSF release in an N/OFQ sensitive manner. CD3-positive T-cells did not bind N/OFQATTO594 ; they did contain N/OFQ. Stimulation with CXCL12/IL-6 increased N/OFQ release. When incubated with LPS/PepG, NOP surface expression was induced leading to N/OFQATTO594 binding. In LPS/PepG-treated cells, N/OFQ reduced migration to CXCL12/IL-6. LPS/PepG increased GM-CSF release in an N/OFQ sensitive manner. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We suggest both a constitutive and sepsis-inducible N/OFQ-NOP receptor autocrine regulation of B- and T-cell function, respectively. These NOP receptors variably inhibit migration and reduce GM-CSF release. These data provide mechanistic insights to the detrimental role for increased N/OFQ signalling in sepsis and suggest a potential role for NOP antagonists as treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark F. Bird
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain ManagementUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | - Christopher P. Hebbes
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain ManagementUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | | | | | - Jonathan P. Thompson
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain ManagementUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of FerraraFerraraItaly
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological SciencesUniversity of PadovaPaduaItaly
| | - David G. Lambert
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain ManagementUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
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Flickinger KM, Wilson KM, Rossiter NJ, Hunger AL, Lee TD, Hall MD, Cantor JR. Conditional lethality profiling reveals anticancer mechanisms of action and drug-nutrient interactions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.04.543621. [PMID: 37333068 PMCID: PMC10274668 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.04.543621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Chemical screening studies have identified drug sensitivities across hundreds of cancer cell lines but most putative therapeutics fail to translate. Discovery and development of drug candidates in models that more accurately reflect nutrient availability in human biofluids may help in addressing this major challenge. Here we performed high-throughput screens in conventional versus Human Plasma-Like Medium (HPLM). Sets of conditional anticancer compounds span phases of clinical development and include non-oncology drugs. Among these, we characterize a unique dual-mechanism of action for brivudine, an agent otherwise approved for antiviral treatment. Using an integrative approach, we find that brivudine affects two independent targets in folate metabolism. We also traced conditional phenotypes for several drugs to the availability of nucleotide salvage pathway substrates and verified others for compounds that seemingly elicit off-target anticancer effects. Our findings establish generalizable strategies for exploiting conditional lethality in HPLM to reveal therapeutic candidates and mechanisms of action.
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Giakomidi D, Khemiri S, Mahbuba W, McVey DG, Al-Janabi F, Guerrini R, Calo G, Ye S, Lambert DG. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ receptor expression in primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells is not regulated by exposure to breast cancer cell media or angiogenic stimuli. BJA OPEN 2022; 4:100110. [PMID: 37588788 PMCID: PMC10430811 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjao.2022.100110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Opioid receptors are naloxone-sensitive (MOP [mu: μ], DOP [delta: δ], and KOP [kappa: κ]) and naloxone-insensitive Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide receptor (NOP). Clinically, most opioid analgesics target MOP. Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels and involves endothelial cell activation, proliferation, and migration. The effect of opioids on this process is controversial with no data for NOP receptor ligands. Methods We used patient-derived human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with media from the Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) breast cancer cells or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; 10 ng ml-1) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF; 10 ng ml-1) as angiogenic stimuli. We have measured (i) NOP/MOP messenger RNA, (ii) receptor protein using N/OFQATTO594 and DermorphinATTO488 as fluorescent probes for NOP and MOP, and (iii) NOP/MOP function in a wound healing assay (crude measure of migration that occurs during angiogenesis). Results HUVEC lines from 32 patients were used. Using all 32 lines, mRNA for NOP but not MOP was detected. This was unaffected by media from MCF-7 cells or VEGF/FGF. There was no binding of either N/OFQATTO594(NOP) or DermorphinATTO488(MOP) in the absence or presence of angiogenic stimuli (six lines tested). In the absence of MOP mRNA, this was expected. Whilst MCF-7 conditioned medium (not VEGF/FGF) reduced wound healing per se (14 lines tested), there was no effect of N/OFQ (NOP ligand) or morphine (MOP ligand). Conclusions Media from MCF-7 breast cancer cells or VEGF/FGF as angiogenic stimuli did not influence NOP translation into receptor protein. MOP was absent. In the absence of constitutive or inducible MOP/NOP, there was no effect on wound healing as a measure of angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despina Giakomidi
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Hodgkin Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Sonja Khemiri
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Hodgkin Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Wadhah Mahbuba
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Hodgkin Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - David G. McVey
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences and NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Fatin Al-Janabi
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences and NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Shu Ye
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences and NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - David G. Lambert
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Hodgkin Building, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Caminski ES, Antunes FTT, Souza IA, Dallegrave E, Zamponi GW. Regulation of N-type calcium channels by nociceptin receptors and its possible role in neurological disorders. Mol Brain 2022; 15:95. [PMID: 36434658 PMCID: PMC9700961 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-022-00982-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of nociceptin opioid peptide receptors (NOP, a.k.a. opioid-like receptor-1, ORL-1) by the ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ, leads to G protein-dependent regulation of Cav2.2 (N-type) voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). This typically causes a reduction in calcium currents, triggering changes in presynaptic calcium levels and thus neurotransmission. Because of the widespread expression patterns of NOP and VGCCs across multiple brain regions, the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, and the dorsal root ganglia, this results in the alteration of numerous neurophysiological features. Here we review the regulation of N-type calcium channels by the NOP-nociceptin system in the context of neurological conditions such as anxiety, addiction, and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuelle Sistherenn Caminski
- grid.412344.40000 0004 0444 6202Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Laboratory of Research in Toxicology (LAPETOX), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS Brazil
| | - Flavia Tasmin Techera Antunes
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Ivana Assis Souza
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Eliane Dallegrave
- grid.412344.40000 0004 0444 6202Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Laboratory of Research in Toxicology (LAPETOX), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS Brazil
| | - Gerald W. Zamponi
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
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In vitro sepsis induces Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ receptor (NOP) expression in primary human vascular endothelial but not smooth muscle cells. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274080. [PMID: 36107872 PMCID: PMC9477356 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is a dysregulated host response to infection that can cause widespread effects on other organs including cardiovascular depression, hypotension and organ failure. The receptor for Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), NOP is expressed on immune cells and these cells can release the peptide. Exogenous N/OFQ can dilate blood vessels and this peptide is increased in animal and human sepsis. We hypothesise that NOP receptors are present on vascular endothelial cells and therefore provide the target for released N/OFQ to cause vasodilation and hence hypotension. Using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and human vascular smooth muscle cells (HVSMC) freshly prepared from umbilical cords and up to passage 4, we assessed NOP mRNA expression by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), NOP surface receptor expression using a fluorescent NOP selective probe (N/OFQATTO594) and NOP receptor function with N/OFQ stimulated ERK1/2 phosphorylation. As an in vitro sepsis mimic we variably incubated cells with 100ng/ml Lipopolysaccharide and Peptidoglycan G (LPS/PepG). HUVECs express NOP mRNA and this was reduced by ~80% (n = 49) after 24–48 hours treatment with LPS/PepG. Untreated cells do not express surface NOP receptors but when treated with LPS/PepG the reduced mRNA was translated into protein visualised by N/OFQATTO594 binding (n = 49). These NOP receptors in treated cells produced an N/OFQ (1μM) driven increase in ERK1/2 phosphorylation (n = 20). One (of 50) HUVEC lines expressed NOP mRNA and receptor protein in the absence of LPS/PepG treatment. In contrast, HVSMC expressed NOP mRNA and surface receptor protein (n = 10) independently of LPS/PepG treatment. These receptors were also coupled to ERK1/2 where N/OFQ (1μM) increased phosphorylation. Collectively these data show that an in vitro sepsis mimic (LPS/PepG) upregulates functional NOP expression in the vascular endothelium. Activation of these endothelial receptors as suggested from in vivo whole animal work may contribute to the hypotensive response seen in sepsis. Moreover, blockade of these receptors might be a useful adjunct in the treatment of sepsis.
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Coluzzi F, Rullo L, Scerpa MS, Losapio LM, Rocco M, Billeci D, Candeletti S, Romualdi P. Current and Future Therapeutic Options in Pain Management: Multi-mechanistic Opioids Involving Both MOR and NOP Receptor Activation. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:617-632. [PMID: 35616826 PMCID: PMC9166888 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00924-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Opioids are widely used in chronic pain management, despite major concerns about their risk of adverse events, particularly abuse, misuse, and respiratory depression from overdose. Multi-mechanistic opioids, such as tapentadol and buprenorphine, have been widely studied as a valid alternative to traditional opioids for their safer profile. Special interest was focused on the role of the nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor in terms of analgesia and improved tolerability. Nociceptin opioid peptide receptor agonists were shown to reinforce the antinociceptive effect of mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonists and modulate some of their adverse effects. Therefore, multi-mechanistic opioids involving both MOR and NOP receptor activation became a major field of pharmaceutical and clinical investigations. Buprenorphine was re-discovered in a new perspective, as an atypical analgesic and as a substitution therapy for opioid use disorders; and buprenorphine derivatives have been tested in animal models of nociceptive and neuropathic pain. Similarly, cebranopadol, a full MOR/NOP receptor agonist, has been clinically evaluated for its potent analgesic efficacy and better tolerability profile, compared with traditional opioids. This review overviews pharmacological mechanisms of the NOP receptor system, including its role in pain management and in the development of opioid tolerance. Clinical data on buprenorphine suggest its role as a safer alternative to traditional opioids, particularly in patients with non-cancer pain; while data on cebranopadol still require phase III study results to approve its introduction on the market. Other bifunctional MOR/NOP receptor ligands, such as BU08028, BU10038, and AT-121, are currently under pharmacological investigations and could represent promising analgesic agents for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Coluzzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
- Unit Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rullo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Maria Sole Scerpa
- Unit Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Maria Losapio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Monica Rocco
- Department of Surgical and Medical Science and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Sanzio Candeletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Romualdi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Irnerio 48, Bologna, 40126, Italy
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Bird MF, Hebbes CP, Scott SWM, Willets J, Thompson JP, Lambert DG. A novel bioassay to detect Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ release from single human polymorphonuclear cells. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268868. [PMID: 35622823 PMCID: PMC9140256 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is the endogenous opioid agonist for the N/OFQ receptor or NOP. This receptor system is involved in pain processing but also has a role in immune regulation. Indeed, polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) express mRNA for N/OFQ precursor and are a potential source for circulating N/OFQ. Current measurements are based on ELISA and RIA techniques. In this study we have designed a bioassay to measure N/OFQ release from single PMNs. Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells transfected with the human (h) NOP receptor and Gαiq5 chimera force receptor coupling in biosensor cells to increase intracellular Ca2+; this can be measured with FLUO-4 dye. If isolated PMNs from healthy human volunteers are layered next to CHOhNOPGαiq5 biosensor cells then stimulated with the chemoattractant N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) we hypothesise that released N/OFQ will activate the biosensor. PMNs also release ATP and CHO cells express purinergic receptors coupled to elevated Ca2+. In a system where these receptors (P2Y1, P2Y2 and P2X7) are blocked with high concentrations of PPADS and oATP, PMN stimulation with fMLP increases Ca2+ in PMNs then shortly afterwards the biosensor cells. Our data therfore reports detection of single cell N/OFQ release from immune cells. This was absent when cells were preincubated with the selective NOP antagonist; SB-612111. Collectively this is the first description of single cell N/OFQ release. We will deploy this assay with further purified individual cell types and use this to further study the role of the N/OFQ-NOP system in disease; in particular sepsis where there is strong evidence for increased levels of N/OFQ worsening outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. F. Bird
- Departments of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - C. P. Hebbes
- Departments of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - S. W. M. Scott
- Departments of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - J. Willets
- Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester United Kingdom
| | - J. P. Thompson
- Departments of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - D. G. Lambert
- Departments of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester, United Kingdom
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12
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Ruiz‐Quiñonez AK, Espinosa‐Riquer ZP, Carranza‐Aguilar CJ, Browne T, Cruz SL. Co-administration of morphine and levamisole increases death risk, produces neutropenia and modifies antinociception in mice. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13166. [PMID: 35470549 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13166] [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: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Levamisole is a veterinary anthelmintic drug and a common adulterant of misused drugs. This study analyses the lethal, antinociceptive and haematological effects produced by acute or repeated levamisole administration by itself or combined with morphine. Independent groups of male Swiss Webster mice were i.p. injected with 100 mg/kg morphine, 31.6 mg/kg levamisole (lethal doses at 10%, LD10 ) or the same doses combined. Naloxone pretreatment (10 mg/kg, i.p.) prevented morphine-induced death, as did 2.5 mg/kg, i.p. mecamylamine with levamisole. Co-administration of levamisole and morphine (Lvm + Mor) increased lethality from 10% to 80%. This augmented effect was prevented by 30 mg/kg, i.p. naloxone and reduced with 10 mg/kg naloxone plus 2.5 mg/kg, i.p. mecamylamine. In independent groups of mice, 17.7 mg/kg, i.p. levamisole antagonized the acute morphine's antinociceptive effect evaluated in the tail-flick test. Repeated 17.7 mg/kg levamisole administration (2×/day/3 weeks) did not affect tolerance development to morphine (10 mg/kg, 3×/day/1 week). Blood samples obtained from mice repeatedly treated with levamisole showed leukopenia and neutropenia. Morphine also produced neutropenia, increased erythrocyte count and other related parameters (e.g. haemoglobin). Lvm + Mor had similar effects on leukocyte and neutrophil counts to those seen with levamisole only, but no erythrocyte-related alterations were evident. Blood chemistry analysis did not indicate liver damage but suggested some degree of electrolyte balance impairment. In conclusion, Lvm + Mor increased death risk, altered morphine-induced antinociceptive effects and produced haematologic abnormalities. The importance of studying combinations of drugs of abuse lies in the fact that drug users frequently combine drugs, which are commonly adulterated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana K. Ruiz‐Quiñonez
- Departamento de Farmacobiología Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav, IPN) Mexico City Mexico
| | - Zyanya P. Espinosa‐Riquer
- Departamento de Farmacobiología Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav, IPN) Mexico City Mexico
| | - César J. Carranza‐Aguilar
- Departamento de Farmacobiología Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav, IPN) Mexico City Mexico
| | - Thom Browne
- Colombo Plan Secretariat Drug Advisory Program Colombo Sri Lanka
| | - Silvia L. Cruz
- Departamento de Farmacobiología Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav, IPN) Mexico City Mexico
- Faculty of Medicine National Autonomous University of Mexico Mexico City Mexico
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13
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Moerke MJ, Negus SS, Banks ML. Lack of effect of the nociceptin opioid peptide agonist Ro 64-6198 on pain-depressed behavior and heroin choice in rats. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 231:109255. [PMID: 34998256 PMCID: PMC8810604 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE One objective of the National Institutes of Health Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) initiative is to accelerate research on safer and more effective medications for both pain and opioid use disorder. Ligands that activate the nociceptin opioid peptide receptor (NOP) constitute one class of candidate drugs for both applications. The present preclinical study determined the effectiveness of the NOP agonist Ro 64-6198 to produce antinociception in a pain-depressed behavior procedure and attenuate opioid self-administration in a heroin-vs-food choice procedure. METHODS In Experiment 1, Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were equipped with microelectrodes and trained to respond for electrical brain stimulation in an intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) procedure. The potency, time course, and receptor mechanism of effects produced by R0 64-6198 alone (0.32-3.2 mg/kg) on ICSS were examined, followed by evaluation of 0.32-1.0 mg/kg Ro 64-6198 effectiveness to block lactic acid-induced depression of ICSS. In Experiment 2, rats self-administered heroin under a heroin-vs-food choice procedure during a regimen of repeated, daily intraperitoneal administration of vehicle or Ro 64-6198 (1-3.2 mg/kg/day). RESULTS Ro 64-6198 produced dose- and time-dependent ICSS depression that was blocked by the selective NOP antagonist SB612111 but not by naltrexone. Ro 64-6198 failed to block acid-induced depression of ICSS. Repeated Ro 64-6198 pretreatment also failed to attenuate heroin-vs-food choice up to doses that significantly decreased operant behavior. CONCLUSIONS These results do not support the utility of Ro 64-6198 as a stand-alone medication for either acute pain or opioid use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Jo Moerke
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - S Stevens Negus
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Matthew L Banks
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
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14
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Santos JLS, Bezerra KS, Barbosa ED, Pereira ACL, Meurer YSR, Oliveira JIN, Gavioli EC, Fulco UL. In silico analysis of energy interactions between nociceptin/orfanin FQ receptor and two antagonists with potential antidepressive action. NEW J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2nj00916a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study addresses the binding energies of NOPR-ligand complexes and presents the main amino acid residues involved in the interaction between these complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. L. S. Santos
- Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Natal-RN, Brazil
| | - K. S. Bezerra
- Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Natal-RN, Brazil
| | - E. D. Barbosa
- Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Natal-RN, Brazil
| | - A. C. L. Pereira
- Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Natal-RN, Brazil
| | - Y. S. R. Meurer
- Departamento de Psicologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, 58051-900, João Pessoa-PB, Brazil
| | - J. I. N. Oliveira
- Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Natal-RN, Brazil
| | - E. C. Gavioli
- Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Natal-RN, Brazil
| | - U. L. Fulco
- Departamento de Biofísica e Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Natal-RN, Brazil
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15
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Toll L, Cippitelli A, Ozawa A. The NOP Receptor System in Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders: Discrepancies, Peculiarities and Clinical Progress in Developing Targeted Therapies. CNS Drugs 2021; 35:591-607. [PMID: 34057709 PMCID: PMC8279133 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-021-00821-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor and its endogenous ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) are the fourth members of the opioid receptor and opioid peptide families. Although they have considerable sequence homology to the other family members, they are not considered opioid per se because they do not have pharmacological profiles similar to the other family members. The number of NOP receptors in the brain is higher than the other family members, and NOP receptors can be found throughout the brain. Because of the widespread distribution of NOP receptors, N/OFQ and other peptide and small molecule agonists and antagonists have extensive CNS activities. Originally thought to be anti-opioid, NOP receptor agonists block some opioid activities, potentiate others, and modulate other activities not affected by traditional opiates. Because the effect of receptor activation can be dependent upon site of administration, state of the animal, and other variables, the study of NOP receptors has been fraught with contradictions and inconsistencies. In this article, the actions and controversies pertaining to NOP receptor activation and inhibition are discussed with respect to CNS disorders including pain (acute, chronic, and migraine), drug abuse, anxiety and depression. In addition, progress towards clinical use of NOP receptor-directed compounds is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
| | - Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
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16
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Dumitrascuta M, Bermudez M, Trovato O, De Neve J, Ballet S, Wolber G, Spetea M. Antinociceptive Efficacy of the µ-Opioid/Nociceptin Peptide-Based Hybrid KGNOP1 in Inflammatory Pain without Rewarding Effects in Mice: An Experimental Assessment and Molecular Docking. Molecules 2021; 26:3267. [PMID: 34071603 PMCID: PMC8198056 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioids are the most effective analgesics, with most clinically available opioids being agonists to the µ-opioid receptor (MOR). The MOR is also responsible for their unwanted effects, including reward and opioid misuse leading to the current public health crisis. The imperative need for safer, non-addictive pain therapies drives the search for novel leads and new treatment strategies. In this study, the recently discovered MOR/nociceptin (NOP) receptor peptide hybrid KGNOP1 (H-Dmt-D-Arg-Aba-β-Ala-Arg-Tyr-Tyr-Arg-Ile-Lys-NH2) was evaluated following subcutaneous administration in mouse models of acute (formalin test) and chronic inflammatory pain (Complete Freund's adjuvant-induced paw hyperalgesia), liabilities of spontaneous locomotion, conditioned place preference, and the withdrawal syndrome. KGNOP1 demonstrated dose-dependent antinociceptive effects in the formalin test, and efficacy in attenuating thermal hyperalgesia with prolonged duration of action. Antinociceptive effects of KGNOP1 were reversed by naltrexone and SB-612111, indicating the involvement of both MOR and NOP receptor agonism. In comparison with morphine, KGNOP1 was more potent and effective in mouse models of inflammatory pain. Unlike morphine, KGNOP1 displayed reduced detrimental liabilities, as no locomotor impairment nor rewarding and withdrawal effects were observed. Docking of KGNOP1 to the MOR and NOP receptors and subsequent 3D interaction pattern analyses provided valuable insights into its binding mode. The mixed MOR/NOP receptor peptide KGNOP1 holds promise in the effort to develop new analgesics for the treatment of various pain states with fewer MOR-mediated side effects, particularly abuse and dependence liabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dumitrascuta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80-82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.D.); (O.T.)
| | - Marcel Bermudez
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, D-14195 Berlin, Germany; (M.B.); (G.W.)
| | - Olga Trovato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80-82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.D.); (O.T.)
| | - Jolien De Neve
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium; (J.D.N.); (S.B.)
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium; (J.D.N.); (S.B.)
| | - Gerhard Wolber
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Königin-Luise-Str. 2+4, D-14195 Berlin, Germany; (M.B.); (G.W.)
| | - Mariana Spetea
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80-82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.D.); (O.T.)
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17
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Pacifico S, Ferrari F, Albanese V, Marzola E, Neto JA, Ruzza C, Calò G, Preti D, Guerrini R. Biased Agonism at Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Receptors: A Structure Activity Study on N/OFQ(1-13)-NH 2. J Med Chem 2020; 63:10782-10795. [PMID: 32901477 PMCID: PMC8011926 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b02057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) controls different biological functions via selective stimulation of the N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor. The pleiotropic actions of N/OFQ may limit the development of NOP ligands as innovative drugs in different therapeutic areas. The pharmacological concept of functional selectivity (aka biased agonism) might be useful for amplifying beneficial actions and/or counteracting side effects. Thus, molecules with large bias factors toward G protein or β arrestin are required for investigating the translational value of NOP biased modulation. Herein, the biased behavior of a heterogeneous library of NOP-targeting peptide derivatives was evaluated in vitro with the aim to provide possible insights into the structural determinants that govern the selective activation of G protein versus β-arrestin. Our results demonstrate that lipidation of N/OFQ(1-13)-NH2 is a useful strategy for obtaining G protein biased agonists for the NOP receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Pacifico
- Department
of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Ferrari
- Department
of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Albanese
- Department
of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erika Marzola
- Department
of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Joaquim Azevedo Neto
- Department
of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department
of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- LTTA
Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Technopole
of Ferrara, Via Fossato
di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Girolamo Calò
- Department
of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17/19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Delia Preti
- Department
of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department
of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- LTTA
Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Technopole
of Ferrara, Via Fossato
di Mortara 70, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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18
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Asth L, Tiago PRF, Costa LRF, Holanda VAD, Pacifico S, Zaveri NT, Calo' G, Ruzza C, Gavioli EC. Effects of non-peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor ligands on methylphenidate-induced hyperactivity in mice: Implications for bipolar disorders. Neuropeptides 2020; 82:102059. [PMID: 32600667 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2020.102059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric pathology characterized by biphasic mood episodes of mania or hypomania and depression. The pharmacotherapy of bipolar disorder has significant adverse effects impairing treatment adherence and patient quality of life. The N/OFQ-NOP receptor system has been widely implicated with mood disorders. Clinical and preclinical findings suggest antidepressants actions for NOP antagonists. More recently, the administration of NOP agonists has shown to promote depressant states. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of non-peptide NOP ligands in methylphenidate-induced manic-like behavior in mice. The NOP agonist Ro 65-6570 (0.01-1 mg/kg, ip), at the higher dose, did not affect spontaneous locomotion per se, but prevented the methylphenidate (10 mg/kg, sc)-induced hyperlocomotion. The NOP partial agonist AT-090 (0.001-0.03 mg/kg, ip) and the NOP antagonist SB-612111 (1-10 mg/kg, ip) did not significantly affect the psychostimulant-induced hyperactivity. Experiments performed with mice lacking the NOP receptor (NOP(-/-)) demonstrated that the treatment with methylphenidate induced similar hyperlocomotion in NOP(-/-) and NOP(+/+) mice. In conclusion, these findings suggest a potential role for NOP agonists in the prevention of manic states, especially by counteracting the hyperactivity symptom of bipolar patients. However, more studies are necessary in order to evaluate these compounds in other features of bipolar disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Asth
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Pamella R F Tiago
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Layse R F Costa
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Victor A D Holanda
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC., 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil.
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19
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Ferrari F, Rizzo S, Ruzza C, Calo G. Detailed In Vitro Pharmacological Characterization of the Clinically Viable Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Peptide Receptor Antagonist BTRX-246040. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2020; 373:34-43. [PMID: 31937563 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.262865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is the natural ligand of the N/OFQ receptor (NOP), which is widely expressed in the central and peripheral nervous system. Selective NOP antagonists are worthy of testing as innovative drugs to treat depression, Parkinson disease, and drug abuse. The aim of this study was to perform a detailed in vitro characterization of BTRX-246040 (also known as LY2940094, [2-[4-[(2-chloro-4,4-difluoro-spiro[5H-thieno[2,3-c]pyran-7,4'-piperidine]-1'-yl)methyl]-3-methyl-pyrazol-1-yl]-3-pyridyl]methanol), a novel NOP antagonist that has been already studied in humans. BTRX-246040 has been tested in vitro in the following assays: calcium mobilization in cells expressing NOP and classic opioid receptors and chimeric G proteins, bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assay measuring NOP interaction with G proteins and β-arrestins, the label-free dynamic mass redistribution assay, and the electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens. BTRX-246040 was systematically compared with the standard NOP antagonist SB-612111. In all assays, BTRX-246040 behaves as a pure and selective antagonist at human recombinant and murine native NOP receptors displaying 3-10-fold higher potency than the standard antagonist SB-612111. BTRX-246040 is an essential pharmacological tool to further investigate the therapeutic potential of NOP antagonists in preclinical and clinical studies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: NOP antagonists may be innovative antidepressant drugs. In this research, the novel clinically viable NOP antagonist BTRX-246040 has been deeply characterized in vitro in a panel of assays. BTRX-246040 resulted a pure, potent, and selective NOP antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Ferrari
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (F.F., S.R., C.R., G.C.) and Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy (C.R.)
| | - Sabrina Rizzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (F.F., S.R., C.R., G.C.) and Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy (C.R.)
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (F.F., S.R., C.R., G.C.) and Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy (C.R.)
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (F.F., S.R., C.R., G.C.) and Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy (C.R.)
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20
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Mercatelli D, Bezard E, Eleopra R, Zaveri NT, Morari M. Managing Parkinson's disease: moving ON with NOP. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:28-47. [PMID: 31648371 PMCID: PMC6976791 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The opioid-like neuropeptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor (NOP receptor) contribute to Parkinson's disease (PD) and motor complications associated with levodopa therapy. The N/OFQ-NOP receptor system is expressed in cortical and subcortical motor areas and, notably, in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra compacta. Dopamine depletion, as in rodent models of PD results in up-regulation of N/OFQ transmission in the substantia nigra and down-regulation of N/OFQ transmission in the striatum. Consistent with this, NOP receptor antagonists relieve motor deficits in PD models by reinstating the physiological balance between excitatory and inhibitory inputs impinging on nigro-thalamic GABAergic neurons. NOP receptor antagonists also counteract the degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons, possibly by attenuating the excitotoxicity or modulating the immune response. Conversely, NOP receptor agonists attenuate levodopa-induced dyskinesia by attenuating the hyperactivation of striatal D1 receptor signalling in neurons of the direct striatonigral pathway. The N/OFQ-NOP receptor system might represent a novel target in the therapy of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Mercatelli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of PharmacologyUniversity of Ferrara and National Institute of NeuroscienceFerraraItaly
| | - Erwan Bezard
- Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293Université de BordeauxBordeauxFrance
- Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 5293BordeauxFrance
| | - Roberto Eleopra
- Neurology Unit 1Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo BestaMilanItaly
| | - Nurulain T. Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, Medicinal Chemistry DivisionMountain ViewCaliforniaUSA
| | - Michele Morari
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of PharmacologyUniversity of Ferrara and National Institute of NeuroscienceFerraraItaly
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21
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Holanda VAD, Pacifico S, Azevedo Neto J, Finetti L, Lobão-Soares B, Calo G, Gavioli EC, Ruzza C. Modulation of the NOP receptor signaling affects resilience to acute stress. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1540-1549. [PMID: 31337258 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119864942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor (NOP) are implicated in the modulation of emotional states. Previous human and rodent findings support NOP antagonists as antidepressants. However, the role played by the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in resilience to stress is unclear. AIMS The present study investigated the effects of activation or blockade of NOP receptor signaling before exposure to acute stress. METHODS The behavioral effects of the administration before stress of the NOP agonists Ro 65-6570 (0.01-1 mg/kg) and MCOPPB (0.1-10 mg/kg), and the NOP antagonist SB-612111 (1-10 mg/kg) were assessed in mice exposed to inescapable electric footshock and forced swim as stressors. The behavioral phenotype of mice lacking the NOP receptor (NOP(-/-)) exposed to inescapable electric footshock was also investigated. RESULTS The activation of NOP receptor signaling with the agonists increased the percentage of mice developing helpless behavior and facilitated immobile posture. In contrast, the blockade of NOP receptor reduced the acquisition of depressive-like phenotypes, and similar resistance to develop helpless behaviors was observed in NOP(-/-) mice. Under the same stressful conditions, the antidepressant nortriptyline (20 mg/kg) did not change the acquisition of helpless behavior and immobile posture. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the view that NOP activation during acute stress facilitates the development of depressive-related behaviors, whereas NOP blockade has a protective outcome. This study showed for first time that NOP antagonists are worthy of investigation as preemptive treatments in patients with severe risk factors for depression.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Benzimidazoles/administration & dosage
- Benzimidazoles/pharmacology
- Cycloheptanes/administration & dosage
- Cycloheptanes/pharmacology
- Depression/drug therapy
- Depression/physiopathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Female
- Imidazoles/administration & dosage
- Imidazoles/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Nortriptyline/pharmacology
- Opioid Peptides/metabolism
- Piperidines/administration & dosage
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Receptors, Opioid/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid/genetics
- Receptors, Opioid/metabolism
- Resilience, Psychological/drug effects
- Spiro Compounds/administration & dosage
- Spiro Compounds/pharmacology
- Stress, Psychological/drug therapy
- Stress, Psychological/physiopathology
- Nociceptin Receptor
- Nociceptin
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor A D Holanda
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Joaquim Azevedo Neto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Finetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bruno Lobão-Soares
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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22
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Brunori G, Weger M, Schoch J, Targowska-Duda K, Barnes M, Borruto AM, Rorick-Kehn LM, Zaveri NT, Pintar JE, Ciccocioppo R, Toll L, Cippitelli A. NOP Receptor Antagonists Decrease Alcohol Drinking in the Dark in C57BL/6J Mice. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:2167-2178. [PMID: 31386211 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide (NOP) receptor and its endogenous ligand N/OFQ have been implicated in the regulation of drug and alcohol use disorders (AUD). In particular, evidence demonstrated that NOP receptor activation blocks reinforcing and motivating effects of alcohol across a range of behavioral measures, including alcohol intake, conditioned place preference, and vulnerability to relapse. METHODS Here, we show the effects of pharmacological activation and inhibition of NOP receptors on binge-like alcohol consumption, as measured by the "drinking in the dark" (DID) model in C57BL/6J mice. RESULTS We found that 2 potent and selective NOP agonists AT-202 (0, 0.3, 1, 3 mg/kg) and AT-312 (0, 0.3, 1 mg/kg) did not affect binge alcohol drinking at doses that do not affect locomotor activity. AT-202 also failed to alter DID behavior when administered to mice previously exposed to chronic alcohol treatment with an alcohol-containing liquid diet. Conversely, treatment with either the high affinity NOP receptor antagonist SB-612111 (0, 3, 10, 30 mg/kg) or the selective antagonist LY2817412 (0, 3, 10, 30 mg/kg) decreased binge drinking. SB-612111 was effective at all doses examined, and LY2817412 was effective at 30 mg/kg. Consistently, NOP receptor knockout mice consumed less alcohol compared to wild type. SB-612111 reduced DID and increased sucrose consumption at doses that do not appear to affect locomotor activity. However, the high dose of SB-612111 (30 mg/kg) reduced alcohol intake but failed to inhibit preference in a 2-bottle choice DID model that can assess moderate alcohol intake. CONCLUSIONS The present results suggest that NOP receptor inhibition rather than activation may represent a valuable approach for treatment of AUD characterized by excessive alcohol consumption such as binge drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Brunori
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida.,Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida.,Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Michelle Weger
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida
| | - Jennifer Schoch
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida.,Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida
| | - Katarzyna Targowska-Duda
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida.,Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Megan Barnes
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida
| | - Anna Maria Borruto
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | | | - John E Pintar
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- Pharmacology Unit, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida.,Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida.,Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida
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23
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Dagnino APA, da Silva RBM, Chagastelles PC, Pereira TCB, Venturin GT, Greggio S, Costa da Costa J, Bogo MR, Campos MM. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor modulates painful and fatigue symptoms in a mouse model of fibromyalgia. Pain 2019; 160:1383-1401. [PMID: 30720581 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Generalized pain and fatigue are both hallmarks of fibromyalgia, a syndrome with an indefinite etiology. The treatment options for fibromyalgia are currently limited, probably because of its intricate pathophysiology. Thus, further basic and clinical research on this condition is currently needed. This study investigated the effects of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor (NOPr) ligands and the modulation of the NOP system in the preclinical mouse model of reserpine-induced fibromyalgia. The effects of administration of the natural agonist N/OFQ and the selective NOPr antagonists (UFP-101 and SB-612111) were evaluated in fibromyalgia-related symptoms in reserpine-treated mice. The expression of prepronociceptin/orphanin FQ and NOPr was assessed in central and peripheral sites at different time points after reserpine administration. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ displayed dual effects in the behavioral changes in the reserpine-elicited fibromyalgia model. The peptide NOPr antagonist UFP-101 produced analgesic and antifatigue effects, by preventing alterations in brain activity and skeletal muscle metabolism, secondary to fibromyalgia induction. The nonpeptide NOPr antagonist SB-612111 mirrored the favorable effects of UFP-101 in painful and fatigue alterations induced by reserpine. A time-related up- or downregulation of prepronociceptin/orphanin FQ and NOPr was observed in supraspinal, spinal, and peripheral sites of reserpine-treated mice. Our data shed new lights on the mechanisms underlying the fibromyalgia pathogenesis, supporting a role for N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in this syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Aquistapase Dagnino
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Centro de Pesquisa em Toxicologia e Farmacologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Braccini Madeira da Silva
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Pedro Cesar Chagastelles
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Talita Carneiro Brandão Pereira
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências, Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Gianina Teribele Venturin
- Centro de Pesquisa Pré-Clínica, Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul, Brain Institute (BraIns), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Samuel Greggio
- Centro de Pesquisa Pré-Clínica, Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul, Brain Institute (BraIns), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Curso de Graduação em Biomedicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Jaderson Costa da Costa
- Centro de Pesquisa Pré-Clínica, Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul, Brain Institute (BraIns), Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maurício Reis Bogo
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências, Laboratório de Biologia Genômica e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maria Martha Campos
- Escola de Ciências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Centro de Pesquisa em Toxicologia e Farmacologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Escola de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Odontologia, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
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24
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Mann A, Moulédous L, Froment C, O'Neill PR, Dasgupta P, Günther T, Brunori G, Kieffer BL, Toll L, Bruchas MR, Zaveri NT, Schulz S. Agonist-selective NOP receptor phosphorylation correlates in vitro and in vivo and reveals differential post-activation signaling by chemically diverse agonists. Sci Signal 2019; 12:12/574/eaau8072. [PMID: 30914485 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aau8072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Agonists of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide (NOP) receptor, a member of the opioid receptor family, are under active investigation as novel analgesics, but their modes of signaling are less well characterized than those of other members of the opioid receptor family. Therefore, we investigated whether different NOP receptor ligands showed differential signaling or functional selectivity at the NOP receptor. Using newly developed phosphosite-specific antibodies to the NOP receptor, we found that agonist-induced NOP receptor phosphorylation occurred primarily at four carboxyl-terminal serine (Ser) and threonine (Thr) residues, namely, Ser346, Ser351, Thr362, and Ser363, and proceeded with a temporal hierarchy, with Ser346 as the first site of phosphorylation. G protein-coupled receptor kinases 2 and 3 (GRK2/3) cooperated during agonist-induced phosphorylation, which, in turn, facilitated NOP receptor desensitization and internalization. A comparison of structurally distinct NOP receptor agonists revealed dissociation in functional efficacies between G protein-dependent signaling and receptor phosphorylation. Furthermore, in NOP-eGFP and NOP-eYFP mice, NOP receptor agonists induced multisite phosphorylation and internalization in a dose-dependent and agonist-selective manner that could be blocked by specific antagonists. Our study provides new tools to study ligand-activated NOP receptor signaling in vitro and in vivo. Differential agonist-selective NOP receptor phosphorylation by chemically diverse NOP receptor agonists suggests that differential signaling by NOP receptor agonists may play a role in NOP receptor ligand pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Mann
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Drackendorfer Str. 1, Jena 07747, Germany.
| | - Lionel Moulédous
- Research Center on Animal Cognition, Center for Integrative Biology, Toulouse University, CNRS, UPS, 31062 Toulouse Cedex 09, France
| | - Carine Froment
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31077 Toulouse Cedex 04, France
| | - Patrick R O'Neill
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Pooja Dasgupta
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Drackendorfer Str. 1, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Thomas Günther
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Drackendorfer Str. 1, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Gloria Brunori
- Biomedical Science Department, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Brigitte L Kieffer
- Douglas Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Lawrence Toll
- Biomedical Science Department, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Departments of Anesthesiology and Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | | | - Stefan Schulz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Drackendorfer Str. 1, Jena 07747, Germany.
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25
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Abstract
The development of nonpeptide systemically active small-molecule NOP-targeted ligands has contributed tremendously to validating the NOP receptor as a promising target for therapeutics. Although a NOP-targeted compound is not yet approved for clinical use, a few NOP ligands are in clinical trials for various indications. Both successful and failed human clinical trials with NOP ligands provide opportunities for rational development of new and improved NOP-targeted compounds. A few years after the discovery of the NOP receptor in 1994, and its de-orphanization upon discovery of the endogenous peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) in 1995, there was a significant effort in the pharmaceutical industry to discover nonpeptide NOP ligands from hits obtained from high-throughput screening campaigns of compound libraries. Depending on the therapeutic indication to be pursued, NOP agonists and antagonists were discovered, and some were optimized as clinical candidates. Advances such as G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) structure elucidation, functional selectivity in ligand-driven GPCR activation, and multi-targeted ligands provide new scope for the rational design of novel NOP ligands fine-tuned for successful clinical translation. This article reviews the field of nonpeptide NOP ligand drug design in the context of these exciting developments and highlights new optimized nonpeptide NOP ligands possessing interesting functional profiles, which are particularly attractive for several unmet clinical applications involving NOP receptor pharmacomodulation.
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26
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Abstract
Since the discovery of the NOP receptor and N/OFQ as the endogenous ligand, evidence has appeared demonstrating the involvement of this receptor system in pain. This was not surprising for members of the opioid receptor and peptide families, particularly since both the receptor and N/OFQ are highly expressed in brain regions involved in pain, spinal cord, and dorsal root ganglia. What has been surprising is the complicated picture that has emerged from 25 years of research. The original finding that N/OFQ decreased tail flick and hotplate latency, when administered i.c.v., led to the hypothesis that NOP receptor antagonists could have analgesic activity without abuse liability. However, as data accumulated, it became clear that not only the potency but the activity per se was different when N/OFQ or small molecule NOP agonists were administered in the brain versus the spinal cord and it also depended upon the pain assay used. When administered systemically, NOP receptor agonists are generally ineffective in attenuating heat pain but are antinociceptive in an acute inflammatory pain model. Most antagonists administered systemically have no antinociceptive activity of their own, even though selective peptide NOP antagonists have potent antinociceptive activity when administered i.c.v. Chronic pain models provide different results as well, as small molecule NOP receptor agonists have potent anti-allodynic and anti-hyperalgesic activity after systemic administration. A considerable number of electrophysiological and anatomical experiments, in particular with NOP-eGFP mice, have been conducted in an attempt to explain the complicated profile resulting from NOP receptor modulation, to examine receptor plasticity, and to elucidate mechanisms by which selective NOP agonists, bifunctional NOP/mu agonists, or NOP receptor antagonists modulate acute and chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA.
| | - Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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27
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Angelico P, Barchielli M, Lazzeri M, Guerrini R, Caló G. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ and Urinary Bladder. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2019; 254:347-365. [PMID: 30430260 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Following identification as the endogenous ligand for the NOP receptor, nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) has been shown to control several biological functions including the micturition reflex. N/OFQ elicits a robust inhibitory effect on rat micturition by reducing the excitability of the afferent fibers. After intravesical administration N/OFQ increases urodynamic bladder capacity and volume threshold in overactive bladder patients but not in normal subjects. Moreover daily treatment with intravesical N/OFQ for 10 days significantly reduced urine leakage episodes. Different chemical modifications were combined into the N/OFQ sequence to generate Rec 0438 (aka UFP-112), a peptide NOP full agonist with high potency and selectivity and long-lasting duration of action. Rec 0438 mimicked the robust inhibitory effects of N/OFQ on rat micturition reflex; its action is solely due to NOP receptor stimulation, does not show tolerance liability after 2 weeks of treatment, and can be elicited by intravesical administration. Collectively the evidence summarized and discussed in this chapter strongly suggests that NOP agonists are promising innovative drugs to treat overactive bladder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Massimo Lazzeri
- Department of Urology, Istituto Clinico Humanitas IRCCS, Clinical and Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Girolamo Caló
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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28
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Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Micioni Di Bonaventura E, Cifani C, Polidori C. N/OFQ-NOP System in Food Intake. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2019; 254:279-295. [PMID: 31073870 DOI: 10.1007/164_2019_212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
While lifestyle modifications should be the first-line actions in preventing and treating obesity and eating disorders, pharmacotherapy also provides a necessary tool for the management of these diseases.However, given the limitations of current anti-obesity drugs, innovative treatments that improve efficacy and safety are needed.Since the discovery that the activation of the Nociceptin/Orphanin (N/OFQ) FQ peptide (NOP) receptor by N/OFQ induces an increase of food intake in laboratory animals, and the finding that this effect can be blocked by NOP antagonists, many NOP agonists and antagonists have been synthesized and tested in vitro and in vivo for their potential regulation of feeding behavior. Promising results seem to suggest that the N/OFQergic system may be a potential therapeutic target for the neural control of feeding behavior and related pathologies, especially in binge-like eating behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, MC, Italy.
| | - Carlo Polidori
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, MC, Italy
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29
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Caputi FF, Romualdi P, Candeletti S. Regulation of the Genes Encoding the ppN/OFQ and NOP Receptor. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2019; 254:141-162. [PMID: 30689088 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Over the years, the ability of N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in modulating several physiological functions, including the release of neurotransmitters, anxiety-like behavior responses, modulation of the reward circuitry, inflammatory signaling, nociception, and motor function, has been examined in several brain regions and at spinal level. This chapter collects information related to the genes encoding the ppN/OFQ and NOP receptor, their regulation, and relative transcriptional control mechanisms. Furthermore, genetic manipulations, polymorphisms, and epigenetic alterations associated with different pathological conditions are discussed. The evidence here collected indicates that the study of ppN/OFQ and NOP receptor gene expression may offer novel opportunities in the field of personalized therapies and highlights this system as a good "druggable target" for different pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Felicia Caputi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrizia Romualdi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Sanzio Candeletti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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30
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Calo G, Lambert DG. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor ligands and translational challenges: focus on cebranopadol as an innovative analgesic. Br J Anaesth 2018; 121:1105-1114. [PMID: 30336855 PMCID: PMC6208290 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2018.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids are characterised as classical (mu, delta, and kappa) along with the non-classical nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor or NOP. Targeting NOP has therapeutic indications in control of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems and micturition, and a profile as an antidepressant. For all of these indications, there are translational human data. Opioids such as morphine and fentanyl (activating the mu receptor) are the mainstay of pain treatment in the perioperative period, despite a challenging side-effect profile. Opioids in general have poor efficacy in neuropathic pain. Moreover, longer term use is associated with tolerance. There is good evidence interactions between opioid receptors, and receptor co-activation can reduce side-effects without compromising analgesia; this is particularly true for mu and NOP co-activation. Recent pharmaceutical development has produced a mixed opioid/NOP agonist, cebranopadol. This new chemical entity is effective in animal models of nociceptive and neuropathic pain with greater efficacy in the latter. In animal models, there is little evidence for respiratory depression, and tolerance (compared with morphine) only develops after long treatment periods. There is now early phase clinical development in diabetic neuropathy, cancer pain, and low back pain where cebranopadol displays significant efficacy. In 1996, N/OFQ was formally identified with an innovative analgesic profile. Approximately 20 yr later, cebranopadol as a clinical ligand is advancing through the human trials process.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Calo
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - D G Lambert
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
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31
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Malfacini D, Simon K, Trapella C, Guerrini R, Zaveri NT, Kostenis E, Calo’ G. NOP receptor pharmacological profile - A dynamic mass redistribution study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203021. [PMID: 30161182 PMCID: PMC6117024 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide NOP receptor is coupled to pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive G proteins (Gi/o) whose activation leads to the inhibition of both cAMP production and calcium channel activity, and to the stimulation of potassium currents. The label free dynamic mass redistribution (DMR) approach has been demonstrated useful for investigating the pharmacological profile of G protein-coupled receptors. Herein, we employ DMR technology to systematically characterize the pharmacology of a large panel of NOP receptor ligands. These are of peptide and non-peptide nature and display varying degrees of receptor efficacy, ranging from full agonism to pure antagonism. Using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing the human NOP receptor we provide rank orders of potency for full and partial agonists as well as apparent affinities for selective antagonists. We find the pharmacological profile of NOP receptor ligands to be similar but not identical to values reported in the literature using canonical assays for Gi/o-coupled receptors. Our data demonstrate that holistic label-free DMR detection can be successfully used to investigate the pharmacology of the NOP receptor and to characterize the cellular effects of novel NOP receptor ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Malfacini
- Molecular, Cellular and Pharmacobiology Section, Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Katharina Simon
- Molecular, Cellular and Pharmacobiology Section, Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Evi Kostenis
- Molecular, Cellular and Pharmacobiology Section, Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Girolamo Calo’
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Ahonen TJ, Rinne M, Grutschreiber P, Mätlik K, Airavaara M, Schaarschmidt D, Lang H, Reiss D, Xhaard H, Gaveriaux-Ruff C, Yli-Kauhaluoma J, Moreira VM. Synthesis of 7β-hydroxy-8-ketone opioid derivatives with antagonist activity at mu- and delta-opioid receptors. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 151:495-507. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.02.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Awwad HO, Durand CD, Gonzalez LP, Tompkins P, Zhang Y, Lerner MR, Brackett DJ, Sherry DM, Awasthi V, Standifer KM. Post-blast treatment with Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor antagonist reduces brain injury-induced hypoxia and signaling proteins in vestibulomotor-related brain regions. Behav Brain Res 2018; 340:183-194. [PMID: 27793733 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) diagnoses have increased due to aggressive sports and blast-related injuries, but the cellular mechanisms and pathology underlying mTBI are not completely understood. Previous reports indicate that Nociceptin Orphanin/FQ (N/OFQ), an endogenous neuropeptide, contributes to post-injury ischemia following mechanical brain injury, yet its specific role in cerebral hypoxia, vestibulomotor function and injury marker expression following blast-induced TBI is not known. This study is the first to identify a direct association of N/OFQ and its N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor with TBI-induced changes following a single 80psi head blast exposure in male rats. N/OFQ and NOP receptor expression increased in brain tissue and plasma following TBI, concurrent with vestibular dysfunction but preceding hypoxia and appearance of injury markers compared to sham rats. A single post-blast treatment with the NOP receptor antagonist, SB-612111, transiently improved acute vestibulomotor performance. It also prevented increases in markers of TBI-induced hypoxia, pro-apoptotic proteins and injury seen 8-10days post-blast. This study reveals an apparent role for the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in blast TBI and suggests potential therapeutic utility of NOP receptor antagonists for mTBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hibah O Awwad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| | - Cindy D Durand
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Larry P Gonzalez
- Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Paul Tompkins
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Megan R Lerner
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA; Oklahoma city VA Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73117, USA
| | - Daniel J Brackett
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK USA
| | - David M Sherry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, USA
| | - Vibhudutta Awasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Kelly M Standifer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, USA
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Caputi FF, Acquas E, Kasture S, Ruiu S, Candeletti S, Romualdi P. The standardized Withania somnifera Dunal root extract alters basal and morphine-induced opioid receptor gene expression changes in neuroblastoma cells. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 18:9. [PMID: 29316911 PMCID: PMC5761194 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-017-2065-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Behavioral studies demonstrated that the administration of Withania somnifera Dunal roots extract (WSE), prolongs morphine-elicited analgesia and reduces the development of tolerance to the morphine’s analgesic effect; however, little is known about the underpinning molecular mechanism(s). In order to shed light on this issue in the present paper we explored whether WSE promotes alterations of μ (MOP) and nociceptin (NOP) opioid receptors gene expression in neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Methods A range of WSE concentrations was preliminarily tested to evaluate their effects on cell viability. Subsequently, the effects of 5 h exposure to WSE (0.25, 0.50 and 1.00 mg/ml), applied alone and in combination with morphine or naloxone, on MOP and NOP mRNA levels were investigated. Results Data analysis revealed that morphine decreased MOP and NOP receptor gene expression, whereas naloxone elicited their up-regulation. In addition, pre-treatment with naloxone prevented the morphine-elicited gene expression alterations. Interestingly, WSE was able to: a) alter MOP but not NOP gene expression; b) counteract, at its highest concentration, morphine-induced MOP down-regulation, and c) hamper naloxone-induced MOP and NOP up-regulation. Conclusion Present in-vitro data disclose novel evidence about the ability of WSE to influence MOP and NOP opioid receptors gene expression in SH-SY5Y cells. Moreover, our findings suggest that the in-vivo modulation of morphine-mediated analgesia by WSE could be related to the hindering of morphine-elicited opioid receptors down-regulation here observed following WSE pre-treatment at its highest concentration.
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Maldonado R, Baños JE, Cabañero D. Usefulness of knockout mice to clarify the role of the opioid system in chronic pain. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2791-2808. [PMID: 29124744 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Several lines of knockout mice deficient in the genes encoding each component of the endogenous opioid system have been used for decades to clarify the specific role of the different opioid receptors and peptide precursors in many physiopathological conditions. The use of these genetically modified mice has improved our knowledge of the specific involvement of each endogenous opioid component in nociceptive transmission during acute and chronic pain conditions. The present review summarizes the recent advances obtained using these genetic tools in understanding the role of the opioid system in the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying chronic pain. Behavioural data obtained in these chronic pain models are discussed considering the peculiarities of the behavioural phenotype of each line of knockout mice. These studies have identified the crucial role of specific components of the opioid system in different manifestations of chronic pain and have also opened new possible therapeutic approaches, such as the development of opioid compounds simultaneously targeting several opioid receptors. However, several questions still remain open and require further experimental effort to be clarified. The novel genetic tools now available to manipulate specific neuronal populations and precise genome editing in mice will facilitate in a near future the elucidation of the role of each component of the endogenous opioid system in chronic pain. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Emerging Areas of Opioid Pharmacology. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.14/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Eladi Baños
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Cabañero
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
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Ferrari F, Malfacini D, Journigan BV, Bird MF, Trapella C, Guerrini R, Lambert DG, Calo' G, Zaveri NT. In vitro pharmacological characterization of a novel unbiased NOP receptor-selective nonpeptide agonist AT-403. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2017; 5. [PMID: 28805972 PMCID: PMC5684865 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2017] [Revised: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) regulates several biological functions via selective activation of the N/OFQ receptor (NOP), a member of the opioid receptor family. We recently identified a new high affinity and highly selective NOP agonist AT-403. In this study, we characterized the functional profile of AT-403 and compared it to other known nonpeptide NOP agonists Ro 65-6570, Ro 2q, SCH-221510, MCOPPB, AT-202 and SCH-486757, using the following assays: GTPγ[35 S] stimulated binding, calcium mobilization assay in cells-expressing human NOP or classical opioid receptors and chimeric G proteins, bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) based assay for studying NOP receptor interaction with G protein and arrestin, and the electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens bioassay. All compounds behaved as NOP full agonists consistently showing the following rank order of potency MCOPPB > AT-403 > Ro 65-6570 = Ro 2q > SCH-221510 > AT-202 > SCH-486757. AT-403 and MCOPPB displayed the highest NOP selectivity both at human and murine receptors. Interestingly, while all the other nonpeptide NOP agonists displayed bias toward G protein-mediated signaling in the BRET assay, AT-403, similar to the natural ligand N/OFQ, behaved as an unbiased agonist, activating G-protein-mediated function as well as arrestin recruitment. AT-403 may be a useful nonpeptide tool compound to study the pharmacology of NOP activation in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Ferrari
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Blair V Journigan
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC. 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, California
| | - Mark F Bird
- Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - David G Lambert
- Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC. 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, California
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37
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Perrey DA, Li JX, Zhang Y. Modified synthesis of NOP receptor antagonist SB612111. SYNTHESIS-STUTTGART 2017; 49:1394-1400. [PMID: 31571700 DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1588379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
SB612111 ((5S,7S)-7-{[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl}-1-methyl-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzo[7]annulen-5-ol) is a potent and selective antagonist of the nociception/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor. In the process of synthesizing cis-SB612111 to support ongoing animal studies, several key steps of the published syntheses in the patent literature proceeded in low yields in our hands, particularly with the route to the key intermediate piperidine 3, the reduction of amide 14, lactone 17 formation and the final reductive amination between 18 and 3 in the diastereoselective synthesis. We have thus explored various reaction conditions and successfully improved the yields for the necessary synthetic steps. We herein report our modified synthesis of SB612111 as the cis-diastereomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Perrey
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
| | - Jun-Xu Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14214, USA
| | - Yanan Zhang
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
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38
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Shen Q, Deng Y, Ciccocioppo R, Cannella N. Cebranopadol, a Mixed Opioid Agonist, Reduces Cocaine Self-administration through Nociceptin Opioid and Mu Opioid Receptors. Front Psychiatry 2017; 8:234. [PMID: 29180970 PMCID: PMC5693905 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cocaine addiction is a widespread psychiatric condition still waiting for approved efficacious medications. Previous studies suggested that simultaneous activation of nociceptin opioid (NOP) and mu opioid (MOP) receptors could be a successful strategy to treat cocaine addiction, but the paucity of molecules co-activating both receptors with comparable potency has hampered this line of research. Cebranopadol is a non-selective opioid agonist that at nanomolar concentration activates both NOP and MOP receptors and that recently reached phase-III clinical trials for cancer pain treatment. Here, we tested the effect of cebranopadol on cocaine self-administration (SA) in the rat. We found that under a fixed-ratio-5 schedule of reinforcement, cebranopadol (25 and 50 µg/kg) decreased cocaine but not saccharin SA, indicating a specific inhibition of psychostimulant consumption. In addition, cebranopadol (50 µg/kg) decreased the motivation for cocaine as detected by reduction of the break point measured in a progressive-ratio paradigm. Next, we found that cebranopadol retains its effect on cocaine consumption throughout a 7-day chronic treatment, suggesting a lack of tolerance development toward its effect. Finally, we found that only simultaneous blockade of NOP and MOP receptors by concomitant administration of the NOP antagonist SB-612111 (30 mg/kg) and naltrexone (2.5 mg/kg) reversed cebranopadol-induced decrease of cocaine SA, demonstrating that cebranopadol activates both NOP and classical opioid receptors to exert its effect. Our data, together with the fairly advanced clinical development of cebranopadol and its good tolerability profile in humans, indicate that cebranopadol is an appealing candidate for cocaine addiction treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianwei Shen
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Yulin Deng
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Nazzareno Cannella
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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Collins LM, Dal Bo G, Calcagno M, Monzón-Sandoval J, Sullivan AM, Gutierrez H, Morari M, O'Keeffe GW. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Inhibits the Survival and Axon Growth of Midbrain Dopaminergic Neurons Through a p38-MAPK Dependent Mechanism. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 53:7284-7297. [PMID: 26687234 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9611-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is an opioid-like neuropeptide that binds and signals through a G-protein-coupled receptor called the N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor. N/OFQ and the NOP receptor are expressed in the midbrain and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Genetic removal of the N/OFQ precursor partially protects midbrain dopaminergic neurons from 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridine-induced toxicity, suggesting that endogenous N/OFQ may be detrimental to dopaminergic neurons. However, whether N/OFQ directly affects the survival and growth of dopaminergic neurons is unknown. Here, we show that N/OFQ has a detrimental effect on the survival of dopaminergic neurons and the growth of their axons in primary cultures of the E14 rat ventral mesencephalon. N/OFQ potentiates the effects of the neurotoxins 6-hydroxydopamine and 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium through p38-MAPK signalling. We also show that like α-synuclein, there is a significant reduction in N/OFQ messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in the midbrain of patients with Parkinson's disease. These results demonstrate for the first time that N/OFQ is detrimental to the survival and growth of dopaminergic neurons and that its expression is altered in the midbrain of patients with Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M Collins
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Giorgia Dal Bo
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mariangela Calcagno
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jimena Monzón-Sandoval
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN6 7TS, UK
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Aideen M Sullivan
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Humberto Gutierrez
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN6 7TS, UK
| | - Michele Morari
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Gerard W O'Keeffe
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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Ferrari F, Cerlesi MC, Malfacini D, Asth L, Gavioli EC, Journigan BV, Kamakolanu UG, Meyer ME, Yasuda D, Polgar WE, Rizzi A, Guerrini R, Ruzza C, Zaveri NT, Calo G. In vitro functional characterization of novel nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor agonists in recombinant and native preparations. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 793:1-13. [PMID: 27780725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) regulates several biological functions via selective activation of the N/OFQ receptor (NOP). In this study novel nonpeptide NOP ligands were characterized in vitro in receptor binding and [35S]GTPγS stimulated binding in membranes of cells expressing human NOP and classical opioid receptors, calcium mobilization assay in cells coexpressing the receptors and chimeric G proteins, bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) based assay for studying NOP receptor interaction with G protein and arrestin, the electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens and the mouse colon bioassays. The action of the AT compounds were compared with standard NOP agonists (N/OFQ and Ro 65-6570) and the NOP selective antagonist SB-612111. AT compounds displayed high NOP affinity and behaved as NOP agonists in all the functional assays consistently showing the following rank order of potency AT-127≥AT-090≥AT-035>AT-004= AT-001. AT compounds behaved as NOP full agonists in the calcium mobilization and mouse colon assays and as partial agonists in the [35S]GTPγS and BRET assays. Interestingly AT-090 and AT-127, contrary to standard nonpeptide agonists that display G protein biased agonism, behaved as an unbiased agonists. AT-090 and AT-127 displayed higher NOP selectivity than Ro 65-6570 at native mouse receptors. AT-090 and AT-127 might be useful pharmacological tools for investigating the therapeutic potential of NOP partial agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Ferrari
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Camilla Cerlesi
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laila Asth
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | | | | | - Michael E Meyer
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC. 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA, USA
| | - Dennis Yasuda
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC. 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA, USA
| | - Willma E Polgar
- SRI International, Biosciences Division, 333 Ravenswood Avenue, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Anna Rizzi
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Girolamo Calo
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Italy.
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41
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Hardaway JA, Jensen J, Kim M, Mazzone CM, Sugam JA, Diberto JF, Lowery-Gionta EG, Hwa LS, Pleil KE, Bulik CM, Kash TL. Nociceptin receptor antagonist SB 612111 decreases high fat diet binge eating. Behav Brain Res 2016; 307:25-34. [PMID: 27036650 PMCID: PMC4896639 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Binge eating is a dysregulated form of feeding behavior that occurs in multiple eating disorders including binge-eating disorder, the most common eating disorder. Feeding is a complex behavioral program supported through the function of multiple brain regions and influenced by a diverse array of receptor signaling pathways. Previous studies have shown the overexpression of the opioid neuropeptide nociceptin (orphanin FQ, N/OFQ) can induce hyperphagia, but the role of endogenous nociceptin receptor (NOP) in naturally occurring palatability-induced hyperphagia is unknown. In this study we adapted a simple, replicable form of binge eating of high fat food (HFD). We found that male and female C57BL/6J mice provided with daily one-hour access sessions to HFD eat significantly more during this period than those provided with continuous 24h access. This form of feeding is rapid and entrained. Chronic intermittent HFD binge eating produced hyperactivity and increased light zone exploration in the open field and light-dark assays respectively. Treatment with the potent and selective NOP antagonist SB 612111 resulted in a significant dose-dependent reduction in binge intake in both male and female mice, and, unlike treatment with the serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine, produced no change in total 24-h food intake. SB 612111 treatment also significantly decreased non-binge-like acute HFD consumption in male mice. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that high fat binge eating is modulated by NOP signaling and that the NOP system may represent a promising novel receptor to explore for the treatment of binge eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Andrew Hardaway
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer Jensen
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michelle Kim
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Christopher M Mazzone
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jonathan A Sugam
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey F Diberto
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Emily G Lowery-Gionta
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lara S Hwa
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kristen E Pleil
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- UNC Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas L Kash
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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A key role for the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in modulating nicotine taking in a model of nicotine and alcohol co-administration. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26594. [PMID: 27199205 PMCID: PMC4873733 DOI: 10.1038/srep26594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol and nicotine are often co-abused. Although the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system is considered a potential target for development of drug abuse pharmacotherapies, especially for alcoholism, little is known about the role of this system in nicotine dependence. Furthermore, the effect of prior history of nicotine dependence on subsequent nicotine and alcohol taking is understudied. Using an operant co-administration paradigm, in which rats concurrently self-administer nicotine and alcohol, we found that nicotine dependent rats increased nicotine self-administration over time as compared to non-dependent animals, while patterns of alcohol lever pressing did not change between groups. Pretreatment with the potent NOP receptor agonist AT-202 (0.3–3 mg/kg) increased nicotine lever pressing of both dependent and non-dependent groups, whereas the selective antagonist SB612111 (1–10 mg/kg) elicited a clear reduction of nicotine responses, in both dependent and non-dependent rats. In parallel, AT-202 only produced minor changes on alcohol responses and SB612111 reduced alcohol taking at a dose that also reduced locomotor behavior. Results indicate that a history of nicotine dependence affects subsequent nicotine- but not alcohol-maintained responding, and that NOP receptor antagonism, rather than agonism, blocks nicotine self-administration, which strongly suggests a critical role for the endogenous N/OFQ in the modulation of nicotine reinforcement processes.
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Toll L, Bruchas MR, Calo' G, Cox BM, Zaveri NT. Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Receptor Structure, Signaling, Ligands, Functions, and Interactions with Opioid Systems. Pharmacol Rev 2016; 68:419-57. [PMID: 26956246 PMCID: PMC4813427 DOI: 10.1124/pr.114.009209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The NOP receptor (nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid peptide receptor) is the most recently discovered member of the opioid receptor family and, together with its endogenous ligand, N/OFQ, make up the fourth members of the opioid receptor and opioid peptide family. Because of its more recent discovery, an understanding of the cellular and behavioral actions induced by NOP receptor activation are less well developed than for the other members of the opioid receptor family. All of these factors are important because NOP receptor activation has a clear modulatory role on mu opioid receptor-mediated actions and thereby affects opioid analgesia, tolerance development, and reward. In addition to opioid modulatory actions, NOP receptor activation has important effects on motor function and other physiologic processes. This review discusses how NOP pharmacology intersects, contrasts, and interacts with the mu opioid receptor in terms of tertiary structure and mechanism of receptor activation; location of receptors in the central nervous system; mechanisms of desensitization and downregulation; cellular actions; intracellular signal transduction pathways; and behavioral actions with respect to analgesia, tolerance, dependence, and reward. This is followed by a discussion of the agonists and antagonists that have most contributed to our current knowledge. Because NOP receptors are highly expressed in brain and spinal cord and NOP receptor activation sometimes synergizes with mu receptor-mediated actions and sometimes opposes them, an understanding of NOP receptor pharmacology in the context of these interactions with the opioid receptors will be crucial to the development of novel therapeutics that engage the NOP receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Toll
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Brian M Cox
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
| | - Nurulain T Zaveri
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Port St. Lucie, Florida (L.T.); Departments of Anesthesiology, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (M.R.B.); Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Science, and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy (G.C.); Professor of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland (B.M.C.); and Astraea Therapeutics, LLC, Mountain View, California (N.T.Z.)
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Zaveri NT. Nociceptin Opioid Receptor (NOP) as a Therapeutic Target: Progress in Translation from Preclinical Research to Clinical Utility. J Med Chem 2016; 59:7011-28. [PMID: 26878436 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In the two decades since the discovery of the nociceptin opioid receptor (NOP) and its ligand, nociceptin/orphaninFQ (N/OFQ), steady progress has been achieved in understanding the pharmacology of this fourth opioid receptor/peptide system, aided by genetic and pharmacologic approaches. This research spawned an explosion of small-molecule NOP receptor ligands from discovery programs in major pharmaceutical companies. NOP agonists have been investigated for their efficacy in preclinical models of anxiety, cough, substance abuse, pain (spinal and peripheral), and urinary incontinence, whereas NOP antagonists have been investigated for treatment of pain, depression, and motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease. Translation of preclinical findings into the clinic is guided by PET and receptor occupancy studies, particularly for NOP antagonists. Recent progress in preclinical NOP research suggests that NOP agonists may have clinical utility for pain treatment and substance abuse pharmacotherapy. This review discusses the progress toward validating the NOP-N/OFQ system as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics , 320 Logue Avenue, Suite 142, Mountain View, California 94043, United States
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Asth L, Ruzza C, Malfacini D, Medeiros I, Guerrini R, Zaveri NT, Gavioli EC, Calo' G. Beta-arrestin 2 rather than G protein efficacy determines the anxiolytic-versus antidepressant-like effects of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor ligands. Neuropharmacology 2016; 105:434-442. [PMID: 26867504 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor (NOP) agonists produce anxiolytic-like effects in rodents while antagonists promote antidepressant-like effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect on anxiety and depression of NOP receptor partial agonists such as the peptides [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 and UFP-113 and the non-peptide AT-090. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In vitro AT-090, UFP-113, and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 were tested for their ability to promote NOP/G-protein and NOP/β-arrestin 2 interaction, using a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assay. In vivo, they were tested in mice in the elevated plus maze (EPM) and in the forced swim (FST) tests. NOP partial agonists effects were systematically compared to those of full agonists (N/OFQ and Ro 65-6570) and antagonists (UFP-101 and SB-612111). KEY RESULTS In vitro, AT-090, UFP-113, and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 promoted NOP/G protein interaction, with maximal effects lower than those evoked by N/OFQ and Ro 65-6570. AT-090 behaved as a NOP partial agonist also in inducing β-arrestin 2 recruitment, while UFP-113 and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 were inactive in this assay. In vivo, AT-090 induced anxiolytic-like effects in the EPM but was inactive in the FST. Opposite results were obtained with UFP-113 and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS NOP ligands producing similar effects on NOP/G protein interaction (partial agonism) but showing different effects on β-arrestin 2 recruitment (partial agonism vs antagonism) elicited different actions on anxiety and mood. These results suggest that the action of a NOP ligand on emotional states is better predicted based on its β-arrestin 2 rather than G-protein efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Asth
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - C Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - D Malfacini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - I Medeiros
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - R Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - N T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC., 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States
| | - E C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - G Calo'
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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Arcuri L, Viaro R, Bido S, Longo F, Calcagno M, Fernagut PO, Zaveri NT, Calò G, Bezard E, Morari M. Genetic and pharmacological evidence that endogenous nociceptin/orphanin FQ contributes to dopamine cell loss in Parkinson's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2016; 89:55-64. [PMID: 26804029 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate whether the endogenous neuropeptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) contributes to the death of dopamine neurons in Parkinson's disease, we undertook a genetic and a pharmacological approach using NOP receptor knockout (NOP(-/-)) mice, and the selective and potent small molecule NOP receptor antagonist (-)-cis-1-methyl-7-[[4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-5H-benzocyclohepten-5-ol (SB-612111). Stereological unbiased methods were used to estimate the total number of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra of i) NOP(-/-) mice acutely treated with the parkinsonian neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), ii) naïve mice subacutely treated with MPTP, alone or in combination with SB-612111, iii) rats injected with a recombinant adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector overexpressing human mutant p.A53T α-synuclein, treated with vehicle or SB-612111. NOP(-/-) mice showed a 50% greater amount of nigral dopamine neurons spared in response to acute MPTP compared to controls, which was associated with a milder motor impairment. SB-612111, given 4 days after MPTP treatment to mimic the clinical condition, prevented the loss of nigral dopamine neurons and striatal dopaminergic terminals caused by subacute MPTP. SB-612111, administered a week after the AAV injections in a clinically-driven protocol, also increased by 50% both the number of spared nigral dopamine neurons and striatal dopamine terminals, and prevented accompanying motor deficits induced by α-synuclein. We conclude that endogenous N/OFQ contributes to dopamine neuron loss in pathogenic and etiologic models of Parkinson's disease through NOP receptor-mediated mechanisms. NOP receptor antagonists might prove effective as disease-modifying agents in Parkinson's disease, through the rescue of degenerating nigral dopamine neurons and/or the protection of the healthy ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovico Arcuri
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Viaro
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Section of Human Physiology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Simone Bido
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Longo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mariangela Calcagno
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pierre-Olivier Fernagut
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, F-33000 Bordeaux, France; CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94040, USA
| | - Girolamo Calò
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Erwan Bezard
- Université de Bordeaux, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, F-33000 Bordeaux, France; CNRS, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, UMR 5293, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Michele Morari
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Neuroscience Center and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, via Fossato di Mortara 17-19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
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The Importance of Ligand-Receptor Conformational Pairs in Stabilization: Spotlight on the N/OFQ G Protein-Coupled Receptor. Structure 2015; 23:2291-2299. [PMID: 26526853 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2015.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Revised: 06/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanism by which ligands affect receptor conformational equilibria is key in accelerating membrane protein structural biology. In the case of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), we currently pursue a brute-force approach for identifying ligands that stabilize receptors and facilitate crystallogenesis. The nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor (NOP) is a member of the opioid receptor subfamily of GPCRs for which many structurally diverse ligands are available for screening. We observed that antagonist potency is correlated with a ligand's ability to induce receptor stability (Tm) and crystallogenesis. Using this screening strategy, we solved two structures of NOP in complex with top candidate ligands SB-612111 and C-35. Docking studies indicate that while potent, stabilizing antagonists strongly favor a single binding orientation, less potent ligands can adopt multiple binding modes, contributing to their low Tm values. These results suggest a mechanism for ligand-aided crystallogenesis whereby potent antagonists stabilize a single ligand-receptor conformational pair.
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Malfacini D, Ambrosio C, Gro’ MC, Sbraccia M, Trapella C, Guerrini R, Bonora M, Pinton P, Costa T, Calo’ G. Pharmacological Profile of Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Receptors Interacting with G-Proteins and β-Arrestins 2. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0132865. [PMID: 26248189 PMCID: PMC4527783 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) controls several biological functions by selectively activating an opioid like receptor named N/OFQ peptide receptor (NOP). Biased agonism is emerging as an important and therapeutically relevant pharmacological concept in the field of G protein coupled receptors including opioids. To evaluate the relevance of this phenomenon in the NOP receptor, we used a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer technology to measure the interactions of the NOP receptor with either G proteins or β-arrestin 2 in the absence and in presence of increasing concentration of ligands. A large panel of receptor ligands was investigated by comparing their ability to promote or block NOP/G protein and NOP/arrestin interactions. In this study we report a systematic analysis of the functional selectivity of NOP receptor ligands. NOP/G protein interactions (investigated in cell membranes) allowed a precise estimation of both ligand potency and efficacy yielding data highly consistent with the known pharmacological profile of this receptor. The same panel of ligands displayed marked differences in the ability to promote NOP/β-arrestin 2 interactions (evaluated in whole cells). In particular, full agonists displayed a general lower potency and for some ligands an inverted rank order of potency was noted. Most partial agonists behaved as pure competitive antagonists of receptor/arrestin interaction. Antagonists displayed similar values of potency for NOP/Gβ1 or NOP/β-arrestin 2 interaction. Using N/OFQ as reference ligand we computed the bias factors of NOP ligands and a number of agonists with greater efficacy at G protein coupling were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Malfacini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - C. Ambrosio
- Department of Pharmacology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M. C. Gro’
- Department of Pharmacology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M. Sbraccia
- Department of Pharmacology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - C. Trapella
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - R. Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - M. Bonora
- Department of Morphology, Surgery, and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology, and Experimental Biology and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - P. Pinton
- Department of Morphology, Surgery, and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology, and Experimental Biology and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - T. Costa
- Department of Pharmacology, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G. Calo’
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Kiraly K, Caputi FF, Hanuska A, Kató E, Balogh M, Köles L, Palmisano M, Riba P, Hosztafi S, Romualdi P, Candeletti S, Ferdinandy P, Fürst S, Al-Khrasani M. A new potent analgesic agent with reduced liability to produce morphine tolerance. Brain Res Bull 2015; 117:32-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Rizzi A, Sukhtankar DD, Ding H, Hayashida K, Ruzza C, Guerrini R, Calò G, Ko MC. Spinal antinociceptive effects of the novel NOP receptor agonist PWT2-nociceptin/orphanin FQ in mice and monkeys. Br J Pharmacol 2015; 172:3661-70. [PMID: 25828800 PMCID: PMC4507167 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Using an innovative chemical approach, peptide welding technology (PWT), a tetrabranched derivative of nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) has been generated and pharmacologically characterized. Both in vitro and in vivo PWT2-N/OFQ displayed the same pharmacological profile to the natural ligand. It was more potent and produced longer-lasting effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the spinal effects of PWT2-N/OFQ in nociceptive and neuropathic pain models in mice and non-human primates. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Tail withdrawal assay in mice and monkeys was used as a nociceptive pain model and mechanical threshold in mice subjected to chronic constriction injury was used as a neuropathic pain model. The antinociceptive effects of spinally administered N/OFQ and PWT2-N/OFQ were assessed in these models. KEY RESULTS PWT2-N/OFQ mimicked the spinal antinociceptive effects of N/OFQ both in nociceptive and neuropathic pain models in mice as well as in non-human primates displaying 40-fold higher potency and a markedly prolonged duration of action. The effects of N/OFQ and PWT2-N/OFQ were sensitive to the N/OFQ receptor (NOP) antagonist SB-612111, but not to opioid receptor antagonists. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The present study has demonstrated that PWT2-N/OFQ mimicked the antinociceptive effects of the natural peptide in rodents and non-human primates acting as a potent and longer-lasting NOP-selective agonist. More generally, PWT derivatives of biologically active peptides can be viewed as innovative pharmacological tools for investigating those conditions and states in which selective and prolonged receptor stimulation promotes beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rizzi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - D D Sukhtankar
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - H Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - K Hayashida
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - C Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - R Guerrini
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - G Calò
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - M C Ko
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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