1
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Singh R, Jiang R, Williams J, Dobariya P, Hanak F, Xie J, Rothwell PE, Vince R, More SS. Modulation of endogenous opioid signaling by inhibitors of puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 275:116604. [PMID: 38917665 PMCID: PMC11236497 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116604] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
The endogenous opioid system regulates pain through local release of neuropeptides and modulation of their action on opioid receptors. However, the effect of opioid peptides, the enkephalins, is short-lived due to their rapid hydrolysis by enkephalin-degrading enzymes. In turn, an innovative approach to the management of pain would be to increase the local concentration and prolong the stability of enkephalins by preventing their inactivation by neural enkephalinases such as puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase (PSA). Our previous structure-activity relationship studies offered the S-diphenylmethyl cysteinyl derivative of puromycin (20) as a nanomolar inhibitor of PSA. This chemical class, however, suffered from undesirable metabolism to nephrotoxic puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN). To prevent such toxicity, we designed and synthesized 5'-chloro substituted derivatives. The compounds retained the PSA inhibitory potency of the corresponding 5'-hydroxy analogs and had improved selectivity toward PSA. In vivo treatment with the lead compound 19 caused significantly reduced pain response in antinociception assays, alone and in combination with Met-enkephalin. The analgesic effect was reversed by the opioid antagonist naloxone, suggesting the involvement of opioid receptors. Further, PSA inhibition by compound 19 in brain slices caused local increase in endogenous enkephalin levels, corroborating our rationale. Pharmacokinetic assessment of compound 19 showed desirable plasma stability and identified the cysteinyl sulfur as the principal site of metabolic liability. We gained additional insight into inhibitor-PSA interactions by molecular modeling, which underscored the importance of bulky aromatic amino acid in puromycin scaffold. The results of this study strongly support our rationale for the development of PSA inhibitors for effective pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Singh
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Rongrong Jiang
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Jessica Williams
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | | | - Filip Hanak
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jiashu Xie
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Patrick E Rothwell
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Robert Vince
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA.
| | - Swati S More
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA.
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2
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Bhilare KD, Dobariya P, Hanak F, Rothwell PE, More SS. Current understanding of the link between angiotensin-converting enzyme and pain perception. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104089. [PMID: 38977123 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is known to affect diverse physiological processes that affect the functioning of many key organs. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) modulates a variety of bioactive peptides associated with pain. ACE inhibitors (ACEis) have found applications in the treatment of cardiovascular, kidney, neurological and metabolic disorders. However, ACEis also tend to display undesirable effects, resulting in increased pain sensitization and mechanical allodynia. In this review, we provide comprehensive discussion of preclinical and clinical studies involving the evaluation of various clinically approved ACEis. With the emerging knowledge of additional factors involved in RAS signaling and the indistinct pharmacological role of ACE substrates in pain, extensive studies are still required to elucidate the mechanistic role of ACE in pain perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran D Bhilare
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Prakashkumar Dobariya
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Filip Hanak
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Patrick E Rothwell
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Swati S More
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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3
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Bernstein KE, Cao D, Shibata T, Saito S, Bernstein EA, Nishi E, Yamashita M, Tourtellotte WG, Zhao TV, Khan Z. Classical and nonclassical effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme: How increased ACE enhances myeloid immune function. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107388. [PMID: 38763333 PMCID: PMC11208953 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
As part of the classical renin-angiotensin system, the peptidase angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) makes angiotensin II which has myriad effects on systemic cardiovascular function, inflammation, and cellular proliferation. Less well known is that macrophages and neutrophils make ACE in response to immune activation which has marked effects on myeloid cell function independent of angiotensin II. Here, we discuss both classical (angiotensin) and nonclassical functions of ACE and highlight mice called ACE 10/10 in which genetic manipulation increases ACE expression by macrophages and makes these mice much more resistant to models of tumors, infection, atherosclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. In another model called NeuACE mice, neutrophils make increased ACE and these mice are much more resistant to infection. In contrast, ACE inhibitors reduce neutrophil killing of bacteria in mice and humans. Increased expression of ACE induces a marked increase in macrophage oxidative metabolism, particularly mitochondrial oxidation of lipids, secondary to increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α expression, and results in increased myeloid cell ATP. ACE present in sperm has a similar metabolic effect, and the lack of ACE activity in these cells reduces both sperm motility and fertilization capacity. These nonclassical effects of ACE are not due to the actions of angiotensin II but to an unknown molecule, probably a peptide, that triggers a profound change in myeloid cell metabolism and function. Purifying and characterizing this peptide could offer a new treatment for several diseases and prove potentially lucrative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth E Bernstein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - DuoYao Cao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Tomohiro Shibata
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Suguru Saito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ellen A Bernstein
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Erika Nishi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Physiology, São Paulo School of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michifumi Yamashita
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Warren G Tourtellotte
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Tuantuan V Zhao
- Research Oncology, Gilead Sciences, Foster City, California, USA
| | - Zakir Khan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Institute for Myeloma & Bone Cancer Research, West Hollywood, California, USA
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4
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Graeff FG, Joca S, Zangrossi H. Bradykinin actions in the central nervous system: historical overview and psychiatric implications. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2024; 36:129-138. [PMID: 38178717 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2023.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Bradykinin (BK), a well-studied mediator of physiological and pathological processes in the peripheral system, has garnered less attention regarding its function in the central nervous system, particularly in behavioural regulation. This review delves into the historical progression of research focused on the behavioural effects of BK and other drugs that act via similar mechanisms to provide new insights into the pathophysiology and pharmacotherapy of psychiatric disorders. Evidence from experiments with animal models indicates that BK modulates defensive reactions associated with panic symptoms and the response to acute stressors. The mechanisms are not entirely understood but point to complex interactions with other neurotransmitter systems, such as opioids, and intracellular signalling cascades. By addressing the existing research gaps in this field, we present new proposals for future research endeavours to foster a new era of investigation regarding BK's role in emotional regulation. Implications for psychiatry, chiefly for panic and depressive disorders are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederico Guilherme Graeff
- Behavioural Neurosciences Institute (INeC), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
- Department of Psychology, FFCLRP, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Sâmia Joca
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Helio Zangrossi
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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5
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Kong C, Castro DC, Lee J, Piston DW. The role of mu-opioid receptors in pancreatic islet alpha cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.593899. [PMID: 38798528 PMCID: PMC11118541 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.593899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
30% of people in the United States have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Many of these individuals will develop diabetic neuropathy as a comorbidity, which is often treated with exogenous opioids like morphine, oxycodone, or tramadol. Although these opioids are effective analgesics, growing evidence indicates that they may directly impact the endocrine pancreas function in human and preclinical models. One common feature of these exogenous opioid ligands is their preference for the mu opioid receptor (MOPR), so we aimed to determine if endogenous MOPRs directly regulate pancreatic islet metabolism and hormone secretion. We show that pharmacological antagonism of MOPRs enhances glucagon secretion, but not insulin secretion, from human islets under high glucose conditions. This increased secretion is accompanied by increased cAMP signaling. mRNA expression of MOPRs is enriched in human islet α-cells, but downregulated in T2D islet donors, suggesting a link between metabolism and MOPR expression. Conditional genetic knockout of MOPRs in murine α-cells increases glucagon secretion in high glucose conditions without increasing glucagon content. Consistent with downregulation of MOPRs during metabolic disease, conditional MOPR knockout mice treated with a high fat diet show impaired glucose tolerance, increased glucagon secretion, increased insulin content, and increased islet size. Finally, we show that MOPR-mediated changes in glucagon secretion are driven, in part, by KATP channel activity. Together, these results demonstrate a direct mechanism of action for endogenous opioid regulation of endocrine pancreas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Kong
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, 63110, USA
| | - Daniel C. Castro
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, 63110, USA
| | - Jeongmin Lee
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, 63110, USA
| | - David W. Piston
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, 63110, USA
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6
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Xie W, Zhang S. Editorial: Exploring the key targets and compounds that manipulate brain neurocircuits against mental disorders and psychiatric. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1411528. [PMID: 38741589 PMCID: PMC11089239 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1411528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Xie
- Shanghai Pudong New Area Mental Health Center, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Song Zhang
- Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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7
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Singh R, Jiang R, Williams J, Dobariya P, Hanak F, Xie J, Rothwell PE, Vince R, More SS. Modulation of endogenous opioid signaling by inhibitors of puromycin sensitive aminopeptidase. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.02.587756. [PMID: 38617237 PMCID: PMC11014559 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.02.587756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The endogenous opioid system regulates pain through local release of neuropeptides and modulation of their action on opioid receptors. However, the effect of opioid peptides, the enkephalins, is short-lived due to their rapid hydrolysis by enkephalin-degrading enzymes. In turn, an innovative approach to the management of pain would be to increase the local concentration and prolong the stability of enkephalins by preventing their inactivation by neural enkephalinases such as puromycin sensitive aminopeptidase (PSA). Our previous structure-activity relationship studies offered the S-diphenylmethyl cysteinyl derivative of puromycin (20) as a nanomolar inhibitor of PSA. This chemical class, however, suffered from undesirable metabolism to nephrotoxic puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN). To prevent such toxicity, we designed and synthesized 5'-chloro substituted derivatives. The compounds retained the PSA inhibitory potency of the corresponding 5'-hydroxy analogs and had improved selectivity toward PSA. In vivo treatment with the lead compound 19 caused significantly reduced pain response in antinociception assays, alone and in combination with Met-enkephalin. The analgesic effect was reversed by the opioid antagonist naloxone, suggesting the involvement of opioid receptors. Further, PSA inhibition by compound 19 in brain slices caused local increase in endogenous enkephalin levels, corroborating our rationale. Pharmacokinetic assessment of compound 19 showed desirable plasma stability and identified the cysteinyl sulfur as the principal site of metabolic liability. We gained additional insight into inhibitor-PSA interactions by molecular modeling, which underscored the importance of bulky aromatic amino acid in puromycin scaffold. The results of this study strongly support our rationale for the development of PSA inhibitors for effective pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Singh
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Rongrong Jiang
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Jessica Williams
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | | | - Filip Hanak
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jiashu Xie
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Patrick E. Rothwell
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Robert Vince
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
| | - Swati S. More
- Center for Drug Design, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, MN, USA
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8
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Xu T, Chen Z, Zhou X, Wang L, Zhou F, Yao D, Zhou B, Becker B. The central renin-angiotensin system: A genetic pathway, functional decoding, and selective target engagement characterization in humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2306936121. [PMID: 38349873 PMCID: PMC10895353 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2306936121] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that the brain renin angiotensin system (RAS) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of cognition and behavior as well as in the neuropathology of neurological and mental disorders. The angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) mediates most functional and neuropathology-relevant actions associated with the central RAS. However, an overarching comprehension to guide translation and utilize the therapeutic potential of the central RAS in humans is currently lacking. We conducted a comprehensive characterization of the RAS using an innovative combination of transcriptomic gene expression mapping, image-based behavioral decoding, and pre-registered randomized controlled discovery-replication pharmacological resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) trials (N = 132) with a selective AT1R antagonist. The AT1R exhibited a particular dense expression in a subcortical network encompassing the thalamus, striatum, and amygdalo-hippocampal formation. Behavioral decoding of the AT1R gene expression brain map showed an association with memory, stress, reward, and motivational processes. Transient pharmacological blockade of the AT1R further decreased neural activity in subcortical systems characterized by a high AT1R expression, while increasing functional connectivity in the cortico-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical circuitry. Effects of AT1R blockade on the network level were specifically associated with the transcriptomic signatures of the dopaminergic, opioid, acetylcholine, and corticotropin-releasing hormone signaling systems. The robustness of the results was supported in an independent pharmacological fMRI trial. These findings present a biologically informed comprehensive characterization of the central AT1R pathways and their functional relevance on the neural and behavioral level in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Xu
- The Center of Psychosomatic Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyi Chen
- Experimental Research Center for Medical and Psychological Science, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing400037, People’s Republic of China
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing400715, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing400715, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinqi Zhou
- Institute of Brain and Psychological Sciences, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610066, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lan Wang
- The Center of Psychosomatic Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
| | - Feng Zhou
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing400715, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing400715, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dezhong Yao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Zhou
- The Center of Psychosomatic Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
| | - Benjamin Becker
- The Center of Psychosomatic Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu610054, People’s Republic of China
- The State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong999077, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong999077, People’s Republic of China
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9
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Wang Q, Wang Y, Tian Y, Li Y, Han J, Tai F, Jia R. Social environment enrichment alleviates anxiety-like behavior in mice: Involvement of the dopamine system. Behav Brain Res 2024; 456:114687. [PMID: 37778421 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114687] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Rearing environment plays a vital role in maintaining physical and mental health of both animals and humans. Plenty of studies have proved that physical environment enrichment in adolescence has protective effects on emotion, social behavior, learning and memory deficits. However, the following effects of social environment enrichment in adolescence remain largely elusive. Using the paradigm of companion rotation (CR), the present study found that social environment enrichment reduced anxiety-like behaviors of early adult male C57BL/6J mice. CR group also showed significantly higher expression of tyrosine hydroxylase in the ventral tegmental area and dopamine 1 receptor mRNA in the nucleus accumbens shell than control group. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that CR from adolescence to early adulthood can suppress the level of anxiety and upregulate dopaminergic neuron activity in early adult male C57BL/6J mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Wang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Yuqian Wang
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Yaoyao Tian
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Jing Han
- MOE Key Laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710062, China
| | - Fadao Tai
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China
| | - Rui Jia
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Science, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, China.
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10
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Gregory KS, Cozier GE, Schwager SLU, Sturrock ED, Acharya KR. Structural insights into the inhibitory mechanism of angiotensin-I-converting enzyme by the lactotripeptides IPP and VPP. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:242-251. [PMID: 37904282 PMCID: PMC10952540 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14768] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Human somatic angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (sACE) is composed of a catalytic N-(nACE) and C-domain (cACE) of similar size with different substrate specificities. It is involved in the regulation of blood pressure by converting angiotensin I to the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II and has been a major focus in the development of therapeutics for hypertension. Bioactive peptides from various sources, including milk, have been identified as natural ACE inhibitors. We report the structural basis for the role of two lacototripeptides, Val-Pro-Pro and Ile-Pro-Pro, in domain-specific inhibition of ACE using X-ray crystallography and kinetic analysis. The lactotripeptides have preference for nACE due to altered polar interactions distal to the catalytic zinc ion. Elucidating the mechanism of binding and domain selectivity of these peptides also provides important insights into the functional roles of ACE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sylva L. U. Schwager
- Department of Integrative Biomedical SciencesInstitute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape TownSouth Africa
| | - Edward D. Sturrock
- Department of Integrative Biomedical SciencesInstitute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape TownSouth Africa
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11
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Wu Y, Chen Y, Xu Y, Ni W, Lin C, Shao X, Shen Z, He X, Wang C, Fang J. Proteomic Analysis of the Amygdala Reveals Dynamic Changes in Glutamate Transporter-1 During Progression of Complete Freund's Adjuvant-Induced Pain Aversion. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:7166-7184. [PMID: 37541967 PMCID: PMC10657795 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03415-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Pain sufferer usually show an aversion to the environment associated with pain, identified as pain aversion. The amygdala, an almond-shaped limbic structure in the medial temporal lobe, exerts a critical effect on emotion and pain formation. However, studies on inflammatory pain-induced aversion are still relatively limited, and the available evidence is not enough to clarify its inherent mechanisms. Proteomics is a high-throughput, comprehensive, and objective study method that compares the similarities and differences of protein expression under different conditions to screen potential targets. The current study aimed to identify potential pivotal proteins in the amygdala of rats after complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced pain aversion via proteomics analysis. Immunohistochemistry was performed to confirm the expression of glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1) in the amygdala during different periods of pain aversion. Thirteen proteins were found to be different between the day 2 and day 15 groups. Among the 13 differentially expressed proteins, Q8R64 denotes GLT-1, which utilises synaptic glutamate to remain optimal extracellular glutamic levels, thereby preventing accumulation in the synaptic cleft and consequent excitotoxicity. The variation in GLT-1 expression was correlated with the variation tendency of pain aversion, which implies a potential link between the modulation of pain aversion and the excitability of glutamatergic neurons. This study demonstrated that exposure to inflammatory pain results in aversion induced from pain, leading to extensive biological changes in the amygdala.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuerong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunyun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenqin Ni
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chalian Lin
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zui Shen
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofen He
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
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12
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Abstract
This paper is the forty-fifth consecutive installment of the annual anthological review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, summarizing articles published during 2022 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides and receptors as well as effects of opioid/opiate agonists and antagonists. The review is subdivided into the following specific topics: molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors (1), the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia in animals (2) and humans (3), opioid-sensitive and opioid-insensitive effects of nonopioid analgesics (4), opioid peptide and receptor involvement in tolerance and dependence (5), stress and social status (6), learning and memory (7), eating and drinking (8), drug abuse and alcohol (9), sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (10), mental illness and mood (11), seizures and neurologic disorders (12), electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (13), general activity and locomotion (14), gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (15), cardiovascular responses (16), respiration and thermoregulation (17), and immunological responses (18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, USA.
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13
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Villapol S, Janatpour ZC, Affram KO, Symes AJ. The Renin Angiotensin System as a Therapeutic Target in Traumatic Brain Injury. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:1565-1591. [PMID: 37759139 PMCID: PMC10684482 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-023-01435-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major public health problem, with limited pharmacological options available beyond symptomatic relief. The renin angiotensin system (RAS) is primarily known as a systemic endocrine regulatory system, with major roles controlling blood pressure and fluid homeostasis. Drugs that target the RAS are used to treat hypertension, heart failure and kidney disorders. They have now been used chronically by millions of people and have a favorable safety profile. In addition to the systemic RAS, it is now appreciated that many different organ systems, including the brain, have their own local RAS. The major ligand of the classic RAS, Angiotensin II (Ang II) acts predominantly through the Ang II Type 1 receptor (AT1R), leading to vasoconstriction, inflammation, and heightened oxidative stress. These processes can exacerbate brain injuries. Ang II receptor blockers (ARBs) are AT1R antagonists. They have been shown in several preclinical studies to enhance recovery from TBI in rodents through improvements in molecular, cellular and behavioral correlates of injury. ARBs are now under consideration for clinical trials in TBI. Several different RAS peptides that signal through receptors distinct from the AT1R, are also potential therapeutic targets for TBI. The counter regulatory RAS pathway has actions that oppose those stimulated by AT1R signaling. This alternative pathway has many beneficial effects on cells in the central nervous system, bringing about vasodilation, and having anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress actions. Stimulation of this pathway also has potential therapeutic value for the treatment of TBI. This comprehensive review will provide an overview of the various components of the RAS, with a focus on their direct relevance to TBI pathology. It will explore different therapeutic agents that modulate this system and assess their potential efficacy in treating TBI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Villapol
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zachary C Janatpour
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Kwame O Affram
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Aviva J Symes
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
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14
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Ahmed N, Kassis A, Malone J, Yang J, Zamzami E, Lin AH, Gordon SM, Gong M, Bardo M, Dalmasso C, Loria AS. Prenatal Morphine Exposure Increases Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Programs Neurogenic Hypertension in the Adult Offspring. Hypertension 2023; 80:1283-1296. [PMID: 37042247 PMCID: PMC10274123 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.122.20262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opioid overdose and opioid use disorder epidemics are concomitant with increased metabolic and CVD risk. Although opioid use disorder causes adverse pregnancy outcomes, the offspring's cardiovascular health is understudied. We hypothesized that offspring exposed to in utero morphine exposure (IUME) would show increased CVD risk factors and endogenous opioid system dysregulation. METHODS Sprague Dawley dams were treated with saline (vehicle, n=10) or escalating doses of morphine (5-20 mg/kg per day, SC, n=10) during gestation. Cardiovascular and metabolic parameters were assessed in adult offspring. RESULTS Litter size and pups' birth weight were not different in response to IUME. Female and male IUME offspring showed reduced body length at birth (P<0.05) and body weight from weeks 1 to 3 of life (P<0.05), followed by a catch-up growth effect. By week 16, female and male IUME rats showed reduced tibia length (P<0.05) and fat mass. IUME increases the mean arterial pressure and the depressor response to mecamylamine (5 mg/kg per day, IP) induced by IUME were abolished by a chronic treatment with an alpha-adrenergic receptor blocker (prazosin; 1 mg/kg per day, IP). Although circulating levels of angiotensin peptides were similar between groups, IUME exacerbated maximal ex vivo Ang (angiotensin) II-induced vasoconstriction (P<0.05) and induced endothelial dysfunction in a sex-specific manner (P<0.05). Proenkephalin, an endogenous opioid peptide that lowers blood pressure and sympathetic-mediated vasoconstriction, showed reduced mRNA expression in the heart, aorta, and kidneys from morphine versus vehicle group (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Among the effects of IUME, neurogenic hypertension, vascular dysfunction, and metabolic dysfunction could be associated with the dysregulation of the endogenous opioid system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nermin Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Alana Kassis
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Jena Malone
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Jodie Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Esraa Zamzami
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - An-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Scott M. Gordon
- SAHA Cardiovascular Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Ming Gong
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Michael Bardo
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Carolina Dalmasso
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
| | - Analia S. Loria
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
- SAHA Cardiovascular Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
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15
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Sun M, Wu C, Liu L, Gu L, Wang Z, Xu F, Zhu D. Interplay between the renin angiotensin system and oxidative stress contributes to alcohol addiction by stimulating dopamine accumulation in the mesolimbic pathway. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 212:115578. [PMID: 37137415 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115578] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has recently been implicated in the development of substance abuse and addiction. However, the integrative roles of the two counter-regulating RAS arms, including the ACE1/Ang II/AT1R axis and the ACE2/Ang(1-7)/MasR axis, in alcohol addiction remain unclear. Using the 20% ethanol intermittent-access two-bottle-choice (IA2BC) paradigm, we observed significant alcohol preference and addictive behaviors in rats. Additionally, we observed significant disruption in the RAS and redox homeostasis in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), as indicated by upregulation of ACE1 activities, Ang II levels, AT1R expression, and glutathione disulfide contents, as well as downregulation of ACE2 activities, Ang(1-7) levels, MasR expression and glutathione content. Moreover, dopamine accumulated in the VTA and nucleus accumbens of IA2BC rats. Intra-VTA infusion of the antioxidant tempol substantially attenuated RAS imbalance and addictive behaviors. Intra-VTA infusion of the ACE1 inhibitor captopril significantly reduced oxidative stress, alcohol preference, addictive behaviors, and dopamine accumulation, whereas intra-VTA infusion of the ACE2 inhibitor MLN4760 had the opposite effects. The anti-addictive effects of the ACE2/Ang(1-7)/MasR axis were further observed using intra-VTA infusion of Ang(1-7) and a MasR-specific antagonist A779. Therefore, our findings suggest that excessive alcohol intake causes RAS imbalance via oxidative stress, and that a dysregulated RAS in the VTA contributes to alcohol addiction by stimulating oxidative stress and dopaminergic neurotransmission. Breaking the vicious cycle of RAS imbalance and oxidative stress using brain-permeable antioxidants, ACE1 inhibitors, ACE2 activators, or Ang(1-7) mimetics thus represents a promising strategy for combating alcohol addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Sun
- Department of Emergency Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China; Department of Emergency Medicine, the Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, PR China
| | - Chao Wu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, the Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, PR China
| | - Lixin Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, the Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, PR China
| | - Liang Gu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, the Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, PR China
| | - Zihao Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, the Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, PR China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Donglin Zhu
- Department of Neurology, the Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China.
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16
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Highly sensitive in vivo detection of dynamic changes in enkephalins following acute stress. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.15.528745. [PMID: 36824728 PMCID: PMC9948958 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.15.528745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Enkephalins are opioid peptides that modulate analgesia, reward, and stress. In vivo detection of enkephalins remains difficult due to transient and low endogenous concentrations and inherent sequence similarity. We present an analytical method for Met- and Leu-Enkephalin detection in the mouse Nucleus Accumbens shell after acute stress. This approach increases spatiotemporal resolution, optimizes the detection of Met-Enkephalin through methionine oxidation, and provides insight into the relationship between Met- and Leu-Enkephalin following stress.
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17
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Lee JM, Choi S, Jeong S, Son JS, Park SJ, Chang J, Park SM. Distinct effects of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers on major depressive disorder: A nationwide cohort study. Asian J Psychiatr 2023; 81:103436. [PMID: 36630835 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2022.103436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Myong Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Seulggie Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seogsong Jeong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Biomedical Informatics, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Joung Sik Son
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, South Korea
| | - Sun Jae Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jooyoung Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sang Min Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Seoul, South Korea; Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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18
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Margolis EB, Moulton MG, Lambeth PS, O'Meara MJ. The life and times of endogenous opioid peptides: Updated understanding of synthesis, spatiotemporal dynamics, and the clinical impact in alcohol use disorder. Neuropharmacology 2023; 225:109376. [PMID: 36516892 PMCID: PMC10548835 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The opioid G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) strongly modulate many of the central nervous system structures that contribute to neurological and psychiatric disorders including pain, major depressive disorder, and substance use disorders. To better treat these and related diseases, it is essential to understand the signaling of their endogenous ligands. In this review, we focus on what is known and unknown about the regulation of the over two dozen endogenous peptides with high affinity for one or more of the opioid receptors. We briefly describe which peptides are produced, with a particular focus on the recently proposed possible synthesis pathways for the endomorphins. Next, we describe examples of endogenous opioid peptide expression organization in several neural circuits and how they appear to be released from specific neural compartments that vary across brain regions. We discuss current knowledge regarding the strength of neural activity required to drive endogenous opioid peptide release, clues about how far peptides diffuse from release sites, and their extracellular lifetime after release. Finally, as a translational example, we discuss the mechanisms of action of naltrexone (NTX), which is used clinically to treat alcohol use disorder. NTX is a synthetic morphine analog that non-specifically antagonizes the action of most endogenous opioid peptides developed in the 1960s and FDA approved in the 1980s. We review recent studies clarifying the precise endogenous activity that NTX prevents. Together, the works described here highlight the challenges and opportunities the complex opioid system presents as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elyssa B Margolis
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Madelyn G Moulton
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Philip S Lambeth
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Matthew J O'Meara
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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19
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Differential Patterns of Synaptic Plasticity in the Nucleus Accumbens Caused by Continuous and Interrupted Morphine Exposure. J Neurosci 2023; 43:308-318. [PMID: 36396404 PMCID: PMC9838694 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0595-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid exposure and withdrawal both cause adaptations in brain circuits that may contribute to abuse liability. These adaptations vary in magnitude and direction following different patterns of opioid exposure, but few studies have systematically manipulated the pattern of opioid administration while measuring neurobiological impact. In this study, we compared cellular and synaptic adaptations in the nucleus accumbens shell caused by morphine exposure that was either continuous or interrupted by daily bouts of naloxone-precipitated withdrawal. At the behavioral level, continuous morphine administration caused psychomotor tolerance, which was reversed when the continuity of morphine action was interrupted by naloxone-precipitated withdrawal. Using ex vivo slice electrophysiology in female and male mice, we investigated how these patterns of morphine administration altered intrinsic excitability and synaptic plasticity of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) expressing the D1 or D2 dopamine receptor. We found that morphine-evoked adaptations at excitatory synapses were predominately conserved between patterns of administration, but there were divergent effects on inhibitory synapses and the subsequent balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic input. Overall, our data suggest that continuous morphine administration produces adaptations that dampen the output of D1-MSNs, which are canonically thought to promote reward-related behaviors. Interruption of otherwise continuous morphine exposure does not dampen D1-MSN functional output to the same extent, which may enhance behavioral responses to subsequent opioid exposure. Our findings support the hypothesis that maintaining continuity of opioid administration could be an effective therapeutic strategy to minimize the vulnerability to opioid use disorders.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Withdrawal plays a key role in the cycle of addiction to opioids like morphine. We studied how repeated cycles of naloxone-precipitated withdrawal from otherwise continuous opioid exposure can change brain function of the nucleus accumbens, which is an important brain region for reward and addiction. Different patterns of opioid exposure caused unique changes in communication between neurons in the nucleus accumbens, and the nature of these changes depended on the type of neuron being studied. The specific changes in communication between neurons caused by repeated cycles of withdrawal may increase vulnerability to opioid use disorders. This highlights the importance of reducing or preventing the experience of withdrawal during opioid treatment.
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20
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Retzlaff CL, Rothwell PE. Characterization and mu opioid receptor sensitivity of neuropeptide Y interneurons in the mouse nucleus accumbens. Neuropharmacology 2022; 218:109212. [PMID: 35963449 PMCID: PMC10116437 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109212] [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: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitory interneurons represent less than 5% of neurons within the nucleus accumbens, but are critical for proper microcircuit function within this brain region. In the dorsal striatum, neuropeptide Y is expressed by two interneuron subtypes (low-threshold spiking interneurons and neurogliaform interneurons) that exhibit mu opioid receptor sensitivity in other brain regions. However, few studies have assessed the molecular and physiological properties of neuropeptide Y interneurons within the nucleus accumbens. We used a transgenic reporter mouse to identify and characterize neuropeptide Y interneurons in acute nucleus accumbens brain slices. Nearly all cells exhibited electrophysiological properties of low-threshold spiking interneurons, with almost no neurogliaform interneurons observed among neuropeptide Y interneurons. We corroborated this pattern using fluorescent in situ hybridization, and also identified a high level of mu opioid receptor expression by low-threshold spiking interneurons, which led us to examine the functional consequences of mu opioid receptor activation in these cells using electrophysiology. Mu opioid receptor activation caused a reduction in the rate of spontaneous action potentials in low-threshold spiking interneurons, as well as a decrease in optogenetically-evoked GABA release onto medium spiny neurons. The latter effect was more robust in female versus male mice, and when the postsynaptic medium spiny neuron expressed the Drd1 dopamine receptor. This work is the first to examine the physiological properties of neuropeptide Y interneurons in the nucleus accumbens, and show they may be an important target for mu opioid receptor modulation by endogenous and exogenous opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra L Retzlaff
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Patrick E Rothwell
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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21
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Association between Insertion-Deletion Polymorphism of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Gene and Treatment Response to Antipsychotic Medications: A Study of Antipsychotic-Naïve First-Episode Psychosis Patients and Nonadherent Chronic Psychosis Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012180. [PMID: 36293037 PMCID: PMC9602538 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether a functional insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) influenced antipsychotic treatment. At baseline, and after 8 weeks of treatment with various antipsychotic medications, we assessed patients’ Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores, PANSS factors, and metabolic-syndrome-related parameters (fasting plasma lipid and glucose levels, and body mass index). A total of 186 antipsychotic-naïve first-episode psychosis patients or nonadherent chronic psychosis individuals (99 males and 87 females) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction analysis. The ACE-I/D polymorphism was significantly associated with changes in PANSS psychopathology only (p < 0.05). Compared to ACE-II homozygous males, ACE-DD homozygous and ACE-ID heterozygous males manifested significantly greater decreases in PANSS positive score, PANSS excitement factor, and PANSS cognitive factor. ACE-DD homozygous females manifested higher decreases in PANSS depression factor compared to ACE-II homozygous and ACE-ID heterozygous females. The polymorphism’s effect size was estimated as moderate to strong, while its contribution to the PANSS psychopathology ranged from ~5.4 to 8.7%, with the lowest contribution observed for PANSS positive score changes and the highest for PANSS depressive factor changes. Our results indicate that ACE-I/D polymorphism had a statistically significant but weak gender-specific impact on psychopathology data, and showed no association between ACE-I/D polymorphism and metabolic-syndrome-related parameters.
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22
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Dai KZ, Choi IB, Levitt R, Blegen MB, Kaplan AR, Matsui A, Shin JH, Bocarsly ME, Simpson EH, Kellendonk C, Alvarez VA, Dobbs LK. Dopamine D2 receptors bidirectionally regulate striatal enkephalin expression: Implications for cocaine reward. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111440. [PMID: 36170833 PMCID: PMC9620395 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Low dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) availability in the striatum can predispose for cocaine abuse; though how low striatal D2Rs facilitate cocaine reward is unclear. Overexpression of D2Rs in striatal neurons or activation of D2Rs by acute cocaine suppresses striatal Penk mRNA. Conversely, low D2Rs in D2-striatal neurons increases striatal Penk mRNA and enkephalin peptide tone, an endogenous mu-opioid agonist. In brain slices, met-enkephalin and inhibition of enkephalin catabolism suppresses intra-striatal GABA transmission. Pairing cocaine with intra-accumbens met-enkephalin during place conditioning facilitates acquisition of preference, while mu-opioid receptor antagonist blocks preference in wild-type mice. We propose that heightened striatal enkephalin potentiates cocaine reward by suppressing intra-striatal GABA to enhance striatal output. Surprisingly, a mu-opioid receptor antagonist does not block cocaine preference in mice with low striatal D2Rs, implicating other opioid receptors. The bidirectional regulation of enkephalin by D2R activity and cocaine offers insights into mechanisms underlying the vulnerability for cocaine abuse. Low striatal D2 receptor levels are associated with cocaine abuse. Dai et al. bidirectionally alter striatal D2 receptor levels to probe the downstream mechanisms underlying this abuse liability. They provide evidence that enhanced enkephalin tone resulting from low D2 receptors is associated with suppressed intra-striatal GABA and potentiated cocaine reward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy Z Dai
- Laboratory on Neurobiology of Compulsive Behaviors, NIAAA, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - In Bae Choi
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Ryan Levitt
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mariah B Blegen
- Laboratory on Neurobiology of Compulsive Behaviors, NIAAA, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alanna R Kaplan
- Laboratory on Neurobiology of Compulsive Behaviors, NIAAA, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Aya Matsui
- Laboratory on Neurobiology of Compulsive Behaviors, NIAAA, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - J Hoon Shin
- Laboratory on Neurobiology of Compulsive Behaviors, NIAAA, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Miriam E Bocarsly
- Laboratory on Neurobiology of Compulsive Behaviors, NIAAA, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Brain Health Institute, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Eleanor H Simpson
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Division of Developmental Neuroscience, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christoph Kellendonk
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Veronica A Alvarez
- Laboratory on Neurobiology of Compulsive Behaviors, NIAAA, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA; Center on Compulsive Behaviors, IRP, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lauren K Dobbs
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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23
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Ray MH, Williams BR, Kuppe MK, Bryant CD, Logan RW. A Glitch in the Matrix: The Role of Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Opioid Use Disorder. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 16:899637. [PMID: 35757099 PMCID: PMC9218427 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2022.899637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) and deaths from drug overdoses have reached unprecedented levels. Given the enormous impact of the opioid crisis on public health, a more thorough, in-depth understanding of the consequences of opioids on the brain is required to develop novel interventions and pharmacological therapeutics. In the brain, the effects of opioids are far reaching, from genes to cells, synapses, circuits, and ultimately behavior. Accumulating evidence implicates a primary role for the extracellular matrix (ECM) in opioid-induced plasticity of synapses and circuits, and the development of dependence and addiction to opioids. As a network of proteins and polysaccharides, including cell adhesion molecules, proteases, and perineuronal nets, the ECM is intimately involved in both the formation and structural support of synapses. In the human brain, recent findings support an association between altered ECM signaling and OUD, particularly within the cortical and striatal circuits involved in cognition, reward, and craving. Furthermore, the ECM signaling proteins, including matrix metalloproteinases and proteoglycans, are directly involved in opioid seeking, craving, and relapse behaviors in rodent opioid models. Both the impact of opioids on the ECM and the role of ECM signaling proteins in opioid use disorder, may, in part, depend on biological sex. Here, we highlight the current evidence supporting sex-specific roles for ECM signaling proteins in the brain and their associations with OUD. We emphasize knowledge gaps and future directions to further investigate the potential of the ECM as a therapeutic target for the treatment of OUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelyn H Ray
- Laboratory of Sleep, Rhythms, and Addiction, Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.,Whitaker Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Benjamin R Williams
- Laboratory of Sleep, Rhythms, and Addiction, Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Madeline K Kuppe
- Laboratory of Sleep, Rhythms, and Addiction, Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.,Center for Systems Neuroscience, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Camron D Bryant
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States.,Laboratory of Addiction Genetics, Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ryan W Logan
- Laboratory of Sleep, Rhythms, and Addiction, Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.,Center for Systems Neuroscience, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States.,Genome Science Institute, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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24
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Casello SM, Flores RJ, Yarur HE, Wang H, Awanyai M, Arenivar MA, Jaime-Lara RB, Bravo-Rivera H, Tejeda HA. Neuropeptide System Regulation of Prefrontal Cortex Circuitry: Implications for Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:796443. [PMID: 35800635 PMCID: PMC9255232 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.796443] [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: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides, a diverse class of signaling molecules in the nervous system, modulate various biological effects including membrane excitability, synaptic transmission and synaptogenesis, gene expression, and glial cell architecture and function. To date, most of what is known about neuropeptide action is limited to subcortical brain structures and tissue outside of the central nervous system. Thus, there is a knowledge gap in our understanding of neuropeptide function within cortical circuits. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of various families of neuropeptides and their cognate receptors that are expressed in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Specifically, we highlight dynorphin, enkephalin, corticotropin-releasing factor, cholecystokinin, somatostatin, neuropeptide Y, and vasoactive intestinal peptide. Further, we review the implication of neuropeptide signaling in prefrontal cortical circuit function and use as potential therapeutic targets. Together, this review summarizes established knowledge and highlights unknowns of neuropeptide modulation of neural function underlying various biological effects while offering insights for future research. An increased emphasis in this area of study is necessary to elucidate basic principles of the diverse signaling molecules used in cortical circuits beyond fast excitatory and inhibitory transmitters as well as consider components of neuropeptide action in the PFC as a potential therapeutic target for neurological disorders. Therefore, this review not only sheds light on the importance of cortical neuropeptide studies, but also provides a comprehensive overview of neuropeptide action in the PFC to serve as a roadmap for future studies in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne M. Casello
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rodolfo J. Flores
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hector E. Yarur
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Huikun Wang
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Monique Awanyai
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Miguel A. Arenivar
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Rosario B. Jaime-Lara
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hector Bravo-Rivera
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hugo A. Tejeda
- Unit on Neuromodulation and Synaptic Integration, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Hugo A. Tejeda,
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Lubejko ST, Graham RD, Livrizzi G, Schaefer R, Banghart MR, Creed MC. The role of endogenous opioid neuropeptides in neurostimulation-driven analgesia. Front Syst Neurosci 2022; 16:1044686. [PMID: 36591324 PMCID: PMC9794630 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.1044686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the prevalence of chronic pain worldwide, there is an urgent need to improve pain management strategies. While opioid drugs have long been used to treat chronic pain, their use is severely limited by adverse effects and abuse liability. Neurostimulation techniques have emerged as a promising option for chronic pain that is refractory to other treatments. While different neurostimulation strategies have been applied to many neural structures implicated in pain processing, there is variability in efficacy between patients, underscoring the need to optimize neurostimulation techniques for use in pain management. This optimization requires a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying neurostimulation-induced pain relief. Here, we discuss the most commonly used neurostimulation techniques for treating chronic pain. We present evidence that neurostimulation-induced analgesia is in part driven by the release of endogenous opioids and that this endogenous opioid release is a common endpoint between different methods of neurostimulation. Finally, we introduce technological and clinical innovations that are being explored to optimize neurostimulation techniques for the treatment of pain, including multidisciplinary efforts between neuroscience research and clinical treatment that may refine the efficacy of neurostimulation based on its underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan T. Lubejko
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Robert D. Graham
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Giulia Livrizzi
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Robert Schaefer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Matthew R. Banghart
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Matthew R. Banghart,
| | - Meaghan C. Creed
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Center, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Meaghan C. Creed,
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