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Xie A, Cheng G, Wu J, Li Z, Yu G, Zhu X, Chen T. Highly BBB-permeable nanomedicine reverses neuroapoptosis and neuroinflammation to treat Alzheimer's disease. Biomaterials 2024; 312:122749. [PMID: 39121725 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122749] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasing globally due to population aging. However, effective clinical treatment strategies for AD still remain elusive. The mechanisms underlying AD onset and the interplay between its pathological factors have so far been unclear. Evidence indicates that AD progression is ultimately driven by neuronal loss, which in turn is caused by neuroapoptosis and neuroinflammation. Therefore, the inhibition of neuroapoptosis and neuroinflammation could be a useful anti-AD strategy. Nonetheless, the delivery of active drug agents into the brain parenchyma is hindered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). To address this challenge, we fabricated a black phosphorus nanosheet (BP)-based methylene blue (MB) delivery system (BP-MB) for AD therapy. After confirming the successful preparation of BP-MB, we proved that its BBB-crossing ability was enhanced under near-infrared light irradiation. In vitro pharmacodynamics analysis revealed that BP and MB could synergistically scavenge excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) in okadaic acid (OA)-treated PC12 cells and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated BV2 cells, thus efficiently reversing neuroapoptosis and neuroinflammation. To study in vivo pharmacodynamics, we established a mouse model of AD mice, and behavioral tests confirmed that BP-MB treatment could successfully improve cognitive function in these animals. Notably, the results of pathological evaluation were consistent with those of the in vitro assays. The findings demonstrated that BP-MB could scavenge excessive ROS and inhibit Tau hyperphosphorylation, thereby alleviating downstream neuroapoptosis and regulating the polarization of microglia from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Overall, this study highlights the therapeutic potential of a smart nanomedicine with the capability of reversing neuroapoptosis and neuroinflammation for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aihua Xie
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Guowang Cheng
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Zilin Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Guangtao Yu
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Xiaozhen Zhu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Tongkai Chen
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
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Isaev NK, Genrikhs EE, Stelmashook EV. Methylene blue and its potential in the treatment of traumatic brain injury, brain ischemia, and Alzheimer's disease. Rev Neurosci 2024; 35:585-595. [PMID: 38530227 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2024-0007] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and brain ischemia/reperfusion cause neurodegenerative processes that can continue after the acute stage with the development of severe brain atrophy with dementia. In this case, the long-term neurodegeneration of the brain is similar to the neurodegeneration characteristic of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is associated with the accumulation of beta amyloid and tau protein. In the pathogenesis of AD as well as in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia and TBI oxidative stress, progressive inflammation, glial activation, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, and excessive activation of autophagy are involved, which implies the presence of many targets that can be affected by neuroprotectors. That is, multivariate cascades of nerve tissue damage represent many potential targets for therapeutic interventions. One of such substances that can be used in multi-purpose therapeutic strategies is methylene blue (MB). This drug can have an antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effect, activate autophagy, inhibit the aggregation of proteins with an irregular shape, inhibit NO synthase, and bypass impaired electron transfer in the respiratory chain of mitochondria. MB is a well-described treatment for methemoglobinemia, malaria, and encephalopathy caused by ifosfamide. In recent years, this drug has attracted great interest as a potential treatment for a number of neurodegenerative disorders, including the effects of TBI, ischemia, and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nickolay K Isaev
- 64935 M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University , 119991, Moscow, Russia
- Research Center of Neurology, 125367, Moscow, Russia
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Tsekrekou M, Giannakou M, Papanikolopoulou K, Skretas G. Protein aggregation and therapeutic strategies in SOD1- and TDP-43- linked ALS. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1383453. [PMID: 38855322 PMCID: PMC11157337 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1383453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease with severe socio-economic impact. A hallmark of ALS pathology is the presence of aberrant cytoplasmic inclusions composed of misfolded and aggregated proteins, including both wild-type and mutant forms. This review highlights the critical role of misfolded protein species in ALS pathogenesis, particularly focusing on Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43), and emphasizes the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies targeting these misfolded proteins directly. Despite significant advancements in understanding ALS mechanisms, the disease remains incurable, with current treatments offering limited clinical benefits. Through a comprehensive analysis, the review focuses on the direct modulation of the misfolded proteins and presents recent discoveries in small molecules and peptides that inhibit SOD1 and TDP-43 aggregation, underscoring their potential as effective treatments to modify disease progression and improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Tsekrekou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Giannakou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
- Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Katerina Papanikolopoulou
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Vari, Greece
- ResQ Biotech, Patras Science Park, Rio, Greece
| | - Georgios Skretas
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
- ResQ Biotech, Patras Science Park, Rio, Greece
- Institute for Bio-innovation, Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Vari, Greece
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Katlan B. Methylene Blue in Metformin Intoxication: Not Just Rescue But Also Initial Treatment. Pediatr Emerg Care 2024:00006565-990000000-00415. [PMID: 38471766 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000003152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Metformin (MTF) is a widely used oral antidiabetic medication. Regardless the reason, high doses of MTF cause lactic acidosis as a result of its effects on mitochondrial ATP production and no-mediated vascular smooth muscle relaxation. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis can be life-threatening despite all treatments. Methylene blue (MB) has the potential to reverse the toxic effects of MTF through its effects on both the mitochondrial respiratory chain and nitric oxide production. The use of MB in MTF intoxication has only been reported in a limited number of cases. Herein, we present a 16-year-old female patient who attempted suicide by ingesting high doses of MTF. Supportive treatments, such as vasopressor, inotropic treatments, and sodium bicarbonate, were started in the patient who developed fluid-resistant hypotension after pediatric intensive care unit admission. Because of rising lactate levels, Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) was started immediately. Despite all treatments, hypotension and hyperlactatemia persisted; MB was given as a rescue therapy. Noticeable hemodynamic improvement was observed within 30 minutes of initiating MB infusion, allowing a gradual decrease in the doses of inotropic infusions within the first hour of therapy. Patient's cardiovascular support was discontinued on the second day, and she was discharged on the fifth day. We speculate that, considering the mechanisms of MTF toxicity and the mechanisms of action of MB, it is suggested that early administration of MB, not only as a rescue treatment but as the initial approach to MTF poisoning in combination with other treatments, may result in improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banu Katlan
- From the Departmant of Intensive Care Medicine, Mersin City Training and Research Center, Mersini Turkey
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Samartsev VN, Semenova AA, Belosludtsev KN, Dubinin MV. Modulators reducing the efficiency of oxidative ATP synthesis in mitochondria: protonophore uncouplers, cyclic redox agents, and decouplers. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:851-857. [PMID: 37974985 PMCID: PMC10643702 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01160-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This work considers the main indicators of the oxidative phosphorylation efficiency in mitochondria: the ADP/O and H+/O ratios. Three groups of modulators that reduce the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation are compared: protonophore uncouplers, cyclic redox compounds, and decouplers. It is noted that some of them are considered effective therapeutic agents. The paper analyzes the authors' original data on the mechanism of action of natural decouplers, represented by long-chain α,ω-dioic acids, as antioxidants. In conclusion, we discuss the hypothesis of their participation in the rescue of hepatocytes in various disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alena A. Semenova
- Mari State University, pl. Lenina 1, Yoshkar-Ola, Mari El 424001 Russia
| | - Konstantin N. Belosludtsev
- Mari State University, pl. Lenina 1, Yoshkar-Ola, Mari El 424001 Russia
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya 3, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
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Lyamzaev KG, Panteleeva AA, Simonyan RA, Avetisyan AV, Chernyak BV. The critical role of mitochondrial lipid peroxidation in ferroptosis: insights from recent studies. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:875-885. [PMID: 37974984 PMCID: PMC10643799 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01126-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a regulated form of necrotic cell death reliant on iron-catalyzed lipid peroxidation. Although the precise involvement of mitochondria in ferroptosis remains incompletely elucidated, recent research indicates that mitochondrial oxidative events wield a pivotal influence in this mechanism. This article centers on the most recent discoveries, spotlighting the significance of mitochondrial lipid peroxidation in the occurrence of ferroptosis. Modern investigative tools, such as mitochondria-specific dyes responsive to lipid peroxidation and antioxidants targeting mitochondria, have been employed to delve into this phenomenon. The authors' recent empirical evidence demonstrates that mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, quantified using the innovative fluorescent ratiometric probe MitoCLox, takes place prior to the onset of ferroptotic cell death. The mitochondria-targeted antioxidant SkQ1 hinders mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and thwarts ferroptosis, all while leaving unaffected the buildup of reactive oxygen species within the cytoplasm, an antecedent to mitochondrial lipid peroxidation. Similarly, the redox agent methylene blue, impeding the genesis of reactive oxygen species in complex I of the electron transport chain, also imparts a comparable protective effect. These findings collectively imply that reactive oxygen species originating from complex I might hold particular significance in fomenting mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, a pivotal trigger of ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin G. Lyamzaev
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- The “Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology” of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alisa A. Panteleeva
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ruben A. Simonyan
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Armine V. Avetisyan
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Boris V. Chernyak
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
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Li K, Ji Q, Liang H, Hua Z, Hang X, Zeng L, Han H. Biomedical application of 2D nanomaterials in neuroscience. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:181. [PMID: 37280681 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-01920-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, such as graphene, black phosphorus and transition metal dichalcogenides, have attracted increasing attention in biology and biomedicine. Their high mechanical stiffness, excellent electrical conductivity, optical transparency, and biocompatibility have led to rapid advances. Neuroscience is a complex field with many challenges, such as nervous system is difficult to repair and regenerate, as well as the early diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases are also challenged. This review mainly focuses on the application of 2D nanomaterials in neuroscience. Firstly, we introduced various types of 2D nanomaterials. Secondly, due to the repairment and regeneration of nerve is an important problem in the field of neuroscience, we summarized the studies of 2D nanomaterials applied in neural repairment and regeneration based on their unique physicochemical properties and excellent biocompatibility. We also discussed the potential of 2D nanomaterial-based synaptic devices to mimic connections among neurons in the human brain due to their low-power switching capabilities and high mobility of charge carriers. In addition, we also reviewed the potential clinical application of various 2D nanomaterials in diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative diseases, neurological system disorders, as well as glioma. Finally, we discussed the challenge and future directions of 2D nanomaterials in neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangchen Li
- School of Medicine, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qianting Ji
- School of Medicine, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huanwei Liang
- School of Medicine, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zixuan Hua
- School of Medicine, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinyi Hang
- School of Medicine, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China
| | - Linghui Zeng
- School of Medicine, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Haijun Han
- School of Medicine, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, 310015, Zhejiang, China.
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Conjugates of Methylene Blue with Cycloalkaneindoles as New Multifunctional Agents for Potential Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213925. [PMID: 36430413 PMCID: PMC9697446 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of multi-target-directed ligands (MTDLs) would provide effective therapy of neurodegenerative diseases (ND) with complex and nonclear pathogenesis. A promising method to create such potential drugs is combining neuroactive pharmacophoric groups acting on different biotargets involved in the pathogenesis of ND. We developed a synthetic algorithm for the conjugation of indole derivatives and methylene blue (MB), which are pharmacophoric ligands that act on the key stages of pathogenesis. We synthesized hybrid structures and performed a comprehensive screening for a specific set of biotargets participating in the pathogenesis of ND (i.e., cholinesterases, NMDA receptor, mitochondria, and microtubules assembly). The results of the screening study enabled us to find two lead compounds (4h and 4i) which effectively inhibited cholinesterases and bound to the AChE PAS, possessed antioxidant activity, and stimulated the assembly of microtubules. One of them (4i) exhibited activity as a ligand for the ifenprodil-specific site of the NMDA receptor. In addition, this lead compound was able to bypass the inhibition of complex I and prevent calcium-induced mitochondrial depolarization, suggesting a neuroprotective property that was confirmed using a cellular calcium overload model of neurodegeneration. Thus, these new MB-cycloalkaneindole conjugates constitute a promising class of compounds for the development of multitarget neuroprotective drugs which simultaneously act on several targets, thereby providing cognitive stimulating, neuroprotective, and disease-modifying effects.
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