1
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Perez-Gutierrez L, Li P, Ferrara N. Endothelial cell diversity: the many facets of the crystal. FEBS J 2024; 291:3287-3302. [PMID: 36266750 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) form the inner lining of blood vessels and play crucial roles in angiogenesis. While it has been known for a long time that there are considerable differences among ECs from lymphatic and blood vessels, as well as among arteries, veins and capillaries, the full repertoire of endothelial diversity is only beginning to be elucidated. It has become apparent that the role of ECs is not just limited to their exchange functions. Indeed, a multitude of organ-specific functions, including release of growth factors, regulation of immune functions, have been linked to ECs. Recent years have seen a surge into the identification of spatiotemporal molecular and functional heterogeneity of ECs, supported by technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), lineage tracing and intersectional genetics. Together, these techniques have spurred the generation of epigenomic, transcriptomic and proteomic signatures of ECs. It is now clear that ECs across organs and in different vascular beds, but even within the same vessel, have unique molecular identities and employ specialized molecular mechanisms to fulfil highly specialized needs. Here, we focus on the molecular heterogeneity of the endothelium in different organs and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Perez-Gutierrez
- Department of Pathology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Pin Li
- Department of Pathology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Napoleone Ferrara
- Department of Pathology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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2
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Lattanzi R, Fullone MR, De Biase A, Maftei D, Vincenzi M, Miele R. Biochemical characterization of Prokineticin 2 binding to Prokineticin receptor 1 in zebrafish. Neuropeptides 2024; 107:102456. [PMID: 39089191 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2024.102456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Prokineticin 2 (PK2) binds to prokineticin receptor 1 and prokineticin receptor 2 (PKR1 and PKR2, respectively), two G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that can mediate multiple signalling pathways by promoting the elevation of intracellular calcium and cAMP levels, phosphorylation of Akt and activation of ERK and STAT3. This work aims to evidence the conservation of protein sequence and the mechanism of PK2 binding to PKR1 to use the zebrafish model for the identification of new drugs as targets of prokineticin receptors. To this end, we first demonstrated that the zebrafish genes pk2 and pkr1 are phylogenetically related to orthologous mammalian genes by constructing evolutionary trees and performing syntenic analyses. Subsequently, by comparing the amino acid sequences, we showed that the interaction sites with PK2 are conserved in the zPKR1. Using GST pull-down and cross-linking experiments, we demonstrated the crucial role of the N-terminal region of zPKR1 for binding to the PK2. Finally, by expressing zPKR1 in CHO cells, we demonstrated the ability of zPKR1 to induce the activation of ERK and STAT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "Alessandro Rossi Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio De Biase
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin" Sapienza University of Rome, Viale dell'Università 32, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "Alessandro Rossi Fanelli" Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy.
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3
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Tóth AD, Turu G, Hunyady L. Functional consequences of spatial, temporal and ligand bias of G protein-coupled receptors. Nat Rev Nephrol 2024:10.1038/s41581-024-00869-3. [PMID: 39039165 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-024-00869-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate every aspect of kidney function by mediating the effects of various endogenous and exogenous substances. A key concept in GPCR function is biased signalling, whereby certain ligands may selectively activate specific pathways within the receptor's signalling repertoire. For example, different agonists may induce biased signalling by stabilizing distinct active receptor conformations - a concept that is supported by advances in structural biology. However, the processes underlying functional selectivity in receptor signalling are extremely complex, involving differences in subcellular compartmentalization and signalling dynamics. Importantly, the molecular mechanisms of spatiotemporal bias, particularly its connection to ligand binding kinetics, have been detailed for GPCRs critical to kidney function, such as the AT1 angiotensin receptor (AT1R), V2 vasopressin receptor (V2R) and the parathyroid hormone 1 receptor (PTH1R). This expanding insight into the multifaceted nature of biased signalling paves the way for innovative strategies for targeting GPCR functions; the development of novel biased agonists may represent advanced pharmacotherapeutic approaches to the treatment of kidney diseases and related systemic conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes and heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- András D Tóth
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Centre of Excellence of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Turu
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Centre of Excellence of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Hunyady
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Centre of Excellence of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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4
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Fullone MR, Maftei D, Vincenzi M, Lattanzi R, Miele R. MRAP2a Binds and Modulates Activity and Localisation of Prokineticin Receptor 1 in Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7816. [PMID: 39063058 PMCID: PMC11277097 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147816] [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: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The prokineticin system plays a role in hypothalamic neurons in the control of energy homeostasis. Prokineticin receptors (PKR1 and PKR2), like other G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are involved in the regulation of energy intake and expenditure and are modulated by the accessory membrane protein 2 of the melanocortin receptor (MRAP2). The aim of this work is to characterise the interaction and regulation of the non-melanocortin receptor PKR1 by MRAP2a in zebrafish (zMRAP2a) in order to use zebrafish as a model for the development of drugs targeting accessory proteins that can alter the localisation and activity of GPCRs. To this end, we first showed that zebrafish PKR1 (zPKR1) is able to interact with both zMRAP2a and human MRAP2 (hMRAP2). This interaction occurs between the N-terminal region of zPKR1 and the C-terminal domain of zMRAP2a, which shows high sequence identity with hMRAP2 and a similar propensity for dimer formation. Moreover, we demonstrated that in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, zMRAP2a or hMRAP2 are able to modulate zPKR1 activation induced by zebrafish PK2 (zPK2) resulting in an impaired ERK and STAT3 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
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5
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Lattanzi R, Casella I, Fullone MR, Vincenzi M, Maftei D, Miele R. Mapping the interaction site for β-arrestin-2 in the prokineticin 2 receptor. Cell Signal 2024; 119:111175. [PMID: 38631405 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111175] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a family of cell membrane receptors that couple and activate heterotrimeric G proteins and their associated intracellular signalling processes after ligand binding. Although the carboxyl terminal of the receptors is essential for this action, it can also serve as a docking site for regulatory proteins such as the β-arrestins. Prokineticin receptors (PKR1 and PKR2) are a new class of GPCRs that are able to activate different classes of G proteins and form complexes with β-arrestins after activation by the endogenous agonists PK2. The aim of this work was to define the molecular determinants within PKR2 that are required for β-arrestin-2 binding and to investigate the role of β-arrestin-2 in the signalling pathways induced by PKR2 activation. Our data show that PKR2 binds constitutively to β-arrestin-2 and that this process occurs through the core region of the receptor without being affected by the carboxy-terminal region. Indeed, a PKR2 mutant lacking the carboxy-terminal amino acids retains the ability to bind constitutively to β-arrestin-2, whereas a mutant lacking the third intracellular loop does not. Overall, our data suggest that the C-terminus of PKR2 is critical for the stability of the β-arrestin-2-receptor complex in the presence of PK2 ligand. This leads to the β-arrestin-2 conformational change required to initiate intracellular signalling that ultimately leads to ERK phosphorylation and activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - I Casella
- Dipartimento del Farmaco, Istituto Superiore di Sanita, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - M R Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - M Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - D Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - R Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy.
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6
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Sun M, Chen Z. Unveiling the Complex Role of Exosomes in Alzheimer's Disease. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:3921-3948. [PMID: 38911990 PMCID: PMC11193473 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s466821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative illness, characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline, accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases. AD is characterized by senile plaques made up of amyloid β (Aβ) protein, intracellular neurofibrillary tangles caused by hyperphosphorylation of tau protein linked with microtubules, and neuronal loss. Currently, therapeutic treatments and nanotechnological developments are effective in treating the symptoms of AD, but a cure for the illness has not yet been found. Recently, the increased study of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has led to a growing awareness of their significant involvement in neurodegenerative disorders, including AD. Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that transport various components including messenger RNAs, non-coding RNAs, proteins, lipids, DNA, and other bioactive compounds from one cell to another, facilitating information transmission and material movement. There is growing evidence indicating that exosomes have complex functions in AD. Exosomes may have a dual role in Alzheimer's disease by contributing to neuronal death and also helping to alleviate the pathological progression of the disease. Therefore, the primary aim of this review is to outline the updated understandings on exosomes biogenesis and many functions of exosomes in the generation, conveyance, distribution, and elimination of hazardous proteins related to Alzheimer's disease. This review is intended to provide novel insights for understanding the development, specific treatment, and early detection of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Sun
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhuoyou Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, People’s Republic of China
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Luo Y, Zhang Z, Xi S, Li T. Bioinformatics analyses and experimental validation of ferroptosis-related genes in bronchopulmonary dysplasia pathogenesis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0291583. [PMID: 38875180 PMCID: PMC11178182 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to study the involvement of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) by conducting bioinformatics analyses and identifying and validating the associated ferroptosis-related genes to explore new directions for treating BPD. METHODS The dataset GSE32472 on BPD was downloaded from the public genome database. Using R language, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the BPD and normal group were screened. In the present study, we adopted weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) for identifying BPD-related gene modules and ferroptosis-related genes were extracted from FerrDb. Their results were intersected to obtain the hub genes. After that, to explore the hub gene-related signaling pathways, the hub genes were exposed to gene ontology enrichment analysis. With the purpose of verifying the mRNA expression of the hub genes, a single-gene gene set enrichment analysis and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were conducted. Immune cell infiltration in BPD was analyzed using the CIBERSORT inverse fold product algorithm. RESULTS A total of 606 DEGs were screened. WGCNA provided the BPD-related gene module darkgreen4. The intersection of DEGs, intramodular genes, and ferroptosis-related genes revealed six ferroptosis-associated hub genes (ACSL1, GALNT14, WIPI1, MAPK14, PROK2, and CREB5). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that the hub genes screened for BPD were of good diagnostic significance. According to the results of immune infiltration analysis, the proportions of CD8, CD4 naive, and memory resting T cells and M2 macrophage were elevated in the normal group, and the proportions of M0 macrophage, resting mast cell, and neutrophils were increased in the BPD group. CONCLUSIONS A total of six ferroptosis-associated hub genes in BPD were identified in this study, and they may be potential new therapeutic targets for BPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Taihe Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Zongli Zhang
- Institute of Pediatric Diseases, Affiliated Taihe Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Shibing Xi
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Taihe Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Taihe Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
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Wang W, Yuan M, Xu Y, Yang J, Wang X, Zhou Y, Yu Z, Lu Z, Wang Y, Hu C, Bai Q, Li Z. Prokineticin-2 Participates in Chronic Constriction Injury-Triggered Neuropathic Pain and Anxiety via Regulated by NF-κB in Nucleus Accumbens Shell in Rats. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:2764-2783. [PMID: 37934398 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03680-6] [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: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is an intractable pain that results from primary nervous system injury and dysfunction. Herein, we demonstrated in animal models that peripheral nerve injury induced enhanced pain perception and anxiety-like behaviors. According to previous reports, nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell is required for complete expression of neuropathic pain behaviors and mood alternations, we found the elevated mRNA and protein level of Prokineticin-2 (Prok2) in the NAc shell after Chronic Constriction Injury (CCI). Prok2 knockdown in the NAc shell reversed NP and anxiety-like behaviors in rats, indicating that Prok2 might play a fundamental role in NP and anxiety co-morbidity. CCI significantly enhanced Prok2 co-expression with NF-κB P-p65 in comparison with control animals. In addition to reversing the established nociceptive hypersensitivities and anxiety simultaneously, NAc microinjection of NF-κB siRNA or specific inhibitor PDTC reversed Prok2 upregulation. Besides, Prok2 was significantly decreased in vitro when co-transfected with si-NF-κB. Dual-Luciferase assay showed NF-κB directly activated Prok2 gene transcriptional activity. Overall, these findings provide new insights into the neurobiological mechanisms behind NP and comorbid anxiety. The NF-κB/Prok2 pathway could be a potential therapeutic target for NP and anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Meng Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yaowei Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingjie Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoling Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yifan Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhixiang Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhongyuan Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiming Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chenge Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qian Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Zhisong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.2, Jingba Road, Jinshui District, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Institute of Neuroscience, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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9
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Wang J, Yue XQ, Li YT, Jiang M, Liu JC, Zhao ZG, Niu CY. ANALYSIS AND IDENTIFICATION OF FERROPTOSIS-RELATED GENE SIGNATURE FOR ACUTE LUNG INJURY. Shock 2024; 61:728-739. [PMID: 37878471 DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000002247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Background: Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis is involved in the evolution of acute lung injury (ALI), a serious respiratory pathological process leading to death. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying ferroptosis in ALI remain largely unknown. The current study analyzed and identified a ferroptosis-related gene signature for ALI. Methods: Key genes associated with ferroptosis in ALI were identified by bioinformatics analysis. GSE104214, GSE18341, and GSE17355 datasets were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The signature genes were screened by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, and the key genes of ALI were screened by weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), followed by immune infiltration analysis and functional enrichment analysis. In addition, mRNA expression of key genes in the lungs of mice with hemorrhagic shock (HS) and sepsis was verified. Results: A total of 2,132 differential genes were identified by various analyses, and 9 characteristic genes were detected using Lasso regression. We intersected nine signature genes with WGCNA module genes and finally determined four key genes ( PROK2 , IL6 , TNF , SLC7A11 ). All four key genes were closely correlated with immune cells and regulatory genes of ALI, and the expression of the four genes was significantly different in the lung tissues of HS and sepsis models. Besides, the ferroptosis-related molecules GPX4 and ACSL4 showed remarkable difference in these models. Conclusion: These results indicate that PROK2 , IL6 , TNF , and SLC7A11 may be key regulatory targets of ferroptosis during ALI. This study proved that ferroptosis is a common pathophysiological process in three ALI models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology in Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiao-Qi Yue
- Institute of Microcirculation, Basic Medical College, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, China
| | - Yu-Ting Li
- Institute of Microcirculation, Basic Medical College, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- Department of Pathophysiology in Basic Medical College, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Jun-Chao Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, China
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10
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Amato E, Taroc EZM, Forni PE. Illuminating the terminal nerve: Uncovering the link between GnRH-1 neuron and olfactory development. J Comp Neurol 2024; 532:e25599. [PMID: 38488687 PMCID: PMC10958589 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25599] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
During embryonic development, the olfactory placode (OP) generates migratory neurons, including olfactory pioneer neurons, cells of the terminal nerve (TN), gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 (GnRH-1) neurons, and other uncharacterized neurons. Pioneer neurons from the OP induce olfactory bulb (OB) morphogenesis. In mice, GnRH-1 neurons appear in the olfactory system around mid-gestation and migrate via the TN axons to different brain regions. The GnRH-1 neurons are crucial in controlling the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Kallmann syndrome is characterized by impaired olfactory system development, defective OBs, secretion of GnRH-1, and infertility. The precise mechanistic link between the olfactory system and GnRH-1 development remains unclear. Studies in humans and mice highlight the importance of the prokineticin-2/prokineticin-receptor-2 (Prokr2) signaling pathway in OB morphogenesis and GnRH-1 neuronal migration. Prokr2 loss-of-function mutations can cause Kallmann syndrome (KS), and hence the Prokr2 signaling pathway represents a unique model to decipher the olfactory/GnRH-1 connection. We discovered that Prokr2 is expressed in the TN neurons during the critical period of GnRH-1 neuron formation, migration, and induction of OB morphogenesis. Single-cell RNA sequencing identified that the TN is formed by neurons distinct from the olfactory neurons. The TN neurons express multiple genes associated with KS. Our study suggests that the aberrant development of pioneer/TN neurons might cause the KS spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Amato
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Center for Neuroscience Research, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Ed Zandro M. Taroc
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Center for Neuroscience Research, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - Paolo E. Forni
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Center for Neuroscience Research, The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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11
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Lattanzi R, Casella I, Fullone MR, Maftei D, Vincenzi M, Miele R. MRAP2 Inhibits β-Arrestin-2 Recruitment to the Prokineticin Receptor 2. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:1607-1620. [PMID: 38392222 PMCID: PMC10887741 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46020104] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanocortin receptor accessory protein 2 (MRAP2) is a membrane protein that binds multiple G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) involved in the control of energy homeostasis, including prokineticin receptors. These GPCRs are expressed both centrally and peripherally, and their endogenous ligands are prokineticin 1 (PK1) and prokineticin 2 (PK2). PKRs couple all G-protein subtypes, such as Gαq/11, Gαs, and Gαi, and recruit β-arrestins upon PK2 stimulation, although the interaction between PKR2 and β-arrestins does not trigger receptor internalisation. MRAP2 inhibits the anorexigenic effect of PK2 by binding PKR1 and PKR2. The aim of this work was to elucidate the role of MRAP2 in modulating PKR2-induced β-arrestin-2 recruitment and β-arrestin-mediated signalling. This study could allow the identification of new specific targets for potential new drugs useful for the treatment of the various pathologies correlated with prokineticin, in particular, obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Ida Casella
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
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12
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Amodeo G, Franchi S, Galimberti G, Riboldi B, Sacerdote P. The Prokineticin System in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Clinical and Preclinical Overview. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2985. [PMID: 38001985 PMCID: PMC10669895 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), which are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. IBDs clinical manifestations are heterogeneous and characterized by a chronic relapsing-remitting course. Typical gastrointestinal signs and symptoms include diarrhea, GI bleeding, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Moreover, the presence of pain often manifests in the remitting disease phase. As a result, patients report a further reduction in life quality. Despite the scientific advances implemented in the last two decades and the therapies aimed at inducing or maintaining IBDs in a remissive condition, to date, their pathophysiology still remains unknown. In this scenario, the importance of identifying a common and effective therapeutic target for both digestive symptoms and pain remains a priority. Recent clinical and preclinical studies have reported the prokineticin system (PKS) as an emerging therapeutic target for IBDs. PKS alterations are likely to play a role in IBDs at multiple levels, such as in intestinal motility, local inflammation, ulceration processes, localized abdominal and visceral pain, as well as central nervous system sensitization, leading to the development of chronic and widespread pain. This narrative review summarized the evidence about the involvement of the PKS in IBD and discussed its potential as a druggable target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Amodeo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milan, Italy; (S.F.); (G.G.); (B.R.); (P.S.)
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13
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Pérez-Gutiérrez L, Ferrara N. Biology and therapeutic targeting of vascular endothelial growth factor A. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:816-834. [PMID: 37491579 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00631-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The formation of new blood vessels, called angiogenesis, is an essential pathophysiological process in which several families of regulators have been implicated. Among these, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA; also known as VEGF) and its two tyrosine kinase receptors, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, represent a key signalling pathway mediating physiological angiogenesis and are also major therapeutic targets. VEGFA is a member of the gene family that includes VEGFB, VEGFC, VEGFD and placental growth factor (PLGF). Three decades after its initial isolation and cloning, VEGFA is arguably the most extensively investigated signalling system in angiogenesis. Although many mediators of angiogenesis have been identified, including members of the FGF family, angiopoietins, TGFβ and sphingosine 1-phosphate, all current FDA-approved anti-angiogenic drugs target the VEGF pathway. Anti-VEGF agents are widely used in oncology and, in combination with chemotherapy or immunotherapy, are now the standard of care in multiple malignancies. Anti-VEGF drugs have also revolutionized the treatment of neovascular eye disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and ischaemic retinal disorders. In this Review, we emphasize the molecular, structural and cellular basis of VEGFA action as well as recent findings illustrating unexpected interactions with other pathways and provocative reports on the role of VEGFA in regenerative medicine. We also discuss clinical and translational aspects of VEGFA. Given the crucial role that VEGFA plays in regulating angiogenesis in health and disease, this molecule is largely the focus of this Review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Pérez-Gutiérrez
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Napoleone Ferrara
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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14
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Younes H, Kyritsi I, Mahrougui Z, Benharouga M, Alfaidy N, Marquette C. Effects of Prokineticins on Cerebral Cell Function and Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15428. [PMID: 37895111 PMCID: PMC10607385 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015428] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Prokineticins are a family of small proteins with diverse roles in various tissues, including the brain. However, their specific effects on different cerebral cell types and blood-brain barrier (BBB) function remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of PROK1 and PROK2 on murine cerebral cell lines, bEnd.3, C8.D30, and N2a, corresponding to microvascular endothelial cells, astrocytes and neurons, respectively, and on an established BBB co-culture model. Western blot analysis showed that prokineticin receptors (PROKR1 and PROKR2) were differentially expressed in the considered cell lines. The effect of PROK1 and PROK2 on cell proliferation and migration were assessed using time-lapse microscopy. PROK1 decreased neural cells' proliferation, while it had no effect on the proliferation of endothelial cells and astrocytes. In contrast, PROK2 reduced the proliferation of all cell lines tested. Both PROK1 and PROK2 increased the migration of all cell lines. Blocking PROKRs with the PROKR1 antagonist (PC7) and the PROKR2 antagonist (PKR-A) inhibited astrocyte PROK2-mediated migration. Using the insert co-culture model of BBB, we demonstrated that PROKs increased BBB permeability, which could be prevented by PROKRs' antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Younes
- University Grenoble-Alpes, CEDEX 9, 38043 Grenoble, France; (H.Y.); (I.K.); (Z.M.); (M.B.); (N.A.)
- Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Laboratory of Biology & Biotechnology for Health, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1292, Biologie et Biotechnologie pour la Santé, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Ioanna Kyritsi
- University Grenoble-Alpes, CEDEX 9, 38043 Grenoble, France; (H.Y.); (I.K.); (Z.M.); (M.B.); (N.A.)
- Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Laboratory of Biology & Biotechnology for Health, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1292, Biologie et Biotechnologie pour la Santé, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Zineb Mahrougui
- University Grenoble-Alpes, CEDEX 9, 38043 Grenoble, France; (H.Y.); (I.K.); (Z.M.); (M.B.); (N.A.)
- Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Laboratory of Biology & Biotechnology for Health, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1292, Biologie et Biotechnologie pour la Santé, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Mohamed Benharouga
- University Grenoble-Alpes, CEDEX 9, 38043 Grenoble, France; (H.Y.); (I.K.); (Z.M.); (M.B.); (N.A.)
- Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Laboratory of Biology & Biotechnology for Health, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1292, Biologie et Biotechnologie pour la Santé, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Nadia Alfaidy
- University Grenoble-Alpes, CEDEX 9, 38043 Grenoble, France; (H.Y.); (I.K.); (Z.M.); (M.B.); (N.A.)
- Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Laboratory of Biology & Biotechnology for Health, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1292, Biologie et Biotechnologie pour la Santé, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Christel Marquette
- University Grenoble-Alpes, CEDEX 9, 38043 Grenoble, France; (H.Y.); (I.K.); (Z.M.); (M.B.); (N.A.)
- Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Laboratory of Biology & Biotechnology for Health, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, 38000 Grenoble, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1292, Biologie et Biotechnologie pour la Santé, 38000 Grenoble, France
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15
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Onodera K, Tsuno Y, Hiraoka Y, Tanaka K, Maejima T, Mieda M. In vivo recording of the circadian calcium rhythm in Prokineticin 2 neurons of the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16974. [PMID: 37813987 PMCID: PMC10562406 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44282-5] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Prokineticin 2 (Prok2) is a small protein expressed in a subpopulation of neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the primary circadian pacemaker in mammals. Prok2 has been implicated as a candidate output molecule from the SCN to control multiple circadian rhythms. Genetic manipulation specific to Prok2-producing neurons would be a powerful approach to understanding their function. Here, we report the generation of Prok2-tTA knock-in mice expressing the tetracycline transactivator (tTA) specifically in Prok2 neurons and an application of these mice to in vivo recording of Ca2+ rhythms in these neurons. First, the specific and efficient expression of tTA in Prok2 neurons was verified by crossing the mice with EGFP reporter mice. Prok2-tTA mice were then used to express a fluorescent Ca2+ sensor protein to record the circadian Ca2+ rhythm in SCN Prok2 neurons in vivo. Ca2+ in these cells showed clear circadian rhythms in both light-dark and constant dark conditions, with their peaks around midday. Notably, the hours of high Ca2+ nearly coincided with the rest period of the behavioral rhythm. These observations fit well with the predicted function of Prok2 neurons as a candidate output pathway of the SCN by suppressing locomotor activity during both daytime and subjective daytime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaito Onodera
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yusuke Tsuno
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yuichi Hiraoka
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kohichi Tanaka
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Maejima
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Michihiro Mieda
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8640, Japan.
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16
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Galimberti G, Amodeo G, Magni G, Riboldi B, Balboni G, Onnis V, Ceruti S, Sacerdote P, Franchi S. Prokineticin System Is a Pharmacological Target to Counteract Pain and Its Comorbid Mood Alterations in an Osteoarthritis Murine Model. Cells 2023; 12:2255. [PMID: 37759478 PMCID: PMC10526764 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent joint disease associated with chronic pain. OA pain is often accompanied by mood disorders. We addressed the role of the Prokineticin (PK) system in pain and mood alterations in a mice OA model induced with monosodium iodoacetate (MIA). The effect of a PK antagonist (PC1) was compared to that of diclofenac. C57BL/6J male mice injected with MIA in the knee joint were characterized by allodynia, motor deficits, and fatigue. Twenty-eight days after MIA, in the knee joint, we measured high mRNA of PK2 and its receptor PKR1, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and MMP13. At the same time, in the sciatic nerve and spinal cord, we found increased levels of PK2, PKR1, IL-1β, and IL-6. These changes were in the presence of high GFAP and CD11b mRNA in the sciatic nerve and GFAP in the spinal cord. OA mice were also characterized by anxiety, depression, and neuroinflammation in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. In both stations, we found increased pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, PK upregulation and reactive astrogliosis in the hippocampus and microglia reactivity in the prefrontal cortex were detected. PC1 reduced joint inflammation and neuroinflammation in PNS and CNS and counteracted OA pain and emotional disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Galimberti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (G.A.); (G.M.); (B.R.); (S.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Giada Amodeo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (G.A.); (G.M.); (B.R.); (S.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Giulia Magni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (G.A.); (G.M.); (B.R.); (S.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Benedetta Riboldi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (G.A.); (G.M.); (B.R.); (S.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Gianfranco Balboni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.B.); (V.O.)
| | - Valentina Onnis
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.B.); (V.O.)
| | - Stefania Ceruti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (G.A.); (G.M.); (B.R.); (S.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Paola Sacerdote
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (G.A.); (G.M.); (B.R.); (S.C.); (P.S.)
| | - Silvia Franchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (G.A.); (G.M.); (B.R.); (S.C.); (P.S.)
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17
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Amato E, Taroc EZM, Forni PE. Illuminating the Terminal Nerve: Uncovering the Link between GnRH-1 and Olfactory Development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.31.555770. [PMID: 37693459 PMCID: PMC10491181 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.31.555770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
During embryonic development, the olfactory placode (OP) generates migratory neurons, including olfactory pioneer neurons, cells of the terminal nerve (TN), Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 (GnRH-1) neurons, and other uncharacterized neurons. Pioneer neurons from the olfactory placode induce olfactory bulb morphogenesis. In mice, GnRH-1 neurons appear in the olfactory system around mid-gestation and migrate via the terminal nerve axons to different brain regions. The GnRH-1 neurons are crucial in controlling the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Kallmann syndrome is characterized by impaired olfactory system development, defective olfactory bulbs, defective secretion of GnRH-1, and infertility. The precise mechanistic link between the olfactory system and GnRH-1 development remains unclear. Studies in humans and mice highlight the importance of the Prokineticin-2/Prokineticin-Receptor-2 (Prokr2) signaling pathway in olfactory bulb morphogenesis and GnRH-1 neuronal migration. Prokr2 loss-of-function mutations can cause Kallmann syndrome, and hence the Prokr2 signaling pathway represents a unique model to decipher the olfactory/GnRH-1 connection. We discovered that Prokr2 is expressed in the TN neurons during the critical period of GnRH-1 neuron formation, migration, and induction of olfactory bulb morphogenesis. Single-cell RNA sequencing identified that the TN is formed by neurons that are distinct from the olfactory neurons. The TN neurons express multiple genes associated with KS. Our study suggests that the aberrant development of pioneer/TN neurons might cause the KS spectrum. Key Points 1) Pioneer or terminal nerve neurons play a crucial role in initiating the development of the olfactory bulbs. We found that the Prokineticin Receptor-2 gene, associated with Kallmann syndrome, is expressed by the olfactory pioneer/terminal nerve neurons.2) We genetically traced, isolated, and conducted Single-cell RNA sequencing on terminal nerve neurons of rodents. This analysis revealed a significant enrichment of gene expression related to Kallmann syndrome.3) Our study indicates that the investigation of Pioneer/terminal nerve neurons should be a pivotal focal point for comprehending developmental defects affecting olfactory and GnRH-1 systems.
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18
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Jiang Z, Zhang T, Han W, Xiao J, Zhang W, Wang X, Liu J, Yang Y, Yang C, Guan F, Li T, Rice JP. Identification of PROK2 gene polymorphisms as predictors of methamphetamine use disorder risk and indicators of craving scale in the Chinese Han population. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1217382. [PMID: 37484015 PMCID: PMC10356980 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1217382] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) has become a global problem due to the highly addictive nature of methamphetamine. Earlier research have demonstrated that PROK2 functions as a compensatory and protective response against neurotoxic stress by stimulating astrocyte reactivity. The aim of our study was to evaluate the correlation between the PROK2 gene and both MUD risk susceptibility and craving scale in the Chinese Han population. Methods: A total of 5,282 participants (1,796 MUD patients and 3,486 controls) were recruited. Seven tag SNPs of the PROK2 gene were chosen and genotyped in the samples. Genetic association analyses were performed to capture the significant SNPs. To investigate the relationship between PROK2 levels and craving scores with the associated-SNP genotypes, we conducted a linear model. Results: SNP rs75433452 was significantly linked with MUD risk (p-value = 1.54 × 10-8), with the A allele being positively correlated with an increased risk of MUD. Moreover, the average serum level of PROK2 decreased when more copies of the A allele were presented in both MUD patients (p-value = 4.57 × 10-6) and controls (p-value = 1.13 × 10-5). Furthermore, the genotypes of SNP rs75433452 were strongly correlated with the craving scores in MUD patients (p-value = 4.05 × 10-4). Conclusion: Our study identified a significant association signal of the PROK2 gene with MUD risk susceptibility and methamphetamine craving scores in the Chinese Han population, providing potential valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of METH dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Jiang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, China
- Department of Neurology, Honghui Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tianxiao Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wei Han
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, China
| | - Jing Xiao
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenpei Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaochen Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianing Liu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Congying Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Fanglin Guan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine and Forensics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an, China
| | - John P. Rice
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
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19
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Turati M, Franchi S, Crippa M, Rizzi L, Rigamonti L, Sacerdote P, Gatti SD, Piatti M, Galimberti G, Munegato D, Amodeo G, Omeljaniuk RJ, Zatti G, Torsello A, Bigoni M. Prokineticin 2 and Cytokine Content in the Synovial Fluid of Knee Osteoarthritis and Traumatic Meniscal Tear Patients: Preliminary Results. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4330. [PMID: 37445367 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134330] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative inflammatory-based condition caused by a cascade of different intra-articular molecules including several cytokines. Among the cytokines, prokineticins (PKs) have recently been identified as important mediators of inflammation and pain. This observational study examined the potential involvement of PK2 in degenerative or traumatic knee disease. Fifteen patients presenting knee osteoarthritis (OA group) and 15 patients presenting a traumatic meniscal tear (TM group) were studied. Synovial fluid samples from affected knees were assessed for PK2, IL-10, and TNF-α using the ELISA method. At a long-term follow-up (minimum 5 years, mean = 6.1 years), patients in the TM group underwent clinical re-evaluation with PROMs (Tegner Activity Scale, IKDC, Lysholm, SKV); in addition, X-ray visualization was used to assess the presence of secondary OA. PK2 was detected in synovial fluids of both TM and OA patients and the levels were comparable between the two groups, while IL-10 levels were significantly greater in the OA group than those in TM patients. PK2 levels correlated with those of IL-10. PK2 levels were greater in blood effusions compared to clear samples, did not differ significantly between sexes, nor were they related to differences in weight, height, or injury (meniscal laterality, time since dosing). No correlation was found between PROMs and radiological classifications in patients in the TM group at final follow-up. These data are the first observations of PK2 in synovial fluid following traumatic meniscus injury. These findings suggest possible further prognostic indices and therapeutic targets to limit the development of secondary OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Turati
- Orthopedic Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Transalpine Center of Pediatric Sports Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Department of Paediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital Couple Enfants, Grenoble Alpes University, 38400 Grenoble, France
| | - Silvia Franchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Crippa
- Orthopedic Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Transalpine Center of Pediatric Sports Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Laura Rizzi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Luca Rigamonti
- Transalpine Center of Pediatric Sports Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Policlinico San Pietro, 24036 Ponte San Pietro, Italy
| | - Paola Sacerdote
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Daniel Gatti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Piatti
- Transalpine Center of Pediatric Sports Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Policlinico San Pietro, 24036 Ponte San Pietro, Italy
| | - Giulia Galimberti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Munegato
- Orthopedic Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Giada Amodeo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Zatti
- Orthopedic Department, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, 20900 Monza, Italy
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Antonio Torsello
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Marco Bigoni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Transalpine Center of Pediatric Sports Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Policlinico San Pietro, 24036 Ponte San Pietro, Italy
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20
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Yu H, Wang P, Lu H, Guan J, Yao F, Zhang T, Wang Q, Wang Z. Effects of G-CSF on hPDLSC proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in the LPS-induced inflammatory microenvironment. BMC Oral Health 2023; 23:422. [PMID: 37365568 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03040-9] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Periodontitis is a chronic infectious disease of periodontal support tissue caused by microorganisms in dental plaque, which causes alveolar bone resorption and tooth loss. Periodontitis treatment goals include prevention of alveolar bone resorption and promotion of periodontal regeneration. We previously found that granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) was involved in periodontitis-related alveolar bone resorption through induction of an immune response and subsequent destruction of periodontal tissue. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of G-CSF on abnormal bone remodeling have not yet been fully elucidated. Human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) are major modulators of osteogenic differentiation in periodontal tissues. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigated whether G-CSF acts effects on hPDLSC proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, as well as periodontal tissue repair. METHODS hPDLSCs were cultured and identified by short tandem repeat analysis. The expression patterns and locations of G-CSF receptor (G-CSFR) on hPDLSCs were detected by immunofluorescence analysis. The effects of G-CSF on hPDLSCs in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory microenvironment were investigated. Specifically, Cell-Counting Kit 8 (CCK8) and Alizarin red staining were used to examine hPDLSC proliferation and osteogenic differentiation; reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect the expression patterns of osteogenesis-related genes (alkaline phosphatase [ALP], runt-related transcription factor 2 [Runx2], and osteocalcin [OCN]) in hPDLSCs; and Western blotting was used to detect the expression patterns of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (Akt) of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. RESULTS hPDLSCs exhibited a typical spindle-shaped morphology and good clonogenic ability. G-CSFR was mostly localized on the cell surface membrane. Analyses showed that G-CSF inhibited hPDLSC proliferation. Also, in the LPS-induced inflammatory microenvironment, G-CSF inhibited hPDLSC osteogenic differentiation and reduced the expression levels of osteogenesis-related genes. G-CSF increased the protein expression levels of hPDLSC pathway components p-PI3K and p-Akt. CONCLUSIONS We found that G-CSFR was expressed on hPDLSCs. Furthermore, G-CSF inhibited hPDLSC osteogenic differentiation in vitro in the LPS-induced inflammatory microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yu
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, 6th Jiefang Street, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Pengcheng Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8th Gongti South Road, Beijing, China
| | - Haibin Lu
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, 6th Jiefang Street, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Jiurong Guan
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, 6th Jiefang Street, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Fang Yao
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, 6th Jiefang Street, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- Shanxi Medical University, 382th WuyiRoad, Xinghualing Distrct, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Qiuxu Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, 6th Jiefang Street, Dalian, Liaoning, China.
| | - Zuomin Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8th Gongti South Road, Beijing, China.
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21
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Giada A, Giulia G, Paola S, Silvia F. Characterization of prokineticin system in Crohn's disease pathophysiology and pain, and its modulation by alcohol abuse: A preclinical study. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023:166791. [PMID: 37336367 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166791] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crohn's disease-(CD) pathogenesis is still unknown and chronic pain is a frequent symptom in CD-patients. Identifying novel therapeutic targets and predisposing factors is a primary goal. In this regard, prokineticin system-(PKS) appears a promising target. AIMS AND METHODS TNBS-model was used. DAI, abdominal and visceral pain, and muscle strength were monitored. CD-mice were sacrificed at two times (day 7 and 14 after TNBS) in order to identify PKS involvement in CD pathophysiology and pain. PKS characterization was performed in mesenteric lymph nodes-(MLN), colon, myenteric plexus-(MP), dorsal root ganglia-(DRGs) and spinal cord-(SC). Inflammation/neuroinflammation was also assessed in the same tissues. In order to evaluate alcohol abuse as a possible trigger for CD and its effect on PKS activation, naïve mice were administered (oral-gavage) with ethanol for 10 consecutive days. PKS as well as inflammation/neuroinflammation were evaluated in MLN, colon and MP. RESULTS TNBS treated-mice showed a rapid increase in DAI, abdominal/visceral hypersensitivity and a progressive strength loss. In all tissue analysed of CD-mice, a quick and significant increase of mRNA of PKs and PKRs was observed, associated with an increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNFα) and macrophage/glia markers (iba1, CD11b and GFAP) levels. In alcohol abuse model, ethanol induced in colon and MP a significant PKS activation accompanied by inflammation/neuroinflammation. CONCLUSIONS We can assume that PKS may be involved in CD development and pain. Furthermore, alcohol appears to activate PKS and may be a trigger factor for CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amodeo Giada
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", University of Milan, Milan, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milano, Italy.
| | - Galimberti Giulia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", University of Milan, Milan, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milano, Italy
| | - Sacerdote Paola
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", University of Milan, Milan, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milano, Italy
| | - Franchi Silvia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari "Rodolfo Paoletti", University of Milan, Milan, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milano, Italy
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22
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Gao Y, Liao W, Zhang R, Lei Y, Chen T, Wu L, Li M, Liu X, Cai F. PK2/PKRs pathway is involved in the protective effect of artemisinin against trimethyltin chloride-induced hippocampal injury. Toxicology 2023; 486:153432. [PMID: 36696940 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153432] [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: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is one of the important mechanisms of trimethyltin chloride (TMT) central neurotoxicity. Artemisinin (ARS) is a well-known antimalarial drug that also has significant anti-inflammatory effects. Prokineticin 2 (PK2) is a small molecule secreted protein that is widely expressed in the nervous system and plays a key role in the development of neuroinflammation. However, it remains unclear whether ARS can ameliorate neuroinflammation caused by TMT and whether PK2/PKRs signaling pathway plays a part in it. In this research, male Balb/c mice were administered TMT (2.8 mg/kg, i.p.) followed by immunohistochemistry to assess the expression of PK2, PKR1, and PKR2 proteins in the hippocampus. Network pharmacology was used to predict the intersection targets of ARS, central nervous system(CNS) injury and TMT. The neurobehavior of mice was evaluated by behavioral scores. Histopathological damage of the hippocampus was evaluated by HE, Nissl and Electron microscopy. Western blotting was used to identify the expression of synapse-related proteins (PSD95, SYN1, Synaptophysin), PK system-related proteins (PK2, PKR1, PKR2), and inflammation-related proteins (TNF-α, NF-κB p65). Immunohistochemistry showed that TMT resulted in elevated PK2 and PKR2 protein expression in the CA2 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus in mice, while PKR1 protein was not significantly altered. Network pharmacology showed that PK2 could interact with the intersectional targets of ARS, CNS injury, and TMT. ARS remarkably attenuated TMT-induced seizures and hippocampal histological damage. Further studies demonstrated that ARS treatment attenuated TMT-induced hippocampal ultrastructural damage, possibly by increasing the number of rough endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria as well as upregulating the levels of synapse-associated proteins (PSD95, SYN1, Synaptophysin). Western blotting results revealed that ARS downregulated TMT-induced TNF-α and NF-κB p65 protein levels. In addition, ARS also decreased TMT-induced protein expression of PK2 and PKR2 in the mouse hippocampus, but had no significant effect on PKR1 protein expression. Our results suggested that ARS ameliorated TMT-induced abnormal neural behavior and hippocampal injury, which may be achieved by regulating PK2/PKRs inflammatory pathway and ameliorating synaptic injury. Therefore, we suggest that PK2/PKRs pathway may be involved in TMT neurotoxicity and ARS may be a promising drug that can relieve TMT neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, 437100, China; School of Stomatology and Ophthalmology, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, 437100, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Wenli Liao
- Basic Medical School, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Ruyi Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Yining Lei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Manqin Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Xinran Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China
| | - Fei Cai
- School of Stomatology and Ophthalmology, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, 437100, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning 437100, China.
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23
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Schirinzi T, Lattanzi R, Maftei D, Grillo P, Zenuni H, Boffa L, Albanese M, Simonetta C, Bovenzi R, Maurizi R, Loccisano L, Vincenzi M, Greco A, Di Girolamo S, Mercuri NB, Passali FM, Severini C. Substance P and Prokineticin-2 are overexpressed in olfactory neurons and play differential roles in persons with persistent post-COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 108:302-308. [PMID: 36549578 PMCID: PMC9760596 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD) is one of the most complaining and worrying complications of long COVID-19 because of the potential long-term neurological consequences. While causes of OD in the acute phases of the SARS-CoV-2 infection have been figured out, reasons for persistent OD are still unclear. Here we investigated the activity of two inflammatory pathways tightly linked with olfaction pathophysiology, namely Substance P (SP) and Prokineticin-2 (PK2), directly within the olfactory neurons (ONs) of patients to understand mechanisms of persistent post-COVID-19 OD. ONs were collected by non-invasive brushing from ten patients with persistent post-COVID-19 OD and ten healthy controls. Gene expression levels of SP, Neurokinin receptor 1, Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), PK2, PK2 receptors type 1 and 2, and Prokineticin-2-long peptide were measured in ONs by Real Time-PCR in both the groups, and correlated with residual olfaction. Immunofluorescence staining was also performed to quantify SP and PK2 proteins. OD patients, compared to controls, exhibited increased levels of both SP and PK2 in ONs, the latter proportional to residual olfaction. This work provided unprecedented, preliminary evidence that both SP and PK2 pathways may have a role in persistent post-COVID-19 OD. Namely, if the sustained activation of SP, lasting months after infection's resolution, might foster chronic inflammation and contribute to hyposmia, the PK2 expression could instead support the smell recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Schirinzi
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio Grillo
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Henri Zenuni
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Boffa
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Albanese
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Clara Simonetta
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Bovenzi
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Maurizi
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Loccisano
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “V. Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Greco
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Girolamo
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola B. Mercuri
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco M. Passali
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Severini
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council of Italy, Rome, Italy
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24
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Chen FL, Yin HY, Tang Y. PROK2-PROKR2 Signaling: New Contributor to Pleasant Touch. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:356-358. [PMID: 35960443 PMCID: PMC9905350 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00940-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Lin Chen
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Hai-Yan Yin
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
- Acupuncture and Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Yong Tang
- School of Acupuncture and Tuina, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
- Acupuncture and Chronobiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610075, China.
- School of Health and Rehabilitation, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
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25
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Hu Y, Qi S, Zhuang H, Zhuo Q, Liang Y, Kong H, Zhao C, Zhang S. Proteotranscriptomic analyses reveal distinct interferon-beta signaling pathways and therapeutic targets in choroidal neovascularization. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1163739. [PMID: 37025993 PMCID: PMC10071000 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1163739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the onset of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Methods Integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of retinas in mice with laser-induced CNV were performed using RNA sequencing and tandem mass tag. In addition, the laser-treated mice received systemic interferon-β (IFN-β) therapy. Measurements of CNV lesions were acquired by the confocal analysis of stained choroidal flat mounts. The proportions of T helper 17 (Th17) cells were determined by flow cytometric analysis. Results A total of differentially expressed 186 genes (120 up-regulated and 66 down-regulated) and 104 proteins (73 up-regulated and 31 down-regulated) were identified. The gene ontology and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that CNV was mainly associated with immune and inflammatory responses, such as cellular response to IFN-β and Th17 cell differentiation. Moreover, the key nodes of the protein-protein interaction network mainly involved up-regulated proteins, including alpha A crystallin and fibroblast growth factor 2, and were verified by Western blotting. To confirm the changes in gene expression, real-time quantitative PCR was performed. Furthermore, levels of IFN-β in both the retina and plasma, as measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), were significantly lower in the CNV group than in the control group. IFN-β treatment significantly reduced CNV lesion size and promoted the proliferation of Th17 cells in laser-treated mice. Conclusions This study demonstrates that the occurrence of CNV might be associated with the dysfunction of immune and inflammatory processes and that IFN-β could serve as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Chen Zhao
- *Correspondence: Chen Zhao, ; Shujie Zhang,
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26
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Schirinzi T, Maftei D, Passali FM, Grillo P, Zenuni H, Mascioli D, Maurizi R, Loccisano L, Vincenzi M, Rinaldi AM, Ralli M, Di Girolamo S, Stefani A, Lattanzi R, Severini C, Mercuri NB. Olfactory Neuron Prokineticin-2 as a Potential Target in Parkinson's Disease. Ann Neurol 2023; 93:196-204. [PMID: 36218142 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to outline the dynamics of prokineticin-2 pathway in relation to clinical-pathological features of Parkinson's disease by examining olfactory neurons of patients. METHODS Thirty-eight patients (26 de novo, newly diagnosed) and 31 sex/age-matched healthy controls underwent noninvasive mucosa brushing for olfactory neurons collection, and standard clinical assessment. Gene expression levels of prokineticin-2, prokineticin-2 receptors type 1 and 2, and prokineticin-2-long peptide were measured in olfactory neurons by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR); moreover, the prokineticin-2 protein and α-synuclein species (total and oligomeric) were quantified by immunofluorescence staining. RESULTS Prokineticin-2 expression was significantly increased in Parkinson's disease. De novo patients had higher prokineticin-2 levels, directly correlated with Movement Disorder Society-Sponsored Revision of the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) part III motor score. In addition, oligomeric α-synuclein was higher in Parkinson's disease and directly correlated with prokineticin-2 protein levels. Total α-synuclein did not differ between patients and controls. INTERPRETATION Prokineticin-2 is a chemokine showing neuroprotective effects in experimental models of Parkinson's disease, but translational proof of its role in patients is still lacking. Here, we used olfactory neurons as the ideal tissue to analyze molecular stages of neurodegeneration in vivo, providing unprecedented evidence that the prokineticin-2 pathway is activated in patients with Parkinson's disease. Specifically, prokineticin-2 expression in olfactory neurons was higher at early disease stages, proportional to motor severity, and associated with oligomeric α-synuclein accumulation. These data, consistently with preclinical findings, support prokineticin-2 as a candidate target in Parkinson's disease, and validate reliability of olfactory neurons to reflect pathological changes of the disease. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:196-204.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Schirinzi
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer,", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco M Passali
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Piergiorgio Grillo
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Henri Zenuni
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Mascioli
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Maurizi
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Loccisano
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer,", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Rinaldi
- Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Ralli
- Department of Sense Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Girolamo
- Unit of ENT, Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Stefani
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer,", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Severini
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council of Italy, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola B Mercuri
- Unit of Neurology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,European Centre for Brain Research, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
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27
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Locally organised and activated Fth1 hi neutrophils aggravate inflammation of acute lung injury in an IL-10-dependent manner. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7703. [PMID: 36513690 PMCID: PMC9745290 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35492-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a common respiratory critical syndrome with no effective therapeutic intervention. Neutrophils function in the overwhelming inflammatory process of acute lung injury (ALI) caused by ARDS; however, the phenotypic heterogeneity of pulmonary neutrophils in ALI/ARDS remains largely unknown. Here, using single-cell RNA sequencing, we identify two transcriptionally and functionally heterogeneous neutrophil populations (Fth1hi Neu and Prok2hi Neu) with distinct locations in LPS-induced ALI mouse lungs. Exposure to LPS promotes the Fth1hi Neu subtype, with more inflammatory factors, stronger antioxidant, and decreased apoptosis under the regulation of interleukin-10. Furthermore, prolonged retention of Fth1hi Neu within lung tissue aggravates inflammatory injury throughout the development of ALI/ARDS. Notably, ARDS patients have high ratios of Fth1 to Prok2 expression in pulmonary neutrophils, suggesting that the Fth1hi Neu population may promote the pathological development and provide a marker of poor outcome.
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28
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Non-Peptide Agonists and Antagonists of the Prokineticin Receptors. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:6323-6332. [PMID: 36547092 PMCID: PMC9776816 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44120431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The prokineticin family comprises a group of secreted peptides that can be classified as chemokines based on their structural features and chemotactic and immunomodulatory functions. Prokineticins (PKs) bind with high affinity to two G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Prokineticin receptor 1 (PKR1) and prokineticin receptor 2 (PKR2) are involved in a variety of physiological functions such as angiogenesis and neurogenesis, hematopoiesis, the control of hypothalamic hormone secretion, the regulation of circadian rhythm and the modulation of complex behaviors such as feeding and drinking. Dysregulation of the system leads to an inflammatory process that is the substrate for many pathological conditions such as cancer, pain, neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The use of PKR's antagonists reduces PK2/PKRs upregulation triggered by various inflammatory processes, suggesting that a pharmacological blockade of PKRs may be a successful strategy to treat inflammatory/neuroinflammatory diseases, at least in rodents. Under certain circumstances, the PK system exhibits protective/neuroprotective effects, so PKR agonists have also been developed to modulate the prokineticin system.
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29
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Chauhan S, Behl T, Sehgal A, Singh S, Sharma N, Gupta S, Albratty M, Najmi A, Meraya AM, Alhazmi HA. Understanding the Intricate Role of Exosomes in Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's Disease. Neurotox Res 2022; 40:1758-1773. [PMID: 36564606 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-022-00621-4] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease causes loss of memory and deterioration of mental abilities is utmost predominant neurodegenerative disease accounting 70-80% cases of dementia. The appearance of plaques of amyloid-β and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain post-mortems of Alzheimer's patients established them as key participants in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease. Exosomes exist as extracellular vesicles of nano-size which are present throughout the body. Exosomes are known to spread toxic hyperphosphorylated tau and amyloid-β between the cells and are linked to the loss of neurons by inducing apoptosis. Exosomes have progressed from cell trashcans to multifunctional organelles which are involved in various functions like internalisation and transmission of macromolecules such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. This review covers current findings on relationship of exosomes in biogenesis and angiogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and functions of exosomes in the etiology of AD. Furthermore, the roles of exosomes in development, diagnosis, treatment, and its importance as therapeutic targets and biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease have also been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Chauhan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- School of Health Sciences, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Uttarakhand, Dehradun, 248007, India.
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- GHG Khalsa College of Pharmacy, Sadhar, Ludhiana, Punjab, Gurusar, 141104, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Haryana, Mullana-Ambala, 133207, India.
| | - Neelam Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Haryana, Mullana-Ambala, 133207, India
| | - Sumeet Gupta
- Department of Pharmacology, MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Haryana, Mullana-Ambala, 133207, India
| | - Mohammed Albratty
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asim Najmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulkarim M Meraya
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jazan Uniersity, Jazan, 45124, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A Alhazmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jzan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Centre, Jzan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
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30
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Zalpoor H, Aziziyan F, Liaghat M, Bakhtiyari M, Akbari A, Nabi-Afjadi M, Forghaniesfidvajani R, Rezaei N. The roles of metabolic profiles and intracellular signaling pathways of tumor microenvironment cells in angiogenesis of solid tumors. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:186. [PMID: 36419156 PMCID: PMC9684800 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00951-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate and adaptive immune cells patrol and survey throughout the human body and sometimes reside in the tumor microenvironment (TME) with a variety of cell types and nutrients that may differ from those in which they developed. The metabolic pathways and metabolites of immune cells are rooted in cell physiology, and not only provide nutrients and energy for cell growth and survival but also influencing cell differentiation and effector functions. Nowadays, there is a growing awareness that metabolic processes occurring in cancer cells can affect immune cell function and lead to tumor immune evasion and angiogenesis. In order to safely treat cancer patients and prevent immune checkpoint blockade-induced toxicities and autoimmunity, we suggest using anti-angiogenic drugs solely or combined with Immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) to boost the safety and effectiveness of cancer therapy. As a consequence, there is significant and escalating attention to discovering techniques that target metabolism as a new method of cancer therapy. In this review, a summary of immune-metabolic processes and their potential role in the stimulation of intracellular signaling in TME cells that lead to tumor angiogenesis, and therapeutic applications is provided. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Zalpoor
- grid.412571.40000 0000 8819 4698Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran ,grid.510410.10000 0004 8010 4431Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Aziziyan
- grid.510410.10000 0004 8010 4431Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran ,grid.412266.50000 0001 1781 3962Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Liaghat
- grid.510410.10000 0004 8010 4431Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran ,Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Kazerun Branch, Kazerun, Iran
| | - Maryam Bakhtiyari
- grid.510410.10000 0004 8010 4431Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran ,grid.412606.70000 0004 0405 433XDepartment of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Abdullatif Akbari
- grid.412571.40000 0000 8819 4698Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran ,grid.510410.10000 0004 8010 4431Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Nabi-Afjadi
- grid.412266.50000 0001 1781 3962Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Razieh Forghaniesfidvajani
- grid.510410.10000 0004 8010 4431Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- grid.510410.10000 0004 8010 4431Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy & Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education & Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran ,grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Gharib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, Iran ,grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Maftei D, Schirinzi T, Mercuri NB, Lattanzi R, Severini C. Potential Clinical Role of Prokineticin 2 (PK2) in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:2019-2023. [PMID: 35410604 PMCID: PMC9886845 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220411084612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of the immune system in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) has become clear in recent decades, as evidenced by the presence of activated microglia and astrocytes and numerous soluble mediators in the brain and peripheral tissues of affected patients. Among inflammatory mediators, chemokines play a central role in neuroinflammation due to their dual function as chemoattractants for immune cells and molecular messengers in crosstalk among CNS-resident cells. The chemokine Bv8/Prokineticin 2 (PK2) has recently emerged as an important player in many age-related and chronic diseases that are either neurodegenerative or systemic. In this perspective paper, we briefly discuss the role that PK2 and its cognate receptors play in AD and PD animal models and in patients. Given the apparent changes in PK2 blood levels in both AD and PD patients, the potential clinical value of PK2 either as a disease biomarker or as a therapeutic target for these disorders is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; ,These authors contributed equally to the work.
| | - Tommaso Schirinzi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; ,These authors contributed equally to the work.
| | - Nicola B. Mercuri
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy; ,IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy;
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; ,These authors contributed equally to the work.
| | - Cinzia Severini
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council of Italy, Italy,Address correspondence to this author at the Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council of Italy, Viale del Policlinico, 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; Tel: +39-6-49976742; E-mail:
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Zhang W, Zhang Y, Hu N, Wang A. Alzheimer's disease-associated inflammatory pathways might contribute to osteoporosis through the interaction between PROK2 and CSF3. Front Neurol 2022; 13:990779. [PMID: 36203970 PMCID: PMC9531648 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.990779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the potential molecular pathways and targets of Alzheimer's disease leading to osteoporosis using bioinformatics tools. The Alzheimer's and osteoporosis microarray gene expression data were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus, and differentially expressed genes in the blood microenvironment related to Alzheimer's disease and osteoporosis were identified. The intersection of the three datasets (GSE97760, GSE168813, and GSE62402) was used to obtain 21 co-expressed targets in the peripheral blood samples in patients with Alzheimer's disease and osteoporosis. Based on the degree algorithm, the top 10 potential core target genes related to these diseases were identified, which included CLEC4D, PROK2, SIGLEC7, PDGFB, PTCRA, ECH1, etc. Two differentially expressed mRNAs, Prokineticin 2 (PROK2) and three colony-stimulating factor 3 (CSF3), were screened in the GSE62402 dataset associated with osteoporosis. Protein–protein rigid docking with ZDOCK revealed that PROK2 and CSF3 could form a stable protein docking model. The interaction of PROK2 and CSF3, core genes related to osteoporosis inflammation, plays an important role in the mechanism of osteoporosis in patients with Alzheimer's. Therefore, abnormalities or alterations in the inflammatory pathways in the peripheral blood samples of Alzheimer's patients may affect the course of osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzheng Zhang
- Department of Joint Sports Medicine, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, China
| | - Ya Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, China
| | - Naixia Hu
- Neurointensive Care Unit, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, China
| | - Anying Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, China
- *Correspondence: Anying Wang
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Benguigui M, Vorontsova A, Timaner M, Levin S, Haj-Shomaly J, Deo A, Menachem R, Manobla B, Cooper TJ, Raviv Z, Shaked Y. Bv8 Blockade Sensitizes Anti-PD1 Therapy Resistant Tumors. Front Immunol 2022; 13:903591. [PMID: 35874722 PMCID: PMC9301046 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.903591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are known to promote tumor growth in part by their immunosuppressive activities and their angiogenesis support. It has been shown that Bv8 blockade inhibits the recruitment of MDSCs to tumors, thereby delaying tumor relapse associated with resistance to antiangiogenic therapy. However, the impact of Bv8 blockade on tumors resistant to the new immunotherapy drugs based on the blockade of immune checkpoints has not been investigated. Here, we demonstrate that granulocytic-MDSCs (G-MDSCs) are enriched in anti-PD1 resistant tumors. Importantly, resistance to anti-PD1 monotherapy is reversed upon switching to a combined regimen comprised of anti-Bv8 and anti-PD1 antibodies. This effect is associated with a decreased level of G-MDSCs and enrichment of active cytotoxic T cells in tumors. The blockade of anti-Bv8 has shown efficacy also in hyperprogressive phenotype of anti-PD1-treated tumors. In vitro, anti-Bv8 antibodies directly inhibit MDSC-mediated immunosuppression, as evidenced by enhanced tumor cell killing activity of cytotoxic T cells. Lastly, we show that anti-Bv8-treated MDSCs secrete proteins associated with effector immune cell function and T cell activity. Overall, we demonstrate that Bv8 blockade inhibits the immunosuppressive function of MDSCs, thereby enhancing anti-tumor activity of cytotoxic T cells and sensitizing anti-PD1 resistant tumors. Our findings suggest that combining Bv8 blockade with anti-PD1 therapy can be used as a strategy for overcoming therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Benguigui
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Avital Vorontsova
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Michael Timaner
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Sapir Levin
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jozafina Haj-Shomaly
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Abhilash Deo
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Rotem Menachem
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Faculty of Chemical engineering, Technion- Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Bar Manobla
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tim J. Cooper
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Immunology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ziv Raviv
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yuval Shaked
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- *Correspondence: Yuval Shaked,
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Lattanzi R, Severini C, Miele R. Prokineticin 2 in cancer-related inflammation. Cancer Lett 2022; 546:215838. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Conway Morris A. New Movement in Sepsis Immunotherapeutics-A Role for Prokineticin 2? Crit Care Med 2022; 50:714-716. [PMID: 35311783 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000005375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Conway Morris
- Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- John V Farman Intensive Care Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Yu X, Chen J, Tang H, Tu Q, Li Y, Yuan X, Zhang X, Cao J, Molloy DP, Yin Y, Chen D, Song Z, Xu P. Identifying Prokineticin2 as a Novel Immunomodulatory Factor in Diagnosis and Treatment of Sepsis. Crit Care Med 2022; 50:674-684. [PMID: 34582411 PMCID: PMC8923365 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000005335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sepsis remains a highly lethal disease, whereas the precise reasons for death remain poorly understood. Prokineticin2 is a secreted protein that regulates diverse biological processes. Whether prokineticin2 is beneficial or deleterious to sepsis and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. DESIGN Prospective randomized animal investigation and in vitro studies. SETTING Research laboratory at a medical university hospital. SUBJECTS Prokineticin2 deficiency and wild-type C57BL/6 mice were used for in vivo studies; sepsis patients by Sepsis-3 definitions, patient controls, and healthy controls were used to obtain blood for in vitro studies. INTERVENTIONS Prokineticin2 concentrations were measured and analyzed in human septic patients, patient controls, and healthy individuals. The effects of prokineticin2 on sepsis-related survival, bacterial burden, organ injury, and inflammation were assessed in an animal model of cecal ligation and puncture-induced polymicrobial sepsis. In vitro cell models were also used to study the role of prokineticin2 on antibacterial response of macrophages. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Prokineticin2 concentration is dramatically decreased in the patients with sepsis and septic shock compared with those of patient controls and healthy controls. Furthermore, the prokineticin2 concentration in these patients died of sepsis or septic shock is significantly lower than those survival patients with sepsis or septic shock, indicating the potential value of prokineticin2 in the diagnosis of sepsis and septic shock, as well as the potential value in predicting mortality in adult patients with sepsis and septic shock. In animal model, recombinant prokineticin2 administration protected against sepsis-related deaths in both heterozygous prokineticin2 deficient mice and wild-type mice and alleviated sepsis-induced multiple organ damage. In in vitro cell models, prokineticin2 enhanced the phagocytic and bactericidal functions of macrophage through signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 pathway which could be abolished by signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 inhibitors S3I-201. Depletion of macrophages reversed prokineticin2-mediated protection against polymicrobial sepsis. CONCLUSIONS This study elucidated a previously unrecognized role of prokineticin2 in clinical diagnosis and treatment of sepsis. The proof-of-concept study determined a central role of prokineticin2 in alleviating sepsis-induced death by regulation of macrophage function, which presents a new strategy for sepsis immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingyi Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Tang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Surgical Intensive Care Unit, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qianqian Tu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Molecular Medicine and Cancer Research Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xi Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuemei Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ju Cao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - David Paul Molloy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, ChongQing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yibing Yin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dapeng Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhixin Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Chongqing, China
| | - Pingyong Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Infection and Immunity, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Fullone MR, Maftei D, Vincenzi M, Lattanzi R, Miele R. Identification of Regions Involved in the Physical Interaction between Melanocortin Receptor Accessory Protein 2 and Prokineticin Receptor 2. Biomolecules 2022; 12:474. [PMID: 35327666 PMCID: PMC8946000 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanocortin Receptor Accessory Protein 2 (MRAP2) modulates the trafficking and signal transduction of several G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) involved in the control of energy homeostasis, such as Prokineticin receptors (PKRs). They bind the endogenous ligand prokineticin 2 (PK2), a novel adipokine that has an anorexic effect and modulates thermoregulation and energy homeostasis. In the present work, we used biochemical techniques to analyze the mechanism of interaction of MRAP2 with PKR2 and we identified the specific amino acid regions involved in the complex formation. Our results indicate that MRAP2 likely binds to the N-terminal region of PKR2, preventing glycosylation and consequently the correct receptor localization. We also identified a C-terminal region of MRAP2 that is critical for the interaction with PKR2. Consequently, we analyzed the role of the prokineticin transduction system in the regulation of MRAP2 expression in tissues involved in the control of food intake: at the central level, in hypothalamic explants, and at the peripheral level, in adipocytes. We demonstrated the modulation of MRAP2 expression by the prokineticin transduction system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.); (R.L.)
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.); (R.L.)
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.); (R.L.)
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
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Lattanzi R, Maftei D, Vincenzi M, Fullone MR, Miele R. Identification and Characterization of a New Splicing Variant of Prokineticin 2. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:248. [PMID: 35207535 PMCID: PMC8876856 DOI: 10.3390/life12020248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prokineticin 2 (PROK2) is a secreted bioactive peptide that regulates a variety of biological responses via two GPCRs, the prokineticin receptors (PROKRs). The aim of this study was to characterize a new alternatively spliced product of the prok2 gene consisting of four exons. The 40-amino acid peptide, designated PROK2C, is encoded by exon 1 and exon 4, and its expression was detected in the hippocampus and spinal cord of mice. PROK2C was expressed in a heterologous system, Pichia pastoris, and its binding specificity to the amino-terminal regions of PROKR1 and PROKR2 was investigated by GST pull-down experiments. In addition, the introduction of the unnatural amino acid p-benzoyl-L-phenylalanine using amber codon suppression technology demonstrated the role of tryptophan at position 212 of PROKR2 for PROK2C binding by photoactivatable cross-linking. The functional significance of this new isoform was determined in vivo by nociceptive experiments, which showed that PROK2C elicits strong sensitization of peripheral nociceptors to painful stimuli. In order to analyze the induction of PROK2C signal transduction, STAT3 and ERK phosphorylation levels were determined in mammalian CHO cells expressing PROKR1 and PROKR2. Our data show by in vivo and in vitro experiments that PROK2C can bind and activate both prokineticin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Maria Rosaria Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
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Lattanzi R, Miele R. Prokineticin-Receptor Network: Mechanisms of Regulation. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:172. [PMID: 35207461 PMCID: PMC8877203 DOI: 10.3390/life12020172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prokineticins are a new class of chemokine-like peptides that bind their G protein-coupled receptors, PKR1 and PKR2, and promote chemotaxis and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines following tissue injury or infection. This review summarizes the major cellular and biochemical mechanisms of prokineticins pathway regulation that, like other chemokines, include: genetic polymorphisms; mRNA splice modulation; expression regulation at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels; prokineticins interactions with cell-surface glycosaminoglycans; PKRs degradation, localization, post-translational modifications and oligomerization; alternative signaling responses; binding to pharmacological inhibitors. Understanding these mechanisms, which together exert substantial biochemical control and greatly enhance the complexity of the prokineticin-receptor network, leads to novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention. In this way, besides targeting prokineticins or their receptors directly, it could be possible to indirectly influence their activity by modulating their expression and localization or blocking the downstream signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli”, CNR-Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
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40
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Lattanzi R, Miele R. Versatile Role of Prokineticins and Prokineticin Receptors in Neuroinflammation. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1648. [PMID: 34829877 PMCID: PMC8615546 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Prokineticins are a new class of chemokine-like peptides involved in a wide range of biological and pathological activities. In particular, prokineticin 2 (PK2), prokineticin receptor 1 (PKR1) and prokineticin receptor 2 (PKR2) play a central role in modulating neuroinflammatory processes. PK2 and PKRs, which are physiologically expressed at very low levels, are strongly upregulated during inflammation and regulate neuronal-glial interaction. PKR2 is mainly overexpressed in neurons, whereas PKR1 and PK2 are mainly overexpressed in astrocytes. Once PK2 is released in inflamed tissue, it is involved in both innate and adaptive responses: it triggers macrophage recruitment, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and reduction of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, it modulates the function of T cells through the activation of PKR1 and directs them towards a pro-inflammatory Th1 phenotype. Since the prokineticin system appears to be upregulated following a series of pathological insults leading to neuroinflammation, we will focus here on the involvement of PK2 and PKRs in those pathologies that have a strong underlying inflammatory component, such as: inflammatory and neuropathic pain, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, obesity, diabetes, and gastrointestinal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli”, CNR Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
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Interplay between Prokineticins and Histone Demethylase KDM6A in a Murine Model of Bortezomib-Induced Neuropathy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111913. [PMID: 34769347 PMCID: PMC8584499 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIN) is a major adverse effect associated with many chemotherapeutics, including bortezomib (BTZ). Several mechanisms are involved in CIN, and recently a role has been proposed for prokineticins (PKs), a chemokine family that induces proinflammatory/pro-algogen mediator release and drives the epigenetic control of genes involved in cellular differentiation. The present study evaluated the relationships between epigenetic mechanisms and PKs in a mice model of BTZ-induced painful neuropathy. To this end, spinal cord alterations of histone demethylase KDM6A, nuclear receptors PPARα/PPARγ, PK2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β were assessed in neuropathic mice treated with the PK receptors (PKRs) antagonist PC1. BTZ treatment promoted a precocious upregulation of KDM6A, PPARs, and IL-6, and a delayed increase of PK2 and IL-1β. PC1 counteracted allodynia and prevented the increase of PK2 and of IL-1β in BTZ neuropathic mice. The blockade of PKRs signaling also opposed to KDM6A increase and induced an upregulation of PPAR gene transcription. These data showed the involvement of epigenetic modulatory enzymes in spinal tissue phenomena associated with BTZ painful neuropathy and underline a role of PKs in sustaining the increase of proinflammatory cytokines and in exerting an inhibitory control on the expression of PPARs through the regulation of KDM6A gene expression in the spinal cord.
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Li K, Shi H, Zhang B, Ou X, Ma Q, Chen Y, Shu P, Li D, Wang Y. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells as immunosuppressive regulators and therapeutic targets in cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:362. [PMID: 34620838 PMCID: PMC8497485 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00670-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogenic population of immature myeloid cells with immunosuppressive effects, which undergo massive expansion during tumor progression. These cells not only support immune escape directly but also promote tumor invasion via various non-immunological activities. Besides, this group of cells are proved to impair the efficiency of current antitumor strategies such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Therefore, MDSCs are considered as potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. Treatment strategies targeting MDSCs have shown promising outcomes in both preclinical studies and clinical trials when administrated alone, or in combination with other anticancer therapies. In this review, we shed new light on recent advances in the biological characteristics and immunosuppressive functions of MDSCs. We also hope to propose an overview of current MDSCs-targeting therapies so as to provide new ideas for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Li
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Houhui Shi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Benxia Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuejin Ou
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Qizhi Ma
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Pei Shu
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Li
- Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, and Precision Medicine Center, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yongsheng Wang
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center, 610041, Chengdu, China. .,Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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43
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Fiore M, Tarani L, Radicioni A, Spaziani M, Ferraguti G, Putotto C, Gabanella F, Maftei D, Lattanzi R, Minni A, Greco A, Tarani F, Petrella C. Serum Prokineticin-2 in Prepubertal and Adult Klinefelter Individuals. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2021; 100:151-157. [PMID: 34614364 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2021-0457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The prokineticin-2 (PROK2) is a small peptide belonging to the prokineticin family. In humans and rodents this chemokine is primarily involved in the control of central and peripheral reproductive processes. Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) is the first cause of male genetic infertility, due to an extra X chromosome, which may occur with a classical karyotype (47, XXY) or mosaic forms (46, XY/47, XXY). In affected subjects, pubertal maturation usually begins at an adequate chronological age, but when development is almost complete, they display a primary gonadal failure, with early spermatogenesis damage, and later onset of testosterone insufficiency. Thus, the main aim of the present study was to investigate the serum levels of PROK2 in prepubertal and adult KS patients, comparing them with healthy subjects. We showed for the first time the presence of PROK2 in the children serum but with significant changes in KS individuals. Indeed, compared to healthy subjects characterized by PROK2 serum elevation during the growth, KS individuals showed constant serum levels during the sexual maturation phase (higher during the prepubertal phase but lower during the adult age). In conclusion, these data indicate that in KS individuals PROK2 may be considered a biomarker for investigating the SK infertility process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Fiore
- IBCN-CNR, Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Roma, Italy;
| | - Luigi Tarani
- "Sapienza" University of Rome, Department of Pediatrics, Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio Radicioni
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Experimental Medicine, Rome, Italy;
| | - Matteo Spaziani
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Experimental Medicine, Rome, Italy;
| | - Giampiero Ferraguti
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Cellular Biotechnologies and Hematology, Rome, Italy;
| | - Carolina Putotto
- "Sapienza" University of Rome, Department of Pediatrics, rome, Italy;
| | - Francesca Gabanella
- IBBC-CNR), Rome, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology (IBPM-CNR), Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Rome, Italy;
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio Minni
- Sapienza University of Rome, Department of Sense Organs, Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio Greco
- University of Rome La Sapienza, 9311, Rome, Lazio, Italy;
| | - Francesca Tarani
- "Sapienza" University of Rome, Department of Pediatrics, rome, Italy;
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Amodeo G, Verduci B, Sartori P, Procacci P, Conte V, Balboni G, Sacerdote P, Franchi S. The Antagonism of the Prokineticin System Counteracts Bortezomib Induced Side Effects: Focus on Mood Alterations. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910256. [PMID: 34638592 PMCID: PMC8508359 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of neuropathy and of mood alterations is frequent after chemotherapy. These complications, independent from the antitumoral mechanism, are interconnected due to an overlapping in their processing pathways and a common neuroinflammatory condition. This study aims to verify whether in mice the treatment with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ), at a protocol capable of inducing painful neuropathy, is associated with anxiety, depression and supraspinal neuroinflammation. We also verify if the therapeutic treatment with the antagonist of the prokineticin (PK) system PC1, which is known to contrast pain and neuroinflammation, can prevent mood alterations. Mice were treated with BTZ (0.4 mg/kg three times/week for 4 weeks); mechanical allodynia and locomotor activity were evaluated over time while anxiety (dark light and marble burying test), depression (sucrose preference and swimming test) and supraspinal neuroinflammation were checked at the end of the protocol. BTZ treated neuropathic mice develop anxiety and depression. The presence of mood alterations is related to the presence of neuroinflammation and PK system activation in prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus with high levels of PK2 and PKR2 receptor, IL-6 and TNF-α, TLR4 and an upregulation of glial markers. PC1 treatment, counteracting pain, prevented the development of supraspinal inflammation and depression-like behavior in BTZ mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Amodeo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milan, Italy; (G.A.); (B.V.); (P.S.)
| | - Benedetta Verduci
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milan, Italy; (G.A.); (B.V.); (P.S.)
| | - Patrizia Sartori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.S.); (P.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Patrizia Procacci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.S.); (P.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Vincenzo Conte
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Colombo 71, 20133 Milan, Italy; (P.S.); (P.P.); (V.C.)
| | - Gianfranco Balboni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale 72, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Paola Sacerdote
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milan, Italy; (G.A.); (B.V.); (P.S.)
| | - Silvia Franchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Vanvitelli 32, 20129 Milan, Italy; (G.A.); (B.V.); (P.S.)
- Correspondence:
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45
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Li Y, Zhou T, Su YF, Hu ZY, Wei JJ, Wang W, Liu CY, Zhao K, Zhang HP. Prokineticin 2 overexpression induces spermatocyte apoptosis in varicocele in rats. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:500-506. [PMID: 31744994 PMCID: PMC7523614 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_109_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is one of the most important causes of male infertility, as this condition leads to a decline in sperm quality. It is generally believed that the presence of varicocele induces an increase in reactive oxygen species levels, leading to oxidative stress and sperm apoptosis; however, the specific pathogenic mechanisms affecting spermatogenesis remain elusive. Prokineticin 2 (PK2), a secretory protein, is associated with multiple biological processes, including cell migration, proliferation, and apoptosis. In the testis, PK2 is expressed in spermatocytes under normal physiological conditions. To investigate the role of PK2 in varicocele, a rat varicocele model was established to locate and quantify the expression of PK2 and its receptor, prokineticin receptor 1 (PKR1), by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR assays (qPCR). Moreover, H2O2 was applied to mimic the oxidative stress state of varicocele through coculturing with a spermatocyte-derived cell line (GC-2) in vitro, and the apoptosis rate was detected by flow cytometry. Here, we illustrated that the expression levels of PK2 and PKR1 were upregulated in the spermatocytes of the rat model. Administration of H2O2 stimulated the overexpression of PK2 in GC-2. Transfection of recombinant pCMV-HA-PK2 into GC-2 cells promoted apoptosis by upregulating cleaved-caspase-3, caspase-8, and B cell lymphoma 2-associated X; downregulating B cell lymphoma 2; and promoting the accumulation of intracellular calcium. Overall, we revealed that the varicocele-induced oxidative stress stimulated the overexpression of PK2, leading to apoptosis of spermatocytes. Our study provides new insight into the mechanisms underlying oxidative stress-associated male infertility and suggests a novel therapeutic target for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ting Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huangzhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yu-Fang Su
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Zhi-Yong Hu
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jia-Jing Wei
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Chun-Yan Liu
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Hui-Ping Zhang
- Family Planning Research Institute/Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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46
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Bao Z, Liu Y, Chen B, Miao Z, Tu Y, Li C, Chao H, Ye Y, Xu X, Sun G, Zhao P, Liu N, Liu Y, Wang X, Lam SM, Kagan VE, Bayır H, Ji J. Prokineticin-2 prevents neuronal cell deaths in a model of traumatic brain injury. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4220. [PMID: 34244497 PMCID: PMC8270965 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24469-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Prokineticin-2 (Prok2) is an important secreted protein likely involved in the pathogenesis of several acute and chronic neurological diseases through currently unidentified regulatory mechanisms. The initial mechanical injury of neurons by traumatic brain injury triggers multiple secondary responses including various cell death programs. One of these is ferroptosis, which is associated with dysregulation of iron and thiols and culminates in fatal lipid peroxidation. Here, we explore the regulatory role of Prok2 in neuronal ferroptosis in vitro and in vivo. We show that Prok2 prevents neuronal cell death by suppressing the biosynthesis of lipid peroxidation substrates, arachidonic acid-phospholipids, via accelerated F-box only protein 10 (Fbxo10)-driven ubiquitination, degradation of long-chain-fatty-acid-CoA ligase 4 (Acsl4), and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Mice injected with adeno-associated virus-Prok2 before controlled cortical impact injury show reduced neuronal degeneration and improved motor and cognitive functions, which could be inhibited by Fbxo10 knockdown. Our study shows that Prok2 mediates neuronal cell deaths in traumatic brain injury via ferroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyuan Bao
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yinlong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Binglin Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zong Miao
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiming Tu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chong Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Honglu Chao
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yangfan Ye
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiupeng Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangchi Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pengzhan Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Institute for Stem Cell and Neural Regeneration, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Department of Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sin Man Lam
- LipidALL Technologies Company Limited, Changzhou, China
| | - Valerian E Kagan
- Center for Free Radical and Antioxidant Heath, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Laboratory of Navigational Redox Lipidomics, IM Sechenov Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Hülya Bayır
- Center for Free Radical and Antioxidant Heath, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Safar Center for Resuscitation Research, Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Children's Neuroscience Institute, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jing Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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Magnan C, Migrenne-Li S. Pleiotropic effects of prokineticin 2 in the control of energy metabolism. Biochimie 2021; 186:73-81. [PMID: 33932486 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prokineticins are family of small proteins involved in many important biological processes including food intake and control of energy balance. The prokineticin 2 (PROK2) is expressed in several peripheral tissues and areas in the central nervous system. PROK2 activates G protein-coupled receptors, namely, prokineticin receptor 1 (PROKR1) and prokineticin receptor 2 (PROKR2). Preclinical models exhibiting disturbances of the PROK2 pathway (at the level of PROK2 or its receptors) are characterized by changes in food intake, feeding behavior and insulin sensitivity related to a dysfunction of the energy balance control. In Humans, mutations of PROK2 and PROKR2 genes are associated to the Kallmann syndrome (KS) that affects both the hormonal reproductive axis and the sense of smell and may also lead to obesity. Moreover, plasma PROK2 concentration has been correlated with various cardiometabolic risk factors and type 2 diabetes (T2D). The present review summarizes knowledge on PROK2 structure, signaling and function focusing on its role in control of food intake and energy homeostasis.
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48
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Lattanzi R, Severini C, Maftei D, Saso L, Badiani A. The Role of Prokineticin 2 in Oxidative Stress and in Neuropathological Processes. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:640441. [PMID: 33732160 PMCID: PMC7956973 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.640441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The prokineticin (PK) family, prokineticin 1 and Bv8/prokineticin 2 (PROK2), initially discovered as regulators of gastrointestinal motility, interacts with two G protein-coupled receptors, PKR1 and PKR2, regulating important biological functions such as circadian rhythms, metabolism, angiogenesis, neurogenesis, muscle contractility, hematopoiesis, immune response, reproduction and pain perception. PROK2 and PK receptors, in particular PKR2, are widespread distributed in the central nervous system, in both neurons and glial cells. The PROK2 expression levels can be increased by a series of pathological insults, such as hypoxia, reactive oxygen species, beta amyloid and excitotoxic glutamate. This suggests that the PK system, participating in different cellular processes that cause neuronal death, can be a key mediator in neurological/neurodegenerative diseases. While many PROK2/PKRs effects in physiological processes have been documented, their role in neuropathological conditions is not fully clarified, since PROK2 can have a double function in the mechanisms underlying to neurodegeneration or neuroprotection. Here, we briefly outline the latest findings on the modulation of PROK2 and its cognate receptors following different pathological insults, providing information about their opposite neurotoxic and neuroprotective role in different pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Severini
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, IBBC, CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Badiani
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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49
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Fullone MR, Lattanzi R, Maftei D, Bonaccorsi MC, Miele R. Analysis of role of aromatic residues in extracellular loop 2 of Prokineticin receptor 2 in ligand binding probed with genetically encoded photo-crosslinkers. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2021; 1863:183549. [PMID: 33412090 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Prokineticin 2 (PK2) and Prokineticin 2 beta (PK2β), products of alternative splicing of pk2 gene, are chemokine-like proteins. While PK2 mediates its biological activities by signaling with the same efficiency through two homologous G protein coupled receptors, prokineticin receptor 1 (PKR1) and prokineticin receptor 2 (PKR2), PK2β is able to bind specifically PKR1. Extracellular loop 2 (ECL2) of chemokine receptors is a part of a transmembrane (TM) ligand binding site. In the ECL2 of PKR2 is present, as well as in all chemokine receptors, an aromatic residue cluster, involving tryptophan 212 localized four residues after an ECL2 conserved cysteine, and Phenylalanine 198 located in the top of TM 4. In this work, the photoactivatable unnatural amino acid p-benzoyl-L-phenylalanine is incorporated by amber codon suppression technology into PKR2 in position 212. Experiments of photoactivatable cross-linking demonstrated the role of tryptophan in position 212 for binding the ligand contacting Tryptophan in position 24. We also analyzed the role of Phenylalanine 198 in the specificity of PKRs binding. The comparison of TM-bundle binding sites between PKR1 and PKR2 revealed that they are completely conserved except for one residue: valine 207 in human PKR1, which is phenylalanine 198 in human PKR2. The F198V mutation in PKR2 permits to obtain a receptor able to bind more efficiently PK2β, a ligand highly specific for PKR1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Bonaccorsi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy.
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50
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Maftei D, Lattanzi R, Vincenzi M, Squillace S, Fullone MR, Miele R. The balance of concentration between Prokineticin 2β and Prokineticin 2 modulates the food intake by STAT3 signaling. BBA ADVANCES 2021; 1:100028. [PMID: 37082024 PMCID: PMC10074905 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadva.2021.100028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The secreted bioactive peptide prokineticin 2 (PK2) is a potent adipokine and its central and peripheral administration reduces food intake in rodents. The pk2 gene has two splice variants, PK2 and PK2L (PK2 long form), which is cleaved into an active peptide, PK2β, that preferentially binds prokineticin receptor 1 (PKR1). We investigated the role of PK2β in the regulation of food intake. We demonstrated that intraperitoneal injection of PK2β, in contrast to PK2, did not reduce food intake in mice. Exposure of hypotalamic explants to PK2, but not PK2β, induced phosphorylation of STAT3 and ERK. We also evidenced that in adipocytes from PKR1 knock-out mice, a model of obesity, there were higher PK2β levels than PK2 inducing a decreased activation of STAT3 and ERK. Our results suggest that variations in PK2 and PK2β levels, due to modulation of pk2 gene splicing processes, affect food intake in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Maftei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
- Corresponding author: Roberta Lattanzi, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer” Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Martina Vincenzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Squillace
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Fullone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli” and CNR-Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rossella Miele
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli” and CNR-Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy
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