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Crestini A, Carbone E, Rivabene R, Ancidoni A, Rosa P, Tata AM, Fabrizi E, Locuratolo N, Vanacore N, Lacorte E, Piscopo P. A Systematic Review on Drugs Acting as Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Agonists in the Treatment of Dementia. Cells 2024; 13:237. [PMID: 38334629 PMCID: PMC10854606 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030237] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Acetylcholine signaling is attenuated in early Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementias. A significant reduction in the expression of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the brain of AD patients has also been reported in several molecular biological and in situ labeling studies. The modulation of the functional deficit of the cholinergic system as a pharmacological target could therefore have a clinical benefit, which is not to be neglected. This systematic review was conducted to identify clinical trials, which evaluated the safety and efficacy of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists using Clinicaltrial (CT) and EudraCT databases. Structured searches identified 39 trials, which used 15 different drugs designed to increase the function of the nAChRs. Most of the identified clinical trials were phase II trials, with some of them classified as ongoing for several years. The systematic screening of the literature led to the selection of 14 studies out of the 8261 bibliographic records retrieved. Six trials reported detailed data on adverse events associated with the intervention, while twelve trials reported data on efficacy measures, such as attention, behavior and cognition. Overall, smost of the physical side effects of cholinergic agonists were reported to be well tolerated. Some trials also reported improvements in attention. However, the efficacy of these drugs in other cognitive and behavioral outcomes remains highly controversial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Crestini
- Department of Neuroscience, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (R.R.); (P.P.)
| | - Elena Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (R.R.); (P.P.)
| | - Roberto Rivabene
- Department of Neuroscience, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (R.R.); (P.P.)
| | - Antonio Ancidoni
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (N.L.); (N.V.); (E.L.)
| | - Paolo Rosa
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy;
- ICOT (Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery), 04100 Latina, Italy
| | - Ada Maria Tata
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Research Center in Neurobiology Daniel Bovet, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Fabrizi
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (N.L.); (N.V.); (E.L.)
- Doctoral School, The Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir, 46001 Valencia, Spain
| | - Nicoletta Locuratolo
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (N.L.); (N.V.); (E.L.)
| | - Nicola Vanacore
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (N.L.); (N.V.); (E.L.)
| | - Eleonora Lacorte
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.A.); (N.L.); (N.V.); (E.L.)
| | - Paola Piscopo
- Department of Neuroscience, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.C.); (R.R.); (P.P.)
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Chen L, Jiao J, Zhang Y. Therapeutic approaches for improving cognitive function in the aging brain. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1060556. [PMID: 36570840 PMCID: PMC9773601 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1060556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid aging of populations around the world has become an unprecedented challenge. Aging is associated with cognitive impairment, including dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Successful drug development for improving or maintaining cognition in the elderly is critically important. Although 4 drugs for improving cognition in Alzheimer's disease have been approved, a variety of potential drugs targeting age-related cognitive impairment are still in development. In addition, non-pharmacological interventions, including cognition-oriented treatments, non-invasive brain stimulation physical exercise, and lifestyle-related interventions, have also been suggested as cognitive enhancers in the last decade. In this paper, we reviewed the recent evidence of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving or maintaining cognition in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingmin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and The Research Units of West China (2018RU012), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Jiao
- Department of Anesthesiology and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and The Research Units of West China (2018RU012), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, China
| | - Yonggang Zhang
- Department of Periodical Press and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Yonggang Zhang,
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Delli Pizzi S, Granzotto A, Bomba M, Frazzini V, Onofrj M, Sensi SL. Acting Before; A Combined Strategy to Counteract the Onset and Progression of Dementia. Curr Alzheimer Res 2020; 17:790-804. [PMID: 33272186 DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666201203085524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Brain aging and aging-related neurodegenerative disorders are posing a significant challenge for health systems worldwide. To date, most of the therapeutic efforts aimed at counteracting dementiarelated behavioral and cognitive impairment have been focused on addressing putative determinants of the disease, such as β-amyloid or tau. In contrast, relatively little attention has been paid to pharmacological interventions aimed at restoring or promoting the synaptic plasticity of the aging brain. The review will explore and discuss the most recent molecular, structural/functional, and behavioral evidence that supports the use of non-pharmacological approaches as well as cognitive-enhancing drugs to counteract brain aging and early-stage dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Delli Pizzi
- Behavioral Neurology and Molecular Neurology Units, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, CAST, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | - Alberto Granzotto
- Behavioral Neurology and Molecular Neurology Units, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, CAST, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | - Manuela Bomba
- Behavioral Neurology and Molecular Neurology Units, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, CAST, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | - Valerio Frazzini
- AP-HP, Epilepsy Unit, Pitie-Salpetriere Hospital and Brain and Spine Institute (INSERM UMRS1127, CNRS UMR7225, Sorbonne Universite), Pitie-Salpetriere Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Marco Onofrj
- Behavioral Neurology and Molecular Neurology Units, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, CAST, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Pescara, Italy
| | - Stefano L Sensi
- Behavioral Neurology and Molecular Neurology Units, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, CAST, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Pescara, Italy
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Wilkerson JL, Deba F, Crowley ML, Hamouda AK, McMahon LR. Advances in the In vitro and In vivo pharmacology of Alpha4beta2 nicotinic receptor positive allosteric modulators. Neuropharmacology 2020; 168:108008. [PMID: 32113032 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Receptors containing α4 and β2 subunits are a major neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtype in the brain. This receptor plays a critical role in nicotine addiction, with potential smoking cessation therapeutics producing modulation of α4β2 nAChR. In addition, compounds that act as agonists at α4β2 nAChR may be useful for the treatment of pathological pain. Further, as the α4β2 nAChR has been implicated in cognition, therapeutics that act as α4β2 nAChR agonists are also being examined as treatments for cognitive disorders and neurological diseases that impact cognitive function, such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. This review will cover the molecular in vitro evidence that allosteric modulators of the α4β2 neuronal nAChR provide several advantages over traditional α4β2 nAChR orthosteric ligands. Specifically, we explore the concept that nAChR allosteric modulators allow for greater pharmacological selectivity, while minimizing potential deleterious off-target effects. Further, here we discuss the development and preclinical in vivo behavioral assessment of allosteric modulators at the α4β2 neuronal nAChR as therapeutics for smoking cessation, pathological pain, as well as cognitive disorders and neurological diseases that impact cognitive function. This article is part of the special issue on 'Contemporary Advances in Nicotine Neuropharmacology'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny L Wilkerson
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, United States.
| | - Farah Deba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler, TX, 75799, United States
| | - Morgan L Crowley
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, United States
| | - Ayman K Hamouda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler, TX, 75799, United States.
| | - Lance R McMahon
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, United States.
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Newhouse PA. Therapeutic Applications of Nicotinic Stimulation: Successes, Failures, and Future Prospects. Nicotine Tob Res 2019; 21:345-348. [PMID: 30203054 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/nty189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Newhouse
- Center for Cognitive Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN.,US Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Health Systems, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Nashville, TN
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Brem AK, Sensi SL. Towards Combinatorial Approaches for Preserving Cognitive Fitness in Aging. Trends Neurosci 2018; 41:885-897. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of antidepressants in dementia accompanied by depressive symptoms is widespread, but their clinical efficacy is uncertain. This review updates an earlier version, first published in 2002. OBJECTIVES To determine the efficacy and safety of any type of antidepressant for patients who have been diagnosed as having dementia of any type and depression as defined by recognised criteria. SEARCH METHODS We searched ALOIS, the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialised Register, on 16 August 2017. ALOIS contains information on trials retrieved from databases and from a number of trial registers and grey literature sources. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all relevant double-blind, randomised trials comparing any antidepressant drug with placebo, for patients diagnosed as having dementia and depression. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors selected studies for inclusion and extracted data independently. We assessed risk of bias in the included studies using the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' tool. Where clinically appropriate, we pooled data for treatment periods up to three months and from three to nine months. We used GRADE methods to assess the overall quality of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS We included ten studies with a total of 1592 patients. Eight included studies reported sufficiently detailed results to enter into analyses related to antidepressant efficacy. We split one study which included two different antidepressants and therefore had nine groups of patients treated with antidepressants compared with nine groups receiving placebo treatment. Information needed to make 'Risk of bias' judgements was often missing.We found high-quality evidence of little or no difference in scores on depression symptom rating scales between the antidepressant and placebo treated groups after 6 to 13 weeks (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.26 to 0.06; 614 participants; 8 studies). There was probably also little or no difference between groups after six to nine months (mean difference (MD) 0.59 point, 95% CI -1.12 to 2.3, 357 participants; 2 studies; moderate-quality evidence). The evidence on response rates at 12 weeks was of low quality, and imprecision in the result meant we were uncertain of any effect of antidepressants (antidepressant: 49.1%, placebo: 37.7%; odds ratio (OR) 1.71, 95% CI 0.80 to 3.67; 116 participants; 3 studies). However, the remission rate was probably higher in the antidepressant group than the placebo group (antidepressant: 40%, placebo: 21.7%; OR 2.57, 95% CI 1.44 to 4.59; 240 participants; 4 studies; moderate-quality evidence). The largest of these studies continued for another 12 weeks, but because of imprecision of the result we could not be sure of any effect of antidepressants on remission rates after 24 weeks. There was evidence of no effect of antidepressants on performance of activities of daily living at weeks 6 to 13 (SMD -0.05, 95% CI -0.36 to 0.25; 173 participants; 4 studies; high-quality evidence) and probably also little or no effect on cognition (MD 0.33 point on the Mini-Mental State Examination, 95% CI -1.31 to 1.96; 194 participants; 6 studies; moderate-quality evidence).Participants on antidepressants were probably more likely to drop out of treatment than those on placebo over 6 to 13 weeks (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.14; 836 participants; 9 studies). The meta-analysis of the number of participants suffering at least one adverse event showed a significant difference in favour of placebo (antidepressant: 49.2%, placebo: 38.4%; OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.21 to 1.98, 1073 participants; 3 studies), as did the analyses for participants suffering one event of dry mouth (antidepressant: 19.6%, placebo: 13.3%; OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.23 to 2.63, 1044 participants; 5 studies), and one event of dizziness (antidepressant: 19.2%, placebo: 12.5%; OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.34 to 2.98, 1044 participants; 5 studies). Heterogeneity in the way adverse events were reported in studies presented a major difficulty for meta-analysis, but there was some evidence that antidepressant treatment causes more adverse effects than placebo treatment does. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The available evidence is of variable quality and does not provide strong support for the efficacy of antidepressants for treating depression in dementia, especially beyond 12 weeks. On the only measure of efficacy for which we had high-quality evidence (depression rating scale scores), antidepressants showed little or no effect. The evidence on remission rates favoured antidepressants but was of moderate quality, so future research may find a different result. There was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about individual antidepressant drugs or about subtypes of dementia or depression. There is some evidence that antidepressant treatment may cause adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Dudas
- University of CambridgeDepartment of PsychiatryAddenbrooke's HospitalHills RoadCambridgeUKCQ2 2QQ
- Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation TrustOlder People's Mental Health ServiceCambridgeUK
| | - Reem Malouf
- University of OxfordNational Perinatal Epidemiology Unit (NPEU)Old Road CampusOxfordUKOX3 7LF
| | - Jenny McCleery
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation TrustElms CentreOxford RoadBanburyOxfordshireUKOX16 9AL
| | - Tom Dening
- The University of NottinghamDivision of Psychiatry & Applied PsychologyTriumph RoadNottinghamUKNG7 2TU
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López JJ, García-Colunga J, Pérez EG, Fierro A. Methylpiperidinium Iodides as Novel Antagonists for α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:744. [PMID: 30042682 PMCID: PMC6048275 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is expressed in neuronal and non-neuronal cells and is involved in several physiopathological processes, and is thus an important drug target. We have designed and synthesized novel piperidine derivatives as α7 nAChR antagonists. Thus, we describe here a new series of 1-[2-(4-alkoxy-phenoxy-ethyl)]piperidines and 1-[2-(4-alkyloxy-phenoxy-ethyl)]-1-methylpiperidinium iodides (compounds 11a-11c and 12a-12c), and their actions on α7 nAChRs. The pharmacological activity of these compounds was studied in rat CA1 hippocampal interneurons by using the whole-cell voltage-clamp technique. Inhibition of the choline-induced current was less for 11a-11c than for the methylpiperidinium iodides 12a-12c and depended on the length of the aliphatic chain. Those compounds showing strong effects were studied further using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. The strongest and non-voltage dependent antagonism was shown by 12a, which could establish cation–π interactions with the principal (+)-side and van der Waals interactions with the complementary (-)-side in the α7 nAChRs. Furthermore, compound 11a forms hydrogen bonds with residue Q115 of the complementary (-)-side through water molecules without forming cation–π interactions. Our findings have led to the establishment of a new family of antagonists that interact with the agonist binding cavity of the α7 nAChR, which represent a promising new class of compounds for the treatment of pathologies where these receptors need to be negatively modulated, including neuropsychiatric disorders as well as different types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhon J López
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jesús García-Colunga
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Edwin G Pérez
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Angélica Fierro
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Lewis AS, van Schalkwyk GI, Bloch MH. Alpha-7 nicotinic agonists for cognitive deficits in neuropsychiatric disorders: A translational meta-analysis of rodent and human studies. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 75:45-53. [PMID: 28065843 PMCID: PMC5446073 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Revised: 12/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia (SCZ) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major driver of functional disability but is largely unresponsive to current therapeutics. Animal models of cognitive dysfunction relevant to both disorders suggest the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) may be a promising drug development target, with multiple clinical trials subsequently testing this hypothesis in individuals with SCZ and AD. However, the translational value of rodent cognitive tasks for predicting the overall efficacy of this therapeutic target in clinical trials is unknown. To compare effect sizes between rodent and human studies, we searched PubMed and the Cochrane Library for all randomized, placebo-controlled trials of compounds with pharmacological activity at the α7 nAChR for treatment of cognitive dysfunction in SCZ and AD and identified 18 studies comprising 2670 subjects treated with eight different compounds acting as full or partial agonists. Cognitive outcomes were standardized, and random-effects meta-analyses revealed no statistically significant effects of α7 nAChR agonists on overall cognition or any of eight cognitive subdomains when all doses were included (Range of all cognitive outcomes: Cohen's d=-0.077 to 0.12, negative favoring drug). In contrast, analysis of 29 rodent studies testing the same α7 agonists revealed large effect sizes in multiple commonly used preclinical behavioral tests of cognition (Range: d=-1.18 to - 0.73). Our results suggest that targeting the α7 nAChR with agonists is not a robust treatment for cognitive dysfunction in SCZ or AD and necessitate a better understanding of the translational gap for therapeutics targeting the α7 nAChR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan S. Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor, Research, New Haven, CT 06508, United States,Corresponding author at: 34 Park Street, 3rd Floor, Research, New Haven, CT 06508, United States. (A.S. Lewis)
| | | | - Michael H. Bloch
- Yale Child Study Center, 230 S. Frontage Road, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
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Lasrado JA, Nieman KM, Fonseca BA, Sanoshy KD, Schild AL, Herrlinger KA. Safety and tolerability of a dried aqueous spearmint extract. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2017; 86:167-176. [PMID: 28286189 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) and spearmint extracts are Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as flavoring in beverages, pharmaceuticals, and confectionaries. Studies of spearmint extracts in humans and animals have reported conflicting results with respect to toxicity. Since the chemical composition of these extracts was not reported and the spearmint source material was different, the relevance of these existing data to evaluating the risks associated with ingestion of a dried aqueous spearmint extract standardized to rosmarinic acid is not clear. Hence, the safety and tolerability of the dried aqueous spearmint extract was evaluated as part of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in healthy adults with age-associated memory impairment. Ingestion of both 600 and 900 mg/day for 90 days had no effect on plasma levels of follicular stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, or thyroid stimulating hormone, or other safety parameters including vital signs, plasma chemistry or whole blood hematology values. Additionally, there were no reported severe adverse events, no significant between-group differences in the number of subjects reporting adverse effects and the adverse events reported could not be attributed to ingestion of the extract. These results therefore show that ingestion of the aqueous dried spearmint extract is safe and well-tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristin M Nieman
- Biofortis Clinical Research, 211 E. Lake St., Addison, IL 60101, USA
| | | | - Kristen D Sanoshy
- Biofortis Clinical Research, 211 E. Lake St., Addison, IL 60101, USA
| | - Arianne L Schild
- Biofortis Clinical Research, 211 E. Lake St., Addison, IL 60101, USA
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What is the promise of nicotinergic compounds in schizophrenia treatment? Future Med Chem 2016; 8:2009-2012. [DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2016-0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Paller AS, Renert-Yuval Y, Suprun M, Esaki H, Oliva M, Huynh TN, Ungar B, Kunjravia N, Friedland R, Peng X, Zheng X, Estrada YD, Krueger JG, Choate KA, Suárez-Fariñas M, Guttman-Yassky E. An IL-17-dominant immune profile is shared across the major orphan forms of ichthyosis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 139:152-165. [PMID: 27554821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2016.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 06/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ichthyoses are rare genetic disorders associated with generalized scaling, erythema, and epidermal barrier impairment. Pathogenesis-based therapy is largely lacking because the underlying molecular basis is poorly understood. OBJECTIVE We sought to characterize molecularly cutaneous inflammation and its correlation with clinical and barrier characteristics. METHODS We analyzed biopsy specimens from 21 genotyped patients with ichthyosis (congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma, n = 6; lamellar ichthyosis, n = 7; epidermolytic ichthyosis, n = 5; and Netherton syndrome, n = 3) using immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR and compared them with specimens from healthy control subjects, patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), and patients with psoriasis. Clinical measures included the Ichthyosis Area Severity Index (IASI), which integrates erythema (IASI-E) and scaling (IASI-S); transepidermal water loss; and pruritus. RESULTS Ichthyosis samples showed increased epidermal hyperplasia (increased thickness and keratin 16 expression) and T-cell and dendritic cell infiltrates. Increases of general inflammatory (IL-2), innate (IL-1β), and some TH1/interferon (IFN-γ) markers in patients with ichthyosis were comparable with those in patients with psoriasis or AD. TNF-α levels in patients with ichthyosis were increased only in those with Netherton syndrome but were much lower than in patients with psoriasis and those with AD. Expression of TH2 cytokines (IL-13 and IL-31) was similar to that seen in control subjects. The striking induction of IL-17-related genes or markers synergistically induced by IL-17 and TNF-α (IL-17A/C, IL-19, CXCL1, PI3, CCL20, and IL36G; P < .05) in patients with ichthyosis was similar to that seen in patients with psoriasis. IASI and IASI-E scores strongly correlated with IL-17A (r = 0.74, P < .001) and IL-17/TNF-synergistic/additive gene expression. These markers also significantly correlated with transepidermal water loss, suggesting a link between the barrier defect and inflammation in patients with ichthyosis. CONCLUSION Our data associate a shared TH17/IL-23 immune fingerprint with the major orphan forms of ichthyosis and raise the possibility of IL-17-targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Paller
- Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill.
| | - Yael Renert-Yuval
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Maria Suprun
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Hitokazu Esaki
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Margeaux Oliva
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Thy Nhat Huynh
- Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
| | - Benjamin Ungar
- Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Norma Kunjravia
- Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Rivka Friedland
- Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill
| | - Xiangyu Peng
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Xiuzhong Zheng
- Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY
| | - Yeriel D Estrada
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - James G Krueger
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Keith A Choate
- Department of Dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn
| | - Mayte Suárez-Fariñas
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY; Icahn Institute for Genomics and Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Emma Guttman-Yassky
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Laboratory for Investigative Dermatology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY
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Declercq LD, Vandenberghe R, Van Laere K, Verbruggen A, Bormans G. Drug Development in Alzheimer's Disease: The Contribution of PET and SPECT. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:88. [PMID: 27065872 PMCID: PMC4814730 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials aiming to develop disease-altering drugs for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder with devastating consequences, are failing at an alarming rate. Poorly defined inclusion-and outcome criteria, due to a limited amount of objective biomarkers, is one of the major concerns. Non-invasive molecular imaging techniques, positron emission tomography and single photon emission (computed) tomography (PET and SPE(C)T), allow visualization and quantification of a wide variety of (patho)physiological processes and allow early (differential) diagnosis in many disorders. PET and SPECT have the ability to provide biomarkers that permit spatial assessment of pathophysiological molecular changes and therefore objectively evaluate and follow up therapeutic response, especially in the brain. A number of specific PET/SPECT biomarkers used in support of emerging clinical therapies in AD are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieven D Declercq
- Laboratory for Radiopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rik Vandenberghe
- Laboratory for Cognitive Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Van Laere
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alfons Verbruggen
- Laboratory for Radiopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
| | - Guy Bormans
- Laboratory for Radiopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven Leuven, Belgium
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Lange-Asschenfeldt C, Schäble S, Suvorava T, Fahimi EG, Bisha M, Stermann T, Henning U, Kojda G. Effects of varenicline on alpha4-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptor expression and cognitive performance in mice. Neuropharmacology 2016; 107:100-110. [PMID: 27012889 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtypes containing the α4 subunit, particularly α4β2 nAChRs, play an important role in cognitive functioning. The impact of the smoking cessation aid varenicline, a selective partial α4β2 nAChR agonist, on (1) changes of central protein and mRNA expression of this receptor and (2) on memory deficits in a mouse model of cognitive impairment was investigated. Protein and mRNA expression of both the α4 and β2 receptor subunits in mouse brain endothelial and hippocampal cells as well as hippocampus and neocortex tissues were determined by western blot and realtime PCR, respectively. The β2 antibody showed low specificity, though. Tissues were examined following a 2-week oral treatment with various doses of varenicline (0.01, 0.1, 1, 3 mg/kg/day) or vehicle. In addition, episodic memory of mice was assessed following this treatment with an object recognition task using (1) normal mice and (2) animals with anticholinergic-induced memory impairment (i.p. injection of 0.5 mg/kg scopolamine). Varenicline dose-dependently increased protein expression of both the α4 and β2 subunit in cell cultures and brain tissues, respectively, but had no effect on mRNA expression of both subunits. Scopolamine injection induced a significant reduction of object memory in vehicle-treated mice. By contrast, cognitive performance was not altered by scopolamine in varenicline-treated mice. In conclusion, a 2-week oral treatment with varenicline prevented memory impairment in the scopolamine mouse model. In parallel, protein, but not mRNA expression was upregulated, suggesting a posttranscriptional mechanism. Our findings suggest a beneficial effect of varenicline on cognitive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra Schäble
- Comparative Psychology, Institute of Experimental Psychology, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tatsiana Suvorava
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ehsan Gholamreza Fahimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Marion Bisha
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Torben Stermann
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany; Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Uwe Henning
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Georg Kojda
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
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15
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Perez XA. Preclinical Evidence for a Role of the Nicotinic Cholinergic System in Parkinson's Disease. Neuropsychol Rev 2015; 25:371-83. [PMID: 26553323 DOI: 10.1007/s11065-015-9303-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
One of the primary deficits in Parkinson's disease (PD) is the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta which leads to striatal dopaminergic deficits that underlie the motor symptoms associated with the disease. A plethora of animal models have been developed over the years to uncover the molecular alterations that lead to PD development. These models have provided valuable information on neurotransmitter pathways and mechanisms involved. One such a system is the nicotinic cholinergic system. Numerous studies show that nigrostriatal damage affects nicotinic receptor-mediated dopaminergic signaling; therefore therapeutic modulation of the nicotinic cholinergic system may offer a novel approach to manage PD. In fact, there is evidence showing that nicotinic receptor drugs may be useful as neuroprotective agents to prevent Parkinson's disease progression. Additional preclinical studies also show that nicotinic receptor drugs may be beneficial for the treatment of L-dopa induced dyskinesias. Here, we review preclinical findings supporting the idea that nicotinic receptors are valuable therapeutic targets for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiomara A Perez
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, 333 Ravenswood Ave, Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA.
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16
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Noda S, Suárez-Fariñas M, Ungar B, Kim SJ, de Guzman Strong C, Xu H, Peng X, Estrada YD, Nakajima S, Honda T, Shin JU, Lee H, Krueger JG, Lee KH, Kabashima K, Guttman-Yassky E. The Asian atopic dermatitis phenotype combines features of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis with increased TH17 polarization. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2015; 136:1254-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2015.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 347] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Nicotinic ligands as multifunctional agents for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Biochem Pharmacol 2015; 97:388-398. [PMID: 26231940 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2015.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The challenges associated with developing more effective treatments for neurologic and psychiatric illness such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia are considerable. Both the symptoms and the pathophysiology of these conditions are complex and poorly understood and the clinical presentations across different patients can be very heterogeneous. Moreover, it has become apparent that the reductionist approach to drug discovery for these illnesses that has dominated the field for decades (i.e., the development of highly selective compounds or other treatment modalities focused on a very specific pathophysiologic target) has not been widely successful. Accordingly, a variety of new strategies have emerged including the development of "multitarget-directed ligands" (MTDLs), the development and/or identification of compounds that exhibit "multifunctional" activity (e.g., pro-cognitive plus neuroprotective, pro-cognitive plus antipsychotic activity), "repurposing" strategies for existing compounds that have other clinical indications, and novel "adjunctive" treatment strategies that might enhance the efficacy of the currently available treatments. Interestingly, a variety of ligands at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) appear to have the potential to fulfill one or more of these desirable properties (i.e., multifunctional, repurposing, or adjunctive treatment potential). The purpose of this review (while not all-inclusive) is to provide an overview of a variety of nAChR ligands that demonstrate potential in these categories, particularly, "multifunctional" properties. Due to their densities in the mammalian brain and the amount of literature available, the review will focus on ligands of the high affinity α4β2 nAChR and the low affinity α7 nAChR.
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Quik M, Bordia T, Zhang D, Perez XA. Nicotine and Nicotinic Receptor Drugs. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2015; 124:247-71. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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Kim SY, Choi SH, Rollema H, Schwam EM, McRae T, Dubrava S, Jacobsen J. Phase II crossover trial of varenicline in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2014; 37:232-45. [PMID: 24247022 DOI: 10.1159/000355373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence supports a role of α4β2 receptors in Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS This Korean, multicenter, double-blind, two-period (6 weeks each), crossover study randomized participants to the order in which they received varenicline (1 mg twice daily) and placebo. Assessments included AD Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog) 75, Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), adverse events (AEs) and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). RESULTS For varenicline versus placebo (n = 66 randomized), there was no significant difference in the week 6 least square (LS) mean ADAS-Cog 75 total score (primary endpoint; 18.07 vs. 18.49; p = 0.3873) and a slight worsening in the week 6 LS mean NPI (3.82 vs. 2.55; p = 0.0468), primarily driven by decreased appetite/eating. Common treatment-related AEs were nausea (23.3; 3.4%), vomiting (15.0%; 0) and decreased appetite (15.0; 6.8%). CONCLUSIONS Varenicline did not improve cognition, behavior or global change in this population. The most frequent varenicline-associated AEs were gastrointestinal; psychiatric AEs were rare and similar between the groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Yoon Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
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20
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Childress A, Sallee FR. Pozanicline for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:1585-93. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.956078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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21
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Yu LF, Zhang HK, Caldarone BJ, Eaton JB, Lukas RJ, Kozikowski AP. Recent developments in novel antidepressants targeting α4β2-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. J Med Chem 2014; 57:8204-23. [PMID: 24901260 PMCID: PMC4207546 DOI: 10.1021/jm401937a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
(nAChRs) have been investigated
for developing drugs that can potentially treat various central nervous
system disorders. Considerable evidence supports the hypothesis that
modulation of the cholinergic system through activation and/or desensitization/inactivation
of nAChR holds promise for the development of new antidepressants.
The introductory portion of this Miniperspective discusses the basic
pharmacology that underpins the involvement of α4β2-nAChRs
in depression, along with the structural features that are essential
to ligand recognition by the α4β2-nAChRs. The remainder
of this Miniperspective analyzes reported nicotinic ligands in terms
of drug design considerations and their potency and selectivity, with
a particular focus on compounds exhibiting antidepressant-like effects
in preclinical or clinical studies. This Miniperspective aims to provide
an in-depth analysis of the potential for using nicotinic ligands
in the treatment of depression, which may hold some promise in addressing
an unmet clinical need by providing relief from depressive symptoms
in refractory patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Fang Yu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, University of Illinois at Chicago , 833 South Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
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22
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de Oliveira RS, Trezza BM, Busse AL, Jacob Filho W. Use of computerized tests to assess the cognitive impact of interventions in the elderly. Dement Neuropsychol 2014; 8:107-111. [PMID: 29213890 PMCID: PMC5619116 DOI: 10.1590/s1980-57642014dn82000004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
With the aging of the population, the possibility of the occurrence of cognitive decline rises. A number of types of intervention seek to attenuate or reverse this impairment. The use of computerized tests helps quantify the effects of interventions on cognitive function in the elderly. The objective of the present review was to analyze studies that have utilized computerized cognitive tests to determine the effects of interventions in the elderly population, describing the batteries and tests employed, the populations studied and reports by authors on the limitations or benefits of employing these tests in older adults. The review was performed on the PubMed database using the descriptors: cognitive computerized test and elderly. We retrieved 530 studies and, following analysis of their abstracts, selected 32 relevant to the subject. The studies utilized 19 different types of computerized tests and batteries to assess the interventions, which were predominantly drug trials. There were no reports on limitations in the use of the computerized tests, suggesting this type of intervention had good applicability, sensitivity, and little or no practice effects in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Beatriz Maria Trezza
- Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da
Universidade de São Paulo – USP/SP, São Paulo SP – Brazil
| | - Alexandre Leopold Busse
- Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da
Universidade de São Paulo – USP/SP, São Paulo SP – Brazil
| | - Wilson Jacob Filho
- Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da
Universidade de São Paulo – USP/SP, São Paulo SP – Brazil
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23
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Posadas I, López-Hernández B, Ceña V. Nicotinic receptors in neurodegeneration. Curr Neuropharmacol 2013; 11:298-314. [PMID: 24179465 PMCID: PMC3648781 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x11311030005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2012] [Revised: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies have focused on expanding our knowledge of the structure and diversity of peripheral and central nicotinic receptors. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are members of the Cys-loop superfamily of pentameric ligand-gated ion channels, which include GABA (A and C), serotonin, and glycine receptors. Currently, 9 alpha (α2-α10) and 3 beta (β2-β4) subunits have been identified in the central nervous system (CNS), and these subunits assemble to form a variety of functional nAChRs. The pentameric combination of several alpha and beta subunits leads to a great number of nicotinic receptors that vary in their properties, including their sensitivity to nicotine, permeability to calcium and propensity to desensitize. In the CNS, nAChRs play crucial roles in modulating presynaptic, postsynaptic, and extrasynaptic signaling, and have been found to be involved in a complex range of CNS disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), schizophrenia, Tourette´s syndrome, anxiety, depression and epilepsy. Therefore, there is growing interest in the development of drugs that modulate nAChR functions with optimal benefits and minimal adverse effects. The present review describes the main characteristics of nAChRs in the CNS and focuses on the various compounds that have been tested and are currently in phase I and phase II trials for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases including PD, AD and age-associated memory and mild cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inmaculada Posadas
- Unidad Asociada Neurodeath. CSIC-Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Departamento de Ciencias Médicas. Albacete, Spain and CIBERNED, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
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24
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Zurkovsky L, Taylor WD, Newhouse PA. Cognition as a therapeutic target in late-life depression: potential for nicotinic therapeutics. Biochem Pharmacol 2013; 86:1133-44. [PMID: 23933385 PMCID: PMC3856552 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Depression is associated with impairments to cognition and brain function at any age, but such impairments in the elderly are particularly problematic because of the additional burden of normal cognitive aging and in some cases, structural brain pathology. Individuals with late-life depression exhibit impairments in cognition and brain structural integrity, alongside mood dysfunction. Antidepressant treatment improves symptoms in some but not all patients, and those who benefit may not return to the cognitive and functional level of nondepressed elderly. Thus, for comprehensive treatment of late-life depression, it may be necessary to address both the affective and cognitive deficits. In this review, we propose a model for the treatment of late-life depression in which nicotinic stimulation is used to improve cognitive performance and improve the efficacy of an antidepressant treatment of the syndrome of late-life depression. The cholinergic system is well-established as important to cognition. Although muscarinic stimulation may exacerbate depressive symptoms, nicotinic stimulation may improve cognition and neural functioning without a detriment to mood. While some studies of nicotinic subtype specific receptor agonists have shown promise in improving cognitive performance, less is known regarding how nicotinic receptor stimulation affects cognition in depressed elderly patients. Late-life depression thus represents a new therapeutic target for the development of nicotinic agonist drugs. Parallel treatment of cognitive dysfunction along with medical and psychological approaches to treating mood dysfunction may be necessary to ensure full resolution of depressive illness in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilia Zurkovsky
- Center for Cognitive Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1601 23rd Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37212, United States
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25
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Nirogi R, Goura V, Abraham R, Jayarajan P. α4β2* neuronal nicotinic receptor ligands (agonist, partial agonist and positive allosteric modulators) as therapeutic prospects for pain. Eur J Pharmacol 2013; 712:22-9. [PMID: 23660369 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Revised: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
α4β2* neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor are ligand-gated ion channels and widely expressed throughout the central and peripheral nervous system. α4β2* neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor play crucial role in pain signaling via modulation of multiple neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, dopamine, γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) and norepinephrine. Both spinal and supraspinal pathways are involved in the mechanisms by which α4β2* neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligands modulate the neuropathic and inflammatory pain. Selective α4β2* neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligands are being developed for the treatment of neuropathic and inflammatory pain as they show considerable efficacy in a wide range of preclinical pain models. Agonists/partial agonists of α4β2* neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor show efficacy in animal models of pain and their anti-nociceptive properties are blocked by nicotinic antagonists. Positive allosteric modulators are being developed with the aim to increase the potency or therapeutic window of agonists/partial agonists. Accumulating evidences suggest that anti-nociceptive effects of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligands may not be mediated solely by α4β2* neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. We have also reviewed the stage of clinical development of various α4β2* neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramakrishna Nirogi
- In-Vivo Pharmacology, Discovery Research, Suven Life Sciences Ltd., Serene Chambers, Road No. 5, Avenue-7, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500034, India.
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26
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Pérez EG, Ocampo C, Feuerbach D, López JJ, Morelo GL, Tapia RA, Arias HR. Novel 1-(1-benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N,N,N-trimethylmethanaminium iodides are competitive antagonists for the human α4β2 and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. MEDCHEMCOMM 2013. [DOI: 10.1039/c3md00042g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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27
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Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: From basic science to therapeutics. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 137:22-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2012.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 382] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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28
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Counotte DS, Smit AB, Spijker S. The Yin and Yang of Nicotine: Harmful during Development, Beneficial in Adult Patient Populations. Front Pharmacol 2012; 3:180. [PMID: 23060798 PMCID: PMC3465852 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2012.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Accepted: 09/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotine has remarkably diverse effects on the brain. Being the main active compound in tobacco, nicotine can aversively affect brain development. However, it has the ability to act positively by restoring attentional capabilities in smokers. Here, we focus on nicotine exposure during the prenatal and adolescent developmental periods and specifically, we will review the long-lasting effects of nicotine on attention, both in humans and animal models. We discuss the reciprocal relation of the beneficial effects of nicotine, improving attention in smokers and in patients with neuropsychiatric diseases, such as schizophrenia and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, vs. nicotine-related attention deficits already caused during adolescence. Given the need for research on the mechanisms of nicotine's cognitive actions, we discuss some of the recent work performed in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle S. Counotte
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of MarylandBaltimore, MD, USA
| | - August B. Smit
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU UniversityAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sabine Spijker
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU UniversityAmsterdam, Netherlands
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29
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Muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists and allosteric modulators for the treatment of schizophrenia. Neuropsychopharmacology 2012; 37:16-42. [PMID: 21956443 PMCID: PMC3238081 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2011.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptors (mAChRs and nAChRs) are emerging as important targets for the development of novel treatments for the symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Preclinical and early proof-of-concept clinical studies have provided strong evidence that activators of specific mAChR (M(1) and M(4)) and nAChR (α(7) and α(2)β(4)) subtypes are effective in animal models of antipsychotic-like activity and/or cognitive enhancement, and in the treatment of positive and cognitive symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. While early attempts to develop selective mAChR and nAChR agonists provided important preliminary findings, these compounds have ultimately failed in clinical development due to a lack of true subtype selectivity and subsequent dose-limiting adverse effects. In recent years, there have been major advances in the discovery of highly selective activators for the different mAChR and nAChR subtypes with suitable properties for optimization as potential candidates for clinical trials. One novel strategy has been to identify ligands that activate a specific receptor subtype through actions at sites that are distinct from the highly conserved ACh-binding site, termed allosteric sites. These allosteric activators, both allosteric agonists and positive allosteric modulators, of mAChR and nAChR subtypes demonstrate unique mechanisms of action and high selectivity in vivo, and may provide innovative treatment strategies for schizophrenia.
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Uteshev VV. α7 nicotinic ACh receptors as a ligand-gated source of Ca(2+) ions: the search for a Ca(2+) optimum. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2012; 740:603-38. [PMID: 22453962 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-2888-2_27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The spatiotemporal distribution of cytosolic Ca(2+) ions is a key determinant of neuronal behavior and survival. Distinct sources of Ca(2+) ions including ligand- and voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels contribute to intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis. Many normal physiological and therapeutic neuronal functions are Ca(2+)-dependent, however an excess of cytosolic Ca(2+) or a lack of the appropriate balance between Ca(2+) entry and clearance may destroy cellular integrity and cause cellular death. Therefore, the existence of optimal spatiotemporal patterns of cytosolic Ca(2+) elevations and thus, optimal activation of ligand- and voltage-gated Ca(2+) ion channels are postulated to benefit neuronal function and survival. Alpha7 nicotinic -acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are highly permeable to Ca(2+) ions and play an important role in modulation of neurotransmitter release, gene expression and neuroprotection in a variety of neuronal and non-neuronal cells. In this review, the focus is placed on α7 nAChR-mediated currents and Ca(2+) influx and how this source of Ca(2+) entry compares to NMDA receptors in supporting cytosolic Ca(2+) homeostasis, neuronal function and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor V Uteshev
- Department of Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA.
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31
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Cardinale A, Nastrucci C, Cesario A, Russo P. Nicotine: specific role in angiogenesis, proliferation and apoptosis. Crit Rev Toxicol 2011; 42:68-89. [PMID: 22050423 DOI: 10.3109/10408444.2011.623150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, tobacco smoking is the cause of ~5-6 million deaths per year, counting 31% and 6% of all cancer deaths (affecting 18 different organs) in middle-aged men and women, respectively. Nicotine is the addictive component of tobacco acting on neuronal nicotinic receptors (nAChR). Functional nAChR, are also present on endothelial, haematological and epithelial cells. Although nicotine itself is regularly not referred to as a carcinogen, there is an ongoing debate whether nicotine functions as a 'tumour promoter'. Nicotine, with its specific binding to nAChR, deregulates essential biological processes like regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, inflammation and cell-mediated immunity in a wide variety of cells including foetal (regulation of development), embryonic and adult stem cells, adult tissues as well as cancer cells. Nicotine seems involved in fundamental aspects of the biology of malignant diseases, as well as of neurodegeneration. Investigating the biological effects of nicotine may provide new tools for therapeutic interventions and for the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and tumour biology.
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Ji W, Ha I. Drug development for Alzheimer's disease: recent progress. Exp Neurobiol 2010; 19:120-31. [PMID: 22110351 PMCID: PMC3214787 DOI: 10.5607/en.2010.19.3.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2010] [Accepted: 12/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia, is characterized by two major pathological hallmarks: amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Based on these two indicators, an amyloid cascade hypothesis was proposed, and accordingly, most current therapeutic approaches are now focused on the removal of β-amyloid peptides (Aβ from the brain. Additionally, strategies for blocking tau hyperphosphorylation and aggregation have been suggested, including the development of drugs that can block the formation of tangles. However, there are no true disease-modifying drugs in the current market, though many drugs based on theories other than Aβ and tau pathology are under development. The purpose of this review was to provide information on the current development of AD drugs and to discuss the issues related to drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonjin Ji
- Institute for Brain Science and Technology (IBST)/Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Inje University, Busan 614-735, Korea
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