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Louvrou V, Solianik R, Brazaitis M, Erhardt S. Exploring the effect of prolonged fasting on kynurenine pathway metabolites and stress markers in healthy male individuals. Eur J Clin Nutr 2024; 78:677-683. [PMID: 38789718 PMCID: PMC11300305 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-024-01451-7] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Prolonged fasting triggers a stress response within the human body. Our objective was to investigate the impact of prolonged fasting, in conjunction with stress, on kynurenine pathway metabolites. SUBJECTS/METHODS Healthy males were divided into fasting group (zero-calorie-restriction) for 6 days (FAST, n = 14), and control group (CON, n = 10). Blood and saliva samples were collected at baseline, Day 2, Day 4, Day 6 during fasting period, and 1 week after resuming regular diet. Plasma levels of kynurenine pathway metabolites were measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Plasma and salivary samples were analyzed for stress markers. RESULTS A pronounced activation of the kynurenine pathway in individuals on FAST trial was revealed. Concentrations of picolinic acid (PIC), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) were significantly increased, with peak levels observed on Day 6 (P < 0.0001). Conversely, concentrations of tryptophan (TRP) and quinolinic acid (QUIN) decreased (P < 0.0001), while kynurenine (KYN) and nicotinamide (NAM) levels remained stable. Cortisol and noradrenaline concentrations remained unchanged. However, adrenaline levels significantly increased on Day 4 within FAST compared to CON (P = 0.005). Notably, all deviations in kynurenine pathway metabolite levels returned to baseline values upon resuming regular diet following the 6-day fasting regimen, even when weight and BMI parameters were not restored. CONCLUSIONS Extended fasting over 6 days induces the kynurenine pathway and has minimal effects on stress markers. Restoration of metabolite concentrations upon regular feeding implies rapid adaptation of the kynurenine pathway synthetic enzymes to maintain homeostasis when faced with perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varvara Louvrou
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rima Solianik
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Marius Brazaitis
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania.
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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2
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Juhas U, Reczkowicz J, Kortas JA, Żychowska M, Pilis K, Ziemann E, Cytrych I, Antosiewicz J, Borkowska A. Eight-day fasting modulates serum kynurenines in healthy men at rest and after exercise. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1403491. [PMID: 38933822 PMCID: PMC11199767 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1403491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tryptophan's (Trp) metabolites are undervalued markers of human health. Their serum concentrations are modified by physical exercise and other factors, among which fasting has a well-documented role. Although this mechanism is hardly explored, thus, the study aimed to determine the effect of the 8-day fasting period and the impact of such a procedure on a single bout of an endurance exercise on the concentration of kynurenine pathway (KP) metabolites. Methods 10 participants fasted for 8 days, and 10 as a control group participated in the study. The exercise was performed at baseline after an overnight fast and repeated post 8 days. Results The 8 days of fasting increased the resting 3-hydroxy-L-kynurenine (3HK), picolinic acid (PA), kynurenic acid (KYNA), and xanthurenic acid (XA) serum concentration. Also elevated phenylalanine (Phe) and tyrosine (Tyr) levels were recorded, suggesting expanded proteolysis of muscle proteins. In turn, physical activity caused a decrease in the concentration of 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3HAA) and PA after fasting. The obtained results were not recorded in controls. Conclusion The results of this study show that the health-promoting effects of fasting are associated with changes in the KYN pathway. The increase in the concentration of PA and XA metabolites following fasting is capable of penetrating the blood-brain barrier, and KYNA, which initiates several beneficial changes, supports this assumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulana Juhas
- Department of Bioenergetics and Physiology of Exercise, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna Reczkowicz
- Department of Bioenergetics and Physiology of Exercise, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jakub Antoni Kortas
- Department of Health and Life Sciences, Gdańsk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Żychowska
- Department of Biological Foundations of Physical Culture, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Karol Pilis
- Department of Health Sciences, Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa, Częstochowa, Poland
| | - Ewa Ziemann
- Department of Athletics, Strength and Conditioning, Poznan University of Physical Education, Poznań, Poland
| | | | - Jędrzej Antosiewicz
- Department of Bioenergetics and Physiology of Exercise, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Andżelika Borkowska
- Department of Bioenergetics and Physiology of Exercise, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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3
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Ding X, Jin Y, Shi X, Wang Y, Jin Z, Yin L, Gao S, Lei Y, Yang J. TDO2 promotes bladder cancer progression via AhR-mediated SPARC/FILIP1L signaling. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116172. [PMID: 38552852 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116172] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
The enzyme tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2) has been implicated in the dysregulation across a variety of human cancers. Despite this association, the implications of TDO2 in the progression of bladder cancer have eluded thorough understanding. In this study, we demonstrate that TDO2 expression is notably elevated in bladder cancer tissues and serves as an unfavorable prognostic factor for overall survival. Through a series of biological functional assays, we have determined that TDO2 essentially enhances cell proliferation, metastatic potential, and imparts a decreased sensitivity to the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin. Our mechanistic investigations reveal that TDO2 augments aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling pathways and subsequently upregulates the expression of SPARC and FILIP1L. Importantly, we have identified a positive correlation between TDO2 levels and the basal/squamous subtype of bladder cancer, and we provide evidence to suggest that TDO2 expression is modulated by the tumor suppressors RB1 and TP53. From a therapeutic perspective, we demonstrate that the targeted inhibition of TDO2 with the molecular inhibitor 680C91 markedly attenuates tumor growth and metastasis while concurrently enhancing the efficacy of cisplatin. These findings open a new therapeutic avenue for the management of bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoju Ding
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yunjie Jin
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Putuo People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaokai Shi
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China
| | - Yidi Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Putuo People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhibo Jin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lei Yin
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Putuo People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shenglin Gao
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China; Department of Urology, Gonghe County Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qinghai, China; Changzhou Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, China.
| | - Yibo Lei
- Department of Otology, Otolaryngology Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Jinjian Yang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Heng B, Pires AS, Chow S, Krishnamurthy S, Bonnell B, Bustamante S, Guillemin GJ. Stability Studies of Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites in Blood Components Define Optimal Blood Processing Conditions. Int J Tryptophan Res 2023; 16:11786469231213521. [PMID: 38106464 PMCID: PMC10725091 DOI: 10.1177/11786469231213521] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the main pathway of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism that generates energy for multiple cellular processes. The activity of this pathway has been shown to be dysregulated in multiple human diseases. The resultant modulation of metabolites has been suggested to comprise biomarkers to track disease progression or could identify new therapeutic targets. While metabolite changes can be measured readily in blood, there is limited knowledge on the effect of blood matrices and sample processing time may have on the stability of KP metabolites. Understanding the stability of KP metabolites in blood is integral to obtaining accurate KP data to correlate with clinical pathology. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess the concentration of KP metabolites in matched whole blood, plasma and serum. The impact of pre-analytical sample processing time in the various blood matrices was also analysed. Serum and plasma had the higher concentration of KP metabolites compared to whole blood. Furthermore, concentrations of KP metabolites declined when the collected blood was processed after 24 hours storage at 4°C. Our study shows that that type of blood matrix and the time to processing have an impact on the stability of the KP metabolites. Serum or plasma are the preferred choice of matrix and the isolation of these matrices from whole blood is best performed immediately after collection for optimal analytical KP data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Heng
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ananda Staats Pires
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sharron Chow
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shivani Krishnamurthy
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Brooke Bonnell
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sonia Bustamante
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Mrštná K, Kujovská Krčmová L, Švec F. Advances in kynurenine analysis. Clin Chim Acta 2023:117441. [PMID: 37321530 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Kynurenine, the first product of tryptophan degradation via the kynurenine pathway, has become one of the most frequently mentioned biomarkers in recent years. Its levels in the body indicate the state of the human physiology. Human serum and plasma are the main matrixes used to evaluate kynurenine levels and liquid chromatography is the dominant technique for its determination. However, their concentrations in blood do not always correspond to the levels in other matrixes obtained from the affected individuals. It is therefore important to decide when it is appropriate to analyse kynurenine in alternative matrices. However, liquid chromatography may not be the best option for the analysis. This review presents alternatives that can be used and summarizes the features that need to be considered prior to kynurenine determination. Possible approaches to kynurenine analysis in a variety of human matrixes, their challenges, and limitations are critically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Mrštná
- The Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Akademika Heyrovského 1203/8, 50005 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic; The Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Sokolská 581, 50005 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - L Kujovská Krčmová
- The Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Akademika Heyrovského 1203/8, 50005 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic; The Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostics, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Sokolská 581, 50005 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic.
| | - F Švec
- The Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Akademika Heyrovského 1203/8, 50005 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
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Solvay M, Holfelder P, Klaessens S, Pilotte L, Stroobant V, Lamy J, Naulaerts S, Spillier Q, Frédérick R, De Plaen E, Sers C, Opitz CA, Van den Eynde BJ, Zhu J. Tryptophan depletion sensitizes the AHR pathway by increasing AHR expression and GCN2/LAT1-mediated kynurenine uptake, and potentiates induction of regulatory T lymphocytes. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e006728. [PMID: 37344101 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-006728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and tryptophan-dioxygenase (TDO) are enzymes catabolizing the essential amino acid tryptophan into kynurenine. Expression of these enzymes is frequently observed in advanced-stage cancers and is associated with poor disease prognosis and immune suppression. Mechanistically, the respective roles of tryptophan shortage and kynurenine production in suppressing immunity remain unclear. Kynurenine was proposed as an endogenous ligand for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which can regulate inflammation and immunity. However, controversy remains regarding the role of AHR in IDO1/TDO-mediated immune suppression, as well as the involvement of kynurenine. In this study, we aimed to clarify the link between IDO1/TDO expression, AHR pathway activation and immune suppression. METHODS AHR expression and activation was analyzed by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis in cells engineered to express IDO1/TDO, or cultured in medium mimicking tryptophan catabolism by IDO1/TDO. In vitro differentiation of naïve CD4+ T cells into regulatory T cells (Tregs) was compared in T cells isolated from mice bearing different Ahr alleles or a knockout of Ahr, and cultured in medium with or without tryptophan and kynurenine. RESULTS We confirmed that IDO1/TDO expression activated AHR in HEK-293-E cells, as measured by the induction of AHR target genes. Unexpectedly, AHR was also overexpressed on IDO1/TDO expression. AHR overexpression did not depend on kynurenine but was triggered by tryptophan deprivation. Multiple human tumor cell lines overexpressed AHR on tryptophan deprivation. AHR overexpression was not dependent on general control non-derepressible 2 (GCN2), and strongly sensitized the AHR pathway. As a result, kynurenine and other tryptophan catabolites, which are weak AHR agonists in normal conditions, strongly induced AHR target genes in tryptophan-depleted conditions. Tryptophan depletion also increased kynurenine uptake by increasing SLC7A5 (LAT1) expression in a GCN2-dependent manner. Tryptophan deprivation potentiated Treg differentiation from naïve CD4+ T cells isolated from mice bearing an AHR allele of weak affinity similar to the human AHR. CONCLUSIONS Tryptophan deprivation sensitizes the AHR pathway by inducing AHR overexpression and increasing cellular kynurenine uptake. As a result, tryptophan catabolites such as kynurenine more potently activate AHR, and Treg differentiation is promoted. Our results propose a molecular explanation for the combined roles of tryptophan deprivation and kynurenine production in mediating IDO1/TDO-induced immune suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Solvay
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pauline Holfelder
- Faculty of Bioscience, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- DKTK Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer, German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, INF 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simon Klaessens
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luc Pilotte
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent Stroobant
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Juliette Lamy
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stefan Naulaerts
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Etienne De Plaen
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christine Sers
- Partner Site Berlin, German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium Partner Site Berlin, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christiane A Opitz
- DKTK Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer, German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, INF 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benoit J Van den Eynde
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jingjing Zhu
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium
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Balter LJ, Li X, Schwieler L, Erhardt S, Axelsson J, Olsson MJ, Lasselin J, Lekander M. Lipopolysaccharide-induced changes in the kynurenine pathway and symptoms of sickness behavior in humans. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 153:106110. [PMID: 37075653 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Metabolites of the kynurenine pathway are hypothesized to be implicated in inflammation-associated depression, but there is a lack of experimental studies in humans assessing the kinetics of kynurenine metabolites in relation to experimentally-induced sickness. The aim of the present study was to assess changes in the kynurenine pathway and to explore its relation to symptoms of sickness behavior during an acute experimental immune challenge. This double-blind placebo-controlled randomized cross-over study included 22 healthy human participants (n = 21 both sessions, Mage = 23.4, SD = 3.6, nine women) who received an intravenous injection of 2.0 ng/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and saline (placebo) on two different occasions in a randomized order. Blood samples (0 h, 1 h, 1.5 h, 2 h, 3 h, 4 h, 5 h, 7 h post-injection) were analyzed for kynurenine metabolites and inflammatory cytokines. The intensity of symptoms of sickness behavior was assessed using the 10-item Sickness Questionnaire at 0 h, 1.5 h, 3 h, 5 h, and 7 h post-injection. LPS induced significantly lower concentrations of plasma tryptophan (at 2 h, 4 h, 5 h, and 7 h post-injection), kynurenine (at 2 h, 3 h, 4 h, and 5 h post-injection), nicotinamide (at 4 h, 5 h, and 7 h post-injection), and higher levels for quinolinic acid at 5 h post-injection as compared to placebo. LPS did not affect kynurenic acid, 3-hydroxykynurenine, and picolinic acid. The development of the sickness symptoms was largely similar across items, with the highest levels around 1.5-3 h post-injection. Changes in plasma levels of kynurenine metabolites seem to coincide rather than precede or follow changes in subjective sickness. Exploratory analyses indicate that higher Sickness Questionnaire total scores at 1.5-5 h post-injection were correlated with lower kynurenic acid and nicotinamide levels. These results lend further support for LPS-induced changes in the kynurenine pathway, but may not, as interpreted from blood levels, causally link to LPS-induced acute symptoms of sickness behavior. Future research may consider a larger sample to further scrutinize the role of the kynurenine pathway in the sickness response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Jt Balter
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Xueqi Li
- Department of Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lilly Schwieler
- Department of Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Department of Physiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - John Axelsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mats J Olsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Julie Lasselin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Osher Center for Integrative Health, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Mats Lekander
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; Osher Center for Integrative Health, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
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8
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Eggertsen PP, Hansen J, Andersen ML, Nielsen JF, Olsen RKJ, Palmfeldt J. Simultaneous measurement of kynurenine metabolites and explorative metabolomics using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry: A novel accurate method applied to serum and plasma samples from a large healthy cohort. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2023; 227:115304. [PMID: 36827735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Kynurenine metabolites are emerging as promising clinical biomarkers in several diseases, especially within psychiatry. Unfortunately, they are difficult to detect, particularly the challenging neurotoxic metabolite quinolinic acid (QUIN). The aim of this study was twofold: First, to develop a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method (LC-MS) for simultaneous targeted quantification of key kynurenine metabolites together with untargeted metabolomics, and second, to demonstrate the feasibility of the method by exploring serum/plasma and gender differences in 120 healthy young adults between 18 and 30 years of age. A range of analytical columns (C18 and biphenyl columns) and mobile phases (acidic and alkaline) were systematically evaluated. The optimized LC-MS method was based on a biphenyl column, a water-methanol gradient with 0.2% formic acid, and authentic isotope-labeled standards for each kynurenine metabolite. Precision and accuracy of targeted quantification of the key kynurenine metabolites tryptophan (TRP), kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA), 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), and QUIN were excellent, far exceeding the acceptance criteria specified by international guidelines. Median inter- and intra-day precision were < 6% in serum and plasma; the median accuracy was 2.4% in serum and 8% in plasma. Serum concentrations were ≤ 10% different from the corresponding concentrations in plasma for all kynurenine metabolites in healthy young adults. Men had higher levels (8-18%) of TRP, KYN, and KYNA than women (p ≤ 0.009), while no differences were observed for 3-HK and QUIN (p > 0.70). Incurred sample reanalysis of 10% of the samples yielded a median difference < 5% from the initial measurement, demonstrating the robustness of the method. Besides the targeted quantification of key kynurenine metabolites, our method was found to be suitable for simultaneous untargeted metabolomics analyses of hundreds of metabolites. A range of compound classes could be detected including amino acids, nucleic acids, dipeptides, antioxidants, and acylcarnitines, making explorative studies highly feasible. For example, we identified an additional kynurenine metabolite, 2-Quinolinecarboxylic acid, which was 47% higher in males than females (adjusted p-value = 0.001). In conclusion, in this study, we present a reliable and robust LC-MS method for simultaneous targeted and untargeted metabolomics ready for both research and clinical use. We show that both serum and plasma can be used for kynurenine studies, and the reported gender differences are in accordance with the literature. Future studies should consider using biphenyl-based LC-MS columns to successfully detect QUIN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Preben Eggertsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark; Research Unit for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark; Hammel Neurorehabilitation Centre and University Research Clinic, Denmark.
| | - Jakob Hansen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Malene Lundfold Andersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark; Research Unit for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Feldbæk Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark; Hammel Neurorehabilitation Centre and University Research Clinic, Denmark
| | - Rikke Katrine Jentoft Olsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark; Research Unit for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Johan Palmfeldt
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark; Research Unit for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.
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Kynurenine Pathway in Diabetes Mellitus-Novel Pharmacological Target? Cells 2023; 12:cells12030460. [PMID: 36766803 PMCID: PMC9913876 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The tryptophan-kynurenine pathway (Trp-KYN) is the major route for tryptophan conversion in the brain and in the periphery. Kynurenines display a wide range of biological actions (which are often contrasting) such as cytotoxic/cytoprotective, oxidant/antioxidant or pro-/anti-inflammatory. The net effect depends on their local concentration, cellular environment, as well as a complex positive and negative feedback loops. The imbalance between beneficial and harmful kynurenines was implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric illnesses and metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus (DM). Despite available therapies, DM may lead to serious macro- and microvascular complications including cardio- and cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, chronic renal disease, diabetic retinopathy, autonomic neuropathy or cognitive impairment. It is well established that low-grade inflammation, which often coincides with DM, can affect the function of KP and, conversely, that kynurenines may modulate the immune response. This review provides a detailed summary of findings concerning the status of the Trp-KYN pathway in DM based on available animal, human and microbiome studies. We highlight the importance of the molecular interplay between the deranged (functionally and qualitatively) conversion of Trp to kynurenines in the development of DM and insulin resistance. The Trp-KYN pathway emerges as a novel target in the search for preventive and therapeutic interventions in DM.
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10
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Benarroch E. What Muscle Signals Mediate the Beneficial Effects of Exercise on Cognition? Neurology 2022; 99:298-304. [PMID: 35970575 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000201049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Nadour Z, Simian C, Laprévote O, Loriot MA, Larabi IA, Pallet N. Validation of a liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry method for simultaneous quantification of tryptophan and 10 key metabolites of the kynurenine pathway in plasma and urine: Application to a cohort of acute kidney injury patients. Clin Chim Acta 2022; 534:115-127. [PMID: 35870540 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2022.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A sensitive and rapid liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of tryptophan (Trp) and ten metabolites of kynurenine pathway, including kynurenine (Kyn), 3-hydroxy-kynurenine (3-HK), kynurenic acid (KA), xanthurenic acid (XA), 3-Hydroxy-anthranilic acid (3-HANA), quinolinic acid (QA), nicotinic acid mononucleotide (NaMN), picolinic acid (Pic), nicotinamide (NAM) and nicotinic acid (NA) in both plasma and urine. This LC-MS/MS method was used to predict the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in a cohort of patients with cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Urinary concentrations of Pic, as well as Pic to Trp and Pic to 3-HANA ratios were highly predictive of an AKI episode the week after CPB, indicating that Pic could be a predictive biomarker of AKI. Thus, monitoring the kynurenine pathway activity with this LC-MS/MS method is a clinically relevant tool to identify new biomarkers of kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahia Nadour
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, AP-HP, 20 rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France; Paris University, INSERM UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, 15 rue de l'Ecole de médecine, 75006 Paris, France.
| | - Christophe Simian
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, AP-HP, 20 rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Laprévote
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, AP-HP, 20 rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Marie-Anne Loriot
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, AP-HP, 20 rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France; Paris University, INSERM UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, 15 rue de l'Ecole de médecine, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Islam Amine Larabi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Paris-Saclay University (Versailles Saint-Quentin-En-Yvelines University), Inserm U-1173, Raymond Poincaré Hospital, AP-HP, 104 Boulevard Raymond Poincaré, 92380 Garches, France
| | - Nicolas Pallet
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Georges Pompidou European Hospital, AP-HP, 20 rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France; Paris University, INSERM UMRS1138, Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, 15 rue de l'Ecole de médecine, 75006 Paris, France
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12
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Solianik R, Schwieler L, Trepci A, Erhardt S, Brazaitis M. Two-day fasting affects kynurenine pathway with additional modulation of short-term whole-body cooling: a quasi-randomised crossover trial. Br J Nutr 2022; 129:1-8. [PMID: 35791050 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114522002069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Metabolites of the kynurenine (KYN) pathway of tryptophan (TRP) degradation have attracted interest as potential pathophysiological mediators and future diagnostic biomarkers. A greater knowledge of the pathological implications of the metabolites is associated with a need for a better understanding of how the normal behaviour and physiological activities impact their concentrations. This study aimed to investigate whether fasting (FAST) and whole-body cold-water immersion (CWI) affect KYN pathway metabolites. Thirteen young women were randomly assigned to receive the 2-d FAST with two 10-min CWI on separate days (FAST-CWI), 2-d FAST without CWI (FAST-CON), 2-d two CWI on separate days without FAST (CON-CWI) or the 2-d usual diet without CWI (CON-CON) in a randomised crossover fashion. Changes in plasma concentrations of TRP, kynurenic acid (KYNA), 3-hydroxy-kynurenine (3-HK), picolinic acid (PIC), quinolinic acid (QUIN) and nicotinamide (NAA) were determined with ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer. FAST-CWI and FAST-CON lowered TRP concentration (P < 0·05, ηp2 = 0·24), and increased concentrations of KYNA, 3-HK and PIC (P < 0·05, ηp2 = 0·21-0·71) with no additional effects of CWI. The ratio of PIC/QUIN increased after FAST-CWI and FAST-CON trials (P < 0·05) but with a blunted effect in the FAST-CWI trial (P < 0·05) compared with the FAST-CON trials (ηp2 = 0·67). Concentrations of QUIN and NAA were unaltered. This study demonstrated that fasting for 2 d considerably impacts the concentration of several metabolites in the KYN pathway. This should be considered when discussing the potential of KYN pathway metabolites as biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima Solianik
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Lilly Schwieler
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ada Trepci
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marius Brazaitis
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
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13
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Sánchez Chapul L, Pérez de la Cruz G, Ramos Chávez LA, Valencia León JF, Torres Beltrán J, Estrada Camarena E, Carillo Mora P, Ramírez Ortega D, Baños Vázquez JU, Martínez Nava G, Luna Angulo A, Martínez Canseco C, Wences Chirino TY, Ríos Martínez J, Pérez de la Cruz V. Characterization of Redox Environment and Tryptophan Catabolism through Kynurenine Pathway in Military Divers’ and Swimmers’ Serum Samples. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071223. [PMID: 35883715 PMCID: PMC9312203 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071223] [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: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endurance and resistance exercises, alone or in combination, induce metabolic changes that affect tryptophan (Trp) catabolism. The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the main route of Trp degradation, and it is modulated by the inflammatory and redox environments. Previous studies have shown that KP metabolites work as myokines that mediate the positive systemic effects related to exercise. However, it is poorly understood how different exercise modalities and intensities impact the KP. The aim of this study was to characterize the effect of two different exercise modalities, military diving and swimming, on the KP and the redox environment. A total of 34 healthy men from the Mexican Navy were included in the study, 20 divers and 14 swimmers, who started and stayed in military training consistently during the six months of the study; 12 Mexican men without fitness training were used as the control group. Physical fitness was determined at the beginning and after 6 months of training; criteria included body composition; serum levels of Trp, kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK); the glutathione ratio (GSH/GSSG); and malondialdehyde (MDA).. Results showed a significant loss of body fat in both the diver and swimmer groups. Compared with the control group, divers showed a decrease in Trp and 3-HK levels, but no changes were observed in the KYN/Trp, KYNA/Trp or 3-HK/Trp ratios, while swimmers showed a decrease in KYN levels and an increase in the KYNA and 3-HK levels. Additionally, divers showed a decrease in the GSH/GSSG ratio and an increase in MDA levels, in contrast to the swimmers, who showed a decrease in MDA levels and an increase in GSH/GSSG levels. Our findings suggest a differential shift in the KP and redox environment induced by diving and swimming. Swimming promotes an antioxidant environment and a peripheral overactivation of the KP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sánchez Chapul
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Neuromusculares, División de Neurociencias Clínicas, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico; (A.L.A.); (T.Y.W.C.)
- Dirección General Adjunta de Sanidad Naval, Secretaría de Marina Armada de México, Mexico City 04830, Mexico;
- Correspondence: (L.S.C.); (V.P.d.l.C.); Tel.: +52-55-5999-1000 (ext. 19204) (L.S.C.); +52-55-5606-3822 (ext. 2006) (V.P.d.l.C.)
| | - Gonzalo Pérez de la Cruz
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Lucio Antonio Ramos Chávez
- Departamento de Neuromorfología Funcional, Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría “Ramón de la Fuente”, Mexico City 14370, Mexico;
| | - Jesús F. Valencia León
- Dirección General Adjunta de Sanidad Naval, Secretaría de Marina Armada de México, Mexico City 04830, Mexico;
| | - Joel Torres Beltrán
- Subdirección de Medicina del Deporte, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Erika Estrada Camarena
- Laboratorio de Neuropsicofarmacología, Dirección de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría “Ramón de la Fuente”, Mexico City 14370, Mexico;
| | - Paul Carillo Mora
- División de Neurociencias Clínicas, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Daniela Ramírez Ortega
- Neuroimmunology Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico;
| | - José U. Baños Vázquez
- Escuela de Búsqueda y Rescate y Buceo, Secretaría de Marina Armada de México, Mexico City 04830, Mexico;
| | - Gabriela Martínez Nava
- Laboratorio de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Alexandra Luna Angulo
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Neuromusculares, División de Neurociencias Clínicas, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico; (A.L.A.); (T.Y.W.C.)
| | - Carlos Martínez Canseco
- Servicio de Bioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Tiffany Y. Wences Chirino
- Laboratorio de Enfermedades Neuromusculares, División de Neurociencias Clínicas, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico; (A.L.A.); (T.Y.W.C.)
| | - Juan Ríos Martínez
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud de la Secretaria de Marina, Mexico City 04849, Mexico;
| | - Verónica Pérez de la Cruz
- Neurobiochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico
- Correspondence: (L.S.C.); (V.P.d.l.C.); Tel.: +52-55-5999-1000 (ext. 19204) (L.S.C.); +52-55-5606-3822 (ext. 2006) (V.P.d.l.C.)
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14
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Paul ER, Schwieler L, Erhardt S, Boda S, Trepci A, Kämpe R, Asratian A, Holm L, Yngve A, Dantzer R, Heilig M, Hamilton JP, Samuelsson M. Peripheral and central kynurenine pathway abnormalities in major depression. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 101:136-145. [PMID: 34999196 PMCID: PMC9045681 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Considerable data relate major depressive disorder (MDD) with aberrant immune system functioning. Pro-inflammatory cytokines facilitate metabolism of tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway (KP) putatively resulting in reduced neuroprotective and increased neurotoxic KP metabolites in MDD, in addition to modulating metabolic and immune function. This central nervous system hypothesis has, however, only been tested in the periphery. Here, we measured KP-metabolite levels in both plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of depressed patients (n = 63/36 respectively) and healthy controls (n = 48/33). Further, we assessed the relation between KP abnormalities and brain-structure volumes, as well as body mass index (BMI), an index of metabolic disturbance associated with atypical depression. Plasma levels of picolinic acid (PIC), the kynurenic/quinolinic acid ratio (KYNA/QUIN), and PIC/QUIN were lower in MDD, but QUIN levels were increased. In the CSF, we found lower PIC in MDD. Confirming previous work, MDD patients had lower hippocampal, and amygdalar volumes. Hippocampal and amygdalar volumes were correlated positively with plasma KYNA/QUIN ratio in MDD patients. BMI was increased in the MDD group relative to the control group. Moreover, BMI was inversely correlated with plasma and CSF PIC and PIC/QUIN, and positively correlated with plasma QUIN levels in MDD. Our results partially confirm previous peripheral KP findings and extend them to the CSF in MDD. We present the novel finding that abnormalities in KP metabolites are related to metabolic disturbances in depression, but the relation between KP metabolites and depression-associated brain atrophy might not be as direct as previously hypothesized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth R Paul
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Center for Medical Imaging and Visualization, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lilly Schwieler
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sandra Boda
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Center for Medical Imaging and Visualization, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Psychiatry, Region Östergötland, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ada Trepci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robin Kämpe
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Center for Medical Imaging and Visualization, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna Asratian
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lovisa Holm
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Adam Yngve
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Center for Medical Imaging and Visualization, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robert Dantzer
- Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Markus Heilig
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Psychiatry, Region Östergötland, Linköping, Sweden
| | - J Paul Hamilton
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Center for Medical Imaging and Visualization, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Martin Samuelsson
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Psychiatry, Region Östergötland, Linköping, Sweden
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15
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Yamashita M, Suzuki M, Kawagoe T, Asano K, Futada M, Nakai R, Abe N, Sekiyama K. Impact of Early-Commenced and Continued Sports Training on the Precuneus in Older Athletes. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:766935. [PMID: 34955788 PMCID: PMC8692267 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.766935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervention studies on sedentary older adults have demonstrated that commencing physical exercise at an older age has a positive effect on brain structure. Although this suggests that older athletes with lifelong sports training have larger gray matter volume (GMV) in some brain regions compared to age-matched non-athletes, evidence in the literature is scarce. Moreover, it remains unclear whether a larger GMV is associated with training intensity or period of training in life. To address these gaps in the literature, we compared regional brain GMV between 24 older athletes (mean age, 71.4 years; age at the commencement of sports training, 31.2 years, continuous sports training, 40.0 years; current training time, 7.9 h/week) and 24 age-matched non-athletes (mean age, 71.0 years). The period of sports training and the current training time of the athletes were assessed. Both groups were evaluated for physical activity intensity as well as cognitive and motor performance. Although no group differences were noted in cognitive and motor performance, athletes reported higher physical activity intensity than non-athletes. Whole-brain structural analysis revealed a significantly larger GMV in several brain regions in athletes. Notably, the GMV of the precuneus in athletes was positively correlated with earlier commencement of sports training and training duration but was negatively correlated with current training time. Our findings demonstrate that early-commenced and continued sports training predicts structural maintenance of the precuneus in old age. Our results also suggest that excessive training time in old age may have a negative impact on the GMV of the precuneus; thereby delineating how the precuneus is associated with lifelong sports training in older athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Yamashita
- Graduate School of Advanced Integrated Studies in Human Survivability, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Maki Suzuki
- Department of Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychiatry, Osaka University United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka, Japan.,Faculty of Letters, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Toshikazu Kawagoe
- Faculty of Letters, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Liberal Arts Education Center, Kyushu Campuses, Tokai University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kohei Asano
- Faculty of Child Care and Education, Osaka University of Comprehensive Children Education, Osaka, Japan.,Kokoro Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Ryusuke Nakai
- Kokoro Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nobuhito Abe
- Kokoro Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kaoru Sekiyama
- Graduate School of Advanced Integrated Studies in Human Survivability, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Faculty of Letters, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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16
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Kędzierski W, Sadok I, Kowalik S, Janczarek I, Staniszewska M. Does the type of exercise affect tryptophan catabolism in horses? Animal 2021; 15:100377. [PMID: 34624767 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan (Trp) is an essential amino acid which metabolises via the kynurenine pathway to generate a number of bioactive substances referred to as kynurenines. Among those are 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HKyn) and quinolinic acid, which are neurotoxic, as well as kynurenic acid (Kyna) and xanthurenic acid (XA), which, similarly to nicotinamide (NAm), show neuroprotective and anti-depressive effects. Routine exercise is known to modulate Trp metabolism in skeletal muscle and is thus believed to reduce the risk of depressive states in humans and laboratory animals. Analogously, it was hypothesised that exercise can influence Trp metabolism in horses as well. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of two different types of exercise on Trp metabolism in horses of the same breed. A total of 32 purebred Arabian horses were involved in the study. The 22 three-year-old racehorses were subjected to short-time intense exercise. Ten other horses were made to perform endurance competitions at a distance of 80 km. Blood samples were collected at rest and following the end of the exercise period. Plasma concentrations of Trp, kynurenine (Kyn), Kyna, 3-HKyn, XA and NAm were determined using Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionisation-Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Short-time intense exercise led to an increase in plasma concentrations of Kyn, Kyna and XA. The endurance effort induced an increase in Kyna and a decrease in Trp and NAm levels. Both types of exercise, short-time intensive exercise and endurance exercise induced an increase in Trp metabolites, especially Kyna, and did not induce an increase in Trp level. Thus, from a pathophysiological perspective of the kynurenine pathway's influence on mental state, both types of exercise induced beneficial effects in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Kędzierski
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - I Sadok
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, 20-708 Lublin, Poland
| | - S Kowalik
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland.
| | - I Janczarek
- Department of Horse Breeding and Use, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - M Staniszewska
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, 20-708 Lublin, Poland
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17
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Wyckelsma VL, Trepci A, Schwieler L, Venckunas T, Brazaitis M, Kamandulis S, Paulauskas H, Gapeyeva H, Pääsuke M, Gastaldello S, Imbeault S, Westerblad H, Erhardt S, Andersson DC. Vitamin C and E Treatment Blocks Changes in Kynurenine Metabolism Triggered by Three Weeks of Sprint Interval Training in Recreationally Active Elderly Humans. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10091443. [PMID: 34573075 PMCID: PMC8465740 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) is gaining attention in several clinical fields. Recent studies show that physical exercise offers a therapeutic way to improve ratios of neurotoxic to neuroprotective KP metabolites. Antioxidant supplementation can blunt beneficial responses to physical exercise. We here studied the effects of endurance training in the form of sprint interval training (SIT; three sessions of 4–6 × 30 s cycling sprints per week for three weeks) in elderly (~65 years) men exposed to either placebo (n = 9) or the antioxidants vitamin C (1 g/day) and E (235 mg/day) (n = 11). Blood samples and muscle biopsies were taken under resting conditions in association with the first (untrained state) and last (trained state) SIT sessions. In the placebo group, the blood plasma level of the neurotoxic quinolinic acid was lower (~30%) and the neuroprotective kynurenic acid to quinolinic acid ratio was higher (~50%) in the trained than in the untrained state. Moreover, muscle biopsies showed a training-induced increase in kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) III in the placebo group. All these training effects were absent in the vitamin-treated group. In conclusion, KP metabolism was shifted towards neuroprotection after three weeks of SIT in elderly men and this shift was blocked by antioxidant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria L. Wyckelsma
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Ada Trepci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
- Institute of Sports Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, 44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; (T.V.); (M.B.); (S.K.); (H.P.)
| | - Lilly Schwieler
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Tomas Venckunas
- Institute of Sports Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, 44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; (T.V.); (M.B.); (S.K.); (H.P.)
| | - Marius Brazaitis
- Institute of Sports Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, 44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; (T.V.); (M.B.); (S.K.); (H.P.)
| | - Sigitas Kamandulis
- Institute of Sports Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, 44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; (T.V.); (M.B.); (S.K.); (H.P.)
| | - Henrikas Paulauskas
- Institute of Sports Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, 44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; (T.V.); (M.B.); (S.K.); (H.P.)
| | - Helena Gapeyeva
- Clinic of Medical Rehabilitation, Inpatient Rehabilitation Centre, East Tallinn Central Hospital, 10138 Tallinn, Estonia;
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia;
| | - Mati Pääsuke
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 50090 Tartu, Estonia;
| | - Stefano Gastaldello
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Sophie Imbeault
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Håkan Westerblad
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
- Institute of Sports Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, 44221 Kaunas, Lithuania; (T.V.); (M.B.); (S.K.); (H.P.)
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
| | - Daniel C. Andersson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (V.L.W.); (A.T.); (L.S.); (S.G.); (S.I.); (H.W.); (S.E.)
- Cardiology Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 64 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence:
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18
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Marszalek-Grabska M, Walczak K, Gawel K, Wicha-Komsta K, Wnorowska S, Wnorowski A, Turski WA. Kynurenine emerges from the shadows – Current knowledge on its fate and function. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 225:107845. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Valente-Silva P, Cervenka I, Ferreira DMS, Correia JC, Edman S, Horwath O, Heng B, Chow S, Jacobs KR, Guillemin GJ, Blomstrand E, Ruas JL. Effects of Tryptophan Supplementation and Exercise on the Fate of Kynurenine Metabolites in Mice and Humans. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11080508. [PMID: 34436450 PMCID: PMC8400416 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11080508] [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: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway of tryptophan (TRP) degradation (KP) generates metabolites with effects on metabolism, immunity, and mental health. Endurance exercise training can change KP metabolites by changing the levels of KP enzymes in skeletal muscle. This leads to a metabolite pattern that favors energy expenditure and an anti-inflammatory immune cell profile and reduces neurotoxic metabolites. Here, we aimed to understand if TRP supplementation in untrained vs. trained subjects affects KP metabolite levels and biological effects. Our data show that chronic TRP supplementation in mice increases all KP metabolites in circulation, and that exercise reduces the neurotoxic branch of the pathway. However, in addition to increasing wheel running, we did not observe other effects of TRP supplementation on training adaptations, energy metabolism or behavior in mice. A similar increase in KP metabolites was seen in trained vs. untrained human volunteers that took a TRP drink while performing a bout of aerobic exercise. With this acute TRP administration, TRP and KYN were higher in the trained vs. the untrained group. Considering the many biological effects of the KP, which can lead to beneficial or deleterious effects to health, our data encourage future studies of the crosstalk between TRP supplementation and physical exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Valente-Silva
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Igor Cervenka
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Duarte M. S. Ferreira
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Jorge C. Correia
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Sebastian Edman
- Department of Physiology, Nutrition and Biomechanics, Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, 114 33 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.E.); (O.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Oscar Horwath
- Department of Physiology, Nutrition and Biomechanics, Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, 114 33 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.E.); (O.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Benjamin Heng
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Sharron Chow
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Kelly R. Jacobs
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Gilles J. Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Eva Blomstrand
- Department of Physiology, Nutrition and Biomechanics, Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, 114 33 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.E.); (O.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Jorge L. Ruas
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
- Correspondence:
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