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Haroun E, Lim SH, Dutta D. Endari treatment ameliorates sickle cell-related disruption in intestinal barrier functions and is associated with prolonged survival in sickle cell mice. Hematology 2024; 29:2331940. [PMID: 38526293 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2024.2331940] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endari (L-glutamine) is a conditional amino acid that reduces the frequency of vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) in sickle cell disease (SCD). AIM To investigate whether Endari could ameliorate intestinal barrier function and improve survival outcomes in SCD. METHODS We treated female Townes SCD mice with Endari and evaluated their intestinal barrier functions by measuring the recovery of orally administered fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated dextran 4 kDa in serum, and serum intestinal fatty acid binding proteins (iFABP) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentrations by ELISA. We also explored the impact the Endari has on the survival of the SCD mice that underwent repeated experimentally-induced VOC. RESULTS Compared to SCD mice treated with water only, Endari-treated mice showed improved intestinal barrier functions, with decrease in the barrier permeability and reduction in the translocation of lipopolysaccharides from the intestinal lumen into the circulation. These changes occurred after only 4 weeks of Endari treatment. Improved intestinal barrier function was also associated with prolonged survival in Endari-treated SCD mice after repeated experimentally-induced VOC. CONCLUSION Our findings provide the evidence supporting the beneficial effects of Enadri in improving intestinal barrier function and associated survival outcomes in SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elio Haroun
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Seah H Lim
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Dibyendu Dutta
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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2
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Joung B, Miles E, Al-Manaseer F, Jeon WJ, Wijaya D, Moon JH, Han P, Lee J, Mehta A, Tseng A, Ngo K, Cao H, Chong EG. Early Administration of Intravenous Hydration and Opioid Analgesics Is Correlated with Decreased Admission Rates during Vaso-Occlusive Episodes in Sickle Cell Disease. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1858. [PMID: 38610622 PMCID: PMC11012470 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13071858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Painful vaso-occlusive episodes (VOEs) are the hallmark of sickle cell disease (SCD) and account for frequent visits to the emergency department (ED) or urgent care (UC). Currently, the early administration of analgesics is recommended as initial management; however, there is a need for further understanding of the effect of prompt analgesics and hydration during VOEs. The objective of this study is to analyze the factors associated with the rate of hospital admission in the setting of time to intravenous (IV) analgesics and hydration. Method: This retrospective single-institution study reviewed adult and pediatric patients with SCD who presented with VOEs from January 2018 to August 2023. Results: Of 303 patient encounters, the rates of admission for the overall group, the subgroup which received IV hydration within 60 min of arrival, and the subgroup which received both IV analgesics and hydration within 60 min were 51.8%, 25.6% (RR = 0.46), and 18.2% (RR = 0.33), respectively. Further, factors such as gender and the use of hydroxyurea were found to be significantly associated with the rate of admission. Conclusions: This signifies the importance of standardizing the management of VOEs through the timely administration of IV analgesics and hydration in both adult and pediatric ED/UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowon Joung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (B.J.); (E.M.); (W.J.J.); (D.W.); (J.H.M.)
| | - Ethan Miles
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (B.J.); (E.M.); (W.J.J.); (D.W.); (J.H.M.)
| | - Farris Al-Manaseer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (B.J.); (E.M.); (W.J.J.); (D.W.); (J.H.M.)
| | - Won Jin Jeon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (B.J.); (E.M.); (W.J.J.); (D.W.); (J.H.M.)
| | - Darren Wijaya
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (B.J.); (E.M.); (W.J.J.); (D.W.); (J.H.M.)
| | - Jin Hyun Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA; (B.J.); (E.M.); (W.J.J.); (D.W.); (J.H.M.)
| | - Philip Han
- School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA (J.L.)
| | - Jae Lee
- School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA (J.L.)
| | - Akhil Mehta
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Alan Tseng
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.T.)
| | - Kaylin Ngo
- Department of Biological Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Huynh Cao
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.T.)
| | - Esther G. Chong
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA; (A.T.)
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3
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van Dijk MJ, Traets MJM, van Oirschot BA, Ruiter TJJ, de Wilde JRA, Bos J, van Solinge WW, Koziel MJ, Jans JJM, Wani R, van Beers EJ, van Wijk R, Rab MAE. A novel composition of endogenous metabolic modulators improves red blood cell properties in sickle cell disease. EJHAEM 2024; 5:21-32. [PMID: 38406513 PMCID: PMC10887255 DOI: 10.1002/jha2.850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The most common forms of sickle cell disease (SCD) are sickle cell anemia (SCA; HbSS) and HbSC disease. In both, especially the more dense, dehydrated and adherent red blood cells (RBCs) with reduced deformability are prone to hemolysis and sickling, and thereby vaso-occlusion. Based on plasma amino acid profiling in SCD, a composition of 10 amino acids and derivatives (RCitNacQCarLKHVS; Axcella Therapeutics, USA), referred to as endogenous metabolic modulators (EMMs), was designed to target RBC metabolism. The effects of ex vivo treatment with the EMM composition on different RBC properties were studied in SCD (n = 9 SCA, n = 5 HbSC disease). Dose-dependent improvements were observed in RBC hydration assessed by hemocytometry (MCV, MCHC, dense RBCs) and osmotic gradient ektacytometry (Ohyper). Median (interquartile range [IQR]) increase in Ohyper compared to vehicle was 4.9% (4.0%-5.5%), 7.5% (6.9%-9.4%), and 12.8% (11.5%-14.0%) with increasing 20×, 40×, and 80X concentrations, respectively (all p < 0.0001). RBC deformability (EImax using oxygen gradient ektacytometry) increased by 8.1% (2.2%-12.1%; p = 0.0012), 9.6% (2.9%-15.1%; p = 0.0013), and 13.3% (5.7%-25.5%; p = 0.0007), respectively. Besides, RBC adhesion to subendothelial laminin decreased by 43% (6%-68%; p = 0.4324), 58% (48%-72%; p = 0.0185), and 71% (49%-82%; p = 0.0016), respectively. Together, these results provide a rationale for further studies with the EMM composition targeting multiple RBC properties in SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrthe J. van Dijk
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Center for Benign Hematology, Thrombosis and Hemostasis—Van CreveldkliniekUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Marissa J. M. Traets
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Brigitte A. van Oirschot
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Titine J. J. Ruiter
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Section Metabolic Diagnostics, Department of GeneticsUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Jonathan R. A. de Wilde
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Jennifer Bos
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Wouter W. van Solinge
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | | | - Judith J. M. Jans
- Section Metabolic Diagnostics, Department of GeneticsUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Revati Wani
- Axcella TherapeuticsCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.CambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Eduard J. van Beers
- Center for Benign Hematology, Thrombosis and Hemostasis—Van CreveldkliniekUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Richard van Wijk
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Minke A. E. Rab
- Department of Central Diagnostic Laboratory—Research, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Department of HematologyUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
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4
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Giannaki A, Georgatzakou HΤ, Fortis SP, Anastasiadi AT, Pavlou EG, Nomikou EG, Drandaki MP, Kotsiafti A, Xydaki A, Fountzoula C, Papageorgiou EG, Tzounakas VL, Kriebardis AG. Stratification of β Sβ + Compound Heterozygotes Based on L-Glutamine Administration and RDW: Focusing on Disease Severity. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1982. [PMID: 38001835 PMCID: PMC10669421 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12111982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is heterogeneous in terms of manifestation severity, even more so when in compound heterozygosity with beta-thalassemia. The aim of the present study was to stratify βSβ+ patient blood samples in a severity-dependent manner. Blood from thirty-two patients with HbS/β-thalassemia compound heterozygosity was examined for several parameters (e.g., hemostasis, inflammation, redox equilibrium) against healthy controls. Additionally, SCD patients were a posteriori (a) categorized based on the L-glutamine dose and (b) clustered into high-/low-RDW subgroups. The patient cohort was characterized by anemia, inflammation, and elevated coagulation. Higher-dose administration of L-glutamine was associated with decreased markers of inflammation and oxidation (e.g., intracellular reactive oxygen species) and an altered coagulation profile. The higher-RDW group was characterized by increased hemolysis, elevated markers of inflammation and stress erythropoiesis, and oxidative phenomena (e.g., membrane-bound hemoglobin). Moreover, the levels of hemostasis parameters (e.g., D-Dimers) were greater compared to the lower-RDW subgroup. The administration of higher doses of L-glutamine along with hydroxyurea seems to attenuate several features in SCD patients, probably by enhancing antioxidant power. Moreover, anisocytosis may alter erythrocytes' coagulation processes and hemolytic propensity. This results in the disruption of the redox and pro-/anti-inflammatory equilibria, creating a positive feedback loop by inducing stress erythropoiesis and, thus, the occurrence of a mixed erythrocyte population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimilia Giannaki
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (A.G.); (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (A.T.A.); (E.G.P.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Hara Τ. Georgatzakou
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (A.G.); (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (A.T.A.); (E.G.P.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Sotirios P. Fortis
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (A.G.); (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (A.T.A.); (E.G.P.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Alkmini T. Anastasiadi
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (A.G.); (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (A.T.A.); (E.G.P.); (E.G.P.)
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | - Efthimia G. Pavlou
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (A.G.); (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (A.T.A.); (E.G.P.); (E.G.P.)
- Blood Bank and Hemophilia Unit, Hippokration Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Efrosyni G. Nomikou
- Blood Bank and Hemophilia Unit, Hippokration Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Maria P. Drandaki
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Unit, Expertise Center of Hemoglobinopathies and Their Complications, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.P.D.); (A.K.); (A.X.)
| | - Angeliki Kotsiafti
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Unit, Expertise Center of Hemoglobinopathies and Their Complications, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.P.D.); (A.K.); (A.X.)
| | - Aikaterini Xydaki
- Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Unit, Expertise Center of Hemoglobinopathies and Their Complications, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.P.D.); (A.K.); (A.X.)
| | - Christina Fountzoula
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Cosmetic Science (ChemBiochemCosm), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece;
| | - Effie G. Papageorgiou
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (A.G.); (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (A.T.A.); (E.G.P.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Vassilis L. Tzounakas
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | - Anastasios G. Kriebardis
- Laboratory of Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology (HemQcR), Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health & Caring Sciences, University of West Attica (UniWA), 12243 Egaleo, Greece; (A.G.); (H.T.G.); (S.P.F.); (A.T.A.); (E.G.P.); (E.G.P.)
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Katoch O, Ungalara R, Kaminski T, Li Z, Dubey RK, Burholt I, Gudapati S, Pradhan-Sundd T. Long-Term L-Glutamine Treatment Reduces Hemolysis without Ameliorating Hepatic Vaso-Occlusion and Liver Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of Sickle Cell Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2412. [PMID: 37760853 PMCID: PMC10526062 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive monogenic disorder caused by a homozygous mutation in the β-globin gene, which leads to erythrocyte sickling, hemolysis, vaso-occlusion, and sterile inflammation. The administration of oral L-glutamine has been shown to reduce the frequency of pain in SCD patients; however, the long-term effect of L-glutamine in SCD remains to be determined. To understand the long-term effect of L-glutamine administration in the liver we used quantitative liver intravital microscopy and biochemical analysis in humanized SCD mice. We here show that chronic L-glutamine administration reduces hepatic hemoglobin-heme-iron levels but fails to ameliorate ischemic liver injury. Remarkably, we found that this failure in the resolution of hepatobiliary injury and persistent liver fibrosis is associated with the reduced expression of hepatic Kupffer cells post-L-glutamine treatment. These findings establish the importance of investigating the long-term effects of L-glutamine therapy on liver pathophysiology in SCD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omika Katoch
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Ramakrishna Ungalara
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Tomasz Kaminski
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Ziming Li
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Rikesh K. Dubey
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Isabella Burholt
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Shweta Gudapati
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Tirthadipa Pradhan-Sundd
- Pittsburgh Heart, Lung and Blood Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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6
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Obadina M, Wilson S, Derebail VK, Little J. Emerging Therapies and Advances in Sickle Cell Disease with a Focus on Renal Manifestations. KIDNEY360 2023; 4:997-1005. [PMID: 37254256 PMCID: PMC10371301 DOI: 10.34067/kid.0000000000000162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The underlying mechanisms of disease in sickle cell disease (SCD) contribute to a multifaceted nephropathy, commonly manifested as albuminuria. In severe SCD genotypes ( e.g. , Hemoglobin SS [HbSS]), albuminuria and CKD are major predictors of mortality in this population. Therefore, the monitoring and management of renal function is an intrinsic part of comprehensive care in SCD. Management of nephropathy in SCD can be accomplished with SCD-directed therapies and/or CKD-directed therapies. In the past 5 years, novel disease-modifying and palliative therapies have been approved in SCD to target aspects of the disease, such as anemia, inflammation, and vasculopathy. Along with conventional hydroxyurea and chronic transfusion, l -glutamine, crizanlizumab, and voxelotor have all been shown to mitigate some adverse effect of SCD, and their effect on nephropathy is being investigated. CKD-directed therapies such as renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockers have long been used in SCD nephropathy; however, more complete long-term studies on benefits are needed. Given the effect of renal disease on survival, further assessment of the mechanisms and efficacy of these SCD-directed or CKD-directed therapeutic agents is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mofiyin Obadina
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Sam Wilson
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- UNC Blood Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Vimal K. Derebail
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jane Little
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- UNC Blood Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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7
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Gong J, Osipov A, Lorber J, Tighiouart M, Kwan AK, Muranaka H, Akinsola R, Billet S, Levi A, Abbas A, Davelaar J, Bhowmick N, Hendifar AE. Combination L-Glutamine with Gemcitabine and Nab-Paclitaxel in Treatment-Naïve Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: The Phase I GlutaPanc Study Protocol. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1392. [PMID: 37239063 PMCID: PMC10216251 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced pancreatic cancer is underscored by progressive therapeutic resistance and a dismal 5-year survival rate of 3%. Preclinical data demonstrated glutamine supplementation, not deprivation, elicited antitumor effects against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) alone and in combination with gemcitabine in a dose-dependent manner. The GlutaPanc phase I trial is a single-arm, open-label clinical trial investigating the safety of combination L-glutamine, gemcitabine, and nab-paclitaxel in subjects (n = 16) with untreated, locally advanced unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer. Following a 7-day lead-in phase with L-glutamine, the dose-finding phase via Bayesian design begins with treatment cycles lasting 28 days until disease progression, intolerance, or withdrawal. The primary objective is to establish the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of combination L-glutamine, gemcitabine, and nab-paclitaxel. Secondary objectives include safety of the combination across all dose levels and preliminary evidence of antitumor activity. Exploratory objectives include evaluating changes in plasma metabolites across multiple time points and changes in the stool microbiome pre and post L-glutamine supplementation. If this phase I clinical trial demonstrates the feasibility of L-glutamine in combination with nab-paclitaxel and gemcitabine, we would advance the development of this combination as a first-line systemic option in subjects with metastatic pancreatic cancer, a high-risk subgroup desperately in need of additional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Gong
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Arsen Osipov
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Jeremy Lorber
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Mourad Tighiouart
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Research Center, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Albert K. Kwan
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Hayato Muranaka
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Rasaq Akinsola
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Sandrine Billet
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Abrahm Levi
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Anser Abbas
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - John Davelaar
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Neil Bhowmick
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Andrew E. Hendifar
- Department of Medicine, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
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8
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Lowe M, Bambhroliya Z, Patel H, Patel VJ, Vudugula SA, Cheruvu NP, Raza S, Okunlola OI. Emerging Therapies for the Management of Pain and Vaso-Occlusive Crises in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Cureus 2023; 15:e38014. [PMID: 37223201 PMCID: PMC10204617 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder that impairs red blood cells (RBCs) and disrupts the delivery of oxygen to tissues. There is currently no cure. Symptoms can appear as early as six months of age and include anemia, acute episodes of pain, swelling, infections, delayed growth, and vision problems. A growing number of therapies are being investigated for reducing these episodes of pain, also known as vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs). The research literature evidence, however, currently includes far more approaches that have not shown superiority versus placebo than ones that have been proven effective. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the body of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the quality of support for and against the use of a variety of current and emerging therapies for treading SCD VOCs. Several important new papers have emerged since previous systematic reviews with similar objectives were published. This review was conducted according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and focused on PubMed exclusively. Only RCTs were sought, and no other filters, except for a five-year historical timeline cut-off, were used. Of the 46 publications that were returned in response to the query, 18 were ultimately accepted as meeting the pre-established inclusion criteria. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool was utilized as a quality assessment measure, and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) framework was used to assess the certainty of the evidence. Among the included publications, five out of 18 featured positive results with superiority and statistical significance versus placebo for either reduction in pain score or number/duration of VOCs. The approaches featured therapies ranging from de novo molecules to currently available drugs approved for other indications to naturally occurring metabolites such as amino acids and vitamins. A single therapy, arginine, was supported for both clinical endpoints: pain score reduction and shortened VOC duration. Currently, two therapies are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are commercially available (crizanlizumab, ADAKVEO and L-glutamine, Endari). All other therapies are investigational only in nature. Several studies included measurement of biomarker endpoints as well as clinical outcomes. Generally, beneficial outcomes related to improving biomarker levels did not also translate into statistically significant reduction of pain scores or number/duration of VOCs. While measuring biomarkers may contribute to the understanding of pathophysiology, it does not appear to directly offer predictive value toward treatment success clinically. It can be concluded that there exists a specific opportunity to design, fund, and execute investigations that both compare emerging and existing therapies versus one another and compare combinational therapies versus placebo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lowe
- Seeking Anesthesiology, Ross University School of Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Zarna Bambhroliya
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Hesha Patel
- Internal Medicine, Capital Health Medical Center, New Jersey, USA
| | - Vishva J Patel
- Medicine, Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society (GMERS) Medical College, Vadodara, IND
| | | | | | - Shafaat Raza
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Gibson JS, Rees DC. Emerging drug targets for sickle cell disease: shedding light on new knowledge and advances at the molecular level. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:133-149. [PMID: 36803179 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2179484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In sickle cell disease (SCD), a single amino acid substitution at β6 of the hemoglobin (Hb) chain replaces glutamate with valine, forming HbS instead of the normal adult HbA. Loss of a negative charge, and the conformational change in deoxygenated HbS molecules, enables formation of HbS polymers. These not only distort red cell morphology but also have other profound effects so that this simple etiology belies a complex pathogenesis with multiple complications. Although SCD represents a common severe inherited disorder with life-long consequences, approved treatments remain inadequate. Hydroxyurea is currently the most effective, with a handful of newer treatments, but there remains a real need for novel, efficacious therapies. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes important early events in pathogenesis to highlight key targets for novel treatments. EXPERT OPINION A thorough understanding of early events in pathogenesis closely associated with the presence of HbS is the logical starting point for identification of new targets rather than concentrating on more downstream effects. We discuss ways of reducing HbS levels, reducing the impact of HbS polymers, and of membrane events perturbing cell function, and suggest using the unique permeability of sickle cells to target drugs specifically into those more severely compromised.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Gibson
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - David C Rees
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Torres LS, Asada N, Weiss MJ, Trumpp A, Suda T, Scadden DT, Ito K. Recent advances in "sickle and niche" research - Tribute to Dr. Paul S Frenette. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1509-1535. [PMID: 35830837 PMCID: PMC9287685 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In this retrospective, we review the two research topics that formed the basis of the outstanding career of Dr. Paul S. Frenette. In the first part, we focus on sickle cell disease (SCD). The defining feature of SCD is polymerization of the deoxygenated mutant hemoglobin, which leads to a vicious cycle of hemolysis and vaso-occlusion. We survey important discoveries in SCD pathophysiology that have led to recent advances in treatment of SCD. The second part focuses on the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) niche, the complex microenvironment within the bone marrow that controls HSC function and homeostasis. We detail the cells that constitute this niche, and the factors that these cells use to exert control over hematopoiesis. Here, we trace the scientific paths of Dr. Frenette, highlight key aspects of his research, and identify his most important scientific contributions in both fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidiane S Torres
- Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Noboru Asada
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Mitchell J Weiss
- Department of Hematology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Andreas Trumpp
- Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM gGmbH), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Toshio Suda
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; International Research Center for Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - David T Scadden
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Keisuke Ito
- Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA; Einstein Diabetes Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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11
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Abstract
IMPORTANCE Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder of hemoglobin, characterized by formation of long chains of hemoglobin when deoxygenated within capillary beds, resulting in sickle-shaped red blood cells, progressive multiorgan damage, and increased mortality. An estimated 300 000 infants are born annually worldwide with SCD. Most individuals with SCD live in sub-Saharan Africa, India, the Mediterranean, and Middle East; approximately 100 000 individuals with SCD live in the US. OBSERVATIONS SCD is diagnosed through newborn screening programs, where available, or when patients present with unexplained severe atraumatic pain or normocytic anemia. In SCD, sickling and hemolysis of red blood cells result in vaso-occlusion with associated ischemia. SCD is characterized by repeated episodes of severe acute pain and acute chest syndrome, and by other complications including stroke, chronic pain, nephropathy, retinopathy, avascular necrosis, priapism, and leg ulcers. In the US, nearly all children with SCD survive to adulthood, but average life expectancy remains 20 years less than the general population, with higher mortality as individuals transition from pediatric to adult-focused health care systems. Until 2017, hydroxyurea, which increases fetal hemoglobin and reduces red blood cell sickling, was the only disease-modifying therapy available for SCD and remains first-line therapy for most individuals with SCD. Three additional therapies, L-glutamine, crizanlizumab, and voxelotor, have been approved as adjunctive or second-line agents. In clinical trials, L-glutamine reduced hospitalization rates by 33% and mean length of stay from 11 to 7 days compared with placebo. Crizanlizumab reduced pain crises from 2.98 to 1.63 per year compared with placebo. Voxelotor increased hemoglobin by at least 1 g/dL, significantly more than placebo (51% vs 7%). Hematopoietic stem cell transplant is the only curative therapy, but it is limited by donor availability, with best results seen in children with a matched sibling donor. While SCD is characterized by acute and chronic pain, patients are not more likely to develop addiction to pain medications than the general population. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In the US, approximately 100 000 people have SCD, which is characterized by hemolytic anemia, acute and chronic pain, acute chest syndrome; increased incidence of stroke, nephropathy, and retinopathy; and a life span that is 20 years shorter than the general population. While hydroxyurea is first-line therapy for SCD, L-glutamine, crizanlizumab, and voxelotor have been approved in the US since 2017 as adjunctive or second-line treatments, and hematopoietic stem cell transplant with a matched sibling donor is now standard care for severe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia L Kavanagh
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Titilope A Fasipe
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston
| | - Ted Wun
- School of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of California Davis, Sacramento
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12
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L-glutamine for sickle cell disease: more than reducing redox. Ann Hematol 2022; 101:1645-1654. [PMID: 35568758 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-022-04867-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a major contributor to the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD) including hemolysis and vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC). L-glutamine is a conditionally essential amino acid with important roles, including the synthesis of antioxidants, such as reduced glutathione and the cofactors NAD(H) and NADP(H), as well as nitric oxide. Given the increased levels of oxidative stress and lower (NADH):(NAD + + NADH) ratio in sickle erythrocytes that adversely affects the blood rheology compared to normal red blood cells, L-glutamine was investigated for its therapeutic potential to reduce VOC. While L-glutamine was approved by the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration to treat SCD, its impact on the redox environment in sickle erythrocytes is not fully understood. The mechanism through which L-glutamine reduces VOC in SCD is also not clear. In this paper, we will summarize the results of the Phase 3 study that led to the approval of L-glutamine for treating SCD and discuss its assumed mechanisms of action. We will examine the role of L-glutamine in health and propose how the extra-erythrocytic functions of L-glutamine might contribute to its beneficial effects in SCD. Further research into the role of L-glutamine on extra-erythrocyte functions might help the development of an improved formulation with more efficacy.
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Higgins T, Menditto MA, Katartzis S, Matson KL. Advances in the Management of Sickle Cell Disease: New Concepts and Future Horizons. J Pediatr Pharmacol Ther 2022; 27:206-213. [PMID: 35350156 DOI: 10.5863/1551-6776-27.3.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease is a chronic and life-limiting disorder. Approximately 100,000 Americans are affected with sickle cell disease with most being African Americans. Newborn screening for sickle cell is available in the United States, leading to early detection and management of the disease beginning in infancy. According to the 2014 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute sickle cell disease guidelines, supportive care has been primary management of sickle cell disease, with hydroxyurea being the only FDA-approved, disease-modifying pharmacotherapy available and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant the only cure. Since 2017, three new disease-modifying therapies have been approved by the FDA: L-glutamine, crizanlizumab, and voxelotor. This review will discuss pertinent trials, dosing, interactions, side effects, access, cost, and their role in sickle cell management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Higgins
- Department of Pharmacy (TH), UF Health Shands Hospital, Gainesville, FL
| | - Melissa A Menditto
- University of Rhode Island, College of Pharmacy (MAM, SK, KLM), Kingston, RI
| | - Stephanie Katartzis
- University of Rhode Island, College of Pharmacy (MAM, SK, KLM), Kingston, RI
| | - Kelly L Matson
- University of Rhode Island, College of Pharmacy (MAM, SK, KLM), Kingston, RI.,Department of Pharmacy (KLM), UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MA
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Wang Q, Zennadi R. The Role of RBC Oxidative Stress in Sickle Cell Disease: From the Molecular Basis to Pathologic Implications. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10101608. [PMID: 34679742 PMCID: PMC8533084 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10101608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited monogenic disorder and the most common severe hemoglobinopathy in the world. SCD is characterized by a point mutation in the β-globin gene, which results in hemoglobin (Hb) S production, leading to a variety of mechanistic and phenotypic changes within the sickle red blood cell (RBC). In SCD, the sickle RBCs are the root cause of the disease and they are a primary source of oxidative stress since sickle RBC redox state is compromised due to an imbalance between prooxidants and antioxidants. This imbalance in redox state is a result of a continuous production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the sickle RBC caused by the constant endogenous Hb autoxidation and NADPH oxidase activation, as well as by a deficiency in the antioxidant defense system. Accumulation of non-neutralized ROS within the sickle RBCs affects RBC membrane structure and function, leading to membrane integrity deficiency, low deformability, phosphatidylserine exposure, and release of micro-vesicles. These oxidative stress-associated RBC phenotypic modifications consequently evoke a myriad of physiological changes involved in multi-system manifestations. Thus, RBC oxidative stress in SCD can ultimately instigate major processes involved in organ damage. The critical role of the sickle RBC ROS production and its regulation in SCD pathophysiology are discussed here.
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15
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Sagi V, Mittal A, Tran H, Gupta K. Pain in sickle cell disease: current and potential translational therapies. Transl Res 2021; 234:141-158. [PMID: 33711512 PMCID: PMC8217144 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Pain is a major comorbidity of sickle cell disease (SCD). Patients with SCD may suffer from both acute and chronic pain. Acute pain is caused by recurrent and unpredictable episodes of vaso-occlusive crises (VOC), whereas the exact etiology of chronic pain is still unknown. Opioids are the mainstay for pain treatment, but the opioid epidemic has significantly altered access to prescription opioids and has brought concerns over their long-term use into the forefront, which have negatively impacted the treatment of sickle pain. Opioids remain potent analgesics but growing opioid-phobia has led to the realization of an unmet need to develop nonopioid therapies that can provide relief for severe sickle pain. This realization has contributed to the approval of 3 different drugs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of SCD, particularly to reduce VOC and/or have an impact on the pathobiology of SCD. In this review, we outline the challenges and need for validation of side-effects of opioids and provide an update on the development of mechanism-based translational therapies, specifically targeting pain in SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Sagi
- School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Aditya Mittal
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Huy Tran
- School of Medicine, Kansas City University, Joplin, Missouri
| | - Kalpna Gupta
- Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine and Southern California Institute for Research and Education, VA Medical Center, Long Beach, California.
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16
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Pace BS, Perrine S, Li B, Makala L, Xu H, Takezaki M, Wolf RF, Wang A, Xu X, Huang J, Alimardanov A, Tawa GJ, Sangerman J, Faller A, Zheng W, Toney L, Haugabook SJ. Benserazide racemate and enantiomers induce fetal globin gene expression in vivo: Studies to guide clinical development for beta thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2021; 89:102561. [PMID: 33744514 PMCID: PMC8409227 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2021.102561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Increased expression of developmentally silenced fetal globin (HBG) reduces the clinical severity of β-hemoglobinopathies. Benserazide has a relatively benign safety profile having been approved for 50 years in Europe and Canada for Parkinson's disease treatment. Benserazide was shown to activate HBG gene transcription in a high throughput screen, and subsequent studies confirmed fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction in erythroid progenitors from hemoglobinopathy patients, transgenic mice containing the entire human β-globin gene (β-YAC) and anemic baboons. The goal of this study is to evaluate efficacies and plasma exposure profiles of benserazide racemate and its enantiomers to select the chemical form for clinical development. Intermittent treatment with all forms of benserazide in β-YAC mice significantly increased proportions of red blood cells expressing HbF and HbF protein per cell with similar pharmacokinetic profiles and with no cytopenia. These data contribute to the regulatory justification for development of the benserazide racemate. Additionally, dose ranges and frequencies required for HbF induction using racemic benserazide were explored. Orally administered escalating doses of benserazide in an anemic baboon induced γ-globin mRNA up to 13-fold and establish an intermittent dose regimen for clinical studies as a therapeutic candidate for potential treatment of β-hemoglobinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty S Pace
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Susan Perrine
- Phoenicia BioSciences, Weston, MA 02493, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hemoglobinopathy Thalassemia Research Unit, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Biaoru Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Levi Makala
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Mayuko Takezaki
- Department of Pediatrics, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Roman F Wolf
- Department of Comparative Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Amy Wang
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Xin Xu
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Junfeng Huang
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Asaf Alimardanov
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Gregory J Tawa
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jose Sangerman
- Phoenicia BioSciences, Weston, MA 02493, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hemoglobinopathy Thalassemia Research Unit, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Aidan Faller
- Phoenicia BioSciences, Weston, MA 02493, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Hemoglobinopathy Thalassemia Research Unit, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Wei Zheng
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - London Toney
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sharie J Haugabook
- Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) Program, Therapeutic Development Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Salinas Cisneros G, Thein SL. Research in Sickle Cell Disease: From Bedside to Bench to Bedside. Hemasphere 2021; 5:e584. [PMID: 34095767 PMCID: PMC8171370 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an exemplar of bidirectional translational research, starting with a remarkable astute observation of the abnormally shaped red blood cells that motivated decades of bench research that have now translated into new drugs and genetic therapies. Introduction of hydroxyurea (HU) therapy, the only SCD-modifying treatment for >30 years and now standard care, was initiated through another clinical observation by a pediatrician. While the clinical efficacy of HU is primarily due to its fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction, the exact mechanism of how it increases HbF remains not fully understood. Unraveling of the molecular mechanism of how HU increases HbF has provided insights on the development of new HbF-reactivating agents in the pipeline. HU has other salutary effects, reduction of cellular adhesion to the vascular endothelium and inflammation, and dissecting these mechanisms has informed bench-both cellular and animal-research for development of the 3 recently approved agents: endari, voxelotor, and crizanlizumab; truly, a bidirectional bench to bedside translation. Decades of research to understand the mechanisms of fetal to adult hemoglobin have also culminated in promising anti-sickling genetic therapies and the first-in-human studies of reactivating an endogenous (γ-globin) gene HBG utilizing innovative genomic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Salinas Cisneros
- Sickle Cell Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Swee Lay Thein
- Sickle Cell Branch, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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18
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Pavan AR, Dos Santos JL. Advances in Sickle Cell Disease Treatments. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:2008-2032. [PMID: 32520675 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200610175400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder of red blood cells that is caused by a single mutation in the β -globin gene. The disease, which afflicts millions of patients worldwide mainly in low income countries, is characterized by high morbidity, mortality and low life expectancy. The new pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies for SCD is urgent in order to promote treatments able to reduce patient's suffering and improve their quality of life. Since the FDA approval of HU in 1998, there have been few advances in discovering new drugs; however, in the last three years voxelotor, crizanlizumab, and glutamine have been approved as new therapeutic alternatives. In addition, new promising compounds have been described to treat the main SCD symptoms. Herein, focusing on drug discovery, we discuss new strategies to treat SCD that have been carried out in the last ten years to discover new, safe, and effective treatments. Moreover, non-pharmacological approaches, including red blood cell exchange, gene therapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Renata Pavan
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Jean Leandro Dos Santos
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
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19
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Osunkwo I, Manwani D, Kanter J. Current and novel therapies for the prevention of vaso-occlusive crisis in sickle cell disease. Ther Adv Hematol 2020; 11:2040620720955000. [PMID: 33062233 PMCID: PMC7534097 DOI: 10.1177/2040620720955000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) are living further into adulthood in high-resource countries. However, despite increased quantity of life, recurrent, acute painful episodes cause significant morbidity for affected individuals. These SCD-related painful episodes, also referred to as vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), have multifactorial causes, and they often occur as a result of multicellular aggregation and vascular adherence of red blood cells, neutrophils, and platelets, leading to recurrent and unpredictable occlusion of the microcirculation. In addition to severe pain, long-term complications of vaso-occlusion may include damage to muscle and/or bone, in addition to vital organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, and brain. Severe pain associated with VOCs also has a substantial detrimental impact on quality of life for individuals with SCD, and is associated with increased health care utilization, financial hardship, and impairments in education and vocation attainment. Previous treatments have targeted primarily SCD symptom management, or were broad nontargeted therapies, and include oral or parenteral hydration, analgesics (including opioids), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and various other types of nonpharmacologic pain management strategies to treat the pain associated with VOC. With increased understanding of the pathophysiology of VOCs, there are several new potential therapies that specifically target the pathologic process of vaso-occlusion. These new therapies may reduce cell adhesion and inflammation, leading to decreased incidence of VOCs and prevention of end-organ damage. In this review, we consider the benefits and limitations of current treatments to reduce the occurrence of VOCs in individuals with SCD and the potential impact of emerging treatments on future disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeyinwa Osunkwo
- Non-Malignant Hematology Section, The Levine Cancer Institute and Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Deepa Manwani
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Julie Kanter
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama Birmingham, 1720 2nd Avenue S, NP 2510, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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20
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Potential causal role of l-glutamine in sickle cell disease painful crises: A Mendelian randomization analysis. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2020; 86:102504. [PMID: 32949984 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2020.102504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In a recent clinical trial, the metabolite l-glutamine was shown to reduce painful crises in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients. To support this observation and identify other metabolites implicated in SCD clinical heterogeneity, we profiled 129 metabolites in the plasma of 705 SCD patients. We tested correlations between metabolite levels and six SCD-related complications (painful crises, cholecystectomy, retinopathy, leg ulcer, priapism, aseptic necrosis) or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and used Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess causality. We found a potential causal relationship between l-glutamine levels and painful crises (N = 1278, odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval] = 0.68 [0.52-0.89], P = 0.0048). In two smaller SCD cohorts (N = 299 and 406), the protective effect of l-glutamine was observed (OR = 0.82 [0.50-1.34]), although the MR result was not significant (P = 0.44). We identified 66 significant correlations between the levels of other metabolites and SCD-related complications or eGFR. We tested these correlations for causality using MR analyses and found no significant causal relationship. The baseline levels of quinolinic acid were associated with prospectively ascertained survival in SCD patients, and this effect was dependent on eGFR. Metabolomics provide a promising approach to prioritize small molecules that may serve as biomarkers or drug targets in SCD.
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21
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Sagi V, Argueta DA, Kiven S, Gupta K. Integrative approaches to treating pain in sickle cell disease: Pre-clinical and clinical evidence. Complement Ther Med 2020; 51:102394. [PMID: 32507420 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder characterized by hemolysis, end-organ damage, inflammation, and pain. Recurrent and unpredictable episodes of acute pain due to vaso-occlusive crises are a unique feature of SCD. Many patients also develop lifelong chronic pain. Opioids are the primary method of pain treatment in SCD; however, continued use is associated with several adverse effects. Integrative approaches to treating pain in SCD are increasingly being explored to prevent the side effects associated with opioids. In this review, we highlight the mechanisms of pain in SCD and describe mechanism-based integrative approaches for treating pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Sagi
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Donovan A Argueta
- Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine and Southern California Institute for Research and Education, VA Medical Center, Long Beach, CA, United States
| | - Stacy Kiven
- Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine and Southern California Institute for Research and Education, VA Medical Center, Long Beach, CA, United States
| | - Kalpna Gupta
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States; Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine and Southern California Institute for Research and Education, VA Medical Center, Long Beach, CA, United States.
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Shah F, Dwivedi M. Pathophysiology and recent therapeutic insights of sickle cell disease. Ann Hematol 2020; 99:925-935. [PMID: 32157419 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-020-03977-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive blood disorder which occurs due to point mutation in the β-globin chain of hemoglobin. Since the past decades, various therapies have been put forth, which are based on obstructing pathophysiological mechanisms of SCD including inhibition of Gardos channel and cation fluxes which in turn prevents sickle erythrocyte destruction and dehydration. The pharmacological approaches are based on the mechanism of reactivating γ-globin expression by utilizing fetal hemoglobin (HbF)-inducing drugs such as hydroxyurea. In SCD, gene therapy could be considered as a promising tool which involves modifying mutation at the gene-specific target by either promoting insertion or deletion of globins. Although there are various therapies emerged so far in the treatment of SCD, many of them have faced a major setback in most of developing countries in terms of cost, unavailability of expertise, and suitable donor. Therefore, in addition to pathophysiological aspects, this review will discuss new advancements and approaches made in the therapeutic domain of SCD including a viewpoint of modulating hemoglobin in SCD by the intervention of probiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firdosh Shah
- C. G. Bhakta Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Uka Tarsadia University, Maliba Campus, Gopal Vidyanagar, Bardoli-Mahuva Road, Dist. Surat, Tarsadi, Bardoli, Gujarat, 394350, India
| | - Mitesh Dwivedi
- C. G. Bhakta Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Uka Tarsadia University, Maliba Campus, Gopal Vidyanagar, Bardoli-Mahuva Road, Dist. Surat, Tarsadi, Bardoli, Gujarat, 394350, India.
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23
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Abstract
Oxidative stress is an important contributor to the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease. The pathways involved are complex and interlinked. L-glutamine is an amino acid with myriad roles in the body, including the synthesis of antioxidants, such as reduced glutathione and the cofactors NAD(H) and NADP(H), as well as nitric oxide—so it has therapeutic potential as an antioxidant. However, the relative impact of L-glutamine on the redox environment in red blood cells in sickle cell disease is not fully understood, and there are few therapeutic trials in sickle cell disease. Following the FDA approval of L-glutamine for sickle cell disease, more research is still needed to understand its clinical effects and role in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Sadaf
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Charles T Quinn
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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24
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Durante W. The Emerging Role of l-Glutamine in Cardiovascular Health and Disease. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11092092. [PMID: 31487814 PMCID: PMC6769761 DOI: 10.3390/nu11092092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that l-glutamine (Gln) plays a fundamental role in cardiovascular physiology and pathology. By serving as a substrate for the synthesis of DNA, ATP, proteins, and lipids, Gln drives critical processes in vascular cells, including proliferation, migration, apoptosis, senescence, and extracellular matrix deposition. Furthermore, Gln exerts potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the circulation by inducing the expression of heme oxygenase-1, heat shock proteins, and glutathione. Gln also promotes cardiovascular health by serving as an l-arginine precursor to optimize nitric oxide synthesis. Importantly, Gln mitigates numerous risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, glucose intolerance, obesity, and diabetes. Many studies demonstrate that Gln supplementation protects against cardiometabolic disease, ischemia-reperfusion injury, sickle cell disease, cardiac injury by inimical stimuli, and may be beneficial in patients with heart failure. However, excessive shunting of Gln to the Krebs cycle can precipitate aberrant angiogenic responses and the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension. In these instances, therapeutic targeting of the enzymes involved in glutaminolysis such as glutaminase-1, Gln synthetase, glutamate dehydrogenase, and amino acid transaminase has shown promise in preclinical models. Future translation studies employing Gln delivery approaches and/or glutaminolysis inhibitors will determine the success of targeting Gln in cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Durante
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA.
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25
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Al Balushi H, Hannemann A, Rees D, Brewin J, Gibson JS. The Effect of Antioxidants on the Properties of Red Blood Cells From Patients With Sickle Cell Anemia. Front Physiol 2019; 10:976. [PMID: 31456691 PMCID: PMC6700761 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative damage to red blood cells (RBCs) may contribute to pathogenesis of sickle cell anemia. Reducing the deleterious effects of oxidants by exposing RBCs to a number of antioxidants has been shown to have protective effects against lipid and protein peroxidation. We hypothesize that antioxidants may also have beneficial effects on the abnormal membrane permeability of sickle cells. Increased cation permeability of these cells encourages HbS polymerization by causing RBC dehydration and also leads to externalization of the prothrombotic aminophospholipid phosphatidylserine (PS). Three antioxidants with different mechanisms of action were investigated - dithiothreitol, N-acetylcysteine, and quercetin. All three were found to inhibit the main cation pathways responsible for dehydration - the deoxygenation-induced cation conductance (or Psickle), the Ca2+-activated K+ channel (or Gardos channel), and the K+-Cl- cotransporter. They also reduced Ca2+-induced PS exposure and hemolysis. Findings provide evidence for additional beneficial actions of antioxidants in maintenance of rheology and reducing vascular adhesion and further inform the rationale for their clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halima Al Balushi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anke Hannemann
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David Rees
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, King’s College Hospital, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John Brewin
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, King’s College Hospital, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John Stanley Gibson
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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26
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Cordy RJ, Patrapuvich R, Lili LN, Cabrera-Mora M, Chien JT, Tharp GK, Khadka M, Meyer EV, Lapp SA, Joyner CJ, Garcia A, Banton S, Tran V, Luvira V, Rungin S, Saeseu T, Rachaphaew N, Pakala SB, DeBarry JD, Kissinger JC, Ortlund EA, Bosinger SE, Barnwell JW, Jones DP, Uppal K, Li S, Sattabongkot J, Moreno A, Galinski MR. Distinct amino acid and lipid perturbations characterize acute versus chronic malaria. JCI Insight 2019; 4:125156. [PMID: 31045574 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.125156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic malaria is a major public health problem and significant challenge for disease eradication efforts. Despite its importance, the biological factors underpinning chronic malaria are not fully understood. Recent studies have shown that host metabolic state can influence malaria pathogenesis and transmission, but its role in chronicity is not known. Here, with the goal of identifying distinct modifications in the metabolite profiles of acute versus chronic malaria, metabolomics was performed on plasma from Plasmodium-infected humans and nonhuman primates with a range of parasitemias and clinical signs. In rhesus macaques infected with Plasmodium coatneyi, significant alterations in amines, carnitines, and lipids were detected during a high parasitemic acute phase and many of these reverted to baseline levels once a low parasitemic chronic phase was established. Plasmodium gene expression, studied in parallel in the macaques, revealed transcriptional changes in amine, fatty acid, lipid and energy metabolism genes, as well as variant antigen genes. Furthermore, a common set of amines, carnitines, and lipids distinguished acute from chronic malaria in plasma from human Plasmodium falciparum cases. In summary, distinct host-parasite metabolic environments have been uncovered that characterize acute versus chronic malaria, providing insights into the underlying host-parasite biology of malaria disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Joice Cordy
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Biology, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Loukia N Lili
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Institute for Next Generation Healthcare, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Monica Cabrera-Mora
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jung-Ting Chien
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gregory K Tharp
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Manoj Khadka
- Emory Integrated Lipidomics Core, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Esmeralda Vs Meyer
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Stacey A Lapp
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Chester J Joyner
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - AnaPatricia Garcia
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sophia Banton
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - ViLinh Tran
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Viravarn Luvira
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Siriwan Rungin
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Teerawat Saeseu
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | | | | | - Jessica C Kissinger
- Institute of Bioinformatics.,Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, and.,Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Eric A Ortlund
- Emory Integrated Lipidomics Core, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Steven E Bosinger
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - John W Barnwell
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Dean P Jones
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Karan Uppal
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Shuzhao Li
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Alberto Moreno
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mary R Galinski
- Emory Vaccine Center and Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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27
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Telen MJ, Malik P, Vercellotti GM. Therapeutic strategies for sickle cell disease: towards a multi-agent approach. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2019; 18:139-158. [PMID: 30514970 PMCID: PMC6645400 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-018-0003-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
For over 100 years, clinicians and scientists have been unravelling the consequences of the A to T substitution in the β-globin gene that produces haemoglobin S, which leads to the systemic manifestations of sickle cell disease (SCD), including vaso-occlusion, anaemia, haemolysis, organ injury and pain. However, despite growing understanding of the mechanisms of haemoglobin S polymerization and its effects on red blood cells, only two therapies for SCD - hydroxyurea and L-glutamine - are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Moreover, these treatment options do not fully address the manifestations of SCD, which arise from a complex network of interdependent pathophysiological processes. In this article, we review efforts to develop new drugs targeting these processes, including agents that reactivate fetal haemoglobin, anti-sickling agents, anti-adhesion agents, modulators of ischaemia-reperfusion and oxidative stress, agents that counteract free haemoglobin and haem, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-thrombotic agents and anti-platelet agents. We also discuss gene therapy, which holds promise of a cure, although its widespread application is currently limited by technical challenges and the expense of treatment. We thus propose that developing systems-oriented multi-agent strategies on the basis of SCD pathophysiology is needed to improve the quality of life and survival of people with SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn J Telen
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine and Duke Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Punam Malik
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology and the Division of Hematology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Gregory M Vercellotti
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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28
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Torres L, Conran N. Emerging pharmacotherapeutic approaches for the management of sickle cell disease. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2018; 20:173-186. [DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2018.1548610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lidiane Torres
- Hematology Center, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Nicola Conran
- Hematology Center, University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
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29
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Riley TR, Boss A, McClain D, Riley TT. Review of Medication Therapy for the Prevention of Sickle Cell Crisis. P & T : A PEER-REVIEWED JOURNAL FOR FORMULARY MANAGEMENT 2018; 43:417-437. [PMID: 30013299 PMCID: PMC6027858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews the clinical data concerning the uses of hydroxyurea, L-glutamine, and crizanlizumab in treating pain crises associated with sickle cell disease.
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30
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Loss of NRF2 function exacerbates the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease in a transgenic mouse model. Blood 2017; 131:558-562. [PMID: 29255069 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2017-10-810531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The basic leucine zipper transcription factor nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) plays a critical role in the cellular antioxidant response under oxidative stress conditions. In this study, we investigated the role of NRF2 in fetal hemoglobin expression and the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD) in a NRF2 knockout (SCD/NRF2-/-) transgenic mouse model. NRF2 loss impaired survival of SCD pups during gestation and in the first 2 months of life. Furthermore, fetal hemoglobin expression was inhibited during erythropoiesis in embryonic day 13.5 and embryonic day 18.5 fetal liver and adult spleen and bone marrow cells, respectively. Examination of peripheral red blood cells revealed an increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and sickling under hypoxic conditions. Loss of NRF2 function in SCD/NRF2-/- mice produced greater splenomegaly with red pulp expansion and obscured architecture. In addition, NRF2 knockout reduced the expression of its target antioxidant proteins, leading to increased levels of ROS, proinflammatory cytokines, and adhesion molecules in SCD mice. Genetic knockout of NRF2 demonstrates its role in developmentally regulated γ-globin gene expression and the ability to control oxidative stress and the phenotypic severity of SCD.
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31
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Khan SA, Damanhouri G, Ali A, Khan SA, Khan A, Bakillah A, Marouf S, Al Harbi G, Halawani SH, Makki A. Precipitating factors and targeted therapies in combating the perils of sickle cell disease--- A special nutritional consideration. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2016; 13:50. [PMID: 27508000 PMCID: PMC4977632 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-016-0109-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutritional research in sickle cell disease has been the focus in recent times owing to not only specific nutritional deficiencies, but also the improvements associated with less painful episodes. Though hydroxyurea remains the drug of choice, certain adverse health effects on long term supplementation makes room for researches of different compounds. Macro and micro nutrient deficiencies, along with vitamins, play an important role in not only meeting the calorific needs, but also reducing clinical complications and growth abnormalities. Symptoms of hyper protein metabolism, increased cell turnover, increased cardiac output, and appetite suppression due to enhanced cytokine production, might give us leads for better understanding of the mechanisms involved. Different nutritional approaches comprising of traditional herbal therapies, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins, minerals etc., reducing oxidative stress and blood aggregation, have been tried out to increase the health potential. Nutritional therapies may also serve complementary to the newer therapies using ozone, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, antifungal medications, erythropoietin etc. Herein we try to present a holistic picture of the different patho-physiological mechanisms, and nutritional strategies adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida A Khan
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghazi Damanhouri
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashraf Ali
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah A Khan
- National Brain Research Center, Manesar, Gurgaon, 122051 India
| | - Aziz Khan
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Bakillah
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, New York 11203 United State of America (USA)
| | - Samy Marouf
- Department of Hematology, King Fahd Hospital of the Armed forces, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ; Department of Medical Laboratory, King Fahd Hospital of the Armed forces, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghazi Al Harbi
- Department of Hematology, Soliman Fakeeh Hospital Jeddah, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed H Halawani
- Department of Hematology, Umm Al Qura University, Faculty of Medicine, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Makki
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah, 21589 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The search for effective therapeutic interventions for sickle cell disease (SCD) has been an ongoing endeavor for over 50 years. During this period, only hydroxyurea (HU), which received US FDA approval in February 1998, was identified as an effective therapeutic agent in preventing or ameliorating the frequency of vaso-occlusive crises, acute chest syndrome and the need for blood transfusion. Approximately 25% of patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA), however, do not respond to HU and some patients experiencing serious side effects of this chemotherapeutic agent. Nevertheless, the success of HU opened the sluice gates to identify other effective drug therapies. The objective of this review is to describe the emerging drug therapies for SCA. AREAS COVERED In this review, we describe the pathophysiology of SCD and provide an in-depth analysis of the current and new pharmacologic therapies in the field. Literature searches involved multiple databases including Medline In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus. EXPERT OPINION SCA is a heterogeneous disease that has caused tremendous global morbidity and early mortality. More effective, individualized and inexpensive therapies are needed. New therapies targeting multiple pathways in its complex pathophysiology are under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya C Singh
- Bayhealth Cancer Institute, Hematology/Oncology , Dover, DE , USA
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33
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van Zwieten R, Verhoeven AJ, Roos D. Inborn defects in the antioxidant systems of human red blood cells. Free Radic Biol Med 2014; 67:377-86. [PMID: 24316370 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2013.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Revised: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Red blood cells (RBCs) contain large amounts of iron and operate in highly oxygenated tissues. As a result, these cells encounter a continuous oxidative stress. Protective mechanisms against oxidation include prevention of formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), scavenging of various forms of ROS, and repair of oxidized cellular contents. In general, a partial defect in any of these systems can harm RBCs and promote senescence, but is without chronic hemolytic complaints. In this review we summarize the often rare inborn defects that interfere with the various protective mechanisms present in RBCs. NADPH is the main source of reduction equivalents in RBCs, used by most of the protective systems. When NADPH becomes limiting, red cells are prone to being damaged. In many of the severe RBC enzyme deficiencies, a lack of protective enzyme activity is frustrating erythropoiesis or is not restricted to RBCs. Common hereditary RBC disorders, such as thalassemia, sickle-cell trait, and unstable hemoglobins, give rise to increased oxidative stress caused by free heme and iron generated from hemoglobin. The beneficial effect of thalassemia minor, sickle-cell trait, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency on survival of malaria infection may well be due to the shared feature of enhanced oxidative stress. This may inhibit parasite growth, enhance uptake of infected RBCs by spleen macrophages, and/or cause less cytoadherence of the infected cells to capillary endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob van Zwieten
- Laboratory of Red Blood Cell Diagnostics, Department of Blood Cell Research, Sanquin Blood Supply Organization, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Arthur J Verhoeven
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk Roos
- Laboratory of Red Blood Cell Diagnostics, Department of Blood Cell Research, Sanquin Blood Supply Organization, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
P-selectin on endothelial cell surfaces is central to impaired microvascular blood flow in sickle cell disease (SCD). Restoration of blood flow is expected to provide therapeutic benefit for SCD patients, whatever the mechanism of action of the treatment. Long-term oral administration of a P-selectin-blocking agent potentially improves blood flow and averts acute painful vaso-occlusive crises in patients with SCD. This review focuses on the pathophysiology of the impairment of microvascular blood flow in SCD with an emphasis on the role of P-selectin and summarizes the status of development of antiselectin therapies as a means of improving microvascular flow.
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Abstract
Recurrent and unpredictable episodes of vaso-occlusion are the hallmark of sickle cell disease. Symptomatic management and prevention of these events using the fetal hemoglobin-reactivating agent hydroxyurea are currently the mainstay of treatment. Discoveries over the past 2 decades have highlighted the important contributions of various cellular and soluble participants in the vaso-occlusive cascade. The role of these elements and the opportunities for therapeutic intervention are summarized in this review.
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36
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Therapeutic approaches to limit hemolysis-driven endothelial dysfunction: scavenging free heme to preserve vasculature homeostasis. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2013; 2013:396527. [PMID: 23781294 PMCID: PMC3678425 DOI: 10.1155/2013/396527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hemolysis results in the release of hemoglobin and heme into the bloodstream and is associated with the development of several pathologic conditions of different etiology, including hemoglobinopathies, hemolytic anemias, bacterial infections, malaria, and trauma. In addition, hemolysis is associated with surgical procedures, hemodialysis, blood transfusion, and other conditions in which mechanical forces can lead to red blood cell rupture. Free plasma hemoglobin and heme are toxic for the vascular endothelium since heme iron promotes oxidative stress that causes endothelial activation responsible for vasoocclusive events and thrombus formation. Moreover, free hemoglobin scavenges nitric oxide, reducing its bioavailability, and heme favours ROS production, thus causing oxidative nitric oxide consumption. This results in the dysregulation of the endothelium vasodilator:vasoconstrictor balance, leading to severe vasoconstriction and hypertension. Thus, endothelial dysfunction and impairment of cardiovascular function represent a common feature of pathologic conditions associated with hemolysis. In this review, we discuss how hemoglobin/heme released following hemolysis may affect vascular function and summarise the therapeutic approaches available to limit hemolysis-driven endothelial dysfunction. Particular emphasis is put on recent data showing the beneficial effects obtained through the use of the plasma heme scavenger hemopexin in counteracting heme-mediated endothelial damage in mouse models of hemolytic diseases.
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37
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Garcerant D, Rubiano L, Blanco V, Martinez J, Baker NC, Craft N. Possible links between sickle cell crisis and pentavalent antimony. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2012; 86:1057-61. [PMID: 22665619 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2012.11-0683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
For over 60 years, pentavalent antimony (Sb(v)) has been the first-line treatment of leishmaniasis. Sickle cell anemia is a disease caused by a defect in red blood cells, which among other things can cause vasooclusive crisis. We report the case of a 6-year-old child with leishmaniasis who during treatment with meglumine antimoniate developed a sickle cell crisis (SCC). No previous reports describing the relationship between antimonial drugs and sickle cell disease were found. Reviews of both the pathophysiology of SCC and the mechanism of action of Sb(v) revealed that a common pathway (glutathione) may have resulted in the SCC. ChemoText, a novel database created to predict chemical-protein-disease interactions, was used to perform a more expansive and systematic review that was able to support the association between glutathione, Sb(v), and SCC. Although suggestive evidence to support the hypothesis, additional research at the bench would be needed to prove Sb(v) caused the SCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Garcerant
- CIDEIM: Centro Internacional De Entrenamiento E Investigaciones Médicas (International Center for Medical Research and Training), Cali, Colombia.
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Mok E, Hankard R. Glutamine supplementation in sick children: is it beneficial? J Nutr Metab 2011; 2011:617597. [PMID: 22175008 PMCID: PMC3228321 DOI: 10.1155/2011/617597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to provide a critical appraisal of the literature on Glutamine (Gln) supplementation in various conditions or illnesses that affect children, from neonates to adolescents. First, a general overview of the proposed mechanisms for the beneficial effects of Gln is provided, and subsequently clinical studies are discussed. Despite safety, studies are conflicting, partly due to different effects of enteral and parenteral Gln supplementation. Further insufficient evidence is available on the benefits of Gln supplementation in pediatric patients. This includes premature infants, infants with gastrointestinal disease, children with Crohn's disease, short bowel syndrome, malnutrition/diarrhea, cancer, severe burns/trauma, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and type 1 diabetes. Moreover, methodological issues have been noted in some studies. Further mechanistic data is needed along with large randomized controlled trials in select populations of sick children, who may eventually benefit from supplemental Gln.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Mok
- INSERM Centre D'Investigation Clinique 802, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Poitiers, 86021 Poitiers Cedex, France
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Morris CR, Gladwin MT, Kato GJ. Nitric oxide and arginine dysregulation: a novel pathway to pulmonary hypertension in hemolytic disorders. Curr Mol Med 2009; 8:620-32. [PMID: 18991648 DOI: 10.2174/156652408786241447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Secondary pulmonary hypertension (PH) is emerging as one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in patients with hemolytic anemias such as sickle cell disease (SCD) and thalassemia. Impaired nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability represents the central feature of endothelial dysfunction, and is a major factor in the pathophysiology of PH. Inactivation of NO correlates with hemolytic rate and is associated with the erythrocyte release of cell-free hemoglobin, which consumes NO directly, and the simultaneous release of the arginine-metabolizing enzyme arginase, which limits bioavailability of the NO synthase substrate arginine during the process of intravascular hemolysis. Rapid consumption of NO is accelerated by oxygen radicals that exists in both SCD and thalassemia. A dysregulation of arginine metabolism contributes to endothelial dysfunction and PH in SCD, and is strongly associated with prospective patient mortality. The central mechanism responsible for this metabolic disorder is enhanced arginine turnover, occurring secondary to enhanced plasma arginase activity. This is consistent with a growing appreciation of the role of excessive arginase activity in human diseases, including asthma and pulmonary arterial hypertension. New treatments aimed at improving arginine and NO bioavailability through arginase inhibition, suppression of hemolytic rate, oral arginine supplementation, or use of NO donors represent potential therapeutic strategies for this common pulmonary complication of hemolytic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia R Morris
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland, Oakland, CA 94609, USA.
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Morris CR. Mechanisms of vasculopathy in sickle cell disease and thalassemia. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2008; 2008:177-185. [PMID: 19074078 DOI: 10.1182/asheducation-2008.1.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Many mechanisms contribute to the complex pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD), with dysfunction of the vascular endothelium as a unifying theme. Specifically, hemolysis-associated low arginine and nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, amplified by NO synthase uncoupling, elevated arginase activity, superoxide production, oxidative stress, accumulation of arginine analogs such as asymmetric dimethylarginine, ischemia-reperfusion injury, inflammation, apolipoprotein A-1 depletion, and a hypercoagulable state are significant mechanisms contributing to endothelial dysfunction. Genetic polymorphisms also influence disease severity. Clearly the variable spectrum of disease is the consequence of multiple events and genetic susceptibility that go beyond the occurrence of a single amino acid substitution in the beta globin chain of hemoglobin. Recent studies begin to demonstrate overlap among these seemingly unrelated processes. Impaired NO bioavailability represents the central feature of endothelial dysfunction, and is a common denominator in the pathogenesis of vasculopathy in SCD. The consequences of decreased NO bioavailability include endothelial cell activation, upregulation of the potent vasoconstrictor endothelin-1, vasoconstriction, platelet activation, increased tissue factor, and activation of coagulation, all of which ultimately translate into the clinical manifestations of SCD. Evidence supporting vasculopathy subphenotypes in SCD, including pulmonary hypertension, priapism, cutaneous leg ulceration, and stroke, will be reviewed and relevance to other hemolytic disorders including the thalassemia syndromes will be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia R Morris
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland, Oakland, CA 94609, USA.
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Kato GJ. Novel small molecule therapeutics for sickle cell disease: nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, nitrite, and apolipoprotein A-I. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2008; 2008:186-92. [PMID: 19074079 PMCID: PMC2778246 DOI: 10.1182/asheducation-2008.1.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
A hemolysis-linked subphenotype of sickle cell disease (SCD), characterized by pulmonary hypertension, stroke, priapism and leg ulcers, is associated with decreased nitric oxide bioavailability and vasculopathy. Vasculopathy appears to have a multifactorial etiology, including mechanisms primarily that involve deficient nitric oxide (NO) signaling, but also involving altered function of NO synthase related to substrate availability and cooperating factors such as apolipoproteins. Improved understanding of the vascular pathophysiology of SCD has led to new vascular targets for translational research in SCD. This growing vascular therapeutics field in SCD is complementary to the ongoing efforts to reduce the morbidity of vaso-occlusive pain crisis. This presentation will review the current biology and translational clinical development of novel small molecules targeting sickle cell vasculopathy. Strategies targeting the hemeoxygenase-carbon monoxide pathway, the arginine-NO synthase-cGMP-phosphodiesterase 5 pathway, the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway, and the apolipoprotein A-I pathways will be reviewed. In this context, current clinical trials of inhaled NO, CO, nitrite, sildenafil and apoA-I mimetics will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J Kato
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center and the Pulmonary and Vascular Medicine Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1476, USA
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Morris CR, Suh JH, Hagar W, Larkin S, Bland DA, Steinberg MH, Vichinsky EP, Shigenaga M, Ames B, Kuypers FA, Klings ES. Erythrocyte glutamine depletion, altered redox environment, and pulmonary hypertension in sickle cell disease. Blood 2007; 111:402-10. [PMID: 17848621 PMCID: PMC2200820 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2007-04-081703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythrocyte glutathione depletion has been linked to hemolysis and oxidative stress. Glutamine plays an additional antioxidant role through preservation of intracellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) levels, required for glutathione recycling. Decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, which occurs in the setting of increased hemolysis and oxidative stress, contributes to the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in sickle cell disease (SCD). We hypothesized that altered glutathione and glutamine metabolism play a role in this process. Total glutathione (and its precursors) and glutamine were assayed in plasma and erythrocytes of 40 SCD patients and 9 healthy volunteers. Erythrocyte total glutathione and glutamine levels were significantly lower in SCD patients than in healthy volunteers. Glutamine depletion was independently associated with PH, defined as a tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRV) of at least 2.5 m/s. The ratio of erythrocyte glutamine:glutamate correlated inversely to TRV (r = -0.62, P < .001), plasma arginase concentration (r = -0.45, P = .002), and plasma-free hemoglobin level (r = -0.41, P = .01), linking erythrocyte glutamine depletion to dysregulation of the arginine-NO pathway and increased hemolytic rate. Decreased erythrocyte glutathione and glutamine levels contribute to alterations in the erythrocyte redox environment, which may compromise erythrocyte integrity, contribute to hemolysis, and play a role in the pathogenesis of PH of SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia R Morris
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital and Research Center Oakland, 747 52nd St, Oakland, CA 94609, USA.
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