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Welz L, Harris DM, Kim NM, Alsaadi AI, Wu Q, Oumari M, Taubenheim J, Volk V, Credido G, Koncina E, Mukherjee PK, Tran F, Sievers LK, Pavlidis P, Powell N, Rieder F, Letellier E, Waschina S, Kaleta C, Feuerhake F, Verstockt B, McReynolds MR, Rosenstiel P, Schreiber S, Aden K. A metabolic constraint in the kynurenine pathway drives mucosal inflammation in IBD. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.08.08.24311598. [PMID: 39211892 PMCID: PMC11361206 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.08.24311598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with perturbed metabolism of the essential amino acid tryptophan (Trp). Whether increased degradation of Trp directly fuels mucosal inflammation or acts as a compensatory attempt to restore cellular energy levels via de-novo nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD + ) synthesis is not understood. Employing a systems medicine approach on longitudinal IBD therapy intervention cohorts and targeted screening in preclinical IBD models, we discover that steady increases in Trp levels upon therapy success coincide with a rewiring of metabolic processes within the kynurenine pathway (KP). In detail, we identify that Trp catabolism in IBD is metabolically constrained at the level of quinolinate phosphorybosyltransferase (QPRT), leading to accumulation of quinolinic acid (Quin) and a decrease of NAD + . We further demonstrate that Trp degradation along the KP occurs locally in the inflamed intestinal mucosa and critically depends on janus kinase / signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signalling. Subsequently, knockdown of QPRT in-vitro induces NAD + depletion and a pro-inflammatory state, which can largely be rescued by bypassing QPRT via other NAD + precursors. We hence propose a model of impaired de-novo NAD + synthesis from Trp in IBD. These findings point towards the replenishment of NAD + precursors as a novel therapeutic pathway in IBD.
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Malepathirana T, Senanayake D, Gautam V, Engel M, Balez R, Lovelace MD, Sundaram G, Heng B, Chow S, Marquis C, Guillemin GJ, Brew B, Jagadish C, Ooi L, Halgamuge S. Visualization of incrementally learned projection trajectories for longitudinal data. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13558. [PMID: 38866809 PMCID: PMC11169470 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63511-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Longitudinal studies that continuously generate data enable the capture of temporal variations in experimentally observed parameters, facilitating the interpretation of results in a time-aware manner. We propose IL-VIS (incrementally learned visualizer), a new machine learning pipeline that incrementally learns and visualizes a progression trajectory representing the longitudinal changes in longitudinal studies. At each sampling time point in an experiment, IL-VIS generates a snapshot of the longitudinal process on the data observed thus far, a new feature that is beyond the reach of classical static models. We first verify the utility and correctness of IL-VIS using simulated data, for which the true progression trajectories are known. We find that it accurately captures and visualizes the trends and (dis)similarities between high-dimensional progression trajectories. We then apply IL-VIS to longitudinal multi-electrode array data from brain cortical organoids when exposed to different levels of quinolinic acid, a metabolite contributing to many neuroinflammatory diseases including Alzheimer's disease, and its blocking antibody. We uncover valuable insights into the organoids' electrophysiological maturation and response patterns over time under these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamasha Malepathirana
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Damith Senanayake
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Vini Gautam
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012, India
| | - Martin Engel
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, 2522, NSW, Australia
| | - Rachelle Balez
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, 2522, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael D Lovelace
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St. Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, 405 Liverpool St., Darlinghurst, Sydney, 2010, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, St. Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, 2010, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Benjamin Heng
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, 2109, NSW, Australia
| | - Sharron Chow
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, 2109, NSW, Australia
| | - Christopher Marquis
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, 2052, NSW, Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St. Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, 405 Liverpool St., Darlinghurst, Sydney, 2010, NSW, Australia
- IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Bruce Brew
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St. Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, 405 Liverpool St., Darlinghurst, Sydney, 2010, NSW, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, St. Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, 2010, NSW, Australia
- Departments of Neurology and Immunology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, 2010, NSW, Australia
| | - Chennupati Jagadish
- Research School of Physics, Australian National University, Canberra, 2601, ACT, Australia
| | - Lezanne Ooi
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, 2522, NSW, Australia.
| | - Saman Halgamuge
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3010, VIC, Australia.
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Amiri H, Javid H, Hashemi SF, Reihani A, Esparham A, Hashemy SI. The protective effects of hesperidin as an antioxidant against quinolinic acid-induced toxicity on oligodendroglia cells: An in vitro study. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 82:105401. [PMID: 38154346 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.105401] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex central nervous system disorder, marked by neurodegenerative and inflammatory processes, where overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a key factor in demyelination and neurodegeneration. The current study aims to investigate the effect of hesperidin and Quinolinic acid (QA) on ROS and antioxidant levels, and cell viability of OLN-93 cells. METHODS OLN-93 cell lines were treated with hesperidin and QA. OLN-93 cells were cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium under controlled conditions. Cell viability assays were performed using resazurin to assess the toxicity of hesperidin and QA. Additionally, ROS levels were measured using DCFDA, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined to evaluate oxidative stress. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and cell viability were assessed by trypan blue staining after exposure to hesperidin and QA. RESULTS The results of the current study showed that co-administration of 8 mM QA with 50, 100, and 200 μM hesperidin significantly reduced both ROS and MDA levels, demonstrating a substantial attenuation in comparison to the elevated ROS and MDA levels induced by 8 mM QA (p-value < 0.01). Furthermore, 8 mM QA + 50, 100, and 200 μM hesperidin significantly increased SOD levels compared with QA alone (p-value < 0.01). In addition, treatment of OLN cells with 8 mM QA + 50, 100, and 200 μM hesperidin led to higher cell viability compared to QA alone (p value <0.0001). CONCLUSION The current study demonstrated the antioxidant effect of hesperidin on OLN-93 cells suggesting new insights into the clinical application of hesperidin as an effective treatment for patients with MS. Future in vivo studies, focusing on cellular mechanisms are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Amiri
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Javid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Surgical Oncology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Fatemeh Hashemi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirali Reihani
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Esparham
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Isaac Hashemy
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Surgical Oncology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Basson C, Serem JC, Hlophe YN, Bipath P. An in vitro investigation of l-kynurenine, quinolinic acid, and kynurenic acid on B16 F10 melanoma cell cytotoxicity and morphology. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:912-922. [PMID: 37661337 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3843] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
The metastatic behavior of melanoma has accentuated the need for specific therapy targets. Compounds, namely l-kynurenine ( l-kyn), quinolinic acid (Quin), and kynurenic acid (KA) previously displayed antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects in vitro against cancer cells. Despite the growing interest in these compounds there are limited studies examining the in vitro effects on melanoma. In B16 F10 melanoma cells, RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, and HaCat keratinocyte cells, postexposure to the compounds, crystal violet staining was used to determine the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50 ), whereas polarization-optical transmitted light differential interference contrast and light microscopy after hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to assess morphological changes. l-kyn, Quin, and KA-induced cytotoxicity in all cell lines, with l-kyn being the most cytotoxic compound. l-kyn and KA at IC50 -induced morphological changes in B16 F10, RAW 264.7, and HaCat cell lines, whereas Quin had effects on B16 F10 and RAW 264.7 cells but did not affect HaCat cells. l-kyn, Quin, and KA each display different levels of cytotoxicity, which were cell line specific. l-kyn was shown to be the most potent compound against all cell lines and may offer future treatment strategies when combined with other viable treatments against melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlise Basson
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - June Cheptoo Serem
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yvette Nkondo Hlophe
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Priyesh Bipath
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Stone TW, Clanchy FIL, Huang YS, Chiang NY, Darlington LG, Williams RO. An integrated cytokine and kynurenine network as the basis of neuroimmune communication. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1002004. [PMID: 36507331 PMCID: PMC9729788 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1002004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Two of the molecular families closely associated with mediating communication between the brain and immune system are cytokines and the kynurenine metabolites of tryptophan. Both groups regulate neuron and glial activity in the central nervous system (CNS) and leukocyte function in the immune system, although neither group alone completely explains neuroimmune function, disease occurrence or severity. This essay suggests that the two families perform complementary functions generating an integrated network. The kynurenine pathway determines overall neuronal excitability and plasticity by modulating glutamate receptors and GPR35 activity across the CNS, and regulates general features of immune cell status, surveillance and tolerance which often involves the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR). Equally, cytokines and chemokines define and regulate specific populations of neurons, glia or immune system leukocytes, generating more specific responses within restricted CNS regions or leukocyte populations. In addition, as there is a much larger variety of these compounds, their homing properties enable the superimposition of dynamic variations of cell activity upon local, spatially limited, cell populations. This would in principle allow the targeting of potential treatments to restricted regions of the CNS. The proposed synergistic interface of 'tonic' kynurenine pathway affecting baseline activity and the superimposed 'phasic' cytokine system would constitute an integrated network explaining some features of neuroimmune communication. The concept would broaden the scope for the development of new treatments for disorders involving both the CNS and immune systems, with safer and more effective agents targeted to specific CNS regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W. Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Trevor W. Stone,
| | - Felix I. L. Clanchy
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yi-Shu Huang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nien-Yi Chiang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - L. Gail Darlington
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ashtead Hospital, Ashtead, United Kingdom
| | - Richard O. Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Fathi M, Vakili K, Yaghoobpoor S, Tavasol A, Jazi K, Mohamadkhani A, Klegeris A, McElhinney A, Mafi Z, Hajiesmaeili M, Sayehmiri F. Dynamic changes in kynurenine pathway metabolites in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1013784. [PMID: 36426364 PMCID: PMC9680557 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1013784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by axonal damage, demyelination, and perivascular inflammatory lesions in the white matter of the central nervous system (CNS). Kynurenine pathway (KP), which is the major route of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism, generates a variety of neurotoxic as well as neuroprotective compounds, affecting MS pathology and the severity of impairments. Alterations in KP have been described not only in MS, but also in various psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. The purpose of this systematic review is to investigate the previously reported dysregulation of KP and differences in its metabolites and enzymes in patients with MS compared to healthy control subjects. Method Electronic databases of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science were searched to identify studies measuring concentrations of KP metabolites and enzymes in MS patients and control subjects. The following metabolites and enzymes implicated in the KP were investigated: TRP, kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA), quinolinic acid (QUIN), picolinic acid (PIC), hydroxyindoleacetic acid (HIAA), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT), and their related ratios. Result Ten studies were included in our systematic review. Our review demonstrates that IDO expression is reduced in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of MS patients compared to healthy controls. Also, increased levels of QUIN and QUIN/KYNA in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of MS patients is observed. Differences in levels of other metabolites and enzymes of KP are also reported in some of the reviewed studies, however there are discrepancies among the included reports. Conclusion The results of this investigation suggest a possible connection between alterations in the levels of KP metabolite or enzymes and MS. QUIN levels in CSF were higher in MS patients than in healthy controls, suggesting that QUIN may be involved in the pathogenesis of MS. The data indicate that differences in the serum/blood or CSF levels of certain KP metabolites and enzymes could potentially be used to differentiate between MS patients and control subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mobina Fathi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Vakili
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirin Yaghoobpoor
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arian Tavasol
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Jazi
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Qom, Qom, Iran
| | - Ashraf Mohamadkhani
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Andis Klegeris
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Alyssa McElhinney
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Zahedeh Mafi
- Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Hajiesmaeili
- Critical Care Quality Improvement Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sayehmiri
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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A Fluorescence-Based Competitive Antibody Binding Assay for Kynurenine, a Potential Biomarker of Kidney Transplant Failure. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12061380. [PMID: 35741190 PMCID: PMC9221851 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12061380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Kynurenine is a tryptophan metabolite linked to several inflammatory processes including transplant failure, a significant challenge in transplant medicine. The detection of small molecules such as kynurenine, however, is often complex and time consuming. Herein, we report the successful synthesis of a fluorescently labelled kynurenine derivative, showing proper fluorescence and anti-kynurenine antibody binding behavior in a magnetic bead immunoassay (MIA). The fluorescent kynurenine–rhodamine B conjugate shows a KD-value of 5.9 µM as well as IC50 values of 4.0 µM in PBS and 10.2 µM in saliva. We thus introduce a rapid test for kynurenine as a potential biomarker for kidney transplant failure.
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Liang Y, Xie S, He Y, Xu M, Qiao X, Zhu Y, Wu W. Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites as Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:9484217. [PMID: 35096208 PMCID: PMC8791723 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9484217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that deteriorates cognitive function. Patients with AD generally exhibit neuroinflammation, elevated beta-amyloid (Aβ), tau phosphorylation (p-tau), and other pathological changes in the brain. The kynurenine pathway (KP) and several of its metabolites, especially quinolinic acid (QA), are considered to be involved in the neuropathogenesis of AD. The important metabolites and key enzymes show significant importance in neuroinflammation and AD. Meanwhile, the discovery of changed levels of KP metabolites in patients with AD suggests that KP metabolites may have a prominent role in the pathogenesis of AD. Further, some KP metabolites exhibit other effects on the brain, such as oxidative stress regulation and neurotoxicity. Both analogs of the neuroprotective and antineuroinflammation metabolites and small molecule enzyme inhibitors preventing the formation of neurotoxic and neuroinflammation compounds may have potential therapeutic significance. This review focused on the KP metabolites through the relationship of neuroinflammation in AD, significant KP metabolites, and associated molecular mechanisms as well as the utility of these metabolites as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for AD. The objective is to provide references to find biomarkers and therapeutic targets for patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Liang
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Shan Xie
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Yanyun He
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Manru Xu
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Xi Qiao
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
| | - Wenbin Wu
- Department of Geriatrics, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China
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Ramírez Ortega D, Ugalde Muñiz PE, Blanco Ayala T, Vázquez Cervantes GI, Lugo Huitrón R, Pineda B, González Esquivel DF, Pérez de la Cruz G, Pedraza Chaverrí J, Sánchez Chapul L, Gómez-Manzo S, Pérez de la Cruz V. On the Antioxidant Properties of L-Kynurenine: An Efficient ROS Scavenger and Enhancer of Rat Brain Antioxidant Defense. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 11:antiox11010031. [PMID: 35052535 PMCID: PMC8773258 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
L-kynurenine (L-KYN) is an endogenous metabolite, that has been used as a neuroprotective strategy in experimental models. The protective effects of L-KYN have been attributed mainly to kynurenic acid (KYNA). However, considering that L-KYN is prone to oxidation, this redox property may play a substantial role in its protective effects. The aim of this work was to characterize the potential impact of the redox properties of L-KYN, in both synthetic and biological systems. First, we determined whether L-KYN scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevents DNA and protein oxidative degradation in synthetic systems. The effect of L-KYN and KYNA (0.1–100 µM) on redox markers (ROS production, lipoperoxidation and cellular function) was compared in rat brain homogenates when exposed to FeSO4 (10 µM). Then, the effect of L-KYN administration (75 mg/kg/day for 5 days) on the GSH content and the enzymatic activity of glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was determined in rat brain tissue. Finally, brain homogenates from rats pretreated with L-KYN were exposed to pro-oxidants and oxidative markers were evaluated. The results show that L-KYN is an efficient scavenger of ●OH and ONOO−, but not O2●– or H2O2 and that it prevents DNA and protein oxidative degradation in synthetic systems. L-KYN diminishes the oxidative effect induced by FeSO4 on brain homogenates at lower concentrations (1 µM) when compared to KYNA (100 µM). Furthermore, the sub-chronic administration of L-KYN increased the GSH content and the activity of both GR and GPx, and also prevented the oxidative damage induced by the ex vivo exposure to pro-oxidants. Altogether, these findings strongly suggest that L-KYN can be considered as a potential endogenous antioxidant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ramírez Ortega
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (G.I.V.C.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Perla Eugenia Ugalde Muñiz
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Tonali Blanco Ayala
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (G.I.V.C.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Gustavo Ignacio Vázquez Cervantes
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (G.I.V.C.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Rafael Lugo Huitrón
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología Conductual, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Benjamín Pineda
- Neuroimmunology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico;
| | - Dinora Fabiola González Esquivel
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (G.I.V.C.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Gonzalo Pérez de la Cruz
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - José Pedraza Chaverrí
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Chemistry, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Laura Sánchez Chapul
- Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, National Institute of Rehabilitation “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Saúl Gómez-Manzo
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Genética, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City 04530, Mexico;
| | - Verónica Pérez de la Cruz
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (G.I.V.C.); (D.F.G.E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-55-56063822 (ext. 2006)
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10
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Myint K, Jacobs K, Myint AM, Lam SK, Lim YAL, Boey CCM, Hoe SZ, Guillemin GJ. Psychological Stresses in Children Trigger Cytokine- and Kynurenine Metabolite-Mediated Abdominal Pain and Proinflammatory Changes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:702301. [PMID: 34539633 PMCID: PMC8442661 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.702301] [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: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) is a common medically unexplained symptom among children worldwide. However, the biological mechanisms behind the development of functional and behavioral symptoms and changes in blood markers have not been well explored. This study aimed to assess changes in the concentrations of inflammatory markers, including cytokines and tryptophan catabolites, in the serum of children with RAP compared to those with subclinical infections. Children with RAP but without organic diseases were included, and those with asymptomatic intestinal parasitic infections were used as a subclinical infection cohort. Blood samples were collected and used to measure the cytokine profile using Multiplex Immunoassay and tryptophan catabolites using high performance liquid chromatography. Children with RAP showed significantly higher concentrations of serum tumor necrotic factor-α, p<0.05, but lower concentrations of IL-10, p<0.001, IL-6, p<0.001 and brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF) p<0.01. In addition, a significant increase in the metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3-HAA) p<0.01, a significant decrease in the concentrations of anthranilic acid (AA) p<0.001, together with an increased ratio of serum 3-HAA to AA (3-HAA/AA) p<0.001, was found in this cohort. These findings indicate the significant activation of the immune system and presence of inflammation in children with RAP than those with subclinical parasitic infections. Moreover, children with RAP tested with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), displayed high psychological problems though these SDQ scores were not statistically associated with measured cytokines and kynurenine metabolites. We however could hypothesize that the pro-inflammatory state together with concomitant low concentrations of BDNF in those children with RAP could play a role in psychological stress and experiencing medically unexplained symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyaimon Myint
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kelly Jacobs
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aye-Mu Myint
- Psychoneuroimmunology Research Group, European Collaborative Project, Munich, Germany
| | - Sau Kuen Lam
- Department of Pre-Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Sungai Long, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai-Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - See Ziau Hoe
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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11
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Limana da Silveira T, Lopes Machado M, Bicca Obetine Baptista F, Farina Gonçalves D, Duarte Hartmann D, Marafiga Cordeiro L, Franzen da Silva A, Lenz Dalla Corte C, Aschner M, Antunes Soares FA. Caenorhabditis elegans as a model for studies on quinolinic acid-induced NMDAR-dependent glutamatergic disorders. Brain Res Bull 2021; 175:90-98. [PMID: 34271120 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.07.007] [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: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Quinolinic acid (QUIN) is an agonist of the neurotransmitter glutamate (Glu) capable of binding to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) increasing glutamatergic signaling. QUIN is known for being an endogenous neurotoxin, able to induce neurodegeneration. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the mechanism by which QUIN induces behavioral and metabolic toxicity has not been fully elucidated. The effects of QUIN on behavioral and metabolic parameters in nmr-1 and nmr-2 NMDA receptors in transgenic and wild-type (WT) worms were performed to decipher the pathway by which QUIN exerts its toxicity. QUIN increased locomotion parameters such as wavelength and movement amplitude medium, as well as speed and displacement, without modifying the number of body bends in an NMDAR-dependent-manner. QUIN increased the response time to the chemical stimulant 1-octanol, which is modulated by glutamatergic neurotransmission in the ASH neuron. Brood size increased after exposure to QUIN, dependent upon nmr-2/NMDA-receptor, with no change in lifespan. Oxygen consumption, mitochondrial membrane potential, and the flow of coupled and unbound electrons to ATP production were reduced by QUIN in wild-type animals, but did not alter citrate synthase activity, altering the functionality but the mitochondrial viability. Notably, QUIN modified fine locomotor and chemosensory behavioral parameters, as well as metabolic parameters, analogous to previously reported effects in mammals. Our results indicate that QUIN can be used as a neurotoxin to elicit glutamatergic dysfunction in C. elegans in a way analogous to other animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tássia Limana da Silveira
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Marina Lopes Machado
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Fabiane Bicca Obetine Baptista
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Débora Farina Gonçalves
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Diane Duarte Hartmann
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul
| | - Larissa Marafiga Cordeiro
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Aline Franzen da Silva
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Lenz Dalla Corte
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University, Forchheimer 209, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Felix Alexandre Antunes Soares
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Camobi, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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12
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Pharmacokinetic Properties of the Novel Synthetic Cannabinoid 5F-APINAC and Its Influence on Metabolites Associated with Neurotransmission in Rabbit Plasma. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14070668. [PMID: 34358094 PMCID: PMC8308683 DOI: 10.3390/ph14070668] [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: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The strong psychoactive effects of synthetic cannabinoids raise the need for the deeper studying of their neurometabolic effects. The pharmacokinetic properties of 5F-APINAC and its influence on metabolomics profiles associated with neurotransmission were investigated in rabbit plasma. Twelve rabbits divided into three groups received 1-mL 5F-APINAC at 0.1, 1 and 2 mg/kg. The intervention groups were compared with the controls. Sampling was performed at nine time points (0–24 h). Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used. The pharmacokinetics were dose-dependent (higher curve at a higher dose) with a rapid biotransformation, followed by gradual elimination within 24 h. The tryptophan concentrations abruptly decreased (p < 0.05) in all tested groups, returning to the basal levels after 6 h. 5-hydroxylindole acetic acid increased (p < 0.05) in the controls, but this trend was absent in the treated groups. The aspartic acid concentrations were elevated (p < 0.001) in the treated groups. L-kynurenine was elevated (p < 0.01) in the intervention groups receiving 1 mg/kg to 2 mg/kg. Dose-dependent elevations (p < 0.01) were found for kynurenic acid, xanthurenic acid and quinolinic acid (p < 0.01), whereas the anthranilic acid trends were decreased (p < 0.01). The indole-3-propionic acid and indole-3-carboxaldehyde trends were elevated (p < 0.05), whereas the indole-3-lactic acid trajectories were decreased (p < 0.01) in the intervention groups. 5F-APINAC administration had a rapid biotransformation and gradual elimination. The metabolites related to the kynurenine and serotonergic system/serotonin pathways, aspartic acid innervation system and microbial tryptophan catabolism were altered.
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13
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Behl T, Kaur I, Sehgal A, Singh S, Bhatia S, Al-Harrasi A, Zengin G, Bumbu AG, Andronie-Cioara FL, Nechifor AC, Gitea D, Bungau AF, Toma MM, Bungau SG. The Footprint of Kynurenine Pathway in Neurodegeneration: Janus-Faced Role in Parkinson's Disorder and Therapeutic Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6737. [PMID: 34201647 PMCID: PMC8268239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Progressive degeneration of neurons and aggravation of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta results in the loss of dopamine in the brain of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Numerous therapies, exhibiting transient efficacy have been developed; however, they are mostly accompanied by side effects and limited reliability, therefore instigating the need to develop novel optimistic treatment targets. Significant therapeutic targets have been identified, namely: chaperones, protein Abelson, glucocerebrosidase-1, calcium, neuromelanin, ubiquitin-proteasome system, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the kynurenine pathway (KP). The role of KP and its metabolites and enzymes in PD, namely quinolinic acid (QUIN), kynurenic acid (KYNA), 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), 3-hydroxyanthranillic acid (3-HAA), kunurenine-3-monooxygenase (KMO), etc. has been reported. The neurotoxic QUIN, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor agonist, and neuroprotective KYNA-which antagonizes QUIN actions-primarily justify the Janus-faced role of KP in PD. Moreover, KP has been reported to play a biomarker role in PD detection. Therefore, the authors detail the neurotoxic, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory neuroactive components, alongside the upstream and downstream metabolic pathways of KP, forming a basis for a therapeutic paradigm of the disease while recognizing KP as a potential biomarker in PD, thus facilitating the development of a suitable target in PD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan Behl
- Department of Pharmacology, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India; (I.K.); (A.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Ishnoor Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India; (I.K.); (A.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Department of Pharmacology, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India; (I.K.); (A.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India; (I.K.); (A.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Saurabh Bhatia
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Gurugram, Haryana 122412, India;
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa, P.O. Box 33, PC 616 Birkat Al Mouz, Nizwa 611, Oman;
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural and Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa, P.O. Box 33, PC 616 Birkat Al Mouz, Nizwa 611, Oman;
| | - Gokhan Zengin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Selcuk University Campus, Konya 42130, Turkey;
| | - Adrian Gheorghe Bumbu
- Department of Surgical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Felicia Liana Andronie-Cioara
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Aurelia Cristina Nechifor
- Analytical Chemistry and Environmental Engineering Department, Polytechnic University of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Daniela Gitea
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania; (D.G.); (M.M.T.)
| | | | - Mirela Marioara Toma
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania; (D.G.); (M.M.T.)
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Simona Gabriela Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania; (D.G.); (M.M.T.)
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
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14
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Sandi D, Fricska-Nagy Z, Bencsik K, Vécsei L. Neurodegeneration in Multiple Sclerosis: Symptoms of Silent Progression, Biomarkers and Neuroprotective Therapy-Kynurenines Are Important Players. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26113423. [PMID: 34198750 PMCID: PMC8201043 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26113423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is one of the driving forces behind the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Progression without activity, pathopsychological disturbances (cognitive impairment, depression, fatigue) and even optic neuropathy seems to be mainly routed in this mechanism. In this article, we aim to give a comprehensive review of the clinical aspects and symptomology, radiological and molecular markers and potential therapeutic targets of neurodegeneration in connection with MS. As the kynurenine pathway (KP) was evidenced to play an important role in the pathogenesis of other neurodegenerative conditions (even implied to have a causative role in some of these diseases) and more and more recent evidence suggest the same central role in the neurodegenerative processes of MS as well, we pay special attention to the KP. Metabolites of the pathway are researched as biomarkers of the disease and new, promising data arising from clinical evaluations show the possible therapeutic capability of KP metabolites as neuroprotective drugs in MS. Our conclusion is that the kynurenine pathway is a highly important route of research both for diagnostic and for therapeutic values and is expected to yield concrete results for everyday medicine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dániel Sandi
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
| | - Zsanett Fricska-Nagy
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
| | - Krisztina Bencsik
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
| | - László Vécsei
- Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Centre, Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.S.); (Z.F.-N.); (K.B.)
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-62-545-384; Fax: +36-62-545-597
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15
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Effects of stress associated with academic examination on the kynurenine pathway profile in healthy students. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252668. [PMID: 34081742 PMCID: PMC8174692 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of stress on the neuroendocrine, central nervous and immune systems are extremely complex. The kynurenine pathway (KP) of the tryptophan metabolism is recognised as a cross-link between the neuroendocrine- and immune systems. However, the effects of acute stress from everyday life on KP activation have not yet been studied. This study aims to investigate changes in the levels of the KP neuroactive metabolites and cytokines in response to stress triggered by academic examinations. Ninety-two healthy first year medical students benevolently participated in the study. Parameters were measured pre- examination, which is considered to be a high-stress period, and post-examination, as a low-stress period. Stress induced by academic examinations significantly increases the perceived stress scores (p<0.001), serum cortisol levels (p<0.001) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels (p<0.01). It decreased IL-10 levels (p<0.05) but had no effect on IL-6 and TNF-alpha levels. Only the KP neuroactive metabolite, 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) significantly increased (p<0.01) in the post-examination period. In addition, the stress scores positively correlated with the levels of cortisol (r2 = 0.297, p<0.01) at post examination. Acute stress triggered by academic examinations increases cortisol and BDNF production and suppresses the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10, but did not increase significantly the levels of other pro-inflammatory cytokines, tryptophan, kynurenine and downstream KP metabolites. The concomitant increased levels of BDNF under the duress of acute examination stress appear to limit the levels pro-inflammatory markers, which may attenuate the action of cortisol and the neuroinflammatory branch of the KP.
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16
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The Microbiota and the Gut-Brain Axis in Controlling Food Intake and Energy Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115830. [PMID: 34072450 PMCID: PMC8198395 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity currently represents a major societal and health challenge worldwide. Its prevalence has reached epidemic proportions and trends continue to rise, reflecting the need for more effective preventive measures. Hypothalamic circuits that control energy homeostasis in response to food intake are interesting targets for body-weight management, for example, through interventions that reinforce the gut-to-brain nutrient signalling, whose malfunction contributes to obesity. Gut microbiota-diet interactions might interfere in nutrient sensing and signalling from the gut to the brain, where the information is processed to control energy homeostasis. This gut microbiota-brain crosstalk is mediated by metabolites, mainly short chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids or amino acids-derived metabolites and subcellular bacterial components. These activate gut-endocrine and/or neural-mediated pathways or pass to systemic circulation and then reach the brain. Feeding time and dietary composition are the main drivers of the gut microbiota structure and function. Therefore, aberrant feeding patterns or unhealthy diets might alter gut microbiota-diet interactions and modify nutrient availability and/or microbial ligands transmitting information from the gut to the brain in response to food intake, thus impairing energy homeostasis. Herein, we update the scientific evidence supporting that gut microbiota is a source of novel dietary and non-dietary biological products that may beneficially regulate gut-to-brain communication and, thus, improve metabolic health. Additionally, we evaluate how the feeding time and dietary composition modulate the gut microbiota and, thereby, the intraluminal availability of these biological products with potential effects on energy homeostasis. The review also identifies knowledge gaps and the advances required to clinically apply microbiome-based strategies to improve the gut-brain axis function and, thus, combat obesity.
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17
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Pukoli D, Polyák H, Rajda C, Vécsei L. Kynurenines and Neurofilament Light Chain in Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:658202. [PMID: 34113231 PMCID: PMC8185147 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.658202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune, demyelinating, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system. In recent years, it has been proven that the kynurenine system plays a significant role in the development of several nervous system disorders, including multiple sclerosis. Kynurenine pathway metabolites have both neurotoxic and neuroprotective effects. Moreover, the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway play an important role in immunomodulation processes, among others, as well as interacting with neuronal energy balance and various redox reactions. Dysregulation of many of the enzymatic steps in kynurenine pathway and upregulated levels of these metabolites locally in the central nervous system, contribute to the progression of multiple sclerosis pathology. This process can initiate a pathogenic cascade, including microglia activation, glutamate excitotoxicity, chronic oxidative stress or accumulated mitochondrial damage in the axons, that finally disrupt the homeostasis of neurons, leads to destabilization of neuronal cell cytoskeleton, contributes to neuro-axonal damage and neurodegeneration. Neurofilaments are good biomarkers of the neuro-axonal damage and their level reliably indicates the severity of multiple sclerosis and the treatment response. There is increasing evidence that connections exist between the molecules generated in the kynurenine metabolic pathway and the change in neurofilament concentrations. Thus the alterations in the kynurenine pathway may be an important biomarker of the course of multiple sclerosis. In our present review, we report the possible relationship and connection between neurofilaments and the kynurenine system in multiple sclerosis based on the available evidences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dániel Pukoli
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.,Department of Neurology, Vaszary Kolos Hospital, Esztergom, Hungary
| | - Helga Polyák
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Cecilia Rajda
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.,MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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18
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Lawler NG, Gray N, Kimhofer T, Boughton B, Gay M, Yang R, Morillon AC, Chin ST, Ryan M, Begum S, Bong SH, Coudert JD, Edgar D, Raby E, Pettersson S, Richards T, Holmes E, Whiley L, Nicholson JK. Systemic Perturbations in Amine and Kynurenine Metabolism Associated with Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Inflammatory Cytokine Responses. J Proteome Res 2021; 20:2796-2811. [PMID: 33724837 PMCID: PMC7986977 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.1c00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We performed quantitative metabolic phenotyping of blood plasma in parallel with cytokine/chemokine analysis from participants who were either SARS-CoV-2 (+) (n = 10) or SARS-CoV-2 (-) (n = 49). SARS-CoV-2 positivity was associated with a unique metabolic phenotype and demonstrated a complex systemic response to infection, including severe perturbations in amino acid and kynurenine metabolic pathways. Nine metabolites were elevated in plasma and strongly associated with infection (quinolinic acid, glutamic acid, nicotinic acid, aspartic acid, neopterin, kynurenine, phenylalanine, 3-hydroxykynurenine, and taurine; p < 0.05), while four metabolites were lower in infection (tryptophan, histidine, indole-3-acetic acid, and citrulline; p < 0.05). This signature supports a systemic metabolic phenoconversion following infection, indicating possible neurotoxicity and neurological disruption (elevations of 3-hydroxykynurenine and quinolinic acid) and liver dysfunction (reduction in Fischer's ratio and elevation of taurine). Finally, we report correlations between the key metabolite changes observed in the disease with concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines showing strong immunometabolic disorder in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan G. Lawler
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Nicola Gray
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Torben Kimhofer
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Berin Boughton
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Melvin Gay
- Bruker Pty Ltd., Preston,
VIC 3072, Australia
| | - Rongchang Yang
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Aude-Claire Morillon
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Sung-Tong Chin
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Monique Ryan
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Sofina Begum
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
- Department of Metabolism Digestion and Reproduction,
Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Sir Alexander
Fleming Building, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Sze How Bong
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Jerome D. Coudert
- Centre for Molecular Medicine & Innovative
Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150,
Australia
| | - Dale Edgar
- State Adult Burn Unit, Fiona Stanley
Hospital, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Burn Injury Research Node, The University of
Notre Dame, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia
- Fiona Wood Foundation,
Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Edward Raby
- Department of Microbiology, PathWest
Laboratory Medicine, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona
Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Sven Pettersson
- Singapore National Neuro Science
Centre, Singapore Mandalay Road, Singapore 308232,
Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine,
Nanyang Technological University, Mandalay Road, Singapore
308232, Singapore
- Department of Life Science Centre,
Sunway University, 55100 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
| | - Toby Richards
- Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical
Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009,
Australia
| | - Elaine Holmes
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
- Department of Metabolism Digestion and Reproduction,
Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Sir Alexander
Fleming Building, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
| | - Luke Whiley
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and
Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009,
Australia
| | - Jeremy K. Nicholson
- Australian National Phenome Centre, Computational and
Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University,
Harry Perkins Building, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
- Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical
Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009,
Australia
- Institute of Global Health Innovation,
Imperial College London, Level 1, Faculty Building South
Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
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Papaverine, a Phosphodiesterase 10A Inhibitor, Ameliorates Quinolinic Acid-Induced Synaptotoxicity in Human Cortical Neurons. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:1238-1250. [PMID: 33914237 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00368-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase-10A (PDE10A) hydrolyse the secondary messengers cGMP and cAMP, two molecules playing important roles in neurodevelopment and brain functions. PDE10A is associated to progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's diseases, and a critical role in cognitive functions. The present study was undertaken to determine the possible neuroprotective effects and the associated mechanism of papaverine (PAP), a PDE10A isoenzyme inhibitor, against quinolinic acid (QUIN)-induced excitotoxicity using human primary cortical neurons. Cytotoxicity potential of PAP was analysed using MTS assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential were measured by DCF-DA and JC10 staining, respectively. Caspase 3/7 and cAMP levels were measured using ELISA kits. Effect of PAP on the CREB, BNDF and synaptic proteins such as SAP-97, synaptophysin, synapsin-I, and PSD-95 expression was analysed by Western blot. Pre-treatment with PAP increased intracellular cAMP and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels, restored mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and decreased ROS and caspase 3/7 content in QUIN exposed neurons. PAP up-regulated CREB and BDNF, and synaptic protein expression. In summary, these data indicate that PDE10A is involved in QUIN-mediated synaptotoxicity and its inhibition elicit neuroprotection by reducing the oxidative stress and protecting synaptic proteins via up-regulation of cAMP signalling cascade.
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20
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Correale J. Immunosuppressive Amino-Acid Catabolizing Enzymes in Multiple Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2021; 11:600428. [PMID: 33552055 PMCID: PMC7855700 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.600428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease that affects the central nervous system. Although the pathogenesis of MS is not yet fully elucidated, several evidences suggest that autoimmune processes mediated by Th1, Th17, and B cells play an important role in the development of the disease. Similar to other cells, immune cells need continuous access to amino acids (AA) in order to maintain basal metabolism and maintain vitality. When immune cells are activated by inflammation or antigenic signals, their demand for AA increases rapidly. Although AA deprivation itself may weaken the immune response under certain conditions, cells also have AA sensitive pathways that can activate intense alterations in cell metabolism based on changes in AA levels. Several data indicate that cells expressing enzymes that can degrade AA can regulate the functions of antigen-presenting cells and lymphocytes, revealing that the AA pathways are essential for controlling the function, and survival of immune cells, as well as immune cell gene expression. Basal AA catabolism may contribute to immune homeostasis and prevent autoimmunity, while increased AA catalytic activity may enhance immune suppression. In addition, there is increasing evidence that some downstream AA metabolites are important biological mediators of autoimmune response regulation. Two of the most important AA that modulate the immune response are L-Tryptophan (Trp) and L-Arginine (Arg). Tryptophan is catabolized through 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) 1 and IDO2 enzymes, while three other enzymes catabolize Arg: inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS), and two arginase isoforms (ARG1, ARG2). Genes encoding IDO, iNOS and ARG are induced by inflammatory cues such as cytokines, a key feature that distinguishes them from enzymes that catabolize other AA. Evidence suggests that AA catabolism is decreased in MS patients and that this decrease has functional consequences, increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreasing Treg cell numbers. These effects are mediated by at least two distinct pathways involving serine/threonine kinases: the general control nonderepressible 2 kinase (GCN2K) pathway; and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Similarly, IDO1-deficient mice showed exacerbation of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), increased Th1 and Th17 cells, and decreased Treg cells. On the contrary, the administration of downstream Trp metabolite 3-HAA, inhibits Th1/Th17 effector cells and promotes Treg response by up-regulating TGF-β production by dendritic cells, thereby improving EAE. Collectively, these observations stand out the significance of AA catabolism in the regulation of the immune responses in MS patients. The molecules related to these pathways deserve further exploration as potential new therapeutic targets in MS.
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21
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Involvement of Indoleamine-2,3-Dioxygenase and Kynurenine Pathway in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Mice. Neurochem Res 2020; 45:2959-2977. [PMID: 33040279 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-020-03144-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a model that mimics multiple sclerosis in rodents. Evidence has suggested that the activation of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), the rate-limiting enzyme in the kynurenine pathway (KP), plays a crucial role in inflammation-related diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the involvement of the inflammatory process and KP components in a model of EAE in mice. To identify the role of KP in EAE pathogenesis, mice received IDO inhibitor (INCB024360) at a dose of 200 mg/kg (per oral) for 25 days. We demonstrated that IDO inhibitor mitigated the clinical signs of EAE, in parallel with the reduction of cytokine levels (brain, spinal cord, spleen and lymph node) and ionized calcium-binding adaptor protein-1 (Iba-1) gene expression in the central nervous system of EAE mice. Besides, IDO inhibitor causes a significant decrease in the levels of tryptophan, kynurenine and neurotoxic metabolites of KP, such as 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) and quinolinic acid (QUIN) in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, spinal cord, spleen and lymph node of EAE mice. The mRNA expression and enzyme activity of IDO and kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO) were also reduced by IDO inhibitor. These findings indicate that the inflammatory process concomitant with the activation of IDO/KP is involved in the pathogenic mechanisms of EAE. The modulation of KP is a promising target for novel pharmacological treatment of MS.
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22
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Hunt C, Macedo E Cordeiro T, Suchting R, de Dios C, Cuellar Leal VA, Soares JC, Dantzer R, Teixeira AL, Selvaraj S. Effect of immune activation on the kynurenine pathway and depression symptoms - A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 118:514-523. [PMID: 32853625 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulated kynurenine (KYN) pathway has been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. In this systematic review, we examined the relationship between kynurenine pathway metabolites (KYN, kynurenic acid KYNA, tryptophan TRP, quinolinic acid QUIN, KYN/TRP ratio) and depression symptoms in the context of pro-inflammatory activation and immune response. Out of 5,082 articles, fifteen studies were suitable; ten studies (N = 315 medically ill patients treated with interferon-alpha IFN-α) reported baseline and post-intervention plasma KYN, TRP and KYN/TRP ratios which were included in quantitative meta-analysis. Data from five studies were summarized (IFN-α, interferon-beta IFN-β, and lipopolysaccharide LPS). We found that IFN-α treatment in patients with chronic illnesses was associated with decreased TRP, increased levels of KYN and KYN/TRP ratio and depression scores from baseline to follow-up at both 4 and 24 weeks. Our findings suggest that increased risk of depression observed after immune-activating agents in patients with chronic medical illnesses is likely mediated by the kynurenine pathway. Further prospective studies are required to investigate the exact pathophysiology of the KYN pathway in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Hunt
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, McGovern Medical School, 6431 Fannin St, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Thiago Macedo E Cordeiro
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Robert Suchting
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Constanza de Dios
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Valeria A Cuellar Leal
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Jair C Soares
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Robert Dantzer
- Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Antonio L Teixeira
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX, 77054, USA
| | - Sudhakar Selvaraj
- Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), 1941 East Rd, Houston, TX, 77054, USA; Houston Methodist Research Institute, Institute for Academic Medicine, 6670 Bertner St., Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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23
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Bosi A, Banfi D, Bistoletti M, Giaroni C, Baj A. Tryptophan Metabolites Along the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis: An Interkingdom Communication System Influencing the Gut in Health and Disease. Int J Tryptophan Res 2020; 13:1178646920928984. [PMID: 32577079 PMCID: PMC7290275 DOI: 10.1177/1178646920928984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ‘microbiota-gut-brain axis’ plays a fundamental role in maintaining host homeostasis, and different immune, hormonal, and neuronal signals participate to this interkingdom communication system between eukaryota and prokaryota. The essential aminoacid tryptophan, as a precursor of several molecules acting at the interface between the host and the microbiota, is fundamental in the modulation of this bidirectional communication axis. In the gut, tryptophan undergoes 3 major metabolic pathways, the 5-HT, kynurenine, and AhR ligand pathways, which may be directly or indirectly controlled by the saprophytic flora. The importance of tryptophan metabolites in the modulation of the gastrointestinal tract is suggested by several preclinical and clinical studies; however, a thorough revision of the available literature has not been accomplished yet. Thus, this review attempts to cover the major aspects on the role of tryptophan metabolites in host-microbiota cross-talk underlaying regulation of gut functions in health conditions and during disease states, with particular attention to 2 major gastrointestinal diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), both characterized by psychiatric disorders. Research in this area opens the possibility to target tryptophan metabolism to ameliorate the knowledge on the pathogenesis of both diseases, as well as to discover new therapeutic strategies based either on conventional pharmacological approaches or on the use of pre- and probiotics to manipulate the microbial flora.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Bosi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Davide Banfi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Michela Bistoletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Cristina Giaroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Andreina Baj
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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24
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Sundaram G, Lim CK, Brew BJ, Guillemin GJ. Kynurenine pathway modulation reverses the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mouse disease progression. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:176. [PMID: 32505212 PMCID: PMC7276083 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01844-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated disorder of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. Activation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) results from acute and chronic neuroinflammation leading to both immune suppression and neurotoxicity. However, the exact effects of KP metabolites and changes in neurodegenerative diseases over time are not fully understood. Studies, including those in MS models, have reported that short-term KP activation is beneficial through immune tolerance. However, the effects of long-term KP activation are poorly understood. We hypothesized that such chronic activation is responsible for the neurodegeneration in MS, and further, modulating the KP in EAE-induced mice could significantly decrease the EAE disease severity. METHODS We biochemically altered the KP at different stages of the disease in experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of MS and at two different enzymatic levels of the KP (IDO-1 (indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase)) and KMO (kynurenine monooxygenase). CNS tissue and blood samples were analyzed longitudinally using GCMS, HPLC, IHC, and RT-PCR. RESULTS We showed that the KP was steadily upregulated correlating with disease severity and associated with a shift towards increasing concentrations of the KP metabolite quinolinic acid, a neuro- and gliotoxin. KP modulation by inhibition of IDO-1 with 1-methyl tryptophan (1-MT) was dependent on the timing of treatment at various stages of EAE. IDO-1 inhibition at EAE score 2 led to significantly higher numbers of FoxP3 cells (p < 0.001) in the spleen than earlier IDO-1 inhibition (prophylactic 1-MT treatment group (p < 0.001)), 1-MT treatment after EAE induction (EAE score 0; p < 0.001), and 1-MT treatment at EAE score of 1 (p < 0.05). Significant improvement of disease severity was observed in EAE mice treated with 1-MT at EAE score 2 compared to the untreated group (p < 0.05). KP modulation by KMO inhibition with Ro 61-8048 led to significantly greater numbers of Foxp3 cells (p < 0.05) in Ro 61-8048 treated mice and even more significant amelioration of EAE disease compared to the 1-MT treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS These results provide a new mechanistic link between neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration and point to KP modulation at the KMO level to preserve immune tolerance and limit neurodegeneration in EAE. They provide the foundation for new clinical trials for MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Sundaram
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Chai K Lim
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Bruce J Brew
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
- St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
- Department of Neurology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
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25
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Meshkani SE, Mahdian D, Abbaszadeh-Goudarzi K, Abroudi M, Dadashizadeh G, Lalau JD, De Broe ME, Hosseinzadeh H. Metformin as a protective agent against natural or chemical toxicities: a comprehensive review on drug repositioning. J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:1-19. [PMID: 31098946 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-019-01060-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metformin is the first prescribed drug for hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Mainly by activating AMPK pathway, this drug exerts various functions that among them protective effects are of the interest. PURPOSE Herein, we aimed to gather data about the protective impacts of metformin against various natural or chemical toxicities. RESULTS An extensive search among PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted by keywords related to protection, toxicity, natural and chemical toxins and, metformin. Our literature review showed metformin alongside its anti-hyperglycemic effect has a wide range of anti-toxic effects against anti-tumour and routine drugs, natural and chemical toxins, herbicides and, heavy metals. CONCLUSION It is evident that metformin is a potent drug against the toxicity of a broad spectrum of natural, chemical toxic agents which is proved by a vast number of studies. Metformin mainly through AMPK axis can protect different organs against toxicities. Moreover, metformin preserves DNA integrity and can be an option for adjuvant therapy to ameliorate side effect of other therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Meshkani
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - D Mahdian
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - K Abbaszadeh-Goudarzi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - M Abroudi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - G Dadashizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - J-D Lalau
- Department of Endocrinology, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - M E De Broe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Universiteit Antwerpen, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - H Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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26
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Mohapatra SR, Sadik A, Tykocinski LO, Dietze J, Poschet G, Heiland I, Opitz CA. Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1α Inhibits the Expression of Immunosuppressive Tryptophan-2,3-Dioxygenase in Glioblastoma. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2762. [PMID: 31866995 PMCID: PMC6905408 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal circulation in solid tumors results in hypoxia, which modulates both tumor intrinsic malignant properties as well as anti-tumor immune responses. Given the importance of hypoxia in glioblastoma (GBM) biology and particularly in shaping anti-tumor immunity, we analyzed which immunomodulatory genes are differentially regulated in response to hypoxia in GBM cells. Gene expression analyses identified the immunosuppressive enzyme tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2) as the second most downregulated gene in GBM cells cultured under hypoxic conditions. TDO2 catalyses the oxidation of tryptophan to N-formyl kynurenine, which is the first and rate-limiting step of Trp degradation along the kynurenine pathway (KP). In multiple GBM cell lines hypoxia reduced TDO2 expression both at mRNA and protein levels. The downregulation of TDO2 through hypoxia was reversible as re-oxygenation rescued TDO2 expression. Computational modeling of tryptophan metabolism predicted reduced flux through the KP and lower intracellular concentrations of kynurenine and its downstream metabolite 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid under hypoxia. Metabolic measurements confirmed the predicted changes, thus demonstrating the ability of the mathematical model to infer intracellular tryptophan metabolite concentrations. Moreover, we identified hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) to regulate TDO2 expression under hypoxic conditions, as the HIF1α-stabilizing agents dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG) and cobalt chloride reduced TDO2 expression. Knockdown of HIF1α restored the expression of TDO2 upon cobalt chloride treatment, confirming that HIF1α controls TDO2 expression. To investigate the immunoregulatory effects of this novel mechanism of TDO2 regulation, we co-cultured isolated T cells with TDO2-expressing GBM cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Under normoxia TDO2-expressing GBM cells suppressed T cell proliferation, while hypoxia restored the proliferation of the T cells, likely due to the reduction in kynurenine levels produced by the GBM cells. Taken together, our data suggest that the regulation of TDO2 expression by HIF1α may be involved in modulating anti-tumor immunity in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya R Mohapatra
- DKTK Brain Cancer Metabolism Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ahmed Sadik
- DKTK Brain Cancer Metabolism Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Bioscience, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lars-Oliver Tykocinski
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine V, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jørn Dietze
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Gernot Poschet
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ines Heiland
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Christiane A Opitz
- DKTK Brain Cancer Metabolism Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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27
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Melatonin and Multiple Sclerosis: From Plausible Neuropharmacological Mechanisms of Action to Experimental and Clinical Evidence. Clin Drug Investig 2019; 39:607-624. [PMID: 31054087 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-019-00793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a devastating chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), thought to affect more than 2.5 million people worldwide. Regulation of the sleep-wake cycle might influence disease activity and the frequency of relapses in patients. As melatonin (or sleep hormone) involves the regulation of circadian rhythms, much attention has been paid to the management of MS symptoms with melatonin. This review describes the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of melatonin and recent clinical evidence from MS patients. Apparent risks and benefits of melatonin therapies are also discussed. Various in vivo and clinical data presented in this up-to-date review suggest that melatonin may possibly possess a protective role against the behavioral deficits and neuropathological characteristics of MS. Multiple mechanisms of the neuroprotective effects of melatonin such as mitochondrial protection and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, as well as its anti-demyelinating function are also discussed. A large body of evidence shows that melatonin potently regulates the immune system, demyelination, free radical generation, and inflammatory responses in neural tissue, which are mediated by multiple signal transduction cascades. In the present article, we focus on different pathways that are targeted by melatonin to prevent the development and progression of MS.
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28
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Kern S, Geiger M, Paucke M, Kästner A, Akgün K, Ziemssen T. Clinical relevance of circadian melatonin release in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2019; 97:1547-1555. [PMID: 31471628 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-019-01821-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence indicates the role of melatonin (MT) in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS): It modulates immune function, alleviates oxidative stress and it is linked to seasonality of MS relapse. This report addresses the potential clinical relevance of circadian MT rhythms in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients. The study sample comprised of fifty-five RRMS patients and fifty age- and sex-matched healthy control (HC) subjects. Circadian salivary MT was measured non-invasively at 12 time points over day in participants' home environment. 6-Hydroxy-melatoninsulfate (MT sulfate) concentration in night-time urine was assessed as an estimate for nocturnal MT. Ratings for neurological disability, health-related quality of life (HrQoL), fatigue, depressive symptoms and sleep patterns were additionally obtained. There was no evidence for an overall disturbed MT rhythm in RRMS patients. However, lower MT levels within the first hour after awakening were associated with longer disease duration. MT levels only correlated moderately with neurological disability. Sleep disruptions were more common in patients than in controls and were associated with lower nocturnal MT sulfate levels. MT also correlated moderately with fatigue and HrQoL. We did not find evidence for a generally disturbed circadian MT rhythm in RRMS patients but longer disease duration was associated with significantly lower MT levels. Moreover, MT correlated with a series of clinical features. The exact nature of this relationship remains unclear and future studies are needed in order to determine whether MT could serve as a potential therapeutic target in MS. KEY MESSAGES: Melatonin acts as a free radical scavenger and modulates immune function. In multiple sclerosis, low melatonin levels were associated with acute exacerbations. Melatonin levels are not generally disturbed in multiple sclerosis patients. But lower levels are associated with disease duration and clinical aspects. Salivary melatonin after awakening might serve as a good measure of melatonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Kern
- Zentrum für Klinische Neurowissenschaften, Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, CGC Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Michael Geiger
- Zentrum für Klinische Neurowissenschaften, Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, CGC Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Madlen Paucke
- Zentrum für Klinische Neurowissenschaften, Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, CGC Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alina Kästner
- Zentrum für Klinische Neurowissenschaften, Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, CGC Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Katja Akgün
- Zentrum für Klinische Neurowissenschaften, Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, CGC Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Zentrum für Klinische Neurowissenschaften, Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, CGC Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Rahman A, Al-Qenaie S, Rao MS, Khan KM, Guillemin GJ. Memantine Is Protective against Cytotoxicity Caused by Lead and Quinolinic Acid in Cultured Rat Embryonic Hippocampal Cells. Chem Res Toxicol 2019; 32:1134-1143. [PMID: 30950269 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Quinolinic acid (QA) is an excitotoxic metabolite of the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism produced in response to inflammation and oxidative stress. Lead (Pb) causes oxidative stress and thus may produce neurotoxicity by increasing QA production. We investigated the in vitro cytotoxic effects of Pb and QA and the protective effects of the NMDA receptor antagonist memantine. Primary cultures of embryonic hippocampal cells from Wistar rats were treated with different concentrations of Pb, QA, and Pb + QA with and without memantine. Cell viability was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT). Apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry after Annexin-V/propidium iodide staining. The numbers of immunostained neurons (with β3-Tubulin; Tuj1) and astrocytes (with glial fibrillary acidic protein) were counted. Pb at 20 μg/dL (0.97 μM) and QA at 500 nM concentrations showed significant cytotoxic effects, as evidenced by decreased cell viability, increased apoptosis, and a decrease in the number of both astrocytes and neurons. The combination of Pb and QA showed significant synergistic apoptotic effects at lower doses. Memantine (500 nM) was largely protective against the cytotoxic effects of both Pb and QA, suggesting that Pb's and QA's cytotoxicity involves NMDA receptor activation. Whereas the neuroprotection by memantine from QA-induced toxicity has been previously reported, this is the first study reporting the protection by memantine against Pb-induced cytotoxicity in cultured hippocampal cells. Protection by memantine against these neurotoxicants in vivo needs to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdur Rahman
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Life Sciences , Kuwait University , 13060 Kuwait City , Kuwait
| | - Sara Al-Qenaie
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Life Sciences , Kuwait University , 13060 Kuwait City , Kuwait.,Kuwait Oil Company Hospital , 61008 Ahmadi , Kuwait
| | - Muddanna S Rao
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine , Kuwait University , 13060 Kuwait City , Kuwait
| | - Khalid M Khan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine , Kuwait University , 13060 Kuwait City , Kuwait
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , Macquarie University , Macquarie Park , New South Wales 2109 , Australia
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Woelfer M, Kasties V, Kahlfuss S, Walter M. The Role of Depressive Subtypes within the Neuroinflammation Hypothesis of Major Depressive Disorder. Neuroscience 2019; 403:93-110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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31
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Mangas A, Heredia M, Riolobos A, De la Fuente A, Criado JM, Yajeya J, Geffard M, Coveñas R. Overexpression of kynurenic acid and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid after rat traumatic brain injury. Eur J Histochem 2018; 62:2985. [PMID: 30426733 PMCID: PMC6275464 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2018.2985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Using an immunohistochemical technique, we have studied the distribution of kynuneric acid (KYNA) and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3-HAA) in a rat brain injury model (trauma). The study was carried out inducing a cerebral ablation of the frontal motor cortex. Two mouse monoclonal specific antibodies previously developed by our group directed against KYNA and 3-HAA were used. In control animals (sham-operated), the expression of both KYNA and 3-HAA was not observed. In animals in which the ablation was performed, the highest number of immunoreactive cells containing KYNA or 3-HAA was observed in the region surrounding the lesion and the number of these cells decreased moving away from the lesion. KYNA and 3-HAA were also observed in the white matter (ipsilateral side) located close to the injured region and in some cells placed in the white matter of the contralateral side. The distribution of KYNA and 3-HAA perfectly matched with the peripheral injured regions. The results found were identical independently of the perfusion date of animals (17, 30 or 54 days after brain injury). For the first time, the presence of KYNA and 3-HAA has been described in a rat trauma model. Moreover, by using a double immunocytochemistry protocol, it has been demonstrated that both metabolites were located in astrocytes. The findings observed suggest that, in cerebral trauma, KYNA and 3-HAA are involved in tissue damage and that these compounds could act, respectively, as a neuroprotector and a neurotoxic. This means that, in trauma, a counterbalance occurs and that a regulation of the indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) pathway could be required after a brain injury in order to decrease the deleterious effects of ending metabolites (the neurotoxic picolinic acid). Moreover, the localization of KYNA and 3-HAA in the contralateral side of the lesion suggests that the IDO pathway is also involved in the sprouting and pathfinding that follows a traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Mangas
- Gemacbio, France; University of Salamanca, Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla y León.
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Rahman A, Rao MS, Khan KM. Intraventricular infusion of quinolinic acid impairs spatial learning and memory in young rats: a novel mechanism of lead-induced neurotoxicity. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:263. [PMID: 30217162 PMCID: PMC6137743 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1306-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lead (Pb), a heavy metal, and quinolinic acid (QA), a metabolite of the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism, are known neurotoxicants. Both Pb and QA impair spatial learning and memory. Pb activates astrocytes and microglia, which in turn induce the synthesis of QA. We hypothesized increased QA production in response to Pb exposure as a novel mechanism of Pb-neurotoxicity. Methods Two experimental paradigms were used. In experiment one, Wistar rat pups were exposed to Pb via their dams’ drinking water from postnatal day 1 to 21. Control group was given regular water. In the second protocol, QA (9 mM) or normal saline (as Vehicle Control) was infused into right lateral ventricle of 21-day old rats for 7 days using osmotic pumps. Learning and memory were assessed by Morris water maze test on postnatal day 30 or 45 in both Pb- and QA-exposed rats. QA levels in the Pb exposed rats were measured in blood by ELISA and in the brain by immunohistochemistry on postnatal days 45 and 60. Expression of various molecules involved in learning and memory was analyzed by Western blot. Means of control and experimental groups were compared with two-way repeated measure ANOVA (learning) and t test (all other variables). Results Pb exposure increased QA level in the blood (by ~ 58%) and increased (p < 0.05) the number of QA-immunoreactive cells in the cortex, and CA1, CA3 and dentate gyrus regions of the hippocampus, compared to control rats. In separate experiments, QA infusion impaired learning and short-term memory similar to Pb. PSD-95, PP1, and PP2A were decreased (p < 0.05) in the QA-infused rats, whereas tau phosphorylation was increased, compared to vehicle infused rats. Conclusion Putting together the results of the two experimental paradigms, we propose that increased QA production in response to Pb exposure is a novel mechanism of Pb-induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdur Rahman
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
| | - Muddanna S Rao
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Khalid M Khan
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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Bo L, Guojun T, Li G. An Expanded Neuroimmunomodulation Axis: sCD83-Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase-Kynurenine Pathway and Updates of Kynurenine Pathway in Neurologic Diseases. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1363. [PMID: 29963055 PMCID: PMC6013554 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Many neurologic diseases are related to autoimmune dysfunction and a variety of molecules or reaction pathways are involved in the regulation of immune function of the nervous system. Soluble CD83 (sCD83) is the soluble form of CD83, a specific marker of mature dendritic cell, which has recently been shown to have an immunomodulatory effect. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO; corresponding enzyme intrahepatic, tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase, TDO), a rate-limiting enzyme of extrahepatic tryptophan kynurenine pathway (KP) participates in the immunoregulation through a variety of mechanisms solely or with the synergy of sCD83, and the imbalances of metabolites of KP were associated with immune dysfunction. With the complement of sCD83 to IDO-KP, a previously known immunomodulatory axis, this review focused on an expanded neuroimmunomodulation axis: sCD83-IDO-KP and its involvement in nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Bo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Tan Guojun
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Guo Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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Feng W, Wang Y, Liu ZQ, Zhang X, Han R, Miao YZ, Qin ZH. Microglia activation contributes to quinolinic acid-induced neuronal excitotoxicity through TNF-α. Apoptosis 2018; 22:696-709. [PMID: 28315174 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-017-1363-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
It has been reported that activation of NF-κB is involved in excitotoxicity; however, it is not fully understood how NF-κB contributes to excitotoxicity. The aim of this study is to investigate if NF-κB contributes to quinolinic acid (QA)-mediated excitotoxicity through activation of microglia. In the cultured primary cortical neurons and microglia BV-2 cells, the effects of QA on cell survival, NF-κB expression and cytokines production were investigated. The effects of BV-2-conditioned medium (BCM) on primary cortical neurons were examined. The effects of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), an inhibitor of NF-κB, and minocycline (MC), an inhibitor of microglia activation, on QA-induced excitotoxicity were assessed. QA-induced NF-κB activation and TNF-α secretion, and the roles of TNF-α in excitotoxicity were studied. QA at the concentration below 1 mM had no apparent toxic effects on cultured primary neurons or BV-2 cells. However, addition of QA-primed BCM to primary neurons did aggravate QA-induced excitotoxicity. The exacerbation of QA-induced excitotoxicity by BCM was partially ameliorated by inhibiting NF-κB and microglia activation. QA induced activation of NF-κB and upregulation of TNF-α in BV-2 cells. Addition of recombinant TNF-α mimicked QA-induced excitotoxic effects on neurons, and neutralizing TNF-α with specific antibodies partially abolished exacerbation of QA-induced excitotoxicity by BCM. These studies suggested that QA activated microglia and upregulated TNF-α through NF-κB pathway in microglia. The microglia-mediated inflammatory pathway contributed, at least in part, to QA-induced excitotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Feng
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases (SZS0703), College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases (SZS0703), College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zi-Qi Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases (SZS0703), College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases (SZS0703), College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Rong Han
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases (SZS0703), College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - You-Zhu Miao
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases (SZS0703), College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Zheng-Hong Qin
- Department of Pharmacology and Laboratory of Aging and Nervous Diseases (SZS0703), College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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35
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Involvement of the kynurenine pathway in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease. Prog Neurobiol 2017; 155:76-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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36
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Sadeghnia HR, Jamshidi R, Afshari AR, Mollazadeh H, Forouzanfar F, Rakhshandeh H. Terminalia chebula attenuates quinolinate-induced oxidative PC12 and OLN-93 cell death. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2017; 14:60-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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37
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Baranyi A, Amouzadeh-Ghadikolai O, Lewinski DV, Breitenecker RJ, Stojakovic T, März W, Robier C, Rothenhäusler HB, Mangge H, Meinitzer A. Beta-trace Protein as a new non-invasive immunological Marker for Quinolinic Acid-induced impaired Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43642. [PMID: 28276430 PMCID: PMC5343478 DOI: 10.1038/srep43642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Quinolinic acid, a macrophage/microglia-derived excitotoxin fulfills a plethora of functions such as neurotoxin, gliotoxin, and proinflammatory mediator, and it alters the integrity and cohesion of the blood-brain barrier in several pathophysiological states. Beta-trace protein (BTP), a monomeric glycoprotein, is known to indicate cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Thus, the prior aim of this study was to investigate whether BTP might non-invasively indicate quinolinic acid-induced impaired blood-brain barrier integrity. The research hypotheses were tested in three subsamples with different states of immune activation (patients with HCV-infection and interferon-α, patients with major depression, and healthy controls). BTP has also been described as a sensitive marker in detecting impaired renal function. Thus, the renal function has been considered. Our study results revealed highest quinolinic acid and highest BTP- levels in the subsample of patients with HCV in comparison with the other subsamples with lower or no immune activation (quinolinic acid: F = 21.027, p < 0.001 [ANOVA]; BTP: F = 6.792, p < 0.01 [ANOVA]). In addition, a two-step hierarchical linear regression model showed that significant predictors of BTP levels are quinolinic acid, glomerular filtration rate and age. The neurotoxin quinolinic acid may impair blood-brain barrier integrity. BTP might be a new non-invasive biomarker to indicate quinolinic acid-induced impaired blood-brain barrier integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Baranyi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Institute for International Management Practice, ARU Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Dirk von Lewinski
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Robert J Breitenecker
- Department of Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship, Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Tatjana Stojakovic
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Winfried März
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Synlab Academy, Synlab Services LLC, Mannheim, Germany.,Medical Clinic V (Nephrology, Hypertensiology, Endocrinology), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruperto Carola University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christoph Robier
- Hospital of the Brothers of St. John of God, Graz, Austria.,Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Hans-Bernd Rothenhäusler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Harald Mangge
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Meinitzer
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Rajda C, Pukoli D, Bende Z, Majláth Z, Vécsei L. Excitotoxins, Mitochondrial and Redox Disturbances in Multiple Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18020353. [PMID: 28208701 PMCID: PMC5343888 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18020353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). There is increasing evidence that MS is not only characterized by immune mediated inflammatory reactions, but also by neurodegenerative processes. There is cumulating evidence that neurodegenerative processes, for example mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and glutamate (Glu) excitotoxicity, seem to play an important role in the pathogenesis of MS. The alteration of mitochondrial homeostasis leads to the formation of excitotoxins and redox disturbances. Mitochondrial dysfunction (energy disposal failure, apoptosis, etc.), redox disturbances (oxidative stress and enhanced reactive oxygen and nitrogen species production), and excitotoxicity (Glu mediated toxicity) may play an important role in the progression of the disease, causing axonal and neuronal damage. This review focuses on the mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction (including mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) defects and mitochondrial structural/functional changes), oxidative stress (including reactive oxygen and nitric species), and excitotoxicity that are involved in MS and also discusses the potential targets and tools for therapeutic approaches in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Rajda
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Dániel Pukoli
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
- Department of Neurology, Vaszary Kolos Hospital, 2500 Esztergom, Hungary.
| | - Zsuzsanna Bende
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Zsófia Majláth
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
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Kynurenine pathway metabolomics predicts and provides mechanistic insight into multiple sclerosis progression. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41473. [PMID: 28155867 PMCID: PMC5290739 DOI: 10.1038/srep41473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan metabolism results from chronic inflammation and is known to exacerbate progression of neurodegenerative disease. To gain insights into the links between inflammation, the KP and multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis, we investigated the KP metabolomics profile of MS patients. Most significantly, we found aberrant levels of two key KP metabolites, kynurenic acid (KA) and quinolinic acid (QA). The balance between these metabolites is important as it determines overall excitotoxic activity at the N-methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptor. We also identified that serum KP metabolic signatures in patients can discriminate clinical MS subtypes with high sensitivity and specificity. A C5.0 Decision Tree classification model discriminated the clinical subtypes of MS with a sensitivity of 91%. After validation in another independent cohort, sensitivity was maintained at 85%. Collectively, our studies suggest that abnormalities in the KP may be associated with the switch from early-mild stage MS to debilitating progressive forms of MS and that analysis of KP metabolites in MS patient serum may have application as MS disease biomarkers.
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40
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Lovelace MD, Varney B, Sundaram G, Lennon MJ, Lim CK, Jacobs K, Guillemin GJ, Brew BJ. Recent evidence for an expanded role of the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism in neurological diseases. Neuropharmacology 2017; 112:373-388. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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41
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Mangas A, Yajeya J, González N, Ruiz I, Geffard M, Coveñas R. 3-hydroxi-anthranilic acid is early expressed in stroke. Eur J Histochem 2016; 60:2709. [PMID: 28076933 PMCID: PMC5159783 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2016.2709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Using an immunohistochemical technique, we have studied the distribution of 3-OH-anthranilic acid (3-HAA) in the rat brain. Our study was carried out in control animals and in rats in which a stroke model (single transient middle cerebral artery occlusion) was performed. A monoclonal antibody directed against 3-HAA was also developed. 3-HAA was exclusively observed in the infarcted regions (ipsilateral striatum/cerebral cortex), 2, 5 and 21 days after the induction of stroke. In control rats and in the contralateral side of the stroke animals, no immunoreactivity for 3-HAA was visualized. Under pathological conditions (from early phases of stroke), we reported for the first time the presence of 3-HAA in the mammalian brain. By double immunohistochemistry, the coexistence of 3-HAA and GFAP was observed in astrocytes. The distribution of 3-HAA matched perfectly with the infarcted regions. Our findings suggest that, in stroke, 3-HAA could be involved in the tissue damage observed in the infarcted regions, since it is well known that 3-HAA exerts cytotoxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mangas
- Gemacbio - Institute for the Development of Research in Human Pathology and Therapeutic (IDRPHT) - University of Salamanca.
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42
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Chiappelli J, Postolache TT, Kochunov P, Rowland LM, Wijtenburg SA, Shukla DK, Tagamets M, Du X, Savransky A, Lowry CA, Can A, Fuchs D, Hong LE. Tryptophan Metabolism and White Matter Integrity in Schizophrenia. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:2587-95. [PMID: 27143602 PMCID: PMC4987857 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2016.66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is associated with abnormalities in the structure and functioning of white matter, but the underlying neuropathology is unclear. We hypothesized that increased tryptophan degradation in the kynurenine pathway could be associated with white matter microstructure and biochemistry, potentially contributing to white matter abnormalities in schizophrenia. To test this, fasting plasma samples were obtained from 37 schizophrenia patients and 38 healthy controls and levels of total tryptophan and its metabolite kynurenine were assessed. The ratio of kynurenine to tryptophan was used as an index of tryptophan catabolic activity in this pathway. White matter structure and function were assessed by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and (1)H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Tryptophan levels were significantly lower (p<0.001), and kynurenine/tryptophan ratios were correspondingly higher (p=0.018) in patients compared with controls. In patients, lower plasma tryptophan levels corresponded to lower structural integrity (DTI fractional anisotropy) (r=0.347, p=0.038). In both patients and controls, the kynurenine/tryptophan ratio was inversely correlated with frontal white matter glutamate level (r=-0.391 and -0.350 respectively, p=0.024 and 0.036). These results provide initial evidence implicating abnormal tryptophan/kynurenine pathway activity in changes to white matter integrity and white matter glutamate in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Chiappelli
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, PO Box 21247, Baltimore, MD 21228, USA, Tel: +1 410 402 6827, Fax: +1 410 402 6077, E-mail:
| | - Teodor T Postolache
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,MIRECC, VISN 5, Baltimore, MD, USA,Rocky Mountain MIRECC for Suicide Prevention, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Peter Kochunov
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura M Rowland
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - S Andrea Wijtenburg
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Dinesh K Shukla
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Malle Tagamets
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xiaoming Du
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anya Savransky
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christopher A Lowry
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Adem Can
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Dietmar Fuchs
- Division of Biological Chemistry, Biocenter, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - L Elliot Hong
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Wen J, Ariyannur PS, Ribeiro R, Tanaka M, Moffett JR, Kirmani BF, Namboodiri AMA, Zhang Y. Efficacy of N-Acetylserotonin and Melatonin in the EAE Model of Multiple Sclerosis. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2016; 11:763-773. [PMID: 27562847 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-016-9702-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin and N-acetylserotonin (NAS) are tryptophan metabolites that have potent anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties in several animal models of neurological injury and disease including multiple sclerosis (MS). The therapeutic effect of NAS has not been reported previously in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a commonly used animal model of MS. Using a MOG-peptide induced EAE mouse model we examined the effects of melatonin and NAS on clinical score, inflammatory markers, free radical generation, and sparing of axons, oligodendrocytes and myelin. We found that NAS and melatonin reduced clinical scores when administered prior to or after symptom onset. This effect was more pronounced when melatonin and NAS were administrated prior to symptom onset whereby the appearance of motor symptoms was significantly delayed. Activated microglia and CD4+ T-cells were increased in the white matter of untreated EAE mice, with a return to near control levels after melatonin or NAS treatment. The expression of the NADPH oxidase component p67phox and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was increased in the EAE mice as compared with controls, and both drug treated groups had significant reductions in their expression. Melatonin and NAS treatment significantly reduced the loss of mature oligodendrocytes, demyelination and axonal injury. Both compounds also significantly attenuated iNOS induction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in lipopolysaccharide-activated microglia in culture. Our results show for the first time the therapeutic effects of NAS and confirm previous reports on the effectiveness of melatonin in the EAE model of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wen
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Neuroscience Program, Bldg. C, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Prasanth S Ariyannur
- Molecular Diagnostics Div., Department of Medical Oncology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Amrita University, Kochi, India
| | - Rachel Ribeiro
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Neuroscience Program, Bldg. C, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Mikiei Tanaka
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Neuroscience Program, Bldg. C, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - John R Moffett
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Neuroscience Program, Bldg. C, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Batool F Kirmani
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Scott and White Hospital, Texas A&M University, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Aryan M A Namboodiri
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Neuroscience Program, Bldg. C, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Neuroscience Program, Bldg. C, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
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Lovelace MD, Varney B, Sundaram G, Franco NF, Ng ML, Pai S, Lim CK, Guillemin GJ, Brew BJ. Current Evidence for a Role of the Kynurenine Pathway of Tryptophan Metabolism in Multiple Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2016; 7:246. [PMID: 27540379 PMCID: PMC4972824 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the major metabolic pathway of the essential amino acid tryptophan (TRP). Stimulation by inflammatory molecules, such as interferon-γ (IFN-γ), is the trigger for induction of the KP, driving a complex cascade of production of both neuroprotective and neurotoxic metabolites, and in turn, regulation of the immune response and responses of brain cells to the KP metabolites. Consequently, substantial evidence has accumulated over the past couple of decades that dysregulation of the KP and the production of neurotoxic metabolites are associated with many neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, AIDS-related dementia, motor neurone disease, schizophrenia, Huntington’s disease, and brain cancers. In the past decade, evidence of the link between the KP and multiple sclerosis (MS) has rapidly grown and has implicated the KP in MS pathogenesis. KP enzymes, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO-1) and tryptophan dioxygenase (highest expression in hepatic cells), are the principal enzymes triggering activation of the KP to produce kynurenine from TRP. This is in preference to other routes such as serotonin and melatonin production. In neurological disease, degradation of the blood–brain barrier, even if transient, allows the entry of blood monocytes into the brain parenchyma. Similar to microglia and macrophages, these cells are highly responsive to IFN-γ, which upregulates the expression of enzymes, including IDO-1, producing neurotoxic KP metabolites such as quinolinic acid. These metabolites circulate systemically or are released locally in the brain and can contribute to the excitotoxic death of oligodendrocytes and neurons in neurological disease principally by virtue of their agonist activity at N-methyl-d-aspartic acid receptors. The latest evidence is presented and discussed. The enzymes that control the checkpoints in the KP represent an attractive therapeutic target, and consequently several KP inhibitors are currently in clinical trials for other neurological diseases, and hence may make suitable candidates for MS patients. Underpinning these drug discovery endeavors, in recent years, several advances have been made in how KP metabolites are assayed in various biological fluids, and tremendous advancements have been made in how specimens are imaged to determine disease progression and involvement of various cell types and molecules in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Lovelace
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bianca Varney
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research , Sydney, NSW , Australia
| | - Gayathri Sundaram
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research , Sydney, NSW , Australia
| | - Nunzio F Franco
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research , Sydney, NSW , Australia
| | - Mei Li Ng
- Faculty of Medicine, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney , Sydney, NSW , Australia
| | - Saparna Pai
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney , Sydney, NSW , Australia
| | - Chai K Lim
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University , Sydney, NSW , Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University , Sydney, NSW , Australia
| | - Bruce J Brew
- Applied Neurosciences Program, Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Neurology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises a complex of receptors, enzymes, and endogenous agonists that are widely distributed in the central nervous system of mammals and participates in a considerable number of neuromodulatory functions, including neurotransmission, immunological control, and cell signaling. In turn, the kynurenine pathway (KP) is the most relevant metabolic route for tryptophan degradation to form the metabolic precursor NAD(+). Recent studies demonstrate that the control exerted by the pharmacological manipulation of the ECS on the glutamatergic system in the brain may offer key information not only on the development of psychiatric disorders like psychosis and schizophrenia-like symptoms, but it also may constitute a solid basis for the development of therapeutic strategies to combat excitotoxic events occurring in neurological disorders like Huntington's disease (HD). Part of the evidence pointing to the last approach is based on experimental protocols demonstrating the efficacy of cannabinoids to prevent the deleterious actions of the endogenous neurotoxin and KP metabolite quinolinic acid (QUIN). These findings intuitively raise the question about what is the precise role of the ECS in tryptophan metabolism through KP and vice versa. In this chapter, we will review basic concepts on the physiology of both the ECS and the KP to finally describe those recent findings combining the components of these two systems and hypothesize the future course that the research in this emerging field will take in the next years.
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O'Farrell K, Harkin A. Stress-related regulation of the kynurenine pathway: Relevance to neuropsychiatric and degenerative disorders. Neuropharmacology 2015; 112:307-323. [PMID: 26690895 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP), which is activated in times of stress and infection has been implicated in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Activation of this tryptophan metabolising pathway results in the production of neuroactive metabolites which have the potential to interfere with normal neuronal functioning which may contribute to altered neuronal transmission and the emergence of symptoms of these brain disorders. This review investigates the involvement of the KP in a range of neurological disorders, examining recent in vitro, in vivo and clinical discoveries highlights evidence to indicate that the KP is a potential therapeutic target in both neurodegenerative and stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. Furthermore, this review identifies gaps in our knowledge with regard to this field which are yet to be examined to lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the role of KP activation in brain health and disease. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'The Kynurenine Pathway in Health and Disease'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine O'Farrell
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Andrew Harkin
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; Neuroimmunology Research Group, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine & Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland.
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Baranyi A, Meinitzer A, Breitenecker RJ, Amouzadeh-Ghadikolai O, Stauber R, Rothenhäusler HB. Quinolinic Acid Responses during Interferon-α-Induced Depressive Symptomatology in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Infection - A Novel Aspect for Depression and Inflammatory Hypothesis. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137022. [PMID: 26368809 PMCID: PMC4569409 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this exploratory study is to gain for the first time a more comprehensive picture of the impact of changes of quinolinic acid concentrations on depressive symptomatology during and after IFN-α therapy. METHODS The quinolinic acid concentrations of 35 HCV patients are examined in a prospective survey over the entire period of IFN-α treatment as well as three months later at six different times (baseline, one, three, six and nine months after the beginning of IFN-α treatment, and after the end of treatment). RESULTS During IFN-α treatment Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores rise significantly. At the same time there is greater activity of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, with a resulting increase in plasma kynurenine concentrations. Compared to baseline values quinolinic acid concentrations increase significantly during therapy, reflecting an increased neurotoxic challenge. In addition, patients with higher scores in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale at six and nine months after starting therapy show significantly higher levels of quinolinic acid concentration. CONCLUSIONS The increase of quinolinic acid during IFN-α therapy might contribute to depressive symptomatology through the neurotoxic challenge caused by quinolinic acid. Subsequently, our exploratory study results support the inflammatory hypothesis of depression. The awareness of relevant risk factors of IFN-α treatment-induced depression is essential to develop preventative treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Baranyi
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- * E-mail:
| | - Andreas Meinitzer
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Robert J. Breitenecker
- Alpen-Adria Universität Klagenfurt, Department of Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | | | - Rudolf Stauber
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Kynurenines and Multiple Sclerosis: The Dialogue between the Immune System and the Central Nervous System. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:18270-82. [PMID: 26287161 PMCID: PMC4581244 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160818270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, in which axonal transection takes place in parallel with acute inflammation to various, individual extents. The importance of the kynurenine pathway in the physiological functions and pathological processes of the nervous system has been extensively investigated, but it has additionally been implicated as having a regulatory function in the immune system. Alterations in the kynurenine pathway have been described in both preclinical and clinical investigations of multiple sclerosis. These observations led to the identification of potential therapeutic targets in multiple sclerosis, such as synthetic tryptophan analogs, endogenous tryptophan metabolites (e.g., cinnabarinic acid), structural analogs (laquinimod, teriflunomid, leflunomid and tranilast), indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase inhibitors (1MT and berberine) and kynurenine-3-monooxygenase inhibitors (nicotinylalanine and Ro 61-8048). The kynurenine pathway is a promising novel target via which to influence the immune system and to achieve neuroprotection, and further research is therefore needed with the aim of developing novel drugs for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases.
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Jones SP, Franco NF, Varney B, Sundaram G, Brown DA, de Bie J, Lim CK, Guillemin GJ, Brew BJ. Expression of the Kynurenine Pathway in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: Implications for Inflammatory and Neurodegenerative Disease. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131389. [PMID: 26114426 PMCID: PMC4482723 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway is a fundamental mechanism of immunosuppression and peripheral tolerance. It is increasingly recognized as playing a major role in the pathogenesis of a wide variety of inflammatory, neurodegenerative and malignant disorders. However, the temporal dynamics of kynurenine pathway activation and metabolite production in human immune cells is currently unknown. Here we report the novel use of flow cytometry, combined with ultra high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, to sensitively quantify the intracellular expression of three key kynurenine pathway enzymes and the main kynurenine pathway metabolites in a time-course study. This is the first study to show that up-regulation of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO-1), kynurenine 3-monoxygenase (KMO) and quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase (QPRT) is lacking in lymphocytes treated with interferon gamma. In contrast, peripheral monocytes showed a significant elevation of kynurenine pathway enzymes and metabolites when treated with interferon gamma. Expression of IDO-1, KMO and QPRT correlated significantly with activation of the kynurenine pathway (kynurenine:tryptophan ratio), quinolinic acid concentration and production of the monocyte derived, pro-inflammatory immune response marker: neopterin. Our results also describe an original and sensitive methodological approach to quantify kynurenine pathway enzyme expression in cells. This has revealed further insights into the potential role of these enzymes in disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon P. Jones
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Nunzio F. Franco
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bianca Varney
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gayathri Sundaram
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - David A. Brown
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Josien de Bie
- Neuroinflammation group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Chai K. Lim
- Neuroinflammation group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gilles J. Guillemin
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Neuroinflammation group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bruce J. Brew
- Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit, St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Neurology, St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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