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Carrera-Aubesart A, Gallo M, Defaus S, Todorovski T, Andreu D. Topoisomeric Membrane-Active Peptides: A Review of the Last Two Decades. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2451. [PMID: 37896211 PMCID: PMC10610229 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102451] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, bioactive peptides have been gaining recognition in various biomedical areas, such as intracellular drug delivery (cell-penetrating peptides, CPPs) or anti-infective action (antimicrobial peptides, AMPs), closely associated to their distinct mode of interaction with biological membranes. Exploiting the interaction of membrane-active peptides with diverse targets (healthy, tumoral, bacterial or parasitic cell membranes) is opening encouraging prospects for peptides in therapeutics. However, ordinary peptides formed by L-amino acids are easily decomposed by proteases in biological fluids. One way to sidestep this limitation is to use topoisomers, namely versions of the peptide made up of D-amino acids in either canonic (enantio) or inverted (retroenantio) sequence. Rearranging peptide sequences in this fashion provides a certain degree of native structure mimicry that, in appropriate contexts, may deliver desirable biological activity while avoiding protease degradation. In this review, we will focus on recent accounts of membrane-active topoisomeric peptides with therapeutic applications as CPP drug delivery vectors, or as antimicrobial and anticancer candidates. We will also discuss the most common modes of interaction of these peptides with their membrane targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Carrera-Aubesart
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
| | - Maria Gallo
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
| | - Sira Defaus
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
| | - Toni Todorovski
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - David Andreu
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (A.C.-A.); (M.G.); (S.D.); (T.T.)
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Gorecki AM, Spencer H, Meloni BP, Anderton RS. The Poly-Arginine Peptide R18D Interferes with the Internalisation of α-Synuclein Pre-Formed Fibrils in STC-1 Enteroendocrine Cells. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2089. [PMID: 37626586 PMCID: PMC10452853 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In Parkinson's disease (PD), gut inflammation is hypothesised to contribute to α-synuclein aggregation, but gastrointestinal α-synuclein expression is poorly characterised. Cationic arginine-rich peptides (CARPs) are an emerging therapeutic option that exerts various neuroprotective effects and may target the transmission of protein aggregates. This study aimed to investigate endogenous α-synuclein expression in enteroendocrine STC-1 cells and the potential of the CARP, R18D (18-mer of D-arginine), to prevent internalisation of pre-formed α-synuclein fibrils (PFFs) in enteroendocrine cells in vitro. Through confocal microscopy, the immunoreactivity of full-length α-synuclein and the serine-129 phosphorylated form (pS129) was investigated in STC-1 (mouse enteroendocrine) cells. Thereafter, STC-1 cells were exposed to PFFs tagged with Alexa-Fluor 488 (PFF-488) for 2 and 24 h and R18D-FITC for 10 min. After confirming the uptake of both PFFs and R18D-FITC through fluorescent microscopy, STC-1 cells were pre-treated with R18D (5 or 10 μM) for 10 min prior to 2 h of PFF-488 exposure. Immunoreactivity for endogenous α-synuclein and pS129 was evident in STC-1 cells, with prominent pS129 staining along cytoplasmic processes and in perinuclear areas. STC-1 cells internalised PFFs, confirmed through co-localisation of PFF-488 and human-specific α-synuclein immunoreactivity. R18D-FITC entered STC-1 cells within 10 min and pre-treatment of STC-1 cells with R18D interfered with PFF uptake. The endogenous presence of α-synuclein in enteroendocrine cells, coupled with their rapid uptake of PFFs, demonstrates a potential for pathogenic spread of α-synuclein aggregates in the gut. R18D is a novel therapeutic approach to reduce the intercellular transmission of α-synuclein pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastazja M. Gorecki
- School of Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia; (H.S.)
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Holly Spencer
- School of Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia; (H.S.)
| | - Bruno P. Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, First Floor, G-Block, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA 6008, Australia
| | - Ryan S. Anderton
- School of Health Sciences, University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia; (H.S.)
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Spencer H, Gorecki A, Foley H, Phillips L, Abonnel MY, Meloni BP, Anderton RS. Poly-Arginine R18 Peptide Inhibits Heat-Induced Lysozyme Protein Aggregation: Implications for a Possible Therapeutic Role in Parkinson’s Disease. APPL BIOCHEM MICRO+ 2023. [DOI: 10.1134/s0003683823010118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
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Tahmasbi F, Madani Neishaboori A, Mardani M, Toloui A, Komlakh K, Azizi Y, Yousefifard M. Efficacy of polyarginine peptides in the treatment of stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e2858. [PMID: 36542540 PMCID: PMC9847609 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disparities exist regarding an efficient treatment for stroke. Polyarginines have shown promising neuroprotective properties based on available published studies. Thus, the present study aims to systemically review and analyze existing evidence regarding polyarginine's administration efficacy in animal stroke models. METHOD Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were systematically searched, in addition to manual search. Inclusion criteria were administrating polyarginine peptides in stroke animal models. Exclusion criteria were previous polyarginine administration, lacking a control group, review articles, and case reports. Data were collected and analyzed using STATA 17.0; a pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), meta-regression, and subgroup analyses were presented. Risk of bias, publication bias, and level of evidence were assessed using SYRCLE's tool, Egger's analysis, and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework, respectively. RESULTS From the 468 searched articles, 11 articles were included. Analyses showed that R18 significantly decreases infarct size (SMD = -0.65; 95% CI: -1.01, -0.29) and brain edema (SMD = -1.90; 95% CI: -3.28, -0.51) and improves neurological outcome (SMD = 0.67; 95% CI: 0.44, 0.91) and functional status (SMD = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.85) in stroke animal models. Moreover, R18D significantly decreases infarct size (SMD = -0.75; 95% CI: -1.17, -0.33) and improves neurological outcome (SMD = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.86) and functional status (SMD = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.54) in stroke models. CONCLUSION Moderate level of evidence demonstrated that both R18 and R18D administration can significantly improve stroke outcomes in animal stroke models. However, considering the limitations, further pre-clinical and clinical studies are warranted to substantiate the neuroprotective efficacy of polyarginines for stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fateme Tahmasbi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mahta Mardani
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirmohammad Toloui
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khalil Komlakh
- Department of Neurosurgery, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yaser Azizi
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Yousefifard
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Assessment of the safety of the cationic arginine-rich peptides (CARPs) poly-arginine-18 (R18 and R18D) in ex vivo models of mast cell degranulation and red blood cell hemolysis. Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 31:101305. [PMID: 35812346 PMCID: PMC9257347 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Our laboratory focuses on the development of novel neuroprotective cationic peptides, such poly-arginine-18 (R18: 18-mer of l-arginine; net charge +18) and its d-enantiomer R18D in stroke and other brain injuries. In the clinical development of R18/R18D, their cationic property raises potential safety concerns on their non-specific effects to induce mast cell degranulation and hemolysis. To address this, we first utilised primary human cultured mast cells (HCMCs) to examine anaphylactoid effects. We also included as controls, the well-characterised neuroprotective TAT-NR2B9c peptide and the widely used heparin reversal peptide, protamine. Degranulation assay based on β-hexosaminidase release demonstrated that R18 and R18D did not induce significant mast cell degranulation in both untreated (naïve) and IgE-sensitised HCMCs in a dose-response study to a maximum peptide concentration of 16 μM. Similarly, TAT-NR2B9c and protamine did not induce significant mast cell degranulation. To examine hemolytic effects, red blood cells (RBCs), were incubated with the peptides at a concentration range of 1–16 μM in the absence or presence of 2% plasma. Measurement of hemoglobin absorbance revealed that only R18 induced a modest, but significant degree of hemolysis at the 16 μM concentration, and only in the absence of plasma. This study addressed the potential safety concern of the application of the cationic neuroprotective peptides, especially, R18D, on anaphylactoid responses and hemolysis. The findings indicate that R18, R18D, TAT-NR2B9c and protamine are unlikely to induce histamine mediated anaphylactoid reactions or RBC hemolysis when administered intravenously to patients. Cationic peptides R18, R18D, TAT-NR2B9c and protamine do not stimulate the degranulation of ex vivo untreated (naïve) and IgE-sensitised primary human cultured mast cells (HCMCs). R18, R18D, TAT-NR2B9c and protamine do not induce significant hemolysis of human red blood cells (RBCs). R18, R18D, TAT-NR2B9c and protamine are unlikely to induce histamine mediated anaphylactoid reactions or hemolysis when administered intravenously to patients.
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Oyeyinka BO, Afolayan AJ. Suitability of Banana and Plantain Fruits in Modulating Neurodegenerative Diseases: Implicating the In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence from Neuroactive Narratives of Constituent Biomolecules. Foods 2022; 11:foods11152263. [PMID: 35954031 PMCID: PMC9367880 DOI: 10.3390/foods11152263] [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: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Active principles in plant-based foods, especially staple fruits, such as bananas and plantains, possess inter-related anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, antioxidative, and neuromodulatory activities. Neurodegenerative diseases affect the functionality of the central and peripheral nervous system, with attendant cognitive deficits being hallmarks of these conditions. The dietary constitution of a wide range of bioactive compounds identified in this review further iterates the significance of the banana and plantain in compromising, halting, or preventing the pathological mechanisms of neurological disorders. The neuroprotective mechanisms of these biomolecules have been identified by using protein expression regulation and specific gene/pathway targeting, such as the nuclear and tumor necrosis factors, extracellular signal-regulated and mitogen-activated protein kinases, activator protein-1, and the glial fibrillary acidic protein. This review establishes the potential double-edged neuro-pharmacological fingerprints of banana and plantain fruits in their traditionally consumed pulp and less utilized peel component for human nutrition.
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Mazuryk J, Puchalska I, Koziński K, Ślusarz MJ, Ruczyński J, Rekowski P, Rogujski P, Płatek R, Wiśniewska MB, Piotrowski A, Janus Ł, Skowron PM, Pikuła M, Sachadyn P, Rodziewicz-Motowidło S, Czupryn A, Mucha P. PTD4 Peptide Increases Neural Viability in an In Vitro Model of Acute Ischemic Stroke. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22116086. [PMID: 34200045 PMCID: PMC8200211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a disturbance in cerebral blood flow caused by brain tissue ischemia and hypoxia. We optimized a multifactorial in vitro model of acute ischemic stroke using rat primary neural cultures. This model was exploited to investigate the pro-viable activity of cell-penetrating peptides: arginine-rich Tat(49–57)-NH2 (R49KKRRQRRR57-amide) and its less basic analogue, PTD4 (Y47ARAAARQARA57-amide). Our model included glucose deprivation, oxidative stress, lactic acidosis, and excitotoxicity. Neurotoxicity of these peptides was excluded below a concentration of 50 μm, and PTD4-induced pro-survival was more pronounced. Circular dichroism spectroscopy and molecular dynamics (MD) calculations proved potential contribution of the peptide conformational properties to neuroprotection: in MD, Tat(49–57)-NH2 adopted a random coil and polyproline type II helical structure, whereas PTD4 adopted a helical structure. In an aqueous environment, the peptides mostly adopted a random coil conformation (PTD4) or a polyproline type II helical (Tat(49–57)-NH2) structure. In 30% TFE, PTD4 showed a tendency to adopt a helical structure. Overall, the pro-viable activity of PTD4 was not correlated with the arginine content but rather with the peptide’s ability to adopt a helical structure in the membrane-mimicking environment, which enhances its cell membrane permeability. PTD4 may act as a leader sequence in novel drugs for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarosław Mazuryk
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.R.); (R.P.); (A.C.)
- Department of Electrode Processes, Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kasprzaka 44/52, 01-224 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (P.M.); Tel.: +48-22-343-2094 (J.M.); +48-58-523-5432 (P.M.)
| | - Izabela Puchalska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (I.P.); (M.J.Ś.); (J.R.); (P.R.); (P.M.S.); (S.R.-M.)
- Institute of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, 80-172 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Kamil Koziński
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (K.K.); (M.B.W.)
| | - Magdalena J. Ślusarz
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (I.P.); (M.J.Ś.); (J.R.); (P.R.); (P.M.S.); (S.R.-M.)
| | - Jarosław Ruczyński
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (I.P.); (M.J.Ś.); (J.R.); (P.R.); (P.M.S.); (S.R.-M.)
| | - Piotr Rekowski
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (I.P.); (M.J.Ś.); (J.R.); (P.R.); (P.M.S.); (S.R.-M.)
| | - Piotr Rogujski
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.R.); (R.P.); (A.C.)
- NeuroRepair Department, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute PAS, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Płatek
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.R.); (R.P.); (A.C.)
- Laboratory for Regenerative Biotechnology, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Marta Barbara Wiśniewska
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland; (K.K.); (M.B.W.)
| | - Arkadiusz Piotrowski
- Department of Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-416 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | | | - Piotr M. Skowron
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (I.P.); (M.J.Ś.); (J.R.); (P.R.); (P.M.S.); (S.R.-M.)
| | - Michał Pikuła
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Embryology, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Paweł Sachadyn
- Laboratory for Regenerative Biotechnology, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Sylwia Rodziewicz-Motowidło
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (I.P.); (M.J.Ś.); (J.R.); (P.R.); (P.M.S.); (S.R.-M.)
| | - Artur Czupryn
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.R.); (R.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Piotr Mucha
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 63, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland; (I.P.); (M.J.Ś.); (J.R.); (P.R.); (P.M.S.); (S.R.-M.)
- Correspondence: (J.M.); (P.M.); Tel.: +48-22-343-2094 (J.M.); +48-58-523-5432 (P.M.)
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Perlikowska R. Whether short peptides are good candidates for future neuroprotective therapeutics? Peptides 2021; 140:170528. [PMID: 33716091 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a broad group of largely debilitating, and ultimately terminal conditions resulting in progressive degeneration of different brain regions. The observed damages are associated with cell death, structural and functional deficits of neurons, or demyelination. The concept of neuroprotection concerns the administration of the agent, which should reverse some of the damage or prevent further adverse changes. A growing body of evidence suggested that among many classes of compounds considered as neuroprotective agents, peptides derived from natural materials or their synthetic analogs are good candidates. They presented a broad spectrum of activities and abilities to act through diverse mechanisms of action. Biologically active peptides have many properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Peptides with pro-survival and neuroprotective activities, associated with inhibition of oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation and are able to improve cell viability or mitochondrial functions, are also promising molecules of particular interest to the pharmaceutical industries. Peptide multiple activities open the way for broad application potential as therapeutic agents or ingredients of health-promoting functional foods. Significantly, synthetic peptides can be remodeled in numerous ways to have desired features, such as increased solubility or biological stability, as well as selectivity towards a specific receptor, and finally better membrane penetration. This review summarized the most common features of major neurodegenerative disorders, their causes, consequences, and reported new neuroprotective drug development approaches. The author focused on the unique perspectives in neuroprotection and provided a concise survey of short peptides proposed as novel therapeutic agents against various neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Perlikowska
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215, Lodz, Poland.
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Milani D, Clark VW, Feindel KW, Blacker DJ, Bynevelt M, Edwards AB, Anderton RS, Knuckey NW, Meloni BP. Comparative Assessment of the Proteolytic Stability and Impact of Poly-Arginine Peptides R18 and R18D on Infarct Growth and Penumbral Tissue Preservation Following Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion in the Sprague Dawley Rat. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1166-1176. [PMID: 33523394 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03251-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Poly-arginine peptides R18 and R18D have previously been demonstrated to be neuroprotective in ischaemic stroke models. Here we examined the proteolytic stability and efficacy of R18 and R18D in reducing infarct core growth and preserving the ischaemic penumbra following middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in the Sprague Dawley rat. R18 (300 or 1000 nmol/kg), R18D (300 nmol/kg) or saline were administered intravenously 10 min after MCAO induced using a filament. Serial perfusion and diffusion-weighted MRI imaging was performed to measure changes in the infarct core and penumbra from time points between 45- and 225-min post-occlusion. Repeated measures analyses of infarct growth and penumbral tissue size were evaluated using generalised linear mixed models (GLMMs). R18D (300 nmol/kg) was most effective in slowing infarct core growth (46.8 mm3 reduction; p < 0.001) and preserving penumbral tissue (21.6% increase; p < 0.001), followed by R18 at the 300 nmol/kg dose (core: 29.5 mm3 reduction; p < 0.001, penumbra: 12.5% increase; p < 0.001). R18 at the 1000 nmol/kg dose had a significant impact in slowing core growth (19.5 mm3 reduction; p = 0.026), but only a modest impact on penumbral preservation (6.9% increase; p = 0.062). The in vitro anti-excitotoxic neuroprotective efficacy of R18D was also demonstrated to be unaffected when preincubated for 1-3 h or overnight, in a cell lysate prepared from dying neurons or with the proteolytic enzyme, plasmin, whereas the neuroprotective efficacy of R18 was significantly reduced after a 2-h incubation. These findings highlight the capacity of poly-arginine peptides to reduce infarct growth and preserve the ischaemic penumbra, and confirm the superior efficacy and proteolytic stability of R18D, which indicates that this peptide is likely to retain its neuroprotective properties when co-administered with alteplase during thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Milani
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Vince W Clark
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Kirk W Feindel
- Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - David J Blacker
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Michael Bynevelt
- Neurological Intervention and Imaging Service of Western Australia, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Adam B Edwards
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Ryan S Anderton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, 6160, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Bruno P Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
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Seckler JM, Lewis SJ. Advances in D-Amino Acids in Neurological Research. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197325. [PMID: 33023061 PMCID: PMC7582301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
D-amino acids have been known to exist in the human brain for nearly 40 years, and they continue to be a field of active study to today. This review article aims to give a concise overview of the recent advances in D-amino acid research as they relate to the brain and neurological disorders. This work has largely been focused on modulation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and its relationship to Alzheimer’s disease and Schizophrenia, but there has been a wealth of novel research which has elucidated a novel role for several D-amino acids in altering brain chemistry in a neuroprotective manner. D-amino acids which have no currently known activity in the brain but which have active derivatives will also be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Seckler
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Stephen J. Lewis
- Department Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
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11
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Meloni BP, Blacker DJ, Mastaglia FL, Knuckey NW. Emerging cytoprotective peptide therapies for stroke. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:887-890. [PMID: 32580598 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1788390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science , Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre , Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia , Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David J Blacker
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science , Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre , Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre , Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Frank L Mastaglia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science , Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre , Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science , Nedlands, Australia.,Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre , Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia , Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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12
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Neuroprotective Cationic Arginine-Rich Peptides (CARPs): An Assessment of Their Clinical Safety. Drug Saf 2020; 43:957-969. [DOI: 10.1007/s40264-020-00962-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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13
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MacDougall G, Anderton RS, Trimble A, Mastaglia FL, Knuckey NW, Meloni BP. Poly-arginine-18 (R18) Confers Neuroprotection through Glutamate Receptor Modulation, Intracellular Calcium Reduction, and Preservation of Mitochondrial Function. Molecules 2020; 25:E2977. [PMID: 32610439 PMCID: PMC7412265 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25132977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted that a novel class of neuroprotective peptide, known as cationic arginine-rich peptides (CARPs), have intrinsic neuroprotective properties and are particularly effective anti-excitotoxic agents. As such, the present study investigated the mechanisms underlying the anti-excitotoxic properties of CARPs, using poly-arginine-18 (R18; 18-mer of arginine) as a representative peptide. Cortical neuronal cultures subjected to glutamic acid excitotoxicity were used to assess the effects of R18 on ionotropic glutamate receptor (iGluR)-mediated intracellular calcium influx, and its ability to reduce neuronal injury from raised intracellular calcium levels after inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum calcium uptake by thapsigargin. The results indicate that R18 significantly reduces calcium influx by suppressing iGluR overactivation, and results in preservation of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and ATP production, and reduced ROS generation. R18 also protected cortical neurons against thapsigargin-induced neurotoxicity, which indicates that the peptide helps maintain neuronal survival when intracellular calcium levels are elevated. Taken together, these findings provide important insight into the mechanisms of action of R18, supporting its potential application as a neuroprotective therapeutic for acute and chronic neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella MacDougall
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (R.S.A.); (A.T.); (F.L.M.); (N.W.K.); (B.P.M.)
- Institute for Health Research, School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia
| | - Ryan S. Anderton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (R.S.A.); (A.T.); (F.L.M.); (N.W.K.); (B.P.M.)
- Institute for Health Research, School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Amy Trimble
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (R.S.A.); (A.T.); (F.L.M.); (N.W.K.); (B.P.M.)
- Institute for Health Research, School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia
| | - Frank L. Mastaglia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (R.S.A.); (A.T.); (F.L.M.); (N.W.K.); (B.P.M.)
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Neville W. Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (R.S.A.); (A.T.); (F.L.M.); (N.W.K.); (B.P.M.)
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA 6008, Australia
| | - Bruno P. Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia; (R.S.A.); (A.T.); (F.L.M.); (N.W.K.); (B.P.M.)
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA 6008, Australia
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14
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Meloni BP, Chen Y, Harrison KA, Nashed JY, Blacker DJ, South SM, Anderton RS, Mastaglia FL, Winterborn A, Knuckey NW, Cook DJ. Poly-Arginine Peptide-18 (R18) Reduces Brain Injury and Improves Functional Outcomes in a Nonhuman Primate Stroke Model. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:627-634. [PMID: 31833045 PMCID: PMC7283416 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00809-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Poly-arginine peptide-18 (R18) is neuroprotective in different rodent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) stroke models. In this study, we examined whether R18 treatment could reduce ischemic brain injury and improve functional outcome in a nonhuman primate (NHP) stroke model. A stroke was induced in male cynomolgus macaques by MCAO distal to the orbitofrontal branch of the MCA through a right pterional craniotomy, using a 5-mm titanium aneurysm clip for 90 min. R18 (1000 nmol/kg) or saline vehicle was administered intravenously 60 min after the onset of MCAO. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; perfusion-weighted imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging, or T2-weighted imaging) of the brain was performed 15 min, 24 h, and 28 days post-MCAO, and neurological outcome was assessed using the NHP stroke scale (NHPSS). Experimental endpoint was 28 days post-MCAO, treatments were randomized, and all procedures were performed blinded to treatment status. R18 treatment reduced infarct lesion volume by up to 65.2% and 69.7% at 24 h and 28 days poststroke, respectively. Based on NHPSS scores, R18-treated animals displayed reduced functional deficits. This study confirms the effectiveness of R18 in reducing the severity of ischemic brain injury and improving functional outcomes after stroke in a NHP model, and provides further support for its clinical development as a stroke neuroprotective therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Yining Chen
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathleen A Harrison
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joseph Y Nashed
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - David J Blacker
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurology, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Samantha M South
- Office of Research Enterprise, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ryan S Anderton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Heath Sciences, and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Australia
| | - Frank L Mastaglia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Winterborn
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Douglas J Cook
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Queen's University Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
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15
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Meloni BP, Mastaglia FL, Knuckey NW. Cationic Arginine-Rich Peptides (CARPs): A Novel Class of Neuroprotective Agents With a Multimodal Mechanism of Action. Front Neurol 2020; 11:108. [PMID: 32158425 PMCID: PMC7052017 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
There are virtually no clinically available neuroprotective drugs for the treatment of acute and chronic neurological disorders, hence there is an urgent need for the development of new neuroprotective molecules. Cationic arginine-rich peptides (CARPs) are an expanding and relatively novel class of compounds, which possess intrinsic neuroprotective properties. Intriguingly, CARPs possess a combination of biological properties unprecedented for a neuroprotective agent including the ability to traverse cell membranes and enter the CNS, antagonize calcium influx, target mitochondria, stabilize proteins, inhibit proteolytic enzymes, induce pro-survival signaling, scavenge toxic molecules, and reduce oxidative stress as well as, having a range of anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer actions. CARPs have also been used as carrier molecules for the delivery of other putative neuroprotective agents across the blood-brain barrier and blood-spinal cord barrier. However, there is increasing evidence that the neuroprotective efficacy of many, if not all these other agents delivered using a cationic arginine-rich cell-penetrating peptide (CCPPs) carrier (e.g., TAT) may actually be mediated largely by the properties of the carrier molecule, with overall efficacy further enhanced according to the amino acid composition of the cargo peptide, in particular its arginine content. Therefore, in reviewing the neuroprotective mechanisms of action of CARPs we also consider studies using CCPPs fused to a putative neuroprotective peptide. We review the history of CARPs in neuroprotection and discuss in detail the intrinsic biological properties that may contribute to their cytoprotective effects and their usefulness as a broad-acting class of neuroprotective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Meloni
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Frank L Mastaglia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia.,Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
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16
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Liddle L, Reinders R, South S, Blacker D, Knuckey N, Colbourne F, Meloni B. Poly-arginine-18 peptides do not exacerbate bleeding, or improve functional outcomes following collagenase-induced intracerebral hemorrhage in the rat. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224870. [PMID: 31697775 PMCID: PMC6837498 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cationic arginine-rich peptides (CARPs) have demonstrated neuroprotective and/or behavioural efficacy in ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and traumatic brain injury models. Therefore, in this study we investigated the safety and neuroprotective efficacy of the CARPs poly-arginine-18 (R18; 18-mer of arginine) and its D-enantiomer R18D given in the acute bleeding phase in an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) model. Methods One hundred and fifty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats received collagenase-induced ICH. Study 1 examined various doses of R18D (30, 100, 300, or 1000 nmol/kg) or R18 (100, 300, 1000 nmol/kg) administered intravenously 30 minutes post-collagenase injection on hemorrhage volume 24 hours after ICH. Study 2 examined R18D (single intravenous dose) or R18 (single intravenous dose, plus 6 daily intraperitoneal doses) at 300 or 1000 nmol/kg commencing 30 minutes post-collagenase injection on behavioural outcomes (Montoya staircase test, and horizontal ladder test) in the chronic post-ICH period. A histological assessment of tissue loss was assessed using a Nissl stain at 28 days after ICH. Results When administered during ongoing bleeding, neither R18 or R18D exacerbated hematoma volume or worsened functional deficits. Lesion volume assessment at 28 days post-ICH was not reduced by the peptides; however, animals treated with the lower R18D 300 nmol/kg dose, but not with the higher 1000 nmol/kg dose, demonstrated a statistically increased lesion size compared to saline treated animals. Conclusion Overall, both R18 and R18D appeared to be safe when administered during a period of ongoing bleeding following ICH. Neither peptide appears to have any statistically significant effect in reducing lesion volume or improving functional recovery after ICH. Additional studies are required to further assess dose efficacy and safety in pre-clinical ICH studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lane Liddle
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ryan Reinders
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Samantha South
- Office of Research Enterprise, The University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David Blacker
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Neville Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Frederick Colbourne
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Bruno Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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17
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In vitro cellular uptake and neuroprotective efficacy of poly-arginine-18 (R18) and poly-ornithine-18 (O18) peptides: critical role of arginine guanidinium head groups for neuroprotection. Mol Cell Biochem 2019; 464:27-38. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-019-03646-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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18
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Wen J, Wang W, Lee KJ, Choi BK, Harradine P, Salituro GM, Hittle L. Quantitation of Super Basic Peptides in Biological Matrices by a Generic Perfluoropentanoic Acid-Based Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Method. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2019; 30:1779-1789. [PMID: 31250320 DOI: 10.1007/s13361-019-02257-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Peptides represent a promising modality for the design of novel therapeutics that can potentially modulate traditionally non-druggable targets. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are two large families that are being explored extensively as drug delivery vehicles, imaging reagents, or therapeutic treatments for various diseases. Many CPPs and AMPs are cationic among which a significant portion is extremely basic and hydrophilic (e.g., nona-arginine). Despite their attractive therapeutic potential, it remains challenging to directly analyze and quantify these super cationic peptides from biological matrices due to their poor chromatographic behavior and MS response. Herein, we describe a generic method that combines solid phase extraction and LC-MS/MS for analysis of these peptides. As demonstrated, using a dozen strongly basic peptides, low μM concentration of perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA) in the mobile phase enabled excellent compound chromatographic retention, thus avoiding co-elution with solvent front ion suppressants. PFPeA also had a charge reduction effect that allowed the selection of parent/ion fragment pairs in the higher m/z region to further reduce potential low molecular weight interferences. When the method was coupled to the optimized sample extraction process, we routinely achieved low digit ng/ml sensitivity for peptides in plasma/tissue. The method allowed an efficient evaluation of plasma stability of CPPs/AMPs without fluorescence derivatization or other tagging methods. Importantly, using the widely studied HIV-TAT CPP as an example, the method enabled us to directly assess its pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution in preclinical animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhong Wen
- Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, 07065, USA.
| | - Weixun Wang
- Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, 07065, USA
| | - Keun-Joong Lee
- Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, 07065, USA
| | - Bernard K Choi
- Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, 07065, USA
| | - Paul Harradine
- Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, 07065, USA
| | - Gino M Salituro
- Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, 07065, USA
| | - Lucinda Hittle
- Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Drug Metabolism, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, 07065, USA
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19
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Early-life N-arachidonoyl-dopamine exposure increases antioxidant capacity of the brain tissues and reduces functional deficits after neonatal hypoxia in rats. Int J Dev Neurosci 2019; 78:7-18. [PMID: 31369794 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatal hypoxia-ischemia is one of the most common causes of perinatal brain injury and subsequent neurological disorders in children. The aim of this work was to evaluate the potential antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of N-arachidonoyl-dopamine (NADA) in the model of acute neonatal hypoxia (ANH) in rat pups. Male and female Wistar rats were exposed to a hypoxic condition (8% oxygen for 120 min) at postnatal day 2 (P2). Transcription factor HIF1-α and glutathione peroxidases GPx2 and GPx4 gene expression was increased in rat brains in the hypoxic group compared to control 1.5 h but not 4 days after ANH. There were no post-hypoxic changes in reduced (GSH) and oxidised (GSSG) glutathione levels in the brain of rat pups 1.5 h and 4 d after hypoxia. Hypoxic rats displayed retarded performance in the righting reflex and the negative geotaxis tests. ANH resulted in increased ambulation in Open field test and impaired retention in the Barnes maze task under stressful conditions as compared with the control group. Treatment with NADA significantly attenuated the delayed development of sensorimotor reflexes and stress-evoked disruption of memory retention in hypoxic rats but had no effect on the hypoxia-induced hyperactivity. In rats exposed to hypoxia, treatment with NADA decreased GPx2 gene expression and increased GSH/GSSG ratio in whole brains 1.5 h after ANH. These results suggest that the long-lasting beneficial effects of NADA on hypoxia-induced neurobehavioural deficits are mediated, at least in part, by its antioxidant properties.
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20
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MacDougall G, Anderton RS, Mastaglia FL, Knuckey NW, Meloni BP. Proteomic analysis of cortical neuronal cultures treated with poly-arginine peptide-18 (R18) and exposed to glutamic acid excitotoxicity. Mol Brain 2019; 12:66. [PMID: 31315638 PMCID: PMC6637488 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-019-0486-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Poly-arginine peptide-18 (R18) has recently emerged as a highly effective neuroprotective agent in experimental stroke models, and is particularly efficacious in protecting cortical neurons against glutamic acid excitotoxicity. While we have previously demonstrated that R18 can reduce excitotoxicity-induced neuronal calcium influx, other molecular events associated with R18 neuroprotection are yet to investigated. Therefore, in this study we were particularly interested in protein expression changes in R18 treated neurons subjected to excitotoxicity. Proteomic analysis was used to compare protein expression patterns in primary cortical neuronal cultures subjected to: (i) R18-treatment alone (R18); (ii) glutamic acid excitotoxic injury (Glut); (iii) R18-treatment and glutamic acid injury (R18 + Glut); (iv) no treatment (Cont). Whole cell lysates were harvested 24 h post-injury and subjected to quantitative proteomic analysis (iTRAQ), coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and subsequent bioinformatic analysis of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Relative to control cultures, R18, Glut, and R18 + Glut treatment resulted in the detection of 5, 95 and 14 DEPs respectively. Compared to Glut alone, R18 + Glut revealed 98 DEPs, including 73 proteins whose expression was also altered by treatment with Glut and/or R18 alone, as well as 25 other uniquely regulated proteins. R18 treatment reversed the up- or down-regulation of all 73 Glut-associated DEPs, which included proteins involved in mitochondrial integrity, ATP generation, mRNA processing and protein translation. Analysis of protein-protein interactions of the 73 DEPs showed they were primarily associated with mitochondrial respiration, proteasome activity and protein synthesis, transmembrane trafficking, axonal growth and neuronal differentiation, and carbohydrate metabolism. Identified protein pathways associated with proteostasis and energy metabolism, and with pathways involved in neurodegeneration. Collectively, the findings indicate that R18 neuroprotection following excitotoxicity is associated with preservation of neuronal protein profiles, and differential protein expression that assists in maintaining mitochondrial function and energy production, protein homeostasis, and membrane trafficking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella MacDougall
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Ground Floor, RR Block, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia.
- School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Ryan S Anderton
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Ground Floor, RR Block, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
- School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Frank L Mastaglia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Ground Floor, RR Block, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Ground Floor, RR Block, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Bruno P Meloni
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QEII Medical Centre, Ground Floor, RR Block, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
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21
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Meloni BP, South SM, Gill DA, Marriott AL, Déziel RA, Jacques A, Blacker DJ, Knuckey NW. Poly-Arginine Peptides R18 and R18D Improve Functional Outcomes After Endothelin-1-Induced Stroke in the Sprague Dawley Rat. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2019; 78:426-435. [DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlz014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia (BPM, DJB, NWK)
| | - Samantha M South
- Office of Research Enterprise, The University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Angela Jacques
- Sir Charles Gairdner Group, Department of Research, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Heath Sciences, Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Australia
| | - David J Blacker
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia (BPM, DJB, NWK)
- Department of Neurology, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Neville W Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, QEII Medical Centre, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia (BPM, DJB, NWK)
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22
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Chiu LS, Anderton RS, Cross JL, Clark VW, Knuckey NW, Meloni BP. Poly-arginine Peptide R18D Reduces Neuroinflammation and Functional Deficits Following Traumatic Brain Injury in the Long-Evans Rat. Int J Pept Res Ther 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-018-09799-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Edwards AB, Anderton RS, Knuckey NW, Meloni BP. Assessment of therapeutic window for poly-arginine-18D (R18D) in a P7 rat model of perinatal hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy. J Neurosci Res 2018; 96:1816-1826. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Adam B. Edwards
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
- School of Health Sciences and Institute for Health Research; The University of Notre Dame Australia; Fremantle Western Australia Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital; QEII Medical Centre; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
| | - Ryan S. Anderton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
- School of Health Sciences and Institute for Health Research; The University of Notre Dame Australia; Fremantle Western Australia Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders; The University of Western Australia; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
| | - Neville W. Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital; QEII Medical Centre; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders; The University of Western Australia; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
| | - Bruno P. Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, QEII Medical Centre; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital; QEII Medical Centre; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders; The University of Western Australia; Nedlands Western Australia Australia
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Perinatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy and Neuroprotective Peptide Therapies: A Case for Cationic Arginine-Rich Peptides (CARPs). Brain Sci 2018; 8:brainsci8080147. [PMID: 30087289 PMCID: PMC6119922 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8080147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in neonates, with survivors suffering significant neurological sequelae including cerebral palsy, epilepsy, intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorders. While hypothermia is used clinically to reduce neurological injury following HIE, it is only used for term infants (>36 weeks gestation) in tertiary hospitals and improves outcomes in only 30% of patients. For these reasons, a more effective and easily administrable pharmacological therapeutic agent, that can be used in combination with hypothermia or alone when hypothermia cannot be applied, is urgently needed to treat pre-term (≤36 weeks gestation) and term infants suffering HIE. Several recent studies have demonstrated that cationic arginine-rich peptides (CARPs), which include many cell-penetrating peptides [CPPs; e.g., transactivator of transcription (TAT) and poly-arginine-9 (R9; 9-mer of arginine)], possess intrinsic neuroprotective properties. For example, we have demonstrated that poly-arginine-18 (R18; 18-mer of arginine) and its D-enantiomer (R18D) are neuroprotective in vitro following neuronal excitotoxicity, and in vivo following perinatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI). In this paper, we review studies that have used CARPs and other peptides, including putative neuroprotective peptides fused to TAT, in animal models of perinatal HIE. We critically evaluate the evidence that supports our hypothesis that CARP neuroprotection is mediated by peptide arginine content and positive charge and that CARPs represent a novel potential therapeutic for HIE.
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Milani D, Bakeberg MC, Cross JL, Clark VW, Anderton RS, Blacker DJ, Knuckey NW, Meloni BP. Comparison of neuroprotective efficacy of poly-arginine R18 and R18D (D-enantiomer) peptides following permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion in the Wistar rat and in vitro toxicity studies. PLoS One 2018. [PMID: 29513757 PMCID: PMC5841795 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0193884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that arginine-rich and poly-arginine peptides possess potent neuroprotective properties, with poly-arginine peptide R18 identified as being highly effective at reducing infarct volume following middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in the Sprague Dawley rat. Since peptides synthesised using D-isoform amino acids have greater stability than L-isoform peptides due to increased resistance to proteolytic degradation, they represent potentially more effective peptide therapeutics. Therefore we compared the neuroprotective efficacy of R18 and its D-enantiomer R18D following permanent MCAO in the Wistar rat. Furthermore, as increased peptide stability may also increase peptide toxicity, we examined the effects of R18 and R18D on cultured cortical neurons, astrocytes, brain endothelial cells (bEND.3), and embryonic kidney cells (HEK293) following a 10-minute or 24-hour peptide exposure duration. The in vivo studies demonstrated that R18D resulted in a greater reduction in mean infarct volume compared to R18 (33%, p = 0.004 vs 12%, p = 0.27) after intravenous administration at 300 nmol/kg 30 minutes after MCAO. Both R18D and R18 reduced cerebral hemisphere swelling to a comparable degree (27%, p = 0.03 and 30%, p = 0.02), and improved neurological assessment scores (1.5, p = 0.02 and 2, p = 0.058 vs 3 for vehicle). No abnormal histological findings specific to peptide treatments were observed in hematoxylin and eosin stained sections of kidney, liver, spleen, lung and heart. In vitro studies demonstrated that R18 and R18D were most toxic to neurons, followed by astrocytes, HEK293 and bEND.3 cells, but only at high concentrations and/or following 24-hour exposure. These findings further highlight the neuroprotective properties of poly-arginine peptides, and indicate that R18D at the dose examined is more potent than R18 in Wistar rats, and justify continued investigation of the R18 peptide as a novel neuroprotective agent for stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Milani
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Megan C. Bakeberg
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jane L. Cross
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Vince W. Clark
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Ryan S. Anderton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Heath Sciences and Institute for Health Research, The University Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - David J. Blacker
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Neville W. Knuckey
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Bruno P. Meloni
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, Nedlands, Australia, Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
- * E-mail:
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