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Gaumond SI, Abdin R, Costoya J, Schally AV, Jimenez JJ. Exploring the role of GHRH antagonist MIA-602 in overcoming Doxorubicin-resistance in acute myeloid leukemia. Oncotarget 2024; 15:248-254. [PMID: 38588464 PMCID: PMC11001269 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28579] [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] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by the rapid proliferation of mutagenic hematopoietic progenitors in the bone marrow. Conventional therapies include chemotherapy and bone marrow stem cell transplantation; however, they are often associated with poor prognosis. Notably, growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) receptor antagonist MIA-602 has been shown to impede the growth of various human cancer cell lines, including AML. This investigation examined the impact of MIA-602 as monotherapy and in combination with Doxorubicin on three Doxorubicin-resistant AML cell lines, KG-1A, U-937, and K-562. The in vitro results revealed a significant reduction in cell viability for all treated wild-type cells. Doxorubicin-resistant clones were similarly susceptible to MIA-602 as the wild-type counterpart. Our in vivo experiment of xenografted nude mice with Doxorubicin-resistant K-562 revealed a reduction in tumor volume with MIA-602 treatment compared to control. Our study demonstrates that these three AML cell lines, and their Doxorubicin-resistant clones, are susceptible to GHRH antagonist MIA-602.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simonetta I Gaumond
- Dr. Philip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Rama Abdin
- Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Joel Costoya
- Dr. Philip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | | | - Joaquin J Jimenez
- Dr. Philip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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2
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Fakir S, Barabutis N. Protective Activities of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Antagonists against Toxin-Induced Endothelial Injury. ENDOCRINES 2024; 5:116-123. [PMID: 38895505 PMCID: PMC11185841 DOI: 10.3390/endocrines5010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
GHRH regulates the secretion of GH from the anterior pituitary gland, previously associated with cancer progression and inflammation. An emerging body of evidence suggests that GHRHAnt support endothelial barrier function, but the mechanisms mediating these events are not completely understood. In the present study, it is demonstrated that the GHRHAnt JV-1-36 counteracts barrier dysfunction due to LPS or LTA treatment in HUVECs, utilizing the Dextran-FITC assay. Moreover, it is shown in BPAECs that these bacterial toxins increase ROS generation, and that this effect is counteracted by JV-1-36, which reinstates the redox balance. The possible involvement of NEK2 in the beneficial activities of GHRHAnt in IFN-γ- and LPS-triggered hyperpermeability was also assessed, since that kinase is involved in inflammatory responses. NEK2 was increased in the inflamed cells, and JV-1-36 counteracted those endothelial events. Our data support the beneficial effects of GHRHAnt in toxin-induced endothelial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saikat Fakir
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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3
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Fakir S, Barabutis N. Growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonists counteract interferon-γ - induced barrier dysfunction in bovine and human endothelial cells. Cytokine 2024; 173:156416. [PMID: 37952313 PMCID: PMC10842054 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156416] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
GHRH regulates the secretion of GH from the anterior pituitary gland. An emerging body of evidence suggests that the activities of that neuropeptide are not limited to the GH/IGF-I axis, but they expand towards the mediation of inflammatory processes. GHRHAnt were developed to oppose the activities of GHRH in malignancies, and have been associated with strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects in a diverse variety of tissues, including the lungs. In the present study we report that GHRHAnt oppose interferon-γ - induced paracellular hyperpermeability and reactive oxygen species generation in bovine and human pulmonary endothelial cells; and suppress interferon-γ - triggered STAT3, cofilin and ERK1/2 activation. Our observations substantiate previous findings on the protective effects of GHRHAnt in endothelial inflammation and barrier break-down.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saikat Fakir
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
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4
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Barabutis N, Fakir S. Growth hormone-releasing hormone beyond cancer. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2024; 51:40-41. [PMID: 37750473 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Saikat Fakir
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
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5
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Recinella L, Libero ML, Veschi S, Piro A, Marconi GD, Diomede F, Chiavaroli A, Orlando G, Ferrante C, Florio R, Lamolinara A, Cai R, Sha W, Schally AV, Salvatori R, Brunetti L, Leone S. Effects of GHRH Deficiency and GHRH Antagonism on Emotional Disorders in Mice. Cells 2023; 12:2615. [PMID: 37998350 PMCID: PMC10670114 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222615] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone (GH)-releasing hormone (GHRH) has been suggested to play a crucial role in brain function. We aimed to further investigate the effects of a novel GHRH antagonist of the Miami (MIA) series, MIA-602, on emotional disorders and explore the relationships between the endocrine system and mood disorders. In this context, the effects induced by MIA-602 were also analyzed in comparison to vehicle-treated mice with GH deficiency due to generalized ablation of the GHRH gene (GHRH knock out (GHRHKO)). We show that the chronic subcutaneous administration of MIA-602 to wild type (+/+) mice, as well as generalized ablation of the GHRH gene, is associated with anxiolytic and antidepressant behavior. Moreover, immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses suggested an evident activation of Nrf2, HO1, and NQO1 in the prefrontal cortex of both +/+ mice treated with MIA-602 (+/+ MIA-602) and homozygous GHRHKO (-/- control) animals. Finally, we also found significantly decreased COX-2, iNOS, NFkB, and TNF-α gene expressions, as well as increased P-AKT and AKT levels in +/+ MIA-602 and -/- control animals compared to +/+ mice treated with vehicle (+/+ control). We hypothesize that the generalized ablation of the GHRH gene leads to a dysregulation of neural pathways, which is mimicked by GHRH antagonist treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Maria Loreta Libero
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14014 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Serena Veschi
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Anna Piro
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Guya Diletta Marconi
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (G.D.M.); (F.D.)
| | - Francesca Diomede
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (G.D.M.); (F.D.)
| | - Annalisa Chiavaroli
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Giustino Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Claudio Ferrante
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Rosalba Florio
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Alessia Lamolinara
- Department of Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA; (R.C.); (W.S.); (A.V.S.)
- Division of Medical/Oncology and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Wei Sha
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA; (R.C.); (W.S.); (A.V.S.)
- Division of Medical/Oncology and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Andrew V. Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA; (R.C.); (W.S.); (A.V.S.)
- Division of Medical/Oncology and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Roberto Salvatori
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
| | - Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; (L.R.); (S.V.); (A.P.); (A.C.); (G.O.); (C.F.); (R.F.); (S.L.)
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6
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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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Granato G, Gesmundo I, Pedrolli F, Kasarla R, Begani L, Banfi D, Bruno S, Lopatina T, Brizzi MF, Cai R, Sha W, Ghigo E, Schally AV, Granata R. Growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonist MIA-602 inhibits inflammation induced by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and bacterial lipopolysaccharide synergism in macrophages and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1231363. [PMID: 37649486 PMCID: PMC10462983 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1231363] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is characterized by an excessive inflammatory response and macrophage hyperactivation, leading, in severe cases, to alveolar epithelial injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Recent studies have reported that SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein interacts with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to boost inflammatory responses in vitro, in macrophages and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and in vivo. The hypothalamic hormone growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), in addition to promoting pituitary GH release, exerts many peripheral functions, acting as a growth factor in both malignant and non-malignant cells. GHRH antagonists, in turn, display potent antitumor effects and antinflammatory activities in different cell types, including lung and endothelial cells. However, to date, the antinflammatory role of GHRH antagonists in COVID-19 remains unexplored. Here, we examined the ability of GHRH antagonist MIA-602 to reduce inflammation in human THP-1-derived macrophages and PBMCs stimulated with S protein and LPS combination. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis revealed the presence of GHRH receptor and its splice variant SV1 in both THP-1 cells and PBMCs. Exposure of THP-1 cells to S protein and LPS combination increased the mRNA levels and protein secretion of TNF-α and IL-1β, as well as IL-8 and MCP-1 gene expression, an effect hampered by MIA-602. Similarly, MIA-602 hindered TNF-α and IL-1β secretion in PBMCs and reduced MCP-1 mRNA levels. Mechanistically, MIA-602 blunted the S protein and LPS-induced activation of inflammatory pathways in THP-1 cells, such as NF-κB, STAT3, MAPK ERK1/2 and JNK. MIA-602 also attenuated oxidative stress in PBMCs, by decreasing ROS production, iNOS and COX-2 protein levels, and MMP9 activity. Finally, MIA-602 prevented the effect of S protein and LPS synergism on NF-кB nuclear translocation and activity. Overall, these findings demonstrate a novel antinflammatory role for GHRH antagonists of MIA class and suggest their potential development for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as COVID-19 and related comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Granato
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Iacopo Gesmundo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Pedrolli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Ramesh Kasarla
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Begani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Dana Banfi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Stefania Bruno
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Tatiana Lopatina
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Renzhi Cai
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
- South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Wei Sha
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Ezio Ghigo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrew V. Schally
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
- South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, United States
- Department of Medicine, Divisions of Medical/Oncology and Endocrinology, and the Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Riccarda Granata
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Barabutis N, Siejka A, Akhter MS. Growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonists counteract hydrogen peroxide - induced paracellular hyperpermeability in endothelial cells. Growth Horm IGF Res 2023; 69-70:101534. [PMID: 37210756 PMCID: PMC10247445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2023.101534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) is a hypothalamic peptide which regulates the release of Growth Hormone from the anterior pituitary gland, and has been involved in inflammatory processes. On the other hand, GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) were developed to counteract those effects. Herein we demonstrate for the first time that GHRHAnt can suppress hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) - induced paracellular hyperpermeability in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells. Increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and barrier dysfunction have been associated with the development of potentially lethal disorders, including sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Our study supports the protective actions of GHRHAnt in the impaired endothelium, and suggests that those compounds represent an exciting therapeutic possibility towards lung inflammatory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
| | - Agnieszka Siejka
- Department of Clinical Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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Barabutis N, Kubra KT, Akhter MS. Growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonists protect against hydrochloric acid-induced endothelial injury in vitro. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 99:104113. [PMID: 36940786 PMCID: PMC10111240 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) regulates the synthesis of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland, and it is involved in inflammatory responses. On the other hand, GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) exhibit the opposite effects, resulting in endothelial barrier enhancement. Exposure to hydrochloric acid (HCL) is associated with acute and chronic lung injury. In this study, we investigate the effects of GHRHAnt in HCL-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction, utilizing commercially available bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAEC). Cell viability was measured by utilizing 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol2-yl)- 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Moreover, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran was used to assess barrier function. Our observations suggest that GHRHAnt exert protective effects against HCL-induced endothelial breakdown, since those peptides counteract HCL-triggered paracellular hyperpermeability. Based on those findings, we propose that GHRHAnt represent a new therapeutic approach towards HCL-induced endothelial injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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Akhter MS, Kubra KT, Barabutis N. Protective effects of GHRH antagonists against hydrogen peroxide-induced lung endothelial barrier disruption. Endocrine 2023; 79:587-592. [PMID: 36261700 PMCID: PMC9581763 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03226-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) is a hypothalamic hormone, which regulates growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary gland. GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) are anticancer agents, which also exert robust anti-inflammatory activities in malignancies. GHRHAnt exhibit anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in vascular endothelial cells, indicating their potential use against disorders related to barrier dysfunction (e.g. sepsis). Herein, we aim to investigate the effects of GHRHAnt against lung endothelial hyperpermeability. METHODS The in vitro effects of GHRHAnt in H2O2-induced endothelial barrier dysfunction were investigated in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (BPAEC). Electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) was utilized to measure transendothelial resistance, an indicator of barrier function. RESULTS Our results demonstrate that GHRHAnt protect against H2O2-induced endothelial barrier disruption via P53 and cofilin modulation. Both proteins are crucial modulators of vascular integrity. Moreover, GHRHAnt prevent H2O2 - induced decrease in transendothelial resistance. CONCLUSIONS GHRHAnt represent a promising therapeutic intervention towards diseases related to lung endothelial hyperpermeability, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome - related or not to COVID-19 - and sepsis. Targeted medicine for those potentially lethal disorders does not exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA.
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11
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Dulce RA, Kanashiro-Takeuchi RM, Takeuchi LM, Salerno AG, Wanschel ACBA, Kulandavelu S, Balkan W, Zuttion MSSR, Cai R, Schally AV, Hare JM. Synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone agonist ameliorates the myocardial pathophysiology characteristic of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 118:3586-3601. [PMID: 35704032 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvac098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS To test the hypothesis that the activation of the growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) receptor signalling pathway within the myocardium both prevents and reverses diastolic dysfunction and pathophysiologic features consistent with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Impaired myocardial relaxation, fibrosis, and ventricular stiffness, among other multi-organ morbidities, characterize the phenotype underlying the HFpEF syndrome. Despite the rapidly increasing prevalence of HFpEF, few effective therapies have emerged. Synthetic agonists of the GHRH receptors reduce myocardial fibrosis, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and improve performance in animal models of ischaemic cardiomyopathy, independently of the growth hormone axis. METHODS AND RESULTS CD1 mice received 4- or 8-week continuous infusion of angiotensin-II (Ang-II) to generate a phenotype with several features consistent with HFpEF. Mice were administered either vehicle or a potent synthetic agonist of GHRH, MR-356 for 4-weeks beginning concurrently or 4-weeks following the initiation of Ang-II infusion. Ang-II-treated animals exhibited diastolic dysfunction, ventricular hypertrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and normal ejection fraction. Cardiomyocytes isolated from these animals exhibited incomplete relaxation, depressed contractile responses, altered myofibrillar protein phosphorylation, and disturbed calcium handling mechanisms (ex vivo). MR-356 both prevented and reversed the development of the pathological phenotype in vivo and ex vivo. Activation of the GHRH receptors increased cAMP and cGMP in cardiomyocytes isolated from control animals but only cAMP in cardiac fibroblasts, suggesting that GHRH-A exert differential effects on cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that the GHRH receptor signalling pathway(s) represents a new molecular target to counteract dysfunctional cardiomyocyte relaxation by targeting myofilament phosphorylation and fibrosis. Accordingly, activation of GHRH receptors with potent, synthetic GHRH agonists may provide a novel therapeutic approach to management of the myocardial alterations associated with the HFpEF syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul A Dulce
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Rosemeire M Kanashiro-Takeuchi
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Lauro M Takeuchi
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Alessandro G Salerno
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Amarylis C B A Wanschel
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Shathiyah Kulandavelu
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Wayne Balkan
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Marilia S S R Zuttion
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, FL 33125, USA
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.,Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, FL 33125, USA.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Joshua M Hare
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1501 N.W. 10th Avenue, Room 908, Miami, FL 33136, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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12
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Ren HL, Cai R, Xue R, Zhang Y, Xu Q, Zhang X, Cai R, Sha W, Schally AV, Zhou MS. Growth hormone-releasing hormone agonist attenuates vascular calcification in diabetic db/db mice. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1102525. [PMID: 36742073 PMCID: PMC9889365 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1102525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vascular calcification (VC) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. VC increases mortality of all-causes. VC is one of most common cardiovascular complications in type II diabetes. So far, no therapy has been proven to be effective in treatment of clinical VC. The present study investigated the therapeutic effects of MR409, an agonistic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH-A), on VC in diabetic db/db mice. Method and result Diabetic mice were injected with MR409 subcutaneously every day for 8 weeks. Long-term treatment with MR409 improved serum lipid profile and endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine, and reduced vascular structural injury in diabetic mice without affecting serum growth hormone level. Echocardiography showed that calcium plaques present in heart valve of diabetic mice disappeared in diabetic mice after treatment with MR409. MR409 inhibited vascular calcium deposition associated with a marked reduction in the expressions of osteogenic-regulated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and transcription osteogenic marker gene Runx2 in diabetic mice. MR409 also inhibited vascular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and upregulated the expressions of anti-calcifying protein Klotho in diabetic mice. Discussion Our results demonstrate that GHRH-A MR409 can effectively attenuate VC and heart valve calcification, and protect against endothelial dysfunction and vascular injury in diabetic mice without significantly affecting pituitary-growth hormone axis. The mechanisms may involve upregulation of anti-calcifying protein Klotho and reduction in vascular ROS and the expression of redox sensitive osteogenic genes Runx2 and ALP. GHRH-A may represent a new pharmacological strategy for treatment of VC and diabetics associated cardiovascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Lin Ren
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Ruiping Cai
- Science and Research Center, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China,Department of Physiology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Ruize Xue
- Science and Research Center, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China,Department of Physiology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Yaoxia Zhang
- Science and Research Center, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China,Department of Physiology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Science and Research Center, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China,Department of Physiology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China
| | - Xianyang Zhang
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Miami, FL, United States
| | - RenZhi Cai
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Miami, FL, United States,Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Wei Sha
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Andrew V. Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Miami, FL, United States,Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center, South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Miami, FL, United States,Divisions of Medical/Oncology and Endocrinology, Department of Pathology, Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Ming-Sheng Zhou
- Science and Research Center, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China,Department of Physiology, Shenyang Medical College, Shenyang, China,*Correspondence: Ming-Sheng Zhou,
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13
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Barabutis N, Akhter MS, Kubra KT, Jackson K. Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone in Endothelial Inflammation. Endocrinology 2022; 164:6887354. [PMID: 36503995 PMCID: PMC9923806 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of hypothalamic hormones propelled exciting advances in pharmacotherapy and improved life quality worldwide. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) is a crucial element in homeostasis maintenance, and regulates the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland. Accumulating evidence suggests that this neuropeptide can also promote malignancies, as well as inflammation. Our review is focused on the role of that 44 - amino acid peptide (GHRH) and its antagonists in inflammation and vascular function, summarizing recent findings in the corresponding field. Preclinical studies demonstrate the protective role of GHRH antagonists against endothelial barrier dysfunction, suggesting that the development of those peptides may lead to new therapies against pathologies related to vascular remodeling (eg, sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome). Targeted therapies for those diseases do not exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- Correspondence: Nektarios Barabutis, MSc, PhD, School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Dr, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
| | | | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
| | - Keith Jackson
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
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14
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Kubra KT, Akhter MS, Apperley K, Barabutis N. Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Antagonist JV-1-36 Suppresses Reactive Oxygen Species Generation in A549 Lung Cancer Cells. ENDOCRINES 2022; 3:813-820. [PMID: 36540765 PMCID: PMC9762825 DOI: 10.3390/endocrines3040067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and its receptors are expressed in a variety of human cancers, and have been involved in malignancies. GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) were developed to suppress tumor progression and metastasis. Previous studies demonstrate the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer progression. Herein, we investigate the effect of a commercially available GHRH antagonist, namely JV-1-36, in the redox status of the A549 human cancer cell line. Our results suggest that this peptide significantly reduces ROS production in those cells in a time-dependent manner and counteracts H2O2-induced ROS. Our study supports the anti-oxidative effects of JV-1-36 and contributes in our knowledge towards the in vitro effects of GHRHAnt in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad S. Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Apperley
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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15
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Antagonist of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Potentiates the Antitumor Effect of Pemetrexed and Cisplatin in Pleural Mesothelioma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911248. [PMID: 36232554 PMCID: PMC9569772 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911248] [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: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is an aggressive cancer with poor prognosis and no effective therapies, mainly caused by exposure to asbestos. Antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) display strong antitumor effects in many experimental cancers, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Here, we aimed to determine whether GHRH antagonist MIA-690 potentiates the antitumor effect of cisplatin and pemetrexed in PM. In vitro, MIA-690, in combination with cisplatin and pemetrexed, synergistically reduced cell viability, restrained cell proliferation and enhanced apoptosis, compared with drugs alone. In vivo, the same combination resulted in a strong growth inhibition of MSTO-211H xenografts, decreased tumor cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. Mechanistically, MIA-690, particularly with chemotherapeutic drugs, inhibited proliferative and oncogenic pathways, such as MAPK ERK1/2 and cMyc, and downregulated cyclin D1 and B1 mRNAs. Inflammatory pathways such as NF-kB and STAT3 were also reduced, as well as oxidative, angiogenic and tumorigenic markers (iNOS, COX-2, MMP2, MMP9 and HMGB1) and growth factors (VEGF and IGF-1). Overall, these findings strongly suggest that GHRH antagonists of MIA class, such as MIA-690, could increase the efficacy of standard therapy in PM.
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16
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Fang F, Goldstein JL, Shi X, Liang G, Brown MS. Unexpected role for IGF-1 in starvation: Maintenance of blood glucose. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2208855119. [PMID: 35914126 PMCID: PMC9371671 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2208855119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild-type (WT) mice maintain viable levels of blood glucose even when adipose stores are depleted by 6 d of 60% calorie restriction followed by a 23-h fast (hereafter designated as "starved" mice). Survival depends on ghrelin, an octanoylated peptide hormone. Mice that lack ghrelin suffer lethal hypoglycemia when subjected to the same starvation regimen. Ghrelin is known to stimulate secretion of growth hormone (GH), which in turn stimulates secretion of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor-1). In the current study, we found that starved ghrelin-deficient mice had a 90% reduction in plasma IGF-1 when compared with starved WT mice. Injection of IGF-1 in starved ghrelin-deficient mice caused a twofold increase in glucose production and raised blood glucose to levels seen in starved WT mice. Increased glucose production was accompanied by increases in plasma glycerol, fatty acids and ketone bodies, and hepatic triglycerides. All of these increases were abolished when the mice were treated with atglistatin, an inhibitor of adipose tissue triglyceride lipase. We conclude that IGF-1 stimulates adipose tissue lipolysis in starved mice and that this lipolysis supplies energy and substrates that restore hepatic gluconeogenesis. This action of IGF-1 in starved mice is in contrast to its known action in inhibiting adipose tissue lipase in fed mice. Surprisingly, the ghrelin-dependent maintenance of plasma IGF-1 in starved mice was not mediated by GH. Direct injection of GH into starved ghrelin-deficient mice failed to increase plasma IGF-1. These data call attention to an unsuspected role of IGF-1 in the adaptation to starvation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Fang
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Joseph L. Goldstein
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Xuanming Shi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Guosheng Liang
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
| | - Michael S. Brown
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390
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17
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Lath A, Santal AR, Kaur N, Kumari P, Singh NP. Anti-cancer peptides: their current trends in the development of peptide-based therapy and anti-tumor drugs. Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev 2022; 39:45-84. [PMID: 35699384 DOI: 10.1080/02648725.2022.2082157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Human cancer remains a cause of high mortality throughout the world. The conventional methods and therapies currently employed for treatment are followed by moderate-to-severe side effects. They have not generated curative results due to the ineffectiveness of treatments. Besides, the associated high costs, technical requirements, and cytotoxicity further characterize their limitations. Due to relatively higher presidencies, bioactive peptides with anti-cancer attributes have recently become treatment choices within the therapeutic arsenal. The peptides act as potential anti-cancer agents explicitly targeting tumor cells while being less toxic to normal cells. The anti-cancer peptides are isolated from various natural sources, exhibit high selectivity and high penetration efficiency, and could be quickly restructured. The therapeutic benefits of compatible anti-cancer peptides have contributed to the significant expansion of cancer treatment; albeit, the mechanisms by which bioactive peptides inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells remain unclear. This review will provide a framework for assessing anti-cancer peptides' structural and functional aspects. It shall provide appropriate information on their mode of action to support and strengthen efforts to improve cancer prevention. The article will mention the therapeutic health benefits of anti-cancer peptides. Their importance in clinical studies is elaborated for reducing cancer incidences and developing sustainable treatment models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Lath
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Anita Rani Santal
- Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
| | - Nameet Kaur
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Poonam Kumari
- Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility, CIL and UCIM, Punjab University, Chandigarh, Inida
| | - Nater Pal Singh
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, India
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18
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Wang S, Liang R, Liu H. Phoenixin-20 ameliorates brain infarction by promoting microglia M2 polarization in an ischemic stroke model. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:1517-1526. [PMID: 35334042 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-00950-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. The transformation of microglia from the classic M1 to the alternative M2 state has been shown to have both deleterious and immunosuppressive roles in neuroinflammation. Microglial polarization toward the M2 phase is currently proposed to be a beneficial phenotype in brain ischemic injury. Phoenixin-20 is a newly identified pleiotropic neuropeptide expressed abundantly in different brain regions. In this study, we found that administration of Phoenixin-20 in ischemic stroke middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mice significantly reduced the brain infarction area but improved the neurological deficit score. Gene expression analysis showed Phoenixin-20 treatment inhibited pro-inflammatory M1 phase microglial markers: a cluster of differentiation molecule 11b (CD11b), cluster of differentiation molecule 86 (CD86), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and increased anti-inflammatory M2 phase markers (found in Inflammatory Zone 1 (FIZZ1), Arginase 1 (Arg-1), Chitinase 3-like 3 (YM1), and interleukin-10 (IL-10)) in the infarcted brain. We further investigated the molecular mechanism of Phoenixin-20 in cultured microglia. We found that treatment with it induced signature genes expression in microglial M2 state, including Fizz1, Arg-1, YM1, and IL-10, indicating the promotion of microglial polarization toward the M2 state. Furthermore, we found that treatment with the M2 phase cytokine interleukin 4 (IL-4) induced the expression of microglial G Protein-Coupled Receptor (GPR173), which is the receptor of Phoenixin-20. Silencing of the microglial signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) partially blocked the effect of IL-4 on GPR173, suggesting that STAT6 is the upstream regulator of GPR173. Finally, we showed that the silencing of GPR173 completely abolished the effect of Phoenixin-20 in microglia, indicating the dependency of its regulatory role on GPR173. Collectively, our study demonstrates that Phoenixin-20 has a protective role in the acute stroke model. Our cell-based study demonstrates Phoenixin-20 promotes microglia toward M2 transformation, which could be the mechanism of its neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Wang
- Department of Neurology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, No. 16, Xinhua West Road, Yunhe District, Hebei, Cangzhou, 061014, China
| | - Ruobing Liang
- Department of Neurology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, No. 16, Xinhua West Road, Yunhe District, Hebei, Cangzhou, 061014, China
| | - Hongmei Liu
- Department of Neurology, Cangzhou Central Hospital, No. 16, Xinhua West Road, Yunhe District, Hebei, Cangzhou, 061014, China.
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19
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Abstract
Endothelial barrier dysfunction is associated with sepsis and lung injury, both direct and indirect. We discuss the involvement of unfolded protein response in the protective effects of heat shock protein 90 inhibitors and growth hormone releasing hormone antagonists in the vascular barrier, to reveal new possibilities in acute respiratory distress syndrome treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
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20
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Szabo Z, Juhasz E, Schally AV, Dezso B, Huga S, Hernadi Z, Halmos G, Kiss C. Expression of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone and Its Receptor Splice Variants in Primary Human Endometrial Carcinomas: Novel Therapeutic Approaches. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27092671. [PMID: 35566020 PMCID: PMC9101386 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) inhibit the growth of various tumors, including endometrial carcinomas (EC). However, tumoral receptors that mediate the antiproliferative effects of GHRH antagonists in human ECs have not been fully characterized. In this study, we investigated the expression of mRNA for GHRH and splice variants (SVs) of GHRH receptors (GHRH-R) in 39 human ECs and in 7 normal endometrial tissue samples using RT-PCR. Primers designed for the PCR amplification of mRNA for the full length GHRH-R and SVs were utilized. The PCR products were sequenced, and their specificity was confirmed. Nine ECs cancers (23%) expressed mRNA for SV1, three (7.7%) showed SV2 and eight (20.5%) revealed mRNA for SV4. The presence of SVs for GHRH-Rs could not be detected in any of the normal endometrial tissue specimens. The presence of specific, high affinity GHRH-Rs was also demonstrated in EC specimens using radioligand binding studies. Twenty-four of the investigated thirty-nine tumor samples (61.5%) and three of the seven corresponding normal endometrial tissues (42.9%) expressed mRNA for GHRH ligand. Our findings suggest the possible existence of an autocrine loop in EC based on GHRH and its tumoral SV receptors. The antiproliferative effects of GHRH antagonists on EC are likely to be exerted in part by the local SVs and GHRH system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsuzsanna Szabo
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.S.); (G.H.)
| | - Eva Juhasz
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Andrew V. Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Miami, FL 33125, USA;
- Department of Pathology, Department of Medicine, Divisions of Hematology-Oncology and Endocrinology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33101, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Balazs Dezso
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Sandor Huga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.H.); (Z.H.)
| | - Zoltan Hernadi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (S.H.); (Z.H.)
| | - Gabor Halmos
- Department of Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (Z.S.); (G.H.)
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Miami, FL 33125, USA;
| | - Csongor Kiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-52-452-747; Fax: +36-52-255-893
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21
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Cai R, Zhang X, Wang H, Cui T, Halmos G, Sha W, He J, Popovics P, Vidaurre I, Zhang C, Mirsaeidi M, Schally AV. Synthesis of potent antagonists of receptors for growth hormone-releasing hormone with antitumor and anti-inflammatory activity. Peptides 2022; 150:170716. [PMID: 34952135 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The syntheses and biological evaluation of GHRH antagonists of AVR series with high anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities are described. Compared to our previously reported GHRH antagonist 602 of MIAMI series, AVR analogs contain additional modifications at positions 0, 6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 20, 21, 29 and 30, which induce greater antitumor activities. Five of nineteen tested AVR analogs presented binding affinities to the membrane GHRH receptors on human pituitary, 2-4-fold better than MIA-602. The antineoplastic properties of these analogs were evaluated in vitro using proliferation assays and in vivo in nude mice xenografted with various human cancer cell lines including lung (NSCLC-ADC HCC827 and NSCLC H460), gastric (NCI-N87), pancreatic (PANC-1 and CFPAC-1), colorectal (HT-29), breast (MX-1), glioblastoma (U87), ovarian (SK-OV-3 and OVCAR-3) and prostatic (PC3) cancers. In vitro AVR analogs showed inhibition of cell viability equal to or greater than MIA-602. After subcutaneous administration at 5 μg/day doses, some AVR antagonists demonstrated better inhibition of tumor growth in nude mice bearing various human cancers, with analog AVR-353 inducing stronger suppression than MIA-602 in lung, gastric, pancreatic and colorectal cancers and AVR-352 in ovarian cancers and glioblastoma. Both antagonists induced greater inhibition of GH release than MIA-602 in vitro in cultured rat pituitary cells and in vivo in rats. AVR-352 also demonstrated stronger anti-inflammatory effects in lung granulomas from mice with lung inflammation. Our studies demonstrate the merit of further investigation of AVR GHRH antagonists and support their potential use for clinical therapy of human cancers and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzhi Cai
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States
| | - Xianyang Zhang
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Haibo Wang
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Tengjiao Cui
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; Department of Medicine, Divisions of Medical/Oncology and Endocrinology, and the Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Gabor Halmos
- Department of Biopharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Wei Sha
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Jinlin He
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States
| | - Petra Popovics
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States
| | - Irving Vidaurre
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States
| | - Chongxu Zhang
- Section of Pulmonary Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States
| | - Mehdi Mirsaeidi
- Section of Pulmonary Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States; Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; South Florida VA Foundation for Research and Education, Veterans Affairs Medical Center Miami, FL 33125, United States; Department of Medicine, Divisions of Medical/Oncology and Endocrinology, and the Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States; Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States.
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22
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Recinella L, Chiavaroli A, Veschi S, Di Valerio V, Lattanzio R, Orlando G, Ferrante C, Gesmundo I, Granata R, Cai R, Sha W, Schally AV, Brunetti L, Leone S. Antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone MIA-690 attenuates the progression and inhibits growth of colorectal cancer in mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 146:112554. [PMID: 34923341 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an aggressive tumor in which new treatment options deliver negative results on cure rates and long-term survival. The anticancer effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonists have been reported in various experimental tumors, but their activity in CRC is unknown. In the present study, we demonstrated that chronic treatment with GHRH antagonist of MIAMI class, MIA-690, promoted survival and gradually blunted tumor progression in experimentally induced colitis-associated cancer in mice, paralleled by reduced inflammation in colon tissue. In particular, MIA-690 improved disease activity index score, and reduced loss of weight and mortality, by improving the survival rates, compared with vehicle-treated group. MIA-690 was also found to reduce various inflammatory and oxidative markers, such as serotonin, prostaglandin (PG)E2 and 8-iso-PGF2α levels, as well as COX-2, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-6 and NF-kB gene expression. Moreover, MIA-690 inhibited the protein expression of c-Myc, P-AKT and Bcl-2 and upregulated p53 protein expression. In conclusion, we showed that MIA-690 suppresses CRC progression and growth by reducing inflammatory and oxidative markers and modulating apoptotic and oncogenic pathways. Further investigations are required for translating these findings into the clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Annalisa Chiavaroli
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Serena Veschi
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Valentina Di Valerio
- Department of Medicine and Ageing Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Rossano Lattanzio
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy; Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Giustino Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Claudio Ferrante
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Iacopo Gesmundo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy.
| | - Riccarda Granata
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy.
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Wei Sha
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
| | - Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
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23
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Akhter MS, Kubra KT, Uddin MA, Jois S, Barabutis N. An antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone protects against LPS-induced increase of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid protein concentration. Inflamm Res 2022; 71:183-185. [PMID: 34993559 PMCID: PMC8736306 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-021-01531-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) is a neuropeptide regulating the release of Growth Hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland, and acts as a growth factor in a diverse variety of tissues. GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) have been developed to counteract those events, and the beneficial effects of those peptides toward homeostasis have been associated with anti-inflammatory activities. Our lab is interested in delineating the mechanisms governing endothelial barrier function. Our goal is to establish new grounds on the development of efficient countermeasures against Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which has been associated with thousands of deaths worldwide due to COVID-19. Herein we demonstrate in vivo that GHRHAnt suppresses LPS-induced increase in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) protein concentration, thus protecting the lungs against edema and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad A Uddin
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Seetharama Jois
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA.
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24
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Recinella L, Chiavaroli A, Orlando G, Ferrante C, Veschi S, Cama A, Marconi GD, Diomede F, Gesmundo I, Granata R, Cai R, Sha W, Schally AV, Brunetti L, Leone S. Effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor antagonist MIA-602 in mice with emotional disorders: a potential treatment for PTSD. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:7465-7474. [PMID: 34331008 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01228-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety and depression have been suggested to increase the risk for post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD). A link between all these mental illnesses, inflammation and oxidative stress is also well established. Recent behavior studies by our group clearly demonstrate a powerful anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of a novel growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonist of MIAMI class, MIA-690, probably related to modulatory effects on the inflammatory and oxidative status. In the present work we investigated the potential beneficial effects of MIA-602, another recently developed GHRH antagonist, in mood disorders, as anxiety and depression, and the possible brain pathways involved in its protective activity, in adult mice. MIA-602 exhibited antinflammatory and antioxidant effects in ex vivo and in vivo experimental models, inducing anxiolytic and antidepressant-like behavior in mice subcutaneously treated for 4 weeks. The beneficial effect of MIA-602 on inflammatory and oxidative status and synaptogenesis resulting in anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects could be related by increases of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling pathways in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These results strongly suggest that GHRH analogs should be tried clinically for the treatment of mood disorders including PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Annalisa Chiavaroli
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giustino Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Claudio Ferrante
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Serena Veschi
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cama
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Guya Diletta Marconi
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesca Diomede
- Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Iacopo Gesmundo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin and Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Riccarda Granata
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin and Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Wei Sha
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
| | - Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
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25
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Agonistic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone promotes neurofunctional recovery and neural regeneration in ischemic stroke. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2109600118. [PMID: 34782465 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2109600118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke can induce neurogenesis. However, most stroke-generated newborn neurons cannot survive. It has been shown that MR-409, a potent synthetic agonistic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), can protect against some life-threatening pathological conditions by promoting cell proliferation and survival. The present study shows that long-term treatment with MR-409 (5 or 10 μg/mouse/d) by subcutaneous (s.c.) injection significantly reduces the mortality, ischemic insult, and hippocampal atrophy, and improves neurological functional recovery in mice operated on for transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). Besides, MR-409 can stimulate endogenous neurogenesis and improve the tMCAO-induced loss of neuroplasticity. MR-409 also enhances the proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of neural stem cells treated with oxygen and glucose deprivation-reperfusion. The neuroprotective effects of MR-409 are closely related to the activation of AKT/CREB and BDNF/TrkB pathways. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that GHRH agonist MR-409 has remarkable neuroprotective effects through enhancing endogenous neurogenesis in cerebral ischemic mice.
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26
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Akhter MS, Barabutis N. Suppression of reactive oxygen species in endothelial cells by an antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2021; 35:e22879. [PMID: 34369038 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) is a hypothalamic hormone, which regulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland. The effects of GHRH extend beyond the GH-insulin-like growth factor I axis, and that neuropeptide has been involved in the potentiation of several malignancies and other inflammatory disorders. The development of GHRH antagonists (GHRHAnt) delivers an exciting possibility to counteract the pathogenesis of the GHRH-related effects in human pathophysiology, especially when considered that GHRHAnt support endothelial barrier integrity. Those GHRHAnt-mediated effects are exerted at least in part due to the suppression of major inflammatory pathways, and the modulation of major cytoskeletal components. In the present study, we measured the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells, human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells, and human lung microvascular endothelial cells exposed to GHRH or a commercially available GHRHAnt. Our findings reveal the antioxidative effects of GHRHAnt in all three cell lines, which express GHRH receptors. The redox status of NIH/3T3 cells, which do not produce GHRH receptors, was not significantly affected by GHRH or GHRHAnt. Hence, the application of GHRHAnt in pathologies related to increased ROS production should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, Louisiana, USA
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27
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Gesmundo I, Granato G, Fuentes-Fayos AC, Alvarez CV, Dieguez C, Zatelli MC, Congiusta N, Banfi D, Prencipe N, Leone S, Brunetti L, Castaño JP, Luque RM, Cai R, Sha W, Ghigo E, Schally AV, Granata R. Antagonists of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Inhibit the Growth of Pituitary Adenoma Cells by Hampering Oncogenic Pathways and Promoting Apoptotic Signaling. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13163950. [PMID: 34439107 PMCID: PMC8393969 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13163950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Many studies have demonstrated that the antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) exert inhibitory activities in a variety of experimental cancers; however, their potential antitumor role in pituitary adenomas (PAs) remains largely unknown. Here, we show that GHRH antagonists of Miami (MIA) class, MIA-602 and MIA-690, are able to reduce the growth and promote cell death in hormone-secreting PA cell lines, through the inhibition of mechanisms implicated in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. MIA-602 and MIA-690 also decreased the viability of tumor cells derived from human pituitary tumors. Overall, these findings suggest that GHRH antagonists may represent new therapeutic tools for the treatment of PAs, both alone or in combination with standard pharmacological treatments. Abstract Pituitary adenomas (PAs) are intracranial tumors, often associated with excessive hormonal secretion and severe comorbidities. Some patients are resistant to medical therapies; therefore, novel treatment options are needed. Antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) exert potent anticancer effects, and early GHRH antagonists were found to inhibit GHRH-induced secretion of pituitary GH in vitro and in vivo. However, the antitumor role of GHRH antagonists in PAs is largely unknown. Here, we show that the GHRH antagonists of MIAMI class, MIA-602 and MIA-690, inhibited cell viability and growth and promoted apoptosis in GH/prolactin-secreting GH3 PA cells transfected with human GHRH receptor (GH3-GHRHR), and in adrenocorticotropic hormone ACTH-secreting AtT20 PA cells. GHRH antagonists also reduced the expression of proteins involved in tumorigenesis and cancer progression, upregulated proapoptotic molecules, and lowered GHRH receptor levels. The combination of MIA-690 with temozolomide synergistically blunted the viability of GH3-GHRHR and AtT20 cells. Moreover, MIA-690 reduced both basal and GHRH-induced secretion of GH and intracellular cAMP levels. Finally, GHRH antagonists inhibited cell viability in human primary GH- and ACTH-PA cell cultures. Overall, our results suggest that GHRH antagonists, either alone or in combination with pharmacological treatments, may be considered for further development as therapy for PAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iacopo Gesmundo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (I.G.); (G.G.); (N.C.); (D.B.); (N.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Giuseppina Granato
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (I.G.); (G.G.); (N.C.); (D.B.); (N.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Antonio C. Fuentes-Fayos
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba and Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (A.C.F.-F.); (J.P.C.); (R.M.L.)
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara V. Alvarez
- Centro de Investigaciones Médicas (CIMUS) e Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias, University of Santiago de Compostela and Complexo Hospitalario Universitario of Santiago de Compostela, 14004 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (C.V.A.); (C.D.)
| | - Carlos Dieguez
- Centro de Investigaciones Médicas (CIMUS) e Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias, University of Santiago de Compostela and Complexo Hospitalario Universitario of Santiago de Compostela, 14004 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (C.V.A.); (C.D.)
| | - Maria Chiara Zatelli
- Section of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 15706 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Noemi Congiusta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (I.G.); (G.G.); (N.C.); (D.B.); (N.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Dana Banfi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (I.G.); (G.G.); (N.C.); (D.B.); (N.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Nunzia Prencipe
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (I.G.); (G.G.); (N.C.); (D.B.); (N.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.L.); (L.B.)
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d’Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (S.L.); (L.B.)
| | - Justo P. Castaño
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba and Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (A.C.F.-F.); (J.P.C.); (R.M.L.)
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl M. Luque
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba and Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (A.C.F.-F.); (J.P.C.); (R.M.L.)
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (R.C.); (W.S.); (A.V.S.)
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Wei Sha
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (R.C.); (W.S.); (A.V.S.)
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Ezio Ghigo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (I.G.); (G.G.); (N.C.); (D.B.); (N.P.); (E.G.)
| | - Andrew V. Schally
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (R.C.); (W.S.); (A.V.S.)
- Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Riccarda Granata
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Science, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (I.G.); (G.G.); (N.C.); (D.B.); (N.P.); (E.G.)
- Correspondence:
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28
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Recinella L, Chiavaroli A, Orlando G, Ferrante C, Gesmundo I, Granata R, Cai R, Sha W, Schally AV, Brunetti L, Leone S. Growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonistic analog MIA-690 stimulates food intake in mice. Peptides 2021; 142:170582. [PMID: 34051291 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In addition to its metabolic and endocrine effects, growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) was found to modulate feeding behavior in mammals. However, the role of recently synthetized GHRH antagonist MIA-690 and MR-409, a GHRH agonist, on feeding regulation remains to be evaluated. We investigated the effects of chronic subcutaneous administration of MIA-690 and MR-409 on feeding behavior and energy metabolism, in mice. Compared to vehicle, MIA-690 increased food intake and body weight, while MR-409 had no effect. Both analogs did not modify locomotor activity, as well as subcutaneous, visceral and brown adipose tissue (BAT) mass. A significant increase of hypothalamic agouti-related peptide (AgRP) gene expression and norepinephrine (NE) levels, along with a reduction of serotonin (5-HT) levels were found after MIA-690 treatment. MIA-690 was also found able to decrease gene expression of leptin in visceral adipose tissue. By contrast, MR-409 had no effect on the investigated markers. Concluding, chronic peripheral administration of MIA-690 could play an orexigenic role, paralleled by an increase in body weight. The stimulation of feeding could be mediated, albeit partially, by elevation of AgRP gene expression and NE levels and decreased 5-HT levels in the hypothalamus, along with reduced leptin gene expression, in the visceral adipose tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
| | | | - Giustino Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
| | - Claudio Ferrante
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
| | - Iacopo Gesmundo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin and Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin, 10126, Italy.
| | - Riccarda Granata
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin and Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin, 10126, Italy.
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125, United States; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL33136 and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States.
| | - Wei Sha
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125, United States; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL33136 and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States.
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125, United States; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, and Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL33136 and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States.
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
| | - Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
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Cen LP, Ng TK, Liang JJ, Xu C, Zhuang X, Liu YF, Chen SL, Xu Y, Yang Q, Yuan XL, Qin YJ, Chan SO, Chen H, Zhang M, Schally AV, Pang CP. Agonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone enhances retinal ganglion cell protection induced by macrophages after optic nerve injury. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e1920834118. [PMID: 34244423 PMCID: PMC8285901 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920834118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Optic neuropathies are leading causes of irreversible visual impairment and blindness, currently affecting more than 100 million people worldwide. Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies attributed to progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). We have previously demonstrated an increase in survival of RGCs by the activation of macrophages, whereas the inhibition of macrophages was involved in the alleviation on endotoxin-induced inflammation by antagonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Herein, we hypothesized that GHRH receptor (GHRH-R) signaling could be involved in the survival of RGCs mediated by inflammation. We found the expression of GHRH-R in RGCs of adult rat retina. After optic nerve crush, subcutaneous application of GHRH agonist MR-409 or antagonist MIA-602 promoted the survival of RGCs. Both the GHRH agonist and antagonist increased the phosphorylation of Akt in the retina, but only agonist MR-409 promoted microglia activation in the retina. The antagonist MIA-602 reduced significantly the expression of inflammation-related genes Il1b, Il6, and Tnf Moreover, agonist MR-409 further enhanced the promotion of RGC survival by lens injury or zymosan-induced macrophage activation, whereas antagonist MIA-602 attenuated the enhancement in RGC survival. Our findings reveal the protective effect of agonistic analogs of GHRH on RGCs in rats after optic nerve injury and its additive effect to macrophage activation, indicating a therapeutic potential of GHRH agonists for the protection of RGCs against optic neuropathies especially in glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ping Cen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Tsz Kin Ng
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jia-Jian Liang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Ciyan Xu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Xi Zhuang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Yu-Fen Liu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Shao-Lang Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Yanxuan Xu
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Qichen Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiang-Ling Yuan
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
- Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Yong Jie Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong General Hospital and Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, 510080 Guangzhou, China
| | - Sun On Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Haoyu Chen
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Mingzhi Zhang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136;
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136
- Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Joint Shantou International Eye Center of Shantou University and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shantou University Medical College, 515041 Shantou, China;
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Zhang C, Tian R, Dreifus EM, Hashemi Shahraki A, Holt G, Cai R, Griswold A, Bejarano P, Jackson R, V Schally A, Mirsaeidi M. Activity of the growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonist MIA602 and its underlying mechanisms of action in sarcoidosis-like granuloma. Clin Transl Immunology 2021; 10:e1310. [PMID: 34257968 PMCID: PMC8256670 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) is a potent stimulator of growth hormone (GH) secretion from the pituitary gland. Although GHRH is essential for the growth of immune cells, the regulatory effects of its antagonist in granulomatous disease remain unknown. METHODS Here, we report expression of GHRH receptor (R) in human tissue with sarcoidosis granuloma and demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effects of MIA602 (a GHRH antagonist) in two in vitro human granuloma models and an in vivo granuloma model using different methods including ELISA, immunohistochemistry, RNA-seq analysis and flow cytometry. RESULTS MIA602 decreases the levels of IL-2, IL-2R, IL-7, IL-12, IL-17A and TNF-α in an in vitro granuloma model. Further, we show that the anti-inflammatory effect of MIA602 appears to be mediated by a reduction in CD45+CD68+ cells in granulomatous tissue and upregulation in PD-1 expression in macrophages. Analysis of the expression of proteins involved in the mitochondrial stage of apoptosis showed that MIA602 increases the levels of caspase-3, BCL-xL/BAK dimer and MCl-1/Bak dimer in the granuloma. These findings indicate that MIA602 may not induce apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Our findings further suggest that GHRH-R is potentially a clinical target for the treatment of granulomatous disease and that MIA602 may be used as a novel therapeutic agent for sarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongxu Zhang
- Section of PulmonaryMiami VA Healthcare SystemMiamiFLUSA
| | - Runxia Tian
- Section of PulmonaryMiami VA Healthcare SystemMiamiFLUSA
| | | | | | - Gregory Holt
- Section of PulmonaryMiami VA Healthcare SystemMiamiFLUSA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical CareUniversity of MiamiMiamiFLUSA
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Section of PulmonaryMiami VA Healthcare SystemMiamiFLUSA
| | - Anthony Griswold
- School of MedicineJohn P. Hussman Institute for Human GenomicsUniversity of MiamiMiamiFLUSA
| | | | - Robert Jackson
- Section of PulmonaryMiami VA Healthcare SystemMiamiFLUSA
- School of MedicineUniversity of MiamiMiamiFLUSA
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Polypeptide and Cancer InstituteVeterans Affairs Medical CenterMiamiFLUSA
- Department of PathologyUniversity of Miami Miller School of MedicineMiamiFLUSA
| | - Mehdi Mirsaeidi
- Section of PulmonaryMiami VA Healthcare SystemMiamiFLUSA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical CareUniversity of MiamiMiamiFLUSA
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31
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Xiang P, Jing W, Lin Y, Liu Q, Shen J, Hu X, Chen J, Cai R, Hare JM, Zhu W, Schally AV, Yu H. Improvement of cardiac and systemic function in old mice by agonist of growth hormone-releasing hormone. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:8197-8207. [PMID: 34224586 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Age-related diseases such as cardiovascular diseases portend disability, increase health expenditures, and cause late-life mortality. Synthetic agonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) exhibit several favorable effects on heart function and remodeling. Here we assessed whether GHRH agonist MR409 can modulate heart function and systemic parameters in old mice. Starting at the age of 15 months, mice were injected subcutaneously with MR409 (10 µg/day, n = 8) or vehicle (n = 7) daily for 6 months. Mice treated with MR409 showed improvements in exercise activity, cardiac function, survival rate, immune function, and hair growth in comparison with the controls. More stem cell colonies were grown out of the bone marrow recovered from the MR409-treated mice. Mitochondrial functions of cardiomyocytes (CMs) from the MR409-treated mice were also significantly improved with more mitochondrial fusion. Fewer β-gal positive cells were observed in endothelial cells after 10 passages with MR409. In Doxorubicin-treated H9C2 cardiomyocytes, cell senescence marker p21 and reactive oxygen species were significantly reduced after cultured with MR409. MR409 also improved cellular ATP production and oxygen consumption rate in Doxorubicin-treated H9C2 cells. Mitochondrial protein OPA1 long isoform was significantly increased after treatment with MR409. The effects of MR409 were mediated by GHRH receptor and protein kinase A (PKA). In short, GHRH agonist MR409 reversed the aging-associated changes with respect of heart function, mobility, hair growth, cellular energy production, and senescence biomarkers. The improvement of heart function may be related to a better mitochondrial functions through GHRH receptor/cAMP/PKA/OPA1 signaling pathway and relieved cardiac inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Xiang
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wangwei Jing
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinuo Lin
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jian Shen
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinyang Hu
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jinghai Chen
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA.,Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Joshua M Hare
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Wei Zhu
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA.,Endocrine, Polypeptide and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Hong Yu
- Cardiovascular Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Growth hormone-releasing hormone agonists ameliorate chronic kidney disease-induced heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2019835118. [PMID: 33468654 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2019835118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapies for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are lacking. Growth hormone-releasing hormone agonists (GHRH-As) have salutary effects in ischemic and nonischemic heart failure animal models. Accordingly, we hypothesized that GHRH-A treatment ameliorates chronic kidney disease (CKD)-induced HFpEF in a large-animal model. Female Yorkshire pigs (n = 16) underwent 5/6 nephrectomy via renal artery embolization and 12 wk later were randomized to receive daily subcutaneous injections of GHRH-A (MR-409; n = 8; 30 µg/kg) or placebo (n = 8) for 4 to 6 wk. Renal and cardiac structure and function were serially assessed postembolization. Animals with 5/6 nephrectomy exhibited CKD (elevated blood urea nitrogen [BUN] and creatinine) and faithfully recapitulated the hemodynamic features of HFpEF. HFpEF was demonstrated at 12 wk by maintenance of ejection fraction associated with increased left ventricular mass, relative wall thickness, end-diastolic pressure (EDP), end-diastolic pressure/end-diastolic volume (EDP/EDV) ratio, and tau, the time constant of isovolumic diastolic relaxation. After 4 to 6 wk of treatment, the GHRH-A group exhibited normalization of EDP (P = 0.03), reduced EDP/EDV ratio (P = 0.018), and a reduction in myocardial pro-brain natriuretic peptide protein abundance. GHRH-A increased cardiomyocyte [Ca2+] transient amplitude (P = 0.009). Improvement of the diastolic function was also evidenced by increased abundance of titin isoforms and their ratio (P = 0.0022). GHRH-A exerted a beneficial effect on diastolic function in a CKD large-animal model as demonstrated by improving hemodynamic, structural, and molecular characteristics of HFpEF. These findings have important therapeutic implications for the HFpEF syndrome.
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33
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Barabutis N. Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone in Endothelial Barrier Function. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2021; 32:338-340. [PMID: 33771415 PMCID: PMC8102361 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2021.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) is the integral regulator of the growth hormone (GH)-insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) axis. It exerts mitogenic effects in a plethora of progressive cancers. Recent evidence suggests the emerging role of that 44-amino acid (aa) neuropeptide in lung endothelial barrier function (EBF), which will be discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
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34
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Shirian FI, Ghorbani M, Khamseh ME, Imani M, Panahi M, Alimohammadi A, Nourbakhsh M, Salimi V, Tavakoli-Yaraki M. Up-regulation of sex-determining region Y-box 9 (SOX9) in growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas. BMC Endocr Disord 2021; 21:50. [PMID: 33736633 PMCID: PMC7971953 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-021-00720-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pituitary adenomas are benign brain tumors that cause considerable morbidity and neurological symptoms. SOX9 as a regulatory transcriptional mediator affects normal and tumor cell growth with an undefined role in pituitary adenomas pathogenesis. Thus, in the present study, the expression pattern of SOX9 in GH-secreting pituitary tumors and normal pituitary tissues is investigated. METHODS The SOX9 gene expression level was evaluated in 60 pituitary tissues including different types of GH-secreting adenomas and normal pituitary tissues through Real-Time PCR. The protein level of SOX9 was assessed using immunohistochemistry. The correlations of SOX9 gene and protein expression level with the patient's clinical and pathological features were considered. RESULTS The SOX9 over-expression was detected in GH-secreting adenomas tumor tissues compared to normal pituitary tissues which were accompanied by overexpression of SOX9 protein in tumor tissues. The over-expression of SOX9 had a significant impact on GH-secreting adenomas tumor incidence with the odds ratio of 8.4 and the diagnostic value of SOX9 was considerable. The higher level of SOX9 expression was associated with invasive and macro tumors in GH-secreting pituitary adenoma patients. The positive correlation of SOX9 gene and protein level was observed and the tumor size and tumor invasive features were valuable in predicting SOX9 expression level in GH-producing pituitary tumors. CONCLUSION The study provided the first shreds of evidence regarding the expression pattern of SOX9 in the GH- secreting pituitary adenomas at both gene and protein levels which may emphasize the possible involvement of SOX9 as a mediator in pituitary adenoma tumor formation also open up new intrinsic molecular mechanism regarding pituitary adenoma pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Izak Shirian
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ghorbani
- Endocrine Research Center, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad E Khamseh
- Endocrine Research Center, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnaz Imani
- Endocrine Research Center, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshid Panahi
- Firozgar Hospital, Pathology Department, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mitra Nourbakhsh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Salimi
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Tavakoli-Yaraki
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Protective effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone analogs in DSS-induced colitis in mice. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2530. [PMID: 33510215 PMCID: PMC7844299 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81778-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Besides its metabolic and endocrine effects, growth hormone (GH)-releasing hormone (GHRH) is involved in the modulation of inflammation. Recently synthetized GHRH antagonist MIA-690 and MR-409, GHRH agonist, developed by us have shown potent pharmacological effects in various experimental paradigms. However, whether their administration modify resistance to chronic inflammatory stimuli in colon is still unknown. Ex vivo results demonstrated that MIA-690 and MR-409 inhibited production of pro-inflammatory and oxidative markers induced by lipopolysaccharide on isolated mouse colon specimens. In vivo, both MIA-690 and MR-409 have also been able to decrease the responsiveness to nociceptive stimulus, in hot plate test. Additionally, both peptides also induced a decreased sensitivity to acute and persistent inflammatory stimuli in male mice, in formalin test and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis model, respectively. MIA-690 and MR-409 attenuate DSS-induced colitis with particular regard to clinical manifestations, histopathological damage and release of pro-inflammatory and oxidative markers in colon specimens. Respect to MR-409, MIA-690 showed higher efficacy in inhibiting prostaglandin (PG)E2, 8-iso-PGF2α and serotonin (5-HT) levels, as well as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6 and nitric oxide synthase gene expression in colon specimens of DSS-induced colitis. Furthermore, MIA-690 decreased serum insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 levels in mice DSS-treated, respect to MR-409. Thus, our findings highlight the protective effects of MIA-690 and MR-409 on inflammation stimuli. The higher antinflammatory and antioxidant activities observed with MIA-690 could be related to decreased serum IGF-1 levels.
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Akhter MS, Uddin MA, Schally AV, Kubra KT, Barabutis N. Involvement of the unfolded protein response in the protective effects of growth hormone releasing hormone antagonists in the lungs. J Cell Commun Signal 2020; 15:125-129. [PMID: 33185812 PMCID: PMC7661822 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-020-00593-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonists enhance endothelial barrier function and counteract the LPS-induced lung endothelial hyperpermeability, the cardinal feature of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a multifaceted molecular mechanism, strongly involved in tissue defense against injury. The current study introduces the induction of UPR by GHRH antagonists, since those peptides induced several UPR activation markers, including the inositol-requiring enzyme-1α (IRE1α), the protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), and the activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6). On the other hand, the GHRH agonist MR-409 exerted the opposite effects. Furthermore, GHRH antagonists counteracted the kifunensine (UPR suppressor)-induced lung endothelial barrier dysfunction. Our observations suggest that UPR mediates, at least in part, the protective effects of GHRH antagonists in the lung microvasculature. To the best of our knowledge; this is the first study to provide experimental evidence in support of the hypothesis that UPR induction is a novel mechanism by which GHRH antagonists oppose severe human disease, including ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Mohammad A Uddin
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA
- Divisions of Medical Oncology and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA.
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Barabutis N. A glimpse at growth hormone-releasing hormone cosmos. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2020; 47:1632-1634. [PMID: 32289177 PMCID: PMC7426234 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone is a hypothalamic neuropeptide, which regulates the secretion of growth hormone by the anterior pituitary gland. Recent evidence suggest that it exerts growth factor activities in a diverse variety of in vivo and in vitro experimental malignancies, which are counteracted by growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonists. Those peptides support lung endothelial barrier integrity by suppressing major inflammatory pathways and by inducing the endothelial defender P53. The present effort provides information regarding the effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone in the regulation of P53 and the unfolded protein response. Furthermore, it suggests the possible application of growth hormone-releasing hormone antagonists towards the management of acute lung injury, including the lethal acute respiratory distress syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
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38
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Chiangjong W, Chutipongtanate S, Hongeng S. Anticancer peptide: Physicochemical property, functional aspect and trend in clinical application (Review). Int J Oncol 2020; 57:678-696. [PMID: 32705178 PMCID: PMC7384845 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2020.5099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is currently ineffectively treated using therapeutic drugs, and is also able to resist drug action, resulting in increased side effects following drug treatment. A novel therapeutic strategy against cancer cells is the use of anticancer peptides (ACPs). The physicochemical properties, amino acid composition and the addition of chemical groups on the ACP sequence influences their conformation, net charge and orientation of the secondary structure, leading to an effect on targeting specificity and ACP-cell interaction, as well as peptide penetrating capability, stability and efficacy. ACPs have been developed from both naturally occurring and modified peptides by substituting neutral or anionic amino acid residues with cationic amino acid residues, or by adding a chemical group. The modified peptides lead to an increase in the effectiveness of cancer therapy. Due to this effectiveness, ACPs have recently been improved to form drugs and vaccines, which have sequentially been evaluated in various phases of clinical trials. The development of the ACPs remains focused on generating newly modified ACPs for clinical application in order to decrease the incidence of new cancer cases and decrease the mortality rate. The present review could further facilitate the design of ACPs and increase efficacious ACP therapy in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wararat Chiangjong
- Pediatric Translational Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Somchai Chutipongtanate
- Pediatric Translational Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Suradej Hongeng
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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Qin YJ, Chan SO, Lin HL, Zhang YQ, He BT, Zhang L, Yu HH, Chu WK, Pang CP, Zhang HY. Increased Expression of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone in Fibrinous Inflammation of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy. Am J Ophthalmol 2020; 215:81-90. [PMID: 32061756 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the involvement of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) - growth hormone (GH) signaling in pathogenesis of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). DESIGN Experimental laboratory study. METHODS Vitreous humor, aqueous humor, and serum were obtained from 36 eyes of 36 patients with or without type 2 diabetes from 2017 to 2019. For histologic examination, 6 fibrovascular membranes were excised from eyes with active PDR. Three fibrovascular membranes were excised from nondiabetic patients with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) as controls. RESULTS In PDR, the fibrovascular tissues consisted of a mature region containing fibrocytes, and an immature region populated by abundant polymorphonuclear leukocytes in a fibrinogen meshwork. Clusters of leukocytes were found adhering to the vascular walls. In PVR, no fibrinogen and polymorphonuclear leukocyte was observed in the fibrovascular membranes. The levels of GHRH and GH in PDR were significantly increased (P < .001), with 1.8-fold and 72.8-fold in vitreous humor, and 2-fold and 4.9-fold in aqueous humor, respectively, when compared with corresponding levels in controls. No significant difference was detected for insulin-like growth factor-1. Immunohistochemistry showed intense expression of GHRH and its receptor GHRH-R in polymorphonuclear leukocytes, vascular endothelial cells, and fibrocytes in fibrovascular membranes of PDR. GHRH staining was not detectable in infiltrating cells within the fibrovascular membrane of PVR. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal a possible involvement of GHRH/GHRH-R in fibrinous inflammation that might contribute to the formation of fibrovascular membrane in PDR through mediating activities of leukocytes, vascular endothelial cells, and fibrocytes. Targeting GHRH/GHRH-R may be considered as a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of PDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Jie Qin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sun On Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hong Liang Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yu Qiao Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China; Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Bei Ting He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China; School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong Hua Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wai Kit Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Pui Pang
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hong Yang Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Eye Institute, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China.
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40
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Barabutis N. P53 in RhoA regulation. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2020; 77:197-201. [DOI: 10.1002/cm.21604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of PharmacyUniversity of Louisiana Monroe Monroe USA
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41
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Barabutis N. Growth hormone releasing hormone in the unfolded protein response context. Endocrine 2020; 67:291-293. [PMID: 31960289 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02205-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The effects of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone in human pathophysiology are not limited to those mediated by the Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone-Growth Hormone-Insulin-like Growth Factor-I axis. Receptors specific for this neuropeptide are expressed in a diverse variety of human tissues, to initiate multifarious signaling cascades, regulators of cellular homeostasis and survival. The Unfolded Protein Response is in charge of adaptive responses towards a plethora of challenges, able to trigger cellular repair or death. The possible involvement of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone and its agonistic and antagonistic analogs in those events, may deliver exciting possibilities in the treatment of human disease, including the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, 71201, USA.
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42
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Recinella L, Chiavaroli A, Orlando G, Ferrante C, Marconi GD, Gesmundo I, Granata R, Cai R, Sha W, Schally AV, Brunetti L, Leone S. Antinflammatory, antioxidant, and behavioral effects induced by administration of growth hormone-releasing hormone analogs in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:732. [PMID: 31959947 PMCID: PMC6971229 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57292-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonist MIA-690 and GHRH agonist MR-409, previously synthesized and developed by us have demonstrated potent antitumor effects. However, little is known about the effects of these analogs on brain functions. We investigated the potential antinflammatory and antioxidant effects of GHRH antagonist MIA-690 and GHRH agonist MR-409, on isolated mouse prefrontal cortex specimens treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Additionally, we studied their effects on emotional behavior after chronic in vivo treatment. Ex vivo, MIA-690 and MR-409 inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory and pro-oxidative markers. In vivo, both MIA-690 and MR-409 induced anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects, increased norepinephrine and serotonin levels and decreased nuclear factor-kB, tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 gene expression in prefrontal cortex. Increased nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 expression was also found in mice treated with MIA-690 and MR-409. MIA-690 showed higher efficacy in inhibiting all tested inflammatory and oxidative markers. In addition, MR-409 induced a down regulation of the gene and protein expression of pituitary-type GHRH-receptor in prefrontal cortex of mice after 4 weeks of treatment at 5 µg/day. In conclusion, our results demonstrate anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of GHRH analogs that could involve modulatory effects on monoaminergic signaling, inflammatory and oxidative status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Iacopo Gesmundo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin and Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin, 10126, Italy
| | - Riccarda Granata
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin and Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin, 10126, Italy
| | - Renzhi Cai
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Pathology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Wei Sha
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Pathology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33125, USA.,Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Division of Medical/Oncology, Department of Pathology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
| | - Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
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43
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Leone S, Chiavaroli A, Recinella L, Di Valerio V, Veschi S, Gasparo I, Bitto A, Ferrante C, Orlando G, Salvatori R, Brunetti L. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) deficiency promotes inflammation-associated carcinogenesis. Pharmacol Res 2019; 152:104614. [PMID: 31874252 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The somatotropic axis, in addition to its well-known metabolic and endocrine effects, plays a pivotal role in modulation of inflammation. Moreover, growth hormone (GH)-releasing hormone (GHRH) has been involved in the development of various human tumors. In this work we aimed to investigate the consequences of GHRH deficiency on the development of inflammation-associated colon carcinogenesis in a mouse model of isolated GH deficiency due to generalized ablation of the GHRH gene [GHRH knock out (GHRHKO)]. Homozygous GHRHKO (-/-) male mice and wild type (C57/BL6, +/+) male mice as control group, were used. After azoxymetane (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) treatment -/- mice displayed higher Disease Activity Index (DAI) score, and more marked weight loss compared to +/+ animals. Additionally, -/- mice showed a significant increase in total tumors, in particular of large size predominantly localized in distal colon. In colonic tissue of AOM/DSS-treated -/- mice we found the presence of invasive adenocarcinomas, dysplasia and colitis with mucosal ulceration. Conversely, AOM/DSS-treated +/+ mice showed only presence of adenomas, without invasion of sub-mucosa. Treatment with AOM/DSS significantly increased prostaglandin (PG)E2 and 8-iso-PGF2α levels along with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene expression, in colon specimens. The degree of increase of all these parameters was more markedly in -/- than +/+ mice. In conclusion, generalized GHRH ablation increases colon carcinogenesis responsiveness in male mice. Whether this results from lack of GH or GHRH remains to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Annalisa Chiavaroli
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
| | - Valentina Di Valerio
- Department of Medicine and Ageing Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Serena Veschi
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Irene Gasparo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudio Ferrante
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giustino Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Roberto Salvatori
- Division of Endocrinology Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
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44
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Uddin MA, Akhter MS, Singh SS, Kubra KT, Schally AV, Jois S, Barabutis N. GHRH antagonists support lung endothelial barrier function. Tissue Barriers 2019; 7:1669989. [PMID: 31578921 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2019.1669989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) regulates the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland. GHRH also acts as a growth and inflammatory factor in a variety of experimental models in oncology. In the current study, we used bovine pulmonary arterial cells in order to investigate the effects of GHRH and its antagonistic and agonistic analogs in key intracellular pathways that regulate endothelial permeability. GHRH antagonists suppressed the activation of MLC2, ERK1/2, JAK2/STAT3 pathway and increased the intracellular P53 and pAMPK levels. In contrast, both GHRH and GHRH agonist MR409 exerted the opposite effects. Furthermore, GHRH antagonists supported the integrity of endothelial barrier, while GHRH and GHRH agonists had the contrary effects, as reflected in measurements of transendothelial resistance. Our observations support the evidence for the anti - inflammatory role of GHRH antagonists in the vasculature. Moreover, our results suggest that GHRH antagonists should be considered as promising therapeutic agents for treating severe respiratory abnormalities, such as the lethal Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A Uddin
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
| | - Mohammad S Akhter
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
| | - Sitanshu S Singh
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
| | - Khadeja-Tul Kubra
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
| | - Andrew V Schally
- Endocrine, Polypeptide, and Cancer Institute, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA.,Divisions of Medical Oncology and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Department of Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Seetharama Jois
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
| | - Nektarios Barabutis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, Monroe, LA, USA
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