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Pathan S, Pugazenthi A, Dixon BR, Wensel TG, Rosengart TK, Mathison M. Activation of a GPCR, ORL1 receptor: A novel therapy to prevent heart failure progression. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4578315. [PMID: 39070633 PMCID: PMC11275996 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4578315/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Purpose The number of ischemic heart failure (HF) patients is growing dramatically worldwide. However, there are at present no preventive treatments for HF. Our previous study showed that Gata4 overexpression improved cardiac function after myocardial infarction in the rat heart. We also found that Gata4 overexpression significantly increased a Pnoc gene expression, an endogenous ligand for cell membrane receptor, ORL1. We hypothesized that an activation of ORL1 receptor would suppress HF in a rat ischemic heart model. Method Adult Sprague Dawley rats (8 weeks old, 6 males and 6 females) underwent left anterior descending coronary artery ligation. Three weeks later, normal saline or MCOPPB (ORL1 activator, 2.5mg/kg/day) intraperitoneal injection was started, and continued 5 days a week, for 3 months. Echocardiography was performed six times, pre-operative, 3 days after coronary artery ligation, pre-MCOPPB or saline injection, and 1, 2, and 3 months after saline or MCOPPB injection started. Animals were euthanized after 3 months follow up and the heart was harvested for histological analysis. Results ORL1 activator, MCOPPB, significantly improved cardiac function after myocardial infarction in rat (Ejection fraction, MCOPPB vs saline at euthanasia, 67 ± 3 vs 43 ± 2, p < 0.001). MCOPPB also decreased fibrosis and induced angiogenesis. Conclusion ORL1 activator, MCOPPB, may be a novel treatment for preventing HF progression.
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Ding H, Kiguchi N, Dobbins M, Romero-Sandoval EA, Kishioka S, Ko MC. Nociceptin Receptor-Related Agonists as Safe and Non-addictive Analgesics. Drugs 2023; 83:771-793. [PMID: 37209211 PMCID: PMC10948013 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01878-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
As clinical use of currently available opioid analgesics is often impeded by dose-limiting adverse effects, such as abuse liability and respiratory depression, new approaches have been pursued to develop safe, effective, and non-addictive pain medications. After the identification of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor more than 25 years ago, NOP receptor-related agonists have emerged as a promising target for developing novel and effective opioids that modulate the analgesic and addictive properties of mu-opioid peptide (MOP) receptor agonists. In this review, we highlight the effects of the NOP receptor-related agonists compared with those of MOP receptor agonists in experimental rodent and more translational non-human primate (NHP) models and the development status of key NOP receptor-related agonists as potential safe and non-addictive analgesics. Several lines of evidence demonstrated that peptidic and non-peptidic NOP receptor agonists produce potent analgesic effects by intrathecal delivery in NHPs. Moreover, mixed NOP/MOP receptor partial agonists (e.g., BU08028, BU10038, and AT-121) display potent analgesic effects when administered intrathecally or systemically, without eliciting adverse effects, such as respiratory depression, itch behavior, and signs of abuse liability. More importantly, cebranopadol, a mixed NOP/opioid receptor agonist with full efficacy at NOP and MOP receptors, produces robust analgesic efficacy with reduced adverse effects, conferring promising outcomes in clinical studies. A balanced coactivation of NOP and MOP receptors is a strategy that warrants further exploration and refinement for the development of novel analgesics with a safer and effective profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiping Ding
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Norikazu Kiguchi
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, 640-8156, Japan
| | - MaryBeth Dobbins
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - E Alfonso Romero-Sandoval
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Shiroh Kishioka
- Faculty of Wakayama Health Care Sciences, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care, Wakayama, 640-8392, Japan
| | - Mei-Chuan Ko
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
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3
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Raffaele M, Kovacovicova K, Biagini T, Lo Re O, Frohlich J, Giallongo S, Nhan JD, Giannone AG, Cabibi D, Ivanov M, Tonchev AB, Mistrik M, Lacey M, Dzubak P, Gurska S, Hajduch M, Bartek J, Mazza T, Micale V, Curran SP, Vinciguerra M. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid receptor (NOP) selective ligand MCOPPB links anxiolytic and senolytic effects. GeroScience 2022; 44:463-483. [PMID: 34820764 PMCID: PMC8612119 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00487-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of senescent cells may drive age-associated alterations and pathologies. Senolytics are promising therapeutics that can preferentially eliminate senescent cells. Here, we performed a high-throughput automatized screening (HTS) of the commercial LOPAC®Pfizer library on aphidicolin-induced senescent human fibroblasts, to identify novel senolytics. We discovered the nociceptin receptor FQ opioid receptor (NOP) selective ligand 1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-[(3R)-3-piperidinyl]-1H-benzimidazole (MCOPPB, a compound previously studied as potential anxiolytic) as the best scoring hit. The ability of MCOPPB to eliminate senescent cells in in vitro models was further tested in mice and in C. elegans. MCOPPB reduced the senescence cell burden in peripheral tissues but not in the central nervous system. Mice and worms exposed to MCOPPB also exhibited locomotion and lipid storage changes. Mechanistically, MCOPPB treatment activated transcriptional networks involved in the immune responses to external stressors, implicating Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Our study uncovers MCOPPB as a NOP ligand that, apart from anxiolytic effects, also shows tissue-specific senolytic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Raffaele
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kristina Kovacovicova
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
- Psychogenics Inc, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Tommaso Biagini
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Oriana Lo Re
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Jan Frohlich
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Sebastiano Giallongo
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - James D Nhan
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Computational Biology, Arts, and Sciences, Dornsife College of Letters, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Antonino Giulio Giannone
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Pathologic Anatomy Unit-University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Cabibi
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Pathologic Anatomy Unit-University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Martin Ivanov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Anton B Tonchev
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Martin Mistrik
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Matthew Lacey
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Dzubak
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Sona Gurska
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Marian Hajduch
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Bartek
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Genome Integrity Unit, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tommaso Mazza
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sean P Curran
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Computational Biology, Arts, and Sciences, Dornsife College of Letters, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Manlio Vinciguerra
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria.
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Ubaldi M, Cannella N, Borruto AM, Petrella M, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Soverchia L, Stopponi S, Weiss F, Cifani C, Ciccocioppo R. Role of Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ-NOP Receptor System in the Regulation of Stress-Related Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12956. [PMID: 34884757 PMCID: PMC8657682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is a 17-residue neuropeptide that binds the nociceptin opioid-like receptor (NOP). N/OFQ exhibits nucleotidic and aminoacidics sequence homology with the precursors of other opioid neuropeptides but it does not activate either MOP, KOP or DOP receptors. Furthermore, opioid neuropeptides do not activate the NOP receptor. Generally, activation of N/OFQ system exerts anti-opioids effects, for instance toward opioid-induced reward and analgesia. The NOP receptor is widely expressed throughout the brain, whereas N/OFQ localization is confined to brain nuclei that are involved in stress response such as amygdala, BNST and hypothalamus. Decades of studies have delineated the biological role of this system demonstrating its involvement in significant physiological processes such as pain, learning and memory, anxiety, depression, feeding, drug and alcohol dependence. This review discusses the role of this peptidergic system in the modulation of stress and stress-associated psychiatric disorders in particular drug addiction, mood, anxiety and food-related associated-disorders. Emerging preclinical evidence suggests that both NOP agonists and antagonists may represent a effective therapeutic approaches for substances use disorder. Moreover, the current literature suggests that NOP antagonists can be useful to treat depression and feeding-related diseases, such as obesity and binge eating behavior, whereas the activation of NOP receptor by agonists could be a promising tool for anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Ubaldi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Nazzareno Cannella
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Anna Maria Borruto
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Michele Petrella
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Micioni Di Bonaventura
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Laura Soverchia
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Serena Stopponi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Friedbert Weiss
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
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De Neve J, Barlow TMA, Tourwé D, Bihel F, Simonin F, Ballet S. Comprehensive overview of biased pharmacology at the opioid receptors: biased ligands and bias factors. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:828-870. [PMID: 34223156 PMCID: PMC8221262 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00041a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the main challenges in contemporary medicinal chemistry is the development of safer analgesics, used in the treatment of pain. Currently, moderate to severe pain is still treated with the "gold standard" opioids whose long-term often leads to severe side effects. With the discovery of biased agonism, the importance of this area of pharmacology has grown exponentially over the past decade. Of these side effects, tolerance, opioid misuse, physical dependence and substance use disorder (SUD) stand out, since these have led to many deaths over the past decades in both USA and Europe. New therapeutic molecules that induce a biased response at the opioid receptors (MOR, DOR, KOR and NOP receptor) are able to circumvent these side effects and, consequently, serve as more advantageous therapies with great promise. The concept of biased signaling extends far beyond the already sizeable field of GPCR pharmacology and covering everything would be vastly outside the scope of this review which consequently covers the biased ligands acting at the opioid family of receptors. The limitation of quantifying bias, however, makes this a controversial subject, where it is dependent on the reference ligand, the equation or the assay used for the quantification. Hence, the major issue in the field of biased ligands remains the translation of the in vitro profiles of biased signaling, with corresponding bias factors to in vivo profiles showing the presence or the lack of specific side effects. This review comprises a comprehensive overview of biased ligands in addition to their bias factors at individual members of the opioid family of receptors, as well as bifunctional ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolien De Neve
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Thomas M A Barlow
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Dirk Tourwé
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Frédéric Bihel
- Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR 7200, CNRS Université de Strasbourg Illkirch France
| | - Frédéric Simonin
- Biotechnologie et Signalisation Cellulaire, UMR 7242, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg Illkirch France
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
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Hou T, Xu F, Peng X, Zhou H, Zhang X, Qiu M, Wang J, Liu Y, Liang X. Label-free cell phenotypic study of opioid receptors and discovery of novel mu opioid ligands from natural products. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 270:113872. [PMID: 33485984 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.113872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Mu opioid receptor (MOR) is mainly a drug target for analgesia. Opioid-like agonists such as morphine have been clinically used for analgesia but have potential adverse effects. MOR antagonists have been demonstrated to alleviate these side effects. Plants (Carthamus tinctorius L, Cynanchum otophyllum C. K. Schneid., Coffea arabica L., Prinsepia utilis Royle and Lepidium meyenii Walp.) and Ganoderma fungi (Ganoderma hainanense J. D. Zhao, Ganoderma capense (Lloyd) Teng, Ganoderma cochlear (Blume et Nees) Bres., Ganoderma resinaceum Boud and Ganoderma applanatum (Pers.) Pat.) are traditional medicines with beneficial effects on immunoregulation, analgesia and the nervous system, but whether MORs are engaged in their effects remains unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY This work aimed to identify MOR ligands among compounds isolated from the above-mentioned 10 species, and to investigate selectivity against four opioid receptor subtypes. By analyzing the structure-activity relationship and off-target effects, we could provide a new direction for the future development of MOR drugs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four opioid receptor subtype models, including MOR, delta (DOR), kappa (KOR) and nop (NOR), were established with a label-free phenotypic dynamic mass redistribution assay to systematically profile the pharmacological properties of known ligands. Then, 82 natural compounds derived from the 10 species were screened against MOR to identify new ligands. The selectivity of the new ligands was characterized against the four subtypes, and off-target effects were also investigated on eight G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). RESULTS The pharmacological properties of known ligands on transfected HEK293T-MOR, HEK293-DOR, HEK293-KOR and HEK293-NOR cell lines were characterized. Seven compounds purified from Ganoderma cochlear (Blume et Nees) Bres. and Carthamus tinctorius L were MOR antagonists with micromolar potency. Among them, compound 35 showed the strongest antagonistic activity on MOR with an IC50 value of 10.0 ± 3.0 μM. To a certain extent, these seven new antagonists, exhibited antagonistic activity on the other opioid receptor subtypes, and they had almost no effect on other GPCRs, including CB1, CB2, M2 and beta2AR. Additionally, a compound from Lepidium meyenii Walp. displayed MOR agonistic activity. CONCLUSIONS The established screening models opened new avenues for the discovery and evaluation of opioid receptor ligand selectivity. Together, the novel MOR antagonists and agonists will enrich the inventory of MOR ligands and benefit related therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Hou
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Fangfang Xu
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Xingrong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China.
| | - Han Zhou
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Minghua Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China.
| | - Jixia Wang
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China; Jiangxi Chinese Medicine Science Center of DICP, CAS, Nanchang, 330000, China.
| | - Yanfang Liu
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China; Jiangxi Chinese Medicine Science Center of DICP, CAS, Nanchang, 330000, China.
| | - Xinmiao Liang
- Key Lab of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China; Jiangxi Chinese Medicine Science Center of DICP, CAS, Nanchang, 330000, China.
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Azevedo Neto J, Ruzza C, Sturaro C, Malfacini D, Pacifico S, Zaveri NT, Calò G. Functional Selectivity Does Not Predict Antinociceptive/Locomotor Impairing Potencies of NOP Receptor Agonists. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:657153. [PMID: 33859548 PMCID: PMC8042269 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.657153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ controls several functions, including pain transmission, via stimulation of the N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor. Here we tested the hypothesis that NOP biased agonism may be instrumental for identifying innovative analgesics. In vitro experiments were performed with the dynamic mass redistribution label free assay and the NOP non-peptide agonists Ro 65-6570, AT-403 and MCOPPB. In vivo studies were performed in wild type and β-arrestin 2 knockout mice using the formalin, rotarod and locomotor activity tests. In vitro all compounds mimicked the effects of N/OFQ behaving as potent NOP full agonists. In vivo Ro 65-6570 demonstrated a slightly higher therapeutic index (antinociceptive vs. motor impairment effects) in knockout mice. However, all NOP agonists displayed very similar therapeutic index in normal mice despite significant differences in G protein biased agonism. In conclusion the different ability of inducing G protein vs. β-arrestin 2 recruitment of a NOP agonist cannot be applied to predict its antinociceptive vs. motor impairment properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Azevedo Neto
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Sturaro
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Girolamo Calò
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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8
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Faouzi A, Varga BR, Majumdar S. Biased Opioid Ligands. Molecules 2020; 25:E4257. [PMID: 32948048 PMCID: PMC7570672 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Achieving effective pain management is one of the major challenges associated with modern day medicine. Opioids, such as morphine, have been the reference treatment for moderate to severe acute pain not excluding chronic pain modalities. Opioids act through the opioid receptors, the family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that mediate pain relief through both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Four types of opioid receptors have been described, including the μ-opioid receptor (MOR), κ-opioid receptor (KOR), δ-opioid receptor (DOR), and the nociceptin opioid peptide receptor (NOP receptor). Despite the proven success of opioids in treating pain, there are still some inherent limitations. All clinically approved MOR analgesics are associated with adverse effects, which include tolerance, dependence, addiction, constipation, and respiratory depression. On the other hand, KOR selective analgesics have found limited clinical utility because they cause sedation, anxiety, dysphoria, and hallucinations. DOR agonists have also been investigated but they have a tendency to cause convulsions. Ligands targeting NOP receptor have been reported in the preclinical literature to be useful as spinal analgesics and as entities against substance abuse disorders while mixed MOR/NOP receptor agonists are useful as analgesics. Ultimately, the goal of opioid-related drug development has always been to design and synthesize derivatives that are equally or more potent than morphine but most importantly are devoid of the dangerous residual side effects and abuse potential. One proposed strategy is to take advantage of biased agonism, in which distinct downstream pathways can be activated by different molecules working through the exact same receptor. It has been proposed that ligands not recruiting β-arrestin 2 or showing a preference for activating a specific G-protein mediated signal transduction pathway will function as safer analgesic across all opioid subtypes. This review will focus on the design and the pharmacological outcomes of biased ligands at the opioid receptors, aiming at achieving functional selectivity.
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MESH Headings
- Analgesics, Opioid/chemistry
- Analgesics, Opioid/metabolism
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Analgesics, Opioid/therapeutic use
- Arrestin/metabolism
- Furans/chemistry
- Furans/metabolism
- Humans
- Ligands
- Pain/drug therapy
- Pyrones/chemistry
- Pyrones/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Susruta Majumdar
- Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63131, USA; (A.F.); (B.R.V.)
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9
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Holanda VAD, Pacifico S, Azevedo Neto J, Finetti L, Lobão-Soares B, Calo G, Gavioli EC, Ruzza C. Modulation of the NOP receptor signaling affects resilience to acute stress. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1540-1549. [PMID: 31337258 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119864942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor (NOP) are implicated in the modulation of emotional states. Previous human and rodent findings support NOP antagonists as antidepressants. However, the role played by the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system in resilience to stress is unclear. AIMS The present study investigated the effects of activation or blockade of NOP receptor signaling before exposure to acute stress. METHODS The behavioral effects of the administration before stress of the NOP agonists Ro 65-6570 (0.01-1 mg/kg) and MCOPPB (0.1-10 mg/kg), and the NOP antagonist SB-612111 (1-10 mg/kg) were assessed in mice exposed to inescapable electric footshock and forced swim as stressors. The behavioral phenotype of mice lacking the NOP receptor (NOP(-/-)) exposed to inescapable electric footshock was also investigated. RESULTS The activation of NOP receptor signaling with the agonists increased the percentage of mice developing helpless behavior and facilitated immobile posture. In contrast, the blockade of NOP receptor reduced the acquisition of depressive-like phenotypes, and similar resistance to develop helpless behaviors was observed in NOP(-/-) mice. Under the same stressful conditions, the antidepressant nortriptyline (20 mg/kg) did not change the acquisition of helpless behavior and immobile posture. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the view that NOP activation during acute stress facilitates the development of depressive-related behaviors, whereas NOP blockade has a protective outcome. This study showed for first time that NOP antagonists are worthy of investigation as preemptive treatments in patients with severe risk factors for depression.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Benzimidazoles/administration & dosage
- Benzimidazoles/pharmacology
- Cycloheptanes/administration & dosage
- Cycloheptanes/pharmacology
- Depression/drug therapy
- Depression/physiopathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Female
- Imidazoles/administration & dosage
- Imidazoles/pharmacology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Knockout
- Nortriptyline/pharmacology
- Opioid Peptides/metabolism
- Piperidines/administration & dosage
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Receptors, Opioid/drug effects
- Receptors, Opioid/genetics
- Receptors, Opioid/metabolism
- Resilience, Psychological/drug effects
- Spiro Compounds/administration & dosage
- Spiro Compounds/pharmacology
- Stress, Psychological/drug therapy
- Stress, Psychological/physiopathology
- Nociceptin Receptor
- Nociceptin
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor A D Holanda
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Joaquim Azevedo Neto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Finetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Bruno Lobão-Soares
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Girolamo Calo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elaine C Gavioli
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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10
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Abstract
The development of nonpeptide systemically active small-molecule NOP-targeted ligands has contributed tremendously to validating the NOP receptor as a promising target for therapeutics. Although a NOP-targeted compound is not yet approved for clinical use, a few NOP ligands are in clinical trials for various indications. Both successful and failed human clinical trials with NOP ligands provide opportunities for rational development of new and improved NOP-targeted compounds. A few years after the discovery of the NOP receptor in 1994, and its de-orphanization upon discovery of the endogenous peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) in 1995, there was a significant effort in the pharmaceutical industry to discover nonpeptide NOP ligands from hits obtained from high-throughput screening campaigns of compound libraries. Depending on the therapeutic indication to be pursued, NOP agonists and antagonists were discovered, and some were optimized as clinical candidates. Advances such as G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) structure elucidation, functional selectivity in ligand-driven GPCR activation, and multi-targeted ligands provide new scope for the rational design of novel NOP ligands fine-tuned for successful clinical translation. This article reviews the field of nonpeptide NOP ligand drug design in the context of these exciting developments and highlights new optimized nonpeptide NOP ligands possessing interesting functional profiles, which are particularly attractive for several unmet clinical applications involving NOP receptor pharmacomodulation.
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11
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Abstract
The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide receptor (NOP) is a G protein-coupled receptor involved in the regulation of several physiological functions and pathological conditions. Thus, researchers from academia and industry are pursuing NOP to discover and study novel pharmacological entities. In a multidisciplinary effort of pharmacologists, medicinal chemists, and molecular and structural biologists the mechanisms of NOP activation and inhibition have been, at least partially, disentangled. Here, we review the in vitro methodologies employed, which have contributed to our understanding of this target. We hope this chapter guides the reader through the mostly established assay platforms to investigate NOP pharmacology, and gives some hints taking advantage from what has already illuminated the function of other GPCRs. We analyzed the pharmacological results obtained with a large panel of NOP ligands investigated in several assays including receptor binding, stimulation of GTPγS binding, decrease of cAMP levels, calcium flux stimulation via chimeric G proteins, NOP/G protein and NOP/β-arrestin interaction, label-free assays such as dynamic mass redistribution, and bioassays such as the electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Malfacini
- Molecular, Cellular and Pharmacobiology Section, Institute for Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Girolamo Caló
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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12
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Calo G, Lambert DG. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor ligands and translational challenges: focus on cebranopadol as an innovative analgesic. Br J Anaesth 2018; 121:1105-1114. [PMID: 30336855 PMCID: PMC6208290 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2018.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids are characterised as classical (mu, delta, and kappa) along with the non-classical nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor or NOP. Targeting NOP has therapeutic indications in control of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems and micturition, and a profile as an antidepressant. For all of these indications, there are translational human data. Opioids such as morphine and fentanyl (activating the mu receptor) are the mainstay of pain treatment in the perioperative period, despite a challenging side-effect profile. Opioids in general have poor efficacy in neuropathic pain. Moreover, longer term use is associated with tolerance. There is good evidence interactions between opioid receptors, and receptor co-activation can reduce side-effects without compromising analgesia; this is particularly true for mu and NOP co-activation. Recent pharmaceutical development has produced a mixed opioid/NOP agonist, cebranopadol. This new chemical entity is effective in animal models of nociceptive and neuropathic pain with greater efficacy in the latter. In animal models, there is little evidence for respiratory depression, and tolerance (compared with morphine) only develops after long treatment periods. There is now early phase clinical development in diabetic neuropathy, cancer pain, and low back pain where cebranopadol displays significant efficacy. In 1996, N/OFQ was formally identified with an innovative analgesic profile. Approximately 20 yr later, cebranopadol as a clinical ligand is advancing through the human trials process.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Calo
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences, National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - D G Lambert
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
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13
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Gavioli EC, Holanda VAD, Ruzza C. NOP Ligands for the Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2018; 254:233-257. [PMID: 30535941 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Many studies point toward the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and the N/OFQ peptide receptor (NOP) as targets for the development of innovative drugs for treating anxiety- and mood-related disorders. Evidence supports the view that the activation of NOP receptors with agonists elicits anxiolytic-like effects, while its blockade with NOP antagonists promotes antidepressant-like actions in rodents. Genetic studies showed that NOP receptor knockout mice display an antidepressant-like phenotype, and NOP antagonists are inactive in these animals. In contrast, the genetic blockade of NOP receptor signaling generally displays an increase of anxiety states in the elevated plus-maze test. In this chapter we summarized the most relevant findings of NOP receptor ligands in the modulation of anxiety and mood disorders, and the putative mechanisms of action are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Gavioli
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil.
| | - Victor A D Holanda
- Behavioral Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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14
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Ferrari F, Malfacini D, Journigan BV, Bird MF, Trapella C, Guerrini R, Lambert DG, Calo' G, Zaveri NT. In vitro pharmacological characterization of a novel unbiased NOP receptor-selective nonpeptide agonist AT-403. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2017; 5. [PMID: 28805972 PMCID: PMC5684865 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2017] [Revised: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) regulates several biological functions via selective activation of the N/OFQ receptor (NOP), a member of the opioid receptor family. We recently identified a new high affinity and highly selective NOP agonist AT-403. In this study, we characterized the functional profile of AT-403 and compared it to other known nonpeptide NOP agonists Ro 65-6570, Ro 2q, SCH-221510, MCOPPB, AT-202 and SCH-486757, using the following assays: GTPγ[35 S] stimulated binding, calcium mobilization assay in cells-expressing human NOP or classical opioid receptors and chimeric G proteins, bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) based assay for studying NOP receptor interaction with G protein and arrestin, and the electrically stimulated mouse vas deferens bioassay. All compounds behaved as NOP full agonists consistently showing the following rank order of potency MCOPPB > AT-403 > Ro 65-6570 = Ro 2q > SCH-221510 > AT-202 > SCH-486757. AT-403 and MCOPPB displayed the highest NOP selectivity both at human and murine receptors. Interestingly, while all the other nonpeptide NOP agonists displayed bias toward G protein-mediated signaling in the BRET assay, AT-403, similar to the natural ligand N/OFQ, behaved as an unbiased agonist, activating G-protein-mediated function as well as arrestin recruitment. AT-403 may be a useful nonpeptide tool compound to study the pharmacology of NOP activation in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Ferrari
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Blair V Journigan
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC. 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, California
| | - Mark F Bird
- Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Claudio Trapella
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - David G Lambert
- Division of Anaesthesia, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Critical Care and Pain Management, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Girolamo Calo'
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Medical Sciences and National Institute of Neurosciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC. 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, California
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15
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Zaveri NT. Nociceptin Opioid Receptor (NOP) as a Therapeutic Target: Progress in Translation from Preclinical Research to Clinical Utility. J Med Chem 2016; 59:7011-28. [PMID: 26878436 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In the two decades since the discovery of the nociceptin opioid receptor (NOP) and its ligand, nociceptin/orphaninFQ (N/OFQ), steady progress has been achieved in understanding the pharmacology of this fourth opioid receptor/peptide system, aided by genetic and pharmacologic approaches. This research spawned an explosion of small-molecule NOP receptor ligands from discovery programs in major pharmaceutical companies. NOP agonists have been investigated for their efficacy in preclinical models of anxiety, cough, substance abuse, pain (spinal and peripheral), and urinary incontinence, whereas NOP antagonists have been investigated for treatment of pain, depression, and motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease. Translation of preclinical findings into the clinic is guided by PET and receptor occupancy studies, particularly for NOP antagonists. Recent progress in preclinical NOP research suggests that NOP agonists may have clinical utility for pain treatment and substance abuse pharmacotherapy. This review discusses the progress toward validating the NOP-N/OFQ system as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics , 320 Logue Avenue, Suite 142, Mountain View, California 94043, United States
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16
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Asth L, Ruzza C, Malfacini D, Medeiros I, Guerrini R, Zaveri NT, Gavioli EC, Calo' G. Beta-arrestin 2 rather than G protein efficacy determines the anxiolytic-versus antidepressant-like effects of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor ligands. Neuropharmacology 2016; 105:434-442. [PMID: 26867504 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) receptor (NOP) agonists produce anxiolytic-like effects in rodents while antagonists promote antidepressant-like effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect on anxiety and depression of NOP receptor partial agonists such as the peptides [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 and UFP-113 and the non-peptide AT-090. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In vitro AT-090, UFP-113, and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 were tested for their ability to promote NOP/G-protein and NOP/β-arrestin 2 interaction, using a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer assay. In vivo, they were tested in mice in the elevated plus maze (EPM) and in the forced swim (FST) tests. NOP partial agonists effects were systematically compared to those of full agonists (N/OFQ and Ro 65-6570) and antagonists (UFP-101 and SB-612111). KEY RESULTS In vitro, AT-090, UFP-113, and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 promoted NOP/G protein interaction, with maximal effects lower than those evoked by N/OFQ and Ro 65-6570. AT-090 behaved as a NOP partial agonist also in inducing β-arrestin 2 recruitment, while UFP-113 and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2 were inactive in this assay. In vivo, AT-090 induced anxiolytic-like effects in the EPM but was inactive in the FST. Opposite results were obtained with UFP-113 and [F/G]N/OFQ(1-13)NH2. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS NOP ligands producing similar effects on NOP/G protein interaction (partial agonism) but showing different effects on β-arrestin 2 recruitment (partial agonism vs antagonism) elicited different actions on anxiety and mood. These results suggest that the action of a NOP ligand on emotional states is better predicted based on its β-arrestin 2 rather than G-protein efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Asth
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - C Ruzza
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - D Malfacini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - I Medeiros
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - R Guerrini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - N T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, LLC., 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States
| | - E C Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - G Calo'
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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17
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Chang SD, Mascarella SW, Spangler SM, Gurevich VV, Navarro HA, Carroll FI, Bruchas MR. Quantitative Signaling and Structure-Activity Analyses Demonstrate Functional Selectivity at the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Opioid Receptor. Mol Pharmacol 2015; 88:502-11. [PMID: 26134494 DOI: 10.1124/mol.115.099150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive studies that consolidate selective ligands, quantitative comparisons of G protein versus arrestin-2/3 coupling, together with structure-activity relationship models for G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) systems are less commonly employed. Here we examine biased signaling at the nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid receptor (NOPR), the most recently identified member of the opioid receptor family. Using real-time, live-cell assays, we identified the signaling profiles of several NOPR-selective ligands in upstream GPCR signaling (G protein and arrestin pathways) to determine their relative transduction coefficients and signaling bias. Complementing this analysis, we designed novel ligands on the basis of NOPR antagonist J-113,397 [(±)-1-[(3R*,4R*)-1-(cyclooctylmethyl)-3-(hydroxymethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-3-ethyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one] to explore structure-activity relationships. Our study shows that NOPR is capable of biased signaling, and further, the NOPR selective ligands MCOPPB [1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-(3R)-3-piperidinyl-1H-benzimidazole trihydrochloride] and NNC 63-0532 [8-(1-naphthalenylmethyl)-4-oxo-1-phenyl-1,3,8-triazaspiro[4.5]decane-3-acetic acid, methyl ester] are G protein-biased agonists. Additionally, minor structural modification of J-113,397 can dramatically shift signaling from antagonist to partial agonist activity. We explore these findings with in silico modeling of binding poses. This work is the first to demonstrate functional selectivity and identification of biased ligands at the nociceptin opioid receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Chang
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - S Wayne Mascarella
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Skylar M Spangler
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Vsevolod V Gurevich
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Hernan A Navarro
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - F Ivy Carroll
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
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18
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Filaferro M, Ruggieri V, Novi C, Calò G, Cifani C, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Sandrini M, Vitale G. Functional antagonism between nociceptin/orphanin FQ and corticotropin-releasing factor in rat anxiety-related behaviors: involvement of the serotonergic system. Neuropeptides 2014; 48:189-97. [PMID: 24894718 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2014.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2013] [Revised: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) acts as an anxiolytic-like agent in the rat and behaves as a functional antagonist of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) due to its ability to oppose CRF biological actions. In response to stress, CRF triggers changes in neurotransmitter systems including serotonin (5-HT). The role of 5-HT1A receptor in anxiety has been supported by preclinical and clinical studies. The present study investigated the possible functional antagonism between N/OFQ (1nmol/rat) and CRF (0.2nmol/rat) in anxiety-related conditions in rats, using elevated plus maze and defensive burying tests, in order to confirm previous literature results. Moreover, possible changes in the serotonergic system were studied in areas rich of serotonergic neurons: frontal cortex and pons. In both tests N/OFQ showed anxiolytic-like effects while CRF displayed anxiogenic-like effects. N/OFQ before CRF treatment counteracted the anxiogenic-like effects evoked by CRF. In frontal cortex, N/OFQ significantly decreased 5-HT levels but did not modify the hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) ones; CRF modified neither 5-HT nor 5-HIAA content but counteracted changes induced by N/OFQ alone. In pons, N/OFQ induced no change in serotonergic activity while CRF significantly decreased 5-HT levels and increased 5-HIAA content. The two peptides' combination reinstated serotonergic parameters to controls. In frontal cortex, N/OFQ increased the 5HT1A receptor density but reduced its affinity, while CRF alone did not induce any change. In pons, CRF decreased 5HT1ABmax and KD whereas N/OFQ was ineffective. All biochemical modifications were reverted by N/OFQ plus CRF treatment. The present study confirms that N/OFQ counteracts CRF anxiogenic-like effects in the behavioral tests evaluated. These effects may involve central serotonergic mechanisms since N/OFQ plus CRF induces a reversion of serotonergic changes provoked by single peptide. Our data support the hypothesis that N/OFQ may behave as functional CRF antagonist, this action being of interest for the treatment of anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Filaferro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic Sciences and Neurosciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - V Ruggieri
- Department of Life Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - C Novi
- Department of Life Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - G Calò
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, and National Institute of Neuroscience, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 19, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - C Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Macerata, Italy
| | - M V Micioni Di Bonaventura
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Macerata, Italy
| | - M Sandrini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic Sciences and Neurosciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - G Vitale
- Department of Life Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy.
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Gavioli EC, Calo' G. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor antagonists as innovative antidepressant drugs. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 140:10-25. [PMID: 23711793 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and its receptor (NOP) were identified in the mid 90s as a novel peptidergic system structurally related to opioids. A growing body of preclinical evidence suggests that blockade of NOP receptors evokes antidepressant-like actions. These have been explored using a range of compounds (peptide and non peptide antagonists), across different species (rat and mouse) and assays (behavioral despair and chronic mild stress) suggesting a robust and consistent antidepressant-like effect. Moreover, rats and mice knockout for the NOP receptor gene display an antidepressant-like phenotype in behavioral despair assays. Electrophysiological, immunohistochemical and neurochemical studies point to an important role played by monoaminergic systems, particularly 5-HTergic, in mediating the antidepressant-like properties of NOP antagonists. However other putative mechanisms of action, including modulation of the CRF system, circadian rhythm and a possible neuroendocrine-immune control might be involved. A close relationship between the N/OFQ-NOP receptor system and stress responses is well described in the literature. Stressful situations also alter endocrine, behavioral and neurochemical parameters in rats and chronic administration of a NOP antagonist restored these alterations. Interestingly, clinical findings showed that plasma N/OFQ levels were significantly altered in major and post-partum depression, and bipolar disease patients. Collectively, data in the literature support the notion that blockade of NOP receptor signaling could be a novel and interesting strategy for the development of innovative antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Cristina Gavioli
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, 59078-970 Natal-RN, Brazil.
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Goeldner C, Spooren W, Wichmann J, Prinssen EP. Further characterization of the prototypical nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor agonist Ro 64-6198 in rodent models of conflict anxiety and despair. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2012; 222:203-14. [PMID: 22249359 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2636-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2011] [Accepted: 12/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Ro 64-6198, the prototypical non-peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor agonist, has potent anxiolytic-like effects in several preclinical models and species. However the effects of Ro 64-6198 on distinctive anxiety-provoking conditions related to unconditioned conflict behavior as well as its role in despair-like behavior remain to be addressed. OBJECTIVE Here we examined the effects of Ro 64-6198 on unconditioned conflict anxiety using stimuli with different salience and on regulation of autonomic reactivity and compared these to the effects of benzodiazepine receptor agonists. We also addressed the potential effects of Ro 64-6198 on despair-like behavior. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ro 64-6198 (0.1 to 10 mg/kg i.p.) and either diazepam or chlordiazepoxide were tested in the Vogel conflict punished drinking test (VCT) in Sprague Dawley rats, in the social approach-avoidance (SAA) test in Lewis rats, in the novelty-induced hypophagia (NIH) in C57BL/6J mice, and in stress-induced hyperthermia in NMRI mice, as well as in the forced swim test (FST) in Sprague Dawley rats and the tail suspension test (TST) in C57BL/6J mice. RESULTS Ro 64-6198 (0.3 to 3 mg/kg) dose-dependently produced anxiolytic-like effects in the VCT, SAA, NIH, and SIH, similar to benzodiazepine receptor agonists. Ro 64-6198 did not alter immobility time in the FST and TST. CONCLUSIONS Ro 64-6198 produced marked anxiolytic-like effects in response to a variety of mild to strong anxiogenic stimuli, whereas it did not facilitate depression-related behaviors. This data extend previous literature suggesting that NOP receptors are a viable target for the treatment of anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Goeldner
- CNS Research, CNS Discovery, pRED, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, CH-4070 Basel, Switzerland
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Liao YY, Teng SF, Lin LC, Kolczewski S, Prinssen EP, Lee LJ, Ho IK, Chiou LC. Functional heterogeneity of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptors revealed by (+)-5a Compound and Ro 64-6198 in rat periaqueductal grey slices. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2011; 14:977-89. [PMID: 21029514 DOI: 10.1017/s146114571000129x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor is a non-opioid branch of the opioid receptor family implicated in several neurological and psychological disorders, such as pain, anxiety, depression, involuntary movement, addiction, seizure and dementia. Heterogeneity of NOP receptors has been proposed based on the findings of splicing variants and from binding and functional studies. We have previously reported that Ro 64-6198, a NOP receptor agonist, activated a subset, but not all, of N/OFQ-sensitive NOP receptors in midbrain ventrolateral periaqueductal grey (vlPAG). In this study, we found that a new NOP receptor ligand, (+)-5a Compound ((3aS, 6aR)-1-(cis-4-isopropylcyclohexyl)-5'-methyl-2'-phenylhexahydrospiro[piperidine-4,1'-pyrrolo[3, 4-c]pyrrole]), also activated a subset of NOP receptors in vlPAG neurons. (+)-5a Compound (0.1-30 μm) concentration-dependently activated G-protein-coupled inwardly-rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels mediated through the NOP receptors in about 35% of the recorded vlPAG neurons. (+)-5a Compound (EC50: 605 nm) was less potent (1/12) and efficacious (47%) than N/OFQ. In (+)-5a Compound-insensitive neurons, Ro 64-6198 was also ineffective, and vice versa, but N/OFQ activated GIRK channels through NOP receptors. In (+)-5a Compound-sensitive neurons, (+)-5a Compound precluded the effect of Ro 64-6198. Immunofluorecent and morphometric studies showed that most of the (+)-5a Compound-sensitive neurons were multipolar with intensive dendritic arborization and immunoreactive to glutamic acid decarboxylase-67. It is suggested that (+)-5a Compound activates a subset of NOP receptors, similar to the Ro 64-6198-sensitive subset, in the vlPAG neurons which are mostly GABAergic. These results further support the presence of functional heterogeneity of NOP receptors in the midbrain PAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Yu Liao
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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22
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Mustazza C, Bastanzio G. Development of nociceptin receptor (NOP) agonists and antagonists. Med Res Rev 2011; 31:605-48. [PMID: 20099319 DOI: 10.1002/med.20197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The nociceptin opioid (NOP) receptor is the most recently discovered member of the family of the opioid receptors; its endogenous agonist is the peptide nociceptin. Due to the subsequent elucidation of its physiological role in both central and peripheral nervous system and in some non-neural tissues, there is a rapidly growing interest in the pharmacological application of substances active on this receptor. Despite the current clinical use of a morphinane-based NOP/MOP mixed ligand (buprenorphine) as an analgesic and in the treatment of drug addictions, so far just a few clinical trials have been made with selective NOP ligands. However, the perspective of their utilization is rapidly growing. Agonists can find applications in the treatment of neuropathic pain, anxiety, cough, drug addition, urinary incontinence, anorexia, congestive heart failure, hypertension; and antagonists for pain, depression, Parkinson's disease, obesity, and as memory enhancers. Besides peptide ligands, which are still subjected to many pharmacological investigations, many different chemical classes of NOP ligands have been discovered: piperidines, nortropanes, spiropiperidines, 4-amino-quinolines and quinazolines, and others. The new advances in establishing structure-activity relationships, also with the help of modeling studies, can permit the development of more active and selective molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Mustazza
- Dipartimento del Farmaco, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Roma, Italy.
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Lu SX, Higgins GA, Hodgson RA, Hyde LA, Del Vecchio RA, Guthrie DH, Kazdoba T, McCool MF, Morgan CA, Bercovici A, Ho GD, Tulshian D, Parker EM, Hunter JC, Varty GB. The anxiolytic-like profile of the nociceptin receptor agonist, endo-8-[bis(2-chlorophenyl)methyl]-3-phenyl-8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-3-carboxamide (SCH 655842): comparison of efficacy and side effects across rodent species. Eur J Pharmacol 2011; 661:63-71. [PMID: 21545797 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2011.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2010] [Revised: 03/28/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The endogenous opioid-like peptide, nociceptin, produces anxiolytic-like effects that are mediated via the nociceptin (NOP) receptor. Similarly, synthetic, non-peptide NOP agonists produce robust anxiolytic-like effects although these effects are limited by marked side effects. In the present studies, the effects of a novel NOP receptor agonist, SCH 655842, were examined in rodent models sensitive to anxiolytic drugs and tests measuring potential adverse affects. Oral administration of SCH 655842 produced robust, anxiolytic-like effects in three species, i.e., rat, guinea pig, and mouse. Specifically, SCH 655842 was effective in rat conditioned lick suppression (3-10 mg/kg) and fear-potentiated startle (3-10 mg/kg) tests, a guinea pig pup vocalization test (1-3 mg/kg), as well as in mouse Geller-Seifter (30 mg/kg) and marble burying (30 mg/kg) tests. The anxiolytic-like effect of SCH 655842 in the conditioned lick suppression test was attenuated by the NOP antagonist, J-113397. In mice, SCH 655842 reduced locomotor activity and body temperature at doses similar to the anxiolytic-like dose and these effects were absent in NOP receptor knockout mice. In rats, SCH 655842 did not produce adverse behavioral effects up to doses of 70-100 mg/kg. Pharmacokinetic studies in the rat confirmed dose-related increases in plasma and brain levels of SCH 655842 across a wide oral dose range. Taken together, SCH 655842 may represent a NOP receptor agonist with improved tolerability compared to other members of this class although further studies are necessary to establish whether this extends to higher species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry X Lu
- Department of Neurobiology, Merck & Co. Inc., Kenilworth, NJ 07033, USA
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Hayashi S, Nakata E, Morita A, Mizuno K, Yamamura K, Kato A, Ohashi K. Discovery of {1-[4-(2-{hexahydropyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrol-2(1H)-yl}-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)piperidin-1-yl]cyclooctyl}methanol, systemically potent novel non-peptide agonist of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor as analgesic for the treatment of neuropathic pain: Design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationships. Bioorg Med Chem 2010; 18:7675-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2010.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2010] [Revised: 07/14/2010] [Accepted: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Goeldner C, Reiss D, Kieffer BL, Ouagazzal AM. Endogenous nociceptin/orphanin-FQ in the dorsal hippocampus facilitates despair-related behavior. Hippocampus 2010; 20:911-6. [PMID: 20087887 PMCID: PMC4494786 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin-FQ (N/OFQ) peptide and its receptor (NOP: N/OFQ opioid peptide receptor) are highly expressed in the hippocampus, but their functional role remains poorly understood. We recently showed that hippocampal N/OFQ inhibits learning and memory abilities in mice. Here, we investigated whether the endogenous peptide also regulated emotional responses at the level of the hippocampus. Bilateral infusions of the selective NOP receptor antagonist, UFP-101 (1-3 nmol/side), into the dorsal hippocampus produced antidepressant-like effects in the mouse forced swim and tail suspension tests comparable with those obtained with the prototypical antidepressant, fluoxetine (10-30 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). In the light-dark test, neither UFP-101 (1-3 nmol/side) nor N/OFQ peptide (1-3 nmol/side) modified anxiety measures when injected at behaviorally active doses in the dorsal hippocampus. These findings show a clear dissociation in the involvement of hippocampal N/OFQ system in anxiety- and despair-related behaviors. We conclude that the dorsal hippocampus is a brain region in which there is an important N/OFQ modulation of mnemonic processes and adaptive emotional responses associated to despair states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Goeldner
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67000 France
- IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), Département de Neurobiologie et Génétique Illkirch, F-67404 France; Inserm, U596, Illkirch, F-67404 France; CNRS, UMR7104, Illkirch, F-67404 France
| | - David Reiss
- IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), Département de Neurobiologie et Génétique Illkirch, F-67404 France; Inserm, U596, Illkirch, F-67404 France; CNRS, UMR7104, Illkirch, F-67404 France
| | - Brigitte L. Kieffer
- IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), Département de Neurobiologie et Génétique Illkirch, F-67404 France; Inserm, U596, Illkirch, F-67404 France; CNRS, UMR7104, Illkirch, F-67404 France
| | - Abdel-Mouttalib Ouagazzal
- IGBMC (Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire), Département de Neurobiologie et Génétique Illkirch, F-67404 France; Inserm, U596, Illkirch, F-67404 France; CNRS, UMR7104, Illkirch, F-67404 France
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26
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Calo' G, Rizzi A, Cifani C, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Regoli D, Massi M, Salvadori S, Lambert DG, Guerrini R. UFP-112 a potent and long-lasting agonist selective for the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ receptor. CNS Neurosci Ther 2010; 17:178-98. [PMID: 20497197 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2009.00107.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) controls several biological functions via selective activation of the N/OFQ peptide receptor (NOP). [(pF)Phe(4) Aib(7) Arg(14) Lys(15) ]N/OFQ-NH(2) (UFP-112) is an NOP receptor ligand designed using a combination of several chemical modifications in the same peptide sequence that increase NOP receptor affinity/potency and/or reduce susceptibility to enzymatic degradation. In the present review article, we summarize data from the literature and present original findings on the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological features of UFP-112. Moreover, important biological actions and possible therapeutic indications of NOP receptor agonists are discussed based on the results obtained with UFP-112 and compared with other peptide and nonpeptide NOP receptor ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girolamo Calo'
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Pharmacology and Neuroscience Center, University of Ferrara, and National Institute of Neuroscience, Ferrara, Italy.
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Abstract
This paper is the 31st consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2008 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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28
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Hayashi S, Hirao A, Nakamura H, Yamamura K, Mizuno K, Yamashita H. Discovery of 1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-[(3R)-3-piperidinyl]-1H-benzimidazole: integrated drug-design and structure-activity relationships for orally potent, metabolically stable and potential-risk reduced novel non-peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor agonist as antianxiety drug. Chem Biol Drug Des 2009; 74:369-81. [PMID: 19691471 DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-0285.2009.00872.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders, caused by continuous or acute stress or fear, have been highly prevailing psychiatric disorders. For the acute treatment of the disorders, benzodiazepines have been widely used despite having liabilities that limit their utility. Alternatively, endogenous nociceptin/orphanin FQ and nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor (or opioid-receptor-like-1 receptor) have important roles in the integration of emotional components, e.g. anxiolytic activity is the key behavioral action of nociceptin/orphanin FQ in brain. In our preceding study, various structurally novel 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazole derivatives were designed and synthesized as highly potent nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor selective full agonists in vitro with high or moderate nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor occupancy in the mice brain per os based on appropriate physicochemical properties for the oral brain activity [Hayashi et al. (2009) J Med Chem;52:610-625]. In the present study, drug design and structure-activity relationships for Vogel anticonflict activities in mice per os, metabolic stabilities in human liver microsome, CYP2D6 inhibitions, serum protein bindings, and human ether-a-go-go related gene binding affinities of novel nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor agonists were investigated. Through the series of coherent drug discovery studies, the strongest nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor agonist, 1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-[(3R)-3-piperidinyl]-1H-benzimidazole was designed and identified as a new-class orally potent anxiolytic with little side-effects, as significant findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Hayashi
- Pfizer Global Research & Development Nagoya Laboratories, Pfizer Japan Inc, 5-2 Taketoyo, Aichi 470-2393, Japan.
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Nazzaro C, Marino S, Barbieri M, Siniscalchi A. Inhibition of serotonin outflow by nociceptin/orphaninFQ in dorsal raphe nucleus slices from normal and stressed rats: Role of corticotropin releasing factor. Neurochem Int 2009; 54:378-84. [PMID: 19418633 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2009.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) many inputs converge and interact to modulate serotonergic neuronal activity and the behavioral responses to stress. The effects exerted by two stress-related neuropeptides, corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and nociceptin/orphaninFQ (N/OFQ), on the outflow of [(3)H]5- hydroxytryptamine were investigated in superfused rat dorsal raphe nucleus slices. Electrical stimulation (100 mA, 1 ms for 2 min) evoked a frequency-dependent peak of [(3)H]5- hydroxytryptamine outflow, which was sodium and calcium-dependent. Corticotropin releasing factor (1-100 nM), concentration-dependently inhibited the stimulation (3 Hz)-evoked [(3)H]5-hydroxytryptamine outflow; the inhibition by 30 nM corticotropin releasing factor (to 68 +/- 5.7%) was prevented both by the non selective CRF receptor antagonist alpha-helicalCRF(9-41) (alpha-HEL) (300 nM) and by the CRF(1) receptor antagonist antalarmin (ANT) (100 nM). The CRF(2) agonist urocortin II (10 nM) did not modify [(3)H]5- hydroxytryptamine outflow, ruling out the involvement of CRF(2) receptors. Bicuculline (BIC), a GABAA antagonist (10 microM), prevented the inhibitory effect of corticotropin releasing factor (30 nM), supporting the hypothesis that the inhibition was mediated by increased gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release. Nociceptin/ orphaninFQ (1 nM-1 microM) exerted an antalarmin- and bicuculline-insensitive inhibition on [(3)H]5- hydroxytryptamine outflow, with the maximum at 100 nM (to 63+/- 4.2%), antagonized by the NOP receptor antagonist UFP-101 (1 microM). Dorsal raphe nucleus slices prepared from rats exposed to 15 min of forced swim stress displayed a reduced [(3)H]5-hydroxytryptamine outflow, in part reversed by antalarmin and further inhibited by nociceptin/orphaninFQ. These findings indicate that (i) both corticotropin releasing factor and nociceptin/orphaninFQ exert an inhibitory control on dorsal raphe nucleus serotonergic neurons; (ii) the inhibition by corticotropin releasing factor involves gamma-aminobutyric acid neurons; (iii) nociceptin/ orphaninFQ inhibits dorsal raphe nucleus serotonin system in a corticotropin releasing factor- and gamma-aminobutyric acid-independent manner; (iv) nociceptin/orphaninFQ modulation is still operant in slices prepared from stressed rats. The nociceptin/orphaninFQ-NOP receptor system could represent a new target for drugs effective in stress-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Nazzaro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Italy
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Hayashi S, Hirao A, Imai A, Nakamura H, Murata Y, Ohashi K, Nakata E. Novel non-peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor agonist, 1-[1-(1-Methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-[(3R)-3-piperidinyl]-1H-benzimidazole: design, synthesis, and structure-activity relationship of oral receptor occupancy in the brain for orally potent antianxiety drug. J Med Chem 2009; 52:610-25. [PMID: 19125610 DOI: 10.1021/jm7012979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
An endogenous heptadecapeptide, nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), and a G-protein-coupled receptor, N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor [or opioid-receptor-like-1 (ORL1) receptor], have been described in terms of its structure, distribution, and pharmacology. Thus, the N/OFQ and NOP receptor are located in the central nervous systems in humans, primates, and rodents, and are involved in the integration of the emotional components in the brain; e.g., N/OFQ displays anxiolytic activity in the brain. For identifying orally potent anxiolytic, drug-design studies were performed with a series of 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazole derivatives, which resulted in the identification of various chemotypes of highly potent NOP selective full agonists in vitro with high or moderate NOP receptor occupancy in the mice brain per os such as 1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-[(3R)-3-piperidinyl]-1H-benzimidazole 1 (MCOPPB), the most potent novel non-peptide NOP full agonist in vitro and an orally potent anxiolytic in the mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Hayashi
- Pfizer Global Research & Development Nagoya Laboratories, Pfizer Japan Inc., 5-2 Taketoyo, Aichi 470-2393, Japan.
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Activation of nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor impairs contextual fear learning in mice through glutamatergic mechanisms. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2009; 91:393-401. [PMID: 19100850 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2008.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2008] [Revised: 11/12/2008] [Accepted: 12/02/2008] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated whether the selective nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor agonist, Ro64-6198, impairs acquisition of fear conditioning through glutamatergic mechanisms. Systemic administration of Ro64-6198 (0.3 and 1mg/kg) or the non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist, MK-801 (0.03 and 0.1mg/kg) prior to conditioning severely impaired contextual but not cued fear learning in C57BL/6N mice. When administered together at sub-effective doses, Ro64-6198 (0.5mg/kg) and MK-801 (0.05mg/kg), synergistically impaired contextual fear learning, but left cued fear learning intact. We next used the immediate shock deficit paradigm (ISD) to examine the effects of Ro64-6198 and MK-801 on contextual memory formation in the absence of the foot-shock. As expected, naive mice that were shocked briefly after being placed in the training chamber displayed no contextual fear conditioning. This learning deficit was elevated by prior exposure of mice to the training context. Furthermore, administration of Ro64-6198 and MK-801, either separately at amnesic doses (1mg/kg and 0.1mg/kg, respectively) or concomitantly at sub-effective doses (0.5mg/kg and 0.05mg/kg, respectively) significantly reduced the facilitating effects of context preexposure. These findings demonstrate the existence of functional antagonism between NOP and NMDA receptors that predominantly contributes to modulation of conditioned fear learning which involves spatial-processing demands.
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