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Lockett J, Inder WJ, Clifton VL. The Glucocorticoid Receptor: Isoforms, Functions, and Contribution to Glucocorticoid Sensitivity. Endocr Rev 2024; 45:593-624. [PMID: 38551091 PMCID: PMC11244253 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnae008] [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: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids exert pleiotropic effects on all tissues to regulate cellular and metabolic homeostasis. Synthetic forms are used therapeutically in a wide range of conditions for their anti-inflammatory benefits, at the cost of dose and duration-dependent side effects. Significant variability occurs between tissues, disease states, and individuals with regard to both the beneficial and deleterious effects. The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is the site of action for these hormones and a vast body of work has been conducted understanding its function. Traditionally, it was thought that the anti-inflammatory benefits of glucocorticoids were mediated by transrepression of pro-inflammatory transcription factors, while the adverse metabolic effects resulted from direct transactivation. This canonical understanding of the GR function has been brought into question over the past 2 decades with advances in the resolution of scientific techniques, and the discovery of multiple isoforms of the receptor present in most tissues. Here we review the structure and function of the GR, the nature of the receptor isoforms, and the contribution of the receptor to glucocorticoid sensitivity, or resistance in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Lockett
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4101, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Warrick J Inder
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Vicki L Clifton
- Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, QLD 4101, Australia
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2
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Pofi R, Caratti G, Ray DW, Tomlinson JW. Treating the Side Effects of Exogenous Glucocorticoids; Can We Separate the Good From the Bad? Endocr Rev 2023; 44:975-1011. [PMID: 37253115 PMCID: PMC10638606 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that 2% to 3% of the population are currently prescribed systemic or topical glucocorticoid treatment. The potent anti-inflammatory action of glucocorticoids to deliver therapeutic benefit is not in doubt. However, the side effects associated with their use, including central weight gain, hypertension, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and osteoporosis, often collectively termed iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome, are associated with a significant health and economic burden. The precise cellular mechanisms underpinning the differential action of glucocorticoids to drive the desirable and undesirable effects are still not completely understood. Faced with the unmet clinical need to limit glucocorticoid-induced adverse effects alongside ensuring the preservation of anti-inflammatory actions, several strategies have been pursued. The coprescription of existing licensed drugs to treat incident adverse effects can be effective, but data examining the prevention of adverse effects are limited. Novel selective glucocorticoid receptor agonists and selective glucocorticoid receptor modulators have been designed that aim to specifically and selectively activate anti-inflammatory responses based upon their interaction with the glucocorticoid receptor. Several of these compounds are currently in clinical trials to evaluate their efficacy. More recently, strategies exploiting tissue-specific glucocorticoid metabolism through the isoforms of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase has shown early potential, although data from clinical trials are limited. The aim of any treatment is to maximize benefit while minimizing risk, and within this review we define the adverse effect profile associated with glucocorticoid use and evaluate current and developing strategies that aim to limit side effects but preserve desirable therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Pofi
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Giorgio Caratti
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - David W Ray
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Kavli Centre for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX37LE, UK
| | - Jeremy W Tomlinson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
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3
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Hysa E, Vojinovic T, Gotelli E, Alessandri E, Pizzorni C, Paolino S, Sulli A, Smith V, Cutolo M. The dichotomy of glucocorticosteroid treatment in immune-inflammatory rheumatic diseases: an evidence-based perspective and insights from clinical practice. Reumatologia 2023; 61:283-293. [PMID: 37745141 PMCID: PMC10515127 DOI: 10.5114/reum/170845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Glucocorticosteroids (GCs) are the most used anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs due to their effectiveness in managing pain and disease modification in many immune-inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs). However, their use is limited because of adverse effects (AEs). Material and methods The authors analyzed recent studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational, translational studies and systematic reviews, providing an in-depth viewpoint on the benefits and drawbacks of GC use in rheumatology. Results Glucocorticosteroids are essential in managing life-threatening autoimmune diseases and a cornerstone in many IRDs given their swift onset of action, necessary in flares. Several RCTs and meta-analyses have demonstrated that when administered over a long time and on a low-dose basis, GC can slow the radiographic progression in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients by at least 50%, satisfying the conventional definition of a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). In the context of RA treatment, the use of modified-release prednisone formulations at night may offer the option of respecting circadian rhythms of both inflammatory response and HPA activation, thereby enabling low-dose GC administration to mitigate nocturnal inflammation and prolonged morning fatigue and joint stiffness. Long-term GC use should be individualized based on patient characteristics and minimized due to their potential AEs. Their chronic use, especially at medium/high dosages, might cause irreversible organ damage due to the burden of metabolic systemic effects and increased risk of infections. Many international guidelines recommend tapering/withdrawal of GCs in sustained remission. Treat-to-target (T2T) strategies are critical in setting targets for disease activity and reducing/discontinuing GCs once control is achieved. Conclusions Glucocorticosteroids' use in treating IRDs should be judicious, focused on minimizing use, tapering and discontinuing treatment, when possible, to improve long-term safety. Glucocorticosteroids remain part of many therapeutic regimens, particularly at low doses, and elderly RA patients, especially with associated chronic comorbidities, may benefit from long-term low-dose GC treatment. A personalized GC therapy is essential for optimal long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvis Hysa
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Tamara Vojinovic
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Emanuele Gotelli
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Elisa Alessandri
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Carmen Pizzorni
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Alberto Sulli
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Vanessa Smith
- Department of Internal Medicine, Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Ghent, Belgium
- Unit for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, VIB Inflammation Research Center (IRC), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy
- IRCCS – San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genova, Italy
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4
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Hanberg JS, Miloslavsky EM. Steroid sparing in vasculitis: Myth or reality? Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2023; 37:101843. [PMID: 37355346 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2023.101843] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are the cornerstone of therapy for all forms of vasculitis. However, glucocorticoid treatment carries with it the risk of glucocorticoid toxicity. Recent research efforts in vasculitis have emphasized investigation into strategies that reduce glucocorticoid exposure. These strategies include the adoption of rapid-acting steroid-sparing agents, reduced-dose glucocorticoid induction regimens, the early introduction of steroid-sparing agents for maintenance therapy, and the extension of maintenance therapy to minimize glucocorticoid exposure associated with disease relapse. These are critical advances to move us toward the goal of glucocorticoid-free treatment of vasculitis. The evidence supporting each of these strategies and directions for future research are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eli M Miloslavsky
- Rheumatology Unit, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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5
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A glucocorticoid-receptor agonist ameliorates bleomycin-induced alveolar simplification in newborn rats. Pediatr Res 2022; 93:1551-1558. [PMID: 36068343 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-022-02257-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glucocorticoids (GCs) are highly effective yet problematic agents against bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). The dimeric trans-activation of GCs induces unfavorable effects, while monomeric trans-repression suppresses inflammation-related genes. Recently, non-steroidal-selective glucocorticoid-receptor agonists and modulators (SEGRAMs) with only the trans-repressive action have been designed. METHODS Using a bleomycin (Bleo)-induced alveolar simplification newborn rat model (recapitulating arrested alveolarization during BPD), we evaluated the therapeutic effects of compound-A (CpdA), a SEGRAM. Sprague-Dawley rats were administered Bleo from postnatal day (PD) 0 to 10 and treated with dexamethasone (Dex) or CpdA from PD 0 to 13. The morphological changes and mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin (IL)-1β, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1), and C-C motif chemokine 2 (CCL2) were investigated. RESULTS Similar to the effects of Dex, CpdA exerted protective effects on morphological derangements and inhibited macrophage infiltration and production of pro-inflammatory mediators in Bleo-treated animals. The effects of CpdA were probably mediated by GC receptor (GR)-dependent trans-repression, because unlike the Dex-treated group, anti-inflammatory genes specifically induced by GR-dependent trans-activation (such as "glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper, GILZ") were not upregulated. CONCLUSIONS CpdA improved lung inflammation, inhibited the arrest of alveolar maturation, and restored histological and biochemical changes in a Bleo-induced alveolar simplification model. IMPACT SEGRAMs have attracted widespread attention because they are expected to not exhibit unfavorable effects of GCs. Compound A, one of the SEGRAMs, improved lung morphometric changes and decreased lung inflammation in a bleomycin-induced arrested alveolarization, a newborn rat model representing one of the main features of BPD pathology. Compound A did not elicit bleomycin-induced poor weight gain, in contrast to dexamethasone treatment. SEGRAMs, including compound A, may be promising candidates for the therapy of BPD with less adverse effects compared with GCs.
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6
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Li JX, Cummins CL. Fresh insights into glucocorticoid-induced diabetes mellitus and new therapeutic directions. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:540-557. [PMID: 35585199 PMCID: PMC9116713 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-022-00683-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid hormones were discovered to have use as potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive therapeutics in the 1940s and their continued use and development have successfully revolutionized the management of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. However, long-term use of glucocorticoids is severely hampered by undesirable metabolic complications, including the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. These effects occur due to glucocorticoid receptor activation within multiple tissues, which results in inter-organ crosstalk that increases hepatic glucose production and inhibits peripheral glucose uptake. Despite the high prevalence of glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycaemia associated with their routine clinical use, treatment protocols for optimal management of the metabolic adverse effects are lacking or underutilized. The type, dose and potency of the glucocorticoid administered dictates the choice of hypoglycaemic intervention (non-insulin or insulin therapy) that should be provided to patients. The longstanding quest to identify dissociated glucocorticoid receptor agonists to separate the hyperglycaemic complications of glucocorticoids from their therapeutically beneficial anti-inflammatory effects is ongoing, with selective glucocorticoid receptor modulators in clinical testing. Promising areas of preclinical research include new mechanisms to disrupt glucocorticoid signalling in a tissue-selective manner and the identification of novel targets that can selectively dissociate the effects of glucocorticoids. These research arms share the ultimate goal of achieving the anti-inflammatory actions of glucocorticoids without the metabolic consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Xu Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Carolyn L Cummins
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Banting and Best Diabetes Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Butz H, Patócs A. Mechanisms behind context-dependent role of glucocorticoids in breast cancer progression. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:803-832. [PMID: 35761157 PMCID: PMC9758252 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10047-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs), mostly dexamethasone (dex), are routinely administered as adjuvant therapy to manage side effects in breast cancer. However, recently, it has been revealed that dex triggers different effects and correlates with opposite outcomes depending on the breast cancer molecular subtype. This has raised new concerns regarding the generalized use of GC and suggested that the context-dependent effects of GCs can be taken into potential consideration during treatment design. Based on this, attention has recently been drawn to the role of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in development and progression of breast cancer. Therefore, in this comprehensive review, we aimed to summarize the different mechanisms behind different context-dependent GC actions in breast cancer by applying a multilevel examination, starting from the association of variants of the GR-encoding gene to expression at the mRNA and protein level of the receptor, and its interactions with other factors influencing GC action in breast cancer. The role of GCs in chemosensitivity and chemoresistance observed during breast cancer therapy is discussed. In addition, experiences using GC targeting therapeutic options (already used and investigated in preclinical and clinical trials), such as classic GC dexamethasone, selective glucocorticoid receptor agonists and modulators, the GC antagonist mifepristone, and GR coregulators, are also summarized. Evidence presented can aid a better understanding of the biology of context-dependent GC action that can lead to further advances in the personalized therapy of breast cancer by the evaluation of GR along with the conventional estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) in the routine diagnostic procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriett Butz
- Department of Molecular Genetics and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences-Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Attila Patócs
- Department of Molecular Genetics and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary
- Hereditary Tumours Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences-Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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8
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Hu W, Jiang C, Kim M, Yang W, Zhu K, Guan D, Lv W, Xiao Y, Wilson JR, Rader DJ, Pui CH, Relling MV, Lazar MA. Individual-specific functional epigenomics reveals genetic determinants of adverse metabolic effects of glucocorticoids. Cell Metab 2021; 33:1592-1609.e7. [PMID: 34233159 PMCID: PMC8340270 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely used as anti-inflammatory drugs, but their long-term use has severe metabolic side effects. Here, by treating multiple individual adipose stem cell-derived adipocytes and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hepatocytes with the potent GC dexamethasone (Dex), we uncovered cell-type-specific and individual-specific GC-dependent transcriptomes and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) cistromes. Individual-specific GR binding could be traced to single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that altered the binding motifs of GR or its cooperating factors. We also discovered another set of genetic variants that modulated Dex response through affecting chromatin accessibility or chromatin architecture. Several SNPs that altered Dex-regulated GR binding and gene expression controlled Dex-driven metabolic perturbations. Remarkably, these genetic variations were highly associated with increases in serum glucose, lipids, and body mass in subjects on GC therapy. Knowledge of the genetic variants that predispose individuals to metabolic side effects allows for a precision medicine approach to the use of clinically relevant GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiang Hu
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; The Max-Planck Center for Tissue Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine, Bioland Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Chunjie Jiang
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mindy Kim
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Wenjian Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Kun Zhu
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Dongyin Guan
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Wenjian Lv
- Division of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yang Xiao
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jessica R Wilson
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daniel J Rader
- Department of Genetics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ching-Hon Pui
- Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Mary V Relling
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Mitchell A Lazar
- Institute for Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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9
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Zhidkova EM, Lylova ES, Savinkova AV, Mertsalov SA, Kirsanov KI, Belitsky GA, Yakubovskaya MG, Lesovaya EA. A Brief Overview of the Paradoxical Role of Glucocorticoids in Breast Cancer. BREAST CANCER-BASIC AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2020; 14:1178223420974667. [PMID: 33424228 PMCID: PMC7755940 DOI: 10.1177/1178223420974667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) are stress hormones that play multiple roles in the regulation of cancer cell differentiation, apoptosis, and proliferation. Some types of cancers, such as hematological malignancies, can be effectively treated by GCs, whereas the responses of epithelial cancers to GC treatment vary, even within cancer subtypes. In particular, GCs are frequently used as supporting treatment of breast cancer (BC) to protect against chemotherapy side effects. In the therapy of nonaggressive luminal subtypes of BC, GCs can have auxiliary antitumor effects due to their cytotoxic actions on cancer cells. However, GCs can promote BC progression, colonization of distant metastatic sites, and metastasis. The effects of GCs on cell proliferation vary with BC subtype and its molecular profile and are realized via the activation of glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a well-known transcriptional factor involved in the regulation of the expression of multiple genes, cell-cell adhesion, and cell migration and polarity. This review focuses on the roles of GC signaling in the adhesion, migration, and metastasis of BC cells. We discuss the molecular mechanisms of GC actions that lead to BC metastasis and propose alternative pharmacological uses of GCs for BC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina M Zhidkova
- Department of Oncology, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeniya S Lylova
- Department of Oncology, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alena V Savinkova
- Department of Oncology, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Kirill I Kirsanov
- Department of Oncology, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia.,Department of General Medical Practice, RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady A Belitsky
- Department of Oncology, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marianna G Yakubovskaya
- Department of Oncology, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A Lesovaya
- Department of Oncology, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow, Russia.,I.P. Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russia
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10
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Yang M, Chen J, Wei W. Dimerization of glucocorticoid receptors and its role in inflammation and immune responses. Pharmacol Res 2020; 166:105334. [PMID: 33276107 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) plays an irreplaceable role in inflammation and immune responses, fat metabolism and sugar metabolism, it is often used for the treatment of asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and allergic rhinitis clinically, but long-term or high-dose use will produce adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Its biological action is mediated by glucocorticoid receptors (GRs), of which the oligomerization state is closely related to the target gene of which the GRs act. A leading hypothesis is that the beneficial anti-inflammatory effects of GCs occur through the transrepression mechanism mediated by GR monomers, while ADRs may be dependent on the transactivation mechanism mediated by GR dimers. However, in recent years, multiple studies have shown that the transactivation and transrepression functions of the GR dimer also confer anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, some studies have shown that some selective glucocorticoid receptor agonists and modulators (SEGRAMs) have good separation characteristics (i.e., preferentially mediate the transrepression of proinflammatory genes or preferentially activate anti-inflammatory target genes). This article reviewed the formation of GR dimers, the role of GR dimers in the inflammation and immune responses, and the progress of SEGRAMs to provide novel ideas for further understanding the anti-inflammatory mechanism of GR and the development of SEGRAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Yang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Meishan Road 81, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jingyu Chen
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Meishan Road 81, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Wei Wei
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Collaborative Innovation Center of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Meishan Road 81, Hefei, 230032, China.
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11
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Disruption of a key ligand-H-bond network drives dissociative properties in vamorolone for Duchenne muscular dystrophy treatment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:24285-24293. [PMID: 32917814 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2006890117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder that shows chronic and progressive damage to skeletal and cardiac muscle leading to premature death. Antiinflammatory corticosteroids targeting the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) are the current standard of care but drive adverse side effects such as deleterious bone loss. Through subtle modification to a steroidal backbone, a recently developed drug, vamorolone, appears to preserve beneficial efficacy but with significantly reduced side effects. We use combined structural, biophysical, and biochemical approaches to show that loss of a receptor-ligand hydrogen bond drives these remarkable therapeutic effects. Moreover, vamorolone uniformly weakens coactivator associations but not corepressor associations, implicating partial agonism as the main driver of its dissociative properties. Additionally, we identify a critical and evolutionarily conserved intramolecular network connecting the ligand to the coregulator binding surface. Interruption of this allosteric network by vamorolone selectively reduces GR-driven transactivation while leaving transrepression intact. Our results establish a mechanistic understanding of how vamorolone reduces side effects, guiding the future design of partial agonists as selective GR modulators with an improved therapeutic index.
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12
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Almquist J, Sadiq MW, Eriksson UG, Hegelund Myrbäck T, Prothon S, Leander J. Estimation of Equipotent Doses for Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Prednisolone and AZD9567, an Oral Selective Nonsteroidal Glucocorticoid Receptor Modulator. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2020; 9:444-455. [PMID: 32501650 PMCID: PMC7438818 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AZD9567 is a potent and selective nonsteroidal oral glucocorticoid receptor modulator. It is developed as an anti-inflammatory drug with improved safety profile compared with steroids like prednisolone. Throughout the clinical development of AZD9567, dose selection and data interpretation require a method for determining doses with the same anti-inflammatory effect as prednisolone. Equipotent doses of AZD9567 and prednisolone were defined by the same average inhibition of TNFα release, a biomarker of anti-inflammatory effect, measured in a lipopolysaccharide-stimulated whole blood ex vivo assay. Based on pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic models, TNFα dose-response relationships for AZD9567 and prednisolone were established. A comparison of the dose-response curves enabled estimation of an equipotency relationship. Specifically, 20 mg prednisolone was estimated to be equipotent to 40 mg AZD9567 (95% confidence interval: 29-54 mg). Static concentration-response analyses showed that the relative potencies for inhibition of TNFα release of AZD9567 and prednisolone were well aligned with several other pro-inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Almquist
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative PharmacologyClinical Pharmacology and Safety SciencesR&D, AstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Muhammad Waqas Sadiq
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative PharmacologyClinical Pharmacology and Safety SciencesR&D, AstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Ulf G. Eriksson
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative PharmacologyClinical Pharmacology and Safety SciencesR&D, AstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Tove Hegelund Myrbäck
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative PharmacologyClinical Pharmacology and Safety SciencesR&D, AstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Susanne Prothon
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative PharmacologyClinical Pharmacology and Safety SciencesR&D, AstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
| | - Jacob Leander
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative PharmacologyClinical Pharmacology and Safety SciencesR&D, AstraZenecaGothenburgSweden
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13
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Berardicurti O, Ruscitti P, Pavlych V, Conforti A, Giacomelli R, Cipriani P. Glucocorticoids in rheumatoid arthritis: the silent companion in the therapeutic strategy. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2020; 13:593-604. [PMID: 32434398 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2020.1772055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glucocorticoids (GCs) are key actors in RA management, despite the increasing number of available drugs. In fact, due to their efficacy and safety, the combination therapy between GCs and conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) is still recommended in the early phase of RA treatment, because improving the long-term results. AREAS COVERED In this paper, we reviewed the role of GCs in RA management, focusing on mechanisms of action as well as the benefit/risk ratio of GCs and newer therapeutic formulations. Furthermore, we analyzed GCs DMARDs proprieties on disease activity and their long-term effects on radiographic damage. We designed a narrative review aimed to provide an overview concerning GCs in RA management. EXPERT OPINION A large amount of evidence supports the use of GCs in RA, especially in the earliest phases of the disease. Besides GCs symptomatic effects due to their strong anti-inflammatory effects, data from several randomized clinical trials have shown a substantial benefit of low-dose GCs in inhibiting the radiographic damage, thus highlighting GCs DMARDs properties. Besides their recognized role in the treatment of early RA, systematic monitoring of adverse events should be recommended to minimize GCs toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onorina Berardicurti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of L'Aquila , L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Piero Ruscitti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of L'Aquila , L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Viktoriya Pavlych
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of L'Aquila , L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of L'Aquila , L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Roberto Giacomelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of L'Aquila , L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Paola Cipriani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Rheumatology Unit, University of L'Aquila , L'Aquila, Italy
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14
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Views on glucocorticoid therapy in rheumatology: the age of convergence. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:239-246. [PMID: 32076129 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0370-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
After decades of sometimes fierce debate about the advantages and disadvantages of glucocorticoids, an age of convergence has been reached. Current recommendations for the management of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), polymyalgia rheumatica and large vessel vasculitis reflect the current consensus that as much glucocorticoid as necessary, but as little as possible, should be used. Over the past few years, a range of glucocorticoid-sparing strategies have been developed, as have tools to improve the management of this therapy. A comprehensive view of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis has also emerged that recognizes that bone fragility is not solely determined by the dose and duration of glucocorticoid treatment. Nevertheless, open questions remain around whether long-term use of very low doses of glucocorticoids is a realistic option for patients with RA and whether the search for innovative glucocorticoids or glucocorticoid receptor ligands with improved benefit-to-risk ratios will ultimately be successful.
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15
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Hardy RS, Raza K, Cooper MS. Therapeutic glucocorticoids: mechanisms of actions in rheumatic diseases. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2020; 16:133-144. [PMID: 32034322 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-020-0371-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic glucocorticoids have been widely used in rheumatic diseases since they became available over 60 years ago. Despite the advent of more specific biologic therapies, a notable proportion of individuals with chronic rheumatic diseases continue to be treated with these drugs. Glucocorticoids are powerful, broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory agents, but their use is complicated by an equally broad range of adverse effects. The specific cellular mechanisms by which glucocorticoids have their therapeutic action have been difficult to identify, and attempts to develop more selective drugs on the basis of the action of glucocorticoids have proven difficult. The actions of glucocorticoids seem to be highly cell-type and context dependent. Despite emerging data on the effect of tissue-specific manipulation of glucocorticoid receptors in mouse models of inflammation, the cell types and intracellular targets of glucocorticoids in rheumatic diseases have not been fully identified. Although showing some signs of decline, the use of systemic glucocorticoids in rheumatology is likely to continue to be widespread, and careful consideration is required by rheumatologists to balance the beneficial effects and deleterious effects of these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan S Hardy
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mark S Cooper
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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16
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Buttgereit F. Can we shift the benefit-risk ratio of glucocorticoids? THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2020; 2:e5-e6. [PMID: 38258276 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(19)30138-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Buttgereit
- Charité University Medicine, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Berlin 10117, Germany.
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17
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Ehrchen JM, Roth J, Barczyk-Kahlert K. More Than Suppression: Glucocorticoid Action on Monocytes and Macrophages. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2028. [PMID: 31507614 PMCID: PMC6718555 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncontrolled inflammation is a leading cause of many clinically relevant diseases. Current therapeutic strategies focus mainly on immunosuppression rather than on the mechanisms of inflammatory resolution. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are still the most widely used anti-inflammatory drugs. GCs affect most immune cells but there is growing evidence for cell type specific mechanisms. Different subtypes of monocytes and macrophages play a pivotal role both in generation as well as resolution of inflammation. Activation of these cells by microbial products or endogenous danger signals results in production of pro-inflammatory mediators and initiation of an inflammatory response. GCs efficiently inhibit these processes by down-regulating pro-inflammatory mediators from macrophages and monocytes. On the other hand, GCs act on “naïve” monocytes and macrophages and induce anti-inflammatory mediators and differentiation of anti-inflammatory phenotypes. GC-induced anti-inflammatory monocytes have an increased ability to migrate toward inflammatory stimuli. They remove endo- and exogenous danger signals by an increased phagocytic capacity, produce anti-inflammatory mediators and limit T-cell activation. Thus, GCs limit amplification of inflammation by repressing pro-inflammatory macrophage activation and additionally induce anti-inflammatory monocyte and macrophage populations actively promoting resolution of inflammation. Further investigation of these mechanisms should lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies to modulate undesirable inflammation with fewer side effects via induction of inflammatory resolution rather than non-specific immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M Ehrchen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Johannes Roth
- Institute of Immunology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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18
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Lin X, Zhang HQ, Shou LH, Shen XL, Zhang ZX. Efficacy of vitamin D plus calcium with/without alendronate on bone metabolism in immunologic thrombocytopenic purpura patients with steroid treatment: Nine-month results of a randomized, double-blinded, controlled trial. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:1391-1398. [PMID: 31363377 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone loss is a prominent complication in immunologic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) patients with steroid treatment. Anti-osteoporotic medications are applied as a therapeutic strategy to prevent bone deterioration in ITP patients. However, the skeletal protective effect of alendronate (ALN) in ITP patients has been rarely reported. The present study was performed to determine whether ALN reduces bone loss in ITP patients. A total of 40 ITP patients with steroid treatment were randomized into a placebo group [n=20; caltrate D (CalD)] and an ALN (10 mg/day) + CalD group (n=20). The patients received CalD or CalD + ALN treatment for 9 months. The primary outcomes were bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar vertebrae (L1-L4), femoral neck and total hip, as well as bone metabolism markers. The results indicated that the BMD of the lumbar vertebrae (L1-L4), femoral neck and total hip was significantly increased after ALN + CalD treatment for at 6 and 9 months compared with the baseline. Compared with CalD treatment alone, CalD combined with ALN significantly elevated the BMD at the three skeletal sites at 9 months. Compared with the baseline levels or CalD treatment alone, ALN together with CalD treatment markedly reduced urinary Ca excretion and the serum levels of the bone resorption markers tartrate resistant acid phosphatase 5b and C-terminal telopeptides of type 1 collagen, at 9 months. In conclusion, treatment with ALN together with CalD significantly elevated the BMD at three skeletal sites, and inhibited urinary Ca excretion and the activity of bone resorption markers in patients with ITP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Lin
- Department of Hematology, The First People's Hospital of Huzhou, The First Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang 313000, P.R. China
| | - Hui-Qi Zhang
- Department of Hematology, The First People's Hospital of Huzhou, The First Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang 313000, P.R. China
| | - Li-Hong Shou
- Department of Hematology, Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang 313003, P.R. China
| | - Xiang-Li Shen
- Department of Hematology, The First People's Hospital of Huzhou, The First Affiliated Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang 313000, P.R. China
| | - Zong-Xin Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang 313003, P.R. China
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19
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Louw A. GR Dimerization and the Impact of GR Dimerization on GR Protein Stability and Half-Life. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1693. [PMID: 31379877 PMCID: PMC6653659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacologically, glucocorticoids, which mediate their effects via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), are a most effective therapy for inflammatory diseases despite the fact that chronic use causes side-effects and acquired GC resistance. The design of drugs with fewer side-effects and less potential for the development of resistance is therefore considered crucial for improved therapy. Dimerization of the GR is an integral step in glucocorticoid signaling and has been identified as a possible molecular site to target for drug development of anti-inflammatory drugs with an improved therapeutic index. Most of the current understanding regarding the role of GR dimerization in GC signaling derives for dimerization deficient mutants, although the role of ligands biased toward monomerization has also been described. Even though designing for loss of dimerization has mostly been applied for reduction of side-effect profile, designing for loss of dimerization may also be a fruitful strategy for the development of GC drugs with less potential to develop GC resistance. GC-induced resistance affects up to 30% of users and is due to a reduction in the GR functional pool. Several molecular mechanisms of GC-mediated reductions in GR pool have been described, one of which is the autologous down-regulation of GR density by the ubiquitin-proteasome-system (UPS). Loss of GR dimerization prevents autologous down-regulation of the receptor through modulation of interactions with components of the UPS and post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as phosphorylation, which prime the GR for degradation. Rational design of conformationally biased ligands that select for a monomeric GR conformation, which increases GC sensitivity through improving GR protein stability and increasing half-life, may be a productive avenue to explore. However, potential drawbacks to this approach should be considered as well as the advantages and disadvantages in chronic vs. acute treatment regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Louw
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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20
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Petta I, Peene I, Elewaut D, Vereecke L, De Bosscher K. Risks and benefits of corticosteroids in arthritic diseases in the clinic. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 165:112-125. [PMID: 30978323 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) constitute a first line treatment for many autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Due to their potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions, GCs are added frequently to disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in various arthritic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. However, their prolonged administration or administration at high doses is associated with adverse effects that may be (quality of) life-threatening, including osteoporosis, metabolic, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects. In this review, we summarize the clinical and pharmacological effects of GCs in different arthritic diseases, while documenting the current research efforts towards the identification of novel and more efficient GCs with reduced side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Petta
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Gut Inflammation Group (GGIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Peene
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Rheumatology, AZ SintJan, Ruddershove 10, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
| | - Dirk Elewaut
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Gut Inflammation Group (GGIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lars Vereecke
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Gut Inflammation Group (GGIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karolien De Bosscher
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Translational Nuclear Receptor Research, VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, Albert Baertsoenkaai 3, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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21
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Abstract
The glucocorticoid hormone cortisol acts throughout the body to support circadian processes and adaptation to stress. The glucocorticoid receptor is the target of cortisol and of synthetic glucocorticoids, which are used widely in the clinic. Both agonism and antagonism of the glucocorticoid receptor may be beneficial in disease, but given the wide expression of the receptor and involvement in various processes, beneficial effects are often accompanied by unwanted side effects. Selective glucocorticoid receptor modulators are ligands that induce a receptor conformation that allows activation of only a subset of downstream signaling pathways. Such molecules thereby combine agonistic and antagonistic properties. Here we discuss the mechanisms underlying selective receptor modulation and their promise in treating diseases in several organ systems where cortisol signaling plays a role.
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