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Hooshmandi E, Akbari S, Pandamooz S, Ghobadi M, Ghasemi R, Maghsoudi N, Rai SN, Borhani-Haghighi A, Salehi MS, Azarpira N, YousefiNejad A, Haghani M, Bayat M. Combined use of hair follicle stem cells and CEPO (carbamylated erythropoietin)-Fc in a rat model of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion: A behavioral, electrophysiological, and molecular study. Behav Brain Res 2023; 454:114655. [PMID: 37666305 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In dementia, synaptic dysfunction appears before neuronal loss. Stem cell therapy could potentially provide a promising strategy for the treatment of dementia models. The carbamylated erythropoietin fusion protein (CEPO-Fc) has shown synaptotrophic effects. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of the combined use of hair follicle stem cells (HFSC) and CEPO-Fc in the basal synaptic transmission (BST) and long-term plasticity (LTP) of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) rats. METHODS We divided 64 adult rats into control, sham, CCH+vehicle, CCH+CEPO, CCH+HFSC, and CCH+HFSC+CEPO groups. The CEPO-Fc was injected three times/week for 30 days. HFSC transplantation was done on days 4, 14, and 21 after surgery. The Morris water maze test and passive avoidance were used to assess memory. BST and LTP were assessed by a field-potential recording of the CA1 region. The hippocampal mRNA expression of IGF-1, TGF-β1, β1-Catenine, NR2B, PSD-95, and GSk-3β was evaluated by quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS Following combination therapy, spatial memory retention, and BST showed significant improvement relative to HFSC and CEPO-Fc groups. These effects were also confirmed by recovered mRNA expression of β1-catenin, TGF-β1, and NR2B. GSK-3β expression was downregulated in all treatment groups. The upregulated PSD-95 was identified in HFSC and combination groups compared to the vehicle group. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that the combined use of HFSC and CEPO-Fc may be more advantageous for treating memory disruption in the CCH model than CEPO-Fc or HFSC alone. This type of combination therapy may hopefully lead to a new approach to treatment for dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etrat Hooshmandi
- Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Somayeh Akbari
- Department of Physiology, The Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran; Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sareh Pandamooz
- Stem Cells Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Mojtaba Ghobadi
- Department of Physiology, The Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Rasoul Ghasemi
- Neurophysiology Research Center and Physiology Department, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Nader Maghsoudi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | | | - Afshin Borhani-Haghighi
- Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Mohammad Saied Salehi
- Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Mohammad Rasoul-Allah Research Tower, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Amirhossein YousefiNejad
- Department of Physiology, The Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Masoud Haghani
- Department of Physiology, The Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran; Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Mahnaz Bayat
- Department of Physiology, The Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, the Islamic Republic of Iran.
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Fang M, Zhou J, Huang S, Zhang Y, He Y, Zeng Y, Song Y. Recombinant human erythropoietin plus methylprednisolone versus methylprednisolone in treatment of acute spinal cord injury:protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056689. [PMID: 36600375 PMCID: PMC9730378 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent studies in animal models indicate that recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) is very effective in enhancing neurological recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). We described a protocol aimed at evaluating the efficacy of rHuEPO plus methylprednisolone (MP) compared with MP alone in improving neurological function of patients with SCI in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study aims to explore the effect of rHuEPO combined with MP on neurological function in patients with SCI through a meta-analysis. To this end, the authors will search eight research databases for data retrieval: MEDLINE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang, China Biology Medicine dis, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane and Embase for RCTs on SCI in any language. The primary outcome will be the American Spinal Injury Association score at the time of follow-up. The secondary outcomes will be the WHOQOL-100 instrument score, neurophysiological state and related factors. Two authors will independently search literature records, scan titles, abstracts and full texts, collect data, and assess materials for risk of bias. Stata V.14.0 will be used for statistical analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This research is exempt from ethics approval because the work is carried out on published documents. We will disseminate this protocol in scientific conferences and a peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021260688.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Fang
- Department of orthopedics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
- Department of orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiaojiao Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shishu Huang
- Department of orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yonggang Zhang
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu He
- Department of orthopedics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong Zeng
- Department of orthopedics, Chengdu Second People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yueming Song
- Department of orthopedics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Ureña-Guerrero ME, Castañeda-Cabral JL, Rivera-Cervantes MC, Macias-Velez RJ, Jarero-Basulto JJ, Gudiño-Cabrera G, Beas-Zárate C. Neuroprotective and Neurorestorative Effects of Epo and VEGF: Perspectives for New Therapeutic Approaches to Neurological Diseases. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:1263-1276. [PMID: 31942853 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200114104342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erythropoietin (Epo) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are two vasoactive molecules with essential trophic effects for brain development. The expression and secretion of both molecules increase in response to neuronal damage and they exert protective and restorative effects, which may also be accompanied by adverse side effects. OBJECTIVE We review the most relevant evidence on the neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects of Epo and VEGF in three of the most frequent neurological disorders, namely, stroke, epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease, to develop new therapeutic approaches. METHODS Several original scientific manuscripts and reviews that have discussed the evidence in critical way, considering both the beneficial and adverse effects of Epo and VEGF in the selected neurological disorders, were analysed. In addition, throughout this review, we propose several considerations to take into account in the design of therapeutic approaches based on Epo and VEGF signalling. RESULTS Although the three selected disorders are triggered by different mechanisms, they evolve through similar processes: excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, neuronal death, glial reactivity and vascular remodelling. Epo and VEGF exert neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects by acting on these processes due to their pleiotropism. In general, the evidence shows that both Epo and VEGF reduce neuronal death but that at the vascular level, their effects are contradictory. CONCLUSION Because the Epo and VEGF signalling pathways are connected in several ways, we conclude that more experimental studies, primarily studies designed to thoroughly assess the functional interactions between Epo and VEGF in the brain under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica E Ureña-Guerrero
- Departamento de Biologia Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias (CUCBA), Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - José L Castañeda-Cabral
- Departamento de Biologia Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias (CUCBA), Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico.,Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV sede Sur), IPN, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Martha C Rivera-Cervantes
- Departamento de Biologia Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias (CUCBA), Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Rafael J Macias-Velez
- Departamento de Biologia Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias (CUCBA), Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - José J Jarero-Basulto
- Departamento de Biologia Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias (CUCBA), Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Graciela Gudiño-Cabrera
- Departamento de Biologia Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias (CUCBA), Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Carlos Beas-Zárate
- Departamento de Biologia Celular y Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias (CUCBA), Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
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Effect of carbamylated erythropoietin Fc fusion protein (CEPO-Fc) on learning and memory impairment and hippocampal apoptosis induced by intracerebroventricular administration of streptozotocin in rats. Behav Brain Res 2020; 384:112554. [PMID: 32057828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of streptozotocin (STZ) has been used as a metabolic model of sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD). Erythropoietin (EPO) possesses neuroprotective and memory-improving effects, which might be advantageous in treating different characteristics of AD. Nevertheless, the hematopoietic effect of EPO has hindered its application as a neuroprotective agent. Previous studies have shown that a new Epo derivative called carbamylated Erythropoietin-Fc (CEPO-Fc), yield noticeable neuroprotective effects without affecting hematopoiesis. In this study, the neuroprotective effects of CEPO-Fc on icv-STZ induced memory impairment and hippocampal apoptosis were examined. Adult male Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g were used. STZ was administered on days 1 and 3 (3 mg/kg in divided doses/icv), and CEPO-Fc was administered at the dose of 5000 IU/ip/daily during days 4-14. The animals were trained in Morris water maze during days 15-17, and the memory retention test was performed on the 18th day. Following behavioral studies, the animals were sacrificed and their hippocampi isolated to determine the amounts of cleaved caspase-3 (the landmark of apoptosis). The results showed that CEPO-Fc treatment at the dose of 5000 IU/kg/ip was able to prevent the learning and memory deficit induced by icv-STZ. Western blot analysis revealed that STZ prompted the cleavage of caspase-3 in the hippocampus while pretreatment with CEPO-Fc significantly reduced the cleavage of this protein. Collectively, our findings suggest that CEPO-Fc could restore STZ-induced learning and memory impairment as well as apoptosis in the hippocampal region in a rat model of sporadic AD induced by icv-STZ.
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Gallart-Palau X, Tan LM, Serra A, Gao Y, Ho HH, Richards AM, Kandiah N, Chen CP, Kalaria RN, Sze SK. Degenerative protein modifications in the aging vasculature and central nervous system: A problem shared is not always halved. Ageing Res Rev 2019; 53:100909. [PMID: 31116994 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2019.100909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Aging influences the pathogenesis and progression of several major diseases affecting both the cardiovascular system (CVS) and central nervous system (CNS). Defining the common molecular features that underpin these disorders in these crucial body systems will likely lead to increased quality of life and improved 'health-span' in the global aging population. Degenerative protein modifications (DPMs) have been strongly implicated in the molecular pathogenesis of several age-related diseases affecting the CVS and CNS, including atherosclerosis, heart disease, dementia syndromes, and stroke. However, these isolated findings have yet to be integrated into a wider framework, which considers the possibility that, despite their distinct features, CVS and CNS disorders may in fact be closely related phenomena. In this work, we review the current literature describing molecular roles of the major age-associated DPMs thought to significantly impact on human health, including carbamylation, citrullination and deamidation. In particular, we focus on data indicating that specific DPMs are shared between multiple age-related diseases in both CVS and CNS settings. By contextualizing these data, we aim to assist future studies in defining the universal mechanisms that underpin both vascular and neurological manifestations of age-related protein degeneration.
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Adav SS, Sze SK. Insight of brain degenerative protein modifications in the pathology of neurodegeneration and dementia by proteomic profiling. Mol Brain 2016; 9:92. [PMID: 27809929 PMCID: PMC5094070 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-016-0272-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia is a syndrome associated with a wide range of clinical features including progressive cognitive decline and patient inability to self-care. Due to rapidly increasing prevalence in aging society, dementia now confers a major economic, social, and healthcare burden throughout the world, and has therefore been identified as a public health priority by the World Health Organization. Previous studies have established dementia as a 'proteinopathy' caused by detrimental changes in brain protein structure and function that promote misfolding, aggregation, and deposition as insoluble amyloid plaques. Despite clear evidence that pathological cognitive decline is associated with degenerative protein modifications (DPMs) arising from spontaneous chemical modifications to amino acid side chains, the molecular mechanisms that promote brain DPMs formation remain poorly understood. However, the technical challenges associated with DPM analysis have recently become tractable due to powerful new proteomic techniques that facilitate detailed analysis of brain tissue damage over time. Recent studies have identified that neurodegenerative diseases are associated with the dysregulation of critical repair enzymes, as well as the misfolding, aggregation and accumulation of modified brain proteins. Future studies will further elucidate the mechanisms underlying dementia pathogenesis via the quantitative profiling of the human brain proteome and associated DPMs in distinct phases and subtypes of disease. This review summarizes recent developments in quantitative proteomic technologies, describes how these techniques have been applied to the study of dementia-linked changes in brain protein structure and function, and briefly outlines how these findings might be translated into novel clinical applications for dementia patients. In this review, only spontaneous protein modifications such as deamidation, oxidation, nitration glycation and carbamylation are reviewed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil S. Adav
- Division of Structural Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551 Singapore
| | - Siu Kwan Sze
- Division of Structural Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551 Singapore
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Chen J, Yang Z, Zhang X. Carbamylated Erythropoietin: A Prospective Drug Candidate for Neuroprotection. BIOCHEMISTRY INSIGHTS 2016; 8:25-9. [PMID: 26862298 PMCID: PMC4743684 DOI: 10.4137/bci.s30753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Carbamylated erythropoietin (cEpo), which is neuroprotective but lacks hematopoietic activity, has been attracting rising concerns. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the process of neuroprotection of cEpo are not well known. Based on several recent reports, the neuroprotective effects of cEpo are illustrated, and signaling pathways involved in the different effects of erythropoietin and cEpo are discussed. These newly reported researches may shed new light on the development and application of cEpo, a prospective drug candidate for neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Zheng Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
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Further improving the cognitive effect profile of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): the case for studying carbamylated erythropoietin. Med Hypotheses 2015; 84:258-61. [PMID: 25649853 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2015.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) remains the most effective acute treatment for severe depression and several other psychiatric illnesses. However, its use has been limited by concerns about cognitive adverse effects. ECT may cause temporary cognitive impairment in some patients, typically anterograde amnesia for 1-2 weeks after a course of treatment, and circumscribed retrograde amnesia. These cognitive effects largely disappear within days to weeks after treatment. Efforts to find a pharmacological agent to reduce the cognitive effects of ECT have largely been unsuccessful, with the possible exception of thyroid hormone. We review the literature on pharmacological attempts to attenuate ECT's cognitive effects, and propose a novel neuroprotective and neurotrophic agent, carbamylated erythropoietin (CEPO), for this indication.
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Uncovering Neurodegenerative Protein Modifications via Proteomic Profiling. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2015; 121:87-116. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Abstract
Cerebral oedema (CO) after brain injury can occur from different ways. The vasogenic and cytotoxic oedema are usually described but osmotic and hydrostatic CO, respectively secondary to plasmatic hypotonia or increase in blood pressure, can also be encountered. Addition of these several mechanisms can worsen injuries. Consequences are major, leading quickly to death secondary to intracerebral hypertension and later to neuropsychic sequelae. So therapeutic care to control this phenomenon is essential and osmotherapy is actually the only way. A better understanding of physiopathological disorders, particularly energetic ways (lactate), aquaporine function, inflammation lead to new therapeutic hopes. The promising experimental results need now to be confirmed by clinical data.
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Qi C, Xu M, Gan J, Yang X, Wu N, Song L, Yuan W, Liu Z. Erythropoietin improves neurobehavior by reducing dopaminergic neuron loss in a 6‑hydroxydopamine‑induced rat model. Int J Mol Med 2014; 34:440-50. [PMID: 24939444 PMCID: PMC4094589 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2014.1810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the systemic administration of high dose erythropoietin (EPO) in a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)- induced rat model. Rats were divided into 7 groups. Groups 1–4 were administered daily EPO doses of 0; 2,500; 5,000 and 10,000 U/kg via intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) for 5 days. The EPO concentration in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blot analysis. The dose of 10,000 U/kg was then selected for subsequent experiments. In group 5, rats received saline via medial forebrain bundle (MFB). In group 6, rats received 6-OHDA via MFB. In group 7, an EPO concentration of 10,000 U/kg was constantly administered i.p. for 5 days to rats prior to 6-OHDA injection via MFB. Behavioral analysis was performed for groups 5–7 by rat rotation tests. The number of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-immunopositive cells in the substantia nigra (SN) was measured by immunocytochemistry. The activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and caspase-3 signaling in rats were analyzed using western blotting. The results showed that there was a significant increase in EPO levels in the CSF in 10,000 U/kg group compared with the 2,500 and 5,000 U/kg groups (P<0.01). Significantly fewer rotational counts were obtained in rats that were pretreated with EPO compared with saline-pretreated 6-OHDA-lesioned rats (P<0.001). The dopaminergic neurons in the 6-OHDA-lesioned SN were also increased in the EPO-pretreated rats when compared with control rats (P<0.01). Western blot analysis revealed that EPO inhibited the 6-OHDA-induced activation of JNK, ERK, p38 MAPK and caspase-3 signaling in the rat model. In conclusion, systemic administration of a high dose of EPO exerted neuroprotective effects in reversing behavioral deficits associated with Parkinson’s disease and prevented loss of the dopaminergic neurons through the MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Qi
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Mingxin Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P.R. China
| | - Jing Gan
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Xinxin Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Na Wu
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Lu Song
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Weien Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, P.R. China
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Oh DH, Lee IY, Choi M, Kim SH, Son H. Comparison of Neurite Outgrowth Induced by Erythropoietin (EPO) and Carbamylated Erythropoietin (CEPO) in Hippocampal Neural Progenitor Cells. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2012; 16:281-5. [PMID: 22915994 PMCID: PMC3419764 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2012.16.4.281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Revised: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
A previous animal study has shown the effects of erythropoietin (EPO) and its non-erythropoietic carbamylated derivative (CEPO) on neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus. In the present study, we sought to investigate the effect of EPO on adult hippocampal neurogenesis, and to compare the ability of EPO and CEPO promoting dendrite elongation in cultured hippocampal neural progenitor cells. Two-month-old male BALB/c mice were given daily injections of EPO (5 U/g) for seven days and were sacrificed 12 hours after the final injection. Proliferation assays demonstrated that EPO treatment increased the density of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)-labeled cells in the subgranular zone (SGZ) compared to that in vehicle-treated controls. Functional differentiation studies using dissociated hippocampal cultures revealed that EPO treatment also increased the number of double-labeled BrdU/microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) neurons compared to those in vehicle-treated controls. Both EPO and CEPO treatment significantly increased the length of neurites and spine density in MAP2(+) cells. In summary, these results provide evidences that EPO and CEPO promote adult hippocampal neurogenesis and neuronal differentiation. These suggest that EPO and CEPO could be a good candidate for treating neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety associated with neuronal atrophy and reduced hippocampal neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hoon Oh
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Institute of Mental Health, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, Korea
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13
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Arbach O, Funck R, Seibt F, Salama A. Erythropoietin May Improve Anemia in Patients with Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Associated with Reticulocytopenia. Transfus Med Hemother 2012; 39:221-223. [PMID: 22851939 DOI: 10.1159/000339260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Management of patients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and reticulocytopenia remains challenging. CASE REPORTS: Two patients with decompensated AIHA who were receiving immunosuppressive drugs were treated with erythropoietin (EPO). Administration of EPO increased reticulocyte counts and hemoglobin concentrations in both cases. One patient completely recovered following a short course of treatment. Hemolysis could be compensated in the second patient using only mild doses of immunosuppressive drugs in combination with EPO. CONCLUSION: The administration of EPO should be considered in patients with therapy-refractory AIHA, particularly in the presence of reticulocytopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Arbach
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Universitätsmedizin Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
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A Clinically Relevant Rabbit Embolic Stroke Model for Acute Ischemic Stroke Therapy Development: Mechanisms and Targets. Transl Stroke Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-9530-8_27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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15
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Reduced brain edema and functional deficits after treatment of diffuse traumatic brain injury by carbamylated erythropoietin derivative*. Crit Care Med 2011; 39:2099-105. [DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0b013e31821cb7b2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Lapchak PA. Erythropoietin molecules to treat acute ischemic stroke: a translational dilemma! Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2011; 19:1179-86. [PMID: 20828227 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2010.517954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD Since the realization that erythropoietin (EPO) molecules have 'neuroprotective' properties, they have been investigated as treatments for acute ischemic stroke (AIS), but not systematically. The results of the 2009 clinical trial showed that EPO was ineffective as a stroke treatment, and moreover, increased mortality when combined with tissue plasminogen activator. Currently, CEPO, an EPO analog, is entering into a safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetic clinical trial for the treatment of AIS. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW This review covers translational and clinical studies carried out over the period 1998 - 2010. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN The primary aim of this article is to review the information available regarding the pharmacological and biological characteristics of EPO molecules. Second, based upon the translational research with EPO molecules in preclinical stroke models, a recommendation is made regarding the continued development of EPO molecules as an option to treat AIS. TAKE HOME MESSAGE EPO, CEPO and helix B peptide EPO analogs have significant neuroprotective activity is preclinical stroke models. However, given the detrimental effect of EPO in a recent clinical trial, preclinical safety studies of EPO molecules in embolic stroke models that parallel acute ischemic stroke in humans are warrented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Lapchak
- Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
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Wu MP, Gussoni E. Carbamylated erythropoietin does not alleviate signs of dystrophy in mdx mice. Muscle Nerve 2011; 43:88-93. [PMID: 21171099 DOI: 10.1002/mus.21785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietin promotes myoblast proliferation and inhibits fibrosis and thus it could impede the pathogenesis of muscle degenerative diseases. However, its stimulation of erythropoiesis limits its use as a therapeutic agent. An erythropoietin analog, carbamylated erythropoietin (C-EPO), retains these protective actions, yet it does not interact with the erythropoietin receptor. To determine whether treatment with C-EPO alleviates the signs of muscular dystrophy in an animal model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, we treated mdx mice with intraperitoneal injections of 50 μg/kg and 100 μg/kg C-EPO for 4 and 12 weeks, and we monitored weight, serum creatine kinase levels, and changes in muscle histology. Moderate histological improvement was observed at 4 weeks, which did not translate into a significantly decreased level of serum creatine kinase. At the doses tested, C-EPO is not an effective therapeutic for the treatment of a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa P Wu
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Xiong Y, Mahmood A, Zhang Y, Meng Y, Zhang ZG, Qu C, Sager TN, Chopp M. Effects of posttraumatic carbamylated erythropoietin therapy on reducing lesion volume and hippocampal cell loss, enhancing angiogenesis and neurogenesis, and improving functional outcome in rats following traumatic brain injury. J Neurosurg 2010; 114:549-59. [PMID: 21073254 DOI: 10.3171/2010.10.jns10925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECT Carbamylated erythropoietin (CEPO) is a modified erythropoietin molecule that does not affect hematocrit. In this study, the authors compared the efficacy of a single dose with a triple dose of CEPO treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rats. METHODS Traumatic brain injury was induced by controlled cortical impact over the left parietal cortex. Carbamylated erythropoietin (50 μg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally in rats with TBI at 6 hours (CEPO × 1) or at 6, 24, and 48 hours (CEPO × 3) postinjury. Neurological function was assessed using a modified neurological severity score and foot fault and Morris water maze tests. Animals were killed 35 days after injury, and brain sections were stained for immunohistochemical analysis to assess lesion volume, cell loss, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and neurogenesis after CEPO treatment. RESULTS Compared with the vehicle treatment, single treatment of CEPO (6 hours) significantly reduced lesion volume and hippocampal cell loss, enhanced angiogenesis and neurogenesis in the injured cortex and hippocampus, and significantly improved sensorimotor functional recovery and spatial learning in rats after TBI. Importantly, triple dosing of CEPO (6, 24, and 48 hours) further reduced lesion volume and improved functional recovery and neurogenesis compared with the CEPO × 1 group. CONCLUSIONS The authors' results indicate that CEPO has considerable therapeutic potential in TBI and related pathologies and furthermore that repeated dosing in the subacute phase might have important pharmacological relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Xiong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan 48202, USA.
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Velly L, Pellegrini L, Guillet B, Bruder N, Pisano P. Erythropoietin 2nd cerebral protection after acute injuries: a double-edged sword? Pharmacol Ther 2010; 128:445-59. [PMID: 20732352 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2010.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Accepted: 08/02/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 15 years, a large body of evidence has revealed that the cytokine erythropoietin exhibits non-erythropoietic functions, especially tissue-protective effects. The discovery of EPO and its receptors in the central nervous system and the evidence that EPO is made locally in response to injury as a protective factor in the brain have raised the possibility that recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) could be administered as a cytoprotective agent after acute brain injuries. This review highlights the potential applications of rhEPO as a neuroprotectant in experimental and clinical settings such as ischemia, traumatic brain injury, and subarachnoid and intracerebral hemorrhage. In preclinical studies, EPO prevented apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress induced by injury and exhibited strong neuroprotective and neurorestorative properties. EPO stimulates vascular repair by facilitating endothelial progenitor cell migration into the brain and neovascularisation, and it promotes neurogenesis. In humans, small clinical trials have shown promising results but large prospective randomized studies failed to demonstrate a benefit of EPO for brain protection and showed unwanted side effects, especially thrombotic complications. Recently, regions have been identified within the EPO molecule that mediate tissue protection, allowing the development of non-erythropoietic EPO variants for neuroprotection conceptually devoid of side effects. The efficacy and the safety profile of these new compounds are still to be demonstrated to obtain, in patients, the benefits observed in experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Velly
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, INSERM UMR 608, Université de la Méditerranée, Faculté de Pharmacie, Marseille, France
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Turner JD, Mammis A, Prestigiacomo CJ. Erythropoietin for the Treatment of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Review. World Neurosurg 2010; 73:500-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2010.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2009] [Accepted: 02/10/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Literature review. OBJECTIVES To review the main published current neuroprotection research trends and results in spinal cord injury (SCI). SETTING This paper is the result of a collaboration between a group of European scientists. METHODS Recent studies, especially in genetic, immune, histochemical and bio (nano)-technological fields, have provided new insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring within the central nervous system (NS), including SCIs. As a consequence, a new spectrum of therapies aiming to antagonize the 'secondary injury' pathways (that is, to provide neuroprotection) and also to repair such classically irreparable structures is emerging. We reviewed the most significant published works related to such novel, but not yet entirely validated, clinical practice therapies. RESULTS There have been identified many molecules, primarily expressed by heterogenous glial and neural subpopulations of cells, which are directly or indirectly critical for tissue damaging/sparing/re-growth inhibiting, angiogenesis and neural plasticity, and also various substances/energy vectors with regenerative properties, such as MAG (myelin-associated glycoprotein), Omgp (oligodendrocyte myelin glycoprotein), KDI (synthetic: Lysine-Asparagine-Isoleucine 'gamma-1 of Laminin Kainat Domain'), Nogo (Neurite outgrowth inhibitor), NgR (Nogo protein Receptor), the Rho signaling pathway (superfamily of 'Rho-dopsin gene-including neurotransmitter-receptors'), EphA4 (Ephrine), GFAP (Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein), different subtypes of serotonergic and glutamatergic receptors, antigens, antibodies, immune modulators, adhesion molecules, scavengers, neurotrophic factors, enzymes, hormones, collagen scar inhibitors, remyelinating agents and neurogenetic/plasticity inducers, all aiming to preserve/re-establish the morphology and functional connections across the lesion site. Accordingly, modern research and experimental SCI therapies focus on several intricate, rather overlapping, therapeutic objectives and means, such as neuroprotective, neurotrophic, neurorestorative, neuroreparative, neuroregenerative, neuro(re)constructive and neurogenetic interventions. CONCLUSION The first three of these therapeutical directions are generically assimilated as neuroprotective, and are synthetically presented and commented in this paper in an attempt to conceptually systematize them; thus, the aim of this article is, by emphasizing the state-of-the art in the domain, to optimize theoretical support in selecting the most effective pharmacological and physical interventions for preventing, as much as possible, paralysis, and for maximizing recovery chances after SCI.
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Lapchak PA, Zivin JA. The lipophilic multifunctional antioxidant edaravone (radicut) improves behavior following embolic strokes in rabbits: A combination therapy study with tissue plasminogen activator. Exp Neurol 2009; 215:95-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2008.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2008] [Revised: 09/12/2008] [Accepted: 09/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide in individuals under the age of 45 years, and, despite extensive efforts to develop neuroprotective therapies, there has been no successful outcome in any trial of neuroprotection to date. In addition to recognizing that many TBI clinical trials have not been optimally designed to detect potential efficacy, the failures can be attributed largely to the fact that most of the therapies investigated have been targeted toward an individual injury factor. The contemporary view of TBI is that of a very heterogenous type of injury, one that varies widely in etiology, clinical presentation, severity, and pathophysiology. The mechanisms involved in neuronal cell death after TBI involve an interaction of acute and delayed anatomic, molecular, biochemical, and physiological events that are both complex and multifaceted. Accordingly, neuropharmacotherapies need to be targeted at the multiple injury factors that contribute to the secondary injury cascade, and, in so doing, maximize the likelihood of a successful outcome. This review focuses on a number of such multifunctional compounds that have shown considerable success in experimental studies and that show maximum promise for success in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Vink
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia.
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Kadota T, Shingo T, Yasuhara T, Tajiri N, Kondo A, Morimoto T, Yuan WJ, Wang F, Baba T, Tokunaga K, Miyoshi Y, Date I. Continuous intraventricular infusion of erythropoietin exerts neuroprotective/rescue effects upon Parkinson's disease model of rats with enhanced neurogenesis. Brain Res 2008; 1254:120-7. [PMID: 19101524 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.11.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2008] [Revised: 11/23/2008] [Accepted: 11/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuronal systems. Several therapeutic tools for PD include medication using L-DOPA and surgeries such as deep brain stimulation are established. However, the therapies are considered as symptomatic therapy, but not basic remedy for PD and a new regenerative therapy would be desired to explore. In this study, the neuroprotective/rescue effects of erythropoietin (EPO), a well known hematopoietic hormone, on dopaminergic neurons were explored with neurogeneic potencies of EPO. EPO (100 IU/day) was continuously administered with micro-osmotic pump for a week to PD model of rats induced by intrastriatal 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) injection with subsequent behavioral and immunohistochemical investigations. The number of amphetamine-induced rotations of EPO-treated rats significantly decreased, compared to the control rats. The preservation of dopaminergic neurons of EPO-treated rats were confirmed by tyrosine hydroxylase staining and Fluoro-Gold staining. The number of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)/polysialic acid-neural cell adhesion molecule (PSA-NCAM) double positive cells in the subventricular zone of EPO treated rats significantly increased with migratory potencies to the damaged striatum,compared to the control rats. Furthermore, TUNEL staining and phosphorylated Akt staining revealed that the neuroprotective/rescue effects of EPO might be mediated by anti-apoptotic effects through the increase of phosphorylated Akt. These results suggest that continuous low dose infusion of EPO exerts neuroprotective/rescue effects with neurogeneic potentials. EPO might be a strong tool for PD therapy, although the further experiments should be added.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohito Kadota
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences 2-5-1, Shikata-cho, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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Brines M, Cerami A. Erythropoietin-mediated tissue protection: reducing collateral damage from the primary injury response. J Intern Med 2008; 264:405-32. [PMID: 19017170 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2008.02024.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 244] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In its classic hormonal role, erythropoietin (EPO) is produced by the kidney and regulates the number of erythrocytes within the circulation to provide adequate tissue oxygenation. EPO also mediates other effects directed towards optimizing oxygen delivery to tissues, e.g. modulating regional blood flow and reducing blood loss by promoting thrombosis within damaged vessels. Over the past 15 years, many unexpected nonhaematopoietic functions of EPO have been identified. In these more recently appreciated nonhormonal roles, locally-produced EPO signals through a different receptor isoform and is a major molecular component of the injury response, in which it counteracts the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Acutely, EPO prevents programmed cell death and reduces the development of secondary, pro-inflammatory cytokine-induced injury. Within a longer time frame, EPO provides trophic support to enable regeneration and healing. As the region immediately surrounding damage is typically relatively deficient in endogenous EPO, administration of recombinant EPO can provide increased tissue protection. However, effective use of EPO as therapy for tissue injury requires higher doses than for haematopoiesis, potentially triggering serious adverse effects. The identification of a tissue-protective receptor isoform has facilitated the engineering of nonhaematopoietic, tissue-protective EPO derivatives, e.g. carbamyl EPO, that avoid these complications. Recently, regions within the EPO molecule mediating tissue protection have been identified and this has enabled the development of potent tissue-protective peptides, including some mimicking EPO's tertiary structure but unrelated in primary sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Brines
- Warren Pharmaceuticals, Ossining, NY 10562, USA.
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Lapchak PA. The many faces of erythropoietin: from erythropoiesis to a rational neuroprotective strategy – correspondence. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2008; 17:1615-6. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.17.10.1615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Grasso G, Sfacteria A. The many faces of erythropoietin: from erythropoiesis to a rational neuroprotective strategy. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2008; 17:1407-9. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.17.10.1407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Therapeutic window for nonerythropoietic carbamylated-erythropoietin to improve motor function following multiple infarct ischemic strokes in New Zealand white rabbits. Brain Res 2008; 1238:208-14. [PMID: 18761001 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2008] [Revised: 08/09/2008] [Accepted: 08/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Carbamylated erythropoietin (CEPO) is a novel neuroprotective agent that does not bind to the classical erythropoietin receptor or affect hematocrit. Since CEPO has not been systematically studied in a fully blinded and randomized manner in an embolic stroke model, we determined if CEPO would be useful to attenuate clinical deficits associated with multiple infarct ischemia using the rabbit small clot embolic stroke model (RSCEM). Rabbits were embolized and treated with vehicle or CEPO within 6 h of embolization and behavioral analysis was conducted 48 h after embolization. Using quantal analysis, we determined the quantity of blood clot (mg) in brain that produce neurologic dysfunction in 50% of the rabbits (P(50)), with intervention considered beneficial if it increased the P(50) compared to controls. CEPO administered between 5 min and 3 h after embolization significantly (p<0.05) improved behavioral function and increased the P(50) value by 55-216%. However, CEPO administration did not improve behavior when administered 6 h following embolization. In conclusion, in the RSCEM, CEPO had a therapeutic window of at least 3 h, where it effectively improved clinical rating scores and motor function. Our results suggest that CEPO may be useful to treat acute ischemic stroke and supports the study of CEPO in stroke patients.
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