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Ghosh K, Huang Y, Chen SR, Pan HL. Nerve injury augments Cacna2d1 transcription via CK2-mediated phosphorylation of the histone deacetylase HDAC2 in dorsal root ganglia. J Biol Chem 2024:107848. [PMID: 39357831 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Development of chronic neuropathic pain involves complex synaptic and epigenetic mechanisms. Nerve injury causes sustained upregulation of α2δ-1 (encoded by the Cacna2d1 gene) in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), contributing to pain hypersensitivity by directly interacting with and augmenting presynaptic NMDA receptor activity in the spinal dorsal horn. Under normal conditions, histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) is highly enriched at the Cacna2d1 gene promoter in the DRG, which constitutively suppresses Cacna2d1 transcription. However, nerve injury leads to HDAC2 dissociation from the Cacna2d1 promoter, promoting the enrichment of active histone marks and Cacna2d1 transcription in primary sensory neurons. In this study, we determined the mechanism by which nerve injury diminishes HDAC2 occupancy at the Cacna2d1 promoter in the DRG. Spinal nerve injury in rats increased serine-394 phosphorylation of HDAC2 in the DRG. Coimmunoprecipitation showed that nerve injury enhanced the physical interaction between HDAC2 and casein kinase II (CK2) in the DRG. Furthermore, repeated intrathecal treatment with CX-4945, a potent and specific CK2 inhibitor, markedly reversed nerve injury-induced pain hypersensitivity, HDAC2 phosphorylation, and α2δ-1 expression levels in the DRG. In addition, treatment with CX-4945 largely restored HDAC2 enrichment at the Cacna2d1 promoter and reduced the elevated levels of acetylated H3 and H4 histones, particularly H3K9ac and H4K5ac, at the Cacna2d1 promoter in the injured DRG. These findings suggest that nerve injury increases CK2 activity and CK2-HDAC2 interactions, which enhance HDAC2 phosphorylation in the DRG. This, in turn, diminishes HDAC2 enrichment at the Cacna2d1 promoter, thereby promoting Cacna2d1 transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Ghosh
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Yuying Huang
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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2
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Gao N, Li M, Wang W, Liu Z, Guo Y. The dual role of TRPV1 in peripheral neuropathic pain: pain switches caused by its sensitization or desensitization. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1400118. [PMID: 39315294 PMCID: PMC11417043 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1400118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel plays a dual role in peripheral neuropathic pain (NeuP) by acting as a "pain switch" through its sensitization and desensitization. Hyperalgesia, commonly resulting from tissue injury or inflammation, involves the sensitization of TRPV1 channels, which modulates sensory transmission from primary afferent nociceptors to spinal dorsal horn neurons. In chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), TRPV1 is implicated in neuropathic pain mechanisms due to its interaction with ion channels, neurotransmitter signaling, and oxidative stress. Sensitization of TRPV1 in dorsal root ganglion neurons contributes to CIPN development, and inhibition of TRPV1 channels can reduce chemotherapy-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. In diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), TRPV1 is involved in pain modulation through pathways including reactive oxygen species and cytokine production. TRPV1's interaction with TRPA1 channels further influences chronic pain onset and progression. Therapeutically, capsaicin, a TRPV1 agonist, can induce analgesia through receptor desensitization, while TRPV1 antagonists and siRNA targeting TRPV1 show promise in preclinical studies. Cannabinoid modulation of TRPV1 provides another potential pathway for alleviating neuropathic pain. This review summarizes recent preclinical research on TRPV1 in association with peripheral NeuP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Gao
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weiming Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yufeng Guo
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Huang 黄玉莹 Y, Shao 邵建英 JY, Chen 陈红 H, Zhou 周京京 JJ, Chen 陈少瑞 SR, Pan 潘惠麟 HL. Calcineurin and CK2 Reciprocally Regulate Synaptic AMPA Receptor Phenotypes via α2δ-1 in Spinal Excitatory Neurons. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0392242024. [PMID: 38886057 PMCID: PMC11255431 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0392-24.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Calcineurin inhibitors, such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus (FK506), are commonly used immunosuppressants for preserving transplanted organs and tissues. However, these drugs can cause severe and persistent pain. GluA2-lacking, calcium-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs) are implicated in various neurological disorders, including neuropathic pain. It is unclear whether and how constitutive calcineurin, a Ca2+/calmodulin protein phosphatase, controls synaptic CP-AMPARs. In this study, we found that blocking CP-AMPARs with IEM-1460 markedly reduced the amplitude of AMPAR-EPSCs in excitatory neurons expressing vesicular glutamate transporter-2 (VGluT2), but not in inhibitory neurons expressing vesicular GABA transporter, in the spinal cord of FK506-treated male and female mice. FK506 treatment also caused an inward rectification in the current-voltage relationship of AMPAR-EPSCs specifically in VGluT2 neurons. Intrathecal injection of IEM-1460 rapidly alleviated pain hypersensitivity in FK506-treated mice. Furthermore, FK506 treatment substantially increased physical interaction of α2δ-1 with GluA1 and GluA2 in the spinal cord and reduced GluA1/GluA2 heteromers in endoplasmic reticulum-enriched fractions of spinal cords. Correspondingly, inhibiting α2δ-1 with pregabalin, Cacna2d1 genetic knock-out, or disrupting α2δ-1-AMPAR interactions with an α2δ-1 C terminus peptide reversed inward rectification of AMPAR-EPSCs in spinal VGluT2 neurons caused by FK506 treatment. In addition, CK2 inhibition reversed FK506 treatment-induced pain hypersensitivity, α2δ-1 interactions with GluA1 and GluA2, and inward rectification of AMPAR-EPSCs in spinal VGluT2 neurons. Thus, the increased prevalence of synaptic CP-AMPARs in spinal excitatory neurons plays a major role in calcineurin inhibitor-induced pain hypersensitivity. Calcineurin and CK2 antagonistically regulate postsynaptic CP-AMPARs through α2δ-1-mediated GluA1/GluA2 heteromeric assembly in the spinal dorsal horn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Huang 黄玉莹
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jian-Ying Shao 邵建英
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hong Chen 陈红
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jing-Jing Zhou 周京京
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Shao-Rui Chen 陈少瑞
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hui-Lin Pan 潘惠麟
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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Carrillo E, Montaño Romero A, Gonzalez CU, Turcu AL, Chen SR, Chen H, Pan HL, Vázquez S, Twomey EC, Jayaraman V. Memantine Inhibits Calcium-Permeable AMPA Receptors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.02.601784. [PMID: 39005433 PMCID: PMC11245036 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.02.601784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Memantine is an US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drug that selectively inhibits NMDA-subtype ionotropic glutamate receptors (NMDARs) for treatment of dementia and Alzheimer's. NMDARs enable calcium influx into neurons and are critical for normal brain function. However, increasing evidence shows that calcium influx in neurological diseases is augmented by calcium-permeable AMPA-subtype ionotropic glutamate receptors (AMPARs). Here, we demonstrate that these calcium-permeable AMPARs (CP-AMPARs) are inhibited by memantine. Electrophysiology unveils that memantine inhibition of CP-AMPARs is dependent on their calcium permeability and the presence of their neuronal auxiliary subunit transmembrane AMPAR regulatory proteins (TARPs). Through cryo-electron microscopy we elucidate that memantine blocks CP-AMPAR ion channels in a unique mechanism of action from NMDARs. Furthermore, we demonstrate that memantine reverses a gain of function AMPAR mutation found in a patient with a neurodevelopmental disorder and inhibits CP-AMPARs in nerve injury. Our findings alter the paradigm for the memantine mechanism of action and provide a blueprint for therapeutic approaches targeting CP-AMPARs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Carrillo
- Center for Membrane Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Alejandra Montaño Romero
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Cuauhtemoc U. Gonzalez
- Center for Membrane Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Andreea L. Turcu
- Laboratori de Química Farmacèutica (Unitat Associada al CSIC), Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació i Institut de Biomedicina (IBUB), Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Hong Chen
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Santiago Vázquez
- Laboratori de Química Farmacèutica (Unitat Associada al CSIC), Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació i Institut de Biomedicina (IBUB), Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Edward C. Twomey
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- The Beckman Center for Cryo-EM at Johns Hopkins, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Diana Helis Henry Medical Research Foundation, New Orleans, LA, 70170, USA
| | - Vasanthi Jayaraman
- Center for Membrane Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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5
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Zhang W, Jiao B, Yu S, Zhang C, Zhang K, Liu B, Zhang X. Histone deacetylase as emerging pharmacological therapeutic target for neuropathic pain: From epigenetic to selective drugs. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14745. [PMID: 38715326 PMCID: PMC11077000 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain remains a formidable challenge for modern medicine. The first-line pharmacological therapies exhibit limited efficacy and unfavorable side effect profiles, highlighting an unmet need for effective therapeutic medications. The past decades have witnessed an explosion in efforts to translate epigenetic concepts into pain therapy and shed light on epigenetics as a promising avenue for pain research. Recently, the aberrant activity of histone deacetylase (HDAC) has emerged as a key mechanism contributing to the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain. AIMS In this review, we highlight the distinctive role of specific HDAC subtypes in a cell-specific manner in pain nociception, and outline the recent experimental evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of HDACi in neuropathic pain. METHODS We have summarized studies of HDAC in neuropathic pain in Pubmed. RESULTS HDACs, widely distributed in the neuronal and non-neuronal cells of the dorsal root ganglion and spinal cord, regulate gene expression by deacetylation of histone or non-histone proteins and involving in increased neuronal excitability and neuroinflammation, thus promoting peripheral and central sensitization. Importantly, pharmacological manipulation of aberrant acetylation using HDAC-targeted inhibitors (HDACi) has shown promising pain-relieving properties in various preclinical models of neuropathic pain. Yet, many of which exhibit low-specificity that may induce off-target toxicities, underscoring the necessity for the development of isoform-selective HDACi in pain management. CONCLUSIONS Abnormally elevated HDACs promote neuronal excitability and neuroinflammation by epigenetically modulating pivotal gene expression in neuronal and immune cells, contributing to peripheral and central sensitization in the progression of neuropathic pain, and HDACi showed significant efficacy and great potential for alleviating neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencui Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric AnesthesiaTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Bo Jiao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric AnesthesiaTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Shangchen Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric AnesthesiaTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Caixia Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric AnesthesiaTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Kaiwen Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric AnesthesiaTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Baowen Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric AnesthesiaTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xianwei Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, and Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric AnesthesiaTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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6
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Wang M, Wei X, Jia Y, Wang C, Wang X, Zhang X, Li D, Wang Y, Gao Y. Quercetin alleviates chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression-like behavior by inhibiting NMDAR1 with α2δ-1 in rats. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14724. [PMID: 38615365 PMCID: PMC11016343 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a serious mental disorder and the most prevalent cause of disability and suicide worldwide. Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) can lead to a significant acceleration of depression development. Quercetin (Que) is a flavonoid compound with a wide range of pharmacological effects. Recent studies have shown that quercetin can improve CUMS-induced depression-like behavior, but the mechanism of its improvement is still unclear. α2δ-1 is a regulatory subunit of voltage-gated calcium channel, which can interact with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) to form a complex. OBJECTIVE In this study, we found that Que could inhibit the increase of α2δ-1 and NMDAR expression in rat hypothalamus induced by CUMS. In pain, chronic hypertension and other studies have shown that α2δ-1 interacts with the NMDAR to form a complex, which subsequently affects the expression level of NMDAR. Consequently, the present study aimed to investigate the antidepressant effect of Que in vivo and in vitro and to explore its mechanism of action in terms of the interaction between α2δ-1 and NMDAR. METHODS Rats were randomly exposed to two stressors every day for 4 weeks to establish a CUMS rat model, then sucrose preference test (SPT), forced swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), and open field test (OFT) were performed to detect the behavior of CUMS rats, so as to evaluate whether the CUMS rat model was successfully established and the improvement effect of Que on CUMS-induced depression-like behavior in rats. Experimental techniques such as serum enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunofluorescence, Western blot, and co-immunoprecipitation, as well as in vitro experiments, were used to investigate the mechanisms by which Que exerts its antidepressant effects. RESULTS Behavioral and ELISA test results showed that Que could produce a reduction in the excitability of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in CUMS rats and lead to significant improvements in their depressive behavior. Western blot, immunofluorescence, and co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that Que produced a decrease in NMDAR1 and α2δ-1 expression levels and interfered with α2δ-1 and NMDAR1 binding. In addition, the neural regulation mechanism of Que on antidepressant effect in PC12 cells knocked out α2δ-1 gene was further verified. Cellular experiments demonstrated that Que led to a reversal of up-regulation of NMDAR1 and α2δ-1 expression levels in corticosterone-injured PC12 cells, while Que had no effects on NMDAR1 expression in PC12 cells with the α2δ-1 gene knockout. CONCLUSIONS Que has a good antidepressant effect and can significantly improve the depression-like behavior caused by CUMS. It exerts antidepressant effects by inhibiting the expression level of α2δ-1, interfering with the interaction between α2δ-1 and NMDAR, and then reducing the excitability of the HPA axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyan Wang
- College of Integrative Chinese and Western MedicineHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
| | - Xin Wei
- College of Integrative Chinese and Western MedicineHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
| | - Yugai Jia
- College of Basic Medical SciencesHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
| | - Chaonan Wang
- College of Basic Medical SciencesHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
| | - Xinliu Wang
- College of Integrative Chinese and Western MedicineHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
| | - Xin Zhang
- College of Integrative Chinese and Western MedicineHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
| | - Depei Li
- Department of MedicineUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMissouriUSA
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- College of Basic Medical SciencesHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
| | - Yonggang Gao
- College of Basic Medical SciencesHebei University of Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
- Hebei International Cooperation Center for Ion channel Function and Innovative Traditional Chinese MedicineShijiazhuangChina
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio‐Cerebrovascular DiseaseShijiazhuangChina
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7
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Xu J, Zhang H, Chen D, Xu K, Li Z, Wu H, Geng X, Wei X, Wu J, Cui W, Wei S. Looking for a Beam of Light to Heal Chronic Pain. J Pain Res 2024; 17:1091-1105. [PMID: 38510563 PMCID: PMC10953534 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s455549] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain (CP) is a leading cause of disability and a potential factor that affects biological processes, family relationships, and self-esteem of patients. However, the need for treatment of CP is presently unmet. Current methods of pain management involve the use of drugs, but there are different degrees of concerning side effects. At present, the potential mechanisms underlying CP are not completely clear. As research progresses and novel therapeutic approaches are developed, the shortcomings of current pain treatment methods may be overcome. In this review, we discuss the retinal photoreceptors and brain regions associated with photoanalgesia, as well as the targets involved in photoanalgesia, shedding light on its potential underlying mechanisms. Our aim is to provide a foundation to understand the mechanisms underlying CP and develop light as a novel analgesic treatment has its biological regulation principle for CP. This approach may provide an opportunity to drive the field towards future translational, clinical studies and support pain drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Chen
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kaiyong Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zifa Li
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongyun Wu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiwen Geng
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xia Wei
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Generic Drugs, Shandong Institute for Food and Drug Control, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jibiao Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenqiang Cui
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sheng Wei
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
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8
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Huang 黄玉莹 Y, Chen 陈红 H, Shao 邵建英 JY, Zhou 周京京 JJ, Chen 陈少瑞 SR, Pan 潘惠麟 HL. Constitutive KCC2 Cell- and Synapse-Specifically Regulates NMDA Receptor Activity in the Spinal Cord. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1943232023. [PMID: 38124193 PMCID: PMC10860486 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1943-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
K+-Cl- cotransporter-2 (KCC2) critically controls neuronal chloride homeostasis and maintains normal synaptic inhibition by GABA and glycine. Nerve injury diminishes synaptic inhibition in the spinal cord via KCC2 impairment. However, how KCC2 regulates nociceptive input to spinal excitatory and inhibitory neurons remains elusive. Here, we show that basal GABA reversal potentials were significantly more depolarized in vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT)-expressing inhibitory neurons than those in vesicular glutamate transporter-2 (VGluT2)-expressing excitatory neurons in spinal cords of male and female mice. Strikingly, inhibiting KCC2 with VU0463271 increased currents elicited by puff NMDA and the NMDAR-mediated frequency of mEPSCs in VGluT2, but not in VGAT, dorsal horn neurons. Notably, VU0463271 had no effect on EPSCs monosynaptically evoked from the dorsal root in VGluT2 neurons. Furthermore, VU0463271 augmented α2δ-1-NMDAR interactions and their protein levels in spinal cord synaptosomes. In Cacna2d1 KO mice, VU0463271 had no effect on puff NMDA currents or the mEPSC frequency in dorsal horn neurons. Disrupting α2δ-1-NMDAR interactions with α2δ-1 C-terminus mimicking peptide diminished VU0463271-induced potentiation in the mEPSC frequency and puff NMDA currents in VGluT2 neurons. Additionally, intrathecal injection of VU0463271 reduced mechanical and thermal thresholds in wild-type mice, but not in Cacna2d1 KO mice. VU0463271-induced pain hypersensitivity in mice was abrogated by co-treatment with the NMDAR antagonist, pregabalin (an α2δ-1 inhibitory ligand), or α2δ-1 C-terminus mimicking peptide. Our findings suggest that KCC2 controls presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDAR activity specifically in excitatory dorsal horn neurons. KCC2 impairment preferentially potentiates nociceptive transmission between spinal excitatory interneurons via α2δ-1-bound NMDARs.Significance statementImpaired function of potassium-chloride cotransporter-2 (KCC2), a key regulator of neuronal inhibition, in the spinal cord plays a major role in neuropathic pain. This study unveils that KCC2 controls spinal nociceptive synaptic strength via NMDA receptors in a cell type- and synapse type-specific manner. KCC2 inhibition preferentially augments presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDA receptor activity in spinal excitatory interneurons via α2δ-1 (previously known as a calcium channel subunit). Importantly, spinal KCC2 impairment triggers pain hypersensitivity through α2δ-1-coupled NMDA receptors. These findings pinpoint the cell and molecular substrates for the reciprocal relationship between spinal synaptic inhibition and excitation in chronic neuropathic pain. Targeting both KCC2 and α2δ-1–NMDA receptor complexes could be an effective strategy in managing neuropathic pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Huang 黄玉莹
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, Texas
| | - Hong Chen 陈红
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, Texas
| | - Jian-Ying Shao 邵建英
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, Texas
| | - Jing-Jing Zhou 周京京
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, Texas
| | - Shao-Rui Chen 陈少瑞
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, Texas
| | - Hui-Lin Pan 潘惠麟
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, Texas
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9
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Varadi G. Mechanism of Analgesia by Gabapentinoid Drugs: Involvement of Modulation of Synaptogenesis and Trafficking of Glutamate-Gated Ion Channels. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 388:121-133. [PMID: 37918854 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.001669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Gabapentinoids have clinically been used for treating epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and several other neurologic disorders for >30 years; however, the definitive molecular mechanism responsible for their therapeutic actions remained uncertain. The conventional pharmacological observation regarding their efficacy in chronic pain modulation is the weakening of glutamate release at presynaptic terminals in the spinal cord. While the α2/δ-1 subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) has been identified as the primary drug receptor for gabapentinoids, the lack of consistent effect of this drug class on VGCC function is indicative of a minor role in regulating this ion channel's activity. The current review targets the efficacy and mechanism of gabapentinoids in treating chronic pain. The discovery of interaction of α2/δ-1 with thrombospondins established this protein as a major synaptogenic neuronal receptor for thrombospondins. Other findings identified α2/δ-1 as a powerful regulator of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA) and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) by potentiating the synaptic expression, a putative pathophysiological mechanism of neuropathic pain. Further, the interdependent interactions between thrombospondin and α2/δ-1 contribute to chronic pain states, while gabapentinoid ligands efficaciously reverse such pain conditions. Gabapentin normalizes and even blocks NMDAR and AMPAR synaptic targeting and activity elicited by nerve injury. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Gabapentinoid drugs are used to treat various neurological conditions including chronic pain. In chronic pain states, gene expression of cacnα2/δ-1 and thrombospondins are upregulated and promote aberrant excitatory synaptogenesis. The complex trait of protein associations that involve interdependent interactions between α2/δ-1 and thrombospondins, further, association of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor with the C-tail of α2/δ-1, constitutes a macromolecular signaling complex that forms the crucial elements for the pharmacological mode of action of gabapentinoids.
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10
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Katano T, Konno K, Takao K, Abe M, Yoshikawa A, Miyakawa T, Sakimura K, Watanabe M, Ito S, Kobayashi T. Brain-enriched guanylate kinase-associated protein, a component of the post-synaptic density protein complexes, contributes to learning and memory. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22027. [PMID: 38086879 PMCID: PMC10716515 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49537-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-enriched guanylate kinase-associated protein (BEGAIN) is highly enriched in the post-synaptic density (PSD) fraction and was identified in our previous study as a protein associated with neuropathic pain in the spinal dorsal horn. PSD protein complexes containing N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors are known to be involved in neuropathic pain. Since these PSD proteins also participate in learning and memory, BEGAIN is also expected to play a crucial role in this behavior. To verify this, we first examined the distribution of BEGAIN in the brain. We found that BEGAIN was widely distributed in the brain and highly expressed in the dendritic regions of the hippocampus. Moreover, we found that BEGAIN was concentrated in the PSD fraction of the hippocampus. Furthermore, immunoelectron microscopy confirmed that BEGAIN was localized at the asymmetric synapses. Behavioral tests were performed using BEGAIN-knockout (KO) mice to determine the contribution of BEGAIN toward learning and memory. Spatial reference memory and reversal learning in the Barns circular maze test along with contextual fear and cued fear memory in the contextual and cued fear conditioning test were significantly impaired in BEGAIN-KO mice compared to with those in wild-type mice. Thus, this study reveals that BEGAIN is a component of the post-synaptic compartment of excitatory synapses involved in learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayo Katano
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan.
| | - Kohtarou Konno
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Keizo Takao
- Section of Behavior Patterns, National Institute of Physiological Sciences, NINS, Okazaki, Japan
- Department of Behavioral Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Life Science Research Center, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Manabu Abe
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Akari Yoshikawa
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Miyakawa
- Division of Systems Medical Science, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakimura
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Seiji Ito
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University, Takatsuki, Japan
| | - Takuya Kobayashi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
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11
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Xie RG, Xu GY, Wu SX, Luo C. Presynaptic glutamate receptors in nociception. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 251:108539. [PMID: 37783347 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a frequent, distressing and poorly understood health problem. Plasticity of synaptic transmission in the nociceptive pathways after inflammation or injury is assumed to be an important cellular basis for chronic, pathological pain. Glutamate serves as the main excitatory neurotransmitter at key synapses in the somatosensory nociceptive pathways, in which it acts on both ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors. Although conventionally postsynaptic, compelling anatomical and physiological evidence demonstrates the presence of presynaptic glutamate receptors in the nociceptive pathways. Presynaptic glutamate receptors play crucial roles in nociceptive synaptic transmission and plasticity. They modulate presynaptic neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity, which in turn regulates pain sensitization. In this review, we summarize the latest understanding of the expression of presynaptic glutamate receptors in the nociceptive pathways, and how they contribute to nociceptive information processing and pain hypersensitivity associated with inflammation / injury. We uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms of presynaptic glutamate receptors in shaping synaptic transmission and plasticity to mediate pain chronicity, which may provide therapeutic approaches for treatment of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rou-Gang Xie
- Department of Neurobiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Guang-Yin Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Sheng-Xi Wu
- Department of Neurobiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Ceng Luo
- Department of Neurobiology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China.
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12
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Jiang C, Wang C, Qu W, Wang Y, Wang H, Wei X, Wang M, He Q, Wang Y, Yuan L, Gao Y. Cherry leaf decoction inhibits NMDAR expression and thereby ameliorates CUMS- induced depression-like behaviors through downregulation of α2δ-1. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21743. [PMID: 38034773 PMCID: PMC10681947 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21743] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is a complex and prevalent mental illness. Cherry leaf is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, which has confirmed to exert a certain antidepressant effect, but its potential neural regulation mechanism is not clear. This paper aims to investigate the improved action of cherry leaf decoction (CLD) on chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rats and its potential neural regulation mechanism by verifying the role and function of NMDAR regulatory target α2δ-1 in depression due to CUMS. Male SD rats were subjected to random stressors persisting for 5 weeks to establish the CUMS depression rat model. CLD could effectively alleviate depression-like behaviors of CUMS rats in behavioral tests including sucrose preference test, forced swimming test, tail suspension test and open field test. After the administration of the CLD, the expression of corticotropic-releasing hormone (CRH) in the hypothalamus was inhibited. Moreover, the levels of CRH, adrenal cortical hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) in serum also decreased significantly. CUMS upregulated the expressions of α2δ-1, N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor 1 (NR1), NR2A and NR2B, and enhanced the binding ability to of α2δ-1 and NR1, which were reversed by CLD. The results demonstrated that CLD could ameliorate depression-like behaviors due to CUMS, which was related to the fact that CLD down-regulated α2δ-1 level and interfered with α2δ-1 binding to NR1, thereby reducing NMDAR expression and ultimately inhibiting HPA axis activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Jiang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaonan Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Weizhong Qu
- Department of Physical Education, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Wei
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyan Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqian He
- Department of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yihan Wang
- Department of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Lirong Yuan
- Department of Humanities and Management, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonggang Gao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, 3 Xingyuan Road, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research On Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, People's Republic of China
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13
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Zhang H, Li A, Liu YF, Sun ZM, Jin BX, Lin JP, Yang Y, Yao YX. Spinal TAOK2 contributes to neuropathic pain via cGAS-STING activation in rats. iScience 2023; 26:107792. [PMID: 37720090 PMCID: PMC10502416 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107792] [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: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Thousand and one amino acid kinase 2 (TAOK2) is a member of the mammalian sterile 20 kinase family and is implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders; however, its role in neuropathic pain remains unknown. Here, we found that TAOK2 was enriched and activated after chronic constriction injury (CCI) in the rat spinal dorsal horn. Meanwhile, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling was also activated with hyperalgesia. Silencing TAOK2 reversed hyperalgesia and suppressed the activation of cGAS-STING signaling induced by CCI, while pharmacological activation of TAOK2 induced pain hypersensitivity and upregulation of cGAS-STING signaling in naive rats. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition or gene silencing of cGAS-STING signaling attenuated CCI-induced hyperalgesia. Taken together, these data demonstrate that the activation of spinal TAOK2 contributes to CCI-induced hyperalgesia via cGAS-STING signaling activation, providing new molecular targets for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
- Department of Anesthesia, People’s Hospital of Guizhou Province, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China
| | - Yu-Fan Liu
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Zhong-Ming Sun
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Bing-Xin Jin
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Jia-Piao Lin
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310020, China
- Centre for Neuroscience, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yong-Xing Yao
- Department of Anesthesia, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, China
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14
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Zhou JJ, Shao JY, Chen SR, Pan HL. Brain α2δ-1-Bound NMDA Receptors Drive Calcineurin Inhibitor-Induced Hypertension. Circ Res 2023; 133:611-627. [PMID: 37605933 PMCID: PMC10529656 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.322562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcineurin is highly enriched in immune T cells and the nervous system. Calcineurin inhibitors, including cyclosporine and tacrolimus (FK506), are the cornerstone of immunosuppressive regimens for preserving transplanted organs and tissues. However, these drugs often cause persistent hypertension owing to excess sympathetic outflow, which is maintained by N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-mediated excitatory input to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN). It is unclear how calcineurin inhibitors increase NMDAR activity in the PVN to augment sympathetic vasomotor activity. α2δ-1 (encoded by the Cacna2d1 gene), known colloquially as a calcium channel subunit, is a newly discovered NMDAR-interacting protein. In this study, we determined whether α2δ-1 plays a role in calcineurin inhibitor-induced synaptic NMDAR hyperactivity in the PVN and hypertension development. METHODS Immunoblotting and coimmunoprecipitation assays were used to quantify synaptic protein levels and the physical interaction between GluN1 (the obligatory NMDAR subunit) and α2δ-1. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings of retrogradely labeled, spinally projecting PVN were conducted in perfused brain slices to measure presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDAR activity. Radio-telemetry was implanted in rodents to continuously record arterial blood pressure in conscious states. RESULTS Prolonged treatment with FK506 in rats significantly increased protein levels of α2δ-1, GluN1, and the α2δ-1-GluN1 complex in PVN synaptosomes. These effects were blocked by inhibiting α2δ-1 with gabapentin or interrupting the α2δ-1-NMDAR interaction with an α2δ-1 C-terminus peptide. Treatment with FK506 potentiated the activity of presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDARs in spinally projecting PVN neurons; such effects were abolished by gabapentin, Cacna2d1 knockout, or α2δ-1 C-terminus peptide. Furthermore, microinjection of α2δ-1 C-terminus peptide into the PVN diminished renal sympathetic nerve discharges and arterial blood pressure that had been increased by FK506 treatment. Remarkably, concurrent administration of gabapentin prevented the development of FK506-induced hypertension in rats. Additionally, FK506 treatment induced sustained hypertension in wild-type mice but not in Cacna2d1 knockout mice. CONCLUSIONS α2δ-1 is essential for calcineurin inhibitor-induced increases in synaptic NMDAR activity in PVN presympathetic neurons and sympathetic outflow. Thus, α2δ-1 and α2δ-1-bound NMDARs represent new targets for treating calcineurin inhibitor-induced hypertension. Gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) could be repurposed for treating calcineurin inhibitor-induced neurogenic hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Zhou
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jian-Ying Shao
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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15
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Jin D, Chen H, Zhou MH, Chen SR, Pan HL. mGluR5 from Primary Sensory Neurons Promotes Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia and Tolerance by Interacting with and Potentiating Synaptic NMDA Receptors. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5593-5607. [PMID: 37451981 PMCID: PMC10401648 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0601-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of presynaptic NMDARs in the spinal dorsal horn is integral to opioid-induced hyperalgesia and analgesic tolerance. However, the signaling mechanisms responsible for opioid-induced NMDAR hyperactivity remain poorly identified. Here, we show that repeated treatment with morphine or fentanyl reduced monomeric mGluR5 protein levels in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) but increased levels of mGluR5 monomers and homodimers in the spinal cord in mice and rats of both sexes. Coimmunoprecipitation analysis revealed that monomeric and dimeric mGluR5 in the spinal cord, but not monomeric mGluR5 in the DRG, directly interacted with GluN1. By contrast, mGluR5 did not interact with μ-opioid receptors in the DRG or spinal cord. Repeated morphine treatment markedly increased the mGluR5-GluN1 interaction and protein levels of mGluR5 and GluN1 in spinal synaptosomes. The mGluR5 antagonist MPEP reversed morphine treatment-augmented mGluR5-GluN1 interactions, GluN1 synaptic expression, and dorsal root-evoked monosynaptic EPSCs of dorsal horn neurons. Furthermore, CRISPR-Cas9-induced conditional mGluR5 knockdown in DRG neurons normalized mGluR5 levels in spinal synaptosomes and NMDAR-mediated EPSCs of dorsal horn neurons increased by morphine treatment. Correspondingly, intrathecal injection of MPEP or conditional mGluR5 knockdown in DRG neurons not only potentiated the acute analgesic effect of morphine but also attenuated morphine treatment-induced hyperalgesia and tolerance. Together, our findings suggest that opioid treatment promotes mGluR5 trafficking from primary sensory neurons to the spinal dorsal horn. Through dimerization and direct interaction with NMDARs, presynaptic mGluR5 potentiates and/or stabilizes NMDAR synaptic expression and activity at primary afferent central terminals, thereby maintaining opioid-induced hyperalgesia and tolerance.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Opioids are essential analgesics for managing severe pain caused by cancer, surgery, and tissue injury. However, these drugs paradoxically induce pain hypersensitivity and tolerance, which can cause rapid dose escalation and even overdose mortality. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that opioids promote trafficking of mGluR5, a G protein-coupled glutamate receptor, from peripheral sensory neurons to the spinal cord; there, mGluR5 proteins dimerize and physically interact with NMDARs to augment their synaptic expression and activity. Through dynamic interactions, the two distinct glutamate receptors mutually amplify and sustain nociceptive input from peripheral sensory neurons to the spinal cord. Thus, inhibiting mGluR5 activity or disrupting mGluR5-NMDAR interactions could reduce opioid-induced hyperalgesia and tolerance and potentiate opioid analgesic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daozhong Jin
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Meng-Hua Zhou
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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16
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Huang Y, Chen H, Jin D, Chen SR, Pan HL. NMDA Receptors at Primary Afferent-Excitatory Neuron Synapses Differentially Sustain Chemotherapy- and Nerve Trauma-Induced Chronic Pain. J Neurosci 2023; 43:3933-3948. [PMID: 37185237 PMCID: PMC10217996 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0183-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The spinal dorsal horn contains vesicular glutamate transporter-2 (VGluT2)-expressing excitatory neurons and vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT)-expressing inhibitory neurons, which normally have different roles in nociceptive transmission. Spinal glutamate NMDAR hyperactivity is a crucial mechanism of chronic neuropathic pain. However, it is unclear how NMDARs regulate primary afferent input to spinal excitatory and inhibitory neurons in neuropathic pain. Also, the functional significance of presynaptic NMDARs in neuropathic pain has not been defined explicitly. Here we showed that paclitaxel treatment or spared nerve injury (SNI) similarly increased the NMDAR-mediated mEPSC frequency and dorsal root-evoked EPSCs in VGluT2 dorsal horn neurons in male and female mice. By contrast, neither paclitaxel nor SNI had any effect on mEPSCs or evoked EPSCs in VGAT neurons. In mice with conditional Grin1 (gene encoding GluN1) KO in primary sensory neurons (Grin1-cKO), paclitaxel treatment failed to induce pain hypersensitivity. Unexpectedly, SNI still caused long-lasting pain hypersensitivity in Grin1-cKO mice. SNI increased the amplitude of puff NMDA currents in VGluT2 neurons and caused similar depolarizing shifts in GABA reversal potentials in WT and Grin1-cKO mice. Concordantly, spinal Grin1 knockdown diminished SNI-induced pain hypersensitivity. Thus, presynaptic NMDARs preferentially amplify primary afferent input to spinal excitatory neurons in neuropathic pain. Although presynaptic NMDARs are required for chemotherapy-induced pain hypersensitivity, postsynaptic NMDARs in spinal excitatory neurons play a dominant role in traumatic nerve injury-induced chronic pain. Our findings reveal the divergent synaptic connectivity and functional significance of spinal presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDARs in regulating cell type-specific nociceptive input in neuropathic pain with different etiologies.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Spinal excitatory neurons relay input from nociceptors, whereas inhibitory neurons repress spinal nociceptive transmission. Chronic nerve pain is associated with aberrant NMDAR activity in the spinal dorsal horn. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that chemotherapy and traumatic nerve injury preferentially enhance the NMDAR activity at primary afferent-excitatory neuron synapses but have no effect on primary afferent input to spinal inhibitory neurons. NMDARs in primary sensory neurons are essential for chemotherapy-induced chronic pain, whereas nerve trauma causes pain hypersensitivity predominantly via postsynaptic NMDARs in spinal excitatory neurons. Thus, presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDARs at primary afferent-excitatory neuron synapses are differentially engaged in chemotherapy- and nerve injury-induced chronic pain and could be targeted respectively for treating these painful conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Huang
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Daozhong Jin
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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17
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Huang Y, Chen H, Chen SR, Pan HL. Duloxetine and Amitriptyline Reduce Neuropathic Pain by Inhibiting Primary Sensory Input to Spinal Dorsal Horn Neurons via α1- and α2-Adrenergic Receptors. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:1261-1277. [PMID: 36930958 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Antidepressants, such as duloxetine and amitriptyline, are effective for treating patients with chronic neuropathic pain. Inhibiting norepinephrine and serotonin transporters at presynaptic terminals raises extracellular concentrations of norepinephrine. The α1- and α2-adrenergic receptor agonists inhibit glutamatergic input from primary afferent nerves to the spinal dorsal horn. However, the contribution of spinal α1- and α2-adrenergic receptors to the analgesic effect of antidepressants and associated synaptic plasticity remains uncertain. In this study, we showed that systemic administration of duloxetine or amitriptyline acutely reduced tactile allodynia and mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia caused by spinal nerve ligation in rats. In contrast, duloxetine or amitriptyline had no effect on nociception in sham rats. Blocking α1-adrenergic receptors with WB-4101 or α2-adrenergic receptors with yohimbine at the spinal level diminished the analgesic effect of systemically administered duloxetine and amitriptyline. Furthermore, intrathecal injection of duloxetine or amitriptyline similarly attenuated pain hypersensitivity in nerve-injured rats; the analgesic effect was abolished by intrathecal pretreatment with both WB-4101 and yohimbine. In addition, whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in spinal cord slices showed that duloxetine or amitriptyline rapidly inhibited dorsal root-evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents in dorsal horn neurons in nerve-injured rats but had no such effect in sham rats. The inhibitory effect of duloxetine and amitriptyline was abolished by the WB-4101 and yohimbine combination. Therefore, antidepressants attenuate neuropathic pain predominantly by inhibiting primary afferent input to the spinal cord via activating both α1- and α2-adrenergic receptors. This information helps the design of new strategies to improve the treatment of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Huang
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
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18
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Prediction Model for Sensory Perception Abnormality in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032367. [PMID: 36768688 PMCID: PMC9916460 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by heterogeneous clinical phenotypes. Patients often experience abnormal sensory perception, which may further affect the ASD core phenotype, significantly and adversely affecting their quality of life. However, biomarkers for the diagnosis of ASD sensory perception abnormality are currently elusive. We sought to identify potential biomarkers related to ASD sensory perception abnormality to construct a prediction model that could facilitate the early identification of and screening for ASD. Differentially expressed genes in ASD were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and were screened for genes related to sensory perception abnormality. After enrichment analysis, the random forest method was used to identify disease-characteristic genes. A prediction model was constructed with an artificial neural network. Finally, the results were validated using data from the dorsal root ganglion, cerebral cortex, and striatum of the BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) ASD mouse model. A total of 1869 differentially expressed genes in ASD were screened, among which 16 genes related to sensory perception abnormality were identified. According to enrichment analysis, these 16 genes were mainly related to actin, cholesterol metabolism, and tight junctions. Using random forest, 15 disease-characteristic genes were screened for model construction. The area under the curve of the training set validation result was 0.999, and for the model function validation, the result was 0.711, indicating high accuracy. The validation of BTBR mice confirmed the reliability of using these disease-characteristic genes for prediction of ASD. In conclusion, we developed a highly accurate model for predicting ASD sensory perception abnormality from 15 disease-characteristic genes. This model provides a new method for the early identification and diagnosis of ASD sensory perception abnormality.
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Jin D, Chen H, Chen SR, Pan HL. α2δ-1 protein drives opioid-induced conditioned reward and synaptic NMDA receptor hyperactivity in the nucleus accumbens. J Neurochem 2023; 164:143-157. [PMID: 36222452 PMCID: PMC9892208 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Glutamate NMDA receptors (NMDARs) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) are critically involved in drug dependence and reward. α2δ-1 is a newly discovered NMDAR-interacting protein that promotes synaptic trafficking of NMDARs independently of its conventional role as a calcium channel subunit. However, it remains unclear how repeated opioid exposure affects synaptic NMDAR activity and α2δ-1-NMDAR interaction in the NAc. In this study, whole-cell patch-clamp recordings showed that repeated treatment with morphine in mice markedly increased the NMDAR-mediated frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) and amplitude of puff NMDAR currents in medium spiny neurons in the NAc core region. Morphine treatment significantly increased the physical interaction of α2δ-1 with GluN1 and their synaptic trafficking in the NAc. In Cacna2d1 knockout mice, repeated treatment with morphine failed to increase the frequency of mEPSCs and amplitude of puff NMDAR currents in the NAc core. Furthermore, inhibition of α2δ-1 with gabapentin or disruption of the α2δ-1-NMDAR interaction with the α2δ-1 C terminus-interfering peptide blocked the morphine-elevated frequency of mEPSCs and amplitude of puff NMDAR currents in the NAc core. Correspondingly, systemically administered gabapentin, Cacna2d1 ablation, or microinjection of the α2δ-1 C terminus-interfering peptide into the NAc core attenuated morphine-induced conditioned place preference and locomotor sensitization. Our study reveals that repeated opioid exposure strengthens presynaptic and postsynaptic NMDAR activity in the NAc via α2δ-1. The α2δ-1-bound NMDARs in the NAc have a key function in the rewarding effect of opioids and could be targeted for treating opioid use disorder and addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daozhong Jin
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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20
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Wu T, Chen SR, Pan HL, Luo Y. The α2δ-1-NMDA receptor complex and its potential as a therapeutic target for ischemic stroke. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1148697. [PMID: 37153659 PMCID: PMC10157046 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1148697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) play a critical role in excitotoxicity caused by ischemic stroke, but NMDAR antagonists have failed to be translated into clinical practice for treating stroke patients. Recent studies suggest that targeting the specific protein-protein interactions that regulate NMDARs may be an effective strategy to reduce excitotoxicity associated with brain ischemia. α2δ-1 (encoded by the Cacna2d1 gene), previously known as a subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels, is a binding protein of gabapentinoids used clinically for treating chronic neuropathic pain and epilepsy. Recent studies indicate that α2δ-1 is an interacting protein of NMDARs and can promote synaptic trafficking and hyperactivity of NMDARs in neuropathic pain conditions. In this review, we highlight the newly identified roles of α2δ-1-mediated NMDAR activity in the gabapentinoid effects and NMDAR excitotoxicity during brain ischemia as well as targeting α2δ-1-bound NMDARs as a potential treatment for ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education of China, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Hui-Lin Pan
| | - Yi Luo
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Luo
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21
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Chen SR, Chen H, Jin D, Pan HL. Brief Opioid Exposure Paradoxically Augments Primary Afferent Input to Spinal Excitatory Neurons via α2δ-1-Dependent Presynaptic NMDA Receptors. J Neurosci 2022; 42:9315-9329. [PMID: 36379705 PMCID: PMC9794381 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1704-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment with opioids not only inhibits nociceptive transmission but also elicits a rebound and persistent increase in primary afferent input to the spinal cord. Opioid-elicited long-term potentiation (LTP) from TRPV1-expressing primary afferents plays a major role in opioid-induced hyperalgesia and analgesic tolerance. Here, we determined whether opioid-elicited LTP involves vesicular glutamate transporter-2 (VGluT2) or vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT) neurons in the spinal dorsal horn of male and female mice and identified underlying signaling mechanisms. Spinal cord slice recordings revealed that µ-opioid receptor (MOR) stimulation with DAMGO initially inhibited dorsal root-evoked EPSCs in 87% VGluT2 neurons and subsequently induced LTP in 49% of these neurons. Repeated morphine treatment increased the prevalence of VGluT2 neurons displaying LTP with a short onset latency. In contrast, DAMGO inhibited EPSCs in 46% VGAT neurons but did not elicit LTP in any VGAT neurons even in morphine-treated mice. Spinal superficial laminae were densely innervated by MOR-containing nerve terminals and were occupied by mostly VGluT2 neurons and few VGAT neurons. Furthermore, conditional Grin1 knockout in dorsal root ganglion neurons diminished DAMGO-elicited LTP in lamina II neurons and attenuated hyperalgesia and analgesic tolerance induced by repeated treatment with morphine. In addition, DAMGO-elicited LTP in VGluT2 neurons was abolished by protein kinase C inhibition, gabapentin, Cacna2d1 knockout, or disrupting the α2δ-1-NMDA receptor interaction with an α2δ-1 C terminus peptide. Thus, brief MOR stimulation distinctively potentiates nociceptive primary afferent input to excitatory dorsal horn neurons via α2δ-1-coupled presynaptic NMDA receptors, thereby causing hyperalgesia and reducing analgesic actions of opioids.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Opioid drugs are potent analgesics for treating severe pain and are commonly used during general anesthesia. However, opioid use often induces pain hypersensitivity, rapid loss of analgesic efficacy, and dose escalation, which can cause dependence, addiction, and even overdose fatality. This study demonstrates for the first time that brief opioid exposure preferentially augments primary sensory input to genetically identified glutamatergic excitatory, but not GABAergic/glycinergic inhibitory, neurons in nociceptive dorsal horn circuits. This opioid-elicited synaptic plasticity is cell type specific and mediated by protein kinase C-dependent and α2δ-1-dependent activation of NMDA receptors at primary sensory nerve terminals. These findings elucidate how intraoperative use of opioids for preemptive analgesia paradoxically aggravates postoperative pain and increases opioid consumption and suggest new strategies to improve opioid analgesic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Daozhong Jin
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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22
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Zhang J, Chen SR, Zhou MH, Jin D, Chen H, Wang L, DePinho RA, Pan HL. HDAC2 in Primary Sensory Neurons Constitutively Restrains Chronic Pain by Repressing α2δ-1 Expression and Associated NMDA Receptor Activity. J Neurosci 2022; 42:8918-8935. [PMID: 36257688 PMCID: PMC9732832 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0735-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
α2δ-1 (encoded by the Cacna2d1 gene) is a newly discovered NMDA receptor-interacting protein and is the therapeutic target of gabapentinoids (e.g., gabapentin and pregabalin) frequently used for treating patients with neuropathic pain. Nerve injury causes sustained α2δ-1 upregulation in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), which promotes NMDA receptor synaptic trafficking and activation in the spinal dorsal horn, a hallmark of chronic neuropathic pain. However, little is known about how nerve injury initiates and maintains the high expression level of α2δ-1 to sustain chronic pain. Here, we show that nerve injury caused histone hyperacetylation and diminished enrichment of histone deacetylase-2 (HDAC2), but not HDAC3, at the Cacna2d1 promoter in the DRG. Strikingly, Hdac2 knockdown or conditional knockout in DRG neurons in male and female mice consistently induced long-lasting mechanical pain hypersensitivity, which was readily reversed by blocking NMDA receptors, inhibiting α2δ-1 with gabapentin or disrupting the α2δ-1-NMDA receptor interaction at the spinal cord level. Hdac2 deletion in DRG neurons increased histone acetylation levels at the Cacna2d1 promoter, upregulated α2δ-1 in the DRG, and potentiated α2δ-1-dependent NMDA receptor activity at primary afferent central terminals in the spinal dorsal horn. Correspondingly, Hdac2 knockdown-induced pain hypersensitivity was blunted in Cacna2d1 knockout mice. Thus, our findings reveal that HDAC2 functions as a pivotal transcriptional repressor of neuropathic pain via constitutively suppressing α2δ-1 expression and ensuing presynaptic NMDA receptor activity in the spinal cord. HDAC2 enrichment levels at the Cacna2d1 promoter in DRG neurons constitute a unique epigenetic mechanism that governs acute-to-chronic pain transition.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Excess α2δ-1 proteins produced after nerve injury directly interact with glutamate NMDA receptors to potentiate synaptic NMDA receptor activity in the spinal cord, a prominent mechanism of nerve pain. Because α2δ-1 upregulation after nerve injury is long lasting, gabapentinoids relieve pain symptoms only temporarily. Our study demonstrates for the first time the unexpected role of intrinsic HDAC2 activity at the α2δ-1 gene promoter in limiting α2δ-1 gene transcription, NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic plasticity, and chronic pain development after nerve injury. These findings challenge the prevailing view about the role of general HDAC activity in promoting chronic pain. Restoring the repressive HDAC2 function and/or reducing histone acetylation at the α2δ-1 gene promoter in primary sensory neurons could lead to long-lasting relief of nerve pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jixiang Zhang
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Meng-Hua Zhou
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Daozhong Jin
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Li Wang
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Ronald A DePinho
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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23
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Jin D, Chen H, Huang Y, Chen SR, Pan HL. δ-Opioid receptors in primary sensory neurons tonically restrain nociceptive input in chronic pain but do not enhance morphine analgesic tolerance. Neuropharmacology 2022; 217:109202. [PMID: 35917874 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
δ-Opioid receptors (DORs, encoded by the Oprd1 gene) are expressed throughout the peripheral and central nervous system, and DOR stimulation reduces nociception. Previous studies suggest that DORs promote the development of analgesic tolerance of μ-opioid receptor (MOR) agonists. It is uncertain whether DORs expressed in primary sensory neurons are involved in regulating chronic pain and MOR agonist-induced tolerance. In this study, we generated Oprd1 conditional knockout (Oprd1-cKO) mice by crossing Advillin-Cre mice with Oprd1-floxed mice. DOR expression in the dorsal root ganglion was diminished in Oprd1-cKO mice. Systemic or intrathecal injection of the DOR agonist SNC-80 produced analgesia in wild-type (WT), but not Oprd1-cKO, mice. In contrast, intracerebroventricular injection of SNC-80 produced a similar analgesic effect in WT and Oprd1-cKO mice. However, morphine-induced analgesia, hyperalgesia, or analgesic tolerance did not differ between WT and Oprd1-cKO mice. Compared with WT mice, Oprd1-cKO mice showed increased mechanical and heat hypersensitivity after nerve injury or tissue inflammation. Furthermore, blocking DORs with naltrindole increased nociceptive sensitivity induced by nerve injury or tissue inflammation in WT, but not Oprd1-cKO, mice. In addition, naltrindole potentiated glutamatergic input from primary afferents to spinal dorsal horn neurons increased by nerve injury or CFA in WT mice; this effect was absent in Oprd1-cKO mice. Our findings indicate that DORs in primary sensory neurons are critically involved in the analgesic effect of DOR agonists but not morphine-induced analgesic tolerance. Presynaptic DORs at primary afferent central terminals constitutively inhibit inflammatory and neuropathic pain by restraining glutamatergic input to spinal dorsal horn neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daozhong Jin
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yuying Huang
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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24
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Wu C, Liu Y, Wan K, Lan Y, Jia M, Lin L, Gao S, Chen K, Yang J, Pan HL, Li M, Mao H. Long Non-Coding RNA and mRNA Profiles in the Spinal Cord of Rats with Resiniferatoxin-Induced Neuropathic Pain. J Pain Res 2022; 15:2149-2160. [PMID: 35935680 PMCID: PMC9348574 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s368599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The ultrapotent transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) agonist resiniferatoxin (RTX) induces small-fiber sensory neuropathy, which has been widely used model of postherpetic neuralgia to study mechanisms of neuropathic pain and new analgesics. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) and mRNA expression profiles in spinal dorsal horn tissues of rats six weeks after RTX injection to identify new RNAs related to neuropathic pain. Methods Microarray technology was applied to determine lncRNA expressions in spinal dorsal horn samples of adult rats 6 weeks after treatment with RTX or vehicle. The lncNA/mRNA co-expression network was constructed, and differential expression patterns of lncRNA and mRNA in RTX-treated rats were identified. Differential expressions of lncRNAs and mRNAs between RTX-treated samples and control samples were examined by RT-qPCR. Results Microarray analyses showed that 745 mRNA and 139 lncRNAs were upregulated, whereas 590 mRNA and 140 lncRNAs were downregulated in spinal dorsal horn tissues after RTX exposure. TargetScan was used to predict mRNA targets for these lncRNAs, which showed that the transcripts with multiple predicted target sites were related to neurologically important pathways. In addition, differential expressions of lncRNA (ENSRNOG00000022535, ENSRNOG00000042027, NR_027478, NR_030675) and Apobec3b mRNA in spinal cord tissue samples were validated, which confirmed the microarray data. The association between NR_030675 and Apobec3b levels was confirmed, which may be related to neuropathic pain. Conclusion Our study reveals lncRNA and mRNA of molecule targets that are enriched in the spinal cord dorsal horn and provides new information for further investigation on the mechanisms and therapeutics of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caihua Wu
- Department of Acupuncture, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongmin Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kexing Wan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuye Lan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Jia
- Clinical Laboratories, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lixue Lin
- Department of Rehabilitation, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shan Gao
- Department of Acupuncture, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ke Chen
- Department of Acupuncture, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinmei Yang
- Department of Acupuncture, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Man Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic medicine, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongrong Mao
- Department of Acupuncture, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China
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Ghosh K, Zhang GF, Chen H, Chen SR, Pan HL. Cannabinoid CB2 receptors are upregulated via bivalent histone modifications and control primary afferent input to the spinal cord in neuropathic pain. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101999. [PMID: 35500651 PMCID: PMC9168157 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Type-2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2, encoded by the Cnr2 gene) are mainly expressed in immune cells, and CB2 agonists normally have no analgesic effect. However, nerve injury upregulates CB2 in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), following which CB2 stimulation reduces neuropathic pain. It is unclear how nerve injury increases CB2 expression or how CB2 activity is transformed in neuropathic pain. In this study, immunoblotting showed that spinal nerve ligation (SNL) induced a delayed and sustained increase in CB2 expression in the DRG and dorsal spinal cord synaptosomes. RNAscope in situ hybridization also showed that SNL substantially increased CB2 mRNA levels, mostly in medium and large DRG neurons. Furthermore, we found that the specific CB2 agonist JWH-133 significantly inhibits the amplitude of dorsal root-evoked glutamatergic excitatory postsynaptic currents in spinal dorsal horn neurons in SNL rats, but not in sham control rats; intrathecal injection of JWH-133 reversed pain hypersensitivity in SNL rats, but had no effect in sham control rats. In addition, chromatin immunoprecipitation-qPCR analysis showed that SNL increased enrichment of two activating histone marks (H3K4me3 and H3K9ac) and diminished occupancy of two repressive histone marks (H3K9me2 and H3K27me3) at the Cnr2 promoter in the DRG. In contrast, SNL had no effect on DNA methylation levels around the Cnr2 promoter. Our findings suggest that peripheral nerve injury promotes CB2 expression in primary sensory neurons via epigenetic bivalent histone modifications and that CB2 activation reduces neuropathic pain by attenuating nociceptive transmission from primary afferent nerves to the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Ghosh
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Guang-Fen Zhang
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
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26
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Dedek A, Hildebrand ME. Advances and Barriers in Understanding Presynaptic N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptors in Spinal Pain Processing. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:864502. [PMID: 35431805 PMCID: PMC9008455 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.864502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors have been known to play a critical role in the modulation of both acute and chronic pain. Of particular interest are NMDA receptors expressed in the superficial dorsal horn (SDH) of the spinal cord, which houses the nociceptive processing circuits of the spinal cord. In the SDH, NMDA receptors undergo potentiation and increases in the trafficking of receptors to the synapse, both of which contribute to increases in excitability and plastic increases in nociceptive output from the SDH to the brain. Research efforts have primarily focused on postsynaptic NMDA receptors, despite findings that presynaptic NMDA receptors can undergo similar plastic changes to their postsynaptic counterparts. Recent technological advances have been pivotal in the discovery of mechanisms of plastic changes in presynaptic NMDA receptors within the SDH. Here, we highlight these recent advances in the understanding of presynaptic NMDA receptor physiology and their modulation in models of chronic pain. We discuss the role of specific NMDA receptor subunits in presynaptic membranes of nociceptive afferents and local SDH interneurons, including their modulation across pain modalities. Furthermore, we discuss how barriers such as lack of sex-inclusive research and differences in neurodevelopmental timepoints have complicated investigations into the roles of NMDA receptors in pathological pain states. A more complete understanding of presynaptic NMDA receptor function and modulation across pain states is needed to shed light on potential new therapeutic treatments for chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie Dedek
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Neuroscience Department, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Michael E. Hildebrand
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Neuroscience Department, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Michael E. Hildebrand,
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27
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Wang B, Li X, Yu N, Yang L, Nan C, Guo L, Zhao Z. Intracerebral hemorrhage alters α2δ1 and thrombospondin expression in rats. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:327. [PMID: 35386622 PMCID: PMC8972837 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium voltage-gated channel auxiliary subunit (α2δ1) is a non-essential subunit of the voltage-gated calcium channel complex and is ubiquitously expressed in a number of tissues, including the brain. Thrombospondin (TSP)1 and TSP2 are extracellular matrix proteins and belong to the multi-domain glycoprotein family of macromolecular oligomers. TSP1/2 and α2δ1 promote synapse formation and functional recovery following cerebral infarction. However, to the best of our knowledge, the expression levels of α2δ1 and TSP1/2 in brain tissues, and the effects of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) on these levels have not yet been elucidated. The present study established a rat model of hemorrhage induced by injecting collagenase IV into the striatum to determine the changes in α2δ1 and TSP1/2 expression following ICH. The protein expression levels of α2δ1 and TSP1 in the striatum after hemorrhage were significantly increased on day 5 and returned to baseline levels on day 21; however, the protein expression levels of TSP2 were decreased on day 5, whereas they increased on day 14, subsequently returning to baseline levels. In addition, using proteomics analysis of tissues from the sham group (saline injection) and at 24 h post-ICH, it was found that both α2δ1 and TSP1 interacted with neural EGFL like 2. Taken together, these findings suggested that the expression levels of α2δ1 and TSP1/2 were altered in brain tissues in response to ICH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingqian Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaopeng Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Ning Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Liang Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Chengrui Nan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Lisi Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Zongmao Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
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Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a challenging clinical problem and remains difficult to treat. Altered gene expression in peripheral sensory nerves and neurons due to nerve injury is well documented and contributes critically to the synaptic plasticity in the spinal cord and the initiation and maintenance of chronic pain. However, our understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms regulating the transcription of pro-nociceptive (e.g., NMDA receptors and α2δ-1) and antinociceptive (e.g., potassium channels and opioid and cannabinoid receptors) genes are still limited. In this review, we summarize recent studies determining the roles of histone modifications (including methylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination), DNA methylation, and noncoding RNAs in neuropathic pain development. We review the epigenetic writer, reader, and eraser proteins that participate in the transcriptional control of the expression of key ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors in the dorsal root ganglion after traumatic nerve injury, which is commonly used as a preclinical model of neuropathic pain. A better understanding of epigenetic reprogramming involved in the transition from acute to chronic pain could lead to the development of new treatments for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Ghosh
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, United States
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29
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Zhou JJ, Shao JY, Chen SR, Chen H, Pan HL. α2δ-1 Protein Promotes Synaptic Expression of Ca 2+ Permeable-AMPA Receptors by Inhibiting GluA1/GluA2 Heteromeric Assembly in the Hypothalamus in Hypertension. J Neurochem 2022; 161:40-52. [PMID: 35038178 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Glutamate AMPA receptors (AMPARs) lacking GluA2 subunit are calcium permeable (CP-AMPARs), which are increased in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and maintain sympathetic outflow in hypertension. Here, we determined the role of α2δ-1, an NMDA receptor-interacting protein, in regulating synaptic CP-AMPARs in the hypothalamus in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Co-immunoprecipitation showed that levels of GluA1/GluA2, but not GluA2/GluA3, protein complexes in hypothalamic synaptosomes were reduced in SHR compared with Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). The level of GluA1/GluA2 heteromers in endoplasmic reticulum-enriched fractions of the hypothalamus was significantly lower in SHR than in WKY, which was restored by inhibiting α2δ-1 with gabapentin. Gabapentin also switched AMPAR-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents (AMPAR-EPSCs) from inward rectifying to linear and attenuated the inhibitory effect of IEM-1460, a selective CP-AMPAR blocker, on AMPAR-EPSCs in spinally projecting PVN neurons in SHR. Furthermore, co-immunoprecipitation revealed that α2δ-1 directly interacted with GluA1 and GluA2 in the hypothalamus of rats and humans. Levels of α2δ-1/GluA1 and α2δ-1/GluA2 protein complexes in the hypothalamus were significantly greater in SHR than in WKY. Disrupting the α2δ-1-AMPAR interaction with an α2δ-1 C terminus peptide normalized GluA1/GluA2 heteromers in the endoplasmic reticulum of the hypothalamus diminished in SHR. In addition, α2δ-1 C terminus peptide diminished inward rectification of AMPAR-EPSCs and the inhibitory effect of IEM-1460 on AMPAR-EPSCs of PVN neurons in SHR. Thus, α2δ-1 augments synaptic CP-AMPARs by inhibiting GluA1/GluA2 heteromeric assembly in the hypothalamus in hypertension. These findings extend our understanding of the molecular basis of sustained sympathetic outflow in neurogenic hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Zhou
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jian-Ying Shao
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shao-Rui Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hui-Lin Pan
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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30
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Defaye M, Abdullah NS, Iftinca M, Hassan A, Agosti F, Zhang Z, Cumenal M, Zamponi GW, Altier C. Gut-innervating TRPV1+ Neurons Drive Chronic Visceral Pain via Microglial P2Y12 Receptor. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 13:977-999. [PMID: 34954381 PMCID: PMC8867057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2021.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Chronic abdominal pain is a common symptom of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Peripheral and central mechanisms contribute to the transition from acute to chronic pain during active disease and clinical remission. Lower mechanical threshold and hyperexcitability of visceral afferents induce gliosis in central pain circuits, leading to persistent visceral hypersensitivity (VHS). In the spinal cord, microglia, the immune sentinels of the central nervous system, undergo activation in multiple models of VHS. Here, we investigated the mechanisms of microglia activation to identify centrally acting analgesics for chronic IBD pain. METHODS Using Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADD) expressed in transient receptor potential vanilloid member 1-expressing visceral neurons that sense colonic inflammation, we tested whether neuronal activity was indispensable to control microglia activation and VHS. We then investigated the neuron-microglia signaling system involved in visceral pain chronification. RESULTS We found that chemogenetic inhibition of transient receptor potential vanilloid member 1+ visceral afferents prevents microglial activation in the spinal cord and subsequent VHS in colitis mice. In contrast, chemogenetic activation, in the absence of colitis, enhanced microglial activation associated with VHS. We identified a purinergic signaling mechanism mediated by neuronal adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and microglial P2Y12 receptor, triggering VHS in colitis. Inhibition of P2RY12 prevented microglial reactivity and chronic VHS post-colitis. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these data provide novel insights into the central mechanisms of chronic visceral pain and suggest that targeting microglial P2RY12 signaling could be harnessed to relieve pain in patients with IBD who are in remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Defaye
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network-Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nasser S. Abdullah
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network-Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mircea Iftinca
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network-Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ahmed Hassan
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network-Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Francina Agosti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network-Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Zizhen Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Melissa Cumenal
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network-Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gerald W. Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christophe Altier
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Inflammation Research Network-Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Correspondence Address correspondence to: Christophe Altier, PhD, Associate Professor, Canada Research Chair in Inflammatory Pain, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Inflammation Research Network, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, HS 1665, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, AB, T2N4N1 Canada. tel: (403) 220-7549.
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