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Frew E, Sainty R, Chappell-Maor L, Bone C, Daskeviciute D, Russell S, Buhigas C, Iglesias-Platas I, Lartey J, Monk D. Differential expression of PPP1R12A transcripts, including those harbouring alternatively spliced micro-exons, in placentae from complicated pregnancies. Placenta 2024; 151:1-9. [PMID: 38615553 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Placenta-associated pregnancy complications, including pre-eclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are conditions postulated to originate from initial failure of placentation, leading to clinical sequelae indicative of endothelial dysfunction. Vascular smooth muscle aberrations have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of both disorders via smooth muscle contractility and relaxation mediated by Myosin Light Chain Phosphatase (MLCP) and the oppositional contractile action of Myosin Light Chain Kinase. PPP1R12A is a constituent part of the MLCP complex responsible for dephosphorylation of myosin fibrils. We hypothesize that alternative splicing of micro-exons result in isoforms lacking the functional leucine zipper (LZ) domain which may give those cells expressing these alternative transcripts a tendency towards contraction and vasoconstriction. METHODS Expression was determined by qRT-PCR. Epigenetic profiling consisted of bisulphite-based DNA methylation analysis and ChIP for underlying histone modifications. RESULTS We identified several novel transcripts with alternative micro-exon inclusion that would produce LZ- PPP1R12A protein. qRT-PCR revealed some isoforms, including the PPP1R12A canonical transcript, are differentially expressed in placenta biopsies from PE and IUGR samples compared to uncomplicated pregnancies. DISCUSSION We propose that upregulation of PPP1R12A expression in complicated pregnancies may be due to enhanced promoter activity leading to increased transcription as a response to physiological stress in the placenta, which we show is independent of promoter DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Frew
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Rebecca Sainty
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Louise Chappell-Maor
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Caitlin Bone
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Dagne Daskeviciute
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Sarah Russell
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Claudia Buhigas
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Isabel Iglesias-Platas
- Neonatal Unit, Institut de Recerca, Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain; Neonatal Research, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Jon Lartey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK; Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - David Monk
- Biomedical Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.
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P K M, C J, T N, F A L, M Harshan H, R S A, S A. Etiology behind canine uterine inertia: Role of uterine expression of MLCK4, MYH2, and PKC genes. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 256:107298. [PMID: 37499285 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Dystocia is an obstetrical emergency, and primary uterine inertia (PUI) is the major etiological reason among the more prevalent maternal causes in dogs. The present study involved the relative expression analysis of genes associated with myometrial contraction in medium-sized dog breeds with uterine inertia. Dogs without any progress in the parturition process even after four hours of the onset of labor and the absence of uterine contractions were considered to have complete primary uterine inertia (CPUI, n = 9). Dogs that had expelled at least one fetus and made no further progress in parturition in the absence of active uterine contraction were considered to be experiencing partial primary uterine inertia (PPUI, n = 6). Dogs with the fetal cause of dystocia (FCD), i.e., obstructive dystocia, were taken as the third (n = 7) group. Uterine tissue samples were collected during cesarean section in each group, RNA was isolated, and the relative expression of myometrial ACTA2, ACTG2, MLCK4, MYH2, and PKC genes was analyzed. The MLCK4 gene expression was downregulated in CPUI (P ≤ 0.05) and PPUI (P ≤ 0.01) when compared to FCD. The MYH2 gene expression was downregulated in PPUI in comparison to CPUI (P ≤ 0.01) and FCD (P ≤ 0.05). The PKC gene expression was upregulated in PPUI in comparison to FCD and CPUI (P ≤ 0.05). The downregulation of MLCK4 and MYH2 gene expressions recorded in PPUI indicated the possibility of myometrial defects. The possibility of myometrial defects was also observed in CPUI, but to a lesser degree, suggesting other etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus P K
- Department of Animal Reproduction Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thrissur, Kerala, India.
| | - Jayakumar C
- Department of Animal Reproduction Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Naicy T
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Lali F A
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Hiron M Harshan
- Department of Animal Reproduction Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Abhilash R S
- Department of Animal Reproduction Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Ajithkumar S
- University Veterinary Hospital and Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Mannuthy, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Thrissur, Kerala, India
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β-Arrestin2 Is Critically Involved in the Differential Regulation of Phosphosignaling Pathways by Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone and Taltirelin. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091473. [PMID: 35563779 PMCID: PMC9103620 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) and its analogs, including taltirelin (TAL), have demonstrated a range of effects on the central nervous system that represent potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of various neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms of their actions remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated phosphosignaling dynamics in pituitary GH1 cells affected by TRH and TAL and the putative role of β-arrestin2 in mediating these effects. Our results revealed widespread alterations in many phosphosignaling pathways involving signal transduction via small GTPases, MAP kinases, Ser/Thr- and Tyr-protein kinases, Wnt/β-catenin, and members of the Hippo pathway. The differential TRH- or TAL-induced phosphorylation of numerous proteins suggests that these ligands exhibit some degree of biased agonism at the TRH receptor. The different phosphorylation patterns induced by TRH or TAL in β-arrestin2-deficient cells suggest that the β-arrestin2 scaffold is a key factor determining phosphorylation events after TRH receptor activation. Our results suggest that compounds that modulate kinase and phosphatase activity can be considered as additional adjuvants to enhance the potential therapeutic value of TRH or TAL.
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Carvajal JA, Oporto JI. The Myometrium in Pregnant Women with Obesity. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2021; 19:193-200. [PMID: 32484103 DOI: 10.2174/1570161118666200525133530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is a worldwide public health problem, affecting at least one-third of pregnant women. One of the main problems of obesity during pregnancy is the resulting high rate of cesarean section. The leading cause of this higher frequency of cesarean sections in obese women, compared with that in nonobese women, is an altered myometrial function that leads to lower frequency and potency of contractions. In this article, the disruptions of myometrial myocytes were reviewed in obese women during pregnancy that may explain the dysfunctional labor. The myometrium of obese women exhibited lower expression of connexin43, a lower function of the oxytocin receptor, and higher activity of the potassium channels. Adipokines, such as leptin, visfatin, and apelin, whose concentrations are higher in obese women, decreased myometrial contractility, perhaps by inhibiting the myometrial RhoA/ROCK pathway. The characteristically higher cholesterol levels of obese women alter myometrial myocyte cell membranes, especially the caveolae, inhibiting oxytocin receptor function, and increasing the K+ channel activity. All these changes in the myometrial cells or their environment decrease myometrial contractility, at least partially explaining the higher rate of cesarean of sections in obese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A Carvajal
- Departamento de Obstetricia, Unidad de Medicina Materno Fetal, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Joaquín I Oporto
- Estudiante de Medicina, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Malik M, Roh M, England SK. Uterine contractions in rodent models and humans. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 231:e13607. [PMID: 33337577 PMCID: PMC8047897 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant uterine contractions can lead to preterm birth and other labour complications and are a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. To investigate the mechanisms underlying dysfunctional uterine contractions, researchers have used experimentally tractable small animal models. However, biological differences between humans and rodents change how researchers select their animal model and interpret their results. Here, we provide a general review of studies of uterine excitation and contractions in mice, rats, guinea pigs, and humans, in an effort to introduce new researchers to the field and help in the design and interpretation of experiments in rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasi Malik
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMOUSA
| | - Michelle Roh
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMOUSA
| | - Sarah K. England
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMOUSA
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Frehner BL, Reichler IM, Kowalewski MP, Gram A, Keller S, Goericke-Pesch S, Balogh O. Implications of the RhoA/Rho associated kinase pathway and leptin in primary uterine inertia in the dog. J Reprod Dev 2021; 67:207-215. [PMID: 33746146 PMCID: PMC8238673 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2020-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The underlying functional and molecular changes in canine primary uterine inertia (PUI) are still not clarified. Leptin (Lep) and obesity negatively affect
uterine contractility in women, partly mediated by the RhoA/Rho associated kinase pathway, affecting myometrial calcium sensitization. We hypothesized that
increased uterine Lep/Lep receptor (LepR) or decreased RhoA/Rho associated kinase expression contributes to PUI in dogs, independent of obesity. Dogs presented
for dystocia were grouped into PUI (n = 11) or obstructive dystocia (OD, still showing strong labor contractions; n = 7). Interplacental full-thickness uterine
biopsies were collected during Cesarean section for relative gene expression (RGE) of RhoA, its effector kinases (ROCK1,
ROCK2), Lep and LepR by qPCR. Protein and/or mRNA expression and localization was evaluated by immunohistochemistry
and in situ hybridization. RGE was compared between groups by one-way ANOVA using body weight as covariate with statistical significance at P
< 0.05. Uterine ROCK1 and ROCK2 gene expression was significantly higher in PUI than OD, while RhoA and
Lep did not differ. LepR RGE was below the detection limit in five PUI and all OD dogs. Litter size had no influence. Lep,
LepR, RhoA, ROCK1, ROCK2 protein and/or mRNA were localized in the myometrium and endometrium. Uterine protein expression appeared similar between groups.
LepR mRNA signals appeared stronger in PUI than OD. In conclusion, lasting, strong labor contractions in OD likely resulted in downregulation
of uterine ROCK1 and ROCK2, contrasting the higher expression in PUI dogs with insufficient contractions. The Lep-LepR system
may affect uterine contractility in non-obese PUI dogs in a paracrine-autocrine manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Lourdes Frehner
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Iris Margaret Reichler
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Aykut Gram
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, Turkey
| | - Stefanie Keller
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Goericke-Pesch
- Section for Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.,Reproductive Unit of the Clinics - Small Animal, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Orsolya Balogh
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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Ma XL, Li X, Tian FJ, Zeng WH, Zhang J, Mo HQ, Qin S, Sun LQ, Zhang YC, Zhang Y, Lin Y. Upregulation of RND3 Affects Trophoblast Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Migration at the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:153. [PMID: 32232044 PMCID: PMC7083256 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Trophoblasts as the particular cells of the placenta play an important role in implantation and formation of the maternal-fetal interface. RND3 (also known as RhoE) is a unique member of the Rnd subfamily of small GTP-binding proteins. However, its function in cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) at the maternal-fetal interface is poorly understood. In the present study, we found that RND3 expression was significantly increased in trophoblasts from the villous tissues of patients with recurrent miscarriage (RM). RND3 inhibited proliferation and migration and promoted apoptosis in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Using dual-luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, we found that forkhead box D3 (FOXD3) is a key transcription factor that binds to the RND3 core promoter region and regulates RND3 expression. Here, the level of FOXD3 was upregulated in the first-trimester CTBs of patients with RM, which in turn mediated RND3 function, including inhibition of cell proliferation and migration and promotion of apoptosis. Further, we found that RND3 regulates trophoblast migration and proliferation via the RhoA-ROCK1 signaling pathway and inhibits apoptosis via ERK1/2 signaling. Taken together, our findings suggest that RND3 and FOXD3 may be involved in pathogenesis of RM and may serve as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ling Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Fu-Ju Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Hong Zeng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui-Qin Mo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi Qin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Qun Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Chen Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Lin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Montagnana M, Benati M, Tagetti A, Raffaelli R, Danese E, Zatti N, Marcon D, Branz L, Micheli C, Franchi M, Fava C, Lippi G. Evaluation of circ_100219 and miR-135b in serum and exosomes of healthy pregnant women. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 34:3645-3650. [PMID: 31722587 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2019.1689556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are recently discovered and highly stable noncoding RNAs acting as gene regulators. These circRNAs can function as miRNA sponges, thereby upregulating or downregulating miRNA target gene expression. MiR-135b is expressed in placenta tissue and can be found in maternal circulation, thus playing a functional role in pregnancy. This miR is a target of circ_100219. This preliminary study was aimed to evaluate circ_100219 and miR-135b expression in pregnant and nonpregnant women, and explore the relationship between circ_100219 and miR-135b in serum and exosomes.Methods: Total RNA was isolated from serum and exosomes of 30 healthy pregnant women (32.9 ± 5.1 years) between 23-27 gestational weeks and 30 healthy nonpregnant women (31.3 ± 5.4 years). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to quantify circ_100219 and miR-135b expression. GAPDH and U6 snRNA were chosen as reference for normalizing expression levels. The differences between pregnant and nonpregnant women were assessed with Mann-Whitney test and correlation with Spearman's test.Results: The circ_100219 expression levels were significantly lower both in serum and exosomes of second trimester pregnant women compared to the control group (p < .0001), whilst Mir-135b expression levels were significantly higher in pregnant than in the control group (p < .0001). A significant negative correlation was observed between circ_100219 and miR-135b expression levels in both serum and exosomes (r = -0.34 and p = .009; r = -0.31 and p = .01, respectively). The circ_100219:miR-135b ratio was significantly increased in nonpregnant women compared to the pregnant group, in both serum and exosomes (49.0 versus 1.1, p < .0001 and 2042.4 versus 28.5, p < .0001, respectively).Conclusions: Our results confirm a role for circ_100219 and miR-135b in physiological pregnancy. Further studies are needed to investigate the circ_100219:miR-135b ratio in pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Montagnana
- Department Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Clinical Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Benati
- Department Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Clinical Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Angela Tagetti
- Department of Medicine, Medicine C Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ricciarda Raffaelli
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Danese
- Department Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Clinical Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Zatti
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Denise Marcon
- Department of Medicine, Medicine C Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Lorella Branz
- Department of Medicine, Medicine C Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Micheli
- Department of Medicine, Medicine C Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Franchi
- Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cristiano Fava
- Department of Medicine, Medicine C Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lippi
- Department Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Clinical Biochemistry Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Jagla CAD, Scott CE, Tang Y, Qiao C, Mateo-Semidey GE, Yudowski GA, Lu D, Kendall DA. Pyrimidinyl Biphenylureas Act as Allosteric Modulators to Activate Cannabinoid Receptor 1 and Initiate β-Arrestin-Dependent Responses. Mol Pharmacol 2018; 95:1-10. [PMID: 30322873 DOI: 10.1124/mol.118.112854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) is a G-protein-coupled receptor that is abundant in the central nervous system. It binds several compounds in its orthosteric site, including the endocannabinoids, arachidonoyl ethanolamide (anandamide) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol, and the plant-derived Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, one of the main psychoactive components of marijuana. It primarily couples to Gi/o proteins to inhibit adenylate cyclase activity and typically induces downstream signaling that is Gi-dependent. Since this receptor is implicated in several maladies, such as obesity, pain, and neurodegenerative disorders, there is interest in developing therapeutics that selectively target this receptor. Allosteric modulators of CB1 offer one new approach that has tremendous therapeutic potential. Here, we reveal receptor- and cellular-level properties consistent with receptor activation by a series of pyrimidinyl biphenylureas (LDK1285, LDK1288, LDK1305, and PSNCBAM1), including promoting binding of the agonist CP55940 with positive cooperativity and inhibiting binding of the inverse agonist SR141716A with negative cooperativity, demonstrated via radioligand binding studies. Consistent with these findings, the allosteric modulators induced cellular internalization of the receptor and recruitment of β-arrestin 2 in human embryonic kidney cell line 293 cells monitored with confocal and total internal reflective fluorescence microscopy, respectively. These allosteric modulators, however, caused G-protein-independent but β-arrestin 1-dependent phosphorylation of the downstream kinases extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and Src, shown by immunoblotting studies. These results are consistent with the involvement of β-arrestin and suggest that these allosteric modulators induce biased signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A D Jagla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Caitlin E Scott
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Yaliang Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Changjiang Qiao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Gabriel E Mateo-Semidey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Guillermo A Yudowski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Dai Lu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
| | - Debra A Kendall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut (C.A.D.J., C.E.S., Y.T., D.A.K.); Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.) and Institute of Neurobiology (G.E.M.-S., G.A.Y.), University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Kingsville, Texas (C.Q., D.L.)
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Hudson CA, López Bernal A. Phosphorylation of proteins during human myometrial contractions: A phosphoproteomic approach. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 482:1393-1399. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.12.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Investigating the effects of the Rho-kinase enzyme inhibitors AS1892802 and fasudil hydrochloride on the contractions of isolated pregnant rat myometrium. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 202:45-50. [PMID: 27160814 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2016.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rho-kinases (ROCKs), are one of the dynamic structures of the actin cytoskeleton and they mediate different biological processes, including regulation of calcium sensitivity of smooth muscle contraction. The activation of Rho A/ROCK system is thought to be effective on the termination time of the pregnancy process. The aim of this study, was to investigate in vitro effects of the ROCK enzyme inhibitors, clinically available fasudil hydrochloride, and a new promising inhibitor AS1892802, on the contractions of isolated pregnant rat myometrium. STUDY DESIGN Term pregnant Wistar albino rats (n=12), weighing 200-220g, were used in this study. Myometrial tissues obtained from rats were dissected into four full-thickness longitudinal muscle strips and then myometrial tension was recorded isometrically. The inhibitory effects of cumulative concentrations of AS1892802 and of fasudil hydrochloride in the presence and absence of ODQ (guanylate cyclase inhibitor), l-NAME (nitric oxide synthase inhibitor) and l-NNA (endothelial nitric oxide synthase inhibitor) on oxytocin-induced myometrial contractions were measured, and values for -log10EC50 (pD2) and mean maximal inhibition (Emax) were compared. RESULTS Both ROCK inhibitors, AS1892802 and fasudil hydrochloride starting from the concentrations of 10(-6)M reached statistical significance on contraction amplitude and frequency of myometrial strips (p<0.05). The inhibition of the amplitude and frequency of myometrial contractions was antagonized with ODQ (10(-5)M; only amplitude), l-NAME (3×10(-5)M) and l-NNA (10(-5)M) (p<0.05). CONCLUSION These results suggest that fasudil hydrochloride and AS1892802 may contribute to the development of new tocolytic drugs. We conclude that AS1892802 and fasudil hydrochloride perform this inhibitory effect partially through ROCK inhibition and the NO/cGMP pathway.
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Arrowsmith S, Wray S. Oxytocin: its mechanism of action and receptor signalling in the myometrium. J Neuroendocrinol 2014; 26:356-69. [PMID: 24888645 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a nonapeptide hormone that has a central role in the regulation of parturition and lactation. In this review, we address oxytocin receptor (OTR) signalling and its role in the myometrium during pregnancy and in labour. The OTR belongs to the rhodopsin-type (Class 1) of the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily and is regulated by changes in receptor expression, receptor desensitisation and local changes in oxytocin concentration. Receptor activation triggers a number of signalling events to stimulate contraction, primarily by elevating intracellular calcium (Ca(2+) ). This includes inositol-tris-phosphate-mediated store calcium release, store-operated Ca(2+) entry and voltage-operated Ca(2+) entry. We discuss each mechanism in turn and also discuss Ca(2+) -independent mechanisms such as Ca(2+) sensitisation. Because oxytocin induces contraction in the myometrium, both the activation and the inhibition of its receptor have long been targets in the management of dysfunctional and preterm labours, respectively. We discuss current and novel OTR agonists and antagonists and their use and potential benefit in obstetric practice. In this regard, we highlight three clinical scenarios: dysfunctional labour, postpartum haemorrhage and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Arrowsmith
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Heng YJ, Pennell CE, Chua HN, Perkins JE, Lye SJ. Whole blood gene expression profile associated with spontaneous preterm birth in women with threatened preterm labor. PLoS One 2014; 9:e96901. [PMID: 24828675 PMCID: PMC4020779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 04/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Threatened preterm labor (TPTL) is defined as persistent premature uterine contractions between 20 and 37 weeks of gestation and is the most common condition that requires hospitalization during pregnancy. Most of these TPTL women continue their pregnancies to term while only an estimated 5% will deliver a premature baby within ten days. The aim of this work was to study differential whole blood gene expression associated with spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) within 48 hours of hospital admission. Peripheral blood was collected at point of hospital admission from 154 women with TPTL before any medical treatment. Microarrays were utilized to investigate differential whole blood gene expression between TPTL women who did (n = 48) or did not have a sPTB (n = 106) within 48 hours of admission. Total leukocyte and neutrophil counts were significantly higher (35% and 41% respectively) in women who had sPTB than women who did not deliver within 48 hours (p<0.001). Fetal fibronectin (fFN) test was performed on 62 women. There was no difference in the urine, vaginal and placental microbiology and histopathology reports between the two groups of women. There were 469 significant differentially expressed genes (FDR<0.05); 28 differentially expressed genes were chosen for microarray validation using qRT-PCR and 20 out of 28 genes were successfully validated (p<0.05). An optimal random forest classifier model to predict sPTB was achieved using the top nine differentially expressed genes coupled with peripheral clinical blood data (sensitivity 70.8%, specificity 75.5%). These differentially expressed genes may further elucidate the underlying mechanisms of sPTB and pave the way for future systems biology studies to predict sPTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Jan Heng
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Craig Edward Pennell
- School of Women's and Infants' Health, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Hon Nian Chua
- Institute for Infocomm Research, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Stephen James Lye
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Hudson CA, Heesom KJ, López Bernal A. Phasic contractions of isolated human myometrium are associated with Rho-kinase (ROCK)-dependent phosphorylation of myosin phosphatase-targeting subunit (MYPT1). Mol Hum Reprod 2011; 18:265-79. [PMID: 22155728 PMCID: PMC3339637 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Force generation in smooth muscle is driven by phosphorylation of myosin light chains (MYL), which is regulated by the equilibrium between the activities of myosin light chain kinase (MYLK) and myosin phosphatase (MYLP). MYLK is activated by Ca2+-calmodulin whereas MYLP is inhibited by phosphorylation of its myosin-binding subunit (MYPT1) by Ca2+-independent mechanisms, leading to generation of increased MYL phosphorylation and force for a given intracellular Ca2+ concentration, a phenomenon known as ‘calcium-sensitization’. The regulation of MYPT1 phosphorylation in human myometrium, which shows increasing phasic contractility at the onset of labour, has yet to be fully investigated. Here, we explore phosphorylation of MYPT1 at Thr696 and Thr853, alongside phosphorylation of MYL, in fresh human myometrial tissue and cultured myometrial cells. We report that pMYPT1 (Thr853) levels are dependent on the activity of Rho-associated kinase (ROCK), determined using the ROCK inhibitor g-H-1152 and siRNA-mediated knockdown of ROCK1/2, and are highly correlated to ppMYL (Thr18/Ser19) levels. Pharmacological inhibition of ROCK was associated with a decrease in oxytocin (OXT)-stimulated contractility of myometrial strips in vitro. Moreover, we have measured pMYPT1 and pMYL levels between and during spontaneous and OXT-stimulated phasic contractions by rapidly freezing contracting muscle, and demonstrate for the first time functional coupling between increases in pMYPT1 (Thr853), ppMYL (Thr18/Ser19) and phasic contractility that is ROCK-dependent. The combined approach of measuring contractility and phosphorylation has demonstrated that the phosphorylation of MYPT1 (Thr853) changes dynamically with each contraction and has elucidated a defined role for ROCK in regulating myometrial contractility through MYLP, providing new insights into uterine physiology which will stimulate further research into treatments for preterm labour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire A Hudson
- Henry Wellcome Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology (Obstetrics and Gynaecology), School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK
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Lecarpentier ER, Claes VA, Timbely O, Arsalane A, Wipff JA, Hébert JLM, Michel FY, Lecarpentier YC. Mechanics and energetics of myosin molecular motors from nonpregnant human myometrium. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2011; 111:1096-105. [PMID: 21778420 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00414.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical properties of spontaneously contracting isolated nonpregnant human myometrium (NPHM) were investigated throughout the whole continuum of load from zero load up to isometry. This made it possible to assess the three-dimensional tension-velocity-length (T-V-L) relationship characterizing the level of contractility and to determine crossbridge (CB) kinetics of myosin molecular motors. Seventy-seven muscle strips were obtained from hysterectomy in 42 nonpregnant patients. Contraction and relaxation parameters were measured during spontaneous mechanical activity. The isotonic tension-peak velocity (T-V) relationship was hyperbolic in 30 cases and nonhyperbolic in 47 cases. When the T-V relationship was hyperbolic, the Huxley formalism could be used to calculate CB kinetics and CB unitary force. At the whole muscle level and for a given isotonic load level, part of the V-L phase plane showed a common pathway, so that a given instantaneous length corresponded to only one possible instantaneous velocity, independent of time and initial length. At the molecular level, rate constants for CB attachment and detachment were dramatically low, ∼100 times lower than those of striated muscles, and ∼5 to 10 times lower than those of other smooth muscles. The CB unitary force was ∼1.4 ± 0.1 pN. NPHM shared similar basic contractile properties with striated muscles, reflected in the three-dimensional T-V-L relationship characterizing the contractile level. Low CB attachment and detachment rate constants made it possible to generate normal CB unitary force and normal muscle tension in NPHM, even though it contracted extremely slowly compared with other muscles.
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Yurtsever AS, Pektas M, Ozkur M, Un I, Erenmemisoglu A, Buyukafsar K. Proton pump inhibitors omeprazole, lansoprazole and pantoprazole induce relaxation in the rat lower oesophageal sphincter. J Pharm Pharmacol 2011; 63:1295-300. [PMID: 21899545 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.2011.01333.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
We aimed to investigate effects of the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) omeprazole, lansoprazole and pantoprazole, which are currently used for the treatment of hyperacidity and gastro-oesophageal reflux, on the reactivity of the isolated rat lower oesophageal sphincter.
Methods
Omeprazole, lansoprazole and pantoprazole (all 10–9–10–3m, cumulatively) were tested on carbachol-induced (10–6m) contraction. In addition, the effects of PPI preincubation (all 10–3m) on the contractions induced by cumulative carbachol (10−9–10−5m), angiotensin-2 (10−9–10–5m) or electrical field stimulation (EFS; 40 V, 32 Hz, 1 ms, 10 s) were assessed. Finally, the effects of PPI on the spontaneous contractile activity of the tissue were also evaluated.
Key findings
PPI relaxed precontracted lower oesophageal sphincter in a concentration-dependent manner and suppressed carbachol-, angiotensin- and EFS-induced contractions. Furthermore, PPI attenuated spontaneous contractile activity of the tissue.
Conclusions
Omeprazole, lansoprazole and pantoprazole had a suppressor effect on lower oesophageal sphincter contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Sencer Yurtsever
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Mersin University Campus Yenişehir, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Mehtap Pektas
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Mersin University Campus Yenişehir, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Mehtap Ozkur
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Ismail Un
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Mersin University Campus Yenişehir, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Aydın Erenmemisoglu
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Kansu Buyukafsar
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Mersin University Campus Yenişehir, Mersin, Turkey
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Goupil E, Tassy D, Bourguet C, Quiniou C, Wisehart V, Pétrin D, Le Gouill C, Devost D, Zingg HH, Bouvier M, Saragovi HU, Chemtob S, Lubell WD, Claing A, Hébert TE, Laporte SA. A novel biased allosteric compound inhibitor of parturition selectively impedes the prostaglandin F2alpha-mediated Rho/ROCK signaling pathway. J Biol Chem 2010; 285:25624-36. [PMID: 20551320 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.115196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) receptor (FP) is a key regulator of parturition and a target for pharmacological management of preterm labor. However, an incomplete understanding of signaling pathways regulating myometrial contraction hinders the development of improved therapeutics. Here we used a peptidomimetic inhibitor of parturition in mice, PDC113.824, whose structure was based on the NH(2)-terminal region of the second extracellular loop of FP receptor, to gain mechanistic insight underlying FP receptor-mediated cell responses in the context of parturition. We show that PDC113.824 not only delayed normal parturition in mice but also that it inhibited both PGF2alpha- and lipopolysaccharide-induced preterm labor. PDC113.824 inhibited PGF2alpha-mediated, G(alpha)(12)-dependent activation of the Rho/ROCK signaling pathways, actin remodeling, and contraction of human myometrial cells likely by acting as a non-competitive, allosteric modulator of PGF2alpha binding. In contrast to its negative allosteric modulating effects on Rho/ROCK signaling, PDC113.824 acted as a positive allosteric modulator on PGF2alpha-mediated protein kinase C and ERK1/2 signaling. This bias in receptor-dependent signaling was explained by an increase in FP receptor coupling to G(alpha)(q), at the expense of coupling to G(alpha)(12). Our findings regarding the allosteric and biased nature of PDC113.824 offer new mechanistic insights into FP receptor signaling relevant to parturition and suggest novel therapeutic opportunities for the development of new tocolytic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugénie Goupil
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Center Research Institute, Montréal H3A 1A1, Canada
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Boyce-Rustay JM, Simler GH, McGaraughty S, Chu KL, Wensink EJ, Vasudevan A, Honore P. Characterization of Fasudil in preclinical models of pain. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2010; 11:941-9. [PMID: 20338818 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2009.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2009] [Revised: 12/09/2009] [Accepted: 12/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Activation of Rho kinase (ROCK) has been shown to play a role in neuronal regeneration and development of posttraumatic neuropathic pain. The ROCK inhibitor Fasudil, used clinically for the treatment of vasospasm, was used to investigate the analgesic profile of a ROCK inhibitor. Fasudil was evaluated in different preclinical models of neuropathic, osteoarthritic (OA), and inflammatory pain as well as capsaicin-induced acute pain and secondary mechanical hypersensitivity. In addition, Fasudil was tested in in vivo electrophysiology to determine the mechanism by which Fasudil produces analgesia. Fasudil at the highest dose tested (30 mg/kg) significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia in spinal-nerve ligation (SNL; 77%), chronic constriction injury (CCI; 53%), capsaicin-induced secondary mechanical hypersensitivity (63%), sodium iodoacetate-induced OA pain (88%), and capsaicin-induced acute flinching behaviors (56%). However, Fasudil (at 30 mg/kg) failed to attenuate or had only modest effects on inflammatory thermal hyperalgesia following carrageenan injection and mechanical allodynia following Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) injection. Fasudil produced ED(50) of 10.8 mg/kg in the SNL, and 5.7 mg/kg in the OA pain models. The ED(50) and 95% CI could not be obtained in the other models. Furthermore, administration of Fasudil (10 mg/kg, iv) significantly reduced both spontaneous and evoked firing of wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons in SNL, but not sham rats. Finally, Fasudil significantly decreased exploratory behaviors at 30 mg/kg. These results suggest that the acute administration of a ROCK inhibitor produces efficacy in both neuropathic and nociceptive pain states at doses devoid of locomotor side effects, with specific effects on WDR neurons. PERSPECTIVE In this article, the potential analgesic effects of Fasudil in a range of preclinical pain models were assessed. Fasudil was shown to have efficacy in neuropathic and nociceptive pain models. These findings may help identify new therapeutic treatments for pain in the clinic.
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