1
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Landis D, Sutter A, Khemka S, Songtanin B, Nichols J, Nugent K. Metformin as adjuvant treatment in hepatitis C virus infections and associated complications. Am J Med Sci 2024; 368:90-98. [PMID: 38701970 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2024.04.019] [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: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus is an important global cause of hepatitis and subsequently cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. These infections may also cause extrahepatic manifestations, including insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. These two complications can potentially reduce sustained virologic responses (SVR) in some drug regimens for this infection. Metformin has important biochemical effects that can limit viral replication in cellular cultures and can improve the response to antiviral drug therapy based on ribavirin and interferon. Clinical studies comparing treatment regimens with interferon, ribavirin, metformin with these regimens without metformin have demonstrated that metformin increases viral clearance, establishes higher rates of SVRs, and increases insulin sensitivity. Metformin also reduces the frequency of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients who have had SVRs. Larger treatment trials are needed to determine metformin's short-term and long-term treatment effects in patients with diabetes using newer antiviral drugs. In particular, if metformin reduces the frequency of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, this would significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Landis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Alex Sutter
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Sachi Khemka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Busara Songtanin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Jacob Nichols
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Kenneth Nugent
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States.
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2
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Velazquez-Cervantes MA, López-Ortega O, Cruz-Holguín VJ, Herrera Moro-Huitron L, Flores-Pliego A, Lara-Hernandez I, Comas-García M, Villavicencio-Carrisoza O, Helguera-Reppeto AC, Arévalo-Romero H, Vázquez-Martínez ER, León-Juárez M. Metformin Inhibits Zika Virus Infection in Trophoblast Cell Line. Curr Microbiol 2024; 81:133. [PMID: 38592489 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-024-03651-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) infections have been associated with severe clinical outcomes, which may include neurological manifestations, especially in newborns with intrauterine infection. However, licensed vaccines and specific antiviral agents are not yet available. Therefore, a safe and low-cost therapy is required, especially for pregnant women. In this regard, metformin, an FDA-approved drug used to treat gestational diabetes, has previously exhibited an anti-ZIKA effect in vitro in HUVEC cells by activating AMPK. In this study, we evaluated metformin treatment during ZIKV infection in vitro in a JEG3-permissive trophoblast cell line. Our results demonstrate that metformin affects viral replication and protein synthesis and reverses cytoskeletal changes promoted by ZIKV infection. In addition, it reduces lipid droplet formation, which is associated with lipogenic activation of infection. Taken together, our results indicate that metformin has potential as an antiviral agent against ZIKV infection in vitro in trophoblast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Adrían Velazquez-Cervantes
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antigenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquimica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, 11000, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Orestes López-Ortega
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Victor Javier Cruz-Holguín
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antigenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquimica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, 11000, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Luis Herrera Moro-Huitron
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antigenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquimica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, 11000, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Arturo Flores-Pliego
- Departamento de Inmunobioquimica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, 11000, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Lara-Hernandez
- Sección de Microscopía de Alta Resolución, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud y Biomedicina, Universidad Atunóma de San Luis Potrosí, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | - Mauricio Comas-García
- Sección de Microscopía de Alta Resolución, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud y Biomedicina, Universidad Atunóma de San Luis Potrosí, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | | | - Addy Cecilia Helguera-Reppeto
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Haruki Arévalo-Romero
- Laboratorio de Inmunología y Microbiología Molecular, División Académica Multidisciplinaria de Jalpa de Méndez, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Jalpa de Méndez, Mexico
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 11000, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Moises León-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antigenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquimica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, 11000, Mexico City, Mexico.
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3
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De Jesús-González LA, del Ángel RM, Palacios-Rápalo SN, Cordero-Rivera CD, Rodríguez-Carlos A, Trujillo-Paez JV, Farfan-Morales CN, Osuna-Ramos JF, Reyes-Ruiz JM, Rivas-Santiago B, León-Juárez M, García-Herrera AC, Ramos-Cortes AC, López-Gándara EA, Martínez-Rodríguez E. A Dual Pharmacological Strategy against COVID-19: The Therapeutic Potential of Metformin and Atorvastatin. Microorganisms 2024; 12:383. [PMID: 38399787 PMCID: PMC10893401 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Metformin (MET) and atorvastatin (ATO) are promising treatments for COVID-19. This review explores the potential of MET and ATO, commonly prescribed for diabetes and dyslipidemia, respectively, as versatile medicines against SARS-CoV-2. Due to their immunomodulatory and antiviral capabilities, as well as their cost-effectiveness and ubiquitous availability, they are highly suitable options for treating the virus. MET's effect extends beyond managing blood sugar, impacting pathways that can potentially decrease the severity and fatality rates linked with COVID-19. It can partially block mitochondrial complex I and stimulate AMPK, which indicates that it can be used more widely in managing viral infections. ATO, however, impacts cholesterol metabolism, a crucial element of the viral replicative cycle, and demonstrates anti-inflammatory characteristics that could modulate intense immune reactions in individuals with COVID-19. Retrospective investigations and clinical trials show decreased hospitalizations, severity, and mortality rates in patients receiving these medications. Nevertheless, the journey from observing something to applying it in a therapeutic setting is intricate, and the inherent diversity of the data necessitates carefully executed, forward-looking clinical trials. This review highlights the requirement for efficacious, easily obtainable, and secure COVID-19 therapeutics and identifies MET and ATO as promising treatments in this worldwide health emergency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Adrián De Jesús-González
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (S.N.P.-R.); (C.D.C.-R.)
| | - Rosa María del Ángel
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (S.N.P.-R.); (C.D.C.-R.)
| | - Selvin Noé Palacios-Rápalo
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (S.N.P.-R.); (C.D.C.-R.)
| | - Carlos Daniel Cordero-Rivera
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (S.N.P.-R.); (C.D.C.-R.)
| | - Adrián Rodríguez-Carlos
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
| | - Juan Valentin Trujillo-Paez
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
| | - Carlos Noe Farfan-Morales
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Unidad Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México 05348, Mexico;
| | | | - José Manuel Reyes-Ruiz
- División de Investigación en Salud, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades No. 14, Centro Médico Nacional “Adolfo Ruiz Cortines”, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Veracruz 91897, Mexico;
- Facultad de Medicina, Región Veracruz, Universidad Veracruzana (UV), Veracruz 91700, Mexico
| | - Bruno Rivas-Santiago
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
| | - Moisés León-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Virología Perinatal y Diseño Molecular de Antígenos y Biomarcadores, Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico;
| | - Ana Cristina García-Herrera
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
| | - Adriana Clara Ramos-Cortes
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
| | - Erika Alejandra López-Gándara
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
| | - Estefanía Martínez-Rodríguez
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica de Zacatecas, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Zacatecas 98000, Mexico; (A.R.-C.); (J.V.T.-P.); (B.R.-S.); (A.C.G.-H.); (A.C.R.-C.); (E.A.L.-G.); (E.M.-R.)
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4
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Petakh P, Kamyshna I, Kamyshnyi A. Unveiling the potential pleiotropic effects of metformin in treating COVID-19: a comprehensive review. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1260633. [PMID: 37881440 PMCID: PMC10595158 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1260633] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article explores the potential of metformin, a medication commonly used for type 2 diabetes, as an antiviral and anti-inflammatory agent in the context of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Metformin has demonstrated inhibitory effects on the growth of SARS-CoV-2 in cell culture models and has shown promising results in reducing viral load and achieving undetectable viral levels in clinical trials. Additionally, metformin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating immune cell function, which may help prevent cytokine storms associated with severe COVID-19. The drug's ability to regulate the balance between pro-inflammatory Th17 cells and anti-inflammatory Treg cells suggests its potential in mitigating inflammation and restoring T cell functionality. Furthermore, metformin's modulation of the gut microbiota, particularly changes in bacterial taxa and the production of short-chain fatty acids, may contribute to its therapeutic effects. The interplay between metformin, bile acids, the gut microbiome, glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion, and glycemic control has implications for the management of diabetes and potential interventions in COVID-19. By refreshing the current evidence, this review highlights the potential of metformin as a therapeutic option in the management of COVID-19, while also exploring its effects on the gut microbiome and immunometabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlo Petakh
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Uzhhorod National University, Uzhhorod, Ukraine
- Department of Microbiology, Virology, and Immunology, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Iryna Kamyshna
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Aleksandr Kamyshnyi
- Department of Microbiology, Virology, and Immunology, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
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5
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Malaekeh-Nikouei A, Shokri-Naei S, Karbasforoushan S, Bahari H, Baradaran Rahimi V, Heidari R, Askari VR. Metformin beyond an anti-diabetic agent: A comprehensive and mechanistic review on its effects against natural and chemical toxins. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115263. [PMID: 37541178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to the anti-diabetic effect of metformin, a growing number of studies have shown that metformin has some exciting properties, such as anti-oxidative capabilities, anticancer, genomic stability, anti-inflammation, and anti-fibrosis, which have potent, that can treat other disorders other than diabetes mellitus. We aimed to describe and review the protective and antidotal efficacy of metformin against biologicals, chemicals, natural, medications, pesticides, and radiation-induced toxicities. A comprehensive search has been performed from Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases from inception to March 8, 2023. All in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies were considered. Many studies suggest that metformin affects diseases other than diabetes. It is a radioprotective and chemoprotective drug that also affects viral and bacterial diseases. It can be used against inflammation-related and apoptosis-related abnormalities and against toxins to lower their effects. Besides lowering blood sugar, metformin can attenuate the effects of toxins on body weight, inflammation, apoptosis, necrosis, caspase-3 activation, cell viability and survival rate, reactive oxygen species (ROS), NF-κB, TNF-α, many interleukins, lipid profile, and many enzymes activity such as catalase and superoxide dismutase. It also can reduce the histopathological damages induced by many toxins on the kidneys, liver, and colon. However, clinical trials and human studies are needed before using metformin as a therapeutic agent against other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Malaekeh-Nikouei
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sina Shokri-Naei
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sobhan Karbasforoushan
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Bahari
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Vafa Baradaran Rahimi
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Reza Heidari
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Research Center for Cancer Screening and Epidemiology, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Reza Askari
- International UNESCO Center for Health-Related Basic Sciences and Human Nutrition, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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6
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Wang X, Wang H, Yi P, Baker C, Casey G, Xie X, Luo H, Cai J, Fan X, Soong L, Hu H, Shi PY, Liang Y, Sun J. Metformin restrains ZIKV replication and alleviates virus-induced inflammatory responses in microglia. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 121:110512. [PMID: 37343373 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
The re-emergence of Zika virus (ZIKV) remains a major public health threat that has raised worldwide attention. Accumulating evidence suggests that ZIKV can cause serious pathological changes to the human nervous system, including microcephaly in newborns. Recent studies suggest that metformin, an established treatment for diabetes may play a role in viral infection; however, little is known about the interactions between ZIKV infection and metformin administration. Using fluorescent ZIKV by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence imaging, we found that ZIKV can infect microglia in a dose-dependent manner. Metformin diminished ZIKV replication without the alteration of viral entry and phagocytosis. Our study demonstrated that metformin downregulated ZIKV-induced inflammatory response in microglia in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Our RNA-Seq and qRT-PCR analysis found that type I and III interferons (IFN), such as IFNα2, IFNβ1 and IFNλ3 were upregulated in ZIKV-infected cells by metformin treatment, accompanied with the downregulation of GBP4, OAS1, MX1 and ISG15. Together, our results suggest that metformin-mediated modulation in multiple pathways may attribute to restraining ZIKV infection in microglia, which may provide a potential tool to consider for use in unique clinical circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, Hunan 410005, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis of Hunan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Panpan Yi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis of Hunan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Coleman Baker
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Gonzales Casey
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Xuping Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Huanle Luo
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jiyang Cai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Xuegong Fan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis of Hunan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
| | - Lynn Soong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Haitao Hu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Pei-Yong Shi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Sealy Center for Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Institute for Translational Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Yuejin Liang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
| | - Jiaren Sun
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
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7
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Karim M, Lo CW, Einav S. Preparing for the next viral threat with broad-spectrum antivirals. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e170236. [PMID: 37259914 PMCID: PMC10232003 DOI: 10.1172/jci170236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a large global unmet need for the development of countermeasures to combat hundreds of viruses known to cause human disease and for the establishment of a therapeutic portfolio for future pandemic preparedness. Most approved antiviral therapeutics target proteins encoded by a single virus, providing a narrow spectrum of coverage. This, combined with the slow pace and high cost of drug development, limits the scalability of this direct-acting antiviral (DAA) approach. Here, we summarize progress and challenges in the development of broad-spectrum antivirals that target either viral elements (proteins, genome structures, and lipid envelopes) or cellular proviral factors co-opted by multiple viruses via newly discovered compounds or repurposing of approved drugs. These strategies offer new means for developing therapeutics against both existing and emerging viral threats that complement DAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwah Karim
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Chieh-Wen Lo
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
| | - Shirit Einav
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, and
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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8
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Sumińska M, Podgórski R, Bogusz-Górna K, Skowrońska B, Mazur A, Fichna M. Historical and cultural aspects of obesity: From a symbol of wealth and prosperity to the epidemic of the 21st century. Obes Rev 2022; 23:e13440. [PMID: 35238142 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
World Health Organization defines obesity as abnormal or excess adipose tissue accumulation. Nowadays, this condition is a serious threat to the public health in most countries around the world. Obesity adversely affects physical, mental, and in most cultures, social well-being. However, throughout the ages-from ancient times to the 21st century-this condition has been subject to various interpretations. As a matter of fact, obesity has not always been regarded as a disease. For many decades, excessive body weight has been considered rather a symbol of health. It was a marker of wealth and prosperity, as well as a sign of high social status. The centuries that passed on the development of science and medicine have gradually changed its face, but significant progress in understanding the causes and consequences of obesity has been made in the last 30 years. This paper presents the historical outline of obesity and its treatment from ancient times to the present-from its affirmation to the epidemic in the late 20th and 21st century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Sumińska
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes and Obesity, Institute of Pediatrics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Rafał Podgórski
- Centre for Innovative Research in Medical and Natural Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland.,Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Collegium of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Klaudia Bogusz-Górna
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes and Obesity, Institute of Pediatrics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Bogda Skowrońska
- Department of Pediatric Diabetes and Obesity, Institute of Pediatrics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Artur Mazur
- Department of Pediatrics, Childhood Endocrinology and Diabetes, Collegium of Medical Sciences, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, Poland
| | - Marta Fichna
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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9
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Wiernsperger N, Al-Salameh A, Cariou B, Lalau JD. Protection by metformin against severe Covid-19: an in-depth mechanistic analysis. DIABETES & METABOLISM 2022; 48:101359. [PMID: 35662580 PMCID: PMC9154087 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabet.2022.101359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Since the outbreak of Covid-19, several observational studies on diabetes and Covid-19 have reported a favourable association between metformin and Covid-19-related outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This is not surprising since metformin affects many of the pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in SARS-CoV-2 immune response, systemic spread and sequelae. A comparison of the multifactorial pathophysiological mechanisms of Covid-19 progression with metformin's well-known pleiotropic properties suggests that the treatment of patients with this drug might be particularly beneficial. Indeed, metformin could alleviate the cytokine storm, diminish virus entry into cells, protect against microvascular damage as well as prevent secondary fibrosis. Although our in-depth analysis covers many potential metformin mechanisms of action, we want to highlight more particularly its unique microcirculatory protective effects since worsening of Covid-19 disease clearly appears as largely due to severe defects in the structure and functioning of microvessels. Overall, these observations confirm that metformin is a unique, pleiotropic drug that targets many of Covid-19′s pathophysiology processes in a diabetes-independent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdallah Al-Salameh
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Nutrition, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France; PériTox/UMR-I 01, University of Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Bertrand Cariou
- Département d'Endocrinologie, Diabétologie et Nutrition, l'institut du thorax, Inserm, CNRS, UNIV Nantes, CHU Nantes, Hôpital Guillaume et René Laennec, 44093 Nantes Cedex 01, France
| | - Jean-Daniel Lalau
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Nutrition, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France; PériTox/UMR-I 01, University of Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France.
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10
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Teng X, Brown J, Morel L. Redox Homeostasis Involvement in the Pharmacological Effects of Metformin in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 36:462-479. [PMID: 34619975 PMCID: PMC8982129 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Metformin has been proposed as a treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The primary target of metformin, the electron transport chain complex I in the mitochondria, is associated with redox homeostasis in immune cells, which plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. This review addresses the evidence and knowledge gaps on whether a beneficial effect of metformin in lupus may be due to a restoration of a balanced redox state. Recent Advances: Clinical trials in SLE patients with mild-to-moderate disease activity and preclinical studies in mice have provided encouraging results for metformin. The mechanism by which this therapeutic effect was achieved is largely unknown. Metformin regulates redox homeostasis in a context-specific manner. Multiple cell types contribute to SLE, with evidence of increased mitochondrial oxidative stress in T cells and neutrophils. Critical Issues: The major knowledge gaps are whether the efficacy of metformin is linked to a restored redox homeostasis in the immune system, and if it does, in which cell types it occurs? We also need to know which patients may have a better response to metformin, and whether it corresponds to a specific mechanism? Finally, the identification of biomarkers to predict treatment outcomes would be of great value. Future Directions: Mechanistic studies must address the context-dependent pharmacological effects of metformin. Multiple cell types as well as a complex disease etiology should be considered. These studies must integrate the rapid advances made in understanding how metabolic programs direct the effector functions of immune cells. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 462-479.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Teng
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Josephine Brown
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Laurence Morel
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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11
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Farfan-Morales CN, Cordero-Rivera CD, Reyes-Ruiz JM, Hurtado-Monzón AM, Osuna-Ramos JF, González-González AM, De Jesús-González LA, Palacios-Rápalo SN, Del Ángel RM. Anti-flavivirus Properties of Lipid-Lowering Drugs. Front Physiol 2021; 12:749770. [PMID: 34690817 PMCID: PMC8529048 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.749770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although Flaviviruses such as dengue (DENV) and zika (ZIKV) virus are important human pathogens, an effective vaccine or antiviral treatment against them is not available. Hence, the search for new strategies to control flavivirus infections is essential. Several studies have shown that the host lipid metabolism could be an antiviral target because cholesterol and other lipids are required during the replicative cycle of different Flaviviridae family members. FDA-approved drugs with hypolipidemic effects could be an alternative for treating flavivirus infections. However, a better understanding of the regulation between host lipid metabolism and signaling pathways triggered during these infections is required. The metabolic pathways related to lipid metabolism modified during DENV and ZIKV infection are analyzed in this review. Additionally, the role of lipid-lowering drugs as safe host-targeted antivirals is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Noe Farfan-Morales
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Daniel Cordero-Rivera
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Manuel Reyes-Ruiz
- Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades No. 14, Centro Médico Nacional "Adolfo Ruiz Cortines," Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Heroica Veracruz, Mexico
| | - Arianna M Hurtado-Monzón
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Juan Fidel Osuna-Ramos
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Arely M González-González
- Laboratorio de Ingeniería Tisular y Medicina Traslacional, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Luis Adrián De Jesús-González
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Selvin Noé Palacios-Rápalo
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosa María Del Ángel
- Department of Infectomics and Molecular Pathogenesis, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
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12
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Cheang YZN, Ting HRD, Koh HQV, Alonso S. In vitro and in vivo efficacy of Metformin against dengue. Antiviral Res 2021; 195:105186. [PMID: 34655660 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2021.105186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Dengue is a prevalent mosquito-borne viral infection in the tropical and sub-tropical regions. Its potential to progress into severe, life-threatening disease, has pressed the research community to develop safe, effective and affordable antivirals. Metformin (MET), a first-line antidiabetic drug and indirect AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, has recently emerged as a potential anti-DENV therapeutic candidate, based on some experimental evidence supporting anti-DENV activity in vitro and widely reported anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we examined MET in vitro activity against the four DENV serotypes and in two different mammalian cell lines. MET displayed a poor anti-DENV activity in BHK-21 cells with IC50 in the mM range, which was associated with increased p-AMPKα levels, thereby supporting that MET antiviral activity is mediated through AMPK activation. In contrast, MET exerted a pro-DENV activity in Vero cells that did not correlate with increased AMPK activation, suggesting AMPK-independent effects. Treatment with compound 991, a direct AMPK activator, led to reduced viral titers against all four serotypes and across both mammalian cell lines. In vivo, oral administration of MET did not reduce viremia titers in an asymptomatic mouse model, neither did it improve disease severity and progression in a mouse model of severe dengue. Instead, high dose regimen worsened disease outcome as evidenced by increased mortality, higher viremia and hyper-inflammation. Therefore, while AMPK may represent a potential host target, MET does not seem to hold great promise as a pan-serotype anti-dengue drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Zhi Nicholas Cheang
- Infectious Diseases Translational Research Programme, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Immunology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Heng Rong Donald Ting
- Infectious Diseases Translational Research Programme, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Immunology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hui Qi Vanessa Koh
- Infectious Diseases Translational Research Programme, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Immunology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sylvie Alonso
- Infectious Diseases Translational Research Programme, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Immunology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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13
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Bhutta MS, Gallo ES, Borenstein R. Multifaceted Role of AMPK in Viral Infections. Cells 2021; 10:1118. [PMID: 34066434 PMCID: PMC8148118 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral pathogens often exploit host cell regulatory and signaling pathways to ensure an optimal environment for growth and survival. Several studies have suggested that 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an intracellular serine/threonine kinase, plays a significant role in the modulation of infection. Traditionally, AMPK is a key energy regulator of cell growth and proliferation, host autophagy, stress responses, metabolic reprogramming, mitochondrial homeostasis, fatty acid β-oxidation and host immune function. In this review, we highlight the modulation of host AMPK by various viruses under physiological conditions. These intracellular pathogens trigger metabolic changes altering AMPK signaling activity that then facilitates or inhibits viral replication. Considering the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the regulation of AMPK signaling following infection can shed light on the development of more effective therapeutic strategies against viral infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maimoona Shahid Bhutta
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
| | - Elisa S. Gallo
- Board-Certified Dermatologist and Independent Researcher, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
| | - Ronen Borenstein
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
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14
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The antiviral effect of metformin on zika and dengue virus infection. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8743. [PMID: 33888740 PMCID: PMC8062493 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87707-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Dengue (DENV) and zika (ZIKV) virus infections are currently a public health concern. At present, there is no treatment or a safe and effective vaccine for these viruses. Hence, the development of new strategies as host-directed therapy is required. In this sense, Metformin (MET), an FDA-approved drug used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has shown an anti-DENV effect in vitro by activating AMPK and reducing HMGCR activity. In this study, MET treatment was evaluated during in vitro and in vivo ZIKV infection and compared to MET treatment during DENV infection. Our results demonstrated that MET has a broad in vitro antiviral spectrum. MET inhibited ZIKV infection in different cell lines, but it was most effective in inhibiting DENV and yellow fever virus (YFV) infection in Huh-7 cells. However, the drug failed to protect against ZIKV infection when AG129 immunodeficient mice were used as in vivo model. Interestingly, MET increased DENV-infected male mice's survival time, reducing the severe signs of the disease. Together, these findings indicate that, although MET was an effective antiviral agent to inhibit in vitro and in vivo DENV infection, it could only inhibit in vitro ZIKV infection.
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15
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Xu L, Wang X, Chen Y, Soong L, Chen Y, Cai J, Liang Y, Sun J. Metformin Modulates T Cell Function and Alleviates Liver Injury Through Bioenergetic Regulation in Viral Hepatitis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:638575. [PMID: 33968030 PMCID: PMC8097169 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.638575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is not only the first-line medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but it is also effective as an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative and anti-tumor agent. However, the effect of metformin during viral hepatitis remains elusive. Using an adenovirus (Ad)-induced viral hepatitis mouse model, we found that metformin treatment significantly attenuated liver injury, with reduced serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels and liver histological changes, presumably via decreased effector T cell responses. We then demonstrated that metformin reduced mTORC1 activity in T cells from infected mice, as evidenced by decreased phosphorylation of ribosome protein S6 (p-S6). The inhibitory effects on the mTORC1 signaling by metformin was dependent on the tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (TSC1). Mechanistically, metformin treatment modulated the phosphorylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp-1) and mitochondrial fission 1 protein (FIS1), resulting in increased mass in effector T cells. Moreover, metformin treatment promoted mitochondrial superoxide production, which can inhibit excessive T cell activation in viral hepatitis. Together, our results revealed a protective role and therapeutic potential of metformin against liver injury in acute viral hepatitis via modulating effector T cell activation via regulating the mTORC1 pathway and mitochondrial functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanman Xu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Liver Diseases, Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo Institute of Innovation for Combined Medicine and Engineering, Ningbo, China.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis of Hunan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Lynn Soong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States.,Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States.,Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Yongping Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiyang Cai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Yuejin Liang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States.,Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Jiaren Sun
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States.,Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States.,Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
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16
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Böhm R, Bulin C, Waetzig V, Cascorbi I, Klein HJ, Herdegen T. Pharmacovigilance-based drug repurposing: The search for inverse signals via OpenVigil identifies putative drugs against viral respiratory infections. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 87:4421-4431. [PMID: 33871897 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruwen Böhm
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Germany
| | - Claudia Bulin
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Germany
| | - Vicki Waetzig
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Germany
| | - Ingolf Cascorbi
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Herdegen
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, Germany
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17
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González-García LD, Martínez-Castillo M, Vargas-Pavía TA, Ulloa-Aguilar JM, Arévalo-Romero H, Léon-Reyes G, Helguera-Repetto AC, García-Cordero J, León-Juárez M. Inhibition of AMP-activated protein kinase in respiratory syncytial virus infection activates lipid metabolism. Arch Virol 2021; 166:1177-1182. [PMID: 33580381 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-04974-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is most commonly associated with upper respiratory tract infections during childhood. The lipid composition of cells and lipogenic enzymes play an important role in RSV infection. There are controversial data about whether lipid biosynthesis regulators such as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) are deregulated by RSV. Hence, we examined whether the activation state of AMPK is altered in RSV-infected HEp-2 cells. Our data show that RSV infection inhibits AMPK activity, favoring the activation of downstream lipogenic effectors and cellular lipid anabolism in HEp-2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Didier González-García
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes", Montes Urales 800, Col. Lomas Virreyes, CP 11000, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Macario Martínez-Castillo
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón, Casco de Santo Tomas, 11340, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Tania Allin Vargas-Pavía
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes", Montes Urales 800, Col. Lomas Virreyes, CP 11000, Ciudad de México, México
| | - José Manuel Ulloa-Aguilar
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes", Montes Urales 800, Col. Lomas Virreyes, CP 11000, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Haruki Arévalo-Romero
- Laboratorio de Inmunología y Microbiología Molecular, División Académica multidisciplinaria de Jalpa de Méndez, Departamento de Genómica, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Jalpa de Méndez, México
| | - Guadalupe Léon-Reyes
- Laboratorio de Genómica del Metabolismo Óseo, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Addy Cecilia Helguera-Repetto
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes", Montes Urales 800, Col. Lomas Virreyes, CP 11000, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Julio García-Cordero
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del I.P.N., Ciudad de México, México
| | - Moisés León-Juárez
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología "Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes", Montes Urales 800, Col. Lomas Virreyes, CP 11000, Ciudad de México, México.
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18
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The Fatty Acid Lipid Metabolism Nexus in COVID-19. Viruses 2021; 13:v13010090. [PMID: 33440724 PMCID: PMC7826519 DOI: 10.3390/v13010090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric symptomology seen in early-stage severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-2003 and COVID-19 is evidence of virus replication occurring in the intestine, liver and pancreas. Aberrant lipid metabolism in morbidly obese individuals adversely affects the COVID-19 immune response and increases disease severity. Such observations are in line with the importance of lipid metabolism in COVID-19, and point to the gut as a site for intervention as well as a therapeutic target in treating the disease. Formation of complex lipid membranes and palmitoylation of coronavirus proteins are essential during viral replication and assembly. Inhibition of fatty acid synthase (FASN) and restoration of lipid catabolism by activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) impede replication of coronaviruses closely related to SARS-coronavirus-2 (CoV-2). In vitro findings and clinical data reveal that the FASN inhibitor, orlistat, and the AMPK activator, metformin, may inhibit coronavirus replication and reduce systemic inflammation to restore immune homeostasis. Such observations, along with the known mechanisms of action for these types of drugs, suggest that targeting fatty acid lipid metabolism could directly inhibit virus replication while positively impacting the patient's response to COVID-19.
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19
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Bagheri A, Moezzi SMI, Mosaddeghi P, Nadimi Parashkouhi S, Fazel Hoseini SM, Badakhshan F, Negahdaripour M. Interferon-inducer antivirals: Potential candidates to combat COVID-19. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 91:107245. [PMID: 33348292 PMCID: PMC7705326 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.107245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infective disease generated by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Given the pandemic urgency and lack of an effective cure for this disease, drug repurposing could open the way for finding a solution. Lots of investigations are ongoing to test the compounds already identified as antivirals. On the other hand, induction of type I interferons are found to play an important role in the generation of immune responses against SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, it was opined that the antivirals capable of triggering the interferons and their signaling pathway, could rationally be beneficial for treating COVID-19. On this basis, using a database of antivirals, called drugvirus, some antiviral agents were derived, followed by searches on their relevance to interferon induction. The examined list included drugs from different categories such as antibiotics, immunosuppressants, anti-cancers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), calcium channel blocker compounds, and some others. The results as briefed here, could help in finding potential drug candidates for COVID-19 treatment. However, their advantages and risks should be taken into account through precise studies, considering a systemic approach. Even though the adverse effects of some of these drugs may overweight their benefits, considering their mechanisms and structures may give a clue for designing novel drugs in the future. Furthermore, the antiviral effect and IFN-modifying mechanisms possessed by some of these drugs might lead to a synergistic effect against SARS-CoV-2, which deserve to be evaluated in further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashkan Bagheri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Iman Moezzi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Pouria Mosaddeghi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sadra Nadimi Parashkouhi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Mostafa Fazel Hoseini
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Badakhshan
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Manica Negahdaripour
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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20
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Mansouri K, Rastegari-Pouyani M, Ghanbri-Movahed M, Safarzadeh M, Kiani S, Ghanbari-Movahed Z. Can a metabolism-targeted therapeutic intervention successfully subjugate SARS-COV-2? A scientific rational. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 131:110694. [PMID: 32920511 PMCID: PMC7451059 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As a process entailing a high turnover of the host cell molecules, viral replication is required for a successful viral infection and requests virus capacity to acquire the macromolecules required for its propagation. To this end, viruses have adopted several strategies to harness cellular metabolism in accordance with their specific demands. Most viruses upregulate specific cellular anabolic pathways and are largely dependent on such alterations. RNA viruses, for example, upregulate both glycolysisand glycogenolysis providing TCA cycle intermediates essential for anabolic lipogenesis. Also, these infections usually induce the PPP, leading to increased nucleotide levels supporting viral replication. SARS-CoV-2 (the cause of COVID-19)that has so far spread from China throughout the world is also an RNA virus. Owing to the more metabolic plasticity of uninfected cells, a promising approach for specific antiviral therapy, which has drawn a lot of attention in the recent years, would be the targeting of metabolic changes induced by viruses. In the current review, we first summarize some of virus-induced metabolic adaptations and then based on these information as well as SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, propose a potential therapeutic modality for this calamitous world-spreading virus with the hope of employing this strategy for near-future clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Mansouri
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mohsen Rastegari-Pouyani
- Student Research Committee, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Ghanbri-Movahed
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mehrnoush Safarzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Kiani
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zahra Ghanbari-Movahed
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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21
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Vitiello A, Ferrara F. Antidiabetes Agents against Sars-Cov-2 Infection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 2:2718-2721. [PMID: 33134845 PMCID: PMC7585556 DOI: 10.1007/s42399-020-00608-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
People with chronic diseases represent a population at major risk of infection and complications from Sars-Cov-2 (COVID-19). Diabetes represents one of the most important comorbidities related to the severity of viral infection caused by the new Sars-Cov-2. Diabetes patients have a higher risk of serious complications caused by Sars-Cov-2 infection, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome, a hyperinflammatory state associated with multi-organ dysfunction. Given the importance of the link between COVID-19 and diabetes, it is essential to better manage glycemic normalization and infection in this category of patients to avoid serious complications. However, for some antidiabetes agents, there is evidence of efficacy against Sars-Cov-2 extra glycemic normalization. The objective of this article is to provide an overview of the potential therapeutic benefits to fight Sars-Cov-2 infection with antidiabetic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Vitiello
- Pharmaceutical Department, Usl Umbria 1, A.Migliorati street, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrara
- Pharmaceutical Department, Usl Umbria 1, A.Migliorati street, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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22
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Cheng X, Liu YM, Li H, Zhang X, Lei F, Qin JJ, Chen Z, Deng KQ, Lin L, Chen MM, Song X, Xia M, Huang X, Liu W, Cai J, Zhang XJ, Zhou F, Zhang P, Wang Y, Ma X, Xu Q, Yang J, Ye P, Mao W, Huang X, Xia J, Zhang BH, Guo J, Zhu L, Lu Z, Yuan Y, Wei X, She ZG, Ji YX, Li H. Metformin Is Associated with Higher Incidence of Acidosis, but Not Mortality, in Individuals with COVID-19 and Pre-existing Type 2 Diabetes. Cell Metab 2020; 32:537-547.e3. [PMID: 32861268 PMCID: PMC7439986 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2020.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The safety and efficacy of anti-diabetic drugs are critical for maximizing the beneficial impacts of well-controlled blood glucose on the prognosis of individuals with COVID-19 and pre-existing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Metformin is the most commonly prescribed first-line medication for T2D, but its impact on the outcomes of individuals with COVID-19 and T2D remains to be clarified. Our current retrospective study in a cohort of 1,213 hospitalized individuals with COVID-19 and pre-existing T2D indicated that metformin use was significantly associated with a higher incidence of acidosis, particularly in cases with severe COVID-19, but not with 28-day COVID-19-related mortality. Furthermore, metformin use was significantly associated with reduced heart failure and inflammation. Our findings provide clinical evidence in support of continuing metformin treatment in individuals with COVID-19 and pre-existing T2D, but acidosis and kidney function should be carefully monitored in individuals with severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ye-Mao Liu
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haomiao Li
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Fang Lei
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Juan-Juan Qin
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ze Chen
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ke-Qiong Deng
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lijin Lin
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming-Ming Chen
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohui Song
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Meng Xia
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuewei Huang
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Weifang Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingjing Cai
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Zhang
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Zhou
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yibin Wang
- Departments of Anesthesiology, Physiology, and Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xinliang Ma
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19004, USA
| | - Qingbo Xu
- Centre for Clinic Pharmacology, The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Juan Yang
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ping Ye
- Department of Cardiology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weiming Mao
- Department of General Surgery, Huanggang Central Hospital, Huanggang, China
| | - Xiaodong Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Wuhan Third Hospital and Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahong Xia
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bing-Hong Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiao Guo
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine & Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China & Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangdong TCM Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lihua Zhu
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhibing Lu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufeng Yuan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Xiang Wei
- Division of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Zhi-Gang She
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Yan-Xiao Ji
- Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Hongliang Li
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongnan Hospital, School of Basic Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Institute of Model Animal, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Medical Science Research Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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23
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Cadegiani FA. Repurposing existing drugs for COVID-19: an endocrinology perspective. BMC Endocr Disord 2020; 20:149. [PMID: 32993622 PMCID: PMC7523486 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-020-00626-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a multi-systemic infection caused by the novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), that has become a pandemic. Although its prevailing symptoms include anosmia, ageusia, dry couch, fever, shortness of brief, arthralgia, myalgia, and fatigue, regional and methodological assessments vary, leading to heterogeneous clinical descriptions of COVID-19. Aging, uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and exposure to androgens have been correlated with worse prognosis in COVID-19. Abnormalities in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) and the androgen-driven transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) have been elicited as key modulators of SARS-CoV-2. MAIN TEXT While safe and effective therapies for COVID-19 lack, the current moment of pandemic urges for therapeutic options. Existing drugs should be preferred over novel ones for clinical testing due to four inherent characteristics: 1. Well-established long-term safety profile, known risks and contraindications; 2. More accurate predictions of clinical effects; 3. Familiarity of clinical management; and 4. Affordable costs for public health systems. In the context of the key modulators of SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, endocrine targets have become central as candidates for COVID-19. The only endocrine or endocrine-related drug class with already existing emerging evidence for COVID-19 is the glucocorticoids, particularly for the use of dexamethasone for severely affected patients. Other drugs that are more likely to present clinical effects despite the lack of specific evidence for COVID-19 include anti-androgens (spironolactone, eplerenone, finasteride and dutasteride), statins, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), ACE inhibitors (ACEi), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), and direct TMPRSS-2 inhibitors (nafamostat and camostat). Several other candidates show less consistent plausibility. In common, except for dexamethasone, all candidates have no evidence for COVID-19, and clinical trials are needed. CONCLUSION While dexamethasone may reduce mortality in severely ill patients with COVID-19, in the absence of evidence of any specific drug for mild-to-moderate COVID-19, researchers should consider testing existing drugs due to their favorable safety, familiarity, and cost profile. However, except for dexamethasone in severe COVID-19, drug treatments for COVID-19 patients must be restricted to clinical research studies until efficacy has been extensively proven, with favorable outcomes in terms of reduction in hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio A Cadegiani
- Adrenal and Hypertension Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM/UNIFESP), Rua Pedro de Toledo 781 - 13th floor, São Paulo, SP, 04039-032, Brazil.
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24
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Penlioglou T, Papachristou S, Papanas N. COVID-19 and Diabetes Mellitus: May Old Anti-diabetic Agents Become the New Philosopher's Stone? Diabetes Ther 2020; 11:1195-1197. [PMID: 32382358 PMCID: PMC7204191 DOI: 10.1007/s13300-020-00830-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Corona virus infectious disease (COVID-19) is a new pandemic. In subjects with diabetes mellitus, infection may be more frequent and severe. We discuss the potential contribution of two traditional oral antidiabetic agents, metformin and pioglitazone, to the improvement of liver injury in COVID-19. Clearly, further experience is needed to shed light on these hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theano Penlioglou
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Diabetes Centre, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Stella Papachristou
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Diabetes Centre, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Papanas
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Diabetes Centre, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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25
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Ferrara F, Vitiello A. The impact of COVID-19 in diabetic patient. ARCHIVES OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/amhs.amhs_117_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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26
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Qu C, Zhang S, Li Y, Wang Y, Peppelenbosch MP, Pan Q. Mitochondria in the biology, pathogenesis, and treatment of hepatitis virus infections. Rev Med Virol 2019; 29:e2075. [PMID: 31322806 PMCID: PMC6771966 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis virus infections affect a large proportion of the global population. The host responds rapidly to viral infection by orchestrating a variety of cellular machineries, in particular, the mitochondrial compartment. Mitochondria actively regulate viral infections through modulation of the cellular innate immunity and reprogramming of metabolism. In turn, hepatitis viruses are able to modulate the morphodynamics and functions of mitochondria, but the mode of actions are distinct with respect to different types of hepatitis viruses. The resulting mutual interactions between viruses and mitochondria partially explain the clinical presentation of viral hepatitis, influence the response to antiviral treatment, and offer rational avenues for novel therapy. In this review, we aim to consider in depth the multifaceted interactions of mitochondria with hepatitis virus infections and emphasize the implications for understanding pathogenesis and advancing therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changbo Qu
- TEDA Institute of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.,The Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, China.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Shaoshi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yijin Wang
- Department of Pathology and Hepatology, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Maikel P Peppelenbosch
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Qiuwei Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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27
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Titov AA, Baker HV, Brusko TM, Sobel ES, Morel L. Metformin Inhibits the Type 1 IFN Response in Human CD4 + T Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 203:338-348. [PMID: 31160534 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1801651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In systemic lupus erythematosus, defective clearance of apoptotic debris and activation of innate cells result in a chronically activated type 1 IFN response, which can be measured in PBMCs of most patients. Metformin, a widely used prescription drug for Type 2 diabetes, has a therapeutic effect in several mouse models of lupus through mechanisms involving inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation and a decrease in CD4+ T cell activation. In this study, we report that in CD4+ T cells from human healthy controls and human systemic lupus erythematosus patients, metformin inhibits the transcription of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) after IFN-α treatment. Accordingly, metformin inhibited the phosphorylation of pSTAT1 (Y701) and its binding to IFN-stimulated response elements that control ISG expression. These effects were independent of AMPK activation or mTORC1 inhibition but were replicated using inhibitors of the electron transport chain respiratory complexes I, III, and IV. This indicates that mitochondrial respiration is required for ISG expression in CD4+ T cells and provides a novel mechanism by which metformin may exert a therapeutic effect in autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton A Titov
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Henry V Baker
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610; and
| | - Todd M Brusko
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Eric S Sobel
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610
| | - Laurence Morel
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610;
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28
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Hepatoprotective activity of metformin: A new mission for an old drug? Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 850:1-7. [PMID: 30753869 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Metformin, as a dimethyl biguanide prescribed as the first-line medication for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, is one of the most frequently used drugs, worldwide. However, the beneficial effects of metformin are not limited to insulin sensitizing and blood glucose lowering effects as recent clinical trials deciphered lower cancer risk in metformin users. In addition, metformin protected the liver against chemical or viral hepatotoxicants through various mechanisms including activation of AMPK via inhibition of mitochondrial complex I, inhibition of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and inhibition of Smads phosphorylation. Clinical trials are under way to assess possible additive effects of metformin when co-administered along with the standard regimen for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. This review outlines the molecular mechanisms behind protective activity of metformin against different liver diseases.
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29
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Silwal P, Kim JK, Yuk JM, Jo EK. AMP-Activated Protein Kinase and Host Defense against Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19113495. [PMID: 30404221 PMCID: PMC6274990 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19113495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays diverse roles in various physiological and pathological conditions. AMPK is involved in energy metabolism, which is perturbed by infectious stimuli. Indeed, various pathogens modulate AMPK activity, which affects host defenses against infection. In some viral infections, including hepatitis B and C viral infections, AMPK activation is beneficial, but in others such as dengue virus, Ebola virus, and human cytomegaloviral infections, AMPK plays a detrimental role. AMPK-targeting agents or small molecules enhance the antiviral response and contribute to the control of microbial and parasitic infections. In addition, this review focuses on the double-edged role of AMPK in innate and adaptive immune responses to infection. Understanding how AMPK regulates host defenses will enable development of more effective host-directed therapeutic strategies against infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashanta Silwal
- Department of Microbiology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
- Infection Control Convergence Research Center, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
| | - Jin Kyung Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
- Infection Control Convergence Research Center, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
- Department of Medical Science, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
| | - Jae-Min Yuk
- Department of Infection Biology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
| | - Eun-Kyeong Jo
- Department of Microbiology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
- Infection Control Convergence Research Center, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
- Department of Medical Science, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon 35015, Korea.
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