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Islam SR, Maity S, Chakrabarti O, Manna SK. Protocol for analyzing energy metabolic pathway dependency in human liver cancer cell lines. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:102964. [PMID: 38507415 PMCID: PMC10960080 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.102964] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular energy metabolism analysis is complex, expensive, and indirect. We present a protocol to analyze relative contribution of metabolic pathways to ATP production by directly measuring ATP levels. We describe steps for cell counting and seeding in 96-well plate, treating with metformin, and systematic inhibition with metabolic inhibitors. We then detail procedures for a viability and ATP assay and calculating energy metabolism dependency. This high-throughput and accessible protocol works with any cell line and allows for flexible perturbation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sk Ramiz Islam
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700 064, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400 094, India.
| | - Sebabrata Maity
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700 064, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400 094, India.
| | - Oishee Chakrabarti
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700 064, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400 094, India
| | - Soumen Kanti Manna
- Biophysics & Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, 1/AF Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700 064, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400 094, India
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2
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Fermaintt CS, Wacker SA. Malate dehydrogenase as a multi-purpose target for drug discovery. Essays Biochem 2024:EBC20230081. [PMID: 38818725 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20230081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Malate dehydrogenase (MDH) enzymes play critical roles in cellular metabolism, facilitating the reversible conversion of malate to oxaloacetate using NAD+/NADH as a cofactor. The two human isoforms of MDH have roles in the citric acid cycle and the malate-aspartate shuttle, and thus both are key enzymes in aerobic respiration as well as regenerating the pool of NAD+ used in glycolysis. This review highlights the potential of MDH as a therapeutic drug target in various diseases, including metabolic and neurological disorders, cancer, and infectious diseases. The most promising molecules for targeting MDH have been examined in the context of human malignancies, where MDH is frequently overexpressed. Recent studies have led to the identification of several antagonists, some of which are broad MDH inhibitors while others have selectivity for either of the two human MDH isoforms. Other promising compounds have been studied in the context of parasitic MDH, as inhibiting the function of the enzyme could selectively kill the parasite. Research is ongoing with these chemical scaffolds to develop more effective small-molecule drug leads that would have great potential for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles S Fermaintt
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, TX, U.S.A
| | - Sarah A Wacker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Manhattan College, The Bronx, NY, U.S.A
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3
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Isop LM, Neculau AE, Necula RD, Kakucs C, Moga MA, Dima L. Metformin: The Winding Path from Understanding Its Molecular Mechanisms to Proving Therapeutic Benefits in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1714. [PMID: 38139841 PMCID: PMC10748332 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121714] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, has garnered increasing attention for its potential neuroprotective properties due to the growing demand for treatments for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron diseases. This review synthesizes experimental and clinical studies on metformin's mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative disorders. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library, focused on key phrases such as "metformin", "neuroprotection", and "neurodegenerative diseases", with data up to September 2023. Recent research on metformin's glucoregulatory mechanisms reveals new molecular targets, including the activation of the LKB1-AMPK signaling pathway, which is crucial for chronic administration of metformin. The pleiotropic impact may involve other stress kinases that are acutely activated. The precise role of respiratory chain complexes (I and IV), of the mitochondrial targets, or of the lysosomes in metformin effects remains to be established by further research. Research on extrahepatic targets like the gut and microbiota, as well as its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, is crucial for understanding neurodegenerative disorders. Experimental data on animal models shows promising results, but clinical studies are inconclusive. Understanding the molecular targets and mechanisms of its effects could help design clinical trials to explore and, hopefully, prove its therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Mihaela Isop
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Andrea Elena Neculau
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
| | - Radu Dan Necula
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Cristian Kakucs
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania
| | - Lorena Dima
- Department of Fundamental, Prophylactic and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brașov, Romania; (L.M.I.)
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4
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Chang W, Li W, Li P. The anti-diabetic effects of metformin are mediated by regulating long non-coding RNA. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1256705. [PMID: 38053839 PMCID: PMC10694297 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1256705] [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: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disease with complex etiology and mechanisms. Long non-coding ribonucleic acid (LncRNA) is a novel class of functional long RNA molecules that regulate multiple biological functions through various mechanisms. Studies in the past decade have shown that lncRNAs may play an important role in regulating insulin resistance and the progression of T2D. As a widely used biguanide drug, metformin has been used for glucose lowering effects in clinical practice for more than 60 years. For diabetic therapy, metformin reduces glucose absorption from the intestines, lowers hepatic gluconeogenesis, reduces inflammation, and improves insulin sensitivity. However, despite being widely used as the first-line oral antidiabetic drug, its mechanism of action remains largely elusive. Currently, an increasing number of studies have demonstrated that the anti-diabetic effects of metformin were mediated by the regulation of lncRNAs. Metformin-regulated lncRNAs have been shown to participate in the inhibition of gluconeogenesis, regulation of lipid metabolism, and be anti-inflammatory. Thus, this review focuses on the mechanisms of action of metformin in regulating lncRNAs in diabetes, including pathways altered by metformin via targeting lncRNAs, and the potential targets of metformin through modulation of lncRNAs. Knowledge of the mechanisms of lncRNA modulation by metformin in diabetes will aid the development of new therapeutic drugs for T2D in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenguang Chang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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5
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Barroso E, Montori-Grau M, Wahli W, Palomer X, Vázquez-Carrera M. Striking a gut-liver balance for the antidiabetic effects of metformin. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:457-473. [PMID: 37188578 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.04.004] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Metformin is the most prescribed drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but its mechanism of action has not yet been completely elucidated. Classically, the liver has been considered the major site of action of metformin. However, over the past few years, advances have unveiled the gut as an additional important target of metformin, which contributes to its glucose-lowering effect through new mechanisms of action. A better understanding of the mechanistic details of metformin action in the gut and the liver and its relevance in patients remains the challenge of present and future research and may impact drug development for the treatment of T2DM. Here, we offer a critical analysis of the current status of metformin-driven multiorgan glucose-lowering effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Barroso
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute-Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, E-08950 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avinguda Joan XXII 27-31, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Montori-Grau
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute-Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, E-08950 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avinguda Joan XXII 27-31, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Walter Wahli
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, 308232, Singapore; ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), INRAE, UMR1331, 31300 Toulouse Cedex, France
| | - Xavier Palomer
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute-Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, E-08950 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avinguda Joan XXII 27-31, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Vázquez-Carrera
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain; Pediatric Research Institute-Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, E-08950 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Avinguda Joan XXII 27-31, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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6
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Foretz M, Guigas B, Viollet B. Metformin: update on mechanisms of action and repurposing potential. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023:10.1038/s41574-023-00833-4. [PMID: 37130947 PMCID: PMC10153049 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00833-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 82.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Currently, metformin is the first-line medication to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in most guidelines and is used daily by >200 million patients. Surprisingly, the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic action are complex and are still not fully understood. Early evidence highlighted the liver as the major organ involved in the effect of metformin on reducing blood levels of glucose. However, increasing evidence points towards other sites of action that might also have an important role, including the gastrointestinal tract, the gut microbial communities and the tissue-resident immune cells. At the molecular level, it seems that the mechanisms of action vary depending on the dose of metformin used and duration of treatment. Initial studies have shown that metformin targets hepatic mitochondria; however, the identification of a novel target at low concentrations of metformin at the lysosome surface might reveal a new mechanism of action. Based on the efficacy and safety records in T2DM, attention has been given to the repurposing of metformin as part of adjunct therapy for the treatment of cancer, age-related diseases, inflammatory diseases and COVID-19. In this Review, we highlight the latest advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of action of metformin and discuss potential emerging novel therapeutic uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Foretz
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Guigas
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Benoit Viollet
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.
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7
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Nagahisa T, Kosugi S, Yamaguchi S. Interactions between Intestinal Homeostasis and NAD + Biology in Regulating Incretin Production and Postprandial Glucose Metabolism. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15061494. [PMID: 36986224 PMCID: PMC10052115 DOI: 10.3390/nu15061494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The intestine has garnered attention as a target organ for developing new therapies for impaired glucose tolerance. The intestine, which produces incretin hormones, is the central regulator of glucose metabolism. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) production, which determines postprandial glucose levels, is regulated by intestinal homeostasis. Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT)-mediated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) biosynthesis in major metabolic organs such as the liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle plays a crucial role in obesity- and aging-associated organ derangements. Furthermore, NAMPT-mediated NAD+ biosynthesis in the intestines and its upstream and downstream mediators, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and NAD+-dependent deacetylase sirtuins (SIRTs), respectively, are critical for intestinal homeostasis, including gut microbiota composition and bile acid metabolism, and GLP-1 production. Thus, boosting the intestinal AMPK-NAMPT-NAD+-SIRT pathway to improve intestinal homeostasis, GLP-1 production, and postprandial glucose metabolism has gained significant attention as a novel strategy to improve impaired glucose tolerance. Herein, we aimed to review in detail the regulatory mechanisms and importance of intestinal NAMPT-mediated NAD+ biosynthesis in regulating intestinal homeostasis and GLP-1 secretion in obesity and aging. Furthermore, dietary and molecular factors regulating intestinal NAMPT-mediated NAD+ biosynthesis were critically explored to facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies for postprandial glucose dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taichi Nagahisa
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shotaro Kosugi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shintaro Yamaguchi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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8
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Nait Irahal I, Darif D, Guenaou I, Hmimid F, Azzahra Lahlou F, Ez-Zahra Ousaid F, Abdou-Allah F, Aitsi L, Akarid K, Bourhim N. Therapeutic Potential of Clove Essential Oil in Diabetes: Modulation of Pro-Inflammatory Mediators, Oxidative Stress and Metabolic Enzyme Activities. Chem Biodivers 2023; 20:e202201169. [PMID: 36823346 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202201169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by insulin deficiency due to the destruction of pancreatic β cells, leading to hyperglycemia, which in turn induces vascular complications. In the current study, we investigated the effect of intraperitoneal administration of clove essential oil (CEO: 20 mg/kg body weight) on certain oxidative stress and glucose metabolism enzymes, as well as the expression of proinflammatory mediators. Administration of CEO to diabetic rats showed a significant decline in blood glucose levels, total cholesterol, and xanthine oxidase, compared to the streptozotocin group. Furthermore, these treated rats elicited a notable attenuation in the levels of lipid peroxides, and thiols groups in both liver and brain tissues. The activities of antioxidant and metabolic enzymes were reverted to normality in diabetic upon CEO administration. In addition to its protective effects on red blood cell hemolysis, CEO is a potent α-amylase inhibitor with an IC50 =298.0±2.75 μg/mL. Also, treatment of diabetic rats with CEO significantly reduced the iNOS expression in the spleen. Our data showed that CEO has potential beneficial effects on diabetes, which can possibly prevent the pathogenesis of diabetic micro- and macrovascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imane Nait Irahal
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
| | - Dounia Darif
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
| | - Ismail Guenaou
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
| | - Fouzia Hmimid
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
- Phycology, Blue Biodiversity and Biotechnology RU, Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology, Ecology and Ecosystem Valorization-CNRST Labeled Research Unit N°10, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaïb Doukkali University, 24000, El Jadida, Morocco
| | - Fatima Azzahra Lahlou
- National Reference Laboratory, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), 82403, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Fatima Ez-Zahra Ousaid
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
| | - Fatima Abdou-Allah
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
| | - Lamiaa Aitsi
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
| | - Khadija Akarid
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
| | - Noureddine Bourhim
- Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Health and Environment Laboratory, Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C), Casablanca, 20000, Morocco
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9
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Bridges HR, Blaza JN, Yin Z, Chung I, Pollak MN, Hirst J. Structural basis of mammalian respiratory complex I inhibition by medicinal biguanides. Science 2023; 379:351-357. [PMID: 36701435 PMCID: PMC7614227 DOI: 10.1126/science.ade3332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The molecular mode of action of biguanides, including the drug metformin, which is widely used in the treatment of diabetes, is incompletely characterized. Here, we define the inhibitory drug-target interaction(s) of a model biguanide with mammalian respiratory complex I by combining cryo-electron microscopy and enzyme kinetics. We interpret these data to explain the selectivity of biguanide binding to different enzyme states. The primary inhibitory site is in an amphipathic region of the quinone-binding channel, and an additional binding site is in a pocket on the intermembrane-space side of the enzyme. An independent local chaotropic interaction, not previously described for any drug, displaces a portion of a key helix in the membrane domain. Our data provide a structural basis for biguanide action and enable the rational design of medicinal biguanides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah R. Bridges
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, The Keith Peters Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK,Authors for correspondence: and
| | - James N. Blaza
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, The Keith Peters Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK,Structural Biology Laboratory and York Biomedical Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, The University of York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Zhan Yin
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, The Keith Peters Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Injae Chung
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, The Keith Peters Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Michael N. Pollak
- Lady Davis Institute of the Jewish General Hospital and Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Judy Hirst
- MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit, University of Cambridge, The Keith Peters Building, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK,Authors for correspondence: and
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10
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Effect of metformin on intact mitochondria from liver and brain: Concept revisited. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 931:175177. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Triggle CR, Mohammed I, Bshesh K, Marei I, Ye K, Ding H, MacDonald R, Hollenberg MD, Hill MA. Metformin: Is it a drug for all reasons and diseases? Metabolism 2022; 133:155223. [PMID: 35640743 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2022.155223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Metformin was first used to treat type 2 diabetes in the late 1950s and in 2022 remains the first-choice drug used daily by approximately 150 million people. An accumulation of positive pre-clinical and clinical data has stimulated interest in re-purposing metformin to treat a variety of diseases including COVID-19. In polycystic ovary syndrome metformin improves insulin sensitivity. In type 1 diabetes metformin may help reduce the insulin dose. Meta-analysis and data from pre-clinical and clinical studies link metformin to a reduction in the incidence of cancer. Clinical trials, including MILES (Metformin In Longevity Study), and TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin), have been designed to determine if metformin can offset aging and extend lifespan. Pre-clinical and clinical data suggest that metformin, via suppression of pro-inflammatory pathways, protection of mitochondria and vascular function, and direct actions on neuronal stem cells, may protect against neurodegenerative diseases. Metformin has also been studied for its anti-bacterial, -viral, -malaria efficacy. Collectively, these data raise the question: Is metformin a drug for all diseases? It remains unclear as to whether all of these putative beneficial effects are secondary to its actions as an anti-hyperglycemic and insulin-sensitizing drug, or result from other cellular actions, including inhibition of mTOR (mammalian target for rapamycin), or direct anti-viral actions. Clarification is also sought as to whether data from ex vivo studies based on the use of high concentrations of metformin can be translated into clinical benefits, or whether they reflect a 'Paracelsus' effect. The environmental impact of metformin, a drug with no known metabolites, is another emerging issue that has been linked to endocrine disruption in fish, and extensive use in T2D has also raised concerns over effects on human reproduction. The objectives for this review are to: 1) evaluate the putative mechanism(s) of action of metformin; 2) analyze the controversial evidence for metformin's effectiveness in the treatment of diseases other than type 2 diabetes; 3) assess the reproducibility of the data, and finally 4) reach an informed conclusion as to whether metformin is a drug for all diseases and reasons. We conclude that the primary clinical benefits of metformin result from its insulin-sensitizing and antihyperglycaemic effects that secondarily contribute to a reduced risk of a number of diseases and thereby enhancing healthspan. However, benefits like improving vascular endothelial function that are independent of effects on glucose homeostasis add to metformin's therapeutic actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris R Triggle
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Ibrahim Mohammed
- Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khalifa Bshesh
- Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Isra Marei
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Kevin Ye
- Department of Biomedical Physiology & Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Hong Ding
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Medical Education, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ross MacDonald
- Distribution eLibrary, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, P.O. Box 24144, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Morley D Hollenberg
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, a Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Michael A Hill
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Medical Pharmacology & Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211, MO, USA
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12
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Di Magno L, Di Pastena F, Bordone R, Coni S, Canettieri G. The Mechanism of Action of Biguanides: New Answers to a Complex Question. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133220. [PMID: 35804992 PMCID: PMC9265089 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Biguanides are a family of antidiabetic drugs with documented anticancer properties in preclinical and clinical settings. Despite intensive investigation, how they exert their therapeutic effects is still debated. Many studies support the hypothesis that biguanides inhibit mitochondrial complex I, inducing energy stress and activating compensatory responses mediated by energy sensors. However, a major concern related to this “complex” model is that the therapeutic concentrations of biguanides found in the blood and tissues are much lower than the doses required to inhibit complex I, suggesting the involvement of additional mechanisms. This comprehensive review illustrates the current knowledge of pharmacokinetics, receptors, sensors, intracellular alterations, and the mechanism of action of biguanides in diabetes and cancer. The conditions of usage and variables affecting the response to these drugs, the effect on the immune system and microbiota, as well as the results from the most relevant clinical trials in cancer are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Di Magno
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Fiorella Di Pastena
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Rosa Bordone
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Sonia Coni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
| | - Gianluca Canettieri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy; (L.D.M.); (F.D.P.); (R.B.); (S.C.)
- Istituto Pasteur—Fondazione Cenci—Bolognetti, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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13
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Theurey P, Vial G, Fontaine E, Monternier PA, Fouqueray P, Bolze S, Moller DE, Hallakou-Bozec S. Reduced lactic acidosis risk with Imeglimin: Comparison with Metformin. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15151. [PMID: 35274817 PMCID: PMC8915386 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The global prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is expected to exceed 642 million people by 2040. Metformin is a widely used biguanide T2D therapy, associated with rare but serious events of lactic acidosis, in particular with predisposing conditions (e.g., renal failure or major surgery). Imeglimin, a recently approved drug, is the first in a new class (novel mode of action) of T2D medicines. Although not a biguanide, Imeglimin shares a chemical moiety with Metformin and also modulates mitochondrial complex I activity, a potential mechanism for Metformin‐mediated lactate accumulation. We interrogated the potential for Imeglimin to induce lacticacidosis in relevant animal models and further assessed differences in key mechanisms known for Metformin's effects. In a dog model of major surgery, Metformin or Imeglimin (30–1000 mg/kg) was acutely administered, only Metformin‐induced lactate accumulation and pH decrease leading to lactic acidosis with fatality at the highest dose. Rats with gentamycin‐induced renal insufficiency received Metformin or Imeglimin (50–100 mg/kg/h), only Metformin increased lactatemia and H+ concentrations with mortality at higher doses. Plasma levels of Metformin and Imeglimin were similar in both models. Mice were chronically treated with Metformin or Imeglimin 200 mg/kg bid. Only Metformin produced hyperlactatemia after acute intraperitoneal glucose loading. Ex vivo measurements revealed higher mitochondrial complex I inhibition with Metformin versus slight effects with Imeglimin. Another mechanism implicated in Metformin's effects on lactate production was assessed: in isolated rat, liver mitochondria exposed to Imeglimin or Metformin, only Metformin (50–250 µM) inhibited the mitochondrial glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (mGPDH). In liver samples from chronically treated mice, measured mGPDH activity was lower with Metformin versus Imeglimin. These data indicate that the risk of lactic acidosis with Imeglimin treatment may be lower than with Metformin and confirm that the underlying mechanisms of action are distinct, supporting its potential utility for patients with predisposing conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guillaume Vial
- University Grenoble-Alpes, INSERM U1300, Hypoxia and PhysioPathology (HP2) Laboratory, Grenoble, France
| | - Eric Fontaine
- Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, INSERM U1055, Grenoble University, Grenoble, France
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Metformin, phenformin, and galegine inhibit complex IV activity and reduce glycerol-derived gluconeogenesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2122287119. [PMID: 35238637 PMCID: PMC8916010 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2122287119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is the most commonly prescribed drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, yet the mechanism by which it lowers plasma glucose concentrations has remained elusive. Most studies to date have attributed metformin’s glucose-lowering effects to inhibition of complex I activity. Contrary to this hypothesis, we show that inhibition of complex I activity in vitro and in vivo does not reduce plasma glucose concentrations or inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis. We go on to show that metformin, and the related guanides/biguanides, phenformin and galegine, inhibit complex IV activity at clinically relevant concentrations, which, in turn, results in inhibition of glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity, increased cytosolic redox, and selective inhibition of glycerol-derived hepatic gluconeogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. Metformin exerts its plasma glucose-lowering therapeutic effect primarily through inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis. However, the precise molecular mechanism by which metformin inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis is still unclear. Although inhibition of mitochondrial complex I is frequently invoked as metformin’s primary mechanism of action, the metabolic effects of complex I inhibition have not been thoroughly evaluated in vivo. Here, we show that acute portal infusion of piericidin A, a potent and specific complex I inhibitor, does not reduce hepatic gluconeogenesis in vivo. In contrast, we show that metformin, phenformin, and galegine selectively inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis from glycerol. Specifically, we show that guanides/biguanides interact with complex IV to reduce its enzymatic activity, leading to indirect inhibition of glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) dehydrogenase (GPD2), increased cytosolic redox, and reduced glycerol-derived gluconeogenesis. We report that inhibition of complex IV with potassium cyanide replicates the effects of the guanides/biguanides in vitro by selectively reducing glycerol-derived gluconeogenesis via increased cytosolic redox. Finally, we show that complex IV inhibition is sufficient to inhibit G3P-mediated respiration and gluconeogenesis from glycerol. Taken together, we propose a mechanism of metformin action in which complex IV–mediated inhibition of GPD2 reduces glycerol-derived hepatic gluconeogenesis.
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Integrated or Independent Actions of Metformin in Target Tissues Underlying Its Current Use and New Possible Applications in the Endocrine and Metabolic Disorder Area. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313068. [PMID: 34884872 PMCID: PMC8658259 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is considered the first-choice drug for type 2 diabetes treatment. Actually, pleiotropic effects of metformin have been recognized, and there is evidence that this drug may have a favorable impact on health beyond its glucose-lowering activity. In summary, despite its long history, metformin is still an attractive research opportunity in the field of endocrine and metabolic diseases, age-related diseases, and cancer. To this end, its mode of action in distinct cell types is still in dispute. The aim of this work was to review the current knowledge and recent findings on the molecular mechanisms underlying the pharmacological effects of metformin in the field of metabolic and endocrine pathologies, including some endocrine tumors. Metformin is believed to act through multiple pathways that can be interconnected or work independently. Moreover, metformin effects on target tissues may be either direct or indirect, which means secondary to the actions on other tissues and consequent alterations at systemic level. Finally, as to the direct actions of metformin at cellular level, the intracellular milieu cooperates to cause differential responses to the drug between distinct cell types, despite the primary molecular targets may be the same within cells. Cellular bioenergetics can be regarded as the primary target of metformin action. Metformin can perturb the cytosolic and mitochondrial NAD/NADH ratio and the ATP/AMP ratio within cells, thus affecting enzymatic activities and metabolic and signaling pathways which depend on redox- and energy balance. In this context, the possible link between pyruvate metabolism and metformin actions is extensively discussed.
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