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Leow DMK, Cheah IKM, Chen L, Ng YK, Yeo CJJ, Halliwell B, Ong WY. Ergothioneine-Mediated Neuroprotection of Human iPSC-Derived Dopaminergic Neurons. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:693. [PMID: 38929132 PMCID: PMC11200999 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell death involving oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction is a major cause of dopaminergic neuronal loss in the substantia nigra (SN) of Parkinson's disease patients. Ergothioneine (ET), a natural dietary compound, has been shown to have cytoprotective functions, but neuroprotective actions against PD have not been well established. 6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) is a widely used neurotoxin to simulate the degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in Parkinson's disease. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of ET on 6-OHDA treated iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons (iDAs) and further confirmed the protective effects in 6-OHDA-treated human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. In 6-OHDA-treated cells, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mROS), reduced cellular ATP levels, and increased total protein carbonylation levels were observed. 6-OHDA treatment also significantly decreased tyrosine hydroxylase levels. These effects were significantly decreased when ET was present. Verapamil hydrochloride (VHCL), a non-specific inhibitor of the ET transporter OCTN1 abrogated ET's cytoprotective effects, indicative of an intracellular action. These results suggest that ET could be a potential therapeutic for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Meng-Kiat Leow
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
- Neurobiology Research Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Irwin Kee-Mun Cheah
- Neurobiology Research Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Lucrecia Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
- Neurobiology Research Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Yang-Kai Ng
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
- Neurobiology Research Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Crystal Jing-Jing Yeo
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore 138673, Singapore
- National Neuroscience Institute (NNI), Singapore 308433, Singapore
- Institute of Education in Healthcare and Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB51 7HA, UK
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60611, USA
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Barry Halliwell
- Neurobiology Research Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Wei-Yi Ong
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117594, Singapore
- Neurobiology Research Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
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Halliwell B, Cheah I. Are age-related neurodegenerative diseases caused by a lack of the diet-derived compound ergothioneine? Free Radic Biol Med 2024; 217:60-67. [PMID: 38492784 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
We propose that the diet-derived compound ergothioneine (ET) is an important nutrient in the human body, especially for maintenance of normal brain function, and that low body ET levels predispose humans to significantly increased risks of neurodegenerative (cognitive impairment, dementia, Parkinson's disease) and possibly other age-related diseases (including frailty, cardiovascular disease, and eye disease). Hence, restoring ET levels in the body could assist in mitigating these risks, which are rapidly increasing due to ageing populations globally. Prevention of neurodegeneration is especially important, since by the time dementia is usually diagnosed damage to the brain is extensive and likely irreversible. ET and vitamin E from the diet may act in parallel or even synergistically to protect different parts of the brain; both may be "neuroprotective vitamins". The present article reviews the substantial scientific basis supporting these proposals about the role of ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Centre for Life Sciences, #05-01A, 28 Medical Drive, 117456, Singapore.
| | - Irwin Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Centre for Life Sciences, #05-01A, 28 Medical Drive, 117456, Singapore.
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Mayayo-Vallverdú C, López de Heredia M, Prat E, González L, Espino Guarch M, Vilches C, Muñoz L, Asensi MA, Serra C, Llebaria A, Casado M, Artuch R, Garrabou G, Garcia-Roves PM, Pallardó FV, Nunes V. The antioxidant l-Ergothioneine prevents cystine lithiasis in the Slc7a9 -/- mouse model of cystinuria. Redox Biol 2023; 64:102801. [PMID: 37418888 PMCID: PMC10359938 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The high recurrence rate of cystine lithiasis observed in cystinuria patients highlights the need for new therapeutic options to address this chronic disease. There is growing evidence of an antioxidant defect in cystinuria, which has led to test antioxidant molecules as new therapeutic approaches. In this study, the antioxidant l-Ergothioneine was evaluated, at two different doses, as a preventive and long-term treatment for cystinuria in the Slc7a9-/- mouse model. l-Ergothioneine treatments decreased the rate of stone formation by more than 60% and delayed its onset in those mice that still developed calculi. Although there were no differences in metabolic parameters or urinary cystine concentration between control and treated mice, cystine solubility was increased by 50% in the urines of treated mice. We also demonstrate that l-Ergothioneine needs to be internalized by its transporter OCTN1 (Slc22a4) to be effective, as when administrated to the double mutant Slc7a9-/-Slc22a4-/- mouse model, no effect on the lithiasis phenotype was observed. In kidneys, we detected a decrease in GSH levels and an impairment of maximal mitochondrial respiratory capacity in cystinuric mice that l-Ergothioneine treatment was able to restore. Thus, l-Ergothioneine administration prevented cystine lithiasis in the Slc7a9-/- mouse model by increasing urinary cystine solubility and recovered renal GSH metabolism and mitochondrial function. These results support the need for clinical trials to test l-Ergothioneine as a new treatment for cystinuria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Mayayo-Vallverdú
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Genetics Section, Physiological Sciences Department, Health Sciences and Medicine Faculty, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Miguel López de Heredia
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) -CB06/07/0069 - CB06/07/0061 - CB06/07/0073 - CB06/07/1002 - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Prat
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Genetics Section, Physiological Sciences Department, Health Sciences and Medicine Faculty, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura González
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) -CB06/07/0069 - CB06/07/0061 - CB06/07/0073 - CB06/07/1002 - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Meritxell Espino Guarch
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Immunology Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Clara Vilches
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Institut de Ciències Fotòniques (ICFO), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860, Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lourdes Muñoz
- SIMChem, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel A Asensi
- Departamento de Fisiología. Universidad de Valencia-INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmen Serra
- SIMChem, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amadeu Llebaria
- SIMChem, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain; MCS, Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercedes Casado
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) -CB06/07/0069 - CB06/07/0061 - CB06/07/0073 - CB06/07/1002 - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Clinical Biochemistry Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Rafael Artuch
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) -CB06/07/0069 - CB06/07/0061 - CB06/07/0073 - CB06/07/1002 - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Clinical Biochemistry Department, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Gloria Garrabou
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) -CB06/07/0069 - CB06/07/0061 - CB06/07/0073 - CB06/07/1002 - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Muscle Research and Mitochondrial Function Laboratory, Cellex-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Internal Medicine Department-Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo M Garcia-Roves
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nutrition, Metabolism and Gene therapy Group Diabetes and Metabolism Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y la Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Federico V Pallardó
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER) -CB06/07/0069 - CB06/07/0061 - CB06/07/0073 - CB06/07/1002 - Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Fisiología. Universidad de Valencia-INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Virginia Nunes
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Genetics Section, Physiological Sciences Department, Health Sciences and Medicine Faculty, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Protective Effect of Ergothioneine against 7-Ketocholesterol-Induced Mitochondrial Damage in hCMEC/D3 Human Brain Endothelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065498. [PMID: 36982572 PMCID: PMC10056831 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent findings have suggested that the natural compound ergothioneine (ET), which is synthesised by certain fungi and bacteria, has considerable cytoprotective potential. We previously demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of ET on 7-ketocholesterol (7KC)-induced endothelial injury in human blood-brain barrier endothelial cells (hCMEC/D3). 7KC is an oxidised form of cholesterol present in atheromatous plaques and the sera of patients with hypercholesterolaemia and diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to elucidate the protective effect of ET on 7KC-induced mitochondrial damage. Exposure of human brain endothelial cells to 7KC led to a loss of cell viability, together with an increase in intracellular free calcium levels, increased cellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, reductions in ATP levels, and increases in mRNA expression of TFAM, Nrf2, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8. These effects were significantly decreased by ET. Protective effects of ET were diminished when endothelial cells were coincubated with verapamil hydrochloride (VHCL), a nonspecific inhibitor of the ET transporter OCTN1 (SLC22A4). This outcome demonstrates that ET-mediated protection against 7KC-induced mitochondrial damage occurred intracellularly and not through direct interaction with 7KC. OCTN1 mRNA expression itself was significantly increased in endothelial cells after 7KC treatment, consistent with the notion that stress and injury may increase ET uptake. Our results indicate that ET can protect against 7KC-induced mitochondrial injury in brain endothelial cells.
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Xiong K, Xue S, Guo H, Dai Y, Ji C, Dong L, Zhang S. Ergothioneine: new functional factor in fermented foods. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2023:1-12. [PMID: 36891762 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2023.2185766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Ergothioneine (EGT) is a high-value natural sulfur-containing amino acid and has been shown to possess extremely potent antioxidant and cytoprotective activities. At present, EGT has been widely used in food, functional food, cosmetics, medicine, and other industries, but its low yield is still an urgent problem to overcome. This review briefly introduced the biological activities and functions of EGT, and expounded its specific applications in food, functional food, cosmetic, and medical industries, introduced and compared the main production methods of EGT and respective biosynthetic pathways in different microorganisms. Furthermore, the use of genetic and metabolic engineering methods to improve EGT production was discussed. In addition, the incorporation of some food-derived EGT-producing strains into fermentation process will allow the EGT to act as a new functional factor in the fermented foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Xiong
- School of Food Science and Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Siyu Xue
- School of Food Science and Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Hui Guo
- School of Food Science and Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Yiwei Dai
- School of Food Science and Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Chaofan Ji
- School of Food Science and Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Liang Dong
- School of Food Science and Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
| | - Sufang Zhang
- School of Food Science and Technology, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian, China
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Safe and Effective Antioxidant: The Biological Mechanism and Potential Pathways of Ergothioneine in the Skin. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28041648. [PMID: 36838636 PMCID: PMC9967237 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041648] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Ergothioneine, a sulfur-containing micromolecular histidine derivative, has attracted increasing attention from scholars since it was confirmed in the human body. In the human body, ergothioneine is transported and accumulated specifically through OCTN-1, especially in the mitochondria and nucleus, suggesting that it can target damaged cells and tissues as an antioxidant. It shows excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects, and anti-aging properties, and inhibits melanin production. It is a mega antioxidant that may participate in the antioxidant network system and promote the reducing glutathione regeneration cycle. This review summarizes studies on the antioxidant effects of ergothioneine on various free radicals in vitro to date and systematically introduces its biological activities and potential mechanisms, mostly in dermatology. Additionally, the application of ergothioneine in cosmetics is briefly summarized. Lastly, we propose some problems that require solutions to understand the mechanism of action of ergothioneine. We believe that ergothioneine has good prospects in the food and cosmetics industries, and can thus meet some needs of the health and beauty industry.
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Protection against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity by Ergothioneine. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12020320. [PMID: 36829879 PMCID: PMC9951880 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12020320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Anthracyclines such as doxorubicin remain a primary treatment for hematological malignancies and breast cancers. However, cardiotoxicity induced by anthracyclines, possibly leading to heart failure, severely limits their application. The pathological mechanisms of anthracycline-induced cardiac injury are believed to involve iron-overload-mediated formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation. The dietary thione, ergothioneine (ET), is avidly absorbed and accumulated in tissues, including the heart. Amongst other cytoprotective properties, ET was shown to scavenge ROS, decrease proinflammatory mediators, and chelate metal cations, including Fe2+, preventing them from partaking in redox activities, and may protect against mitochondrial damage and dysfunction. Plasma ET levels are also strongly correlated to a decreased risk of cardiovascular events in humans, suggesting a cardioprotective role. This evidence highlights ET's potential to counteract anthracycline cardiotoxicity. Methods and Findings: We investigated whether ET supplementation can protect against cardiac dysfunction in mice models of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and revealed that it had significant protective effects. Moreover, ET administration in a mouse breast cancer model did not exacerbate the growth of the tumor or interfere with the chemotherapeutic efficacy of doxorubicin. Conclusion: These results suggest that ET could be a viable co-therapy to alleviate the cardiotoxic effects of anthracyclines in the treatment of cancers.
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Potential Cytoprotective and Regulatory Effects of Ergothioneine on Gene Expression of Proteins Involved in Erythroid Adaptation Mechanisms and Redox Pathways in K562 Cells. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13122368. [PMID: 36553634 PMCID: PMC9778224 DOI: 10.3390/genes13122368] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to establish the importance of ergothioneine (ERT) in the erythroid adaptation mechanisms by appraising the expression levels of redox-related genes associated with the PI3K/AKT/FoxO3 and Nrf2-ARE pathways using K562 cells induced to erythroid differentiation and H2O2-oxidative stress. Cell viability and gene expression were evaluated. Two concentrations of ERT were assessed, 1 nM (C1) and 100 µM (C2), with and without stress induction (100 µM H2O2). Assessments were made in three periods of the cellular differentiation process (D0, D2, and D4). The C1 treatment promoted the induction of FOXO3 (D0 and 2), PSMB5, and 6 expressions (D4); C1 + H2O2 treatment showed the highest levels of NRF2 transcripts, KEAP1 (D0), YWHAQ (D2 and 4), PSMB5 (D2) and PSMB6 (D4); and C2 + H2O2 (D2) an increase in FOXO3 and MST1 expression, with a decrease of YWHAQ and NRF2 was observed. in C2 + H2O2 (D2) an increase in FOXO3 and MST1, with a decrease in YWHAQ and NRF2 was observed All ERT treatments increased gamma-globin expression. Statistical multivariate analyzes highlighted that the Nrf2-ARE pathway presented a greater contribution in the production of PRDX1, SOD1, CAT, and PSBM5 mRNAs, whereas the PI3K/AKT/FoxO3 pathway was associated with the PRDX2 and TRX transcripts. In conclusion, ERT presented a cytoprotective action through Nrf2 and FoxO3, with the latter seeming to contribute to erythroid proliferation/differentiation.
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Abstract
Significance: Ergothioneine (ET) is an unusual sulfur-containing amino acid derived from histidine, acquired predominantly from food. Its depletion is associated with deleterious consequences in response to stress stimuli in cell culture models, prompting us to classify it as a vitamin in 2010, which was later supported by in vivo studies. ET is obtained from a variety of foods and is taken up by a selective transporter. ET possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that confer cytoprotection. ET crosses the blood-brain barrier and has been reported to have beneficial effects in the brain. In this study, we discuss the cytoprotective and neuroprotective properties of ET, which may be harnessed for combating neurodegeneration and decline during aging. Recent Advances: The designation of ET as a stress vitamin is gaining momentum, opening a new field of investigation involving small molecules that are essential for optimal physiological functioning and maintenance of health span. Critical Issues: Although ET was discovered more than a century ago, its physiological functions are still being elucidated, especially in the brain. As ET is present in most foods, toxicity associated with its deprivation has been difficult to assess. Future Directions: Using genetically engineered cells and mice, it may now be possible to elucidate roles of ET. This coupled with advances in genomics and metabolomics may lead to identification of ET function. As ET is a stable antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, whose levels decline during aging, supplementing ET in the diet or consuming an ET-rich diet may prove beneficial. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 1306-1317.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu D Paul
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Cheah IK, Lee JZ, Tang RMY, Koh PW, Halliwell B. Does Lactobacillus reuteri influence ergothioneine levels in the human body? FEBS Lett 2022; 596:1241-1251. [PMID: 35486429 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The dietary thione-thiol, ergothioneine (ET), accumulates in human and animal tissues and may play important roles in disease prevention. ET biosynthesis has only been described in fungi and certain bacteria, and humans and animals are widely assumed to accumulate ET solely from diet. However, a recent study suggested that Lactobacillus/Limosilactobacillus reuteri, a commensal gut bacterium, may produce ET, thereby protecting the host against social defeat stress and sleep disturbances. Upon our further investigation, no evidence of ET biosynthesis was observed in L. reuteri when a heavy-labelled histidine precursor was administered. Instead, we discovered that L. reuteri avidly accumulates ET. This observation may indicate a possible mechanism by which the gut microbiota could influence tissue levels of ET in the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irwin K Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596.,Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, Life Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117456
| | - Jovan Z Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596
| | - Richard M Y Tang
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596.,Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, Life Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117456
| | - Pei Wen Koh
- Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, Life Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117456
| | - Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596.,Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, Life Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117456
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Fu TT, Shen L. Ergothioneine as a Natural Antioxidant Against Oxidative Stress-Related Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:850813. [PMID: 35370675 PMCID: PMC8971627 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.850813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
L-Ergothioneine (EGT) is a natural antioxidant derived from microorganisms, especially in edible mushrooms. EGT is found to be highly accumulated in tissues that are susceptible to oxidative damage, and it has attracted extensive attention due to its powerful antioxidant activity and the tight relationships of this natural product with various oxidative stress-related diseases. Herein, we 1) introduce the biological source and in vivo distribution of EGT; 2) review the currently available evidence concerning the relationships of EGT with diabetes, ischemia-reperfusion injury-related diseases like cardiovascular diseases and liver diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and other diseases pathogenically associated with oxidative stress; 3) summarize the potential action mechanisms of EGT against these diseases; 4) discuss the advantages of EGT over other antioxidants; and 5) also propose several future research perspectives for EGT. These may help to promote the future application of this attractive natural antioxidant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong-Tong Fu
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
- Shandong Provincial Research Center for Bioinformatic Engineering and Technique, Zibo Key Laboratory of New Drug Development of Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
| | - Liang Shen
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
- Shandong Provincial Research Center for Bioinformatic Engineering and Technique, Zibo Key Laboratory of New Drug Development of Neurodegenerative Diseases, School of Life Sciences and Medicine, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
- *Correspondence: Liang Shen,
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12
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Searching for a Longevity Food, We Bump into Hericium erinaceus Primordium Rich in Ergothioneine: The “Longevity Vitamin” Improves Locomotor Performances during Aging. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14061177. [PMID: 35334834 PMCID: PMC8950371 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061177] [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: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic frailty is characterized by a progressive decline in physical functioning. During ageing, morphological and functional alterations involve the brain, and chief theories involve oxidative stress, free radical accumulation, and reduced antioxidant defenses as the most implicated mechanisms. From boosting the immune system to fighting senescence, medicinal mushrooms have been found to have a number of health and longevity benefits. Among them, Hericium erinaceus (He) has been demonstrated to display a variety of physiological effects, including anti-aging properties. Thus, He represents an attractive natural source for developing novel medicines and functional foods, based on the identification of its active ingredients and metabolites. Particularly, H. erinaceus primordium (He2) extract contains a high amount of Ergothioneine (ERGO), the longevity vitamin. Herein, we revealed the preventive effect of ERGO-rich He2 extract in a preclinical model, focusing on locomotor decline during ageing monitored through spontaneous behavioral test. This effect was accompanied by a significant decrease in some oxidative stress markers (NOS2, COX2) paralleled by an increase in P53, showed in cerebellar cortex cells and fibres by immunohistochemistry. In summary, we demonstrated the neuro-protective and preventive effects of He2 extract during aging, probably due to its peculiarly high ERGO content.
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Yadan JC. Matching chemical properties to molecular biological activities opens a new perspective on L-ergothioneine. FEBS Lett 2021; 596:1299-1312. [PMID: 34928499 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
L-ergothioneine is a low-molecular weight natural product, the chemical structure of which comprises oxygen-, nitrogen- and sulfur-containing functional groups. This gives L-ergothioneine specific physicochemical properties and allows to better understanding its chemical reactivity, which is primarily due to the 2-thio-imidazole group. Here, I review how different modes of chemical reactivity account for the reported molecular biological activities of L-ergothioneine. By matching the physicochemical properties to the biological properties of L-ergothioneine, a new perspective of the function and the mode of action of this enigmatic molecule emerges into the limelight.
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Tian X, Cioccoloni G, Sier JH, Naseem KM, Thorne JL, Moore JB. Ergothioneine supplementation in people with metabolic syndrome (ErgMS): protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2021; 7:193. [PMID: 34715934 PMCID: PMC8555363 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-021-00929-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring metabolite of histidine found in many foods and in high amounts in mushrooms. In vivo, ergothioneine acts as an antioxidant and is widely distributed in most mammalian tissues. While ergothioneine is sold as a dietary supplement for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, to date there are no published intervention trials examining its health benefits in humans. The aim of this work was to develop a study protocol for a pilot interventional trial that will establish the primary and secondary outcomes, and the power required, for a definitive randomised controlled trial to test the hypothesis that ergothioneine supplementation is beneficial for people with metabolic syndrome. Methods We have designed the ErgMS study as a single-centre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 3-arm parallel, pilot intervention trial, which aims to supplement participants with either placebo, 5 or 30 mg/day ergothioneine for 12 weeks. Measurements of metabolic syndrome risk factors, serum markers of oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation), inflammation, blood platelet function and liver function will take place at baseline, and after 6 weeks and 12 weeks of supplementation. In addition, we will examine if there are any changes in the serum metabolome in response to ergothioneine supplementation. Linear regression and two-way ANOVA will be utilised to analyse the association between ergothioneine and measured variables. Discussion The ErgMS study will be the first study to address the question does ergothioneine supplementation have health benefits for people with metabolic syndrome. Study results will provide preliminary data as to which dose may improve inflammatory markers in adults with metabolic syndrome and will inform dose and primary outcome selection for a definitive randomised controlled trial. Trial registration ISRCTN, ISRCTN25890011 Registered February 10th, 2021 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40814-021-00929-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Tian
- School of Food Science & Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Giorgia Cioccoloni
- School of Food Science & Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Joanna H Sier
- School of Food Science & Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Khalid M Naseem
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - James L Thorne
- School of Food Science & Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - J Bernadette Moore
- School of Food Science & Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
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A novel antioxidant ergothioneine PET radioligand for in vivo imaging applications. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18450. [PMID: 34531467 PMCID: PMC8446031 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97925-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Ergothioneine (ERGO) is a rare amino acid mostly found in fungi, including mushrooms, with recognized antioxidant activity to protect tissues from damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS) components. Prior to this publication, the biodistribution of ERGO has been performed solely in vitro using extracted tissues. The aim of this study was to develop a feasible chemistry for the synthesis of an ERGO PET radioligand, [11C]ERGO, to facilitate in vivo study. The radioligand probe was synthesized with identical structure to ERGO by employing an orthogonal protection/deprotection approach. [11C]methylation of the precursor was performed via [11C]CH3OTf to provide [11C]ERGO radioligand. The [11C]ERGO was isolated by RP-HPLC with a molar activity of 690 TBq/mmol. To demonstrate the biodistribution of the radioligand, we administered approximately 37 MBq/0.1 mL in 5XFAD mice, a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease via the tail vein. The distribution of ERGO in the brain was monitored using 90-min dynamic PET scans. The delivery and specific retention of [11C]ERGO in an LPS-mediated neuroinflammation mouse model was also demonstrated. For the pharmacokinetic study, the concentration of the compound in the serum started to decrease 10 min after injection while starting to distribute in other peripheral tissues. In particular, a significant amount of the compound was found in the eyes and small intestine. The radioligand was also distributed in several regions of the brain of 5XFAD mice, and the signal remained strong 30 min post-injection. This is the first time the biodistribution of this antioxidant and rare amino acid has been demonstrated in a preclinical mouse model in a highly sensitive and non-invasive manner.
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López de Heredia M, Muñoz L, Carru C, Sotgia S, Zinellu A, Serra C, Llebaria A, Kato Y, Nunes V. S-Methyl-L-Ergothioneine to L-Ergothioneine Ratio in Urine Is a Marker of Cystine Lithiasis in a Cystinuria Mouse Model. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10091424. [PMID: 34573056 PMCID: PMC8471778 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystinuria, a rare inherited aminoaciduria condition, is characterized by the hyperexcretion of cystine, ornithine, lysine, and arginine. Its main clinical manifestation is cystine stone formation in the urinary tract, being responsible for 1–2% total and 6–8% pediatric lithiasis. Cystinuria patients suffer from recurrent lithiasic episodes that might end in surgical interventions, progressive renal functional deterioration, and kidney loss. Cystinuria is monitored for the presence of urinary cystine stones by crystalluria, imaging techniques or urinary cystine capacity; all with limited predicting capabilities. We analyzed blood and urine levels of the natural antioxidant L-ergothioneine in a Type B cystinuria mouse model, and urine levels of its metabolic product S-methyl-L-ergothioneine, in both male and female mice at two different ages and with different lithiasic phenotype. Urinary levels of S-methyl-L-ergothioneine showed differences related to age, gender and lithiasic phenotype. Once normalized by L-ergothioneine to account for interindividual differences, the S-methyl-L-ergothioneine to L-ergothioneine urinary ratio discriminated between cystine lithiasic phenotypes. Urine S-methyl-L-ergothioneine to L-ergothioneine ratio could be easily determined in urine and, as being capable of discriminating between cystine lithiasis phenotypes, it could be used as a lithiasis biomarker in cystinuria patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel López de Heredia
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, IDIBELL, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER)-CB06/07/0069, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.L.d.H.); (V.N.); Tel.: +34-93-260-4706 (M.L.d.H. & V.N.)
| | - Lourdes Muñoz
- SIMChem, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (L.M.); (C.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Ciriaco Carru
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.C.); (S.S.); (A.Z.)
| | - Salvatore Sotgia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.C.); (S.S.); (A.Z.)
| | - Angelo Zinellu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (C.C.); (S.S.); (A.Z.)
| | - Carmen Serra
- SIMChem, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (L.M.); (C.S.); (A.L.)
| | - Amadeu Llebaria
- SIMChem, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (L.M.); (C.S.); (A.L.)
- MCS, Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC-CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yukio Kato
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan;
| | - Virginia Nunes
- Human Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Gene, Disease and Therapy Program, IDIBELL, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER)-CB06/07/0069, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Genetics Section, Physiological Sciences Department, Health Sciences and Medicine Faculty, University of Barcelona, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.L.d.H.); (V.N.); Tel.: +34-93-260-4706 (M.L.d.H. & V.N.)
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Dare A, Elrashedy AA, Channa ML, Nadar A. Cardioprotective Effects and In-Silico Antioxidant Mechanism of L-Ergothioneine In Experimental Type-2 Diabetic Rats. Cardiovasc Hematol Agents Med Chem 2021; 20:133-147. [PMID: 34370646 DOI: 10.2174/1871525719666210809122541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic cardiotoxicity is commonly associated with oxidative injury, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. L-ergothioneine (L-egt), a diet-derived amino acid, has been reported to decrease mortality and risk of cardiovascular injury, provides cytoprotection to tissues exposed to oxidative damage, and prevents diabetes-induced perturbation. OBJECTIVE This study investigated the cardioprotective effects of L-egt on diabetes-induced cardiovascular injuries and its probable mechanism of action. METHODS Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into non-diabetic (n=6) and diabetic groups (n=18). Six weeks after the induction of diabetes, the diabetic rats were divided into three groups (n=6) and administered distilled water, L-egt (35mg/kg), and losartan (20mg/kg) by oral gavage for six weeks. Blood glucose and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded pre-and post-treatment, while biochemical, ELISA, and Rt-PCR analyses were conducted to determine inflammatory, injury-related and antioxidant biomarkers in cardiac tissue after euthanasia. Also, an in-silico study, including docking and molecular dynamic simulations of L-egt toward the Keap1-Nrf2 protein complex, was done to provide a basis for the molecular antioxidant mechanism of L-egt. RESULTS Administration of L-egt to diabetic animals reduced serum triglyceride, water intake, MAP, biomarkers of cardiac injury (CK-MB, LDH), lipid peroxidation, and inflammation. Also, L-egt increased body weight, antioxidant enzymes, upregulated Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 expression, and decreased Keap1 expression. The in-silico study showed that L-egt inhibits Keap1-Nrf2 complex by binding to the active site of Nrf2 protein, thereby preventing its degradation. CONCLUSION L-egt protects against diabetes-induced cardiovascular injury via the upregulation of Keap1-Nrf2 pathway and its downstream cytoprotective antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayobami Dare
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban X54001, South Africa
| | - Ahmed A Elrashedy
- Department of Natural and Microbial Products, National Research Center, Dokki, Egypt
| | - Mahendra L Channa
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban X54001, South Africa
| | - Anand Nadar
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban X54001, South Africa
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Tripathi DM, Rohilla S, Kaur I, Siddiqui H, Rawal P, Juneja P, Kumar V, Kumari A, Naidu VGM, Ramakrishna S, Banerjee S, Puria R, Sarin SK, Kaur S. Immunonano-Lipocarrier-Mediated Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cell-Specific RUNX1 Inhibition Impedes Immune Cell Infiltration and Hepatic Inflammation in Murine Model of NASH. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168489. [PMID: 34445195 PMCID: PMC8395158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Runt-related transcription factor (RUNX1) regulates inflammation in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Methods: We performed in vivo targeted silencing of the RUNX1 gene in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) by using vegfr3 antibody tagged immunonano-lipocarriers encapsulated RUNX1 siRNA (RUNX1 siRNA) in murine models of methionine choline deficient (MCD) diet-induced NASH. MCD mice given nanolipocarriers-encapsulated negative siRNA were vehicle, and mice with standard diet were controls. Results: Liver RUNX1 expression was increased in the LSECs of MCD mice in comparison to controls. RUNX1 protein expression was decreased by 40% in CD31-positive LSECs of RUNX1 siRNA mice in comparison to vehicle, resulting in the downregulation of adhesion molecules, ICAM1 expression, and VCAM1 expression in LSECs. There was a marked decrease in infiltrated T cells and myeloid cells along with reduced inflammatory cytokines in the liver of RUNX1 siRNA mice as compared to that observed in the vehicle. Conclusions: In vivo LSEC-specific silencing of RUNX1 using immunonano-lipocarriers encapsulated siRNA effectively reduces its expression of adhesion molecules, infiltrate on of immune cells in liver, and inflammation in NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Mani Tripathi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India; (D.M.T.); (I.K.); (H.S.); (P.J.); (A.K.); (S.K.S.)
| | - Sumati Rohilla
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida 201312, India; (S.R.); (P.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Impreet Kaur
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India; (D.M.T.); (I.K.); (H.S.); (P.J.); (A.K.); (S.K.S.)
| | - Hamda Siddiqui
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India; (D.M.T.); (I.K.); (H.S.); (P.J.); (A.K.); (S.K.S.)
| | - Preety Rawal
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida 201312, India; (S.R.); (P.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Pinky Juneja
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India; (D.M.T.); (I.K.); (H.S.); (P.J.); (A.K.); (S.K.S.)
| | - Vikash Kumar
- Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India;
| | - Anupama Kumari
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India; (D.M.T.); (I.K.); (H.S.); (P.J.); (A.K.); (S.K.S.)
| | - Vegi Ganga Modi Naidu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781122, India; (V.G.M.N.); (S.B.)
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117575, Singapore;
| | - Subham Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781122, India; (V.G.M.N.); (S.B.)
| | - Rekha Puria
- School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida 201312, India; (S.R.); (P.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Shiv K. Sarin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India; (D.M.T.); (I.K.); (H.S.); (P.J.); (A.K.); (S.K.S.)
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India
| | - Savneet Kaur
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India; (D.M.T.); (I.K.); (H.S.); (P.J.); (A.K.); (S.K.S.)
- Correspondence:
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Lam-Sidun D, Peters KM, Borradaile NM. Mushroom-Derived Medicine? Preclinical Studies Suggest Potential Benefits of Ergothioneine for Cardiometabolic Health. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063246. [PMID: 33806754 PMCID: PMC8004618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Medicinal use of mushrooms has been documented since ancient times, and in the modern world, mushrooms have a longstanding history of use in Eastern medicine. Recent interest in plant-based diets in Westernized countries has brought increasing attention to the use of mushrooms and mushroom-derived compounds in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Edible mushrooms are the most abundant food sources of the modified amino acid, ergothioneine. This compound has been shown to accumulate in almost all cells and tissues, but preferentially in those exposed to oxidative stress and injury. The demonstrated cytoprotectant effect of ergothioneine has led many to suggest a potential therapeutic role for this compound in chronic conditions that involve ongoing oxidative stress and inflammation, including cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. However, the in vivo effects of ergothioneine and its underlying therapeutic mechanisms in the whole organism are not as clear. Moreover, there are no well-defined, clinical prevention and intervention trials of ergothioneine in chronic disease. This review highlights the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of ergothioneine and its potential as a Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine for the promotion of cardiometabolic health and the management of the most common manifestations of cardiometabolic disease.
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Cheah IK, Halliwell B. Ergothioneine, recent developments. Redox Biol 2021; 42:101868. [PMID: 33558182 PMCID: PMC8113028 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2021.101868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been a recent surge of interest in the unique low molecular weight dietary thiol/thione, ergothioneine. This compound can accumulate at high levels in the body from diet and may play important physiological roles in human health and development, and possibly in prevention and treatment of disease. Blood levels of ergothioneine decline with age and onset of various diseases. Here we highlight recent advances in our knowledge of ergothioneine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irwin K Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117596, Singapore; Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, 117456, Singapore
| | - Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117596, Singapore; Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, 117456, Singapore.
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Borodina I, Kenny LC, McCarthy CM, Paramasivan K, Pretorius E, Roberts TJ, van der Hoek SA, Kell DB. The biology of ergothioneine, an antioxidant nutraceutical. Nutr Res Rev 2020; 33:190-217. [PMID: 32051057 PMCID: PMC7653990 DOI: 10.1017/s0954422419000301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ergothioneine (ERG) is an unusual thio-histidine betaine amino acid that has potent antioxidant activities. It is synthesised by a variety of microbes, especially fungi (including in mushroom fruiting bodies) and actinobacteria, but is not synthesised by plants and animals who acquire it via the soil and their diet, respectively. Animals have evolved a highly selective transporter for it, known as solute carrier family 22, member 4 (SLC22A4) in humans, signifying its importance, and ERG may even have the status of a vitamin. ERG accumulates differentially in various tissues, according to their expression of SLC22A4, favouring those such as erythrocytes that may be subject to oxidative stress. Mushroom or ERG consumption seems to provide significant prevention against oxidative stress in a large variety of systems. ERG seems to have strong cytoprotective status, and its concentration is lowered in a number of chronic inflammatory diseases. It has been passed as safe by regulatory agencies, and may have value as a nutraceutical and antioxidant more generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Borodina
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Building 220, Chemitorvet 200, Technical University of Denmark, 2800Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Louise C. Kenny
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, LiverpoolL8 7SS, UK
| | - Cathal M. McCarthy
- Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Republic of Ireland
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Republic of Ireland
| | - Kalaivani Paramasivan
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Building 220, Chemitorvet 200, Technical University of Denmark, 2800Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Etheresia Pretorius
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1 Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Timothy J. Roberts
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1 Matieland, 7602, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, LiverpoolL69 7ZB, UK
| | - Steven A. van der Hoek
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Building 220, Chemitorvet 200, Technical University of Denmark, 2800Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Douglas B. Kell
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Building 220, Chemitorvet 200, Technical University of Denmark, 2800Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1 Matieland, 7602, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, LiverpoolL69 7ZB, UK
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Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in early-onset and late-onset preeclampsia. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165961. [PMID: 32916282 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific syndrome with multisystem involvement which leads to foetal, neonatal, and maternal morbidity and mortality. This syndrome is characterized by the onset of clinical signs and symptoms and delivery before (early-onset preeclampsia, eoPE), or after (late-onset preeclampsia, loPE), the 34 weeks of gestation. Preeclampsia is a mitochondrial disorder where its differential involvement in eoPE and loPE is unclear. Mitochondria regulate cell metabolism and are a significant source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The syncytiotrophoblast in eoPE and loPE show altered mitochondrial structure and function resulting in ROS overproduction, oxidative stress, and cell damage and death. Mitochondrial dysfunction in eoPE may result from altered expression of several molecules, including dynamin-related protein 1 and mitofusins, compared with loPE where these factors are either reduced or unaltered. Equally, mitochondrial fusion/fission dynamics seem differentially modulated in eoPE and loPE. It is unclear whether the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation are differentially altered in these two subgroups of preeclampsia. However, the activity of complex IV (cytochrome c oxidase) and the expression of essential proteins involved in the electron transport chain are reduced, leading to lower oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial respiration in the preeclamptic placenta. Interventional studies in patients with preeclampsia using the coenzyme Q10, a key molecule in the electron transport chain, suggest that agents that increase the antioxidative capacity of the placenta may be protective against preeclampsia development. In this review, the mitochondrial dysfunction in both eoPE and loPE is summarized. Therapeutic approaches are discussed in the context of contributing to the understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction in eoPE and loPE.
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Cheah IK, Halliwell B. Could Ergothioneine Aid in the Treatment of Coronavirus Patients? Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E595. [PMID: 32646061 PMCID: PMC7402156 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9070595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with SARS-CoV-2 causes the coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19), a pandemic that has, at present, infected more than 11 million people globally. Some COVID-19 patients develop a severe and critical illness, spurred on by excessive inflammation that can lead to respiratory or multiorgan failure. Numerous studies have established the unique array of cytoprotective properties of the dietary amino acid ergothioneine. Based on studies in a range of in vitro and in vivo models, ergothioneine has exhibited the ability to modulate inflammation, scavenge free radicals, protect against acute respiratory distress syndrome, prevent endothelial dysfunction, protect against ischemia and reperfusion injury, protect against neuronal damage, counteract iron dysregulation, hinder lung and liver fibrosis, and mitigate damage to the lungs, kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and testis, amongst many others. When compiled, this evidence suggests that ergothioneine has a potential application in the treatment of the underlying pathology of COVID-19. We propose that ergothioneine could be used as a therapeutic to reduce the severity and mortality of COVID-19, especially in the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. This review presents evidence to support that proposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irwin K. Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore;
- Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore;
- Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
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Morillon AC, Williamson RD, Baker PN, Kell DB, Kenny LC, English JA, McCarthy FP, McCarthy C. Effect of L-Ergothioneine on the metabolic plasma profile of the RUPP rat model of pre-eclampsia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230977. [PMID: 32231385 PMCID: PMC7108727 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-eclampsia is a major cause of maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Its pathophysiology remains unclear, but mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress have been implicated. L-Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring, water-soluble betaine, that has demonstrated antioxidant properties. Using the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of pre-eclampsia, this study aimed to define the plasma metabolic profile following treatment with L-Ergothioneine. METHODS The effect of L-Ergothioneine (ET) treatment was explored using in vivo treatment in rats: Sham control (SC, n = 5), RUPP control (RC, n = 5), Sham +ET (ST, n = 5), RUPP +ET (RT, n = 5). Differential expression of plasma metabolites were obtained using untargeted liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Statistical analysis was performed on normalised data comparing RC to SC, RT to RC, and RT to ST. Metabolites significantly altered (FDR < 0.05) were identified through database search. RESULTS We report significantly lower levels of L-palmitoylcarnitine in RC compared to SC, a fatty acyl substrate involved in beta-oxidation in the mitochondria. We report that a metabolite that has been associated with oxidative stress (Glutamylcysteine) was detected at significantly higher levels in RT vs RC and RT vs ST. Five metabolites associated with inflammation were significantly lower in RT vs RC and three metabolites in RT vs ST, demonstrating the anti-inflammatory effects of ET in the RUPP rat model of pre-eclampsia. CONCLUSIONS L-Ergothioneine may help preserve mitochondrial function by increasing antioxidant levels, and reducing inflammatory responses associated with pre-eclampsia. This study shows the potential of L-Ergothioneine as a treatment for pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aude-Claire Morillon
- INFANT Research Centre, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Philip N. Baker
- College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas B. Kell
- Dept of Biochemistry, Institute of Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Louise C. Kenny
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jane A. English
- INFANT Research Centre, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Fergus P. McCarthy
- INFANT Research Centre, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Cathal McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Natural Sulfur-Containing Compounds: An Alternative Therapeutic Strategy against Liver Fibrosis. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111356. [PMID: 31671675 PMCID: PMC6929087 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a pathophysiologic process involving the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins as collagen deposition. Advanced liver fibrosis can evolve in cirrhosis, portal hypertension and often requires liver transplantation. At the cellular level, hepatic fibrosis involves the activation of hepatic stellate cells and their transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts. Numerous pro-fibrogenic mediators including the transforming growth factor-β1, the platelet-derived growth factor, endothelin-1, toll-like receptor 4, and reactive oxygen species are key players in this process. Knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrosis development need to be extended to find novel therapeutic strategies. Antifibrotic therapies aim to inhibit the accumulation of fibrogenic cells and/or prevent the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins. Natural products from terrestrial and marine sources, including sulfur-containing compounds, exhibit promising activities for the treatment of fibrotic pathology. Although many therapeutic interventions are effective in experimental models of liver fibrosis, their efficacy and safety in humans are largely unknown. This review aims to provide a reference collection on experimentally tested natural anti-fibrotic compounds, with particular attention on sulfur-containing molecules. Their chemical structure, sources, mode of action, molecular targets, and pharmacological activity in the treatment of liver disease will be discussed.
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26
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Kaur S, Rawal P, Siddiqui H, Rohilla S, Sharma S, Tripathi DM, Baweja S, Hassan M, Vlaic S, Guthke R, Thomas M, Dayoub R, Bihari C, Sarin SK, Weiss TS. Increased Expression of RUNX1 in Liver Correlates with NASH Activity Score in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Cells 2019; 8:cells8101277. [PMID: 31635436 PMCID: PMC6830073 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the important role of angiogenesis in liver pathology, the current study investigated the role of Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1), a regulator of developmental angiogenesis, in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Quantitative RT-PCRs and a transcription factor analysis of angiogenesis-associated differentially expressed genes in liver tissues of healthy controls, patients with steatosis and NASH, indicated a potential role of RUNX1 in NASH. The gene expression of RUNX1 was correlated with histopathological attributes of patients. The protein expression of RUNX1 in liver was studied by immunohistochemistry. To explore the underlying mechanisms, in vitro studies using RUNX1 siRNA and overexpression plasmids were performed in endothelial cells (ECs). RUNX1 expression was significantly correlated with inflammation, fibrosis and NASH activity score in NASH patients. Its expression was conspicuous in liver non-parenchymal cells. In vitro, factors from steatotic hepatocytes and/or VEGF or TGF- significantly induced the expression of RUNX1 in ECs. RUNX1 regulated the expression of angiogenic and adhesion molecules in ECs, including CCL2, PECAM1 and VCAM1, which was shown by silencing or over-expression of RUNX1. Furthermore, RUNX1 increased the angiogenic activity of ECs. This study reports that steatosis-induced RUNX1 augmented the expression of adhesion and angiogenic molecules and properties in ECs and may be involved in enhancing inflammation and disease severity in NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savneet Kaur
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi-110070, India.
| | - Preety Rawal
- Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida-201308, India.
| | - Hamda Siddiqui
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi-110070, India.
- Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida-201308, India.
| | | | - Shvetank Sharma
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi-110070, India.
| | | | - Sukriti Baweja
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi-110070, India.
| | - Mohsin Hassan
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi-110070, India.
| | - Sebastian Vlaic
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll-Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany.
| | - Reinhard Guthke
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll-Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany.
| | - Maria Thomas
- Dr. Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Stuttgart, and University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Rania Dayoub
- University Children Hospital (KUNO), University Hospital of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Chaggan Bihari
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi-110070, India.
| | - Shiv K Sarin
- Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi-110070, India.
| | - Thomas S Weiss
- University Children Hospital (KUNO), University Hospital of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
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van der Hoek SA, Darbani B, Zugaj KE, Prabhala BK, Biron MB, Randelovic M, Medina JB, Kell DB, Borodina I. Engineering the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the Production of L-(+)-Ergothioneine. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:262. [PMID: 31681742 PMCID: PMC6797849 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
L-(+)-Ergothioneine (ERG) is an unusual, naturally occurring antioxidant nutraceutical that has been shown to help reduce cellular oxidative damage. Humans do not biosynthesise ERG, but acquire it from their diet; it exploits a specific transporter (SLC22A4) for its uptake. ERG is considered to be a nutraceutical and possible vitamin that is involved in the maintenance of health, and seems to be at too low a concentration in several diseases in vivo. Ergothioneine is thus a potentially useful dietary supplement. Present methods of commercial production rely on extraction from natural sources or on chemical synthesis. Here we describe the engineering of the baker's yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce ergothioneine by fermentation in defined media. After integrating combinations of ERG biosynthetic pathways from different organisms, we screened yeast strains for their production of ERG. The highest-producing strain was also engineered with known ergothioneine transporters. The effect of amino acid supplementation of the medium was investigated and the nitrogen metabolism of S. cerevisiae was altered by knock-out of TOR1 or YIH1. We also optimized the media composition using fractional factorial methods. Our optimal strategy led to a titer of 598 ± 18 mg/L ergothioneine in fed-batch culture in 1 L bioreactors. Because S. cerevisiae is a GRAS ("generally recognized as safe") organism that is widely used for nutraceutical production, this work provides a promising process for the biosynthetic production of ERG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A. van der Hoek
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Behrooz Darbani
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Karolina E. Zugaj
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Bala Krishna Prabhala
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Mathias Bernfried Biron
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Milica Randelovic
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jacqueline B. Medina
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Douglas B. Kell
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Irina Borodina
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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Maurer A, Leisinger F, Lim D, Seebeck FP. Structure and Mechanism of Ergothionase fromTreponema denticola. Chemistry 2019; 25:10298-10303. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.201901866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Maurer
- Department for ChemistryUniversity of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a Basel 4002 Switzerland
| | - Florian Leisinger
- Department for ChemistryUniversity of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a Basel 4002 Switzerland
| | - David Lim
- Department for ChemistryUniversity of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a Basel 4002 Switzerland
| | - Florian P. Seebeck
- Department for ChemistryUniversity of Basel Mattenstrasse 24a Basel 4002 Switzerland
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29
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Cheah IK, Ng LT, Ng LF, Lam VY, Gruber J, Huang CYW, Goh FQ, Lim KHC, Halliwell B. Inhibition of amyloid-induced toxicity by ergothioneine in a transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans model. FEBS Lett 2019; 593:2139-2150. [PMID: 31211853 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The abnormal accumulation of β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) is recognized as a central component in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease. While many aspects of Aβ-mediated neurotoxicity remain elusive, Aβ has been associated with numerous underlying pathologies, including oxidative and nitrosative stress, inflammation, metal ion imbalance, mitochondrial dysfunction, and even tau pathology. Ergothioneine (ET), a naturally occurring thiol/thione-derivative of histidine, has demonstrated antioxidant and neuroprotective properties against various oxidative and neurotoxic stressors. This study investigates ET's potential to counteract Aβ-toxicity in transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans overexpressing a human Aβ peptide. The accumulation of Aβ in this model leads to paralysis and premature death. We show that ET dose-dependently reduces Aβ-oligomerization and extends the lifespan and healthspan of the nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irwin K Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Li-Theng Ng
- Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Yale-NUS College, Singapore
| | | | - Vanessa Y Lam
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jan Gruber
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Yale-NUS College, Singapore
| | - Cheryl Y W Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fang-Qin Goh
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Keith H C Lim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National University Health System, National University Cancer Institute Singapore, Singapore
| | - Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Life Science Institute, Neurobiology Programme, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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31
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Halliwell B, Cheah IK, Tang RMY. Ergothioneine - a diet-derived antioxidant with therapeutic potential. FEBS Lett 2018; 592:3357-3366. [PMID: 29851075 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Ergothioneine is a thiol/thione molecule synthesised only by some fungi and bacteria. Nonetheless, it is avidly taken up from the diet by humans and other animals through a transporter, OCTN1, and accumulates to high levels in certain tissues. Ergothioneine is not rapidly metabolised, or excreted in urine and is present in many, if not all, human tissues and body fluids. Ergothioneine has powerful antioxidant and cytoprotective properties in vitro and there is evidence that the body may concentrate it at sites of tissue injury by raising OCTN1 levels. Decreased blood and/or plasma levels of ergothioneine have been observed in some diseases, suggesting that a deficiency could be relevant to the disease onset or progression. This brief Review explores the possible roles of ergothioneine in human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore
| | - Irwin K Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore
| | - Richard M Y Tang
- National University of Singapore Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Singapore, Singapore
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32
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Heat shock protein 70 promotes lipogenesis in HepG2 cells. Lipids Health Dis 2018; 17:73. [PMID: 29631603 PMCID: PMC5891916 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-018-0722-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The increasing prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has followed the international rise in obesity rates. Multiple mechanisms are involved in NAFLD, including endoplasmic reticulum stress and oxidative stress. Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), which is abundant in most organisms, is sensitive to stress. However, the role of HSP70 in NAFLD has not been investigated. Here, we investigated the possible role of HSP70 in lipid synthesis. Methods C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet, and HepG2 cells were treated with 0.5 mM palmitic acid (PA). HSP70 expression was detected by qPCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). After Hsp70 overexpression and knockdown, TC and TG levels and FAS, SCD, and ACC expression were detected. Results HSP70 expression was significantly increased in the livers of obese mice. In vitro, HSP70 expression was markedly induced by PA in HepG2 cells. Notably, HSP70 overexpression in HepG2 cells enhanced TC and TG synthesis, in parallel with the upregulation of lipogenic genes, including FAS, SCD and ACC. By contrast, HSP70 knockdown decreased the levels of cellular lipids and the expression of FAS, SCD, and ACC in HepG2 cells. Together, our results suggest that HSP70 may promote lipogenesis in HepG2 cells. Conclusions Heat shock protein 70 promotes lipogenesis in HepG2 cells.
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Kerley RN, McCarthy C, Kell DB, Kenny LC. The potential therapeutic effects of ergothioneine in pre-eclampsia. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 117:145-157. [PMID: 29284116 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2017.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Ergothioneine (ERG), is a water-soluble amino acid that is derived entirely from dietary sources. It has received much attention as a therapeutic agent due to its anti-oxidant properties, and there are claims of preferential accumulation within high oxidative stress organs. Pre-eclampsia, a condition accompanied by increased oxidative stress, is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Despite intense research efforts, its aetiologies remain somewhat unclear and there are still no effective treatment options. Clinical trials of the anti-oxidants vitamin C and vitamin E have proven largely ineffective with little improvement in clinical outcome or even a negative response. This could be explained in part by their inability to permeate the plasma and mitochondrial membranes and scavenge mitochondria-derived superoxide species, and for the former by the fact that it is actually a pro-oxidant in the presence of unliganded iron. ERG accumulates within tissues through the action of a specific organic cation transporter, SLC22A4 (previously referred to as OCTN1), which is possibly also expressed in mammalian mitochondria. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in a variety of vascular diseases including pre-eclampsia. This review discusses the use of ERG as a possibly mitochondrial-targeted anti-oxidant, focusing on its physical properties, potential mechanisms of action, safety profile and administration in relation to pregnancies complicated by pre-eclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert N Kerley
- Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Cathal McCarthy
- Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Douglas B Kell
- School of Chemistry and The Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess St, Manchester M1 7DN, UK.
| | - Louise C Kenny
- Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland.
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Tang RMY, Cheah IKM, Yew TSK, Halliwell B. Distribution and accumulation of dietary ergothioneine and its metabolites in mouse tissues. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1601. [PMID: 29371632 PMCID: PMC5785509 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20021-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
L-ergothioneine (ET) is a diet-derived amino acid that accumulates at high concentrations in animals and humans. Numerous studies have highlighted its antioxidant abilities in vitro, and possible cytoprotective capabilities in vivo. We investigated the uptake and distribution of ET in various organs by a highly sensitive and specific liquid chromatography coupled tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) technique, both before and after oral administration of pure ET (35 and 70 mg/kg/day for 1, 7, and 28 days) to male C57BL6J mice. ET primarily concentrates in the liver and whole blood, and also in spleen, kidney, lung, heart, intestines, eye, and brain tissues. Strong correlations were found between ET and its putative metabolites - hercynine, ET-sulfonate (ET-SO3H), and S-methyl ET. Hercynine accumulates in the brain after prolonged ET administration. This study demonstrates the uptake and distribution of ET and provides a foundation for future studies with ET to target oxidative damage in a range of tissues in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Ming Yi Tang
- National University of Singapore Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Irwin Kee-Mun Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Terry Shze Keong Yew
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, Singapore, Singapore.
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Abstract
Ergothioneine (ESH), the betaine of 2-mercapto-L-histidine, is a water-soluble naturally occurring amino acid with antioxidant properties. ESH accumulates in several human and animal tissues up to millimolar concentration through its high affinity transporter, namely the organic cation transporter 1 (OCTN1). ESH, first isolated from the ergot fungus (Claviceps purpurea), is synthesized only by Actinomycetales and non-yeast-like fungi. Plants absorb ESH via symbiotic associations between their roots and soil fungi, whereas mammals acquire it solely from dietary sources. Numerous evidence demonstrated the antioxidant and cytoprotective effects of ESH, including protection against cardiovascular diseases, chronic inflammatory conditions, ultraviolet radiation damages, and neuronal injuries. Although more than a century after its discovery has gone by, our understanding on the in vivo ESH mechanism is limited and this compound still intrigues researchers. However, recent evidence about differences in chemical redox behavior between ESH and alkylthiols, such as cysteine and glutathione, has opened new perspectives on the role of ESH during oxidative damage. In this short review, we discuss the role of ESH in the complex machinery of the cellular antioxidant defense focusing on the current knowledge on its chemical mechanism of action in the protection against cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reto Burn
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
| | - Laëtitia Misson
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
| | - Marcel Meury
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
| | - Florian P. Seebeck
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
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Burn R, Misson L, Meury M, Seebeck FP. Anaerobic Origin of Ergothioneine. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017; 56:12508-12511. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201705932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Reto Burn
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
| | - Laëtitia Misson
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
| | - Marcel Meury
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
| | - Florian P. Seebeck
- Department for Chemistry University of Basel St. Johanns-Ring 19 4056 Basel Switzerland
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Cheah IK, Tang RMY, Yew TSZ, Lim KHC, Halliwell B. Administration of Pure Ergothioneine to Healthy Human Subjects: Uptake, Metabolism, and Effects on Biomarkers of Oxidative Damage and Inflammation. Antioxid Redox Signal 2017; 26:193-206. [PMID: 27488221 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2016.6778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM We investigated the uptake and pharmacokinetics of l-ergothioneine (ET), a dietary thione with free radical scavenging and cytoprotective capabilities, after oral administration to humans, and its effect on biomarkers of oxidative damage and inflammation. RESULTS After oral administration, ET is avidly absorbed and retained by the body with significant elevations in plasma and whole blood concentrations, and relatively low urinary excretion (<4% of administered ET). ET levels in whole blood were highly correlated to levels of hercynine and S-methyl-ergothioneine, suggesting that they may be metabolites. After ET administration, some decreasing trends were seen in biomarkers of oxidative damage and inflammation, including allantoin (urate oxidation), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (DNA damage), 8-iso-PGF2α (lipid peroxidation), protein carbonylation, and C-reactive protein. However, most of the changes were non-significant. INNOVATION This is the first study investigating the administration of pure ET to healthy human volunteers and monitoring its uptake and pharmacokinetics. This compound is rapidly gaining attention due to its unique properties, and this study lays the foundation for future human studies. CONCLUSION The uptake and retention of ET by the body suggests an important physiological function. The decreasing trend of oxidative damage biomarkers is consistent with animal studies suggesting that ET may function as a major antioxidant but perhaps only under conditions of oxidative stress. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 26, 193-206.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irwin K Cheah
- 1 Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore .,3 Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Richard M Y Tang
- 1 Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore .,3 Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Terry S Z Yew
- 1 Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore .,3 Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Keith H C Lim
- 2 Department of Radiation Oncology, National University Cancer Institute Singapore, National University Hospital , Singapore
| | - Barry Halliwell
- 1 Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore , Singapore .,3 Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Halliwell B, Cheah IK, Drum CL. Ergothioneine, an adaptive antioxidant for the protection of injured tissues? A hypothesis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 470:245-250. [PMID: 26772879 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.12.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ergothioneine (ET) is a diet-derived, thiolated derivative of histidine with antioxidant properties. Although ET is produced only by certain fungi and bacteria, it can be found at high concentrations in certain human and animal tissues and is absorbed through a specific, high affinity transporter (OCTN1). In liver, heart, joint and intestinal injury, elevated ET concentrations have been observed in injured tissues. The physiological role of ET remains unclear. We thus review current literature to generate a specific hypothesis: that the accumulation of ET in vivo is an adaptive mechanism, involving the regulated uptake and concentration of an exogenous natural compound to minimize oxidative damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Halliwell
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Irwin K Cheah
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chester L Drum
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, National University Health System, Singapore; Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Translational Laboratory in Genetic Medicine, 8A Biomedical Grove, Immunos, Level 5, 138648, Singapore
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