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Han Y, Zeng X, Hua L, Quan X, Chen Y, Zhou M, Chuang Y, Li Y, Wang S, Shen X, Wei L, Yuan Z, Zhao Y. The fusion of multi-omics profile and multimodal EEG data contributes to the personalized diagnostic strategy for neurocognitive disorders. MICROBIOME 2024; 12:12. [PMID: 38243335 PMCID: PMC10797890 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01717-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing prevalence of neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) in the aging population worldwide has become a significant concern due to subjectivity of evaluations and the lack of precise diagnostic methods and specific indicators. Developing personalized diagnostic strategies for NCDs has therefore become a priority. RESULTS Multimodal electroencephalography (EEG) data of a matched cohort of normal aging (NA) and NCDs seniors were recorded, and their faecal samples and urine exosomes were collected to identify multi-omics signatures and metabolic pathways in NCDs by integrating metagenomics, proteomics, and metabolomics analysis. Additionally, experimental verification of multi-omics signatures was carried out in aged mice using faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). We found that NCDs seniors had low EEG power spectral density and identified specific microbiota, including Ruminococcus gnavus, Enterocloster bolteae, Lachnoclostridium sp. YL 32, and metabolites, including L-tryptophan, L-glutamic acid, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs), as well as disturbed biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids and TCA cycle dysfunction, validated in aged mice. Finally, we employed a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm to construct a machine learning model to classify NA and NCDs groups based on the fusion of EEG data and multi-omics profiles and the model demonstrated 92.69% accuracy in classifying NA and NCDs groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the potential of multi-omics profiling and EEG data fusion in personalized diagnosis of NCDs, with the potential to improve diagnostic precision and provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of NCDs. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Han
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Xinglin Zeng
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Lin Hua
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Xingping Quan
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ying Chen
- School of Health Economics and Management, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Manfei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | | | - Yang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Shengpeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Xu Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Target and Drug for Degenerative Diseases, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Lai Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhen Yuan
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China.
| | - Yonghua Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, 999078, Macau SAR, China.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR 999078, China.
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Manful EE, Dofuor AK, Gwira TM. The role of tryptophan derivatives as anti-kinetoplastid agents. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23895. [PMID: 38187297 PMCID: PMC10770616 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Kinetoplastids are the causative agents for a spectrum of vector-borne diseases including Leishmaniasis, Chagas disease and Trypanosomiasis that affect millions of people worldwide. In the absence of safe and effective vaccines, chemotherapy, in conjunction with vector control, remain the most significant control approach for kinetoplastid diseases. However, commercially available treatment for these neglected tropical diseases frequently ends up with toxic side effects and increasing resistance. To meet the rising need for innovative medications, alternative chemotherapeutic agents are required. Moreover, insights into target-based mode of action of chemotherapeutic agents are required if novel drugs that may outwit resistance to commercially available drugs are to be developed. Tryptophan has been implicated in a variety of diseases and disorders due to its fundamental role as a precursor to several bioactive metabolites, as well as its importance in the improvement of health and nutrition, diagnostics, and therapeutics. The regulation of tryptophan metabolism plays a fundamental role in the growth of kinetoplastids. Moreover, the levels of tryptophan may serve as a biomarker to distinguish between the stages of kinetoplastids making it an important amino acid to explore for drug targets. The main aim of this review is thus to provide a comprehensive literature synthesis of tryptophan derivatives to explore as potential anti-kinetoplastids. Here we highlight the role of tryptophan derivatives as chemotherapeutic agents against kinetoplastids. The reviewed compounds provide insights into potential new drug interventions that may combat the increasing problem of anti-kinetoplastid resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewura-Esi Manful
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Aboagye Kwarteng Dofuor
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
| | - Theresa Manful Gwira
- West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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Pathak S, Nadar R, Kim S, Liu K, Govindarajulu M, Cook P, Watts Alexander CS, Dhanasekaran M, Moore T. The Influence of Kynurenine Metabolites on Neurodegenerative Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:853. [PMID: 38255925 PMCID: PMC10815839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020853] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
As the kynurenine pathway's links to inflammation, the immune system, and neurological disorders became more apparent, it attracted more and more attention. It is the main pathway through which the liver breaks down Tryptophan and the initial step in the creation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in mammals. Immune system activation and the buildup of potentially neurotoxic substances can result from the dysregulation or overactivation of this pathway. Therefore, it is not shocking that kynurenines have been linked to neurological conditions (Depression, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Huntington's Disease, Schizophrenia, and cognitive deficits) in relation to inflammation. Nevertheless, preclinical research has demonstrated that kynurenines are essential components of the behavioral analogs of depression and schizophrenia-like cognitive deficits in addition to mediators associated with neurological pathologies due to their neuromodulatory qualities. Neurodegenerative diseases have been extensively associated with neuroactive metabolites of the kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan breakdown. In addition to being a necessary amino acid for protein synthesis, Tryptophan is also transformed into the important neurotransmitters tryptamine and serotonin in higher eukaryotes. In this article, a summary of the KP, its function in neurodegeneration, and the approaches being used currently to target the route therapeutically are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhrud Pathak
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Rishi Nadar
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Shannon Kim
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Keyi Liu
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Manoj Govindarajulu
- Blast-Induced Neurotrauma Branch, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Preston Cook
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | | | - Muralikrishnan Dhanasekaran
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Timothy Moore
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
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du Toit WL, Kruger R, Gafane-Matemane LF, Schutte AE, Louw R, Mels CMC. Markers of arterial stiffness and urinary metabolomics in young adults with early cardiovascular risk: the African-PREDICT study. Metabolomics 2023; 19:28. [PMID: 36988718 PMCID: PMC10060307 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-023-01987-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Increased exposure to risk factors in the young and healthy contributes to arterial changes, which may be accompanied by an altered metabolism. OBJECTIVES To increase our understanding of early metabolic alterations and how they associate with markers of arterial stiffness, we profiled urinary metabolites in young adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor(s) and in a control group without CVD risk factors. METHODS We included healthy black and white women and men (N = 1202), aged 20-30 years with a detailed CVD risk factor profile, reflecting obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, masked hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and low socio-economic status, forming the CVD risk group (N = 1036) and the control group (N = 166). Markers of arterial stiffness, central systolic blood pressure (BP) and pulse wave velocity were measured. A targeted metabolomics approach was followed by measuring amino acids and acylcarnitines using a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. RESULTS In the CVD risk group, central systolic BP (adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity) was negatively associated with histidine, arginine, asparagine, serine, glutamine, dimethylglycine, threonine, GABA, proline, methionine, pyroglutamic acid, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) and butyrylcarnitine (all P ≤ 0.048). In the same group, pulse wave velocity (adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, mean arterial pressure) was negatively associated with histidine, lysine, threonine, 2-aminoadipic acid, BCAAs and aromatic amino acids (AAAs) (all P ≤ 0.044). In the control group, central systolic BP was negatively associated with pyroglutamic acid, glutamic acid and dodecanoylcarnitine (all P ≤ 0.033). CONCLUSION In a group with increased CVD risk, markers of arterial stiffness were negatively associated with metabolites related to AAA and BCAA as well as energy metabolism and oxidative stress. Our findings may suggest that metabolic adaptations may be at play in response to increased CVD risk to maintain cardiovascular integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wessel L du Toit
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART), North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Ruan Kruger
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART), North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
- MRC Research Unit for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Lebo F Gafane-Matemane
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART), North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
- MRC Research Unit for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Aletta E Schutte
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART), North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
- MRC Research Unit for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Roan Louw
- Human Metabolomics, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Catharina M C Mels
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART), North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
- MRC Research Unit for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
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Tryptophan and Substance Abuse: Mechanisms and Impact. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032737. [PMID: 36769059 PMCID: PMC9917371 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032737] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Addiction, the continuous misuse of addictive material, causes long-term dysfunction in the neurological system. It substantially affects the control strength of reward, memory, and motivation. Addictive substances (alcohol, marijuana, caffeine, heroin, methamphetamine (METH), and nicotine) are highly active central nervous stimulants. Addiction leads to severe health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, serious infections, and pulmonary/dental diseases. Drug dependence may result in unfavorable cognitive impairments that can continue during abstinence and negatively influence recovery performance. Although addiction is a critical global health challenge with numerous consequences and complications, currently, there are no efficient options for treating drug addiction, particularly METH. Currently, novel treatment approaches such as psychological contingency management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational enhancement strategies are of great interest. Herein, we evaluate the devastating impacts of different addictive substances/drugs on users' mental health and the role of tryptophan in alleviating unfavorable side effects. The tryptophan metabolites in the mammalian brain and their potential to treat compulsive abuse of addictive substances are investigated by assessing the functional effects of addictive substances on tryptophan. Future perspectives on developing promising modalities to treat addiction and the role of tryptophan and its metabolites to alleviate drug dependency are discussed.
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Abdulrahman Alrabiah N, Simintiras CA, Evans ACO, Lonergan P, Fair T. Biochemical alterations in the follicular fluid of bovine peri-ovulatory follicles and association with final oocyte maturation. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 4:RAF-22-0090. [PMID: 36547396 PMCID: PMC9874974 DOI: 10.1530/raf-22-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular fluid (FF), a product of vascular transudate and granulosa and thecal cell secretions, is the milieu that has evolved to support oocyte growth and maturation which plays a central role in oocyte quality determination. Therefore, a suboptimal FF composition may be reflected in compromised oocyte progression through maturation, fertilization or embryo development. To date, the composition of bovine FF remains understudied. To address this, we comprehensively characterized the metabolomic constituency of bovine FF in the period during which the oocyte undergoes meiotic maturation. More specifically, FF from pre (-24 h) and peri (-2 h) -ovulatory follicles was profiled by high-throughput untargeted ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy. A total of 634 metabolites were identified, comprising: lipids (37.1%), amino acids (30.0%), xenobiotics (11.5%), nucleotides (6.8%), carbohydrates (4.4%), cofactors and vitamins (4.4%), peptides (3.6%) and energy substrates (2.1%). The concentrations of 67 metabolites were significantly affected by stage of follicle development, 33.3% (n=21) were reduced (P≤0.05) by a mean of 9.0-fold, whereas 46 were elevated (P≤0.05) by a mean of 1.7-fold in peri vs. pre -ovulatory FF. The most pronounced individual metabolite concentration decreases were hypoxanthine (98.9-fold), xanthine (65.7-fold), 17β-oestradiol (12.4-fold), and inosine (4.6-fold). In contrast, the greatest increases were in retinal (4.9-fold), 1-methyl-5-imidazoleacetate (2.7-fold), and isovalerylcarnitine (2.7-fold). This global metabolomic analysis of bovine FF temporal dynamics provides new information for understanding the environment supporting oocyte maturation and facilitating ovulation, that has the potential for improving oocyte quality both in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noof Abdulrahman Alrabiah
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Ireland
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Constantine A Simintiras
- School of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | | | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Ireland
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7
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Badawy AB. Tryptophan metabolism and disposition in cancer biology and immunotherapy. Biosci Rep 2022; 42:BSR20221682. [PMID: 36286592 PMCID: PMC9653095 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20221682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumours utilise tryptophan (Trp) and its metabolites to promote their growth and evade host defences. They recruit Trp through up-regulation of Trp transporters, and up-regulate key enzymes of Trp degradation and down-regulate others. Thus, Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), IDO2, N'-formylkynurenine formamidase (FAMID) and Kyn aminotransferase 1 (KAT1) are all up-regulated in many cancer types, whereas Kyn monooxygenase (KMO), kynureninase (KYNU), 2-amino-3-carboxymuconic acid-6-semialdehyde decarboxylase (ACMSD) and quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase (QPRT) are up-regulated in a few, but down-regulated in many, cancers. This results in accumulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand kynurenic acid and in depriving the host of NAD+ by blocking its synthesis from quinolinic acid. The host loses more NAD+ by up-regulation of the NAD+-consuming poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) and the protein acetylaters SIRTs. The nicotinamide arising from PARP and SIRT activation can be recycled in tumours to NAD+ by the up-regulated key enzymes of the salvage pathway. Up-regulation of the Trp transporters SLC1A5 and SLC7A5 is associated mostly with that of TDO2 = FAMID > KAT1 > IDO2 > IDO1. Tumours down-regulate enzymes of serotonin synthesis, thereby removing competition for Trp from the serotonin pathway. Strategies for combating tumoral immune escape could involve inhibition of Trp transport into tumours, inhibition of TDO and IDOs, inhibition of FAMID, inhibition of KAT and KYNU, inhibition of NMPRT and NMNAT, inhibition of the AhR, IL-4I1, PARPs and SIRTs, and by decreasing plasma free Trp availability to tumours by albumin infusion or antilipolytic agents and inhibition of glucocorticoid induction of TDO by glucocorticoid antagonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A.-B. Badawy
- Formerly School of Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, U.K
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Badawy AAB, Guillemin GJ. Species Differences in Tryptophan Metabolism and Disposition. Int J Tryptophan Res 2022; 15:11786469221122511. [PMID: 36325027 PMCID: PMC9620070 DOI: 10.1177/11786469221122511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Major species differences in tryptophan (Trp) metabolism and disposition exist
with important physiological, functional and toxicity implications. Unlike
mammalian and other species in which plasma Trp exists largely bound to albumin,
teleosts and other aquatic species possess little or no albumin, such that Trp
entry into their tissues is not hampered, neither is that of environmental
chemicals and toxins, hence the need for strict measures to safeguard their
aquatic environments. In species sensitive to toxicity of excess Trp, hepatic
Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) lacks the free apoenzyme and its glucocorticoid
induction mechanism. These species, which are largely herbivorous, however,
dispose of Trp more rapidly and their TDO is activated by smaller doses of Trp
than Trp-tolerant species. In general, sensitive species may possess a higher
indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity which equips them to resist immune
insults up to a point. Of the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway beyond TDO and
IDO, 2-amino-3-carboxymuconic acid-6-semialdehyde decarboxylase (ACMSD)
determines the extent of progress of the pathway towards NAD+
synthesis and its activity varies across species, with the domestic cat
(Felis catus) being the leading species possessing the
highest activity, hence its inability to utilise Trp for NAD+
synthesis. The paucity of current knowledge of Trp metabolism and disposition in
wild carnivores, invertebrates and many other animal species described here
underscores the need for further studies of the physiology of these species and
its interaction with Trp metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A-B Badawy
- Formerly School of Health Sciences,
Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, Wales, UK,Abdulla A-B Badawy, Formerly School of
Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff,
Wales, CF5 2YB, UK.
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, MND Research
Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia
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Lockwood MB, Fischer MJ, Silva K, Contreras BN, Zamora G, Goldstein A, Meinel M, Holden C, Lash J, Steffens A, Doorenbos A. Acceptability and feasibility of fecal microBIOME and serum metabolite sample collection in people with end-stage kidney disease and pain being treated with HemoDialysis: A pilot study (BIOME-HDp). Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 29:100995. [PMID: 36105265 PMCID: PMC9464895 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.100995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is known to reduce hemodialysis treatment adherence, reduce quality of life, and increase mortality. The absence of effective strategies to treat pain without medications has contributed to poor health outcomes for people with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) on hemodialysis. It is now recognized that symbiotic microbiota in the gut play a critical role in health and disease, and new evidence sheds light on the role of the microbiome in chronic pain. The pilot study protocol presented here (BIOME-HDp) employs a longitudinal repeated measures design to interrogate the effects of a nonpharmacological pain intervention on the composition and function of the gut microbiome and circulating metabolites. This pilot study is an ancillary study of the HOPE Consortium Trial to reduce pain and opioid use in hemodialysis, which is part of the NIH's Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) initiative. The BIOME-HDp pilot study will establish clinical microbiome research methods and determine the acceptability and feasibility of fecal microbiome and serum metabolite sample collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B. Lockwood
- Department of Behavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael J. Fischer
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences Center, Medical Service, Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Health Care, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kimberly Silva
- College of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Blanca N. Contreras
- College of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Guillermo Zamora
- College of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amanda Goldstein
- College of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Monya Meinel
- College of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christopher Holden
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois College of Medicine, UI Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James Lash
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alana Steffens
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ardith Doorenbos
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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An Emerging Cross-Species Marker for Organismal Health: Tryptophan-Kynurenine Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116300. [PMID: 35682980 PMCID: PMC9181223 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan (TRP) is an essential dietary amino acid that, unless otherwise committed to protein synthesis, undergoes metabolism via the Tryptophan-Kynurenine (TRP-KYN) pathway in vertebrate organisms. TRP and its metabolites have key roles in diverse physiological processes including cell growth and maintenance, immunity, disease states and the coordination of adaptive responses to environmental and dietary cues. Changes in TRP metabolism can alter the availability of TRP for protein and serotonin biosynthesis as well as alter levels of the immune-active KYN pathway metabolites. There is now considerable evidence which has shown that the TRP-KYN pathway can be influenced by various stressors including glucocorticoids (marker of chronic stress), infection, inflammation and oxidative stress, and environmental toxicants. While there is little known regarding the role of TRP metabolism following exposure to environmental contaminants, there is evidence of linkages between chemically induced metabolic perturbations and altered TRP enzymes and KYN metabolites. Moreover, the TRP-KYN pathway is conserved across vertebrate species and can be influenced by exposure to xenobiotics, therefore, understanding how this pathway is regulated may have broader implications for environmental and wildlife toxicology. The goal of this narrative review is to (1) identify key pathways affecting Trp-Kyn metabolism in vertebrates and (2) highlight consequences of altered tryptophan metabolism in mammals, birds, amphibians, and fish. We discuss current literature available across species, highlight gaps in the current state of knowledge, and further postulate that the kynurenine to tryptophan ratio can be used as a novel biomarker for assessing organismal and, more broadly, ecosystem health.
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Inflammation and serotonin deficiency in major depressive disorder: Molecular docking of antidepressant and antiinflammatory drugs to tryptophan and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenases. Biosci Rep 2022; 42:231266. [PMID: 35506370 PMCID: PMC9142829 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20220426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The roles of the kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan (Trp) degradation in serotonin deficiency in major depressive disorder (MDD) and the associated inflammatory state are considered in the present study. Using molecular docking in silico, we demonstrate binding of antidepressants to the crystal structure of tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), but not to indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). TDO is inhibited by a wide range of antidepressant drugs. The rapidly acting antidepressant ketamine does not dock to either enzyme, but may act by inhibiting kynurenine monooxygenase thereby antagonising glutamatergic activation to normalise serotonin function. Antidepressants with antiinflammatory properties are unlikely to act by direct inhibition of IDO, but may inhibit IDO induction by lowering levels of proinflammatory cytokines in immune-activated patients. Of 6 antiinflammatory drugs tested, only salicylate docks strongly to TDO and apart from celecoxib, the other 5 dock to IDO. TDO inhibition remains the major common property of antidepressants and TDO induction the most likely mechanism of defective serotonin synthesis in MDD. TDO inhibition and increased free Trp availability by salicylate may underpin the antidepressant effect of aspirin and distinguish it from other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. The controversial findings with IDO in MDD patients with an inflammatory state can be explained by IDO induction being overridden by changes in subsequent KP enzymes influencing glutamatergic function. The pathophysiology of MDD may be underpinned by the interaction of serotonergic and glutamatergic activities.
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Sharma VK, Singh TG, Prabhakar NK, Mannan A. Kynurenine Metabolism and Alzheimer's Disease: The Potential Targets and Approaches. Neurochem Res 2022; 47:1459-1476. [PMID: 35133568 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03546-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid, regulates protein homeostasis and plays a role in neurotransmitter-mediated physiological events. It also influences age-associated neurological alterations and neurodegenerative changes. The metabolism of tryptophan is carried majorly through the kynurenine route, leading to the production of several pharmacologically active enzymes, substrates, and metabolites. These metabolites and enzymes influence a variety of physiological and pathological outcomes of the majority of systems, including endocrine, haemopoietic, gastrointestinal, immunomodulatory, inflammatory, bioenergetic metabolism, and neuronal functions. An extensive literature review of PubMed, Medline, Bentham, Scopus, and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases was carried out to understand the nature of the extensive work done on the kynurenine metabolites that influence cellular redox potential, immunoregulatory mechanisms, inflammatory pathways, cell survival channels, and cellular communication in close association with several neurodegenerative changes. The imbalanced state of kynurenine pathways has found a close association to several pathological disorders, including HIV infections, cancer, autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative and neurological disorders including Parkinson's disease, epilepsy and has found special attention in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Kynurenine pathway (KP) is intricately linked to AD pathogenesis owing to the influence of kynurenine metabolites on excitotoxic neurotransmission, oxidative stress, uptake of neurotransmitters, and modulation of neuroinflammation, amyloid aggregation, microtubule disruption, and their ability to induce a state of dysbiosis. Pharmacological modulation of KP pathways has shown encouraging results, indicating that it may be a viable and explorable target for the therapy of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Kumar Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
- Govt. College of Pharmacy, Rohru, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171207, India
| | - Thakur Gurjeet Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India.
| | | | - Ashi Mannan
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
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13
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Yeung KTD, Penney N, Whiley L, Ashrafian H, Lewis MR, Purkayastha S, Darzi A, Holmes E. The impact of bariatric surgery on serum tryptophan-kynurenine pathway metabolites. Sci Rep 2022; 12:294. [PMID: 34996930 PMCID: PMC8741964 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03833-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to explore the immediate effects of bariatric surgery on serum tryptophan–kynurenine pathway metabolites in individuals with type 2 diabetes and BMI > 30. With the goal of providing insight into the link between tryptophan pathway metabolites, type 2 diabetes, and chronic obesity-induced inflammation. This longitudinal study included 20 participants. Half were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. 11 and 9 underwent RYGB and SG respectively. Blood samples were obtained at pre-operative and 3 months post-operative timepoints. Tryptophan and downstream metabolites of the kynurenine pathway were quantified with an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionisation method. At 3 months post-operation, RYGB led to significant reductions in tryptophan, kynurenic acid and xanthurenic acid levels when compared to baseline. Significant reductions of the same metabolites after surgery were also observed in individuals with T2D irrespective of surgical procedure. These metabolites were significantly correlated with serum HbA1c levels and BMI. Bariatric surgery, in particular RYGB reduces serum levels of tryptophan and its downstream kynurenine metabolites. These metabolites are associated with T2D and thought to be potentially mechanistic in the systemic processes of obesity induced inflammation leading to insulin resistance. Its reduction after surgery is associated with an improvement in glycaemic control (HbA1c).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Tai Derek Yeung
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Penney
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Luke Whiley
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK.,Australian National Phenome Centre & Centre for Computational & Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Hutan Ashrafian
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Matthew R Lewis
- National Phenome Centre, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK.,Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Sanjay Purkayastha
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Ara Darzi
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | - Elaine Holmes
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK. .,Australian National Phenome Centre & Centre for Computational & Systems Medicine, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.
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14
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Hypoxia and the Kynurenine Pathway: Implications and Therapeutic Prospects in Alzheimer's Disease. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:5522981. [PMID: 34804368 PMCID: PMC8598363 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5522981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) like Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease predominantly pose a significant socioeconomic burden. Characterized by progressive neural dysfunction coupled with motor or intellectual impairment, the pathogenesis of ND may result from contributions of certain environmental and molecular factors. One such condition is hypoxia, characterized by reduced organ/tissue exposure to oxygen. Reduced oxygen supply often occurs during the pathogenesis of ND and the aging process. Despite the well-established relationship between these two conditions (i.e., hypoxia and ND), the underlying molecular events or mechanisms connecting hypoxia to ND remain ill-defined. However, the relatedness may stem from the protective or deleterious effects of the transcription factor, hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α). The upregulation of HIF-1α occurs in the pathogenesis of most NDs. The dual function of HIF-1α in acting as a "killer factor" or a "protective factor" depends on the prevailing local cellular condition. The kynurenine pathway is a metabolic pathway involved in the oxidative breakdown of tryptophan. It is essential in neurotransmission and immune function and, like hypoxia, associated with ND. Thus, a good understanding of factors, including hypoxia (i.e., the biochemical implication of HIF-1α) and kynurenine pathway activation in NDs, focusing on Alzheimer's disease could prove beneficial to new therapeutic approaches for this disease, thus the aim of this review.
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15
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Wee HN, Liu JJ, Ching J, Kovalik JP, Lim SC. The Kynurenine Pathway in Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease. Am J Nephrol 2021; 52:771-787. [PMID: 34753140 PMCID: PMC8743908 DOI: 10.1159/000519811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the major catabolic pathway for tryptophan degradation. The KP plays an important role as the sole de novo nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) biosynthetic pathway in normal human physiology and functions as a counter-regulatory mechanism to mitigate immune responses during inflammation. Although the KP has been implicated in a variety of disorders including Huntington's disease, seizures, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis, its role in renal diseases is seldom discussed. SUMMARY This review summarizes the roles of the KP and its metabolites in acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) based on current literature evidence. Metabolomics studies demonstrated that the KP metabolites were significantly altered in patients and animal models with AKI or CKD. The diagnostic and prognostic values of the KP metabolites in AKI and CKD were highlighted in cross-sectional and longitudinal human observational studies. The biological impact of the KP on the pathophysiology of AKI and CKD has been studied in experimental models of different etiologies. In particular, the activation of the KP was found to confer protection in animal models of glomerulonephritis, and its immunomodulatory mechanism may involve the regulation of T cell subsets such as Th17 and regulatory T cells. Manipulation of the KP to increase NAD+ production or diversion toward specific KP metabolites was also found to be beneficial in animal models of AKI. Key Messages: KP metabolites are reported to be dysregulated in human observational and animal experimental studies of AKI and CKD. In AKI, the magnitude and direction of changes in the KP depend on the etiology of the damage. In CKD, KP metabolites are altered with the onset and progression of CKD all the way to advanced stages of the disease, including uremia and its related vascular complications. The activation of the KP and diversion to specific sub-branches are currently being explored as therapeutic strategies in these diseases, especially with regards to the immunomodulatory effects of certain KP metabolites. Further elucidation of the KP may hold promise for the development of biomarkers and targeted therapies for these kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jian-Jun Liu
- Clinical Research Unit, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jianhong Ching
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- KK Research Centre, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Su Chi Lim
- Clinical Research Unit, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Diabetes Centre, Admiralty Medical Centre, Singapore, Singapore
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16
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The effects of high-monosaccharide diets on development and biochemical composition of white-eyed mutant strain of house cricket (Acheta domesticus). Sci Rep 2021; 11:21147. [PMID: 34707140 PMCID: PMC8551166 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00393-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan (TRP) is one of the essential amino acids in the animal body. Its exogenicity and low concentrations mean that it can be regarded as one of the key regulatory molecules at the cellular as well as physiological level. It has been shown to have a number of essential functions, such as in the production of other biologically active molecules. The main objective of this project was to investigate the effects of a high monosaccharide diet (HMD) on a hemimetabolic insect-house cricket (Acheta domesticus) and a mutant strain with impaired visual pigment synthesis (closely related to the tryptophan and kynurenine (KYN) metabolic pathway)-white eye. This study was aimed at determining the effects of glucose and fructose on cricket development and biochemical composition. A parallel goal was to compare the response of both cricket strains to HMD. ELISA assays indicated dysfunction of the TRP-KYN pathway in white strain insects and an elevated KYN/TRP ratio. Biochemical analyses demonstrated the effects of HMD mainly on fat and glycogen content. A decrease in food intake was also observed in the groups on HMD. However, no changes in imago body weight and water content were observed. The results of the study indicate a stronger response of the white strain to HMD compared to the wild-type strain. At the same time, a stronger detrimental effect of fructose than of glucose was apparent. Sex was found to be a modulating factor in the response to HMD.
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17
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Oluwagbemigun K, Anesi A, Clarke G, Schmid M, Mattivi F, Nöthlings U. An Investigation into the Temporal Reproducibility of Tryptophan Metabolite Networks Among Healthy Adolescents. Int J Tryptophan Res 2021; 14:11786469211041376. [PMID: 34594109 PMCID: PMC8477685 DOI: 10.1177/11786469211041376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan and its bioactive metabolites are associated with health conditions such as systemic inflammation, cardiometabolic diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. There are dynamic interactions among metabolites of tryptophan. The interactions between metabolites, particularly those that are strong and temporally reproducible could be of pathophysiological relevance. Using a targeted metabolomics approach, the concentration levels of tryptophan and 18 of its metabolites across multiple pathways was quantified in 24-hours urine samples at 2 time-points, age 17 years (baseline) and 18 years (follow-up) from 132 (52% female) apparently healthy adolescent participants of the DOrtmund Nutritional and Anthropometric Longitudinally Designed (DONALD) Study. In sex-specific analyses, we applied 2 network approaches, the Gaussian graphical model and Bayesian network to (1) explore the network structure for both time-points, (2) retrieve strongly related metabolites, and (3) determine whether the strongly related metabolites were temporally reproducible. Independent of selected covariates, the 2 network approaches revealed 5 associations that were strong and temporally reproducible. These were novel relationships, between kynurenic acid and indole-3-acetic acid in females and between kynurenic acid and xanthurenic acid in males, as well as known relationships between kynurenine and 3-hydroxykynurenine, and between 3-hydroxykynurenine and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid in females and between tryptophan and kynurenine in males. Overall, this epidemiological study using network-based approaches shed new light into tryptophan metabolism, particularly the interaction of host and microbial metabolites. The 5 observed relationships suggested the existence of a temporally stable pattern of tryptophan and 6 metabolites in healthy adolescent, which could be further investigated in search of fingerprints of specific physiological states. The metabolites in these relationships may represent a multi-biomarker panel that could be informative for health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kolade Oluwagbemigun
- Nutritional Epidemiology, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Andrea Anesi
- Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all’Adige, Italy
| | - Gerard Clarke
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Ireland
- INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Matthias Schmid
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Fulvio Mattivi
- Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, San Michele all’Adige, Italy
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology – CIBIO, University of Trento, San Michele all’Adige, Italy
| | - Ute Nöthlings
- Nutritional Epidemiology, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Bonn, Germany
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18
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Peralta-Marzal LN, Prince N, Bajic D, Roussin L, Naudon L, Rabot S, Garssen J, Kraneveld AD, Perez-Pardo P. The Impact of Gut Microbiota-Derived Metabolites in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10052. [PMID: 34576216 PMCID: PMC8470471 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by behavioural impairment and deficiencies in social interaction and communication. A recent study estimated that 1 in 89 children have developed some form of ASD in European countries. Moreover, there is no specific treatment and since ASD is not a single clinical entity, the identification of molecular biomarkers for diagnosis remains challenging. Besides behavioural deficiencies, individuals with ASD often develop comorbid medical conditions including intestinal problems, which may reflect aberrations in the bidirectional communication between the brain and the gut. The impact of faecal microbial composition in brain development and behavioural functions has been repeatedly linked to ASD, as well as changes in the metabolic profile of individuals affected by ASD. Since metabolism is one of the major drivers of microbiome-host interactions, this review aims to report emerging literature showing shifts in gut microbiota metabolic function in ASD. Additionally, we discuss how these changes may be involved in and/or perpetuate ASD pathology. These valuable insights can help us to better comprehend ASD pathogenesis and may provide relevant biomarkers for improving diagnosis and identifying new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía N. Peralta-Marzal
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.P.); (J.G.); (A.D.K.)
| | - Naika Prince
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.P.); (J.G.); (A.D.K.)
| | - Djordje Bajic
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA;
- Microbial Sciences Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Léa Roussin
- Micalis Institute, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (L.R.); (S.R.)
| | - Laurent Naudon
- CNRS, Micalis Institute, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France;
| | - Sylvie Rabot
- Micalis Institute, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (L.R.); (S.R.)
| | - Johan Garssen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.P.); (J.G.); (A.D.K.)
- Danone Nutricia Research, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aletta D. Kraneveld
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.P.); (J.G.); (A.D.K.)
| | - Paula Perez-Pardo
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (N.P.); (J.G.); (A.D.K.)
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Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptors in Indole Derivative Treated Mice: Neuropharmacological Perspectives. ACTA MEDICA BULGARICA 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/amb-2021-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Aim/objective. When applied in pharmacological doses, the indole derivative melatonin exhibits neuroactive and neuroprotective effects. Indoles and their metabolites, such as kynurenine, are ligands of aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhR). This study aimed to evaluate the antiepileptic and analgesic activity of melatonin and two synthetic melatonin derivatives. The possible involvement of AhR and kynurenine in their neuropharmacological effects were also tested.
Methods. The tested substances were: melatonin, two melatonin derivatives bearing aryl hydrocarbon moiety with either furyl or thienyl substitute (3e and 3f), and alpha naphthoflavone (ANF), an antagonist of AhR. After intraperitoneal injection of 30, 100, or 300 mg/kg of the tested agents for seven days, male mice ICR (25-30 g) were subjected to a corneal kindling seizure model. Two tests for analgesia, i.e., the hot plate test and the formalin test, were also applied. AhR and kynurenine concentrations were evaluated in brain homogenates.
Results. Substances 3e and 3f demonstrated an antiepileptic activity comparable to that of melatonin. Some analgesic activity was also shown, albeit lower than that of melatonin in equivalent doses. For melatonin and 3f treated mice, dose-dependent increases in AhR and kynurenine levels in brain homogenates were recorded. The antagonist ANF neither blocks the antiseizure activity of the tested indoles, nor demonstrated analgesic activity.
Conclusion. Melatonin and the two tested melatonin-aroylhydrazone derivatives bearing either furyl or thienyl substitute exhibit antiepileptic and analgesic activity. Our results did not support the involvement of AhR in the demonstrated neurobiological activity. Further studies are needed to elucidate their exact molecular mechanisms.
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Zhou R, He D, Xie J, Zhou Q, Zeng H, Li H, Huang L. The Synergistic Effects of Polysaccharides and Ginsenosides From American Ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius L.) Ameliorating Cyclophosphamide-Induced Intestinal Immune Disorders and Gut Barrier Dysfunctions Based on Microbiome-Metabolomics Analysis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:665901. [PMID: 33968068 PMCID: PMC8100215 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.665901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CTX), used in cancer chemotherapy, a high dose of which would cause immunosuppressive effect and intestinal mucosa damage. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) has a long history of functional food use for immunological disorder, colitis, cancer, and so on. This study aimed to illustrate the underlying mechanism of American ginseng’s immunomodulatory effect in CTX-induced mice. In this study, all groups of American ginseng (American ginseng polysaccharide [AGP], American ginseng ginsenoside [AGG], co-treated with American ginseng polysaccharide and ginsenoside [AGP_AGG]) have relieve the immune disorder by reversing the lymphocyte subsets ratio in spleen and peripheral blood, as well as stimulating CD4+T cells and IgA-secreting cells in small intestine. These three treatment groups, especially AGP_AGG co-treated group recovered the intestine morphology that up-regulated villus height (VH)/crypt depth (CD) ratio, areas of mucins expression, quantity of goblet cells, and expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin). Importantly, the microbiome-metabolomics analysis was applied in this study to illustrate the possible immuno-modulating mechanism. The synergistic effect of polysaccharides and ginsenosides (AGP_AGG group) restored the gut microbiota composition and increased various beneficial mucosa-associated bacterial taxa Clostridiales, Bifidobacterium, and Lachnospiraceae, while decreased harmful bacteria Escherichia-Shigella and Peptococcaceae. Also, AGP_AGG group altered various fecal metabolites such as uric acid, xanthurenic acid, acylcarnitine, 9,10-DHOME, 13-HDoHE, LysoPE15:0, LysoPC 16:0, LysoPI 18:0, and so on, that associated with immunometabolism or protective effect of gut barrier. These results suggest AG, particularly co-treated of polysaccharide and ginsenoside may be used as immunostimulants targeting microbiome-metabolomics axis to prevent CTX-induced side effects in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China.,National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dan He
- Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Xie
- Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Qingyijun Zhou
- Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Hongliang Zeng
- Hunan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Hongmei Li
- Insitute of Chinese Materia, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Luqi Huang
- National Resource Center for Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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21
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Wyatt M, Greathouse KL. Targeting Dietary and Microbial Tryptophan-Indole Metabolism as Therapeutic Approaches to Colon Cancer. Nutrients 2021; 13:1189. [PMID: 33916690 PMCID: PMC8066279 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan metabolism, via the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway, and microbial transformation of tryptophan to indolic compounds are fundamental for host health; both of which are altered in colon carcinogenesis. Alterations in tryptophan metabolism begin early in colon carcinogenesis as an adaptive mechanism for the tumor to escape immune surveillance and metastasize. The microbial community is a key part of the tumor microenvironment and influences cancer initiation, promotion and treatment response. A growing awareness of the impact of the microbiome on tryptophan (Trp) metabolism in the context of carcinogenesis has prompted this review. We first compare the different metabolic pathways of Trp under normal cellular physiology to colon carcinogenesis, in both the host cells and the microbiome. Second, we review how the microbiome, specifically indoles, influence host tryptophan pathways under normal and oncogenic metabolism. We conclude by proposing several dietary, microbial and drug therapeutic modalities that can be utilized in combination to abrogate tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhur Wyatt
- Human Health, Performance and Recreation, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7346, USA;
| | - K. Leigh Greathouse
- Human Science and Design, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7346, USA
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22
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Cecchi M, Paccosi S, Silvano A, Eid AH, Parenti A. Dexamethasone Induces the Expression and Function of Tryptophan-2-3-Dioxygenase in SK-MEL-28 Melanoma Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14030211. [PMID: 33806305 PMCID: PMC7998133 DOI: 10.3390/ph14030211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) is one of the key tryptophan-catabolizing enzymes with immunoregulatory properties in cancer. Contrary to expectation, clinical trials showed that inhibitors of the ubiquitously expressed enzyme, indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1), do not provide benefits in melanoma patients. This prompted the hypothesis that TDO may be a more attractive target. Because the promoter of TDO harbors glucocorticoid response elements (GREs), we aimed to assess whether dexamethasone (dex), a commonly used glucocorticoid, modulates TDO expression by means of RT-PCR and immunofluorescence and function by assessing cell proliferation and migration as well as metalloproteinase activity. Our results show that, in SK-Mel-28 melanoma cells, dex up-regulated TDO and its downstream effector aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) but not IDO1. Furthermore, dex stimulated cellular proliferation and migration and potentiated MMP2 activity. These effects were inhibited by the selective TDO inhibitor 680C91 and enhanced by IDO1 inhibitors. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the metastatic melanoma cell line SK-Mel-28 possesses a functional TDO which can also modulate cancer cell phenotype directly rather than through immune suppression. Thus, TDO appears to be a promising, tractable target in the management or the treatment of melanoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Cecchi
- Department of Health Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology Section, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.C.); (S.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Sara Paccosi
- Department of Health Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology Section, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.C.); (S.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Angela Silvano
- Department of Health Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology Section, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.C.); (S.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Ali Hussein Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
- Correspondence: (A.H.E.); (A.P.); Tel.: +974-4403-7893 (A.H.E.)
| | - Astrid Parenti
- Department of Health Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology Section, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (M.C.); (S.P.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: (A.H.E.); (A.P.); Tel.: +974-4403-7893 (A.H.E.)
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23
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Bano S, Hamid SB, Sajid F, Sharif H. Gender-Based Effects of Chronic Nicotine Administration on Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal Axis and Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase Activity in Rats. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.32527/2021/101480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Samina Bano
- Clinical Biochemistry and Psychopharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi - 75270, Pakistan
| | - Sumaiya Binte Hamid
- Clinical Biochemistry and Psychopharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi - 75270, Pakistan
| | - Faiza Sajid
- Clinical Biochemistry and Psychopharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi - 75270, Pakistan
| | - Humaira Sharif
- Clinical Biochemistry and Psychopharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi - 75270, Pakistan
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24
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Badawy AB. Immunotherapy of COVID-19 with poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors: starting with nicotinamide. Biosci Rep 2020; 40:BSR20202856. [PMID: 33063092 PMCID: PMC7601349 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20202856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 induces a proinflammatory environment that is stronger in patients requiring intensive care. The cytokine components of this environment may determine efficacy or otherwise of glucocorticoid therapy. The immunity modulators, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and the nuclear NAD+-consuming enzyme poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP 1) may play a critical role in COVID-19 pathophysiology. The AhR is overexpressed in coronaviruses, including COVID-19 and, as it regulates PARP gene expression, the latter is likely to be activated in COVID-19. PARP 1 activation leads to cell death mainly by depletion of NAD+ and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), especially when availability of these energy mediators is compromised. PARP expression is enhanced in other lung conditions: the pneumovirus respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). I propose that PARP 1 activation is the terminal point in a sequence of events culminating in patient mortality and should be the focus of COVID-19 immunotherapy. Potent PARP 1 inhibitors are undergoing trials in cancer, but a readily available inhibitor, nicotinamide (NAM), which possesses a highly desirable biochemical and activity profile, merits exploration. It conserves NAD+ and prevents ATP depletion by PARP 1 and Sirtuin 1 (silent mating type information regulation 2 homologue 1) inhibition, enhances NAD+ synthesis, and hence that of NADP+ which is a stronger PARP inhibitor, reverses lung injury caused by ischaemia/reperfusion, inhibits proinflammatory cytokines and is effective against HIV infection. These properties qualify NAM for therapeutic use initially in conjunction with standard clinical care or combined with other agents, and subsequently as an adjunct to stronger PARP 1 inhibitors or other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A.-B. Badawy
- Formerly School of Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, Wales, U.K
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25
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Jena A, Montoya CA, Mullaney JA, Dilger RN, Young W, McNabb WC, Roy NC. Gut-Brain Axis in the Early Postnatal Years of Life: A Developmental Perspective. Front Integr Neurosci 2020; 14:44. [PMID: 32848651 PMCID: PMC7419604 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2020.00044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that alterations in the development of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract during the early postnatal period can influence brain development and vice-versa. It is increasingly recognized that communication between the GI tract and brain is mainly driven by neural, endocrine, immune, and metabolic mediators, collectively called the gut-brain axis (GBA). Changes in the GBA mediators occur in response to the developmental changes in the body during this period. This review provides an overview of major developmental events in the GI tract and brain in the early postnatal period and their parallel developmental trajectories under physiological conditions. Current knowledge of GBA mediators in context to brain function and behavioral outcomes and their synthesis and metabolism (site, timing, etc.) is discussed. This review also presents hypotheses on the role of the GBA mediators in response to the parallel development of the GI tract and brain in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Jena
- School of Food & Advanced Technology, College of Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Food Nutrition & Health, Grasslands Research Centre, AgResearch, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Carlos A Montoya
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Food Nutrition & Health, Grasslands Research Centre, AgResearch, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Jane A Mullaney
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Food Nutrition & Health, Grasslands Research Centre, AgResearch, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ryan N Dilger
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Wayne Young
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Food Nutrition & Health, Grasslands Research Centre, AgResearch, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Warren C McNabb
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nicole C Roy
- The Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge, Auckland, New Zealand.,Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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26
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Wu MH, Lin CN, Chiu DTY, Chen ST. Kynurenine/Tryptophan Ratio Predicts Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Responsiveness in Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10040207. [PMID: 32283658 PMCID: PMC7235821 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10040207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Albuminuria is a measurement and determinant factor for diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) is recommended for albuminuria in DKD with variable response. To find surrogate markers to predict the therapeutic effect of ARB, we carried out a prospective study to correlate plasma metabolites and the progression of renal function/albuminuria in DKD patients. A total of 56 type 2 diabetic patients with various stages of chronic kidney disease and albuminuria were recruited. ARB was prescribed once albuminuria was established. Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) was determined before and six months after ARB treatment, with a ≥30% reduction of UACR considered an ARB responder. Plasma levels of 145 metabolites were measured before ARB treatment; only those associated with albuminuria were selected and compared between ARB responders and non-responders. Both lower tryptophan (Trp ≤ 46.75 μmol/L) levels and a higher kynurenine/tryptophan ratio (KTR ≥ 68.5 × 10−3) were significantly associated with macroalbuminuria (MAU), but only KTR (≥54.7 × 10−3) predicts ARB responsiveness (sensitivity 90.0%, specificity 50%) in MAU. Together, these data suggest that the kynurenine/tryptophan ratio predicts angiotensin receptor blocker responsiveness in patients with diabetic kidney disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Hsien Wu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei City 236, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ni Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Branch, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Daniel Tsun-Yee Chiu
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Healthy Aging Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Tah Chen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3-3281200 (ext. 8821); Fax: +886-3-3288257
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27
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Moffett JR, Arun P, Puthillathu N, Vengilote R, Ives JA, Badawy AAB, Namboodiri AM. Quinolinate as a Marker for Kynurenine Metabolite Formation and the Unresolved Question of NAD + Synthesis During Inflammation and Infection. Front Immunol 2020; 11:31. [PMID: 32153556 PMCID: PMC7047773 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Quinolinate (Quin) is a classic example of a biochemical double-edged sword, acting as both essential metabolite and potent neurotoxin. Quin is an important metabolite in the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan catabolism leading to the de novo synthesis of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). As a precursor for NAD+, Quin can direct a portion of tryptophan catabolism toward replenishing cellular NAD+ levels in response to inflammation and infection. Intracellular Quin levels increase dramatically in response to immune stimulation [e.g., lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or pokeweed mitogen (PWM)] in macrophages, microglia, dendritic cells, and other cells of the immune system. NAD+ serves numerous functions including energy production, the poly ADP ribose polymerization (PARP) reaction involved in DNA repair, and the activity of various enzymes such as the NAD+-dependent deacetylases known as sirtuins. We used highly specific antibodies to protein-coupled Quin to delineate cells that accumulate Quin as a key aspect of the response to immune stimulation and infection. Here, we describe Quin staining in the brain, spleen, and liver after LPS administration to the brain or systemic PWM administration. Quin expression was strong in immune cells in the periphery after both treatments, whereas very limited Quin expression was observed in the brain even after direct LPS injection. Immunoreactive cells exhibited diverse morphology ranging from foam cells to cells with membrane extensions related to cell motility. We also examined protein expression changes in the spleen after kynurenine administration. Acute (8 h) and prolonged (48 h) kynurenine administration led to significant changes in protein expression in the spleen, including multiple changes involved with cytoskeletal rearrangements associated with cell motility. Kynurenine administration resulted in several expression level changes in proteins associated with heat shock protein 90 (HSP90), a chaperone for the aryl-hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which is the primary kynurenine metabolite receptor. We propose that cells with high levels of Quin are those that are currently releasing kynurenine pathway metabolites as well as accumulating Quin for sustained NAD+ synthesis from tryptophan. Further, we propose that the kynurenine pathway may be linked to the regulation of cell motility in immune and cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Moffett
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics and Neuroscience Program, Uniformed Services University Medical School, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Peethambaran Arun
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics and Neuroscience Program, Uniformed Services University Medical School, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Narayanan Puthillathu
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics and Neuroscience Program, Uniformed Services University Medical School, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Ranjini Vengilote
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics and Neuroscience Program, Uniformed Services University Medical School, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - John A Ives
- The Center for Brain, Mind, and Healing, Samueli Institute, Alexandria, VA, United States
| | | | - Aryan M Namboodiri
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics and Neuroscience Program, Uniformed Services University Medical School, Bethesda, MD, United States
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