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Büttner T, Maerevoet MKE, Giordano FA, Veldwijk MR, Herskind C, Ruder AM. Combining a noble gas with radiotherapy: glutamate receptor antagonist xenon may act as a radiosensitizer in glioblastoma. Radiat Oncol 2024; 19:16. [PMID: 38291439 PMCID: PMC10826195 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-023-02395-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ionotropic glutamate receptors α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) modulate proliferation, invasion and radioresistance in glioblastoma (GB). Pharmacological targeting is difficult as many in vitro-effective agents are not suitable for in patient applications. We aimed to develop a method to test the well tolerated AMPAR- and NMDAR-antagonist xenon gas as a radiosensitizer in GB. METHODS We designed a diffusion-based system to perform the colony formation assay (CFA), the radiobiological gold standard, under xenon exposure. Stable and reproducible gas atmosphere was validated with oxygen and carbon dioxide as tracer gases. After checking for AMPAR and NMDAR expression via immunofluorescence staining we performed the CFA with the glioblastoma cell lines U87 and U251 as well as the non-glioblastoma derived cell line HeLa. Xenon was applied after irradiation and additionally tested in combination with NMDAR antagonist memantine. RESULTS The gas exposure system proved compatible with the CFA and resulted in a stable atmosphere of 50% xenon. Indications for the presence of glutamate receptor subunits were present in glioblastoma-derived and HeLa cells. Significantly reduced clonogenic survival by xenon was shown in U87 and U251 at irradiation doses of 4-8 Gy and 2, 6 and 8 Gy, respectively (p < 0.05). Clonogenic survival was further reduced by the addition of memantine, showing a significant effect at 2-8 Gy for both glioblastoma cell lines (p < 0.05). Xenon did not significantly reduce the surviving fraction of HeLa cells until a radiation dose of 8 Gy. CONCLUSION The developed system allows for testing of gaseous agents with CFA. As a proof of concept, we have, for the first time, unveiled indications of radiosensitizing properties of xenon gas in glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Büttner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
- Clinic for Urology and Paediatric Urology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Marielena K E Maerevoet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frank A Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marlon R Veldwijk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carsten Herskind
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Arne Mathias Ruder
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
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Kumaria A, Ashkan K. Novel therapeutic strategies in glioma targeting glutamatergic neurotransmission. Brain Res 2023; 1818:148515. [PMID: 37543066 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
High grade gliomas carry a poor prognosis despite aggressive surgical and adjuvant approaches including chemoradiotherapy. Recent studies have demonstrated a mitogenic association between neuronal electrical activity and glioma growth involving the PI3K-mTOR pathway. As the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter of the brain, glutamate signalling in particular has been shown to promote glioma invasion and growth. The concept of the neurogliomal synapse has been established whereby glutamatergic receptors on glioma cells have been shown to promote tumour propagation. Targeting glutamatergic signalling is therefore a potential treatment option in glioma. Antiepileptic medications decrease excess neuronal electrical activity and some may possess anti-glutamate effects. Although antiepileptic medications continue to be investigated for an anti-glioma effect, good quality randomised trial evidence is lacking. Other pharmacological strategies that downregulate glutamatergic signalling include riluzole, memantine and anaesthetic agents. Neuromodulatory interventions possessing potential anti-glutamate activity include deep brain stimulation and vagus nerve stimulation - this contributes to the anti-seizure efficacy of the latter and the possible neuroprotective effect of the former. A possible role of neuromodulation as a novel anti-glioma modality has previously been proposed and that hypothesis is extended to include these modalities. Similarly, the significant survival benefit in glioblastoma attributable to alternating electrical fields (Tumour Treating Fields) may be a result of disruption to neurogliomal signalling. Further studies exploring excitatory neurotransmission and glutamatergic signalling and their role in glioma origin, growth and propagation are therefore warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin Kumaria
- Department of Neurosurgery, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK.
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3
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Lee JR, Jeong KW. N-retinylidene- N-retinylethanolamine degradation in human retinal pigment epithelial cells via memantine- and ifenprodil-mediated autophagy. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 27:449-456. [PMID: 37641807 PMCID: PMC10466070 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2023.27.5.449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are ionic glutamine receptors involved in brain development and functions such as learning and memory formation. NMDA receptor inhibition is associated with autophagy activation. In this study, we investigated whether the NMDA receptor antagonists, memantine and ifenprodil, induce autophagy in human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) to remove Nretinylidene- N-retinylethanolamine (A2E), an intracellular lipofuscin component. Fluorometric analysis using labeled A2E (A2E-BDP) and confocal microscopic examination revealed that low concentrations of NMDA receptor antagonists, which did not induce cytotoxicity, significantly reduced A2E accumulation in ARPE-19 cells. In addition, memantine and ifenprodil activated autophagy in ARPE-19 cells as measured by microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain3-II formation and phosphorylated p62 protein levels. Further, to understand the correlation between memantine- and ifenprodil-mediated A2E degradation and autophagy, autophagy-related 5 (ATG5) was depleted using RNA interference. Memantine and ifenprodil failed to degrade A2E in ARPE-19 cells lacking ATG5. Taken together, our study indicates that the NMDA receptor antagonists, memantine and ifenprodil, can remove A2E accumulated in cells via autophagy activation in ARPE-19 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Rim Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
| | - Kwang Won Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
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NMDA Receptor Antagonists Degrade Lipofuscin via Autophagy in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58081129. [PMID: 36013596 PMCID: PMC9415004 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58081129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Age-related macular degeneration is a slow-progressing disease in which lipofuscin accumulates in the retina, causing inflammation and apoptosis of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. This study aimed to identify N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) signaling as a novel mechanism for scavenging N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E), a component of ocular lipofuscin, in human RPE cells. Materials and Methods: A2E degradation assays were performed in ARPE-19 cells using fluorescently labeled A2E. The autophagic activity in ARPE-19 cells was measured upon blue light (BL) exposure, after A2E treatment. Autophagy flux was determined by measuring LC3-II formation using immunoblotting and confocal microscopy. To determine whether autophagy via the NMDA receptor is involved in A2E clearance, ATG5-deficient cells were used. Results: Ro 25-6981, an NR2B-selective NMDA receptor antagonist, effectively cleared A2E. Ro 25-6981 reduced A2E accumulation in the lysosomes of ARPE-19 cells at sub-cytotoxic concentrations, while increasing the formation of LC3-II and decreasing p62 protein levels in a concentration-dependent manner. The autophagic flux monitored by RFP-GFP-LC3 and bafilomycin A1 assays was significantly increased by Ro 25-6981. A2E clearance by Ro 25-6981 was abolished in ATG5-depleted ARPE-19 cells, suggesting that A2E degradation by Ro 25-6981 was mediated by autophagy. Furthermore, treatment with other NMDA receptor antagonists, CP-101,606 and AZD6765, showed similar effects on autophagy activation and A2E degradation in ARPE-19 cells. In contrast, glutamate, an NMDA receptor agonist, exhibited a contrasting effect, suggesting that both the activation of autophagy and the degradation of A2E by Ro 25-6981 in ARPE-19 cells occur through inhibition of the NMDA receptor pathway. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that NMDA receptor antagonists degrade lipofuscin via autophagy in human RPE cells and suggests that NMDA receptor antagonists could be promising new therapeutics for retinal degenerative diseases.
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Memantine in the Prevention of Radiation-Induced Brain Damage: A Narrative Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112736. [PMID: 35681716 PMCID: PMC9179311 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Decline in cognitive function is a major problem for patients undergoing whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT). Scientific interest has increased due to the high dropout rate of patients in the first months after WBRT and the early onset of cognitive decline. Therefore, the study of antiglutamatergic pharmacological prophylaxis and hippocampal-sparing WBRT techniques has been deepened based on the knowledge of the mechanisms of hyperglutamatergic neurotoxicity and the role of some hippocampal areas in cognitive decline. In order to provide a summary of the evidence in this field, and to foster future research in this setting, this literature review presents current evidence on the prevention of radiation-induced cognitive decline and particularly on the role of memantine. Abstract Preserving cognitive functions is a priority for most patients with brain metastases. Knowing the mechanisms of hyperglutamatergic neurotoxicity and the role of some hippocampal areas in cognitive decline (CD) led to testing both the antiglutamatergic pharmacological prophylaxis and hippocampal-sparing whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) techniques. These studies showed a relative reduction in CD four to six months after WBRT. However, the failure to achieve statistical significance in one study that tested memantine alone (RTOG 0614) led to widespread skepticism about this drug in the WBRT setting. Moreover, interest grew in the reasons for the strong patient dropout rates in the first few months after WBRT and for early CD onset. In fact, the latter can only partially be explained by subclinical tumor progression. An emerging interpretation of the (not only) cognitive impairment during and immediately after WBRT is the dysfunction of the limbic and hypothalamic system with its immune and hormonal consequences. This new understanding of WBRT-induced toxicity may represent the basis for further innovative trials. These studies should aim to: (i) evaluate in greater detail the cognitive effects and, more generally, the quality of life impairment during and immediately after WBRT; (ii) study the mechanisms producing these early effects; (iii) test in clinical studies, the modern and advanced WBRT techniques based on both hippocampal-sparing and hypothalamic-pituitary-sparing, currently evaluated only in planning studies; (iv) test new timings of antiglutamatergic drugs administration aimed at preventing not only late toxicity but also acute effects.
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Guan PP, Cao LL, Yang Y, Wang P. Calcium Ions Aggravate Alzheimer's Disease Through the Aberrant Activation of Neuronal Networks, Leading to Synaptic and Cognitive Deficits. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:757515. [PMID: 34924952 PMCID: PMC8674839 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.757515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by the production and deposition of β-amyloid protein (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau, leading to the formation of β-amyloid plaques (APs) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Although calcium ions (Ca2+) promote the formation of APs and NFTs, no systematic review of the mechanisms by which Ca2+ affects the development and progression of AD has been published. Therefore, the current review aimed to fill the gaps between elevated Ca2+ levels and the pathogenesis of AD. Specifically, we mainly focus on the molecular mechanisms by which Ca2+ affects the neuronal networks of neuroinflammation, neuronal injury, neurogenesis, neurotoxicity, neuroprotection, and autophagy. Furthermore, the roles of Ca2+ transporters located in the cell membrane, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria and lysosome in mediating the effects of Ca2+ on activating neuronal networks that ultimately contribute to the development and progression of AD are discussed. Finally, the drug candidates derived from herbs used as food or seasoning in Chinese daily life are summarized to provide a theoretical basis for improving the clinical treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Pei Guan
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Long-Long Cao
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yi Yang
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Pu Wang
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
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Shafiei-Irannejad V, Abbaszadeh S, Janssen PML, Soraya H. Memantine and its benefits for cancer, cardiovascular and neurological disorders. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 910:174455. [PMID: 34461125 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Memantine is a non-competitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist that was initially indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It is now also considered for a variety of other pathologies in which activation of NMDA receptors apparently contributes to the pathogenesis and progression of disease. In addition to the central nervous system (CNS), NMDA receptors can be found in non-neuronal cells and tissues that recently have become an interesting research focus. Some studies have shown that glutamate signaling plays a role in cell transformation and cancer progression. In addition, these receptors may play a role in cardiovascular disorders. In this review, we focus on the most recent findings for memantine with respect to its pharmacological effects in a range of diseases, including inflammatory disorders, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, neuropathy, as well as retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Shafiei-Irannejad
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Samin Abbaszadeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Paul M L Janssen
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Hamid Soraya
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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8
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Transcriptomic signatures of treatment response to the combination of escitalopram and memantine or placebo in late-life depression. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:5171-5179. [PMID: 32382137 PMCID: PMC9922535 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-0752-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Drugs that target glutamate neuronal transmission, such as memantine, offer a novel approach to the treatment of late-life depression, which is frequently comorbid with cognitive impairment. The results of our recently published double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of escitalopram or escitalopram/memantine in late-life depression with subjective memory complaints (NCT01902004) indicated no differences between treatments in depression remission, but additional benefits in cognition at 12-month follow-up with combination treatment. To identify pathways and biological functions uniquely induced by combination treatment that may explain cognitive improvements, we generated transcriptional profiles of remission compared with non-remission from whole blood samples. Remitters to escitalopram compared with escitalopram/memantine combination treatment display unique patterns of gene expression at baseline and 6 months after treatment initiation. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrates that escitalopram-based remission associates to functions related to cellular proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammatory response. Escitalopram/memantine-based remission, however, is characterized by processes related to cellular clearance, metabolism, and cytoskeletal dynamics. Both treatments modulate inflammatory responses, albeit via different effector pathways. Additional research is needed to understand the implications of these results in explaining the observed superior effects of combination treatment on cognition observed with prolonged treatment.
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9
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Gasiorowska A, Wydrych M, Drapich P, Zadrozny M, Steczkowska M, Niewiadomski W, Niewiadomska G. The Biology and Pathobiology of Glutamatergic, Cholinergic, and Dopaminergic Signaling in the Aging Brain. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:654931. [PMID: 34326765 PMCID: PMC8315271 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.654931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The elderly population is growing worldwide, with important health and socioeconomic implications. Clinical and experimental studies on aging have uncovered numerous changes in the brain, such as decreased neurogenesis, increased synaptic defects, greater metabolic stress, and enhanced inflammation. These changes are associated with cognitive decline and neurobehavioral deficits. Although aging is not a disease, it is a significant risk factor for functional worsening, affective impairment, disease exaggeration, dementia, and general disease susceptibility. Conversely, life events related to mental stress and trauma can also lead to accelerated age-associated disorders and dementia. Here, we review human studies and studies on mice and rats, such as those modeling human neurodegenerative diseases, that have helped elucidate (1) the dynamics and mechanisms underlying the biological and pathological aging of the main projecting systems in the brain (glutamatergic, cholinergic, and dopaminergic) and (2) the effect of defective glutamatergic, cholinergic, and dopaminergic projection on disabilities associated with aging and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Detailed knowledge of the mechanisms of age-related diseases can be an important element in the development of effective ways of treatment. In this context, we briefly analyze which adverse changes associated with neurodegenerative diseases in the cholinergic, glutaminergic and dopaminergic systems could be targeted by therapeutic strategies developed as a result of our better understanding of these damaging mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gasiorowska
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Wydrych
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Patrycja Drapich
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Zadrozny
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Steczkowska
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wiktor Niewiadomski
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grazyna Niewiadomska
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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Radin DP, Tsirka SE. Interactions between Tumor Cells, Neurons, and Microglia in the Glioma Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8476. [PMID: 33187183 PMCID: PMC7698134 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant strides made in understanding the pathophysiology of high-grade gliomas over the past two decades, most patients succumb to these neoplasias within two years of diagnosis. Furthermore, there are various co-morbidities associated with glioma and standard of care treatments. Emerging evidence suggests that aberrant glutamate secretion in the glioma microenvironment promotes tumor progression and contributes to the development of co-morbidities, such as cognitive defects, epilepsy, and widespread neurodegeneration. Recent data clearly illustrate that neurons directly synapse onto glioma cells and drive their proliferation and spread via glutamatergic action. Microglia are central nervous system-resident myeloid cells, modulate glioma growth, and possess the capacity to prune synapses and encourage synapse formation. However, current literature has yet to investigate the potential role of microglia in shaping synapse formation between neurons and glioma cells. Herein, we present the literature concerning glutamate's role in glioma progression, involving hyperexcitability and excitotoxic cell death of peritumoral neurons and stimulation of glioma proliferation and invasion. Furthermore, we discuss instances in which microglia are more likely to sculpt or encourage synapse formation during glioma treatment and propose studies to delineate the role of microglia in synapse formation between neurons and glioma cells. The sex-dependent oncogenic or oncolytic actions of microglia and myeloid cells, in general, are considered in addition to the functional differences between microglia and macrophages in tumor progression. We also put forth tractable methods to safely perturb aberrant glutamatergic action in the tumor microenvironment without significantly increasing the toxicities of the standard of care therapies for glioma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stella E. Tsirka
- Stony Brook Medical Scientist Training Program, Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology Graduate Program, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, NY 11794-8651, USA;
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Mollazadeh H, Mohtashami E, Mousavi SH, Soukhtanloo M, Vahedi MM, Hosseini A, Afshari AR, Sahebkar A. Deciphering the Role of Glutamate Signaling in Glioblastoma Multiforme: Current Therapeutic Modalities and Future Directions. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:4777-4788. [DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200603132456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
As the most popular intrinsic neoplasm throughout the brain, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is resistant
to existing therapies. Due to its invasive nature, GBM shows a poor prognosis despite aggressive surgery
and chemoradiation. Therefore, identifying and understanding the critical molecules of GBM can help develop
new therapeutic strategies. Glutamatergic signaling dysfunction has been well documented in neurodegenerative
diseases as well as in GBM. Inhibition of glutamate receptor activation or extracellular glutamate release by specific
antagonists inhibits cell development, invasion, and migration and contributes to apoptosis and autophagy in
GBM cells. This review outlines the current knowledge of glutamate signaling involvement and current therapeutic
modalities for the treatment of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Mollazadeh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Elmira Mohtashami
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed H. Mousavi
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soukhtanloo
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad M. Vahedi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Azar Hosseini
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir R. Afshari
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
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Chilukuri S, Burela N. Memantine for Prevention of Brain Irradiation-Induced Cognitive Toxicity: A Tale of an Underappreciated and Underused Intervention. JCO Glob Oncol 2020; 6:1384-1388. [PMID: 32926643 PMCID: PMC7529526 DOI: 10.1200/go.20.00342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Chilukuri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, India
| | - Nagarjuna Burela
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai, India
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Vucicevic L, Misirkic M, Ciric D, Martinovic T, Jovanovic M, Isakovic A, Markovic I, Saponjic J, Foretz M, Rabanal-Ruiz Y, Korolchuk VI, Trajkovic V. Transcriptional block of AMPK-induced autophagy promotes glutamate excitotoxicity in nutrient-deprived SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:3383-3399. [PMID: 31720741 PMCID: PMC11105051 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03356-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the role of autophagy, a controlled lysosomal degradation of cellular macromolecules and organelles, in glutamate excitotoxicity during nutrient deprivation in vitro. The incubation in low-glucose serum/amino acid-free cell culture medium synergized with glutamate in increasing AMP/ATP ratio and causing excitotoxic necrosis in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. Glutamate suppressed starvation-triggered autophagy, as confirmed by diminished intracellular acidification, lower LC3 punctuation and LC3-I conversion to autophagosome-associated LC3-II, reduced expression of proautophagic beclin-1 and ATG5, increase of the selective autophagic target NBR1, and decreased number of autophagic vesicles. Similar results were observed in PC12 rat pheochromocytoma cells. Both glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity and autophagy inhibition in starved SH-SY5Y cells were reverted by NMDA antagonist memantine and mimicked by NMDA agonists D-aspartate and ibotenate. Glutamate reduced starvation-triggered phosphorylation of the energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) without affecting the activity of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1, a major negative regulator of autophagy. This was associated with reduced mRNA levels of autophagy transcriptional activators (FOXO3, ATF4) and molecules involved in autophagy initiation (ULK1, ATG13, FIP200), autophagosome nucleation/elongation (ATG14, beclin-1, ATG5), and autophagic cargo delivery to autophagosomes (SQSTM1). Glutamate-mediated transcriptional repression of autophagy was alleviated by overexpression of constitutively active AMPK. Genetic or pharmacological AMPK activation by AMPK overexpression or metformin, as well as genetic or pharmacological autophagy induction by TFEB overexpression or lithium chloride, reduced the sensitivity of nutrient-deprived SH-SY5Y cells to glutamate excitotoxicity. These data indicate that transcriptional inhibition of AMPK-dependent cytoprotective autophagy is involved in glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity during nutrient deprivation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ljubica Vucicevic
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maja Misirkic
- Department of Neurophysiology, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Darko Ciric
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Histology and Embryology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tamara Martinovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Histology and Embryology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maja Jovanovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Isakovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivanka Markovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jasna Saponjic
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marc Foretz
- Inserm U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris cité, Paris, France
| | - Yoana Rabanal-Ruiz
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Regional Center for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Viktor I Korolchuk
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Vladimir Trajkovic
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Belgrade, Dr. Subotica 1, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia.
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14
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Keshavarz M, Farrokhi MR, Amirinezhad Fard E, Mehdipour M. Contribution of Lysosome and Sigma Receptors to Neuroprotective Effects of Memantine Against Beta-Amyloid in the SH-SY5Y Cells. Adv Pharm Bull 2020; 10:452-457. [PMID: 32665905 PMCID: PMC7335986 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2020.055] [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: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Memantine is an approved drug for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Autophagy, lysosome dysfunction, and sigma receptors have possible roles in the pathophysiology of AD. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the contribution of sigma receptors and lysosome inhibition to the neuroprotective effects of memantine against amyloid-beta (Aβ)-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Methods: We determined the neuroprotective effects of memantine (2.5 µM), dizocilpine (MK801, as a selective N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist) (5 μM) against Aβ25– 35 (2 μg/μL)-induced neurotoxicity. We used chloroquine (10, 20, and 40 μM) as a lysosome inhibitor and BD-1063 (1, 10, and 30 μM) as a selective sigma receptor antagonist. The MTT assay was used to measure the neurotoxicity in the SH-SY5Y cells. Data were analyzed using the one-way ANOVA. Results: Memantine (2.5 µM), dizocilpine (5 µM), chloroquine (10 and 20 µM) and BD-1063 (1, 10 and 30 µM) decreased the neurotoxic effects of Aβ on the SH-SY5Y cells. However, chloroquine (40 µM) increased the neurotoxic effects of Aβ. Cell viability in the cells treated with memantine + Aβ + chloroquine (10, 20, and 40 μM) was significantly lower than the memantine + Aβ-treated group. Moreover, cell viability in the memantine + Aβ group was higher than the memantine + Aβ + BD-1063 (10 and 30 μM) groups. Conclusion: The lysosomal and sigma receptors may contribute to the neuroprotective mechanism of memantine and other NMDA receptor antagonists. Moreover, the restoration of lysosomes function and the modulation of sigma receptors are potential targets in the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Keshavarz
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Majid Reza Farrokhi
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elahe Amirinezhad Fard
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdipour
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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15
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Hirano K, Fujimaki M, Sasazawa Y, Yamaguchi A, Ishikawa KI, Miyamoto K, Souma S, Furuya N, Imamichi Y, Yamada D, Saya H, Akamatsu W, Saiki S, Hattori N. Neuroprotective effects of memantine via enhancement of autophagy. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 518:161-170. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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16
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Corsi L, Mescola A, Alessandrini A. Glutamate Receptors and Glioblastoma Multiforme: An Old "Route" for New Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20071796. [PMID: 30978987 PMCID: PMC6479730 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20071796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive malignant tumor of the central nervous system, with poor survival in both treated and untreated patients. Recent studies began to explain the molecular pathway, comprising the dynamic structural and mechanical changes involved in GBM. In this context, some studies showed that the human glioblastoma cells release high levels of glutamate, which regulates the proliferation and survival of neuronal progenitor cells. Considering that cancer cells possess properties in common with neural progenitor cells, it is likely that the functions of glutamate receptors may affect the growth of cancer cells and, therefore, open the road to new and more targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Corsi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy.
| | - Andrea Mescola
- CNR-Nanoscience Institute-S3, Via Campi 213/A, 41125 Modena, Italy.
| | - Andrea Alessandrini
- CNR-Nanoscience Institute-S3, Via Campi 213/A, 41125 Modena, Italy.
- Department of Physics, Informatics e Mathematics, Via G. Campi 213/a, 41125 Modena, Italy.
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17
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Zhang Y, Wang H, Li F, Xu X, Chen B, Zhang T. Inhibitory effects of Dulcitol on rat C6 glioma by regulating autophagy pathway. Nat Prod Res 2018; 34:1437-1441. [PMID: 30445865 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2018.1512994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In the study, we treated C6 rat glioma cells with 25 mg/ml Dulcitol for 24 h. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays were used to detect cellular growth. The measurements of the superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT) were used to assess oxidative stress level. Western was performed to detect the autophagy and apoptosis expression. The data showed that Dulcitol significantly decreased the cell viability, upregulated the Bax level in mitochondria and the Cytochrome C level in cytoplasm, and downregulated anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-xl. Moreover, it enhanced MDA level, reduced CAT and SOD activities, decreased LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, and increased P62 expression. However, rapamycin increased autophagy level and cell viability, and decreased ROS in Dulcitol treated C6 cells. Moreover, Dulcitol inhibited the glioma growth and enhanced survival in vivo. These results suggest that Dulcitol evidently increase cellular ROS levels and apoptosis in glioma cells, which can be significantly regulated by autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, P. R. China.,WuQing TCM Hospital Affiliated to Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, P. R. China.,School of Mathematical Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Fangjuan Li
- College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Xinxin Xu
- College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Baogui Chen
- WuQing TCM Hospital Affiliated to Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Tao Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education, Nankai University, Tianjin, P. R. China
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18
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Repurposing drugs for glioblastoma: From bench to bedside. Cancer Lett 2018; 428:173-183. [PMID: 29729291 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common, aggressive and lethal type of brain tumor. It is a stage IV cancer disease with a poor prognosis, as the current therapeutic options (surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) are not able to eradicate tumor cells. The approach to treat glioblastoma has not suffered major changes over the last decade and temozolomide (TMZ) remains the mainstay for chemotherapy. However, resistance mechanisms to TMZ and other chemotherapeutic agents are becoming more frequent. The lack of effective options is a reality that may be counterbalanced by repositioning known and commonly used drugs for other diseases. This approach takes into consideration the available pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, toxicity and safety data, and allows a much faster and less expensive drug and product development process. In this review, an extensive literature search is conducted aiming to list drugs with repurposing usage, based on their preferential damage in glioblastoma cells through various mechanisms. Some of these drugs have already entered clinical trials, exhibiting favorable outcomes, which sparks their potential application in glioblastoma treatment.
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Altinoz MA, Elmaci İ. Targeting nitric oxide and NMDA receptor-associated pathways in treatment of high grade glial tumors. Hypotheses for nitro-memantine and nitrones. Nitric Oxide 2017; 79:68-83. [PMID: 29030124 DOI: 10.1016/j.niox.2017.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a devastating brain cancer with no curative treatment. Targeting Nitric Oxide (NO) and glutamatergic pathways may help as adjunctive treatments in GBM. NO at low doses promotes tumorigenesis, while at higher levels (above 300 nM) triggers apoptosis. Gliomas actively secrete high amounts of glutamate which activates EGR signaling and mediates degradation of peritumoral tissues via excitotoxic injury. Memantine inhibits NMDA-subtype of glutamate receptors (NMDARs) and induces autophagic death of glioma cells in vitro and blocks glioma growth in vivo. Nitro-memantines may exert further benefits by limiting NMDAR signaling and by delivery of NO to the areas of excessive NMDAR activity leading NO-accumulation at tumoricidal levels within gliomas. Due to the duality of NO in tumorigenesis, agents which attenuate NO levels may also act beneficial in treatment of GBM. Nitrone compounds including N-tert-Butyl-α-phenylnitrone (PBN) and its disulfonyl-phenyl derivative, OKN-007 suppress free radical formation in experimental cerebral ischemia. OKN-007 failed to show clinical efficacy in stroke, but trials demonstrated its high biosafety in humans including elderly subjects. PBN inhibits the signaling pathways of NF-κB, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX). In animal models of liver cancer and glioblastoma, OKN-007 seemed more efficient than PBN in suppression of cell proliferation, microvascular density and in induction of apoptosis. OKN-007 also inhibits SULF2 enzyme, which promotes tumor growth via versatile pathways. We assume that nitromemantines may be more beneficial concomitant with chemo-radiotherapy while nitrones alone may act useful in suppressing basal tumor growth and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meric A Altinoz
- Neuroacademy Group, Department of Neurosurgery, Memorial Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - İlhan Elmaci
- Neuroacademy Group, Department of Neurosurgery, Memorial Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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