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Mahajan E, Raja A, Sharma AR, Jain A, K Prabha P, Prakash A, Medhi B. To evaluate the effect of endothelin receptor agonist IRL-1620 alone and in combination with donepezil in modulating neurodegeneration elicited by amyloid-β in rats. Exp Neurol 2024; 375:114720. [PMID: 38342181 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114720] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of efficient therapies for Alzheimer''s disease is essential since it is a serious public health problem. This investigation sought to ascertain any potential synergistic benefits of treating Alzheimer's disease with IRL-1620 monotherapy in addition to Donepezil. Additionally, the effect of IRL-1620 was evaluated using different doses (5 μg/kg,7 μg/kg, and 9 μg/kg). The study further assessed neurobehavioral, biochemical, molecular, and histopathological parameters to evaluate the efficacy of both IRL1620 by its own and in association with Donepezil. Fifty-eight adult male Wistar rats were allocated to eight experimental groups. A dose-ranging study of IRL-1620 was conducted using different doses administered via intravenous injection. Alzheimer's disease was induced by Aβ administration, and treatment arms included disease Control (Sham), Donepezil monotherapy, and combination treatment with IRL-1620 5 μg/kg (Dose selected from the dose-ranging study). The treatment using IRL-1620 (9 μg/kg) intravenously and Donepezil (1 mg/kg orally) both on its own and in addition substantially enhanced memory in comparison with the control group (p < 0.05). Dose of IRL-1620 (9 μg/kg) intravenously, escape latency decreased and the time spent in the target quadrant was considerably increased, and they further benefited from combination therapy. Moreover, IRL-1620 (9 μg/kg) intravenously and combination treatment reduced lipid peroxidation and acetylcholinesterase levels while increasing antioxidant enzyme levels. Immunohistochemistry and molecular analysis revealed enhanced expression of neurotrophic factors with combination treatment. The combination of IRL-1620 and Donepezil showed significant improvements in memory and neurobehavioral parameters (p < 0.05). Alzheimer's disease in male Wistar rats. These results indicate to the probable therapeutic advantages of IRL-1620 and Donepezil in the management of Alzheimer's disease. The combination treatment exhibited enhanced effects compared to monotherapy, highlighting its potential promising therapeutic approach. Additional research is required to understand the mechanisms behind these synergistic benefits and to establish the ideal dosage and duration of therapy for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshani Mahajan
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Anupam Raja
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Amit Raj Sharma
- Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Ashish Jain
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Praisy K Prabha
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Ajay Prakash
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Bikash Medhi
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India.
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2
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Mavridis T, Mavridi A, Karampela E, Galanos A, Gkiokas G, Iacovidou N, Xanthos T. Sovateltide (ILR-1620) Improves Motor Function and Reduces Hyperalgesia in a Rat Model of Spinal Cord Injury. Neurocrit Care 2024:10.1007/s12028-024-01950-2. [PMID: 38443708 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-024-01950-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injury (SCI) presents a major global health challenge, with rising incidence rates and substantial disability. Although progress has been made in understanding SCI's pathophysiology and early management, there is still a lack of effective treatments to mitigate long-term consequences. This study investigates the potential of sovateltide, a selective endothelin B receptor agonist, in improving clinical outcomes in an acute SCI rat model. METHODS Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent sham surgery (group A) or SCI and treated with vehicle (group B) or sovateltide (group C). Clinical tests, including Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scoring, inclined plane, and allodynia testing with von Frey hair, were performed at various time points. Statistical analyses assessed treatment effects. RESULTS Sovateltide administration significantly improved motor function, reducing neurological deficits and enhancing locomotor recovery compared with vehicle-treated rats, starting from day 7 post injury. Additionally, the allodynic threshold improved, suggesting antinociceptive properties. Notably, the sovateltide group demonstrated sustained recovery, and even reached preinjury performance levels, whereas the vehicle group plateaued. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that sovateltide may offer neuroprotective effects, enhancing neurogenesis and angiogenesis. Furthermore, it may possess anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties. Future clinical trials are needed to validate these findings, but sovateltide shows promise as a potential therapeutic strategy to improve functional outcomes in SCI. Sovateltide, an endothelin B receptor agonist, exhibits neuroprotective properties, enhancing motor recovery and ameliorating hyperalgesia in a rat SCI model. These findings could pave the way for innovative pharmacological interventions for SCI in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros Mavridis
- First Department of Neurology, Eginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
- Department of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH)/The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, Incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Artemis Mavridi
- First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Antonis Galanos
- Laboratory for Research of the Musculoskeletal System, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Gkiokas
- Second Department of Surgery, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nicoletta Iacovidou
- Department of Neonatology, Aretaieio Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoros Xanthos
- School of Health and Caring Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
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Ranjan AK, Gulati A. Advances in Therapies to Treat Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6653. [PMID: 37892791 PMCID: PMC10607511 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12206653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a condition that results in brain damage in newborns due to insufficient blood and oxygen supply during or after birth. HIE is a major cause of neurological disability and mortality in newborns, with over one million neonatal deaths occurring annually worldwide. The severity of brain injury and the outcome of HIE depend on several factors, including the cause of oxygen deprivation, brain maturity, regional blood flow, and maternal health conditions. HIE is classified into mild, moderate, and severe categories based on the extent of brain damage and resulting neurological issues. The pathophysiology of HIE involves different phases, including the primary phase, latent phase, secondary phase, and tertiary phase. The primary and secondary phases are characterized by episodes of energy and cell metabolism failures, increased cytotoxicity and apoptosis, and activated microglia and inflammation in the brain. A tertiary phase occurs if the brain injury persists, characterized by reduced neural plasticity and neuronal loss. Understanding the cellular and molecular aspects of the different phases of HIE is crucial for developing new interventions and therapeutics. This review aims to discuss the pathophysiology of HIE, therapeutic hypothermia (TH), the only approved therapy for HIE, ongoing developments of adjuvants for TH, and potential future drugs for HIE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaresh K Ranjan
- Research and Development, Pharmazz Inc., Willowbrook, IL 60527, USA
| | - Anil Gulati
- Research and Development, Pharmazz Inc., Willowbrook, IL 60527, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
- College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
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4
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Keam SJ. Sovateltide: First Approval. Drugs 2023; 83:1239-1244. [PMID: 37486545 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01922-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Sovateltide (Tycamzzi™), a highly selective endothelin-B receptor agonist and synthetic analog of endothelin-1, is being developed by Pharmazz, Inc. as a neural progenitor cell therapeutic agent for the treatment of acute cerebral ischemic stroke (ACIS), hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), spinal cord injuries and Alzheimer's disease. In May 2023, sovateltide was approved in India for the treatment of cerebral ischemic stroke within 24 h of stroke onset. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of sovateltide leading to this first approval for use in patients with ACIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J Keam
- Springer Nature, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, 0754, New Zealand.
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5
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Briyal S, Ranjan AK, Gulati A. Oxidative stress: A target to treat Alzheimer's disease and stroke. Neurochem Int 2023; 165:105509. [PMID: 36907516 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been established as a well-known pathological condition in several neurovascular diseases. It starts with increased production of highly oxidizing free-radicals (e.g. reactive oxygen species; ROS and reactive nitrogen species; RNS) and becomes too high for the endogenous antioxidant system to neutralize them, which results in a significantly disturbed balance between free-radicals and antioxidants levels and causes cellular damage. A number of studies have evidently shown that oxidative stress plays a critical role in activating multiple cell signaling pathways implicated in both progression as well as initiation of neurological diseases. Therefore, oxidative stress continues to remain a key therapeutic target for neurological diseases. This review discusses the mechanisms involved in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in the brain, oxidative stress, and pathogenesis of neurological disorders such as stroke and Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the scope of antioxidant therapies for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Briyal
- College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA.
| | - Amaresh K Ranjan
- College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA
| | - Anil Gulati
- College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA; Pharmazz Inc. Research and Development, Willowbrook, IL, USA
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6
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Khaing ZZ, Chen JY, Safarians G, Ezubeik S, Pedroncelli N, Duquette RD, Prasse T, Seidlits SK. Clinical Trials Targeting Secondary Damage after Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3824. [PMID: 36835233 PMCID: PMC9960771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) often causes loss of sensory and motor function resulting in a significant reduction in quality of life for patients. Currently, no therapies are available that can repair spinal cord tissue. After the primary SCI, an acute inflammatory response induces further tissue damage in a process known as secondary injury. Targeting secondary injury to prevent additional tissue damage during the acute and subacute phases of SCI represents a promising strategy to improve patient outcomes. Here, we review clinical trials of neuroprotective therapeutics expected to mitigate secondary injury, focusing primarily on those in the last decade. The strategies discussed are broadly categorized as acute-phase procedural/surgical interventions, systemically delivered pharmacological agents, and cell-based therapies. In addition, we summarize the potential for combinatorial therapies and considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zin Z. Khaing
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jessica Y. Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gevick Safarians
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sohib Ezubeik
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Nicolas Pedroncelli
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Rebecca D. Duquette
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Tobias Prasse
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Stephanie K. Seidlits
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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7
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Ma K, Zheng ZR, Meng Y. Pathogenesis of Chronic Kidney Disease Is Closely Bound up with Alzheimer's Disease, Especially via the Renin-Angiotensin System. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12041459. [PMID: 36835994 PMCID: PMC9966558 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12041459] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a clinical syndrome secondary to the definitive change in function and structure of the kidney, which is characterized by its irreversibility and slow and progressive evolution. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the extracellular accumulation of misfolded β-amyloid (Aβ) proteins into senile plaques and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) containing hyperphosphorylated tau. In the aging population, CKD and AD are growing problems. CKD patients are prone to cognitive decline and AD. However, the connection between CKD and AD is still unclear. In this review, we take the lead in showing that the development of the pathophysiology of CKD may also cause or exacerbate AD, especially the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). In vivo studies had already shown that the increased expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) produces a positive effect in aggravating AD, but ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) have protective effects against AD. Among the possible association of risk factors in CKD and AD, we mainly discuss the RAS in the systemic circulation and the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ma
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Zi-Run Zheng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Yu Meng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510000, China
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Heyuan 517000, China
- Institute of Nephrology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510000, China
- Correspondence:
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8
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Mohi-Ud-Din R, Mir RH, Mir PA, Banday N, Shah AJ, Sawhney G, Bhat MM, Batiha GE, Pottoo FH, Pottoo FH. Dysfunction of ABC Transporters at the Surface of BBB: Potential Implications in Intractable Epilepsy and Applications of Nanotechnology Enabled Drug Delivery. Curr Drug Metab 2022; 23:735-756. [PMID: 35980054 DOI: 10.2174/1389200223666220817115003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder affecting 70 million people globally. One of the fascinating attributes of brain microvasculature is the (BBB), which controls a chain of distinct features that securely regulate the molecules, ions, and cells movement between the blood and the parenchyma. The barrier's integrity is of paramount importance and essential for maintaining brain homeostasis, as it offers both physical and chemical barriers to counter pathogens and xenobiotics. Dysfunction of various transporters in the (BBB), mainly ATP binding cassette (ABC), is considered to play a vital role in hampering the availability of antiepileptic drugs into the brain. ABC (ATP-binding cassette) transporters constitute a most diverse protein superfamily, which plays an essential part in various biological processes, including cell homeostasis, cell signaling, uptake of nutrients, and drug metabolism. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in neuroprotection by out-flowing various internal and external toxic substances from the interior of a cell, thus decreasing their buildup inside the cell. In humans, forty-eight ABC transporters have been acknowledged and categorized into subfamilies A to G based on their phylogenetic analysis. ABC subfamilies B, C, and G, impart a vital role at the BBB in guarding the brain against the entrance of various xenobiotic and their buildup. The illnesses of the central nervous system have received a lot of attention lately Owing to the existence of the BBB, the penetration effectiveness of most CNS medicines into the brain parenchyma is very limited (BBB). In the development of neurological therapies, BBB crossing for medication delivery to the CNS continues to be a major barrier. Nanomaterials with BBB cross ability have indeed been extensively developed for the treatment of CNS diseases due to their advantageous properties. This review will focus on multiple possible factors like inflammation, oxidative stress, uncontrolled recurrent seizures, and genetic polymorphisms that result in the deregulation of ABC transporters in epilepsy and nanotechnology-enabled delivery across BBB in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roohi Mohi-Ud-Din
- Department of General Medicine, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190011, India.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Applied Sciences & Technology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Reyaz Hassan Mir
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Division, Chandigarh College of Pharmacy, Landran, Punjab-140301, India.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Division, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Prince Ahad Mir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Khalsa College of Pharmacy, G.T. Road, Amritsar-143002, Punjab, India
| | - Nazia Banday
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Applied Sciences & Technology, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Abdul Jalil Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Division, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Kashmir, India
| | - Gifty Sawhney
- Inflammation Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu-Tawi, Jammu 180001, India
| | - Mudasir Maqbool Bhat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Practice Division, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar-190006, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Gaber E Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt
| | - Faheem Hyder Pottoo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faheem Hyder Pottoo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, 31441, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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9
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Sovateltide Mediated Endothelin B Receptors Agonism and Curbing Neurological Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063146. [PMID: 35328566 PMCID: PMC8955091 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063146] [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: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological/neurovascular disorders constitute the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death globally. Major neurological/neurovascular disorders or diseases include cerebral stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, spinal cord injury, neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and others. Their pathophysiology is considered highly complex and is the main obstacle in developing any drugs for these diseases. In this review, we have described the endothelin system, its involvement in neurovascular disorders, the importance of endothelin B receptors (ETBRs) as a novel potential drug target, and its agonism by IRL-1620 (INN—sovateltide), which we are developing as a drug candidate for treating the above-mentioned neurological disorders/diseases. In addition, we have highlighted the results of our preclinical and clinical studies related to these diseases. The phase I safety and tolerability study of sovateltide has shown it as a safe and tolerable compound at therapeutic dosages. Furthermore, preclinical and clinical phase II studies have demonstrated the efficacy of sovateltide in treating acute ischemic stroke. It is under development as a first-in-class drug. In addition, efficacy studies in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), acute spinal cord injury, and neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) are ongoing. Successful completion of these studies will validate that ETBRs signaling can be an important target in developing drugs to treat neurological/neurovascular diseases.
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10
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Silpa L, Sim R, Russell AJ. Recent Advances in Small Molecule Stimulation of Regeneration and Repair. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2022; 61:128601. [PMID: 35123003 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.128601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches to stimulate regeneration and repair have the potential to transform healthcare and improve outcomes for patients suffering from numerous chronic degenerative diseases. To date most approaches have involved the transplantation of therapeutic cells, and while there have been a small number of clinical approvals, major hurdles exist to the routine adoption of such therapies. In recent years humans and other mammals have been shown to possess a regenerative capacity across multiple tissues and organs, and an innate regenerative and repair response has been shown to be activated in these organs in response to injury. These realisations have inspired a transformative approach in regenerative medicine: the development of new agents to directly target these innate regeneration and repair pathways. In this article we will review the current state of the art in the discovery of small molecule modulators of regeneration and their translation towards therapeutic agents, focussing specifically on the areas of neuroregeneration and cardiac regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Silpa
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford OX1 3TA
| | - Rachel Sim
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford OX1 3TA
| | - Angela J Russell
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford OX1 3TA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, University of Oxford OX1 3QT.
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11
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Wolf V, Abdul Y, Ergul A. Novel Targets and Interventions for Cognitive Complications of Diabetes. Front Physiol 2022; 12:815758. [PMID: 35058808 PMCID: PMC8764363 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.815758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes and cognitive dysfunction, ranging from mild cognitive impairment to dementia, often coexist in individuals over 65 years of age. Vascular contributions to cognitive impairment/dementia (VCID) are the second leading cause of dementias under the umbrella of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). Over half of dementia patients have VCID either as a single pathology or a mixed dementia with AD. While the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in individuals with dementia can be as high as 39% and diabetes increases the risk of cerebrovascular disease and stroke, VCID remains to be one of the less understood and less studied complications of diabetes. We have identified cerebrovascular dysfunction and compromised endothelial integrity leading to decreased cerebral blood flow and iron deposition into the brain, respectively, as targets for intervention for the prevention of VCID in diabetes. This review will focus on targeted therapies that improve endothelial function or remove iron without systemic effects, such as agents delivered intranasally, that may result in actionable and disease-modifying novel treatments in the high-risk diabetic population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Wolf
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Yasir Abdul
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States,*Correspondence: Yasir Abdul,
| | - Adviye Ergul
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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12
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Ramos MD, Briyal S, Prazad P, Gulati A. Neuroprotective Effect of Sovateltide (IRL 1620, PMZ 1620) in a Neonatal Rat Model of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy. Neuroscience 2022; 480:194-202. [PMID: 34826534 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic hypothermia with modest results is the only treatment currently available for neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Endothelin B (ETB) receptors in the brain are shown to have neural restorative capacity. ETB receptors agonist sovateltide alone or as an adjuvant therapy may enhance neurovascular remodeling in HIE. Sprague-Dawley rat pups were grouped based on treatments into (1) Control; (2) HIE + Vehicle; (3) HIE + Hypothermia; (4) HIE + sovateltide; and (5) HIE + sovateltide + hypothermia. HIE was induced on postnatal day (PND) 7, followed by sovateltide (5 µg/kg) intracerebroventricular injection and/or hypothermia. On PND 10, brains were analyzed for the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), nerve growth factor (NGF), ETB receptors, oxidative stress and cellular damage markers. Vehicle-treated animals had high oxidative stress level as indicated by an increase in lipid peroxidation factor, malondialdehyde, and decreased antioxidants, reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase, compared to control. These effects were reversed in sovateltide alone (p < 0.001) or in combination with the therapeutic hypothermia (p < 0.001), indicating that ETB receptor activation reduces oxidative stress injury following HIE. Animals receiving sovateltide demonstrated a significant (p < 0.0001) upregulation of ETB receptor, VEGF, and NGF expression in the brain compared to vehicle-treated animals. Additionally, sovateltide alone or in combination with therapeutic hypothermia significantly (p < 0.001) reduced cell death when compared to vehicle or therapeutic hypothermia alone, demonstrating that sovateltide is neuroprotective and attenuates neural damage following HIE. These findings are important and merit additional studies for development of new interventions for improving neurodevelopmental outcomes after HIE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Davis Ramos
- Advocate Children's Hospital, Department of Neonatology, Park Ridge, IL 60068 United States.
| | - Seema Briyal
- Midwestern University, College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove, IL 60515, United States.
| | - Preetha Prazad
- Advocate Children's Hospital, Department of Neonatology, Park Ridge, IL 60068 United States
| | - Anil Gulati
- Midwestern University, College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove, IL 60515, United States; Pharmazz Inc. Research and Development, Willowbrook, IL 60527, United States
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13
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Muhammad RN, Ahmed LA, Abdul Salam RM, Ahmed KA, Attia AS. Crosstalk Among NLRP3 Inflammasome, ET BR Signaling, and miRNAs in Stress-Induced Depression-Like Behavior: a Modulatory Role for SGLT2 Inhibitors. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:2664-2681. [PMID: 34664178 PMCID: PMC8804152 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01140-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Depression is an overwhelming health concern, and many patients fail to optimally respond to available standard therapies. Neuroplasticity and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity are the cornerstones of a well-functioning central nervous system, but they are vulnerable to an overly active NLRP3 inflammasome pathway that can also indirectly trigger the release of ET-1 and contribute to the ET system disturbance, which further damages stress resilience mechanisms. Here, the promising yet unexplored antidepressant potential of dapagliflozin (Dapa), a sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor, was investigated by assessing its role in the modulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and ETBR signal transduction, and their impact on neuroplasticity and BBB integrity in an animal model of depression. Dapa (1 mg/kg/day; p.o.) with and without BQ-788 (1 mg/kg/day; i.p.), a specific ETBR blocker, were administered to adolescent male Wistar rats exposed to a 5-week chronic unpredictable stress protocol. The depressive animals demonstrated marked activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway (NF-κB/NLRP3/caspase-1/IL/TNF-α), which was associated with both peripheral and central inflammatory responses. The ET system was disrupted, with noticeable reduction in miR-125a-5p and ETBR gene expression. Cortical ZO-1 expression was downregulated under the influence of NLRP3/TNF-α/miR-501-3p signaling, along with a prominent reduction in hippocampal BDNF and synapsin-1. With ETBR up-regulation being a cornerstone outcome, Dapa administration efficiently created an overall state of resilience, improved histopathological and behavioral variables, and preserved BBB function. These observations were further verified by the results obtained with BQ-788 co-administration. Thus, Dapa may exert its antidepressant action by reinforcing BBB integrity and promoting neuroplasticity through manipulation of the NLRP3/ET-1/ETBR/BDNF/ZO-1 axis, with a significant role for ETBR signaling. Graphical illustration for the proposed mechanisms of the anti-depressant potential of Dapa. Dapa suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation and assembly with subsequent inhibition of pro-inflammatory ILs. This results in attenuation of neuro-inflammation, BBB disruption, glial cell activation, TNF-α and ET-1 release, and the enhanced production of neurotrophins. The role of ETBR signaling was emphasized; Dapa possibly augmented ETBR expression, which is thought to boost neurotrophins production. The ETBR blocker, BQ-788, suppressed most of the positive outcomes of Dapa. Finally, miR-125a-5p and miR-501-3p that played major roles in these pathological pathways were modulated by Dapa. It is not yet clear whether Dapa has a direct or rather indirect effect on their expression. BBB, blood-brain barrier; Dapa, dapagliflozin; ET-1, endothelin-1; ETBR, endothelin B receptor; IL, interleukin; NF-κB, nuclear factor kappa B; NLRP3, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing protein 3; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor-α. Created with BioRender.com.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radwa N Muhammad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
| | - Lamiaa A Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
| | - Rania M Abdul Salam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
- Department of Biology, School of Pharmacy, New Giza University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Kawkab A Ahmed
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Amina S Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
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14
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Sharma S, Behl T, Kumar A, Sehgal A, Singh S, Sharma N, Bhatia S, Al-Harrasi A, Bungau S. Targeting Endothelin in Alzheimer's Disease: A Promising Therapeutic Approach. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:7396580. [PMID: 34532504 PMCID: PMC8440097 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7396580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Endothelin is a chemical mediator that helps in maintaining balance within the blood-brain barrier by regulating the levels of toxicants and molecules which pass through the brain, suggesting that a rise in its production determines Alzheimer's disease. The inequity in the amyloid β occurs due to a problem in its clearance from the brain initiating the production of reactive oxygen species and superoxide that activates a cascade wherein the release of inflammatory mediators and various enzymes like endothelin-converting enzymes take place. Furthermore, the cascade increases the levels of endothelin in the brain from endothelial cells. Endothelin levels are upregulated, which can be regulated by modulating the action of endothelin-converting enzymes and endothelin receptors. Hence, endothelin paves a pathway in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. In this article, we have covered various mechanisms and preclinical studies that support and direct endothelin involvement in the progression of Alzheimer's disease by using various search tools such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Medline. Conclusive outcome data were extracted that all together defy contrivance pathways, potential drugs, endothelin receptors, and endothelin enzymes in our article giving profound importance to target endothelin for prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiwali Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Anoop Kumar
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Delhi, India
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Neelam Sharma
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Saurabh Bhatia
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Haryana, India
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Centre, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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15
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Zarini-Gakiye E, Amini J, Sanadgol N, Vaezi G, Parivar K. Recent Updates in the Alzheimer's Disease Etiopathology and Possible Treatment Approaches: A Narrative Review of Current Clinical Trials. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 13:273-294. [PMID: 32321414 DOI: 10.2174/1874467213666200422090135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent subtype of incurable neurodegenerative dementias and its etiopathology is still not clearly elucidated. OBJECTIVE Outline the ongoing clinical trials (CTs) in the field of AD, in order to find novel master regulators. METHODS We strictly reviewed all scientific reports from Clinicaltrials.gov and PubMed databases from January 2010 to January 2019. The search terms were "Alzheimer's disease" or "dementia" and "medicine" or "drug" or "treatment" and "clinical trials" and "interventions". Manuscripts that met the objective of this study were included for further evaluations. RESULTS Drug candidates have been categorized into two main groups including antibodies, peptides or hormones (such as Ponezumab, Interferon β-1a, Solanezumab, Filgrastim, Levemir, Apidra, and Estrogen), and naturally-derived ingredients or small molecules (such as Paracetamol, Ginkgo, Escitalopram, Simvastatin, Cilostazo, and Ritalin-SR). The majority of natural candidates acted as anti-inflammatory or/and anti-oxidant and antibodies exert their actions via increasing amyloid-beta (Aβ) clearance or decreasing Tau aggregation. Among small molecules, most of them that are present in the last phases act as specific antagonists (Suvorexant, Idalopirdine, Intepirdine, Trazodone, Carvedilol, and Risperidone) or agonists (Dextromethorphan, Resveratrol, Brexpiprazole) and frequently ameliorate cognitive dysfunctions. CONCLUSION The presences of a small number of candidates in the last phase suggest that a large number of candidates have had an undesirable side effect or were unable to pass essential eligibility for future phases. Among successful treatment approaches, clearance of Aβ, recovery of cognitive deficits, and control of acute neuroinflammation are widely chosen. It is predicted that some FDA-approved drugs, such as Paracetamol, Risperidone, Escitalopram, Simvastatin, Cilostazoand, and Ritalin-SR, could also be used in off-label ways for AD. This review improves our ability to recognize novel treatments for AD and suggests approaches for the clinical trial design for this devastating disease in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Zarini-Gakiye
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Amini
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran
| | - Nima Sanadgol
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran,Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Gholamhassan Vaezi
- Department of Biology, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Kazem Parivar
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Vissers MFJM, Heuberger JAAC, Groeneveld GJ. Targeting for Success: Demonstrating Proof-of-Concept with Mechanistic Early Phase Clinical Pharmacology Studies for Disease-Modification in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1615. [PMID: 33562713 PMCID: PMC7915613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical failure rate for disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) that slow or stop disease progression has been nearly 100% for the major neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), with many compounds failing in expensive and time-consuming phase 2 and 3 trials for lack of efficacy. Here, we critically review the use of pharmacological and mechanistic biomarkers in early phase clinical trials of DMTs in NDDs, and propose a roadmap for providing early proof-of-concept to increase R&D productivity in this field of high unmet medical need. A literature search was performed on published early phase clinical trials aimed at the evaluation of NDD DMT compounds using MESH terms in PubMed. Publications were selected that reported an early phase clinical trial with NDD DMT compounds between 2010 and November 2020. Attention was given to the reported use of pharmacodynamic (mechanistic and physiological response) biomarkers. A total of 121 early phase clinical trials were identified, of which 89 trials (74%) incorporated one or multiple pharmacodynamic biomarkers. However, only 65 trials (54%) used mechanistic (target occupancy or activation) biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement in humans. The most important categories of early phase mechanistic and response biomarkers are discussed and a roadmap for incorporation of a robust biomarker strategy for early phase NDD DMT clinical trials is proposed. As our understanding of NDDs is improving, there is a rise in potentially disease-modifying treatments being brought to the clinic. Further increasing the rational use of mechanistic biomarkers in early phase trials for these (targeted) therapies can increase R&D productivity with a quick win/fast fail approach in an area that has seen a nearly 100% failure rate to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurits F. J. M. Vissers
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.C.H.); (G.J.G.)
- Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jules A. A. C. Heuberger
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.C.H.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Geert Jan Groeneveld
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Zernikedreef 8, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.A.A.C.H.); (G.J.G.)
- Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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17
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Young AP, Zhu J, Bagher AM, Denovan-Wright EM, Howlett SE, Kelly MEM. Endothelin B receptor dysfunction mediates elevated myogenic tone in cerebral arteries from aged male Fischer 344 rats. GeroScience 2021; 43:1447-1463. [PMID: 33403617 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-020-00309-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The human brain requires adequate cerebral blood flow to meet the high demand for nutrients and to clear waste products. With age, there is a chronic reduction in cerebral blood flow in small resistance arteries that can eventually limit proper brain function. The endothelin system is a key mediator in the regulation of cerebral blood flow, but the contributions of its constituent receptors in the endothelial and vascular smooth muscle layers of cerebral arteries have not been well defined in the context of aging. We isolated posterior cerebral arteries from young and aged Fischer 344 rats, as well as ETB receptor knock-out rats and mounted the vessels in plexiglass pressure myograph chambers to measure myogenic tone in response to increasing pressure and targeted pharmacological treatments. We used an ETA receptor antagonist (BQ-123), an ETB receptor antagonist (BQ-788), endothelin-1, an endothelin-1 synthesis inhibitor (phosphoramidon), and vessel denudation to dissect the roles of each receptor in aging vasculature. Aged rats exhibited a higher myogenic tone than young rats, and the tone was sensitive to the ETA antagonist, BQ-123, but insensitive to the ETB antagonist, BQ-788. By contrast, the tone in the vessels from young rats was raised by BQ-788 but unaffected by BQ-123. When the endothelial layer that is normally enriched with ETB1 receptors was removed from young vessels, myogenic tone increased. However, denudation of the endothelial layer did not influence vessels from aged animals. This indicated that endothelial ETB1 receptors were not functional in the vessels from aged rats. There was also an increase in ETA receptor expression with age, whereas ETB receptor expression remained constant between young and aged animals. These results demonstrate that in young vessels, ETB1 receptors maintain a lower myogenic tone, but in aged vessels, a loss of ETB receptor activity allows ETA receptors in vascular smooth muscle cells to raise myogenic tone. Our findings have potentially important clinical implications for treatments to improve cerebral perfusion in older adults with diseases characterized by reduced cerebral blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Young
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Jiequan Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Amina M Bagher
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Susan E Howlett
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada.,Department of Medicine (Geriatric Medicine), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Melanie E M Kelly
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada. .,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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18
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Gulati A, Agrawal N, Vibha D, Misra UK, Paul B, Jain D, Pandian J, Borgohain R. Safety and Efficacy of Sovateltide (IRL-1620) in a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial in Patients with Acute Cerebral Ischemic Stroke. CNS Drugs 2021; 35:85-104. [PMID: 33428177 PMCID: PMC7872992 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-020-00783-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sovateltide (IRL-1620, PMZ-1620), an endothelin-B receptor agonist, has been previously shown to increase cerebral blood flow, have anti-apoptotic activity and produce neurovascular remodeling when administered intravenously following acute cerebral ischemic stroke in rats. Its safety and tolerability were confirmed in healthy human volunteers (CTRI/2016/11/007509). OBJECTIVE Our objective was to determine the safety, tolerability and efficacy of sovateltide as an addition to standard of care (SOC) in patients with acute cerebral ischemic stroke. METHODS A prospective, multicentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to compare the safety (primary objective) and efficacy (secondary objective) of sovateltide in patients with acute cerebral ischemic stroke. Adult males or females aged 18-70 years who had experienced a radiologically confirmed ischemic stroke within the last 24 h were included in the study. Patients with intracranial hemorrhage and those receiving endovascular therapy were excluded. Patients randomized to the sovateltide group received three doses of sovateltide (each dose 0.3 µg/kg) administered as an intravenous bolus over 1 min at an interval of 3 ± 1 h on day 1, day 3 and day 6 (total dose of 0.9 µg/kg/day). Patients randomized to the placebo group received an equal volume of saline. Every patient in both groups received SOC for stroke. Efficacy was evaluated using neurological outcomes based on National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel Index (BI) scores from day 1 through day 90. Quality of life was measured using the EuroQoL-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) and Stroke-Specific Quality of Life (SSQoL) at 60 and 90 days of follow-up. RESULTS A total of 40 patients with acute cerebral ischemic stroke were enrolled in this study, of whom 36 completed the 90-day follow-up. Patients received saline (n = 18; 11 male and 7 female) or sovateltide (n = 18; 15 male and 3 female) within 24 h of onset of stroke. The number of patients receiving investigational drug within 20 h of onset of stroke was 14/18 in the saline group and 10/18 in the sovateltide group. The baseline characteristics and SOC in both cohorts was similar. Sovateltide was well-tolerated, and all patients received complete treatment with no incidence of drug-related adverse events. Hemodynamic, biochemical or hematological parameters were not affected by sovateltide. Sovateltide treatment resulted in improved mRS and BI scores on day 6 compared with day 1 (p < 0.0001), an effect not seen in the saline group. Sovateltide increased the frequency of favorable outcomes at 3 months. An improvement of ≥ 2 points on the mRS was observed in 60 and 40% of patients in the sovateltide and saline groups, respectively (p = 0.0519; odds ratio [OR] 5.25). An improvement on the BI of ≥ 40 points was seen in 64 and 36% of the sovateltide and saline groups, respectively (p = 0.0112; OR 12.44). An improvement of ≥6 points on the NIHSS was seen in 56% of patients in the sovateltide group versus 43% in the saline group (p = 0.2714; OR 2.275). The number of patients with complete recovery (defined as an NIHSS score of 0 and a BI of 100) was significantly greater (p < 0.05) in the sovateltide group than in the saline group. An assessment of complete recovery using an mRS score of 0 did not show a statistically significant difference between the treatment groups. Sovateltide treatment resulted in improved quality of life as measured by the EQ-5D and SSQoL on day 90. CONCLUSION Sovateltide was safe and well-tolerated and resulted in improved neurological outcomes in patients with acute cerebral ischemic stroke 90 days post-treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study is registered at CTRI/2017/11/010654 and NCT04046484.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Gulati
- Pharmazz, Inc., 50 West 75th Street, Suite 105, Willowbrook, IL, 60527, USA.
- Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA.
| | | | - Deepti Vibha
- All India Inst of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - U K Misra
- Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
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19
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Ranjan AK, Briyal S, Gulati A. Sovateltide (IRL-1620) activates neuronal differentiation and prevents mitochondrial dysfunction in adult mammalian brains following stroke. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12737. [PMID: 32728189 PMCID: PMC7391684 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69673-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of effective drugs for stroke is urgently required as it is the 2nd largest killer in the world and its incidence is likely to increase in the future. We have demonstrated cerebral endothelin B receptors (ETBR) as a potential target to treat acute cerebral ischemic stroke. However, the mechanism of ETBR mediated neural regeneration and repair remains elusive. In this study, a permanent middle cerebral artery occluded (MCAO) rat model was used. Sovateltide (an ETBR agonist) injected intravenously showed better survival and neurological and motor function improvement than control. Higher neuronal progenitor cells (NPCs) differentiation along with better mitochondrial morphology and biogenesis in the brain of sovateltide rats were noted. Exposure of cultured NPCs to hypoxia and sovateltide also showed higher NPC differentiation and maturation. This study shows a novel role of ETBR in NPCs and mitochondrial fate determination in cerebral ischemia, and in improving neurological deficit after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaresh K Ranjan
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA.
| | - Seema Briyal
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA
| | - Anil Gulati
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA. .,Pharmazz Inc. Research and Development, Willlowbrook, IL, USA.
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20
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Ranjan AK, Briyal S, Khandekar D, Gulati A. Sovateltide (IRL-1620) affects neuronal progenitors and prevents cerebral tissue damage after ischemic stroke. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2020; 98:659-666. [PMID: 32574518 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2020-0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Stimulation of endothelin B receptors by its agonist IRL-1620 (INN, sovateltide) provides neuroprotection and neurological and motor function improvement following cerebral ischemia. We investigated the effect of sovateltide on stem and progenitor cells mediated neural regeneration and its effect on the cerebral tissue repair and restoration of neurological and motor function. Sovateltide (5 μg/kg) was injected intravenously in permanent middle cerebral artery occluded (MCAO) rats at 4, 6, and 8 h at days 0, 3, and 6. Neurological and motor function tests were carried out pre-MCAO and at day 7 post-MCAO. At day 7, significantly reduced expression of neuronal differentiation markers HuC/HuD and NeuroD1 was seen in MCAO + vehicle than sham rats. Sovateltide treatment upregulated HuC/HuD and NeuroD1 compared to MCAO + vehicle and their expression was similar to sham. Expression of stem cell markers Oct 4 and Sox 2 was similar in rats of all of the groups. Significantly reduced infarct volume and DNA damage with recovery of neurological and motor function was observed in sovateltide-treated MCAO rats. These results indicate that sovateltide initiates a regenerative response by promoting differentiation of neuronal progenitors and maintaining stem cells in an equilibrium following cerebral ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaresh K Ranjan
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - Seema Briyal
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - Divya Khandekar
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - Anil Gulati
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA.,Pharmazz Inc. Research and Development, Willowbrook, IL 60527, USA
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21
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Llanos-González E, Henares-Chavarino ÁA, Pedrero-Prieto CM, García-Carpintero S, Frontiñán-Rubio J, Sancho-Bielsa FJ, Alcain FJ, Peinado JR, Rabanal-Ruíz Y, Durán-Prado M. Interplay Between Mitochondrial Oxidative Disorders and Proteostasis in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neurosci 2020; 13:1444. [PMID: 32063825 PMCID: PMC7000623 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the basis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) etiology remains unknown, oxidative stress (OS) has been recognized as a prodromal factor associated to its progression. OS refers to an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant systems, which usually consist in an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) which overwhelms the intrinsic antioxidant defenses. Due to this increased production of ROS and RNS, several biological functions such as glucose metabolism or synaptic activity are impaired. In AD, growing evidence links the ROS-mediated damages with molecular targets including mitochondrial dynamics and function, protein quality control system, and autophagic pathways, affecting the proteostasis balance. In this scenario, OS should be considered as not only a major feature in the pathophysiology of AD but also a potential target to combat the progression of the disease. In this review, we will discuss the role of OS in mitochondrial dysfunction, protein quality control systems, and autophagy associated to AD and suggest innovative therapeutic strategies based on a better understanding of the role of OS and proteostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Llanos-González
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | | | - Cristina María Pedrero-Prieto
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Sonia García-Carpintero
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Javier Frontiñán-Rubio
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Sancho-Bielsa
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Alcain
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Juan Ramón Peinado
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Yoana Rabanal-Ruíz
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Mario Durán-Prado
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain.,Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration Group, Regional Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain
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22
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Briyal S, Ranjan AK, Hornick MG, Puppala AK, Luu T, Gulati A. Anti-apoptotic activity of ET B receptor agonist, IRL-1620, protects neural cells in rats with cerebral ischemia. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10439. [PMID: 31320660 PMCID: PMC6639304 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46203-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelin-B receptor agonist, IRL-1620, provides significant neuroprotection following cerebral ischemia in rats. Whether this neuroprotection is due to inhibition of apoptosis is unknown. IRL-1620-treated rats following permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) showed significant improvement in neurological and motor functions along with a decrease in infarct volume at 24 h (-81.3%) and day 7 (-73.0%) compared to vehicle group. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) significantly improved in IRL-1620-treated animals compared to vehicle by day 7 post MCAO. IRL-1620-treated rats showed an increase in phospho-Akt and decrease in Bad level 7 h post-occlusion compared to vehicle, while Akt and Bad expression was similar in cerebral hemispheres at 24 h post-MCAO. The phospho-Bad level was lower in vehicle- but not in IRL-1620-treated rats at 24 h. Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression decreased, while pro-apoptotic Bax expression increased in vehicle-treated MCAO rats, these changes were attenuated (P < 0.01) by IRL-1620. Mitochondrial membrane-bound Bax intensity significantly decreased in IRL-1620 compared to vehicle-treated MCAO rats. IRL-1620 treatment reduced (P < 0.001) the number of TUNEL-positive cells compared to vehicle at 24 h and day 7 post MCAO. The results demonstrate that IRL-1620 is neuroprotective and attenuates neural damage following cerebral ischemia in rats by increasing CBF and reducing apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Briyal
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA
| | - Amaresh K Ranjan
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA
| | - Mary G Hornick
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA
| | - Anupama K Puppala
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA
| | - Thanh Luu
- Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA
| | - Anil Gulati
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, 60515, USA. .,Pharmazz, Inc., Research and Development, Willowbrook, IL, USA.
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Endothelin A and B Receptors: Potential Targets for Microcirculatory-Mitochondrial Therapy in Experimental Sepsis. Shock 2019; 54:87-95. [DOI: 10.1097/shk.0000000000001414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Novel Approaches for the Treatment of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030719. [PMID: 30743990 PMCID: PMC6386829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders affect around one billion people worldwide. They can arise from a combination of genomic, epigenomic, metabolic, and environmental factors. Aging is the leading risk factor for most chronic illnesses of old age, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. A progressive neurodegenerative process and neuroinflammation occur, and no current therapies can prevent, slow, or halt disease progression. To date, no novel disease-modifying therapies have been shown to provide significant benefit for patients who suffer from these devastating disorders. Therefore, early diagnosis and the discovery of new targets and novel therapies are of upmost importance. Neurodegenerative diseases, like in other age-related disorders, the progression of pathology begins many years before the onset of symptoms. Many efforts in this field have led to the conclusion that exits some similar events among these diseases that can explain why the aging brain is so vulnerable to suffer neurodegenerative diseases. This article reviews the current knowledge about these diseases by summarizing the most common features of major neurodegenerative disorders, their causes and consequences, and the proposed novel therapeutic approaches.
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Cifuentes EG, Hornick MG, Havalad S, Donovan RL, Gulati A. Neuroprotective Effect of IRL-1620, an Endothelin B Receptor Agonist, on a Pediatric Rat Model of Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion. Front Pediatr 2018; 6:310. [PMID: 30406063 PMCID: PMC6206019 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2018.00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the potential neuroprotective effect of endothelin B (ETB) receptor agonist IRL-1620 treatment in a pediatric model of ischemic stroke. Design: A prospective, animal model study. Setting: An experimental laboratory. Subjects: Three-month-old male Wistar Han rats. Interventions: The rats underwent permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). At 2, 4, and 6 h post MCAO, they were treated with saline, IRL-1620 (5 μg/kg, IV), and/or ETB antagonist BQ788 (1 mg/kg, IV). Measurements and Main Results: The rats were evaluated over the course of 7 days for neurological and motor deficit, cerebral blood flow (CBF), and infarct volume. Young rats treated with IRL-1620 following MCAO improved significantly in neurological and motor assessments as compared to the vehicle-treated group, as measured by neurological score (P = 0.00188), grip test (P < 0.0001), and foot-fault error (P = 0.0075). CBF in the infarcted hemisphere decreased by 45-50% in all groups immediately following MCAO. After 7 days, CBF in the infarcted hemisphere of the IRL-1620 group increased significantly (P = 0.0007) when compared to the vehicle-treated group (+2.3 ± 23.3 vs. -45.4 ± 10.2%). Additionally, infarct volume was significantly reduced in IRL-1620-treated rats as compared to vehicle-treated rats (P = 0.0035, 41.4 ± 35.4 vs. 115.4 ± 40.9 mm3). Treatment with BQ788 blocked the effects of IRL-1620. Conclusions: IRL-1620 significantly reduced neurological and motor deficit as well as infarct volume while increasing CBF in a pediatric rat model of cerebral ischemia. These results indicate that selective ETB receptor stimulation may provide a novel therapeutic strategy in the treatment of pediatric ischemic stroke as has been demonstrated in adult ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary G Hornick
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
| | - Suresh Havalad
- Advocate Children's Hospital, Park Ridge, IL, United States
| | | | - Anil Gulati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
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