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Etebar N, Naderpour S, Akbari S, Zali A, Akhlaghdoust M, Daghighi SM, Baghani M, Sefat F, Hamidi SH, Rahimzadegan M. Impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on brain renin angiotensin system related signaling and its subsequent complications on brain: A theoretical perspective. J Chem Neuroanat 2024; 138:102423. [PMID: 38705215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2024.102423] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Cellular ACE2 (cACE2), a vital component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), possesses catalytic activity to maintain AngII and Ang 1-7 balance, which is necessary to prevent harmful effects of AngII/AT2R and promote protective pathways of Ang (1-7)/MasR and Ang (1-7)/AT2R. Hemostasis of the brain-RAS is essential for maintaining normal central nervous system (CNS) function. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a viral disease that causes multi-organ dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 mainly uses cACE2 to enter the cells and cause its downregulation. This, in turn, prevents the conversion of Ang II to Ang (1-7) and disrupts the normal balance of brain-RAS. Brain-RAS disturbances give rise to one of the pathological pathways in which SARS-CoV-2 suppresses neuroprotective pathways and induces inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species. Finally, these impairments lead to neuroinflammation, neuronal injury, and neurological complications. In conclusion, the influence of RAS on various processes within the brain has significant implications for the neurological manifestations associated with COVID-19. These effects include sensory disturbances, such as olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions, as well as cerebrovascular and brain stem-related disorders, all of which are intertwined with disruptions in the RAS homeostasis of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Etebar
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy - Eastern Mediterranean University Famagusta, North Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Saghi Naderpour
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy - Eastern Mediterranean University Famagusta, North Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Setareh Akbari
- Neuroscience and Research Committee, School of Advanced Technology in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Zali
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meisam Akhlaghdoust
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; USERN Office, Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mojtaba Daghighi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Matin Baghani
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farshid Sefat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Seyed Hootan Hamidi
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Acharya BM Reddy College of Pharmacy, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Milad Rahimzadegan
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Moll GN. Agonists of galanin subtype 2 receptor may prevent pancreatic cancer and agonists of angiotensin II type 2 receptor may prevent colorectal cancer. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 978:176772. [PMID: 38925290 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176772] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a dreadful disease with poor prognosis. While the prognosis of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is better than that of PDAC, it still is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Recently, a (methyl)lanthionine-stabilized, highly receptor-specific agonist of galanin subtype 2 (GAL2) receptor inhibited the growth of GAL2 receptor-expressing patient-derived xenografts (PDX) of pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, a lanthionine-constrained agonist of angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor inhibited PDX of colorectal cancer in mice. Stimulation of GAL2 receptor may modulate immune surveillance and inhibits PDAC via cell cycle inhibition and apoptosis. Consistent with GAL2 receptor-mediated tumor inhibition, for PDAC, survival is much higher for patients with high GAL2 receptor expression. Importantly, a (methyl)lanthionine-stabilized GAL2 receptor-specific agonist enhances expression of GAL2 receptor, not only in PDAC-PDX but also in healthy tissue indicating therapeutic and preventive potentials for GAL2 receptor agonists. AT2 receptor is interacting with four tumor suppressor proteins, Src homology phosphatase 1, Src homology phosphatase 2, Promyelocytic Leukemia Zinc Finger protein and Microtuble-Associated Scaffold Protein1, the latter also known as Angiotensin-II type 2 receptor-Interacting Protein. Pathways linked to these tumor suppressor proteins may enhance immune surveillance, prevent carcinogenesis, counter proliferation and stimulate apoptosis. Taken together, current data are prompting the hypothesis of a prophylactic treatment option with stable, specific and safe agonists of GAL2 receptor and AT2 receptor to prevent the emergence of pancreatic and colorectal cancer in individuals at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gert N Moll
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborg 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, Netherlands.
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Wong Zhang DE, Gibson Hughes TA, Figueiredo Galvao HB, Lo C, Dinh QN, Zhang SR, Kim HA, Selvaraji S, Clarkson AN, Arumugam TV, Drummond G, Sobey CG, De Silva TM. Post-stroke cognitive impairment and brain hemorrhage are augmented in hypertensive mice. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2024:271678X241262127. [PMID: 38886874 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x241262127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Hypertension is a major risk factor for both stroke and cognitive impairment, but it is unclear whether it may specifically affect post-stroke cognitive impairment. We assessed the effect of hypertension and/or stroke on brain injury, cognitive outcome, and the brain transcriptomic profile. C57BL/6J mice (n = 117; 3-5 mo.) received s.c. infusion of either saline or angiotensin II followed by sham surgery or photothrombotic stroke targeting the prefrontal cortex seven days later. Cognitive function was assessed with the Barnes maze and RNA sequencing was used to quantify transcriptomic changes in the brain. Angiotensin II treatment produced spontaneous hemorrhaging after stroke. In the Barnes maze, hypertensive mice that received stroke surgery had an increased escape latency compared to other groups (day 3: hypertensive + stroke = 166.6 ± 6.0 s vs. hypertensive + sham = 122.8 ± 13.8 s vs. normotensive + stroke = 139.9 ± 10.1 s vs. normotensive + sham = 101.9 ± 16.7 s), consistent with impaired cognition. RNA sequencing revealed >1500 differentially expressed genes related to neuroinflammation in hypertensive + stroke vs. normotensive + stroke, which included genes associated with apoptosis, microRNAs, autophagy, anti-cognitive biomarkers and Wnt signaling. Overall, we show that the combination of hypertension and stroke resulted in greater learning impairment and brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- David E Wong Zhang
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tayla A Gibson Hughes
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hericka B Figueiredo Galvao
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cecilia Lo
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Quynh Nhu Dinh
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shenpeng R Zhang
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hyun Ah Kim
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharmalee Selvaraji
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Memory Aging and Cognition Centre, Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andrew N Clarkson
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Thiruma V Arumugam
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Grant Drummond
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher G Sobey
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - T Michael De Silva
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS), La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine, Environment, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
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Deng Y, Ding W, Peng Q, Wang W, Duan R, Zhang Y. Advancement in Beneficial Effects of AVE 0991: A Brief Review. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:139-158. [PMID: 36998128 DOI: 10.2174/1389557523666230328134932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
AVE 0991, a non-peptide analogue of Angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)], is orally active and physiologically well tolerated. Several studies have demonstrated that AVE 0991 improves glucose and lipid metabolism, and contains anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-fibrosis, and anti-oxidant effects. Numerous preclinical studies have also reported that AVE 0991 appears to have beneficial effects on a variety of systemic diseases, including cardiovascular, liver, kidney, cancer, diabetes, and nervous system diseases. This study searched multiple literature databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and the ClinicalTrials.gov website from the establishment to October 2022, using AVE 0991 as a keyword. This literature search revealed that AVE 0991 could play different roles via various signaling pathways. However, the potential mechanisms of these effects need further elucidation. This review summarizes the benefits of AVE 0991 in several medical problems, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper also describes the underlying mechanisms of AVE 0991, giving in-depth insights and perspectives on the pharmaceutical value of AVE 0991 in drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Deng
- School of Basic Medicine & Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Wangli Ding
- School of Basic Medicine & Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Qiang Peng
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210006, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210006, China
| | - Rui Duan
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210006, China
| | - Yingdong Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210006, China
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Lee J, Hong SW, Kim MJ, Moon SJ, Kwon H, Park SE, Rhee EJ, Lee WY. Glucagon-Like Peptide Receptor Agonist Inhibits Angiotensin II-Induced Proliferation and Migration in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Ameliorates Phosphate-Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Calcification. Diabetes Metab J 2024; 48:83-96. [PMID: 38173373 PMCID: PMC10850275 DOI: 10.4093/dmj.2022.0363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGRUOUND Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA), which is a therapeutic agent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system. METHODS To examine the protective effects of GLP-1RAs on proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), A-10 cells exposed to angiotensin II (Ang II) were treated with either exendin-4, liraglutide, or dulaglutide. To examine the effects of GLP-1RAs on vascular calcification, cells exposed to high concentration of inorganic phosphate (Pi) were treated with exendin-4, liraglutide, or dulaglutide. RESULTS Ang II increased proliferation and migration of VSMCs, gene expression levels of Ang II receptors AT1 and AT2, proliferation marker of proliferation Ki-67 (Mki-67), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (Pcna), and cyclin D1 (Ccnd1), and the protein expression levels of phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-Erk), phospho-c-JUN N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), and phospho-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (p-Pi3k). Exendin-4, liraglutide, and dulaglutide significantly decreased the proliferation and migration of VSMCs, the gene expression levels of Pcna, and the protein expression levels of p-Erk and p-JNK in the Ang II-treated VSMCs. Erk inhibitor PD98059 and JNK inhibitor SP600125 decreased the protein expression levels of Pcna and Ccnd1 and proliferation of VSMCs. Inhibition of GLP-1R by siRNA reversed the reduction of the protein expression levels of p-Erk and p-JNK by exendin-4, liraglutide, and dulaglutide in the Ang II-treated VSMCs. Moreover, GLP-1 (9-36) amide also decreased the proliferation and migration of the Ang II-treated VSMCs. In addition, these GLP-1RAs decreased calcium deposition by inhibiting activating transcription factor 4 (Atf4) in Pi-treated VSMCs. CONCLUSION These data show that GLP-1RAs ameliorate aberrant proliferation and migration in VSMCs through both GLP-1Rdependent and independent pathways and inhibit Pi-induced vascular calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinmi Lee
- Institute of Medical Research, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seok-Woo Hong
- Institute of Medical Research, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min-Jeong Kim
- Institute of Medical Research, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sun Joon Moon
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyemi Kwon
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Se Eun Park
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun-Jung Rhee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Won-Young Lee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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6
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Blanco HM, Perez CN, Banchio C, Alvarez SE, Ciuffo GM. Neurite outgrowth induced by stimulation of angiotensin II AT 2 receptors in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells involves c-Src activation. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15656. [PMID: 37144208 PMCID: PMC10151373 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15656] [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: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroblastoma, the most common extracranial solid tumor occurring in childhood, originates from the aberrant proliferation of neural crest cells. Accordingly, the mechanism underling neuronal differentiation could provide new strategies for neuroblastoma treatment. It is well known that neurite outgrowth could be induced by Angiotensin II (Ang II) AT2 receptors; however, the signaling mechanism and its possible interaction with NGF (neural growth factor) receptors remain unclear. Here, we show that Ang II and CGP42112A (AT2 receptor agonist) promote neuronal differentiation by inducing neurite outgrowth and βIII-tubulin expression in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. In addition, we demonstrate that treatment with PD123319 (AT2 receptor antagonist) reverts Ang II or CGP42112A-induced differentiation. By using specific pharmacological inhibitors we established that neurite outgrowth induced by CGP42112A requires the activation of MEK (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase), SphK (sphingosine kinase) and c-Src but not PI3K (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase). Certainly, CGP42112A stimulated a rapid and transient (30 s, 1 min) phosphorylation of c-Src at residue Y416 (indicative of activation), following by a Src deactivation as indicated by phosphorylation of Y527. Moreover, inhibition of the NGF receptor tyrosine kinase A (TrkA) reduced neurite outgrowth induced by Ang II and CGP42112A. In summary, we demonstrated that AT2 receptor-stimulated neurite outgrowth in SH-SY5Y cells involves the induction of MEK, SphK and c-Src and suggests a possible transactivation of TrkA. In that regard, AT2 signaling pathway is a key player in neuronal differentiation and might be a potential target for therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helga M. Blanco
- Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700 San Luis, Argentina
| | - Celia N. Perez
- Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700 San Luis, Argentina
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL), CONICET, Argentina
| | - Claudia Banchio
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR, CONICET) Ocampo y Esmeralda, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), 2000 Rosario, Argentina
| | - Sergio E. Alvarez
- Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700 San Luis, Argentina
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL), CONICET, Argentina
- Corresponding author. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL CONICET), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700 San Luis, Argentina.
| | - Gladys M. Ciuffo
- Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis (UNSL), Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700 San Luis, Argentina
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL), CONICET, Argentina
- Corresponding author. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL CONICET), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700 San Luis, Argentina.
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7
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Steckelings UM, Widdop RE, Sturrock ED, Lubbe L, Hussain T, Kaschina E, Unger T, Hallberg A, Carey RM, Sumners C. The Angiotensin AT 2 Receptor: From a Binding Site to a Novel Therapeutic Target. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:1051-1135. [PMID: 36180112 PMCID: PMC9553111 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Discovered more than 30 years ago, the angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R) has evolved from a binding site with unknown function to a firmly established major effector within the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and a target for new drugs in development. The AT2R represents an endogenous protective mechanism that can be manipulated in the majority of preclinical models to alleviate lung, renal, cardiovascular, metabolic, cutaneous, and neural diseases as well as cancer. This article is a comprehensive review summarizing our current knowledge of the AT2R, from its discovery to its position within the RAS and its overall functions. This is followed by an in-depth look at the characteristics of the AT2R, including its structure, intracellular signaling, homo- and heterodimerization, and expression. AT2R-selective ligands, from endogenous peptides to synthetic peptides and nonpeptide molecules that are used as research tools, are discussed. Finally, we summarize the known physiological roles of the AT2R and its abundant protective effects in multiple experimental disease models and expound on AT2R ligands that are undergoing development for clinical use. The present review highlights the controversial aspects and gaps in our knowledge of this receptor and illuminates future perspectives for AT2R research. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R) is now regarded as a fully functional and important component of the renin-angiotensin system, with the potential of exerting protective actions in a variety of diseases. This review provides an in-depth view of the AT2R, which has progressed from being an enigma to becoming a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Muscha Steckelings
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Robert E Widdop
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Edward D Sturrock
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Lizelle Lubbe
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Tahir Hussain
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Elena Kaschina
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Thomas Unger
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Anders Hallberg
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Robert M Carey
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
| | - Colin Sumners
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark (U.M.S.); Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia (R.E.W.); Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Republic of South Africa (E.D.S., L.L.); Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, Texas (T.H.); Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Pharmacology, Cardiovascular-Metabolic-Renal (CMR) Research Center, DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Berlin, Germany (E.K.); CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (T.U.); Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (A.H.); Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia (R.M.C.); and Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida (C.S.)
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8
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Carnovale C, Perrotta C, Baldelli S, Cattaneo D, Montrasio C, Barbieri SS, Pompilio G, Vantaggiato C, Clementi E, Pozzi M. Antihypertensive drugs and brain function: mechanisms underlying therapeutically beneficial and harmful neuropsychiatric effects. Cardiovasc Res 2022; 119:647-667. [PMID: 35895876 PMCID: PMC10153433 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvac110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A bidirectional relationship exists between hypertension and psychiatric disorders, including unipolar and bipolar depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychosis, schizophrenia, mania, and dementia/cognitive decline. Repurposing of antihypertensive drugs to treat mental disorders is thus being explored. A systematic knowledge of the mechanisms of action and clinical consequences of the use of antihypertensive agents on neuropsychiatric functions has not been achieved yet. In this article, we review the putative role of antihypertensive agents in psychiatric disorders, discuss the targets and mechanisms of action, and examine how and to what extent specific drug classes/molecules may trigger, worsen, or mitigate psychiatric symptoms. In addition, we review pharmacokinetics (brain penetration of drugs) and pharmacogenetics data that add important information to assess risks and benefits of antihypertensive drugs in neuropsychiatric settings. The scientific literature shows robust evidence of a positive effect of α1 blockers on PTSD symptoms, nightmares and sleep quality, α2 agonists on core symptoms, executive function and quality of life in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, PTSD, Tourette's syndrome, and β blockers on anxiety, aggression, working memory, and social communication. Renin-angiotensin system modulators exert protective effects on cognition, depression, and anxiety, and the loop diuretic bumetanide reduced the core symptoms of autism in a subset of patients. There is no evidence of clear benefits of calcium channel blockers in mood disorders in the scientific literature. These findings are mainly from preclinical studies; clinical data are still insufficient or of anecdotal nature, and seldom systematic. The information herewith provided can support a better therapeutic approach to hypertension, tailored to patients with, or with high susceptibility to, psychiatric illness. It may prompt clinical studies exploring the potential benefit of antihypertensive drugs in selected patients with neuropsychiatric comorbidities that include outcomes of neuropsychiatric interest and specifically assess undesirable effects or interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Carnovale
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco University Hospital, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Cristiana Perrotta
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco University Hospital, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Sara Baldelli
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco University Hospital, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Dario Cattaneo
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco University Hospital, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Cristina Montrasio
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco University Hospital, 20157 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia S Barbieri
- Unit of Brain-Heart axis: cellular and molecular mechanisms - Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milano, Italy
| | - Giulio Pompilio
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine - Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Emilio Clementi
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco University Hospital, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy.,Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Marco Pozzi
- Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
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9
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Gouveia F, Camins A, Ettcheto M, Bicker J, Falcão A, Cruz MT, Fortuna A. Targeting brain Renin-Angiotensin System for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease: Past, present and future. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 77:101612. [PMID: 35346852 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a well-known neurodegenerative disease characterized by the presence of two main hallmarks - Tau hyperphosphorylation and Aβ deposits. Notwithstanding, in the last few years the scientific evidence about the drivers of AD have been changing and nowadays age-related vascular alterations and several cardiovascular risk factors have been shown to trigger the development of AD. In this context, drugs targeting the Renin Angiotensin System (RAS), commonly used for the treatment of hypertension, are evidencing a high potential to delay AD development due to their action on brain RAS. Indeed, the ACE 1/Ang II/AT1R axis is believed to be upregulated in AD and to be responsible for deleterious effects such as increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier (BBB) hyperpermeability, astrocytes dysfunction and a decrease in cerebral blood flow. In contrast, the alternative axis - ACE 1/Ang II/AT2R; ACE 2/Ang (1-7)/MasR; Ang IV/ AT4R(IRAP) - seems to counterbalance the deleterious effects of the principal axis and to exert beneficial effects on memory and cognition. Accordingly, retrospective studies demonstrate a reduced risk of developing AD among people taking RAS medication as well as several in vitro and in vivo pre-clinical studies as it is herein critically reviewed. In this review, we first revise, at a glance, the pathophysiology of AD focused on its classic hallmarks. Secondly, an overview about the impact of the RAS on the pathophysiology of AD is also provided, focused on their four essential axes ACE 1/Ang II/AT2R; ACE 2/Ang (1-7)/MasR; Ang IV/ AT4R(IRAP) and ACE 1/Ang II/AT1R. Finally, the therapeutic potential of available drugs targeting RAS on AD, namely angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), is highlighted and data supporting this hope will be presented, from in vitro and in vivo pre-clinical to clinical studies.
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10
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Multiple Aspects of Inappropriate Action of Renin-Angiotensin, Vasopressin, and Oxytocin Systems in Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Diseases. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11040908. [PMID: 35207180 PMCID: PMC8877782 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11040908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The cardiovascular system and the central nervous system (CNS) closely cooperate in the regulation of primary vital functions. The autonomic nervous system and several compounds known as cardiovascular factors, especially those targeting the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), the vasopressin system (VPS), and the oxytocin system (OTS), are also efficient modulators of several other processes in the CNS. The components of the RAS, VPS, and OTS, regulating pain, emotions, learning, memory, and other cognitive processes, are present in the neurons, glial cells, and blood vessels of the CNS. Increasing evidence shows that the combined function of the RAS, VPS, and OTS is altered in neuropsychiatric/neurodegenerative diseases, and in particular in patients with depression, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, autism, and schizophrenia. The altered function of the RAS may also contribute to CNS disorders in COVID-19. In this review, we present evidence that there are multiple causes for altered combined function of the RAS, VPS, and OTS in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, such as genetic predispositions and the engagement of the RAS, VAS, and OTS in the processes underlying emotions, memory, and cognition. The neuroactive pharmaceuticals interfering with the synthesis or the action of angiotensins, vasopressin, and oxytocin can improve or worsen the effectiveness of treatment for neuropsychiatric/neurodegenerative diseases. Better knowledge of the multiple actions of the RAS, VPS, and OTS may facilitate programming the most efficient treatment for patients suffering from the comorbidity of neuropsychiatric/neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.
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11
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The Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor, a Target for Protection and Regeneration of the Peripheral Nervous System? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14030175. [PMID: 33668331 PMCID: PMC7996246 DOI: 10.3390/ph14030175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Preclinical evidence, accumulated over the past decade, indicates that the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) stimulation exerts significant neuroprotective effects in various animal models of neuronal injury, notably in the central nervous system. While the atypical G protein-coupled receptor superfamily nature of AT2R and its related signaling are still under investigation, pharmacological studies have shown that stimulation of AT2R leads to neuritogenesis in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we focus on the potential neuroprotective and neuroregenerative roles of AT2R specifically in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The first section describes the evidence for AT2R expression in the PNS and highlights current controversies concerning the cellular distribution of the receptor. The second section focuses on AT2R signaling implicated in neuronal survival and in neurite outgrowth. The following sections review the relatively few preclinical studies highlighting the putative neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects of AT2R stimulation in the context of peripheral neuropathy.
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12
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Machado TCG, Guatimosim C, Kangussu LM. The Renin-Angiotensin System in Huntington's Disease: Villain or Hero? Protein Pept Lett 2020; 27:456-462. [PMID: 31933441 PMCID: PMC7403685 DOI: 10.2174/0929866527666200110154523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Huntington’s Disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant, progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by severe symptoms, including motor impairment, cognitive decline, and psychiatric alterations. Several systems, molecules, and mediators have been associated with the pathophysiology of HD. Among these, there is the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS), a peptide hormone system that has been associated with the pathology of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Important alterations in this system have been demonstrated in HD. However, the role of RAS components in HD is still unclear and needs further investigation. Nonetheless, modulation of the RAS components may represent a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thatiane C G Machado
- Departamento de Morfologia - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Cristina Guatimosim
- Departamento de Morfologia - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lucas M Kangussu
- Departamento de Morfologia - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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13
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Yao YY, Ling EA, Lu D. Microglia mediated neuroinflammation - signaling regulation and therapeutic considerations with special reference to some natural compounds. Histol Histopathol 2020; 35:1229-1250. [PMID: 32662061 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation plays a central role in multiple neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), cerebral ischemic injury etc. In this connection, microglia, the key players in the central nervous system, mediate the inflammatory response process. In brain injuries, activated microglia can clear the cellular debris and invading pathogens and release neurotrophic factors; however, prolonged microglia activation may cause neuronal death through excessive release of inflammatory mediators. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of microglia activation to design an effective therapeutic strategy to alleviate neuronal injury. Recent studies have shown that some natural compounds and herbal extracts possess anti-inflammatory properties that may suppress microglial activation and ameliorate neuroinflammation and hence are neuroprotective. In this review, we will update some of the common signaling pathways that regulate microglia activation. Among the various signaling pathways, the Notch-1, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) have been reported to exacerbate microglia mediated neuroinflammation that is implicated in different neuropathological diseases. The search for natural compounds or agents, specifically those derived from natural herbal extracts such as Gastrodin, scutellarin, RG1 etc. has been the focus of many of our recent studies because they have been found to regulate microglia activation. The pharmacological effects of these agents and their potential mechanisms for regulating microglia activation are systematically reviewed here for a fuller understanding of their biochemical action and therapeutic potential for treatment of microglia mediated neuropathological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Yi Yao
- Technology Transfer Center, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Eng-Ang Ling
- Department of Anatomy, Young Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Di Lu
- Technology Transfer Center, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.
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14
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Sinapic Acid Attenuates Cardiovascular Disorders in Rats by Modulating Reactive Oxygen Species and Angiotensin Receptor Expression. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:1436858. [PMID: 32765804 PMCID: PMC7374234 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1436858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The main avoidable risk factor for cardiovascular conditions is high blood pressure (hypertension). At global level, hypertension is believed to be responsible for a 54% stroke-related mortality rate and a 47% mortality rate associated with coronary heart disease. It is postulated that sinapic acid (SA) could help in hypertension management because it displays robust antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, and peroxynitrite scavenging effects. To explore this hypothesis, this work examined the effect of SA on oxidative stress and cardiovascular disease in rats with hypertension by comparison against captopril. For this purpose, 50 male rats were used and equally allocated to five groups, namely, normal control, positive control (L-NAME), L-NAME with concomitant captopril administration, L-NAME with concomitant SA administration, and L-NAME with concomitant administration of both SA and captopril. Results showed that, by contrast to control, L-NAME exhibited marked elevation in serum CK-MB, total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL-C, LDL-C, Ang II, AT2R, ET-1, and angiopoietin-2; on the other hand, L-NAME exhibited marked reduction in serum HDL-C, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS3), and glutathione (GSH). Furthermore, joint administration of SA and captopril ameliorated hypertension, enhanced cardiovascular function, hindered hyperlipidemia, and decreased oxidative stress and myocardial hypertrophy displayed by rats with hypertension. Based on such findings, better chemopreventive or therapeutic approaches can be devised to manage hypertension and cardiovascular conditions.
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15
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Pechlivanova D, Krumova E, Kostadinova N, Mitreva-Staleva J, Grozdanov P, Stoynev A. Protective effects of losartan on some type 2 diabetes mellitus-induced complications in Wistar and spontaneously hypertensive rats. Metab Brain Dis 2020; 35:527-538. [PMID: 31997264 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-020-00534-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) is characterized by resistance of insulin receptors and/or inadequate insulin secretion resulting in metabolic and structural complications including vascular diseases, arterial hypertension and different behavioral alterations. We aimed to study the effects of the antihypertensive angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonist losartan on the T2DM-induced changes of exploratory behavior, anxiety, nociception and short term memory in normotensive Wistar and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). The experimental model of T2DM induced by a combination of high fat diet and streptozotocin, decreased exploratory activity and increased the level of carbonylated proteins in selected brain structures in both strains; as well it increased corticosterone level, pain threshold, anxiety-like behavior, and decline short term memory only in SHRs. Losartan treatment alleviated some of the T2DM- induced metabolic complications, abolished the T2DM-induced hypo activity, and normalized the corticosterone level, carbonylated proteins in brain, nociception and memory. Losartan did not exert effect on the anxiety behavior in both strains. We showed that T2DM exerted more pronounced negative effects on the rats with comorbid hypertension as compared to normotensive rats. Overall effects on the studied behavioral parameters are related to decreased exploration of the new environment, increased anxiety-like behavior, and decline in short-term memory. The systemic sub-chronic treatment with an angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonist losartan ameliorated most of these complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Pechlivanova
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 23, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Ekaterina Krumova
- Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 23, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nedelina Kostadinova
- Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 23, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Jeny Mitreva-Staleva
- Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 23, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Petar Grozdanov
- Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Bl. 23, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Alexander Stoynev
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical University-Sofia, St. Georgi Sofiyski Str. 1, 1431, Sofia, Bulgaria
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16
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Benitez SG, Seltzer AM, Messina DN, Foscolo MR, Patterson SI, Acosta CG. Cutaneous inflammation differentially regulates the expression and function of Angiotensin-II types 1 and 2 receptors in rat primary sensory neurons. J Neurochem 2019; 152:675-696. [PMID: 31386177 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neuropathic and inflammatory pain results from cellular and molecular changes in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. The type-2 receptor for Angiotensin-II (AT2R) has been involved in this type of pain. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, including the role of the type-1 receptor for Angiotensin-II (AT1R). Here, we used a combination of immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry, RT-PCR and in vitro and in vivo pharmacological manipulation to examine how cutaneous inflammation affected the expression of AT1R and AT2R in subpopulations of rat DRG neurons and studied their impact on inflammation-induced neuritogenesis. We demonstrated that AT2R-neurons express C- or A-neuron markers, primarily IB4, trkA, and substance-P. AT1R expression was highest in small neurons and co-localized significantly with AT2R. In vitro, an inflammatory soup caused significant elevation of AT2R mRNA, whereas AT1R mRNA levels remained unchanged. In vivo, we found a unique pattern of change in the expression of AT1R and AT2R after cutaneous inflammation. AT2R increased in small neurons at 1 day and in medium size neurons at 4 days. Interestingly, cutaneous inflammation increased AT1R levels only in large neurons at 4 days. We found that in vitro and in vivo AT1R and AT2R acted co-operatively to regulate DRG neurite outgrowth. In vivo, AT2R inhibition impacted more on non-peptidergic C-neurons neuritogenesis, whereas AT1R blockade affected primarily peptidergic nerve terminals. Thus, cutaneous-induced inflammation regulated AT1R and AT2R expression and function in different DRG neuronal subpopulations at different times. These findings must be considered when targeting AT1R and AT2R to treat chronic inflammatory pain. Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14737.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio G Benitez
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología del Dolor, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Alicia M Seltzer
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Embriología e Histología (IHEM-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Diego N Messina
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología del Dolor, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Mabel R Foscolo
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología del Dolor, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Sean I Patterson
- Departamento de Morfofisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina.,Instituto de Histología y Embriología - CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Cristian G Acosta
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología del Dolor, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
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17
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Connolly A, Holleran BJ, Simard É, Baillargeon JP, Lavigne P, Leduc R. Interplay between intracellular loop 1 and helix VIII of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor controls its activation. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 168:330-338. [PMID: 31348898 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The signaling mechanisms of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R), a heptahelical receptor, have not yet been clearly and completely defined. In the present contribution, we set out to identify the molecular determinants involved in AT2R activation. Although AT2R has not been shown to engage Gq/11, G12, Gi2, and β-arrestin (βarr) pathways as does the AT1R upon angiotensin II (AngII) stimulation, the atypical positioning of helix VIII in the recently published AT2R structure may play a role in the receptor's capacity to couple to downstream effectors. In the AT2R structure, helix VIII points inwards and towards intracellular loop 3 (ICL3) to form tertiary interactions with transmembrane domain 6 (TM6), possibly impeding access to signaling effectors. On the other hand, in most class A GPCRs, helix VIII is found to be engaged in tertiary interactions with ICL1 and away from the effector binding site. Upon closer examination of the AT2R structure, we found that the residues contained within intracellular loop 1 (ICL1) may be involved in driving this unusual conformation of helix VIII. To explore this hypothesis, we designed a series of AT1R/AT2R receptor chimeras to validate the roles of ICL1 and helix VIII in AT2R signaling. Substituting the AT1R ICL1 into AT2R led to a mutant receptor that coupled to Gi2. The substitution of the helix VIII and C-terminal domains of AT2R into the AT1R backbone led to a mutant receptor that retained AT1R-like signaling properties. These results suggest that the C-terminal portion of AT2R is compatible with canonical GPCR signaling and that ICL1 of AT2R is involved in repositioning helix VIII, which impedes engagement of classical GPCR effectors such as G proteins or βarrs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Connolly
- Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada; Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Brian J Holleran
- Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada; Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Élie Simard
- Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada; Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Jean-Patrice Baillargeon
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke J1H 5N4, Québec, Canada
| | - Pierre Lavigne
- Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Richard Leduc
- Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada; Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
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18
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Kehoe PG. The Coming of Age of the Angiotensin Hypothesis in Alzheimer's Disease: Progress Toward Disease Prevention and Treatment? J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 62:1443-1466. [PMID: 29562545 PMCID: PMC5870007 DOI: 10.3233/jad-171119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
There is wide recognition of a complex association between midlife hypertension and cardiovascular disease and later development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and cognitive impairment. While significant progress has been made in reducing rates of mortality and morbidity due to cardiovascular disease over the last thirty years, progress towards effective treatments for AD has been slower. Despite the known association between hypertension and dementia, research into each disease has largely been undertaken in parallel and independently. Yet over the last decade and a half, the emergence of converging findings from pre-clinical and clinical research has shown how the renin angiotensin system (RAS), which is very important in blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular disease, warrants careful consideration in the pathogenesis of AD. Numerous components of the RAS have now been found to be altered in AD such that the multifunctional and potent vasoconstrictor angiotensin II, and similarly acting angiotensin III, are greatly altered at the expense of other RAS signaling peptides considered to contribute to neuronal and cognitive function. Collectively these changes may contribute to many of the neuropathological hallmarks of AD, as well as observed progressive deficiencies in cognitive function, while also linking elements of a number of the proposed hypotheses for the cause of AD. This review discusses the emergence of the RAS and its likely importance in AD, not only because of the multiple facets of its involvement, but also perhaps fortuitously because of the ready availability of numerous RAS-acting drugs, that could be repurposed as interventions in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Gavin Kehoe
- Dementia Research Group, Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK
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19
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Krasniqi S, Daci A. Role of the Angiotensin Pathway and its Target Therapy in Epilepsy Management. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030726. [PMID: 30744022 PMCID: PMC6386974 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive research on epileptogenesis, there is still a need to investigate new pathways and targeted therapeutic approaches in this complex process. Inflammation, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, neural cell death, gliosis, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction are the most common causes of epileptogenesis. Moreover, the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) affects the brain’s physiological and pathological conditions, including epilepsy and its consequences. While there are a variety of available pharmacotherapeutic approaches, information on new pathways is in high demand and the achievement of treatment goals is greatly desired. Therefore, targeting the RAS presents an interesting opportunity to better understand this process. This has been supported by preclinical studies, primarily based on RAS enzyme, receptor-inhibition, and selective agonists, which are characterized by pleiotropic properties. Although there are some antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) that interfere with RAS, the main targeted therapy of this pathway contributes in synergy with AEDs. However, the RAS-targeted treatment alone, or in combination with AEDs, requires clinical studies to contribute to, and clarify, the evidence on epilepsy management. There is also a genetic association between RAS and epilepsy, and an involvement of pharmacogenetics in RAS, so there are possibilities for the development of new diagnostic and personalized treatments for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaip Krasniqi
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Prishtina, 10000 Prishtina, Kosovo.
| | - Armond Daci
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Prishtina, 10000 Prishtina, Kosovo.
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20
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Manzur MJ, Aguilera MO, Kotler ML, Berón W, Ciuffo GM. Focal adhesion kinase, RhoA, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase modulates apoptosis mediated by angiotensin II AT 2 receptors. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:1835-1849. [PMID: 30206964 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis plays an important role in cellular processes such as development, differentiation, and homeostasis. Although the participation of angiotensin II (Ang II) AT2 receptors (AT 2 R) in cellular apoptosis is well accepted, the signaling pathway involved in this process is not well established. We evaluated the participation of signaling proteins focal adhesion kinase (FAK), RhoA, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) in apoptosis induced by Ang II via AT 2 R overexpressed in HeLa cells. Following a short stimulation time (120 to 240 minutes) with Ang II, HeLa-AT 2 cells showed nuclear condensation, stress fibers disassembly and membrane blebbing. FAK, classically involved in cytoskeleton reorganization, has been postulated as an early marker of cellular apoptosis. Thus, we evaluated FAK cleavage, detected at early stimulation times (15 to 30 minutes). Apoptosis was confirmed by increased caspase-3 cleavage and enzymatic activity of caspase-3/7. Participation of RhoA was evaluated. HeLa-AT 2 cells overexpressing RhoA wild-type (WT) or their mutants, RhoA V14 (constitutively active form) or RhoA N19 (dominant-negative form) were used to explore RhoA participation. HeLa-AT 2 cells expressing the constitutively active variant RhoA V14 showed enhanced apoptotic features at earlier times as compared with cells expressing the WT variant. RhoA N19 expression prevented nuclear condensation/caspase activation. Inhibition of p38MAPK caused an increase in nuclear condensation and caspase-3/7 activation, suggesting a protective role of p38MAPK. Our results clearly demonstrated that stimulation of AT 2 R induce apoptosis with participation of FAK and RhoA while p38MAPK seems to play a prosurvival role.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Manzur
- Department of Biochemistry and Biological Sci., Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina.,Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas, San Luis (IMIBIO, SL, CONICET), Argentina
| | - Milton O Aguilera
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Mónica L Kotler
- Laboratorio de Disfunción Celular en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas y Nanomedicina, Departamento de Química Biológica, Instituto deQuímica Biológica Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Walter Berón
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Gladys M Ciuffo
- Department of Biochemistry and Biological Sci., Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina.,Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas, San Luis (IMIBIO, SL, CONICET), Argentina
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21
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Arce ME, Sánchez SI, Correa MM, Ciuffo GM. Age-Related Changes in Ang II Receptor Localization and Expression in the Developing Auditory Pathway. Neurochem Res 2018; 44:412-420. [PMID: 30488363 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-018-2687-4] [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: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We studied Ang II receptor localization in different nuclei of the auditory system, by means of binding autoradiography, during brain development. The inferior colliculus (IC), a large midbrain structure which serves as an obligatory synaptic station in both the ascending and descending auditory pathways, exhibited high Ang II AT2 binding at all ages (P0, P8, P15, P30), being maximal at P15. These observations were confirmed by in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence at P15, demonstrating that AT2 receptor mRNA localized at the same area recognized by AT2 antibodies and anti β III-tubulin suggesting the neuronal nature of the reactive cells. Ang II AT1 receptors were absent at early developmental ages (P0) in all nuclei of the auditory system and a low level was observed in the IC at the age P8. AT2 receptors were present at ventral cochlear nucleus and superior olivary complex, being higher at P15 and P8, respectively. We also explored the effect of prenatal administration of Ang II or PD123319 (AT2 antagonist) on binding of Ang II receptors at P0, P8, P15. Both treatments increased significantly the level of AT2 receptors at P0 and P8 in the IC. Although total binding in the whole IC from P15 animals showed no difference between treatments, the central nucleus of the IC exhibited higher binding. Our results supports a correlation between the timing of the higher expression of Ang II AT2 receptors in different nuclei, the onset of audition and the establishment of neuronal circuits of the auditory pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Arce
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL CONICET), Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700, San Luis, Argentina
| | - S I Sánchez
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL CONICET), Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700, San Luis, Argentina
| | - M M Correa
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL CONICET), Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700, San Luis, Argentina
| | - G M Ciuffo
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL CONICET), Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de los Andes 950, 5700, San Luis, Argentina.
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22
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Bhat SA, Sood A, Shukla R, Hanif K. AT2R Activation Prevents Microglia Pro-inflammatory Activation in a NOX-Dependent Manner: Inhibition of PKC Activation and p47phox Phosphorylation by PP2A. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:3005-3023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1272-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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23
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Quiroga DT, Muñoz MC, Gil C, Pffeifer M, Toblli JE, Steckelings UM, Giani JF, Dominici FP. Chronic administration of the angiotensin type 2 receptor agonist C21 improves insulin sensitivity in C57BL/6 mice. Physiol Rep 2018; 6:e13824. [PMID: 30156060 PMCID: PMC6113135 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system modulates insulin action. Angiotensin type 1 receptor exerts a deleterious effect, whereas the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) appears to have beneficial effects providing protection against insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. To further explore the role of the AT2R on insulin action and glucose homeostasis, in this study we administered C57Bl/6 mice with the synthetic agonist of the AT2R C21 for 12 weeks (1 mg/kg per day; ip). Vehicle-treated animals were used as control. Metabolic parameters, glucose, and insulin tolerance, in vivo insulin signaling in main insulin-target tissues as well as adipose tissue levels of adiponectin, and TNF-α were assessed. C21-treated animals displayed decreased glycemia together with unaltered insulinemia, increased insulin sensitivity, and increased glucose tolerance compared to nontreated controls. This was accompanied by a significant decrease in adipocytes size in epididymal adipose tissue and significant increases in both adiponectin and UCP-1 expression in this tissue. C21-treated mice showed an increase in both basal Akt and ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels in the liver, and increased insulin-stimulated Akt activation in adipose tissue. This positive modulation of insulin action induced by C21 appeared not to involve the insulin receptor. In C21-treated mice, adipose tissue and skeletal muscle became unresponsive to insulin in terms of ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels. Present data show that chronic pharmacological activation of AT2R with C21 increases insulin sensitivity in mice and indicate that the AT2R has a physiological role in the conservation of insulin action.
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MESH Headings
- Adipocytes/drug effects
- Adiponectin/metabolism
- Adipose Tissue/metabolism
- Animals
- Blood Glucose/metabolism
- Cell Size/drug effects
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/blood
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/drug therapy
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/blood
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy
- Drug Administration Schedule
- Drug Evaluation, Preclinical/methods
- Glucose Tolerance Test
- Insulin Resistance/physiology
- MAP Kinase Signaling System/physiology
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 2/agonists
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 2/physiology
- Signal Transduction
- Sulfonamides/administration & dosage
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- Thiophenes/administration & dosage
- Thiophenes/pharmacology
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Tomás Quiroga
- Departamento de Química Biológica‐Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (CONICET)Facultad de Farmacia y BioquímicaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Marina C. Muñoz
- Departamento de Química Biológica‐Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (CONICET)Facultad de Farmacia y BioquímicaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Carolina Gil
- Departamento de Química Biológica‐Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (CONICET)Facultad de Farmacia y BioquímicaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Marlies Pffeifer
- Departamento de Química Biológica‐Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (CONICET)Facultad de Farmacia y BioquímicaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Jorge E. Toblli
- Laboratory of Experimental MedicineHospital Alemán de Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Ulrike M. Steckelings
- IMM ‐ Deptartment of Cardiovascular & Renal ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
| | - Jorge F. Giani
- Department of Biomedical SciencesCedars‐Sinai Medical CenterLos AngelesCalifornia
| | - Fernando P. Dominici
- Departamento de Química Biológica‐Instituto de Química y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (CONICET)Facultad de Farmacia y BioquímicaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos AiresArgentina
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24
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Liu SJ, Liu XY, Li JH, Guo J, Li F, Gui Y, Li XH, Yang L, Wu CY, Yuan Y, Li JJ. Gastrodin attenuates microglia activation through renin-angiotensin system and Sirtuin3 pathway. Neurochem Int 2018; 120:49-63. [PMID: 30075231 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Microglia activation and its mediated production of proinflammatory mediators play important roles in different neurodegenerative diseases; hence, modulation of microglia activation has been considered a potential therapeutic strategy to ameliorate neurodegeneration. This study was aimed to determine whether Gastrodin, a common herbal agent known to possess neuroprotective property, can attenuate production of proinflammatory mediators in activated microglia through the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and Sirtuin3 (SIRT3). Expression of various members of the RAS including ACE, AT1, AT2, and SIRT3 in activated microglia was assessed by immunofluorescence and Western blot in hypoxic-ischemia brain damage (HIBD) in postnatal rats, and in BV-2 microglia in vitro challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with or without Gastrodin treatment. Expression of NOX-2, a subunit of NADPH oxidase, and proinflammatory mediators including iNOS and TNF-α, was also evaluated. The present results showed that expression of ACE, AT1, NOX-2, iNOS and TNF-α was markedly increased in activated microglia in the corpus callosum of HIBD rats, and in LPS stimulated BV-2 microglia. Remarkably, the expression was markedly attenuated following Gastrodin treatment. Conversely, Gastrodin enhanced AT2 and SIRT3 protein expression. In BV-2 microglia treated with Azilsartan, a specific inhibitor of AT1 (AT1I group), NOX-2 expression was decreased whereas that of SIRT3 in LPS + AT1I and LPS + Gastrodin group was increased when compared with the controls. In LPS + AT1I + Gastrodin group, SIRT3 expression was further augmented. More importantly, Gastrodin effectively reduced caspase 3 protein expression level in the HIBD rats coupled with a significant decrease in caspase 3 positive cells. We conclude that Gastrodin can exert its protective effects against the hypoxic-ischemia brain damage in the present experimental HIBD model. It is suggested that this is mainly through suppression of expression of RAS (except for AT2 and SIRT3) and proinflammatory mediators e.g. TNF-α in activated microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Jin Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Yu Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Jing-Hui Li
- Second Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Yang Gui
- Second Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Xiu-Hua Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Chun-Yun Wu
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Yun Yuan
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
| | - Juan-Juan Li
- Department of Anatomy and Histology/Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Kunming Medical University, 1168 West Chunrong Road, Kunming, 650500, PR China.
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25
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Chung J, Wang X, Maruyama T, Ma Y, Zhang X, Mez J, Sherva R, Takeyama H, Lunetta KL, Farrer LA, Jun GR. Genome-wide association study of Alzheimer's disease endophenotypes at prediagnosis stages. Alzheimers Dement 2018; 14:623-633. [PMID: 29274321 PMCID: PMC5938137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2017.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genetic associations for endophenotypes of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in cognitive stages preceding AD have not been thoroughly evaluated. METHODS We conducted genome-wide association studies for AD-related endophenotypes including hippocampal volume, logical memory scores, and cerebrospinal fluid Aβ42 and total/phosphorylated tau in cognitively normal (CN), mild cognitive impairment, and AD dementia subjects from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative study. RESULTS In CN subjects, study-wide significant (P < 8.3 × 10-9) loci were identified for total tau near SRRM4 and C14orf79 and for hippocampal volume near MTUS1. In mild cognitive impairment subjects, study-wide significant association was found with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) near ZNF804B for logical memory test of delayed recall scores. We found consistent expression patterns of C14orf40 and MTUS1 in carriers with risk alleles of expression SNPs and in brains of AD patients, compared with in the noncarriers and in brains of controls. DISCUSSION Our findings for AD-related brain changes before AD provide insight about early AD-related biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeyoon Chung
- Bioinformatics Graduate Program, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xulong Wang
- Neurogenetics and Integrated Genomics, Andover Innovative Medicines (AiM) Institute, Eisai Inc, Andover, MA, USA
| | - Toru Maruyama
- Department of Life Science & Medical Bioscience, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan; Computational Bio-Big Data Open Innovation Lab, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yiyi Ma
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jesse Mez
- Department of Neurology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard Sherva
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Haruko Takeyama
- Department of Life Science & Medical Bioscience, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan; Computational Bio-Big Data Open Innovation Lab, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan; Research Organization for Nano & Life Innovation, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Lindsay A Farrer
- Bioinformatics Graduate Program, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biostatistics, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gyungah R Jun
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Neurogenetics and Integrated Genomics, Andover Innovative Medicines (AiM) Institute, Eisai Inc, Andover, MA, USA.
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26
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Jackson L, Eldahshan W, Fagan SC, Ergul A. Within the Brain: The Renin Angiotensin System. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E876. [PMID: 29543776 PMCID: PMC5877737 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19030876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
For many years, modulators of the renin angiotensin system (RAS) have been trusted by clinicians for the control of essential hypertension. It was recently demonstrated that these modulators have other pleiotropic properties independent of their hypotensive effects, such as enhancement of cognition. Within the brain, different components of the RAS have been extensively studied in the context of neuroprotection and cognition. Interestingly, a crosstalk between the RAS and other systems such as cholinergic, dopaminergic and adrenergic systems have been demonstrated. In this review, the preclinical and clinical evidence for the impact of RAS modulators on cognitive impairment of multiple etiologies will be discussed. In addition, the expression and function of different receptor subtypes within the RAS such as: Angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1R), Angiotensin II type II receptor (AT2R), Angiotensin IV receptor (AT4R), Mas receptor (MasR), and Mas-related-G protein-coupled receptor (MrgD), on different cell types within the brain will be presented. We aim to direct the attention of the scientific community to the plethora of evidence on the importance of the RAS on cognition and to the different disease conditions in which these agents can be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- LaDonya Jackson
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
| | - Wael Eldahshan
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
| | - Susan C Fagan
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
| | - Adviye Ergul
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
- Charlie Norwood Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30904, USA.
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Connolly A, Leblanc S, Baillargeon JP. Role of Lipotoxicity and Contribution of the Renin-Angiotensin System in the Development of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int J Endocrinol 2018; 2018:4315413. [PMID: 29971102 PMCID: PMC6008888 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4315413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common and significant condition associated with hyperandrogenism, infertility, low quality of life, and metabolic comorbidities. One possible explanation of PCOS development is cellular dysfunction induced by nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs), that is, lipotoxicity, which could explain both the hyperandrogenemia and insulin resistance that characterize women with PCOS. The literature suggests that androgen biosynthesis may be induced by overexposure of androgen-secreting tissues to NEFA and/or defective NEFA metabolism, leading to lipotoxic effects. Indeed, lipotoxicity could trigger androgenic hyperresponsiveness to insulin, LH, and ACTH. In most PCOS women, lipotoxicity also causes insulin resistance, inducing compensatory hyperinsulinemia, and may thus further increase hyperandrogenemia. Many approaches aimed at insulin sensitization also reduce lipotoxicity and have been shown to treat PCOS hyperandrogenemia. Furthermore, our group and others found that angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) activation is able to improve lipotoxicity. We provided evidence, using C21/M24, that AT2R activation improves adipocytes' size and insulin sensitivity in an insulin-resistant rat model, as well as androgen levels in a PCOS obese rat model. Taken together, these findings point toward the important role of lipotoxicity in PCOS development and of the RAS system as a new target for the treatment of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Connolly
- Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 3001 12e Avenue Nord, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5N4
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 3001 12e Avenue Nord, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Samuel Leblanc
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 3001 12e Avenue Nord, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Jean-Patrice Baillargeon
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, 3001 12e Avenue Nord, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada J1H 5N4
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28
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Khan N, Muralidharan A, Smith MT. Attenuation of the Infiltration of Angiotensin II Expressing CD3 + T-Cells and the Modulation of Nerve Growth Factor in Lumbar Dorsal Root Ganglia - A Possible Mechanism Underpinning Analgesia Produced by EMA300, An Angiotensin II Type 2 (AT 2) Receptor Antagonist. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:389. [PMID: 29200998 PMCID: PMC5696600 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent preclinical and proof-of-concept clinical studies have shown promising analgesic efficacy of selective small molecule angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor antagonists in the alleviation of peripheral neuropathic pain. However, their cellular and molecular mechanism of action requires further investigation. To address this issue, groups of adult male Sprague–Dawley rats with fully developed unilateral hindpaw hypersensitivity, following chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve, received a single intraperitoneal bolus dose of the small molecule AT2 receptor antagonist, EMA300 (10 mg kg-1), or vehicle. At the time of peak EMA300-mediated analgesia (∼1 h post-dosing), groups of CCI-rats administered either EMA300 or vehicle were euthanized. A separate group of rats that underwent sham surgery were also included. The lumbar (L4–L6) dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) were obtained from all experimental cohorts and processed for immunohistochemistry and western blot studies. In vehicle treated CCI-rats, there was a significant increase in the expression levels of angiotensin II (Ang II), but not the AT2 receptor, in the ipsilateral lumbar DRGs. The elevated levels of Ang II in the ipsilateral lumbar DRGs of CCI-rats were at least in part contributed by CD3+ T-cells, satellite glial cells (SGCs) and subsets of neurons. Our findings suggest that the analgesic effect of EMA300 in CCI-rats involves multimodal actions that appear to be mediated at least in part by a significant reduction in the otherwise increased expression levels of Ang II as well as the number of Ang II-expressing CD3+ T-cells in the ipsilateral lumbar DRGs of CCI-rats. Additionally, the acute anti-allodynic effects of EMA300 in CCI-rats were accompanied by rescue of the otherwise decreased expression of mature nerve growth factor (NGF) in the ipsilateral lumbar DRGs of CCI-rats. In contrast, the increased expression levels of TrkA and glial fibrillary acidic protein in the ipsilateral lumbar DRGs of vehicle-treated CCI-rats were not attenuated by a single bolus dose of EMA300. Consistent with our previous findings, there was also a significant decrease in the augmented levels of the downstream mediators of Ang II/AT2 receptor signaling, i.e., phosphorylated-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphorylated-p44/p42 MAPK, in the ipsilateral lumbar DRGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nemat Khan
- UQ Center for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Arjun Muralidharan
- UQ Center for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Maree T Smith
- UQ Center for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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29
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Neuroprotection of bradykinin/bradykinin B2 receptor system in cerebral ischemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 94:1057-1063. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.08.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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30
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Almalki SG, Agrawal DK. ERK signaling is required for VEGF-A/VEGFR2-induced differentiation of porcine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells into endothelial cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2017; 8:113. [PMID: 28499402 PMCID: PMC5429549 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0568-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cell-based therapy that can rejuvenate the endothelium with stimulated adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) is a promising therapeutic strategy for the re-endothelialization of denuded arteries at the stenting site. Previously, we have shown that silencing of MMP-2 and MMP-14 inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor receptor type 2 (VEGFR2) cleavage, and induces differentiation of AMSCs toward the endothelial cell (EC) lineage. In this study, we examined the underlying signaling pathways that regulate differentiation of AMSCs to ECs in vitro through VEGFR2. Methods AMSCs were isolated from porcine abdominal adipose tissue. The isolated AMSCs were characterized by positive expression of CD29, CD44, and CD90 and negative expression of CD11b and CD45. The isolated MSCs were transfected with siRNA to silence MMP-2, MMP-14, and angiotensin receptor 2 (ATR2). Cells were suspended either in endothelial basal media (EBM) or endothelial growth media (EGM) with various treatments. Flow cytometry was performed to examine the expression of EC markers, and western blot analysis was performed to examine the expression and activity of various kinases. Scratch assay was performed to examine the cell migration. Data were analyzed by ANOVA using PRISM GraphPad. Results After 10 days of stimulation for EC differentiation, the morphology of AMSCs changed to a morphology similar to that of ECs. Silencing MMP-2 and MMP-14 resulted in significant decrease in the number of migrated cells compared with the EGM-only group. ATR2 siRNA transfection did not affect the migration and differentiation of AMSCs to ECs. Stimulation of AMSCs for EC differentiation with or without MMP-2 or MMP-14 siRNA resulted in significant increase in p-ERK, and significant decrease in p-JNK. There was no significant change in p-p38 in all three groups compared with the EBM group. ERK inhibition resulted in significant decrease in the expression of EC markers in the EGM, EGM + MMP-2 siRNA, and EGM + MMP-14 siRNA groups. The VEGFR2 kinase inhibitor induced a dose-dependent inhibition of ERK. Conclusion The ERK signaling pathway is critical for VEGF-A/VEGFR2-induced differentiation of AMSCs into ECs. These findings provide new insights into the role of the ERK signaling pathway in AMSC differentiation to ECs for potential clinical use in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami G Almalki
- Department of Clinical and Translational Science, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, 68178, USA
| | - Devendra K Agrawal
- Department of Clinical and Translational Science, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, 68178, USA.
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31
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Zhang H, Han GW, Batyuk A, Ishchenko A, White KL, Patel N, Sadybekov A, Zamlynny B, Rudd MT, Hollenstein K, Tolstikova A, White TA, Hunter MS, Weierstall U, Liu W, Babaoglu K, Moore EL, Katz RD, Shipman JM, Garcia-Calvo M, Sharma S, Sheth P, Soisson SM, Stevens RC, Katritch V, Cherezov V. Structural basis for selectivity and diversity in angiotensin II receptors. Nature 2017; 544:327-332. [PMID: 28379944 PMCID: PMC5525545 DOI: 10.1038/nature22035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin II receptors, AT1R and AT2R, serve as key components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. While AT1R plays a central role in the regulation of blood pressure, the function of AT2R is enigmatic with a variety of reported effects. To elucidate the mechanisms for the functional diversity and ligand selectivity between these receptors, we report crystal structures of the human AT2R bound to an AT2R-selective and an AT1R/AT2R-dual ligand, respectively, capturing the receptor in an active-like conformation. Unexpectedly, helix VIII was found in a non-canonical position, stabilizing the active-like state, but at the same time preventing the recruitment of G proteins/β-arrestins, in agreement with the lack of signaling responses in standard cellular assays. Structure-activity relationship, docking and mutagenesis studies revealed the interactions critical for ligand binding and selectivity. Our results thus provide insights into the structural basis for distinct functions of the angiotensin receptors, and may guide the design of novel selective ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Gye Won Han
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Alexander Batyuk
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, California 94025, USA
| | - Andrii Ishchenko
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Kate L White
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Nilkanth Patel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Anastasiia Sadybekov
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Beata Zamlynny
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 2015 Galloping Hill Road, Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, USA
| | - Michael T Rudd
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | - Kaspar Hollenstein
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | - Alexandra Tolstikova
- Center for Free Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestraße 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Physics, University of Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas A White
- Center for Free Electron Laser Science, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestraße 85, 22607 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mark S Hunter
- Linac Coherent Light Source, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, 2575 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park, California 94025, USA
| | - Uwe Weierstall
- Department of Physics, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- School of Molecular Sciences and Biodesign Center for Applied Structural Discovery, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
| | - Kerim Babaoglu
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | - Eric L Moore
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | - Ryan D Katz
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 503 Louise Lane, North Wales, Pennsylvania 19454, USA
| | - Jennifer M Shipman
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 503 Louise Lane, North Wales, Pennsylvania 19454, USA
| | | | - Sujata Sharma
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 503 Louise Lane, North Wales, Pennsylvania 19454, USA
| | - Payal Sheth
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 2015 Galloping Hill Road, Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, USA
| | - Stephen M Soisson
- MRL, Merck &Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | - Raymond C Stevens
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Vsevolod Katritch
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Vadim Cherezov
- Department of Chemistry, Bridge Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
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32
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Norman BH, McDermott JS. Targeting the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) Pathway in Drug Discovery. Potential Applications to New Therapies for Chronic Pain. J Med Chem 2016; 60:66-88. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6b00964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan H. Norman
- Discovery Chemistry
Research and Technologies and ‡Neurophysiology, Lilly Research Laboratories, A Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Lilly
Corporate Center, Indiana 46285, United States
| | - Jeff S. McDermott
- Discovery Chemistry
Research and Technologies and ‡Neurophysiology, Lilly Research Laboratories, A Division of Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Lilly
Corporate Center, Indiana 46285, United States
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33
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Horowitz M, Umschweif G, Yacobi A, Shohami E. Molecular programs induced by heat acclimation confer neuroprotection against TBI and hypoxic insults via cross-tolerance mechanisms. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:256. [PMID: 26283898 PMCID: PMC4516883 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroprotection following prolonged exposure to high ambient temperatures (heat acclimation HA) develops via altered molecular programs such as cross-tolerance Heat Acclimation-Neuroprotection Cross-Tolerance (HANCT). The mechanisms underlying cross-tolerance depend on enhanced "on-demand" protective pathways evolving during acclimation. The protection achieved is long lasting and limits the need for de novo recruitment of cytoprotective pathways upon exposure to novel stressors. Using mouse and rat acclimated phenotypes, we will focus on the impact of heat acclimation on Angiotensin II-AT2 receptors in neurogenesis and on HIF-1 as key mediators in spontaneous recovery and HANCT after traumatic brain injury (TBI). The neuroprotective consequences of heat acclimation on NMDA and AMPA receptors will be discussed using the global hypoxia model. A behavioral-molecular link will be crystallized. The differences between HANCT and consensus preconditioning will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Horowitz
- Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, The Hebrew University Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gali Umschweif
- Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, The Hebrew University Jerusalem, Israel ; Department of Pharmacology, The Hebrew University Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Assaf Yacobi
- Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, The Hebrew University Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Esther Shohami
- Department of Pharmacology, The Hebrew University Jerusalem, Israel
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Artham S, Fouda AY, El-Remessy AB, Fagan SC. Vascular protective effects of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers: Beyond Blood pressure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 2. [PMID: 26317114 DOI: 10.14800/rci.774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Artham
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, and Georgia Regents University, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Abdelrahman Y Fouda
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, and Georgia Regents University, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Azza B El-Remessy
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, and Georgia Regents University, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Susan C Fagan
- Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, and Georgia Regents University, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA
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35
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Vascular change and opposing effects of the angiotensin type 2 receptor in a mouse model of vascular cognitive impairment. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2015; 35:476-84. [PMID: 25492118 PMCID: PMC4348389 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2014.221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Our aims were to assess the spatiotemporal development of brain pathology in a mouse model of chronic hypoperfusion using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and to test whether the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) can offer therapeutic benefit. For the first time, different patterns of cerebral blood flow alterations were observed in hypoperfused mice that ranged from an immediate and dramatic to a delayed decrease in cerebral perfusion. Diffusion tensor imaging revealed increases in several quantitative parameters in different brain regions that are indicative of white-matter degeneration; this began around 3 weeks after induction of hypoperfusion. While this model may be more variable than previously reported, neuroimaging tools represent a promising way to identify surrogate markers of pathology. Vascular remodelling was observed in hypoperfused mice, particularly in the anterior part of the Circle of Willis. While the angiotensin II receptor type 2 agonist, Compound 21 (C21), did not influence this response, it did promote expansion of the basilar artery in microcoil animals. Furthermore, C21-treated animals exhibited increased brain lymphocyte infiltration, and importantly, C21 had opposing effects on spatial reference memory in hypoperfused and sham mice. These results suggest that the RAS may have a role in vascular cognitive impairment.
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36
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Namsolleck P, Recarti C, Foulquier S, Steckelings UM, Unger T. AT(2) receptor and tissue injury: therapeutic implications. Curr Hypertens Rep 2014; 16:416. [PMID: 24414230 PMCID: PMC3906548 DOI: 10.1007/s11906-013-0416-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in the initiation and progression of tissue injuries in the cardiovascular and nervous systems. The detrimental actions of the AT1 receptor (AT1R) in hypertension and vascular injury, myocardial infarction and brain ischemia are well established. In the past twenty years, protective actions of the RAS, not only in the cardiovascular, but also in the nervous system, have been demonstrated. The so-called protective arm of the RAS includes AT2-receptors and Mas receptors (AT2R and MasR) and is characterized by effects different from and often opposing those of the AT1R. These include anti-inflammation, anti-fibrosis, anti-apoptosis and neuroregeneration that can counterbalance pathological processes and enable recovery from disease. The recent development of novel, small-molecule AT2R agonists offers a therapeutic potential in humans with a variety of clinical indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Namsolleck
- CARIM - School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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37
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Umschweif G, Shabashov D, Alexandrovich AG, Trembovler V, Horowitz M, Shohami E. Neuroprotection after traumatic brain injury in heat-acclimated mice involves induced neurogenesis and activation of angiotensin receptor type 2 signaling. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2014; 34:1381-90. [PMID: 24849663 PMCID: PMC4126099 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2014.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Long-term exposure of mice to mild heat (34°C±1°C) confers neuroprotection against traumatic brain injury (TBI); however, the underling mechanisms are not fully understood. Heat acclimation (HA) increases hypothalamic angiotensin II receptor type 2 (AT2) expression and hypothalamic neurogenesis. Accumulating data suggest that activation of the brain AT2 receptor confers protection against several types of brain pathologies, including ischemia, a hallmark of the secondary injury occurring following TBI. As AT2 activates the same pro-survival pathways involved in HA-mediated neuroprotection (e.g., Akt phosphorylation, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)), we examined the role of AT2 in HA-mediated neuroprotection after TBI. Using an AT2-specific antagonist PD123319, we found that the improvements in motor and cognitive recovery as well as reduced lesion volume and neurogenesis seen in HA mice were all diminished by AT2 inhibition, whereas no significant alternations were observed in control mice. We also found that nerve growth factor/tropomyosin-related kinase receptor A (TrkA), BDNF/TrkB, and HIF-1α pathways are upregulated by HA and inhibited on PD123319 administration, suggesting that these pathways play a role in AT2 signaling in HA mice. In conclusion, AT2 is involved in HA-mediated neuroprotection, and AT2 activation may be protective and should be considered a novel drug target in the treatment of TBI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gali Umschweif
- 1] Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Drug Research, Jerusalem, Israel [2] Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dalia Shabashov
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Drug Research, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Victoria Trembovler
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Drug Research, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michal Horowitz
- Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Esther Shohami
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Institute of Drug Research, Jerusalem, Israel
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38
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Umschweif G, Liraz-Zaltsman S, Shabashov D, Alexandrovich A, Trembovler V, Horowitz M, Shohami E. Angiotensin receptor type 2 activation induces neuroprotection and neurogenesis after traumatic brain injury. Neurotherapeutics 2014; 11:665-78. [PMID: 24957202 PMCID: PMC4121449 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-014-0286-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II receptor type 2 (AT(2)) agonists have been shown to limit brain ischemic insult and to improve its outcome. The activation of AT(2) was also linked to induced neuronal proliferation and differentiation in vitro. In this study, we examined the therapeutic potential of AT(2) activation following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice, a brain pathology that displays ischemia-like secondary damages. The AT(2) agonist CGP42112A was continuously infused immediately after closed head injury (CHI) for 3 days. We have followed the functional recovery of the injured mice for 35 days post-CHI, and evaluated cognitive function, lesion volume, molecular signaling, and neurogenesis at different time points after the impact. We found dose-dependent improvement in functional recovery and cognitive performance after CGP42112A treatment that was accompanied by reduced lesion volume and induced neurogenesis in the neurogenic niches of the brain and also in the injury region. At the cellular/molecular level, CGP42112A induced early activation of neuroprotective kinases protein kinase B (Akt) and extracellular-regulated kinases ½ (ERK½), and the neurotrophins nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor; all were blocked by treatment with the AT(2) antagonist PD123319. Our results suggest that AT(2) activation after TBI promotes neuroprotection and neurogenesis, and may be a novel approach for the development of new drugs to treat victims of TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gali Umschweif
- />Department of Pharmacology, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- />Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Dalia Shabashov
- />Department of Pharmacology, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | | | - Michal Horowitz
- />Laboratory of Environmental Physiology, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Esther Shohami
- />Department of Pharmacology, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
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Chao J, Yang L, Buch S, Gao L. Angiotensin II increased neuronal stem cell proliferation: role of AT2R. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63488. [PMID: 23691054 PMCID: PMC3655161 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II (Ang II), known a potent vasoactive substance in the renin-angiotensin system in the brain, plays a critical role in systemic blood pressure control. However, increasing evidence indicated that the physiological role of Ang II go beyond its vasoactive effect. In the present study, we demonstrated that Ang II type-1 receptor (AT1R) and type-2 receptor (AT2R) were expressed in primary rat hippocampal neuronal stem cells (NSCs). Treatment of rat hippocampal NSCs with Ang II increased cell proliferation. Pretreatment of NSCs with specific AT2R, but not AT1R, antagonist significantly suppressed Ang II-induced cell proliferation. Furthermore, Ang II stimulated ERK and Akt phosphorylation in NSCs. Pretreatment of MEK inhibitor, but not PI3K inhibitor, inhibited Ang II-induced ERK phosphorylation as well as cell proliferation. In addition, stimulation of NSCs with Ang II decreased expression of KV 1.2/KV 3.1 channels and blocked K+ currents which lie downstream of ERK activation. Taken together, these findings underpin the role of AT2R as a novel target that regulates cell proliferation mediated by Ang II with implications for therapeutic intervention for regulation of neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chao
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Shilpa Buch
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Lie Gao
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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