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van Kraaij S, Goeldner RG, Rosenbrock H, Groeneveld GJ, Kremer P, Schaible J, Zambori J, Schultheis C. Effects of the phosphodiesterase 2 inhibitor BI 474121 on central nervous system cyclic guanosine monophosphate concentrations: Translational studies. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 90:2517-2528. [PMID: 38880932 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.16137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Phosphodiesterase 2 (PDE2) regulates intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate and guanosine monophosphate (cAMP/cGMP) levels, which contribute to processes crucial for learning and memory. BI 474121, a potent and selective PDE2 inhibitor, is in development for treating cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia. METHODS The effects of BI 474121 on cGMP concentrations were first assessed in rat cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to demonstrate central nervous system (CNS) and functional target engagement. Next, a Phase I study in healthy participants assessed the pharmacokinetics of BI 474121 in CSF vs. plasma, the pharmacodynamics of BI 474121 by measuring cGMP concentrations in the CSF, and the safety of BI 474121. RESULTS In rats, BI 474121 was associated with a dose-dependent increase (71% at the highest dose tested [3.0 mg kg-1]) in cGMP levels in the CSF relative to vehicle (P < 0.001). In healthy participants, the maximum-measured concentration CSF-to-plasma ratio for BI 474121 exposure was similar following single oral doses of BI 474121 2.5, 10, 20 and 40 mg (dose-adjusted geometric mean: 8.96% overall). BI 474121 2.5-40 mg administration in healthy participants also increased cGMP levels in CSF (maximum exposure-related change from baseline ratio, BI 474121: 1.44-2.20 vs. placebo: 1.26). The most common treatment-emergent adverse event (AE) was mild-to-moderate post-lumbar puncture syndrome, which resolved with standard treatment. No AEs of special interest were observed. CONCLUSIONS BI 474121 crosses the blood-brain barrier to inhibit PDE2, supporting cGMP as a translational marker to monitor CNS target engagement. These findings promote further clinical development of BI 474121. CLINICALTRIALS gov number (NCT04672954).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Holger Rosenbrock
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | | | | | - Jennifer Schaible
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Janos Zambori
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
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Schaible J, Scholz A, Goeldner RG, Yamamura N. Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of the phosphodiesterase 2 inhibitor BI 474121: An overview of phase I randomized trials in healthy volunteers. J Psychopharmacol 2024; 38:807-817. [PMID: 39262288 DOI: 10.1177/02698811241273814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia predicts poor functional outcomes, but currently no efficacious pharmacotherapies are available. AIMS Four phase I trials examined the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of the phosphodiesterase 2 inhibitor BI 474121, along with potential drug-drug interactions. METHODS Trial 1 evaluated single rising doses (SRDs) of BI 474121 versus placebo in healthy males. The influence of drug formulation and food on drug bioavailability was also examined. Trial 2 evaluated SRD of BI 474121 versus placebo in healthy Japanese males. Trial 3 evaluated multiple rising doses of BI 474121 in healthy young (with/without midazolam) and elderly (without midazolam) participants versus placebo. Trial 4 investigated interactions between itraconazole and single-dose BI 474121 in healthy males. RESULTS/OUTCOMES No deaths, serious adverse events (AEs), severe AEs or protocol-specified AEs of special interest were observed. BI 474121 absorbed rapidly during fasting, achieved maximum concentration of analyte in plasma and dose proportionality via tablet formulation, and decreased in a multiphasic manner. BI 474121 steady state occurred within 11 days of multiple oral administration. Multiple doses increased BI 474121 plasma concentrations, but did not alter the time course of plasma concentrations. Urinary excretion of unchanged BI 474121 was negligible. No clinically relevant inhibition or induction of CYP3A4 by BI 474121 was observed. Itraconazole co-administration produced higher exposures of BI 474121 versus BI 474121 alone. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION BI 474121 demonstrated favourable safety and pharmacokinetic profiles in healthy Caucasian and Japanese individuals, supporting further clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Schaible
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Andreas Scholz
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim, Germany
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Li Q, Liao Q, Qi S, Huang H, He S, Lyu W, Liang J, Qin H, Cheng Z, Yu F, Dong X, Wang Z, Han L, Han Y. Opportunities and perspectives of small molecular phosphodiesterase inhibitors in neurodegenerative diseases. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 271:116386. [PMID: 38614063 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116386] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase (PDE) is a superfamily of enzymes that are responsible for the hydrolysis of two second messengers: cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). PDE inhibition promotes the gene transcription by activating cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB), initiating gene transcription of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The procedure exerts neuroprotective profile, and motor and cognitive improving efficacy. From this point of view, PDE inhibition will provide a promising therapeutic strategy for treating neurodegenerative disorders. Herein, we summarized the PDE inhibitors that have entered the clinical trials or been discovered in recent five years. Well-designed clinical or preclinical investigations have confirmed the effectiveness of PDE inhibitors, such as decreasing Aβ oligomerization and tau phosphorylation, alleviating neuro-inflammation and oxidative stress, modulating neuronal plasticity and improving long-term cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China.
| | - Qinghong Liao
- Shandong Kangqiao Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Qingdao, 266033, Shandong, PR China
| | - Shulei Qi
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China
| | - He Huang
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China
| | - Siyu He
- Guizhou Province Engineering Technology Research Center for Chemical Drug R&D, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Weiping Lyu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Jinxin Liang
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China
| | - Huan Qin
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China
| | - Zimeng Cheng
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China
| | - Fan Yu
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China
| | - Xue Dong
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China
| | - Ziming Wang
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China; School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 256699, Shandong, PR China
| | - Lingfei Han
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yantao Han
- Department of Medical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, PR China.
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Wan M, Sun S, Di X, Zhao M, Lu F, Zhang Z, Li Y. Icariin improves learning and memory function in Aβ 1-42-induced AD mice through regulation of the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:117029. [PMID: 37579923 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. is a traditional medicinal Chinese herb that is enriched with flavonoids, which have remarkably high medicinal value. Icariin (ICA) is a marker compound isolated from the total flavonoids of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. It has been shown to improve Neurodegenerative disease, therefore, ICA is probably a potential drug for treating AD. MATERIALS AND METHODS The 6-8-week-old SPF-class male ICR mice were randomly divided into 8 groups for modeling, and then the mice were administered orally with ICA for 21 days. The behavioral experiments were conducted to evaluate if learning and memory behavior were absent in mice, confirming that infusion of Amyloid β-protein (Aβ)1-42 caused significant memory impairment. The morphological changes and damage of neurons in the mice's brains were observed by HE and Nissl staining. The spinous protrusions (dendritic spines) on neuronal dendrites were investigated by Golgi-Cox staining. The molecular mechanism of ICA was examined by Western Blot. The protein docking of ICA and Donepezil with BDNF were analyzed to determine their interaction. RESULTS The behavioral experimental results showed that in Aβ1-42-induced AD mice, the learning and memory abilities were improved after using ICA. At the same time, the low, medium, and high doses of ICA could reduce the content of Aβ1-42 in the hippocampus of AD mice, repair neuronal damage, enhance synaptic plasticity, as well as increase the expression of BDNF, TrκB, CREB, Akt, GAP43, PSD95, and SYN proteins in the hippocampus of mice. However, the effect with high doses of ICA is more pronounced. The high-dose administration of ICA has the best therapeutic effect on AD mice. After administering the inhibitor k252a, the therapeutic effect of ICA was reversed. The macromolecular docking results of ICA and BDNF protein demonstrated a strong interaction of -7.8 kcal/mol, which indicates that ICA plays a therapeutic role in AD mice by regulating the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS The results confirm that ICA can repair neuronal damage, enhance synaptic plasticity, as well as ultimately improve learning and memory impairment through the regulation of the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyu Wan
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengqi Sun
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoke Di
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Minghui Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengjuan Lu
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Li
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China.
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Metkar SK, Yan Y, Lu Y, Lu J, Zhu X, Du F, Xu Y. Phosphodiesterase 2 and Its Isoform A as Therapeutic Targets in the Central Nervous System Disorders. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2024; 23:941-955. [PMID: 37855295 DOI: 10.2174/1871527323666230811093126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic adenosine monophosphates (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) are two essential second messengers, which are hydrolyzed by phosphodiesterase's (PDEs), such as PDE-2. Pharmacological inhibition of PDE-2 (PDE2A) in the central nervous system improves cAMP and cGMP signaling, which controls downstream proteins related to neuropsychiatric, neurodegenerative, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Considering that there are no specific treatments for these disorders, PDE-2 inhibitors' development has gained more attention in the recent decade. There is high demand for developing new-generation drugs targeting PDE2 for treating diseases in the central nervous and peripheral systems. This review summarizes the relationship between PDE-2 with neuropsychiatric, neurodegenerative, and neurodevelopmental disorders as well as its possible treatment, mainly involving inhibitors of PDE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay K Metkar
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Yuqing Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Yue Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Jianming Lu
- Codex BioSolutions Inc. 12358 Parklawn Drive, Suite 250A, Rockville, MD 20852, Maryland
| | - Xiongwei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106; USA
| | - Fu Du
- FD NeuroTechnologies Consulting & Services, Inc., Columbia, MD 21046, Maryland
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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Numakawa T, Kajihara R. Involvement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling in the pathogenesis of stress-related brain diseases. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1247422. [PMID: 37781095 PMCID: PMC10537938 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1247422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF, have critical roles in neuronal differentiation, cell survival, and synaptic function in the peripheral and central nervous system. It is well known that a variety of intracellular signaling stimulated by TrkB, a high-affinity receptor for BDNF, is involved in the physiological and pathological neuronal aspects via affecting cell viability, synaptic function, neurogenesis, and cognitive function. As expected, an alteration of the BDNF/TrkB system is suspected to be one of the molecular mechanisms underlying cognitive decline in cognitive diseases and mental disorders. Recent evidence has also highlighted a possible link between the alteration of TrkB signaling and chronic stress. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that downregulation of the BDNF/TrkB system and chronic stress have a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mental disorders. In this review, we introduce current evidence showing a close relationship between the BDNF/TrkB system and the development of cognition impairment in stress-related disorders, and the possible contribution of the upregulation of the BDNF/TrkB system in a therapeutic approach against these brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadahiro Numakawa
- Department of Cell Modulation, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Kajihara
- Department of Cell Modulation, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Life Science, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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Yan Y, Zhao Y, Lu Y, Acharya AP, Wang W, Zhan CG, Ye J, Du F, Zhu X, Xu Y. Characterization of 2 Novel Phosphodiesterase 2 Inhibitors Hcyb1 and PF-05180999 on Depression- and Anxiety-Like Behavior. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2023; 26:415-425. [PMID: 37208298 PMCID: PMC10289143 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyad020] [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: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phosphodiesterase 2A (PDE2A) represents a novel target for new therapies addressing psychiatric disorders. To date, the development of PDE2A inhibitors suitable for human clinical evaluation has been hampered by the poor brain accessibility and metabolic stability of the available compounds. METHODS Corticosterone (CORT)-induced neuronal cell lesion and restraint stress mouse model were used to measure the neuroprotective effect in cells and antidepressant-like behavior in mice. RESULTS The cell-based assay showed that both Hcyb1 and PF were potent in protecting cells against stress hormone CORT insults by stimulating cAMP and cGMP signaling in hippocampal cells (HT-22). Administration of both compounds before treatment of CORT to cells increased cAMP/cGMP, VASP phosphorylation at Ser239 and Ser157, cAMP response element binding protein phosphorylation at Ser133, and brain derived neurotrophic factor BDNF expression. Further in vivo study showed that both Hcyb1 and PF displayed -antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like effects against restraint stress as indicated by reduced immobility time in the forced swimming and tail suspension tasks as well as increased open arm entries and time spent in open arms and holes visit in elevated plus maze and hole-board tests, respectively. The biochemical study confirmed that these antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like effects of Hcyb1 and PF were related to cAMP and cGMP signaling in the hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS The results extend the previous studies and validate that PDE2A is a tractable target for drug development in the treatment of emotional disorders such as depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Yuhan Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Yue Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Abhinav P Acharya
- Chemical Engineering School for the Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Arizona Center for Drug Discovery, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Chang-Guo Zhan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jianghong Ye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Fu Du
- FD NeuroTechnologies Consulting and Services, Inc., Columbia, Maryland, USA
| | - Xiongwei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Hu S, Shen P, Chen B, Tian SW, You Y. Apelin-13 reduces lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment via promoting glucocorticoid receptor expression and nuclear translocation (Manuscript-revision). Neurosci Lett 2022; 788:136850. [PMID: 36038029 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is usually associated with cognitive decline, which is involved in neurodegenerative diseases. Apelin, a neuropeptide, exerts various biological roles in central nervous system. Recent evidence showed that apelin-13, an active form of apelin, suppresses neuroinflammation and improves cognitive decline in diverse pathological processes. However, the underlying mechanism of apelin-13 in neuroinflammation remains largely unknown. The present study aimed to determine underlying mechanism of apelin-13 on neuroinflammation-related cognitive decline. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) to is used to establish a rat model of neuroinflammation-related cognitive decline. The results showed that apelin-13 inhibits LPS-induced neuroinflammation and improves cognitive impairment. Apelin-13 upregulates the GR level and nuclear translocation in hippocampus of rats. Moreover, glucocorticoid receptor inhibitor RU486 prevents apelin-13-mediated neuroprotective actions on cognitive function. Taken together, apelin-13 could exert a protective effect in neuroinflammation-mediated cognitive impairment via the activation of GR expression and nuclear translocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Hu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Department of Neurology, Haikou, Hainan, 570216, China; Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Brain Research and Transformation, 571199, China; International Center for Aging and Cancer (ICAC), Hainan Medical University, 571199, China
| | - Pei Shen
- Department of Neurology, The First People's Hospital of Changde City, Changde, Hunan, 415000, China
| | - Bin Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Department of Neurology, Haikou, Hainan, 570216, China; Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Brain Research and Transformation, 571199, China; International Center for Aging and Cancer (ICAC), Hainan Medical University, 571199, China
| | - Shao-Wen Tian
- Department of Guangxi Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Neuroscience, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541001, China.
| | - Yong You
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Department of Neurology, Haikou, Hainan, 570216, China; Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Brain Research and Transformation, 571199, China; International Center for Aging and Cancer (ICAC), Hainan Medical University, 571199, China.
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Yan Y, Gao S, Avasthi S, Zhao Y, Ye J, Tao Y, Wang W, Zhu X, Du F, O'Donnell JM, Xu Y. Protective effects of phosphodiesterase 2 inhibitor against Aβ 1-42 induced neuronal toxicity. Neuropharmacology 2022; 213:109128. [PMID: 35588859 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Our previous study suggested that inhibition of Phosphodiesterase 2 ameliorates memory loss upon exposure to oxidative stress. While whether memory enhancing effects of PDE2 inhibition on Alzheimer's disease mouse model are involved in antioxidant defense and neuronal remodeling, are largely unexplored. The present study addressed whether and how PDE2 inhibitor Bay 60-7550 rescued Aβ oligomers (Aβo)-induced neuronal damage and memory impairment. The results suggested that exposure of primary cortical neurons to Aβo induced neuronal cells damage and increased PDE2 expression, which were paralleled to an increase in the oxidative parameter malondialdehyde (MDA) level and cellular apoptosis. However, this Aβo-induced oxidative damage was blocked by pre-treatment with protein kinase A or G (PKA or PKG) inhibitor, suggesting the involvement of cAMP/cGMP signaling. Moreover, microinjection of Aβo into the prefrontal cortex of mice increased the MDA level; while Bay 60-7550 reversed this effect and increased antioxidant and anti-apoptotic factors, i.e. increased trolox-equivalent-antioxidant capacity and Bcl-2/Bax ratio. Bay 60-7550 also rescued Aβo-induced synaptic atrophy and memory deficits, as evidenced by the increased synaptic proteins' levels and spine density in the prefrontal cortex, and improved cognitive behaviors by decreased working memory errors in the eight-arm maze and increased discrimination index in the novel object recognition test. These findings suggest that inhibition of PDE2 contributes to antioxidant defense and neuronal remodeling by regulation of cAMP/cGMP signaling, which provide a theoretical basis for the future use of PDE2 inhibitors as the anti-AD drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07101, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - Shichao Gao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - Shivani Avasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - Yuhan Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - Jianghong Ye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07101, USA
| | - Yuanxiang Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07101, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Xiongwei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Fu Du
- FD Neurotechnologies, Inc., Elicott City, MD, 21041, USA
| | - James M O'Donnell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14214, USA
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07101, USA.
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Xi M, Sun T, Chai S, Xie M, Chen S, Deng L, Du K, Shen R, Sun H. Therapeutic potential of phosphodiesterase inhibitors for cognitive amelioration in Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 232:114170. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Shi J, Li Y, Zhang Y, Chen J, Gao J, Zhang T, Shang X, Zhang X. Baicalein Ameliorates Aβ-Induced Memory Deficits and Neuronal Atrophy via Inhibition of PDE2 and PDE4. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:794458. [PMID: 34966284 PMCID: PMC8711762 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.794458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of phosphodiesterase 2 and 4 (PDE2A and PDE4) increases the intracellular cAMP and/or cGMP levels, which may prevent Amyloid β 42 oligomers (Aβ) related cognitive impairment and dementias. Baicalein, one of natural flavones found in the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, has a wide range of pharmacological activities including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, no studies suggest whether baicalein mediated anti-Alzheimer’s disease (AD) events involve PDEs subtypes-mediated neuroprotective pathways. The present study examined whether memory enhancing effects of baicalein on Aβ- induced cognitive impairment are related to regulating neuroplasticity via PDE2 and PDE4 subtypes dependent cAMP/cGMP neuroprotective pathway. The results suggested that microinjected of Aβ into CA1 of hippocampus induced cognitive and memory impairment in mice, as evidenced by decreased recognition index in the novel object recognition (NOR) task, impaired memory acquisition, retention and retrieval in the Morris water maze (MWM) and shuttle box tests. These effects were reversed by treatment with baicalein for 14 days. Moreover, Aβ-induced neuronal atrophy and decreased expression of two synaptic proteins, synaptophysin and PSD 95, were prevented by baicalein. The increased expression of PDE2A and PDE4 subtypes (PDE4A, PDE4B and PDE4D), and decreased levels of cAMP/cGMP, pCREB/CREB and BDNF induced by Aβ were also blocked by chronic treatment of baicalein for 14 days. These findings suggest that baicalein’s reversal of Aβ-induced memory and cognitive disorder may involve the regulation of neuronal remodeling via regulation of PDE2/PDE4 subtypes related cAMP/cGMP -pCREB-BDNF pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Shi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianqing Gao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tianyuan Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoguang Shang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Materia Medica, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangnan Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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12
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Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Dihydropyranopyrazole Derivatives as Novel PDE2 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26103034. [PMID: 34069639 PMCID: PMC8160813 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26103034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase 2 (PDE2) has been regarded as a novel target for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study, we obtained (R)-LZ77 as a hit compound with moderate PDE2 inhibitory activity (IC50 = 261.3 nM) using a high-throughput virtual screening method based on molecular dynamics. Then, we designed and synthesized 28 dihydropyranopyrazole derivatives as PDE2 inhibitors. Among them, compound (+)-11h was the most potent PDE2 inhibitor, with an IC50 value of 41.5 nM. The molecular docking of PDE2-(+)-11h reveals that the 4-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl)oxyl side chain of the compound enters the H-pocket and forms strong hydrophobic interactions with L770/L809/F862, which improves inhibitory activity. The above results may provide insight for further structural optimization of highly potent PDE2 inhibitors and may lay the foundation for their use in the treatment of AD.
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13
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Marchetta P, Rüttiger L, Hobbs AJ, Singer W, Knipper M. The role of cGMP signalling in auditory processing in health and disease. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:2378-2393. [PMID: 33768519 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
cGMP is generated by the cGMP-forming guanylyl cyclases (GCs), the intracellular nitric oxide (NO)-sensitive (soluble) guanylyl cyclase (sGC) and transmembrane GC (e.g. GC-A and GC-B). In summarizing the particular role of cGMP signalling for hearing, we show that GC generally do not interfere significantly with basic hearing function but rather sustain a healthy state for proper temporal coding, fast discrimination and adjustments during injury. sGC is critical for the integrity of the first synapse in the ascending auditory pathway, the inner hair cell synapse. GC-A promotes hair cell stability under stressful conditions such as acoustic trauma or ageing. GC-B plays a role in the development of efferent feed-back and gain control. Regarding the crucial role hearing has for language development, speech discrimination and cognitive brain functions, differential pharmaceutical targeting of GCs offers therapeutic promise for the restoration of hearing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philine Marchetta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lukas Rüttiger
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Adrian J Hobbs
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Wibke Singer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre (THRC), Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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14
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Gorny N, Kelly MP. Alterations in cyclic nucleotide signaling are implicated in healthy aging and age-related pathologies of the brain. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2021; 115:265-316. [PMID: 33706951 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2020.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
It is not only important to consider how hormones may change with age, but also how downstream signaling pathways that couple to hormone receptors may change. Among these hormone-coupled signaling pathways are the 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) intracellular second messenger cascades. Here, we test the hypothesis that dysfunction of cAMP and/or cGMP synthesis, execution, and/or degradation occurs in the brain during healthy and pathological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Although most studies report lower cyclic nucleotide signaling in the aged brain, with further reductions noted in the context of age-related diseases, there are select examples where cAMP signaling may be elevated in select tissues. Thus, therapeutics would need to target cAMP/cGMP in a tissue-specific manner if efficacy for select symptoms is to be achieved without worsening others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Gorny
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michy P Kelly
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.
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15
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Delhaye S, Bardoni B. Role of phosphodiesterases in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:4570-4582. [PMID: 33414502 PMCID: PMC8589663 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-00997-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are enzymes involved in the homeostasis of both cAMP and cGMP. They are members of a family of proteins that includes 11 subfamilies with different substrate specificities. Their main function is to catalyze the hydrolysis of cAMP, cGMP, or both. cAMP and cGMP are two key second messengers that modulate a wide array of intracellular processes and neurobehavioral functions, including memory and cognition. Even if these enzymes are present in all tissues, we focused on those PDEs that are expressed in the brain. We took into consideration genetic variants in patients affected by neurodevelopmental disorders, phenotypes of animal models, and pharmacological effects of PDE inhibitors, a class of drugs in rapid evolution and increasing application to brain disorders. Collectively, these data indicate the potential of PDE modulators to treat neurodevelopmental diseases characterized by learning and memory impairment, alteration of behaviors associated with depression, and deficits in social interaction. Indeed, clinical trials are in progress to treat patients with Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, depression, and autism spectrum disorders. Among the most recent results, the application of some PDE inhibitors (PDE2A, PDE3, PDE4/4D, and PDE10A) to treat neurodevelopmental diseases, including autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability, is a significant advance, since no specific therapies are available for these disorders that have a large prevalence. In addition, to highlight the role of several PDEs in normal and pathological neurodevelopment, we focused here on the deregulation of cAMP and/or cGMP in Down Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and intellectual disability associated with the CC2D1A gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Delhaye
- grid.429194.30000 0004 0638 0649Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS UMR7275, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Barbara Bardoni
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, CNRS UMR7275, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, 06560, Valbonne, France.
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16
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Lee H, Koh JY. Roles for H + /K + -ATPase and zinc transporter 3 in cAMP-mediated lysosomal acidification in bafilomycin A1-treated astrocytes. Glia 2020; 69:1110-1125. [PMID: 33314298 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Vacuolar ATPase (v-ATPase) is the main proton pump that acidifies vesicles such as lysosomes. Disruption in the lysosomal localization of v-ATPase leads to lysosomal dysfunction, thus contributing to the pathogenesis of lysosomal storage disorders and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Recent studies showed that increases in cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels acidify lysosomes and consequently enhance autophagy flux. Although the upregulation of v-ATPase function may be the key mechanism underlying the cAMP-mediated lysosomal acidification, it is unknown whether a mechanism independent of v-ATPase may be contributing to this phenomenon. In the present study, we modeled v-ATPase dysfunction in brain cells by blocking lysosomal acidification in cortical astrocytes through treatment with bafilomycin A1, a selective v-ATPase inhibitor. We observed that cAMP reversed the pH changes via the activation of protein kinase A; interestingly, cAMP also increased autophagy flux even in the presence of bafilomycin A1, suggesting the presence of an alternative route of proton entry. Notably, pharmacological inhibitors and siRNAs of H+ /K+ -ATPase markedly shifted the lysosomal pH toward more alkaline values in bafilomycin A1/cAMP-treated astrocytes, suggesting that H+ /K+ -ATPase may be the alternative route of proton entry for lysosomal acidification. Furthermore, the cAMP-mediated reversal of lysosomal pH was nullified in the absence of ZnT3 that interacts with H+ /K+ -ATPase. Our results suggest that the H+ /K+ -ATPase/ZnT3 complex is recruited to lysosomes in a cAMP-dependent manner and functions as an alternative proton pump for lysosomes when the v-ATPase function is downregulated, thus providing insight into the potential development of a new class of lysosome-targeted therapeutics in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huikyong Lee
- Neural Injury Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jae-Young Koh
- Neural Injury Laboratory, Biomedical Research Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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17
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Lv J, Chen L, Zhu N, Sun Y, Pan J, Gao J, Liu J, Liu G, Tao Y. Beta amyloid-induced time-dependent learning and memory impairment: involvement of HPA axis dysfunction. Metab Brain Dis 2020; 35:1385-1394. [PMID: 32860609 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-020-00613-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Aβ aggregation is one of the pathological biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the possible mechanism related to Aβ-induced pathological signaling pathway is still unknown. In the present study, Aβ1-42-induced time-dependent memory impairment and its possible relationship to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hyperactivity were examined. Aβ1-42-treated mice significantly impaired acquisition activity in the learning curve at 10 days, 1 and 4 months in the Morris water-maze (MWM) task. This learning activity was back to normal at 8 months after Aβ1-42 treatment. In the probe trial test, Aβ1-42-treated mice needed longer latencies to touch the precious platform location and fewer numbers of crossing from 10 days to 4 months after microinjection. This Aβ1-42 induced memory loss was consistent with the results of the step-down passive avoidance test. The HPA axis related parameters, such as corticosterone (CORT) level in the serum, glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and corticotropin-releasing factor receptor (CRF-R) expression in the frontal cortex and hippocampus increased in Aβ1-42-treated mice from 10 days to 4 months. While the downstream molecules phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding (pCREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression decreased during this time. These effects were back to normal 8 months after treatment with Aβ1-42. Altogether, our results suggested that Aβ1-42 induced significant learning and memory impairment, which is involved in HPA axis dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinpeng Lv
- College of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Life Sciences, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213000, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310006, People's Republic of China
| | - Naping Zhu
- Brain Institute, School of Pharmacy, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yindi Sun
- Department of Traditional Medical Orthopedics, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710054, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianchun Pan
- Brain Institute, School of Pharmacy, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Jinsheng Gao
- Department of Oncology, Shanxi Province Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, 030000, China
| | - Jianwu Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Life Sciences, Changzhou University, Changzhou, 213000, China
| | - Guangjun Liu
- The Second People's Hospital of Changzhou, Affiliate Hospital of NanJing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, China.
| | - Yuanxiang Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.
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