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Hasler G, Inta D. Emerging Perspectives on Neuroprotection. PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOSOMATICS 2024; 93:285-291. [PMID: 39154647 DOI: 10.1159/000540032] [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: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Neuroprotection aims to safeguard neurons from damage caused by various factors like stress, potentially leading to the rescue, recovery, or regeneration of the nervous system and its functions [J Clin Neurosci. 2002;9(1):4-8]. Conversely, neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to adapt and change throughout life, involving structural and functional alterations in cells and synaptic transmission [Neural Plast. 2014;2014:541870]. Neuroprotection is a broad and multidisciplinary field encompassing various approaches and strategies aimed at preserving and promoting neuronal health. It is a critical area of research in neuroscience and neurology, with the potential to lead to new therapies for a wide range of neurological disorders and conditions. Neuroprotection can take various forms and may involve pharmacological agents, lifestyle modifications, or behavioral interventions. Accordingly, also the perspective and the meaning of neuroprotection differs due to different angles of interpretation. The primary interpretation is from the pharmacological point of view since the most consistent data come from this field. In addition, we will discuss also alternative, yet less considered, perspectives on neuroprotection, focusing on specific neuroprotective targets, interactions with surrounding microglia, different levels of neuroprotective effects, the reversive/adaptative dimension, and its use as anticipatory/prophylactic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Hasler
- Molecular Psychiatry Lab, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Villars-sur-Glâne, Switzerland
- Freiburg Mental Health Network, Villars-sur-Glâne, Switzerland
- Lake Lucerne Institute, Vitznau, Switzerland
| | - Dragos Inta
- Translational Psychiatry, Department of Community Health, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Food Research and Innovation Center (FRIC), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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2
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Jia Y, Zhang X, Wang Y, Liu Y, Dai J, Zhang L, Wu X, Zhang J, Xiang H, Yang Y, Zeng Z, Chen Y. Knocking out Selenium Binding Protein 1 Induces Depressive-Like Behavior in Mice. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:3149-3162. [PMID: 37801218 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03894-8] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Selenium binding protein 1 (SELENBP1) is involved in neurologic disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and schizophrenia. However, the role of SELENBP1 in the neurogenesis of depression, which is a neurologic disorder, and the underlying mechanisms of oxidative stress and inflammation in depression remain unknown. In this study, we evaluated the changes in the expression levels of SELENBP1 in the hippocampus of a mouse model of depression and in the serum of human patients with depression using the Gene Expression Omnibus database. These changes were validated using blood samples from human patients with depression and mouse models with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depressive-like behavior. We also investigated the effects of SELENBP1 knockout (KO) on inflammation, oxidative stress, and hippocampal neurogenesis in mice with CUMS-induced depression. Our results revealed that SELENBP1 levels was decreased in the blood of human patients with depression and in the hippocampus of mice with CUMS-induced depression. SELENBP1 KO increased CUMS-induced depressive behavior in mice and caused dysregulation of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. This led to a decrease in the numbers of doublecortin- and Ki67-positive cells, which might aggravate CUMS-induced depressive symptoms. These findings suggest that SELENBP1 might be involved in the regulation of neurogenesis in mice with depression and could be served as a potential target for diagnosing and treating depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jia
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
- Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Biology and Medical Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Biology and Medical Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yongmei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Biology and Medical Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Biology and Medical Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Jie Dai
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Biology and Medical Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Liangliang Zhang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, 550002, Guizhou, China
| | - Xian Wu
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guiyang, 550002, Guizhou, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Laboratory, the Second People's Hospital of Guizhou Province, Guiyang, 550004, Guizhou, China
| | - Hongxi Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Biology and Medical Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yanping Yang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Zhu Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Cellular Immunotherapy Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Key Laboratory of Biology and Medical Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yulian Chen
- Mental Health Education and Counseling Center for College Students, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
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3
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Wang Z, Zhang L, Yang J, Zeng Y, Su C, Yao M, Zhang H, Hu W, Liu Y, Lai Y, Wang X, Zeng J, Liu R. Chronic stress induces Alzheimer's disease-like pathologies through DNA damage-Chk1-CIP2A signaling. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:9168-9187. [PMID: 38819231 PMCID: PMC11164505 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205862] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Stress is an important initiating factor in promoting Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. However, the mechanism by which stress induces AD-like cognitive impairment remains to be clarified. Here, we demonstrate that DNA damage is increased in stress hormone Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-treated cells and in brains of mice exposed to chronic restraint stress. Accumulation of DNA damage drives activation of cell cycle checkpoint protein kinase 1 (Chk1), upregulation of cancerous inhibitor of PP2A (CIP2A), tau hyperphosphorylation, and Aβ overproduction, eventually resulting in synaptic impairment and cognitive deficits. Pharmacological intervention targeting Chk1 by specific inhibitor and DNA damage by vitamin C, suppress DNA damage-Chk1-CIP2A signaling pathway in chronic stress animal model, which in turn attenuate AD-like pathologies, synaptic impairments and cognitive deficits. Our study uncovers a novel molecular mechanism of stress-induced AD-like pathologies and provides effective preventive and therapeutic strategies targeting this signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoqun Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lun Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiayu Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengke Su
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengdong Yao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiliang Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenting Hu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Pathology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiwen Lai
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaochuan Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ji Zeng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education/Hubei Province for Neurological Disorders, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute for Brain Research, Wuhan Center of Brain Science, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Ma W, Geng Y, Liu Y, Pan H, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Wang L. The mechanisms of white matter injury and immune system crosstalk in promoting the progression of Parkinson's disease: a narrative review. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1345918. [PMID: 38863783 PMCID: PMC11165104 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1345918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is neurodegenerative disease in middle-aged and elderly people with some pathological mechanisms including immune disorder, neuroinflammation, white matter injury and abnormal aggregation of alpha-synuclein, etc. New research suggests that white matter injury may be important in the development of PD, but how inflammation, the immune system, and white matter damage interact to harm dopamine neurons is not yet understood. Therefore, it is particularly important to delve into the crosstalk between immune cells in the central and peripheral nervous system based on the study of white matter damage in PD. This crosstalk could not only exacerbate the pathological process of PD but may also reveal new therapeutic targets. By understanding how immune cells penetrate through the blood-brain barrier and activate inflammatory responses within the central nervous system, we can better grasp the impact of structural destruction of white matter in PD and explore how this process can be modulated to mitigate or combat disease progression. Microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and peripheral immune cells (especially T cells) play a central role in its pathological process where these immune cells produce and respond to pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-1β(IL-1β) and interleukin-6(IL-6), and white matter injury causes microglia to become pro-inflammatory and release inflammatory mediators, which attract more immune cells to the damaged area, increasing the inflammatory response. Moreover, white matter damage also causes dysfunction of blood-brain barrier, allows peripheral immune cells and inflammatory factors to invade the brain further, and enhances microglia activation forming a vicious circle that intensifies neuroinflammation. And these factors collectively promote the neuroinflammatory environment and neurodegeneration changes of PD. Overall, these findings not only deepen our understanding of the complexity of PD, but also provide new targets for the development of therapeutic strategies focused on inflammation and immune regulation mechanisms. In summary, this review provided the theoretical basis for clarifying the pathogenesis of PD, summarized the association between white matter damage and the immune cells in the central and peripheral nervous systems, and then emphasized their potential specific mechanisms of achieving crosstalk with further aggravating the pathological process of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Ma
- Graduate School of Education, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yifan Geng
- Xuzhou Clinical School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Youhan Liu
- Graduate School of Education, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Huixin Pan
- Graduate School of Education, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qinglu Wang
- Graduate School of Education, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yaohua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering & Technology of Shandong High School, Qilu Medical University, Zibo, China
| | - Liping Wang
- Graduate School of Education, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Chen S, Wang K, Wang H, Gao Y, Nie K, Jiang X, Su H, Tang Y, Lu F, Dong H, Wang Z. The therapeutic effects of saikosaponins on depression through the modulation of neuroplasticity: From molecular mechanisms to potential clinical applications. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107090. [PMID: 38309381 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107090] [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] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Depression is a major global health issue that urgently requires innovative and precise treatment options. In this context, saikosaponin has emerged as a promising candidate, offering a variety of therapeutic benefits that may be effective in combating depression. This review delves into the multifaceted potential of saikosaponins in alleviating depressive symptoms. We summarized the effects of saikosaponins on structural and functional neuroplasticity, elaborated the regulatory mechanism of saikosaponins in modulating key factors that affect neuroplasticity, such as inflammation, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, oxidative stress, and the brain-gut axis. Moreover, this paper highlights existing gaps in current researches and outlines directions for future studies. A detailed plan is provided for the future clinical application of saikosaponins, advocating for more targeted researches to speed up its transition from preclinical trials to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Chen
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Ke Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Hongzhan Wang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Kexin Nie
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xinyue Jiang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Hao Su
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yueheng Tang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Fuer Lu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Hui Dong
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
| | - Zhi Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
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Tüfekci KK, Tatar M, Terzi F, Bakirhan EG. An investigation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress in obesity exposure in the prenatal period. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 134:102348. [PMID: 37858742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102348] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Exposure to maternal obesity has been shown to make offspring more prone to cognitive and metabolic disorders later in life. Although the underlying mechanisms are unclear, the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the fetal programming process is remarkable. ER stress can be activated by many chronic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the role of ER stress caused by maternal diet-induced obesity in the offspring hippocampus. We also evaluated the protective effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against ER stress. METHODS A rat obesity model was created by providing a high-fat (60 % kcal) diet. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was administered at a dosage of 150 mg/kg via the intragastric route. The animals were mated at the age of 12 weeks. The same diet was maintained during pregnancy and lactation. The experiment was terminated on the postnatal 28th day, and the offspring's brain tissues were examined. Immunohistochemical staining for ER stress markers was performed on sections taken from tissues after routine histological procedures. RESULTS The results revealed increased GRP78, PERK, and eIF2α immunoreactivities in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) and cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) regions in the obese group offspring, while the expression of those markers in those regions normalized with NAC supplementation (p < 0.01). Statistical analysis of XBP1 immunoreactivity H-scores revealed no difference between the study groups (p > 0.05). DISCUSSION These results suggest that exposure to obesity during the prenatal period may cause increased ER stress in hippocampal neurons, which have an important role in the regulation of learning, memory and behavior, and this may contribute to decreased cognitive performance. On the other hand, NAC stands out as an effective agent that can counteract hippocampal ER stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kıymet Kübra Tüfekci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Kastamonu University, Turkiye.
| | - Musa Tatar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kastamonu University, Turkiye
| | - Funda Terzi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kastamonu University, Turkiye
| | - Elfide Gizem Bakirhan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Adıyaman University, Turkiye
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Yang T, Du X, Xu L. Radioprotective effect of Ginkgolide B on brain: the mediating role of DCC/MST1 signaling. Int J Radiat Biol 2023; 100:371-384. [PMID: 37934907 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2281515] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The risk of brain exposure to ionizing radiation increases gradually due to the extensive application of nuclear technology in medical, industrial, and aerospace fields. Radiation-induced brain injury (RBI) is highly likely to cause a wide range of neurological complications, including schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), depression. Ginkgolide B (GB) is one of the effective active components extracted from ginkgo biloba leaves, exerts protective effects on CNS, which is involved in the regulation of the Hippo signaling pathway. MST1, as one of the core kinases of the Hippo pathway, participated in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. However, it remains unclear whether GB attenuates radiation brain injury (RBI) and whether the radioprotective effect of GB refers to MST1 signaling. Hence, our study aimed to explore the radiation protection effect and the potential mechanism of GB. MATERIALS AND METHODS C57BL/6 mice were stimulated with an X-ray (20 Gy) to establish an RBI model. Then, morris water maze test (MWM) and step-down passive avoidance test (SDPAT) were used to assess the learning and memory function of mice. The open field test (OFT), tail suspension test (TST), and forced swimming test (FST) were used to assess changes in locomotor activity and hopelessness. Besides, X-ray-stimulated SH-SY5Y cells were used to verify the radioprotective effect of GB. Immunofluorescence double staining, Dihydroethidium (DHE), western blot, and flow cytometry were used to explore the role of DCC/MST1 signaling in RBI. RESULTS In this study, X-ray-treated mice exhibited cognitive impairment and depression-like behavior, which was ameliorated by GB treatment. GB also reduced the ROS production and the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the hippocampus. Moreover, GB increased the protein levels of p-AKT and Bcl2, while decreased the protein levels of MST1, p-p38, p-JNK, cleaved-caspase-3 and Bax both in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, exogenous Netrin-1 alleviated X-ray-induced ROS production and apoptosis, whereas knockout of Netrin-1 receptor DCC abolished the protective effect of GB. CONCLUSION Oxidative stress and MST1-mediated neuronal apoptosis participated in radiation-induced cognitive impairment and depression-like behaviors, and modulation of DCC by GB was an effective intervention against RBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Radiotherapy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao Du
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lixing Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Inflammation and Molecular Drug Targets, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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Zhang K, Zhang C, Teng X, Wang K, Chen M. Bioinformatics and computational chemistry approaches to explore the mechanism of the anti-depressive effect of ligustilide. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5417. [PMID: 37012370 PMCID: PMC10070278 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32495-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression affects people with multiple adverse outcomes, and the side effects of antidepressants are troubling for depression sufferers. Aromatic drugs have been widely used to relieve symptoms of depression with fewer side effects. Ligustilide (LIG) is the main component of volatile oil in angelica sinensis, exhibiting an excellent anti-depressive effect. However, the mechanisms of the anti-depressive effect of LIG remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the mechanisms of LIG exerting an anti-depressive effect. We obtained 12,969 depression-related genes and 204 LIG targets by a network pharmacology approach, which were intersected to get 150 LIG anti-depressive targets. Then, we identified core targets by MCODE, including MAPK3, EGF, MAPK14, CCND1, IL6, CASP3, IL2, MYC, TLR4, AKT1, ESR1, TP53, HIF1A, SRC, STAT3, AR, IL1B, and CREBBP. Functional enrichment analysis of core targets showed a significant association with PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling pathways. Molecular docking showed strong affinities of LIG with AKT1, MAPK14, and ESR1. Finally, we validated the interactions between these proteins and LIG by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In conclusion, this study successfully predicted that LIG exerted an anti-depressive effect through multiple targets, including AKT1, MAPK14, and ESR1, and the pathways of PI3K/AKT and MAPK. The study provides a new strategy to explore the molecular mechanisms of LIG in treating depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277#, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoguo Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277#, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuli Teng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277#, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277#, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingwei Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277#, Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Mohammadi E, Nikbakht F, Vazifekhah S, Babae JF, Jogataei MT. Evaluation the cognition-improvement effects of N-acetyl cysteine in experimental temporal lobe epilepsy in rat. Behav Brain Res 2023; 440:114263. [PMID: 36563904 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.114263] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Memory impairment is a critical issue in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Neuronal loss within the hippocampus and recurrent seizures may cause cognitive impairment in TLE. N -acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine that is currently being investigated due to its protective effects on neurodegenerative disorders. NAC was orally administrated at a dose of 100 mg/kg for 8 days (7-day pretreatment and 1-day post-surgery). Neuronal viability, mTOR protein level, and spatial memory were detected in the kainite temporal epilepsy model via Nissl staining, western blot method, and Morris water maze task, respectively. Results showed that NAC delayed seizure activity and ameliorated memory deficit induced by Kainic acid. Histological analysis showed that NAC significantly increased the number of intact neurons in CA3 and hilar areas of the hippocampus following the induction of epilepsy. NAC also modulated the mTOR protein level 5 days after epilepsy compared to the KA-induced group. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that NAC improved memory impairment via anticonvulsant and neuroprotective activity and, in all probability, by lowering the level of mTOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekram Mohammadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran Iran
| | - Farnaz Nikbakht
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran Iran.
| | - Somayeh Vazifekhah
- Department of Basic Sciences, Sari Branch. Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran
| | - Javad Fahanik Babae
- Electrophysiology Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohamad Taghi Jogataei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center and Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran Iran
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Correia AS, Fraga S, Teixeira JP, Vale N. Cell Model of Depression: Reduction of Cell Stress with Mirtazapine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094942. [PMID: 35563333 PMCID: PMC9099543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is a very prevalent and complex disease. This condition is associated with a high rate of relapse, making its treatment a challenge. Thus, an intensive investigation of this disease and its treatment is necessary. In this work, through cell viability assays (MTT and neutral red assays) and alkaline comet assays, we aimed to test the induction of stress in human SH-SY5Y cells through the application of hydrocortisone and hydrogen peroxide and to test the reversal or attenuation of this stress through the application of mirtazapine to the cells. Our results demonstrated that hydrogen peroxide, and not hydrocortisone, can induce cellular stress, as evidenced by DNA damage and a global cellular viability reduction, which were alleviated by the antidepressant mirtazapine. The establishment of a cellular model of depression through stress induction is important to study new possibilities of treatment of this disease using cell cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Salomé Correia
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sónia Fraga
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 4000-053 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (J.P.T.)
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, University of Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 4000-053 Porto, Portugal; (S.F.); (J.P.T.)
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, University of Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Community Medicine, Information and Health Decision Sciences (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Al. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory RISE—Health Research Network, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Al. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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11
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Li QF, Lu WT, Zhang Q, Zhao YD, Wu CY, Zhou HF. Proprietary Medicines Containing Bupleurum chinense DC. (Chaihu) for Depression: Network Meta-Analysis and Network Pharmacology Prediction. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:773537. [PMID: 35462897 PMCID: PMC9019785 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.773537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: The rapid development of society has resulted in great competitive pressures, leading to the increase in suicide rates as well as incidence and recurrence of depression in recent years. Proprietary Chinese medicines containing Bupleurum chinense DC. (Chaihu) are widely used in clinical practice. This study aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of oral proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu for treating depression by network meta-analysis (NMA) and exploring the potential pharmacological mechanisms of the optimal drugs obtained based on NMA. Methods: This study searched for clinical randomized controlled trial studies (RCTs) about Chaihu-containing products alone or in combination with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), and cyclic antidepressants (CAS) for depression in eight databases. The search deadline is from data inception to April 2021. For efficacy assessment, the clinical response rate, the Hamilton Depression Scale-17 (HAMD-17), and adverse reactions were calculated. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed for risk of bias following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, and the data were subjected to NMA via the Stata version 16.0 software. Subsequently, the optimal drug obtained from the NMA results, Danzhi Xiaoyao pill (DZXY), was used to conduct network pharmacology analysis. We searched databases to acquire bioactive and potential targets of DZXY and depression-related targets. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, component-target network, the Gene Ontology (GO), and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed by the STRING database, Cytoscape 3.9.0 software, and R version 4.1.2, respectively. Results: Thirty-seven RCTs, with a total of 3,263 patients, involving seven oral proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu, were finally included. The results of the NMA demonstrated that the top four interventions with the best efficiency were Jiawei Xiaoyao + SSRI, DZXY + SNRI, Xiaoyao pill + SSRI, and Jieyu pill + SNRI; the top four interventions reducing HAMD score were DZXY + SNRI, Jiawei Xiaoyao, Jieyu pill, and Puyu pill + SNRI; the top four interventions with the least adverse effects were Jieyu pill, Anle pill + SSRI, DZXY + SNRI, and Puyu pill + SNRI. In the aspects above, DZXY + SNRI performed better than other treatments. After network meta-analysis, we conducted a network pharmacology-based strategy on the optimal drugs, DZXY, to provide the pharmacological basis for a conclusion. A total of 147 active compounds and 248 targets in DZXY were identified, of which 175 overlapping targets related to depression. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that MAPK3, JUN, MAPK14, MYC, MAPK1, etc. could become potential therapeutic targets. The MAPK signaling pathway might play an essential role in DZXY against depression. Conclusion: This is the very first systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluating different oral proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu in depressive disorder. This study suggested that the combination of proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu with antidepressants was generally better than antidepressant treatment. The incidence of adverse reactions with antidepressants alone was higher than that with proprietary Chinese medicines containing Chaihu alone or in combination with antidepressants. DZXY + SNRI showed significantly better results in efficacy, HAMD scores, and safety. The antidepressant effect of DZXY may be related to its regulation of neuroinflammation and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-feng Li
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wen-tian Lu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan-dong Zhao
- Department of Science and Technology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Cheng-yu Wu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Cheng-yu Wu, ; Hui-fang Zhou,
| | - Hui-fang Zhou
- Department of Gynaecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Cheng-yu Wu, ; Hui-fang Zhou,
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Elias E, Zhang AY, Manners MT. Novel Pharmacological Approaches to the Treatment of Depression. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:196. [PMID: 35207483 PMCID: PMC8879976 DOI: 10.3390/life12020196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders. Monoamine-based antidepressants were the first drugs developed to treat major depressive disorder. More recently, ketamine and other analogues were introduced as fast-acting antidepressants. Unfortunately, currently available therapeutics are inadequate; lack of efficacy, adverse effects, and risks leave patients with limited treatment options. Efforts are now focused on understanding the etiology of depression and identifying novel targets for pharmacological treatment. In this review, we discuss promising novel pharmacological targets for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Targeting receptors including N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, G-protein-coupled receptor 39, metabotropic glutamate receptors, galanin and opioid receptors has potential antidepressant effects. Compounds targeting biological processes: inflammation, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, and gut microbiota have also shown therapeutic potential. Additionally, natural products including plants, herbs, and fatty acids improved depressive symptoms and behaviors. In this review, a brief history of clinically available antidepressants will be provided, with a primary focus on novel pharmaceutical approaches with promising antidepressant effects in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Melissa T. Manners
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, 600 South 43rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (E.E.); (A.Y.Z.)
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13
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Fan C, Li Y, Lan T, Wang W, Mao X, Yu SY. Prophylactic treatment of curcumin in a rat model of depression by attenuating hippocampal synaptic loss. Food Funct 2021; 12:11202-11213. [PMID: 34636389 DOI: 10.1039/d1fo02676c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Curcumin is a polyphenol substance considered to be effective in the treatment of a number of neurodegenerative diseases. However, details regarding the exact mechanisms for the protective effects of curcumin in neuropsychiatric disorders, like depression, remain unknown. In the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD) it appears that dysregulation of oxidative stress and immune systems, particularly within the hippocampal region, may play a critical role. Here, we show that pre-treatment with curcumin (40 mg kg-1) alleviates depression-like behaviors in a LPS-induced rat model of depression, effects which were accompanied with suppression of oxidative stress and inflammation and an inhibition of neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampal CA1 region, and results from ultramicrostructure electrophysiological experiments revealed that the curcumin pre-treatment significantly prevented excessive synaptic loss and enhanced synaptic functioning in this LPS-induced rat model. In addition, curcumin attenuated the increases in levels of miR-146a-5p and decreases in the expression of p-ERK signaling that would normally occur within CA1 regions of these depressed rats. Taken together, these results demonstrated that curcumin exerts neuroprotective and antidepressant activities by suppressing oxidative stress, neural inflammation and their related effects upon synaptic dysregulation. One of the mechanisms for these beneficial effects of curcumin appears to involve the miR-146a-5p/ERK signaling pathway within the hippocampal CA1 region. These findings not only elucidated some of the mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective/antidepressant effects of curcumin, but also suggested a role of curcumin as a potential therapeutic strategy for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiqin Fan
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Ye Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Tian Lan
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Xueqin Mao
- Department of Psychology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, 107 Wenhuaxilu Road, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250012, PR China
| | - Shu Yan Yu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, School of Basic Medical sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
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14
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Wang L, Chen Y, Wei L, He J. BMP-6 Attenuates Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation-Induced Apoptosis in Human Neural Stem Cells through Inhibiting p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway. Int J Stem Cells 2021; 15:144-154. [PMID: 34711703 PMCID: PMC9148838 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc21093] [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: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Neural stem cells (NSCs) remain in the mammalian brain throughout life and provide a novel therapeutic strategy for central nervous system (CNS) injury. Bone morphogenetic protein-6 (BMP-6) had shown a protective effect in different types of cells. However, the role of BMP-6 in NSCs is largely unclear. The present study was aimed to investigate whether BMP-6 could protect human NSCs (hNSCs) against the oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced cell death. Methods and Results Upon challenge with OGD treatment, cell viability was significantly decreased in a time-dependent manner, as indicated by the CCK-8 assay. BMP-6 could attenuate the OGD-induced cell injury in a dose-dependent manner and decrease the number of TUNEL-positive cells. Moreover, BMP-6 markedly weakened the OGD-induced alterations in the expression of procaspase-8/9/3 and reversed the expression of cleaved-caspase-3. Interestingly, noggin protein (the BMP-6 inhibitor) attenuated the neuroprotective effect of BMP-6 in cultured hNSCs. Furthermore, the p38 MAPK signaling pathway was activated by OGD treatment and BMP-6 markedly inhibited the phosphorylation of p38 in a concentration-dependent manner. Pretreatment with noggin abolished the effect of BMP-6 on p38 activation. SB239063, a selective p38 inhibitor, exerted similar effects with BMP-6 in protecting hNSCs against the OGD-induced apoptosis. These results indicated that blocking the phosphorylation of p38 might contribute to the neuroprotective effect of BMP-6 against the OGD-induced injury in hNSCs. Conclusions These findings suggested that BMP-6 might be a therapeutic target in the OGD-induced cell death, which provides a novel therapeutic strategy for enhancing host and graft NSCs survival in hypoxic-ischemic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jing He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, China
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15
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Hime GR, Stonehouse SLA, Pang TY. Alternative models for transgenerational epigenetic inheritance: Molecular psychiatry beyond mice and man. World J Psychiatry 2021; 11:711-735. [PMID: 34733638 PMCID: PMC8546770 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v11.i10.711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mental illness remains the greatest chronic health burden globally with few in-roads having been made despite significant advances in genomic knowledge in recent decades. The field of psychiatry is constantly challenged to bring new approaches and tools to address and treat the needs of vulnerable individuals and subpopulations, and that has to be supported by a continuous growth in knowledge. The majority of neuropsychiatric symptoms reflect complex gene-environment interactions, with epigenetics bridging the gap between genetic susceptibility and environmental stressors that trigger disease onset and drive the advancement of symptoms. It has more recently been demonstrated in preclinical models that epigenetics underpins the transgenerational inheritance of stress-related behavioural phenotypes in both paternal and maternal lineages, providing further supporting evidence for heritability in humans. However, unbiased prospective studies of this nature are practically impossible to conduct in humans so preclinical models remain our best option for researching the molecular pathophysiologies underlying many neuropsychiatric conditions. While rodents will remain the dominant model system for preclinical studies (especially for addressing complex behavioural phenotypes), there is scope to expand current research of the molecular and epigenetic pathologies by using invertebrate models. Here, we will discuss the utility and advantages of two alternative model organisms-Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster-and summarise the compelling insights of the epigenetic regulation of transgenerational inheritance that are potentially relevant to human psychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary R Hime
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Sophie LA Stonehouse
- Mental Health Theme, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia
| | - Terence Y Pang
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
- Mental Health Theme, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia
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16
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Potential Correlation Between Depression-like Behavior and the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway in the Rat Hippocampus Following Spinal Cord Injury. World Neurosurg 2021; 154:e29-e38. [PMID: 34271150 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.06.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression induced by spinal cord injury (SCI) has been demonstrated in clinical and experimental studies; it significantly impacts patients' lives and may be associated with changes in the hippocampus. However, the biological mechanisms underlying depression after SCI are unknown. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway participates in potential mechanisms of depression; it is unknown whether this pathway plays a role in SCI-induced depression. METHODS We applied an animal model of depression induced by SCI, established using an aneurysm clip, to determine whether MAPK activation in the hippocampus is associated with depression-like behavior. RESULTS SCI led to depression-like behavior, such as anhedonia in the sucrose preference test, decreased number of crossings in the open field test, decreased body weight, and decreased immobility time in the forced swim test. Western blot analysis further showed that SCI significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated p38 MAPK and cleaved caspase-3 in the hippocampus and inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2. In addition, there were significant negative correlations between depression-like behavior and phosphorylated extracellular signal-related kinase 1/2 and positive correlations between depression-like behavior and phosphorylated p38 MAPK and cleaved caspase-3. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the MAPK pathway in the rat hippocampus may be involved in the pathophysiology of depression induced by SCI.
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When Good Kinases Go Rogue: GSK3, p38 MAPK and CDKs as Therapeutic Targets for Alzheimer's and Huntington's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115911. [PMID: 34072862 PMCID: PMC8199025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a mostly sporadic brain disorder characterized by cognitive decline resulting from selective neurodegeneration in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex whereas Huntington's disease (HD) is a monogenic inherited disorder characterized by motor abnormalities and psychiatric disturbances resulting from selective neurodegeneration in the striatum. Although there have been numerous clinical trials for these diseases, they have been unsuccessful. Research conducted over the past three decades by a large number of laboratories has demonstrated that abnormal actions of common kinases play a key role in the pathogenesis of both AD and HD as well as several other neurodegenerative diseases. Prominent among these kinases are glycogen synthase kinase (GSK3), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and some of the cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). After a brief summary of the molecular and cell biology of AD and HD this review covers what is known about the role of these three groups of kinases in the brain and in the pathogenesis of the two neurodegenerative disorders. The potential of targeting GSK3, p38 MAPK and CDKS as effective therapeutics is also discussed as is a brief discussion on the utilization of recently developed drugs that simultaneously target two or all three of these groups of kinases. Multi-kinase inhibitors either by themselves or in combination with strategies currently being used such as immunotherapy or secretase inhibitors for AD and knockdown for HD could represent a more effective therapeutic approach for these fatal neurodegenerative diseases.
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Smaga I, Frankowska M, Filip M. N-acetylcysteine as a new prominent approach for treating psychiatric disorders. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:2569-2594. [PMID: 33760228 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a well-known and safe mucolytic agent, also used in patients with paracetamol overdose. In addition to these effects, recent preclinical and clinical studies have shown that NAC exerts beneficial effects on different psychiatric disorders. Many potential mechanisms have been proposed to underlie the therapeutic effects of NAC, including the regulation of several neurotransmitters, oxidative homeostasis, and inflammatory mediators. In this paper, we summarize the current knowledge on the ability of NAC to ameliorate symptoms and neuropathologies related to different psychiatric disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, obsessive-compulsive-related disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Although preclinical studies have shown a positive effect of NAC on animal models of psychiatric disorders, the clinical efficacy of NAC is not fully established. NAC remains a strong candidate for adjunct treatment for many psychiatric disorders, but additional preclinical and clinical studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Smaga
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Frankowska
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Filip
- Department of Drug Addiction Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
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Izuo N, Nitta A. New Insights Regarding Diagnosis and Medication for Schizophrenia Based on Neuronal Synapse-Microglia Interaction. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11050371. [PMID: 34063598 PMCID: PMC8147599 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11050371] [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: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a common psychiatric disorder that usually develops during adolescence and young adulthood. Since genetic and environmental factors are involved in the disease, the molecular status of the pathology of schizophrenia differs across patients. Recent genetic studies have focused on the association between schizophrenia and the immune system, especially microglia–synapse interactions. Microglia physiologically eliminate unnecessary synapses during the developmental period. The overactivation of synaptic pruning by microglia is involved in the pathology of brain disease. This paper focuses on the synaptic pruning function and its molecular machinery and introduces the hypothesis that excessive synaptic pruning plays a role in the development of schizophrenia. Finally, we suggest a strategy for diagnosis and medication based on modulation of the interaction between microglia and synapses. This review provides updated information on the involvement of the immune system in schizophrenia and proposes novel insights regarding diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Atsumi Nitta
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-76-415-8822 (ext. 8823); Fax: +81-76-415-8826
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