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Sánchez ML, Mangas A, Coveñas R. Glioma and Peptidergic Systems: Oncogenic and Anticancer Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7990. [PMID: 39063232 PMCID: PMC11277022 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147990] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioma cells overexpress different peptide receptors that are useful for research, diagnosis, management, and treatment of the disease. Oncogenic peptides favor the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioma cells, as well as angiogenesis, whereas anticancer peptides exert antiproliferative, antimigration, and anti-angiogenic effects against gliomas. Other peptides exert a dual effect on gliomas, that is, both proliferative and antiproliferative actions. Peptidergic systems are therapeutic targets, as peptide receptor antagonists/peptides or peptide receptor agonists can be administered to treat gliomas. Other anticancer strategies exerting beneficial effects against gliomas are discussed herein, and future research lines to be developed for gliomas are also suggested. Despite the large amount of data supporting the involvement of peptides in glioma progression, no anticancer drugs targeting peptidergic systems are currently available in clinical practice to treat gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Lisardo Sánchez
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla and León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Arturo Mangas
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla and León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Rafael Coveñas
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy of the Peptidergic Systems, Institute of Neurosciences of Castilla and León (INCYL), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Grupo GIR USAL-BMD (Bases Moleculares del Desarrollo), University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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D’Amico AG, Maugeri G, Vanella L, Consoli V, Sorrenti V, Bruno F, Federico C, Fallica AN, Pittalà V, D’Agata V. Novel Acetamide-Based HO-1 Inhibitor Counteracts Glioblastoma Progression by Interfering with the Hypoxic-Angiogenic Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5389. [PMID: 38791428 PMCID: PMC11121434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105389] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) represents the deadliest tumor among brain cancers. It is a solid tumor characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation generating the hypoxic niches in the cancer core. By inducing the transcription of hypoxic inducible factor (HIF), hypoxia triggers many signaling cascades responsible for cancer progression and aggressiveness, including enhanced expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or antioxidant enzymes, such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). The present work aimed to investigate the link between HO-1 expression and the hypoxic microenvironment of GBM by culturing two human glioblastoma cell lines (U87MG and A172) in the presence of a hypoxic mimetic agent, deferoxamine (DFX). By targeting hypoxia-induced HO-1, we have tested the effect of a novel acetamide-based HO-1 inhibitor (VP18/58) on GBM progression. Results have demonstrated that hypoxic conditions induced upregulation and nuclear expression of HO-1 in a cell-dependent manner related to malignant phenotype. Moreover, our data demonstrated that the HO-1 inhibitor counteracted GBM progression by modulating the HIFα/HO-1/VEGF signaling cascade in cancer cells bearing more malignant phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Grazia D’Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (V.C.); (V.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Luca Vanella
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (V.C.); (V.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Valeria Consoli
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (V.C.); (V.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Valeria Sorrenti
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (V.C.); (V.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Francesca Bruno
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy (C.F.)
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy (C.F.)
| | - Antonino Nicolò Fallica
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (V.C.); (V.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Valeria Pittalà
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (V.C.); (V.S.); (V.P.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Princess Al-Jawhara Centre for Molecular Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 329, Bahrain
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
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Lombardo C, Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Broggi G, Caltabiano R, Filetti V, Matera S, D'Agata V, Loreto C. Pleural mesothelioma from fluoro-edenite exposure: PACAP and PAC1 receptor. A preliminary report. Eur J Histochem 2024; 68:3994. [PMID: 38699968 PMCID: PMC11110723 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2024.3994] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Pleural mesothelioma is a devastating malignancy primarily associated with asbestos exposure. However, emerging evidence suggests that exposure to fluoro-edenite fibers, a naturally occurring mineral fiber, can also lead to the development of pleural mesothelioma. In this study, based on the hypothesis that pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and PACAP-preferring receptor (PAC1R) expressions could be dysregulated in pleural mesothelioma samples and that they could potentially act as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers, we aimed to investigate the immunohistochemical expression of PACAP and PAC1R in pleural biopsies from patients with pleural mesothelioma exposed to fluoro-edenite fibers. A total of 12 patients were included in this study, and their biopsies were processed for immunohistochemical analysis to evaluate the expression of PACAP and its receptor. The study revealed a correlation between the overexpression of PACAP and PAC1R and shorter overall survival in patients with malignant mesothelioma. These findings suggest that PACAP and PAC1R expression levels could serve as potential prognostic biomarkers for malignant mesothelioma. Furthermore, the immunohistochemical analysis of PACAP and PAC1R may provide valuable information for clinicians to guide therapeutic decisions and identify patients with poorer prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnology Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Histology and Sciences of Movement, University of Catania.
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnology Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Histology and Sciences of Movement, University of Catania.
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnology Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Histology and Sciences of Movement, University of Catania.
| | - Giuseppe Broggi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Section of Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania.
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Section of Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania.
| | - Veronica Filetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Catania.
| | - Serena Matera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Catania.
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnology Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Histology and Sciences of Movement, University of Catania.
| | - Carla Loreto
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnology Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Histology and Sciences of Movement, University of Catania.
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Chen G, Zheng Z, Sun H, You J, Chu J, Gao J, Qiu L, Liu X. Dedifferentiated Schwann cells promote perineural invasion mediated by the PACAP paracrine signalling in cervical cancer. J Cell Mol Med 2023; 27:3692-3705. [PMID: 37830980 PMCID: PMC10718160 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17897] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Perineural invasion (PNI) has emerged as a key pathological feature and be considered as a poor prognostic factor in cervical cancer. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, PNI status of 269 cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) samples were quantified by using whole-slide diagnostic images obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Integrated analyses revealed that PNI was an indicative marker of poorer disease-free survival for CESC patients. Among the differentially expressed genes, ADCYAP1 were identified. Clinical specimens supported that high expression of PACAP (encoded by ADCYAP1) contributed to PNI in CESC. Mechanistically, PACAP, secreted from cervical cancer cells, reversed myelin differentiation of Schwann cells (SCs). Then, dedifferentiated SCs promoted PNI by producing chemokine FGF17 and by degrading extracellular matrix through secretion of Cathepsin S and MMP-12. In conclusion, this study identified PACAP was associated with PNI in cervical cancer and suggested that tumour-derived PACAP reversed myelin differentiation of SCs to aid PNI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- Department of Gynecology, The People’s Hospital of Baoan ShenzhenThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Zhen Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jiahao You
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jing Chu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jinghai Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lei Qiu
- School of PharmacyNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaojun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySecond Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
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Petkovic M, Yalçin M, Heese O, Relógio A. Differential expression of the circadian clock network correlates with tumour progression in gliomas. BMC Med Genomics 2023; 16:154. [PMID: 37400829 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-023-01585-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gliomas are tumours arising mostly from astrocytic or oligodendrocytic precursor cells. These tumours are classified according to the updated WHO classification from 2021 in 4 grades depending on molecular and histopathological criteria. Despite novel multimodal therapeutic approaches, the vast majority of gliomas (WHO grade III and IV) are not curable. The circadian clock is an important regulator of numerous cellular processes and its dysregulation had been found during the progression of many cancers, including gliomas. RESULTS In this study, we explore expression patterns of clock-controlled genes in low-grade glioma (LGG) and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and show that a set of 45 clock-controlled genes can be used to distinguish GBM from normal tissue. Subsequent analysis identified 17 clock-controlled genes with a significant association with survival. The results point to a loss of correlation strength within elements of the circadian clock network in GBM compared to LGG. We further explored the progression patterns of mutations in LGG and GBM, and showed that tumour suppressor APC is lost late both in LGG and GBM. Moreover, HIF1A, involved in cellular response to hypoxia, exhibits subclonal losses in LGG, and TERT, involved in the formation of telomerase, is lost late in the GBM progression. By examining multi-sample LGG data, we find that the clock-controlled driver genes APC, HIF1A, TERT and TP53 experience frequent subclonal gains and losses. CONCLUSIONS Our results show a higher level of disrgulation at the gene expression level in GBM compared to LGG, and indicate an association between the differentially expressed clock-regulated genes and patient survival in both LGG and GBM. By reconstructing the patterns of progression in LGG and GBM, our data reveals the relatively late gains and losses of clock-regulated glioma drivers. Our analysis emphasizes the role of clock-regulated genes in glioma development and progression. Yet, further research is needed to asses their value in the development of new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Petkovic
- Institute for Theoretical Biology (ITB), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Müge Yalçin
- Institute for Theoretical Biology (ITB), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Molecular Cancer Research Center (MKFZ), Medical Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumour Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Systems Medicine, Faculty of Human Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, 20457, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Heese
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spinal Surgery, HELIOS Medical Center Schwerin, University Campus of MSH Medical School Hamburg, 20457, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Angela Relógio
- Institute for Theoretical Biology (ITB), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- Molecular Cancer Research Center (MKFZ), Medical Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Tumour Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- Institute for Systems Medicine, Faculty of Human Medicine, MSH Medical School Hamburg, 20457, Hamburg, Germany.
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Zhang N, Shen H, Chen B, Hu H, Liu C, Chen Y, Cong W. The recent progress of peptide regulators for the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1164656. [PMID: 37396899 PMCID: PMC10311566 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1164656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays an important role in many biological processes such as stem cell self-renewal, cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. The β-catenin-dependent signaling pathway mainly regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. In the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, the Wnt family ligands transduce signals through LRP5/6 and Frizzled receptors to the Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascades. Wnt-targeted therapy has garnered extensive attention. The most commonly used approach in targeted therapy is small-molecule regulators. However, it is difficult for small-molecule regulators to make great progress due to their inherent defects. Therapeutic peptide regulators targeting the Wnt signaling pathway have become an alternative therapy, promising to fill the gaps in the clinical application of small-molecule regulators. In this review, we describe recent advances in peptide regulators for Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huaxing Shen
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Baobao Chen
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Honggang Hu
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Liu
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Cong
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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Fu Y, Liu S, Rodrigues RM, Han Y, Guo C, Zhu Z, He Y, Mackowiak B, Feng D, Gao B, Zeng S, Shen H. Activation of VIPR1 suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression by regulating arginine and pyrimidine metabolism. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:4341-4356. [PMID: 35864952 PMCID: PMC9295067 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.71134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide type-I receptor (VIPR1) overexpression has been reported in numerous types of malignancies and utilized to develop novel target therapeutics and radiolabeled VIP analogue-based tumor imaging technology, but its role in liver carcinogenesis has not been explored. In the current study, we investigated the role of the VIP/VIPR1 signaling in controlling hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Approach and results: By analyzing clinical samples, we found the expression level of VIPR1 was downregulated in human HCC tissues, which was correlated with advanced clinical stages, tumor growth, recurrence, and poor outcomes of HCC clinically. In vitro and in vivo studies revealed that activation of VIPR1 by VIP markedly inhibited HCC growth and metastasis. Intriguingly, transcriptome sequencing analyses revealed that activation of VIPR1 by VIP regulated arginine biosynthesis. Mechanistical studies in cultured HCC cells demonstrated that VIP treatment partially restored the expression of arginine anabolic key enzyme argininosuccinate synthase (ASS1), and to some extent, inhibited de novo pyrimidine synthetic pathway by downregulating the activation of CAD (carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase 2, aspartate transcarbamylase, and dihydroorotase). VIP treatment upregulated ASS1 and subsequently suppressed CAD phosphorylation in an mTOR/p70S6K signaling dependent manner. Clinically, we found human HCC samples were associated with downregulation of ASS1 but upregulation of CAD phosphorylation, and that VIPR1 levels positively correlated with ASS1 levels and serum levels of urea, the end product of the urea cycle and arginine metabolism in HCC. Conclusions: Loss of VIPR1 expression in HCC facilitates CAD phosphorylation and tumor progression, and restoration of VIPR1 and treatment with the VIPR1 agonist may be a promising approach for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaojie Fu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Shanshan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Robim M Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Cao Guo
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Zhanwei Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yong He
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Bryan Mackowiak
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Dechun Feng
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Bin Gao
- Laboratory of Liver Diseases, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
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Barzegar Behrooz A, Talaie Z, Jusheghani F, Łos MJ, Klonisch T, Ghavami S. Wnt and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Survival Pathways as Therapeutic Targets in Glioblastoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031353. [PMID: 35163279 PMCID: PMC8836096 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a devastating type of brain tumor, and current therapeutic treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, are palliative at best. The design of effective and targeted chemotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of GBM require a thorough analysis of specific signaling pathways to identify those serving as drivers of GBM progression and invasion. The Wnt/β-catenin and PI3K/Akt/mTOR (PAM) signaling pathways are key regulators of important biological functions that include cell proliferation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), metabolism, and angiogenesis. Targeting specific regulatory components of the Wnt/β-catenin and PAM pathways has the potential to disrupt critical brain tumor cell functions to achieve critical advancements in alternative GBM treatment strategies to enhance the survival rate of GBM patients. In this review, we emphasize the importance of the Wnt/β-catenin and PAM pathways for GBM invasion into brain tissue and explore their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Barzegar Behrooz
- Brain Cancer Department, Asu vanda Gene Industrial Research Company, Tehran 1533666398, Iran; (A.B.B.); (Z.T.)
| | - Zahra Talaie
- Brain Cancer Department, Asu vanda Gene Industrial Research Company, Tehran 1533666398, Iran; (A.B.B.); (Z.T.)
| | - Fatemeh Jusheghani
- Department of Biotechnology, Asu vanda Gene Industrial Research Company, Tehran 1533666398, Iran;
| | - Marek J. Łos
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
| | - Thomas Klonisch
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada;
- Department of Pathology, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
- Research Institute of Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada;
- Research Institute of Oncology and Hematology, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
- Biology of Breathing Theme, Children Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Katowice School of Technology, 40-555 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence:
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A Broad Overview on Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide Role in the Eye: Focus on Its Repairing Effect in Cornea. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12020760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with widespread distribution throughout the central and peripheral nervous system as well as in many other peripheral organs. It plays cytoprotective effects mediated mainly through the activation of specific receptors. PACAP is known to play pleiotropic effects on the eye, including the cornea, protecting it against different types of insult. This review firstly provides an overview of the anatomy of the cornea and summarizes data present in literature about PACAP’s role in the eye and, in particular, in the cornea, either in physiological or pathological conditions.
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10
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Li HX, Feng J, Liu Q, Ou BQ, Lu SY, Ma Y. PACAP-derived mutant peptide MPAPO protects trigeminal ganglion cell and the retina from hypoxic injury through anti-oxidative stress, anti-apoptosis, and promoting axon regeneration. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2021; 1865:130018. [PMID: 34597723 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2021.130018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether the MPAPO, derived peptide of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), would protect trigeminal ganglion cells (TGCs) and the mice retinas from a hypoxic insult. The nerve endings of the ophthalmic nerve of the trigeminal nerve are widely distributed in eye tissues. In TGCs after hypoxia exposure, we discovered that reactive oxygen species level, the contents of cytosolic cytochrome c and cleaved-caspase-3 were significantly increased, in the meanwhile, m-Calpain was activated and cytoskeleton proteins (αII-spectrin and Synapsin) were degraded, neurites of TGCs disappeared, but these effects were reversed in TGCs treated with MPAPO. The structure of the mice retinas after hypoxic exposure was disordered. Increased lipid peroxidation (LPO), decreased glutathione (GSH) levels, and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, positive cells of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), the disintegration of nerve fibers was examined in the retinas following a hypoxic insult. Disordered retina was attenuated with MPAPO eye drops, as well as hypoxia-induced apoptosis in the developing retina, increase in LPO, and decrease in GSH levels and SOD activity of the retina. Moreover, the disintegrated retinal nerve fibers were reassembled after MPAPO treatment. These results suggest that hypoxia induces oxidative stress, apoptosis, and neurites disruption, while MPAPO is remarkably protective against these adverse effects of hypoxia in TGCs and the developing retinas by specifically activating PAC1 receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Xian Li
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, The national Demonstration center for Experimental Education of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Feng
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, The national Demonstration center for Experimental Education of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Liu
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, The national Demonstration center for Experimental Education of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Bi-Qian Ou
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, The national Demonstration center for Experimental Education of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi-Yin Lu
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, The national Demonstration center for Experimental Education of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Ma
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, The national Demonstration center for Experimental Education of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, 601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Maugeri G, D’Amico AG, Saccone S, Federico C, Rasà DM, Caltabiano R, Broggi G, Giunta S, Musumeci G, D’Agata V. Effect of PACAP on Hypoxia-Induced Angiogenesis and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Glioblastoma. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9080965. [PMID: 34440169 PMCID: PMC8392618 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) exerts different effects in various human cancer. In glioblastoma (GBM), PACAP has been shown to interfere with the hypoxic micro-environment through the modulation of hypoxia-inducible factors via PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK pathways inhibition. Considering that hypoxic tumor micro-environment is strictly linked to angiogenesis and Epithelial–Mesenchymal transition (EMT), in the present study, we have investigated the ability of PACAP to regulate these events. Results have demonstrated that PACAP and its related receptor, PAC1R, are expressed in hypoxic area of human GBM colocalizing either in epithelial or mesenchymal cells. By using an in vitro model of GBM cells, we have observed that PACAP interferes with hypoxic/angiogenic pathway by reducing vascular-endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release and inhibiting formation of vessel-like structures in H5V endothelial cells cultured with GBM-conditioned medium. Moreover, PACAP treatment decreased the expression of mesenchymal markers such as vimentin, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) as well as CD44 in GBM cells by affecting their invasiveness. In conclusion, our study provides new insights regarding the multimodal role of PACAP in GBM malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.R.); (S.G.); (G.M.)
| | | | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (S.S.); (C.F.)
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (S.S.); (C.F.)
| | - Daniela Maria Rasà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.R.); (S.G.); (G.M.)
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Rosario Caltabiano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Giuseppe Broggi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Anatomic Pathology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.R.); (S.G.); (G.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.R.); (S.G.); (G.M.)
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (D.M.R.); (S.G.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-3782147; Fax: +39-095-3782046
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12
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D’Amico AG, Maugeri G, Vanella L, Pittalà V, Reglodi D, D’Agata V. Multimodal Role of PACAP in Glioblastoma. Brain Sci 2021; 11:994. [PMID: 34439613 PMCID: PMC8391398 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11080994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the deadliest form of brain tumors. To date, the GBM therapeutical approach consists of surgery, radiation-therapy and chemotherapy combined with molecules improving cancer responsiveness to treatments. In this review, we will present a brief overview of the GBM classification and pathogenesis, as well as the therapeutic approach currently used. Then, we will focus on the modulatory role exerted by pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide, known as PACAP, on GBM malignancy. Specifically, we will describe PACAP ability to interfere with GBM cell proliferation, as well as the tumoral microenvironment. Considering its anti-oncogenic role in GBM, synthesis of PACAP agonist molecules may open new perspectives for combined therapy to existing gold standard treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Grazia D’Amico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (L.V.); (V.P.)
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy;
| | - Luca Vanella
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (L.V.); (V.P.)
| | - Valeria Pittalà
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.G.D.); (L.V.); (V.P.)
| | - Dora Reglodi
- MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, Department of Anatomy, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy;
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13
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Fábián E, Horváth G, Opper B, Atlasz T, Tóth G, Reglődi D. PACAP is Protective Against Cellular Stress in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. Int J Pept Res Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-021-10162-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe integrity of the innermost, pigment epithelial layer of the retina is crucial for the photoreceptor survival and for maintaining the outer blood–retina barrier. In several ocular degenerations, such as diabetic retinopathy or macular edema, the stress caused by various harmful stimuli (hypoxia, oxidative stress, hyperosmosis) lead to severe molecular biological changes in this layer, promoting neovascularization of the retina. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) occurs throughout the whole body, including the eye. It has numerous functions in the retina, including the previously described anti-apoptotic and anti-angiogenic effects in retinal pigment epithelial cells. The aim of this present study was to investigate the influence of PACAP on different stress factors. In accordance with previous findings, PACAP significantly ameliorated the increased Hif1-α levels in hypoxic conditions. In H2O2-induced oxidative stress PACAP had an anti-apoptotic effect, it could decrease the expression of cytochrome-c and p53, while it upregulated the concentration of three antioxidants, namely SOD2, PON2 and thioredoxin. In conclusion, we provided new information on the molecular biological background of the retinoprotective effect of PACAP.
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14
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Kvarik T, Reglodi D, Werling D, Vaczy A, Kovari P, Szabo E, Kovacs K, Hashimoto H, Ertl T, Gyarmati J, Atlasz T. The Protective Effects of Endogenous PACAP in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 71:2546-2557. [PMID: 33895966 PMCID: PMC8602170 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01846-2] [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: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase–activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide having trophic and protective functions in neural tissues, including the retina. Previously, we have shown that intravitreal PACAP administration can maintain retinal structure in the animal model of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The purpose of this study is to examine the development of ROP in PACAP-deficient and wild-type mice to reveal the function of endogenous PACAP. Wild-type and PACAP-knockout (KO) mouse pups at postnatal day (PD) 7 were maintained at 75% oxygen for 5 consecutive days then returned to room air on PD12 to develop oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR). On PD15, animals underwent electroretinography (ERG) to assess visual function. On PD16, eyes were harvested for either immunohistochemistry to determine the percentage of the central avascular retinal area or molecular analysis to assess angiogenesis proteins by array kit and anti-apoptotic protein kinase B (Akt) change by western blot. Retinas of PACAP-deficient OIR mice showed a greater central avascular area than that of the wild types. ERG revealed significantly decreased b-wave amplitude in PACAP KO compared to their controls. Several angiogenic proteins were upregulated due to OIR, and 11 different proteins markedly increased in PACAP-deficient mice, whereas western blot analysis revealed a reduction in Akt phosphorylation, suggesting an advanced cell death in the lack of PACAP. This is the first study to examine the endogenous effect of PACAP in the OIR model. Previously, we have shown the beneficial effect of exogenous local PACAP treatment in the rat OIR model. Together with the present findings, we suggest that PACAP could be a novel retinoprotective agent in ROP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timea Kvarik
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Dora Werling
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Vaczy
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Petra Kovari
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Edina Szabo
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Kovacs
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Hitoshi Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tibor Ertl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Judit Gyarmati
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Tamas Atlasz
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, Medical School, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary. .,Department of Sportbiology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary.
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15
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Abstract
AbstractPituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with widespread occurrence and diverse functions. PACAP binds to specific PAC1 and non-specific VPAC1/2 receptors. PACAP is considered as a growth factor, as it plays important roles during development and participates in reparative processes. Highest concentrations are found in the nervous system and endocrine glands, where several functions are known, including actions in tissue growth, differentiation and tumour development. Therefore, we have investigated expression of PACAP and its receptors in different tumours, including those of endocrine glands. We showed earlier that PACAP and PAC1 receptor staining intensity decreased in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. In the present study we aimed to investigate alterations of PACAP and PAC1 receptor in human insulinoma and compared the immunostaining pattern with samples from chronic pancreatitis patients. We collected perioperative and histological data of patients who underwent operation because of insulinoma or chronic pancreatitis over a five-year-long period. Histology showed chronic pancreatitis with severe scar formation in pancreatitis patients, while tumour samples evidenced Grade 1 or 2 insulinoma. PACAP and PAC1 receptor expression was studied using immunohistochemistry. Staining intensity was very strong in the Langerhans islets of normal tissue and discernible staining was also observed in the exocrine pancreas. Immunostaining intensity for both PACAP and PAC1 receptor was markedly weaker in insulinoma samples, and disappeared from chronic pancreatitis samples except for intact islets. These findings show that PAC1 receptor/PACAP signalling is altered in insulinoma and this suggests a possible involvement of this system in tumour growth or differentiation.
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16
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Effects of Pacap on Schwann Cells: Focus on Nerve Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218233. [PMID: 33153152 PMCID: PMC7663204 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Schwann cells, the most abundant glial cells of the peripheral nervous system, represent the key players able to supply extracellular microenvironment for axonal regrowth and restoration of myelin sheaths on regenerating axons. Following nerve injury, Schwann cells respond adaptively to damage by acquiring a new phenotype. In particular, some of them localize in the distal stump to form the Bungner band, a regeneration track in the distal site of the injured nerve, whereas others produce cytokines involved in recruitment of macrophages infiltrating into the nerve damaged area for axonal and myelin debris clearance. Several neurotrophic factors, including pituitary adenylyl cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP), promote survival and axonal elongation of injured neurons. The present review summarizes the evidence existing in the literature demonstrating the autocrine and/or paracrine action exerted by PACAP to promote remyelination and ameliorate the peripheral nerve inflammatory response following nerve injury.
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17
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Arafa K, Emara M. Insights About Circadian Clock and Molecular Pathogenesis in Gliomas. Front Oncol 2020; 10:199. [PMID: 32195174 PMCID: PMC7061216 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The circadian clock is an endogenous time-keeping system that has been discovered across kingdoms of life. It controls and coordinates metabolism, physiology, and behavior to adapt to variations within the day and the seasonal environmental cycles driven by earth rotation. In mammals, although circadian rhythm is controlled by a set of core clock genes that are present in both in suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus and peripheral tissues, the generation and control of the circadian rhythm at the cellular, tissue, and organism levels occurs in a hierarchal fashion. The SCN is central pacemaker comprising the principal circadian clock that synchronizes peripheral circadian clocks to their appropriate phase. Different epidemiological studies have shown that disruption of normal circadian rhythm is implicated in increasing the risk of developing cancers. In addition, deregulated expression of clock genes has been demonstrated in various types of cancer. These findings indicate a close association between circadian clock and cancer development and progression. Here, we review different evidences of this association in relation to molecular pathogenesis in gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marwan Emara
- Center for Aging and Associated Diseases, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Cairo, Egypt
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18
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Toth D, Szabo E, Tamas A, Juhasz T, Horvath G, Fabian E, Opper B, Szabo D, Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, D'Agata V, Vicena V, Reglodi D. Protective Effects of PACAP in Peripheral Organs. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:377. [PMID: 32765418 PMCID: PMC7381171 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide widely distributed in the nervous system, where it exerts strong neuroprotective effects. PACAP is also expressed in peripheral organs but its peripheral protective effects have not been summarized so far. Therefore, the aim of the present paper is to review the existing literature regarding the cytoprotective effects of PACAP in non-neuronal cell types, peripheral tissues, and organs. Among others, PACAP has widespread expression in the digestive system, where it shows protective effects in various intestinal pathologies, such as duodenal ulcer, small bowel ischemia, and intestinal inflammation. PACAP is present in both the exocrine and endocrine pancreas as well as liver where it reduces inflammation and steatosis by interfering with hepatic pathology related to obesity. It is found in several exocrine glands and also in urinary organs, where, with its protective effects being mainly published regarding renal pathologies, PACAP is protective in numerous conditions. PACAP displays anti-inflammatory effects in upper and lower airways of the respiratory system. In the skin, it is involved in the development of inflammatory pathology such as psoriasis and also has anti-allergic effects in a model of contact dermatitis. In the non-neuronal part of the visual system, PACAP showed protective effects in pathological conditions of the cornea and retinal pigment epithelial cells. The positive role of PACAP has been demonstrated on the formation and healing processes of cartilage and bone where it also prevents osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis development. The protective role of PACAP was also demonstrated in the cardiovascular system in different pathological processes including hyperglycaemia-induced endothelial dysfunction and age-related vascular changes. In the heart, PACAP protects against ischemia, oxidative stress, and cardiomyopathies. PACAP is also involved in the protection against the development of pre-senile systemic amyloidosis, which is presented in various peripheral organs in PACAP-deficient mice. The studies summarized here provide strong evidence for the cytoprotective effects of the peptide. The survival-promoting effects of PACAP depend on a number of factors which are also shortly discussed in the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denes Toth
- Department of Forensic Medicine, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Edina Szabo
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Andrea Tamas
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tamas Juhasz
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gabriella Horvath
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Eszter Fabian
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Balazs Opper
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dora Szabo
- Heart Institute, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata G. D'Amico
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Viktoria Vicena
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Dora Reglodi
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19
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Wang Z, Shan W, Li H, Feng J, Lu S, Ou B, Ma M, Ma Y. The PACAP-derived peptide MPAPO facilitates corneal wound healing by promoting corneal epithelial cell proliferation and trigeminal ganglion cell axon regeneration. Int J Biol Sci 2019; 15:2676-2691. [PMID: 31754339 PMCID: PMC6854382 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.35630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well known that the cornea plays an important role in providing protection to the eye, but it is fragile and vulnerable. To clarify the biological effects and molecular mechanisms of the pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP)-derived peptide MPAPO (named MPAPO) to promote corneal wound healing, we applied a mechanical method to establish a corneal injury model and analyzed the repair effects of MPAPO on corneal injury. MPAPO significantly promoted corneal wound repair in C57BL/6 mice. In addition, we established injury models of epithelial cells and trigeminal ganglion cells with H2O2. The results show that when the concentration of MPAPO is 1 μM, it can significantly promote the repair of injured corneal epithelial cells and the regeneration of trigeminal ganglion cell axons. MPAPO repairs epithelial cells through the promotion of GSK3β phosphorylation by binding to PAC1 and activating AKT. β-catenin escapes the phosphorylation of GSK3β and enters the nucleus to promote the expression of cyclin D1, accelerate cell cycle progression and promote cell proliferation. MPAPO promotes axonal regeneration by binding to the PAC1 receptor and activating adenylate cyclase activity, followed by the cAMP activation of protein kinase A activity and the promotion of CREB phosphorylation. Phosphorylated CREB promotes Bcl2 expression and axonal regeneration. In conclusion, our data support the role of MPAPO to facilitate corneal wound healing by promoting corneal epithelial cell proliferation and trigeminal ganglion cell axon regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixian Wang
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, Jinan University.,National engineering research center of genetic Medicine, Key laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University
| | - Wailan Shan
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, Jinan University.,National engineering research center of genetic Medicine, Key laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University
| | - Huixian Li
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, Jinan University.,National engineering research center of genetic Medicine, Key laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University
| | - Jia Feng
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, Jinan University.,National engineering research center of genetic Medicine, Key laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University
| | - Shiyin Lu
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, Jinan University.,National engineering research center of genetic Medicine, Key laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University
| | - Biqian Ou
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, Jinan University.,National engineering research center of genetic Medicine, Key laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University
| | - Min Ma
- College of traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University
| | - Yi Ma
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Cellular Biology, Jinan University.,National engineering research center of genetic Medicine, Key laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University
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20
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Ferencz S, Reglodi D, Kaszas B, Bardosi A, Toth D, Vekony Z, Vicena V, Karadi O, Kelemen D. PACAP and PAC1 receptor expression in pancreatic ductal carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2019; 18:5725-5730. [PMID: 31788045 PMCID: PMC6865831 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic carcinoma is one of the most malignant diseases and is associated with a poor survival rate. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide that acts on three different G protein-coupled receptors: the specific PAC1 and the VPAC1/2 that also bind vasoactive intestinal peptide. PACAP is widely distributed in the body and has diverse physiological effects. Among other things, it acts as a trophic factor and influences proliferation and differentiation of several different cells both under normal circumstances and tumourous transformation. Changes of PACAP and its receptors have been shown in various tumour types. However, it is not known whether PACAP and its specific receptor are altered in pancreatic cancer. Perioperative data of patients with pancreas carcinoma was investigated over a five-year period. Histological results showed Grade 2 or Grade 3 adenocarcinoma in most cases. PACAP and PAC1 receptor expression were investigated by immunohistochemistry. Staining intensity of PAC1 receptor was strong in normal tissues both in the exocrine and endocrine parts of the pancreas, the receptor staining was markedly weaker in the adenocarcinoma. PACAP immunostaining was weak in the exocrine part and very strong in the islets and nerve elements in non-tumourous tissues. The PACAP immunostaining almost disappeared in the adenocarcinoma samples. Based on these findings a decrease or lack of the PAC1 receptor/PACAP signalling might have an influence on tumour growth and/or differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandor Ferencz
- Department of Surgery, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
| | - Balint Kaszas
- Department of Pathology, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
| | - Attila Bardosi
- Center for Histology, Cytology and Molecular Diagnostics, and Proteopath GmbH, Trier 54296, Germany
| | - Denes Toth
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
| | - Zsofia Vekony
- Department of Surgery, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
| | - Viktoria Vicena
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Group, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
| | - Oszkar Karadi
- Department of Oncology, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
| | - Dezso Kelemen
- Department of Surgery, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs 7622, Hungary
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21
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Federico C, Saccone S, Giunta S, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. Involvement of A 3 Adenosine Receptor in Neuroblastoma Progression via Modulation of the Hypoxic/Angiogenic Pathway. J Mol Neurosci 2019; 69:166-176. [PMID: 31166001 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-019-01346-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor of childhood. The clinical course may range from spontaneous regression towards ganglioneuroblastoma/ganglioneuroma or maturation to a very aggressive form characterized by an extensive hypoxic area. In solid tumors, extracellular microenvironment hypoxia induces the transcription of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) leading to synthesis of pro-angiogenic factor, VEGF; also, it increases extracellular adenosine production from ATP breakdown. To date, the role of this nucleoside in the hypoxic/angiogenic pathway characterizing the core of cancer mass has not been investigated yet. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyze the adenosine effect on modulation of the HIF-1α/2α/VEGF pathway mediated through A3 AR binding. To this end, we have used a selective A3 AR agonist IB-MECA or antagonist VUF 5574 in an in vitro model of malignant undifferentiated and all-trans retinoic acid (RA)-differentiated SH-SY5Y cells, representing the benign form of NB. Our results have shown that specific A3 AR stimulation induces HIF and VEGF expression through the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase/Erk kinase signaling cascade. In conclusion, the data suggest that A3 AR may represent a marker of NB malignancy as well as a drug target for treatment of this solid tumor. Graphical Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia, 87, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Human Science and Promotion of Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia, 87, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia, 87, 95123, Catania, Italy.
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Rasà DM, Federico C, Saccone S, Morello G, La Cognata V, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. Molecular mechanisms involved in the protective effect of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide in an in vitro model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:5203-5214. [PMID: 30238989 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons. Based on transcriptional profiles of motor cortex samples, in a previous work, we were able to classify two subgroups of sporadic ALS (SALS) patients, named SALS1 and SALS2. A further meta-analysis study has revealed sixteen drug targets commonly deregulated in SALS2 and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) G93A mice. The identified candidate drug targets included pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and matrix metallopeptidase-2 (MMP-2). By using a motor neuron-like hybrid cell line (NSC-34) expressing human SOD1 G93A as an in vitro model of ALS, here we investigated the functional correlation among these three genes. Our results have shown that PACAP increases cell viability following serum deprivation. This effect is induced through EGFR transactivation mediated by protein kinase A stimulation. Furthermore, EGFR phosphorylation activates mitogen-activated protein kinases/extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 survival signaling pathway and increases MMP-2 expression, significantly reduced by serum starvation. These results suggest that a deeper characterization of mechanisms involved in PACAP/EGFR/MMP-2 axis activation in G93A SOD1 mutated neurons may allow identifying new targets for ALS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata G D'Amico
- Department of Human Science and Promotion of Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela M Rasà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Morello
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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From epidemiology to treatment: Aspirin's prevention of brain and breast-cancer and cardioprotection may associate with its metabolite gentisic acid. Chem Biol Interact 2018; 291:29-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2018.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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24
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Rasà DM, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. PACAP and VIP regulate hypoxia-inducible factors in neuroblastoma cells exposed to hypoxia. Neuropeptides 2018; 69:84-91. [PMID: 29699729 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2018.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) are two related peptides acting as neurotransmitters/neuromodulators in central and peripheral nervous system. They are also involved in cancer showing a controversial role. Particulary, they are implicated in neuroblastoma differentiation (NB). This pediatric tumor can evolve to a malignant metastatic disease or spontaneously regress towards a benign form, known as ganglioneuroblastoma/ganglioneuroma. A negative hallmark of neoplasia progression is represented by hypoxic microenvironment. Low oxygen tension induces activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) promoting cells proliferation and metastasis formation. Moreover, HIFs trigger vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release favouring high-risk NB phenotype development. In the present work, we have investigated for the first time, if PACAP and VIP interfere with NB differentiation through modulation of hypoxic/angiogenic process. To this end, we analyzed their effect in malignant undifferentiated and all-trans retinoic acid (RA) differentiated SH-SY5Y cells, representing the benign form of this tumor. Our results have suggested tha both peptides, but predominantly VIP, induce NB differentiation into benign form by regulating HIFs, VEGF and VEGFRs expression and distribution. All these data give new insight regarding PACAP/VIP regulatory role in NB progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Department of Human Science and Promotion of quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University of Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maria Rasà
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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25
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Maugeri G, Longo A, D'Amico AG, Rasà DM, Reibaldi M, Russo A, Bonfiglio V, Avitabile T, D'Agata V. Trophic effect of PACAP on human corneal endothelium. Peptides 2018; 99:20-26. [PMID: 29126993 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cornea's posterior surface includes endothelium maintaining stromal hydration and clarity. Due to their limited proliferative capability, the loss of endothelial cells can outcome in permanent opacity. In the last years, different studies have demonstrated the protective effect of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in different ocular diseases. However, its role on human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs) has not been investigated, yet. Here, we have developed a culture protocol to differentiate HCECs from donor's cornea. PACAP treatment prevented damage induced by growth factors deprivation of cells grown on transwell supports as revealed by TERR measurements. Moreover, this peptide significantly increased tight junction proteins expression by conferring resistance to endothelial barrier. This effect is also related to promotion of cell viability as demonstrated by MTT assay. Furthermore, PACAP stimulated repairing of corneal endothelium lesion as shown by wound healing analysis. In conclusion, our data suggest that this peptide could represent an important trophic factor in maintaining functionality of human corneal endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Department of Human Science and Promotion of Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University of Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maria Rasà
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Russo
- Eye Clinic, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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26
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Rasà DM, La Cognata V, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. Nicotine promotes blood retinal barrier damage in a model of human diabetic macular edema. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 44:182-189. [PMID: 28689815 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
More than 1 billion world's population actively smokes tobacco containing the bioactive component nicotine (NT). The biological role of this molecule is mediated through the activation of nicotinic cholinergic receptors, widely distributed in various human tissues including retinal pigmented epithelium. The long-term assumption of NT contributes to several diseases development such as diabetic retinopathy. The major complication of this pathology is the diabetic macular edema (DME), characterized by macular area thinning and blood-retinal barrier (BRB) breakdown. Retinal hyperglycemic/hypoxic microenvironment represents one of the main factors favoring DME progression by eliciting the hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) expression. The latter induce new vessels formation by stimulating cellular secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The etiology of DME is multifactorial, but little is known about the risk factors linked to cigarette smoking, in particular to nicotine's contribution. In the present study, we have investigated the NT role in a model, in vitro, of DME, by evaluating its effect on outer BRB permeability and HIFs/VEGF expression following exposure to hyperglycemic/hypoxic insult. Our results have demonstrated that this compound alters outer BRB integrity exposed to high glucose and low oxygen pressure microenvironment by upregulating HIF-1α/HIF-2α, VEGF expression and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These data have suggested that NT may play a negative role in active smokers affected by DME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Department of Human Science and Promotion of Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University of Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maria Rasà
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina La Cognata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Institute of Neurological Sciences, National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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27
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Rasà DM, La Cognata V, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. Caffeine Prevents Blood Retinal Barrier Damage in a Model, In Vitro, of Diabetic Macular Edema. J Cell Biochem 2017; 118:2371-2379. [PMID: 28106278 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.25899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the major cause of vision loss in patients affected by diabetic retinopathy. Hyperglycemia and hypoxia represent the key elements in the progression of these pathologies, leading to breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB). Caffeine, a psychoactive substance largely consumed in the world, is a nonselective antagonist of adenosine receptors (AR) and it possesses a protective effect in various diseases, including eye pathologies. Here, we have investigated the effect of this substance on BRB integrity following exposure to hyperglycemic/hypoxic insult. Retinal pigmented epithelial cells, ARPE-19, have been grown on semi-permeable supports mimicking an experimental model, in vitro, of outer BRB. Caffeine treatment has reduced cell monolayer permeability after exposure to high glucose and desferoxamine as shown by TEER and FITC-dextran permeability assays. This effect is also mediated through the restoration of membrane's tight junction expression, ZO-1. Moreover, we have demonstrated that caffeine is able to prevent outer BRB damage by inhibiting apoptotic cell death induced by hyperglycemic/hypoxic insult since it downregulates the proapoptotic Bax and upregulates the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 genes. Although further studies are needed to better comprise the beneficial effect of caffeine, we can speculate that it might be used as an innovative drug for DME treatment. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 2371-2379, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,San Raffaele Telematic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Maria Rasà
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina La Cognata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Institute of Neurological Sciences, Italian National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Italian National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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28
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Huang J, Waters KA, Machaalani R. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and its receptor 1 (PAC1) in the human infant brain and changes in the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Neurobiol Dis 2017; 103:70-77. [PMID: 28392470 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and its complementary receptor, PAC1, are crucial in central respiratory control. PACAP Knockout (KO) mice exhibit a SIDS-like phenotype, with an inability to overcome noxious insults, compression of baseline ventilation, and death in the early post-neonatal period. PAC1 KO demonstrate similar attributes to PACAP-null mice, but with the addition of increased pulmonary artery pressure, consequently leading to heart failure and death. This study establishes a detailed interpretation of the neuroanatomical distribution and localization of both PACAP and PAC1 in the human infant brainstem and hippocampus, to determine whether any changes in expression are evident in infants who died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and any relationships to risk factors of SIDS including smoke exposure and sleep related parameters. Immunohistochemistry for PACAP and PAC1 was performed on formalin fixed and paraffin embedded human infant brain tissue of SIDS (n=32) and non-SIDS (n=12). The highest expression of PACAP was found in the hypoglossal (XII) of the brainstem medulla and lowest expression in the subiculum of the hippocampus. Highest expression of PAC1 was also found in XII of the medulla and lowest in the midbrain dorsal raphe (MBDR) and inferior colliculus. SIDS compared to non-SIDS had higher PACAP in the MBDR (p<0.05) and lower PAC1 in the medulla arcuate nucleus (p<0.001). Correlations were found between PACAP and PAC1 with the risk factors of smoke exposure, bed sharing, upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) and seasonal temperatures. The findings of this study show for the first time that some abnormalities of the PACAP system are evident in the SIDS brain and could contribute to the mechanisms of infants succumbing to SIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Huang
- Department of Medicine, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; BOSCH Institute of Biomedical Research, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - K A Waters
- Department of Medicine, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children's Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - R Machaalani
- Department of Medicine, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; BOSCH Institute of Biomedical Research, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The Children's Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
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29
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Wang G, Wang JJ, Fu XL, Guang R, To SST. Advances in the targeting of HIF-1α and future therapeutic strategies for glioblastoma multiforme (Review). Oncol Rep 2016; 37:657-670. [PMID: 27959421 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.5309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell metabolism can be reprogrammed by tissue hypoxia leading to cell transformation and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) progression. In response to hypoxia, GBM cells are able to express a transcription factor called hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). HIF-1 belongs to a family of heterodimeric proteins that includes HIF-1α and HIF-1β subunits. HIF-1α has been reported to play a pivotal role in GBM development and progression. In the present review, we discuss the role of HIF-1α in glucose uptake, cancer proliferation, cell mobility and chemoresistance in GBM. Evidence from previous studies indicates that HIF-1α regulates angiogenesis, metabolic and transcriptional signaling pathways. Examples of such are the EGFR, PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways. It affects cell migration and invasion by regulating glucose metabolism and growth in GBM cells. The present review focuses on the strategies through which to target HIF-1α and the related downstream genes highlighting their regulatory roles in angiogenesis, apoptosis, migration and glucose metabolism for the development of future GBM therapeutics. Combined treatment with inhibitors of HIF-1α and glycolysis may enhance antitumor effects in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wang
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Shanghai 200235, P.R. China
| | - Jun-Jie Wang
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Shanghai 200235, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Li Fu
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Shanghai 200235, P.R. China
| | - Rui Guang
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Shanghai 200235, P.R. China
| | - Shing-Shun Tony To
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon Hong Kong, SAR, P.R. China
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30
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. PACAP and VIP Inhibit HIF-1α-Mediated VEGF Expression in a Model of Diabetic Macular Edema. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:1209-1215. [PMID: 27661459 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) exert a protective role against retinal injuries, including diabetic macular edema (DME). The macular damage is induced by hyperglycemia, which damages vessels supplying blood to the retina and induces hypoxia. The microenvironmental changes stimulate the expression of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), which promote the choroidal endothelial cell transmigration across the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) into neurosensory retina, where they proliferate into new vessels under stimulation of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In the present study, we have investigated whether PACAP and VIP prevent retinal damage by modulating the expression of HIFs, VEGF, and its receptors. In accord to our hypothesis, we have shown that both peptides are able to significantly reduce HIF-1α and increase HIF-3α expression in ARPE-19 cells exposed to hyperglycemic/hypoxic insult. This effect is also related to a reduction of VEGF and its receptors expression. Moreover, both peptides also reduce the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), a pro-apoptotic signaling pathway, which is activated by VEGFR-1 and 2 receptors. In conclusion, our study has further elucidated the protective role performed by PACAP and VIP, against the harmful combined effect of hyperglycemia/hypoxia characterizing the DME microenvironment. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1209-1215, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,San Raffaele Telematic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Italian National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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31
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Maugeri G, D'Amico AG, Gagliano C, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. VIP Family Members Prevent Outer Blood Retinal Barrier Damage in a Model of Diabetic Macular Edema. J Cell Physiol 2016; 232:1079-1085. [PMID: 27486932 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME), characterized by an increase of thickness in the eye macular area, is due to breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB). Hypoxia plays a key role in the progression of this pathology by activating the hypoxia-inducible factors. In the last years, various studies have put their attention on the role of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in retinal dysfunction. However, until now, no study has investigated their protective role against the harmful combined effect of both hyperglycemia and hypoxia on outer BRB. Therefore, in the present study, we have analyzed the role of these peptides on permeability, restoration of tight junctions expression and inhibition of hyperglycemia/hypoxia-induced apoptosis, in an experimental in vitro model of outer BRB. Our results have demonstrated that the peptides' treatment have restored the integrity of outer BRB induced by cell exposure to hyperglycemia/hypoxia. Their effect is mediated through the activation of phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt and mammalian mitogen activated protein kinase/Erk kinase (MAPK/ERK) signaling pathways. In conclusion, our study further clarifies the mechanism through which PACAP and VIP perform the beneficial effect on retinal damage induced by hyperglycemic/hypoxic insult, responsible of DME progression. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1079-1085, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Grazia D'Amico
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,San Raffaele Telematic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Salvatore Saccone
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Section of Animal Biology, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Italian National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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32
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Bardosi S, Bardosi A, Nagy Z, Reglodi D. Expression of PACAP and PAC1 Receptor in Normal Human Thyroid Gland and in Thyroid Papillary Carcinoma. J Mol Neurosci 2016; 60:171-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-016-0823-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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