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Charou D, Rogdakis T, Latorrata A, Valcarcel M, Papadogiannis V, Athanasiou C, Tsengenes A, Papadopoulou MA, Lypitkas D, Lavigne MD, Katsila T, Wade RC, Cader MZ, Calogeropoulou T, Gravanis A, Charalampopoulos I. Comprehensive characterization of the neurogenic and neuroprotective action of a novel TrkB agonist using mouse and human stem cell models of Alzheimer's disease. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:200. [PMID: 38971770 PMCID: PMC11227723 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03818-w] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural stem cell (NSC) proliferation and differentiation in the mammalian brain decreases to minimal levels postnatally. Nevertheless, neurogenic niches persist in the adult cortex and hippocampus in rodents, primates and humans, with adult NSC differentiation sharing key regulatory mechanisms with development. Adult neurogenesis impairments have been linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. Addressing these impairments by using neurotrophic factors is a promising new avenue for therapeutic intervention based on neurogenesis. However, this possibility has been hindered by technical difficulties of using in-vivo models to conduct screens, including working with scarce NSCs in the adult brain and differences between human and mouse models or ethical limitations. METHODS Here, we use a combination of mouse and human stem cell models for comprehensive in-vitro characterization of a novel neurogenic compound, focusing on the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathway. The ability of ENT-A011, a steroidal dehydroepiandrosterone derivative, to activate the tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) receptor was tested through western blotting in NIH-3T3 cells and its neurogenic and neuroprotective action were assessed through proliferation, cell death and Amyloid-β (Aβ) toxicity assays in mouse primary adult hippocampal NSCs, mouse embryonic cortical NSCs and neural progenitor cells (NPCs) differentiated from three human induced pluripotent stem cell lines from healthy and AD donors. RNA-seq profiling was used to assess if the compound acts through the same gene network as BDNF in human NPCs. RESULTS ENT-A011 was able to increase proliferation of mouse primary adult hippocampal NSCs and embryonic cortical NSCs, in the absence of EGF/FGF, while reducing Aβ-induced cell death, acting selectively through TrkB activation. The compound was able to increase astrocytic gene markers involved in NSC maintenance, protect hippocampal neurons from Αβ toxicity and prevent synapse loss after Aβ treatment. ENT-A011 successfully induces proliferation and prevents cell death after Aβ toxicity in human NPCs, acting through a core gene network shared with BDNF as shown through RNA-seq. CONCLUSIONS Our work characterizes a novel BDNF mimetic with preferable pharmacological properties and neurogenic and neuroprotective actions in Alzheimer's disease via stem cell-based screening, demonstrating the promise of stem cell systems for short-listing competitive candidates for further testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina Charou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Thanasis Rogdakis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Alessia Latorrata
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Valcarcel
- Innovative Technologies in Biological Systems SL (INNOPROT), 48160, Derio, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Vasileios Papadogiannis
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), Institute of Marine Biology Biotechnology and Aquaculture (IMBBC), Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Christina Athanasiou
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Biosciences International Graduate School, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexandros Tsengenes
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Biosciences International Graduate School, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria Anna Papadopoulou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Lypitkas
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Matthieu D Lavigne
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Theodora Katsila
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 11635, Athens, Greece
| | - Rebecca C Wade
- Molecular and Cellular Modeling Group, Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Molecular Biology (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing (IWR), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M Zameel Cader
- Translational Molecular Neuroscience Group, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, Kavli Institute for Nanoscience, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 70013, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003, Heraklion, Greece.
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 70013, Heraklion, Greece.
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Fragkiadaki E, Katsanou L, Vartzoka F, Gravanis A, Pitsikas N. Effects of low doses of the novel dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) derivative BNN27 in rat models of anxiety. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:341-350. [PMID: 37917180 PMCID: PMC10806005 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06490-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Several lines of evidence indicate that the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is involved in anxiety. BNN27 is a new DHEA derivative lacking steroidogenic effects. The beneficial effects exerted by BNN27 in preclinical models of schizophrenia and memory disorders have been recently reported. OBJECTIVES The present study was designed to investigate the effects of this DHEA novel analog on anxiety-like behavior in rats. METHODS To this end, the light/dark box, the open field, the contextual fear conditioning, and the excessive self-grooming induced by the serotonin 5-HT2c receptor agonist mCPP tests were utilized. RESULTS Animals treated acutely with BNN27 (1, 3, and 6 mg/kg) dose dependently spent more time in the bright compartment of the light/dark box and in the central zone of the open field with respect to their vehicle-treated cohorts. Further, BNN27 reduced freezing behavior and weakened the mCPP-induced excessive self-grooming. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that BNN27 is a highly potent anxiolytic agent, as in all studied paradigms it showed anxiolytic-like effects in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Fragkiadaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Panepistimiou 3, 415-00, Larissa, Greece
| | - Lamprini Katsanou
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Panepistimiou 3, 415-00, Larissa, Greece
| | - Foteini Vartzoka
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Panepistimiou 3, 415-00, Larissa, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Pitsikas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, Panepistimiou 3, 415-00, Larissa, Greece.
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Narducci D, Charou D, Rogdakis T, Zota I, Bafiti V, Zervou M, Katsila T, Gravanis A, Prousis KC, Charalampopoulos I, Calogeropoulou T. A quest for the stereo-electronic requirements for selective agonism for the neurotrophin receptors TrkA and TrkB in 17-spirocyclic-dehydroepiandrosterone derivatives. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1244133. [PMID: 37840771 PMCID: PMC10568017 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1244133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The neurotrophin system plays a pivotal role in the development, morphology, and survival of the nervous system, and its dysregulation has been manifested in numerous neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. Neurotrophins NGF and BDNF are major growth factors that prevent neuronal death and synaptic loss through binding with high affinity to their specific tropomyosin-related kinase receptors namely, TrkA and TrkB, respectively. The poor pharmacokinetic properties prohibit the use of neurotrophins as therapeutic agents. Our group has previously synthesized BNN27, a prototype small molecule based on dehydroepiandrosterone, mimicking NGF through the activation of the TrkA receptor. Methods To obtain a better understanding of the stereo-electronic requirements for selective activation of TrkA and TrkB receptors, 27 new dehydroepiandrosterone derivatives bearing a C17-spiro-dihydropyran or cyclobutyl moiety were synthesized. The new compounds were evaluated for their ability (a) to selectively activate the TrkA receptor and its downstream signaling kinases Akt and Erk1/2 in PC12 cells, protecting these cells from serum deprivation-induced cell death, and (b) to induce phosphorylation of TrkB and to promote cell survival under serum deprivation conditions in NIH3T3 cells stable transfected with the TrkB receptor and primary cortical astrocytes. In addition the metabolic stability and CYP-mediated reaction was assessed. Results Among the novel derivatives, six were able to selectively protect PC12 cells through interaction with the TrkA receptor and five more to selectively protect TrkB-expressing cells via interaction with the TrkB receptor. In particular, compound ENT-A025 strongly induces TrkA and Erk1/2 phosphorylation, comparable to NGF, and can protect PC12 cells against serum deprivation-induced cell death. Furthermore, ENT-A065, ENT-A066, ENT-A068, ENT-A069, and ENT-A070 showed promising pro-survival effects in the PC12 cell line. Concerning TrkB agonists, ENT-A009 and ENT-A055 were able to induce phosphorylation of TrkB and reduce cell death levels in NIH3T3-TrkB cells. In addition, ENT-A076, ENT-A087, and ENT-A088 possessed antiapoptotic activity in NIH-3T3-TrkB cells exclusively mediated through the TrkB receptor. The metabolic stability and CYP-mediated reaction phenotyping of the potent analogs did not reveal any major liabilities. Discussion We have identified small molecule selective agonists of TrkA and TrkB receptors as promising lead neurotrophin mimetics for the development of potential therapeutics against neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Narducci
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Charou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Thanasis Rogdakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ioanna Zota
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vivi Bafiti
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Zervou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Theodora Katsila
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Kyriakos C. Prousis
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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Giaccio P, Charou D, Diakaki DI, Chita A, Gravanis A, Charalampopoulos I, Roussis V, Ioannou E. Butanolides and Butenolides from a Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. Exert Neuroprotective Activity through Activation of the TrkB Neurotrophin Receptor. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:465. [PMID: 37755078 PMCID: PMC10532803 DOI: 10.3390/md21090465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are incurable and debilitating conditions, characterized by progressive loss and degeneration of vulnerable neuronal populations. Currently, there are no effective therapies available for the treatment of most neurodegenerative disorders. A panel of extracts exhibiting interesting chemical profiles among a high number of bacterial strains isolated from East Mediterranean marine sediments and macroorganisms were evaluated for their activity on TrkB-expressing cells. Among them, the actinobacterial strain Streptomyces sp. BI0788, exhibiting neuroprotective activity in vitro, was selected and cultivated in large-scale. The chemical analysis of its organic extract resulted in the isolation of four new butanolides (1, 4-6), along with two previously reported butanolides (2 and 3) and eight previously reported butenolides (7-14). Compounds 2-4 and 7-14 were evaluated for their neuroprotective effects on TrkB-expressing NIH-3T3 cells. Among them, metabolites 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, 13 and 14 exhibited significant protective activity on the aforementioned cells through the activation of TrkB, the high-affinity receptor for the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which is well known to play a crucial role in neuronal cell survival and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Giaccio
- Section of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece; (P.G.); (D.-I.D.); (V.R.)
| | - Despoina Charou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (D.C.); (A.C.); (A.G.); (I.C.)
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dafni-Ioanna Diakaki
- Section of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece; (P.G.); (D.-I.D.); (V.R.)
| | - Anna Chita
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (D.C.); (A.C.); (A.G.); (I.C.)
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (D.C.); (A.C.); (A.G.); (I.C.)
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece; (D.C.); (A.C.); (A.G.); (I.C.)
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas (IMBB-FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vassilios Roussis
- Section of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece; (P.G.); (D.-I.D.); (V.R.)
| | - Efstathia Ioannou
- Section of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry of Natural Products, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zografou, 15771 Athens, Greece; (P.G.); (D.-I.D.); (V.R.)
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Papadopoulou MA, Rogdakis T, Charou D, Peteinareli M, Ntarntani K, Gravanis A, Chanoumidou K, Charalampopoulos I. Neurotrophin Analog ENT-A044 Activates the p75 Neurotrophin Receptor, Regulating Neuronal Survival in a Cell Context-Dependent Manner. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11683. [PMID: 37511441 PMCID: PMC10380564 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal cell fate is predominantly controlled based on the effects of growth factors, such as neurotrophins, and the activation of a variety of signaling pathways acting through neurotrophin receptors, namely Trk and p75 (p75NTR). Despite their beneficial effects on brain function, their therapeutic use is compromised due to their polypeptidic nature and blood-brain-barrier impermeability. To overcome these limitations, our previous studies have proven that DHEA-derived synthetic analogs can act like neurotrophins, as they lack endocrine side effects. The present study focuses on the biological characterization of a newly synthesized analog, ENT-A044, and its role in inducing cell-specific functions of p75NTR. We show that ENT-A044 can induce cell death and phosphorylation of JNK protein by activating p75NTR. Additionally, ENT-A044 can induce the phosphorylation of TrkB receptor, indicating that our molecule can activate both neurotrophin receptors, enabling the protection of neuronal populations that express both receptors. Furthermore, the present study demonstrates, for the first time, the expression of p75NTR in human-induced Pluripotent Stem Cells-derived Neural Progenitor Cells (hiPSC-derived NPCs) and receptor-dependent cell death induced via ENT-A044 treatment. In conclusion, ENT-A044 is proposed as a lead molecule for the development of novel pharmacological agents, providing new therapeutic approaches and research tools, by controlling p75NTR actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Anna Papadopoulou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Thanasis Rogdakis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Despoina Charou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Maria Peteinareli
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Katerina Ntarntani
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Konstantina Chanoumidou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
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Georgelou K, Saridaki EA, Karali K, Papagiannaki A, Charalampopoulos I, Gravanis A, Tzeranis DS. Microneurotrophin BNN27 Reduces Astrogliosis and Increases Density of Neurons and Implanted Neural Stem Cell-Derived Cells after Spinal Cord Injury. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041170. [PMID: 37189788 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Microneurotrophins, small-molecule mimetics of endogenous neurotrophins, have demonstrated significant therapeutic effects on various animal models of neurological diseases. Nevertheless, their effects on central nervous system injuries remain unknown. Herein, we evaluate the effects of microneurotrophin BNN27, an NGF analog, in the mouse dorsal column crush spinal cord injury (SCI) model. BNN27 was delivered systemically either by itself or combined with neural stem cell (NSC)-seeded collagen-based scaffold grafts, demonstrated recently to improve locomotion performance in the same SCI model. Data validate the ability of NSC-seeded grafts to enhance locomotion recovery, neuronal cell integration with surrounding tissues, axonal elongation and angiogenesis. Our findings also show that systemic administration of BNN27 significantly reduced astrogliosis and increased neuron density in mice SCI lesion sites at 12 weeks post injury. Furthermore, when BNN27 administration was combined with NSC-seeded PCS grafts, BNN27 increased the density of survived implanted NSC-derived cells, possibly addressing a major challenge of NSC-based SCI treatments. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that small-molecule mimetics of endogenous neurotrophins can contribute to effective combinatorial treatments for SCI, by simultaneously regulating key events of SCI and supporting grafted cell therapies in the lesion site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Georgelou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | | | - Kanelina Karali
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Argyri Papagiannaki
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitrios S Tzeranis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus
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SorCS3 promotes the internalization of p75 NTR to inhibit GBM progression. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:313. [PMID: 35393432 PMCID: PMC8989992 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04753-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a fatal malignancy caused by dysregulation of cellular signal transduction. Internalization plays a key role in maintaining signalling balance. Previous reports showed that Sortilin related VPS10 domain containing receptor 3 (SorCS3) has the ability to regulate internalization. However, the impacts of SorCS3 on the biological processes involved in GBM have not yet been reported. In this study, we investigated the bio-function of SorCS3 in GBM. We found that SorCS3 was significantly downregulated in GBM. In addition, low expression level of SorCS3 predicted poor prognoses in patients with GBM. Here, we proved that SorCS3 suppressed cell invasion and proliferation mainly via NGF/p75NTR pathway in GBM. We found that SorCS3 co-localized with p75NTR in GBM cells and regulated the p75NTR protein level by promoting trafficking of the endosomal to the lysosome. Immunofluorescence (IF) and Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) detection confirmed that SorCS3 bound to p75NTR, which subsequently increased the internalization of p75NTR, and then transported p75NTR to the lysosome for degradation, ultimately contributing to inhibit of glioma progression. Taken together, our work suggests that SorCS3 is a marker of promising prognosis in GBM patients and suggests that SorCS3 regulates internalization, which plays a pivotal role in inhibiting glioma progression.
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Capsoni S, Cattaneo A. Getting Into the Brain: The Intranasal Approach to Enhance the Delivery of Nerve Growth Factor and Its Painless Derivative in Alzheimer’s Disease and Down Syndrome. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:773347. [PMID: 35360160 PMCID: PMC8961408 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.773347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurotrophin Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) holds a great potential as a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of neurological diseases. However, its safe and effective delivery to the brain is limited by the fact that NGF needs to be selectively targeted to the brain, to avoid severe side effects such as pain and to bypass the blood brain barrier. In this perspective, we will summarize the different approaches that have been used, or are currently applied, to deliver NGF to the brain, during preclinical and clinical trials to develop NGF as a therapeutic drug for Alzheimer’s disease. We will focus on the intranasal delivery of NGF, an approach that is used to deliver proteins to the brain in a non-invasive, safe, and effective manner minimizing systemic exposure. We will also describe the main experimental facts related to the effective intranasal delivery of a mutant form of NGF [painless NGF, human nerve growth factor painless (hNGFp)] in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease and compare it to other ways to deliver NGF to the brain. We will also report new data on the application of intranasal delivery of hNGFp in Down Syndrome mouse model. These new data extend the therapeutic potential of hNGFp for the treatment of the dementia that is progressively associated to Down Syndrome. In conclusion, we will show how this approach can be a promising strategy and a potential solution for other unmet medical needs of safely and effectively delivering this neuroprotective neurotrophin to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Capsoni
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
- Section of Physiology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- *Correspondence: Simona Capsoni,
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
- European Brain Research Institute–Fondazione Rita Levi-Montalcini, Rome, Italy
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ENT-A010, a Novel Steroid Derivative, Displays Neuroprotective Functions and Modulates Microglial Responses. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030424. [PMID: 35327616 PMCID: PMC8946810 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tackling neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation is particularly challenging due to the complexity of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, as well as the limited drug accessibility to the brain. The activation of tropomyosin-related kinase A (TRKA) receptor signaling by the nerve growth factor (NGF) or the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) may combat neurodegeneration and regulate microglial function. In the present study, we synthesized a C-17-spiro-cyclopropyl DHEA derivative (ENT-A010), which was capable of activating TRKA. ENT-A010 protected PC12 cells against serum starvation-induced cell death, dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons against NGF deprivation-induced apoptosis and hippocampal neurons against Aβ-induced apoptosis. In addition, ENT-A010 pretreatment partially restored homeostatic features of microglia in the hippocampus of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated mice, enhanced Aβ phagocytosis, and increased Ngf expression in microglia in vitro. In conclusion, the small molecule ENT-A010 elicited neuroprotective effects and modulated microglial function, thereby emerging as an interesting compound, which merits further study in the treatment of CNS disorders.
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10
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Singh R, Bansal R. 16-Substituted steroids alleviate LPS-induced neurodegenerative disorders in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 895:173876. [PMID: 33460614 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.173876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The neuroprotective effects of some 16-substituted steroidal derivatives against the locomotive impairment and cognitive deficits in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation model of rats have been investigated. The in vivo and in vitro evaluations include behavioural tests (actophotometer, block tests, Morris water maize and elevated plus maize), estimation of the biochemical parameters such as acetylcholinesterase, lipid peroxide, reactive oxygen, and nitric oxide species and molecular assays for the key proinflammatory mediators like Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin 1 beta (IL- 1β) after 21 days of the treatment with the steroids. Behavioural and biochemical studies indicated impairment in the locomotor activity and cognitive dysfunction in rats after LPS treatment. In addition, higher levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the blood serum of the rats were also noticed. However, significant alleviation of LPS-induced movement and memory disorders was observed in LPS-injected rats after treatment with 16-substituted steroidal derivatives 1-11. Furthermore the biochemical and molecular studies revealed suppression of oxidative and nitrosative stress, decreased acetylcholinesterase activity, and reduction of TNF-α and IL-1β levels after treatment with compounds 1-11. Among all the 16-substituted steroidal derivatives, the compounds 8 and 11 were found to be the most active neuroprotective agents and produced effects marginally better than standard drug dexamethasone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjit Singh
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ranju Bansal
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
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11
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Tsika C, Tzatzarakis MN, Antimisiaris SG, Tsoka P, Efstathopoulos P, Charalampopoulos I, Gravanis A, Tsilimbaris MK. Quantification of BNN27, a novel neuroprotective 17-spiroepoxy dehydroepiandrosterone derivative in the blood and retina of rodents, after single intraperitoneal administration. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2021; 9:e00724. [PMID: 33638308 PMCID: PMC7911036 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BNN27 is a novel 17‐spiroepoxy derivative of the neurosteroid Dehydroepiandrosterone with neuroprotective properties. The purpose of this study was the detection and quantification of BNN27 after single intraperitoneal administration, in the serum and retina of normal rodents. Forty‐two C57BL/6 mice and 48 Sprague–Dawley rats were used for the quantification of BNN27 in the blood serum and retina, respectively. BNN27 was injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) at concentrations of 100 and 30 mg/kg of body weight (b.w.), respectively. The blood was collected with retro‐orbital bleeding and the retina was isolated after enucleation at various time points. The molecule concentrations were measured with Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS). Non‐compartmental analysis was used to determine pharmacokinetic parameters. BNN27 was found to have an elimination constant kel = 0.465 h−1 and mean residence time (MRT) 2.154 h in the mouse serum. The maximum concentration (Cmax) in the retina was detected at 2 h (tCmax) after intraperitoneal administration and was equal to 1100 ng/g. BNN27 is rapidly eliminated from both blood and retina. In the retina specifically, it is undetectable 6 h after injection. BNN27 shows a rapid systemic elimination as anticipated by its small size and lipophilicity. It is measurable in small peripheral tissues such as the rat retina, after one single i.p. injection, using a simple method such as LC‐MS. Its detection in the retina corroborates the existing biological data that the molecule crosses the blood–retinal barrier, highlighting it as a potential neuroprotective agent for retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysanthi Tsika
- Laboratory of Vision and Optics, Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, Heraklion, Greece
| | | | - Sophia G Antimisiaris
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Rio, Greece.,Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Chemical Engineering Sciences, FORTH/ICE-HT, Rio, Greece
| | - Pavlina Tsoka
- Laboratory of Vision and Optics, Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, Heraklion, Greece
| | | | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation of Research and Technology Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation of Research and Technology Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Greece
| | - Miltiadis K Tsilimbaris
- Laboratory of Vision and Optics, Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, Heraklion, Greece
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12
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Kalafatakis I, Patellis A, Charalampopoulos I, Gravanis A, Karagogeos D. The beneficial role of the synthetic microneurotrophin BNN20 in a focal demyelination model. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:1474-1495. [PMID: 33583101 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BNN20, a C17-spiroepoxy derivative of the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone, has been shown to exhibit strong neuroprotective properties but its role in glial populations has not been assessed. Our aim was to investigate the effect of BNN20 on glial populations by using in vitro and in vivo approaches, taking advantage of the well-established lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC)-induced focal demyelination mouse model. Our in vivo studies, performed in male mice, showed that BNN20 treatment leads to an increased number of mature oligodendrocytes (OLs) in this model. It diminishes astrocytic accumulation during the demyelination phase leading to a faster remyelination process, while it does not affect oligodendrocyte precursor cell recruitment or microglia/macrophage accumulation. Additionally, our in vitro studies showed that BNN20 acts directly to OLs and enhances their maturation even after they were treated with LPC. This beneficial effect of BNN20 is mediated, primarily, through the neurotrophin receptor TrkA. In addition, BNN20 reduces microglial activation and their transition to their pro-inflammatory state upon lipopolysaccharides stimulation in vitro. Taken together our results suggest that BNN20 could serve as an important molecule to develop blood-brain barrier-permeable synthetic agonists of neurotrophin receptors that could reduce inflammation, protect and increase the number of functional OLs by promoting their differentiation/maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Kalafatakis
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
| | - Domna Karagogeos
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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13
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Kokras N, Dioli C, Paravatou R, Sotiropoulos MG, Delis F, Antoniou K, Calogeropoulou T, Charalampopoulos I, Gravanis A, Dalla C. Psychoactive properties of BNN27, a novel neurosteroid derivate, in male and female rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:2435-2449. [PMID: 32506234 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05545-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Νeurosteroids, like dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), play an important role in neurodegeneration and neural protection, but they are metabolized in androgens, estrogens, or other active metabolites. A newly developed synthetic DHEA analog, BNN27 ((20R)-3β,21-dihydroxy-17R,20-epoxy-5-pregnene), exerts neurotrophic and neuroprotective actions without estrogenic or androgenic effects. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate potential anxiolytic or antidepressant properties of BNN27. METHODS Male and female adult Wistar rats were treated with BNN27 (10, 30, or 90 mg/kg, i.p.) and subjected to behavioral tests measuring locomotion, exploration, and "depressive-like" behavior (open field, light/dark box, hole-board, and forced swim tests). The hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were collected for glutamate and GABA measurements, and trunk blood was collected for gonadal hormone analysis. RESULTS Acute high-dose BNN27 reduced locomotion and exploratory behavior in both sexes. Intermediate acute doses (30 mg/kg) of BNN27 reduced exploration and testosterone levels only in males, and enhanced progesterone levels in both sexes. Notably, with the present design, BNN27 had neither anxiolytic nor antidepressant effects and did not affect estrogen levels. Interestingly, acute administration of a low BNN27 dose (10 mg/kg) increased glutamate turnover, GABA, and glutamine levels in the hippocampus. The same dose also enhanced glutamate levels in the prefrontal cortex of males only. Sex differences were apparent in the basal levels of behavioral, hormonal, and neurochemical parameters, as expected. CONCLUSIONS BNN27 affects locomotion, progesterone, and testosterone levels, as well as the glutamatergic and GABAergic systems of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in a sex-dependent way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Kokras
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527, Athens, Greece.,First Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Dioli
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Rafaella Paravatou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Marinos G Sotiropoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527, Athens, Greece.,Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale ΒΤΜ 9002AA, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Foteini Delis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Katerina Antoniou
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Theodora Calogeropoulou
- Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, 48 Vassileos Constantinou Ave, 11635, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71110, Heraklion, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation of Research and Technology Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71110, Heraklion, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation of Research and Technology Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Greece
| | - Christina Dalla
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Street, 11527, Athens, Greece.
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14
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Pagella P, Miran S, Neto E, Martin I, Lamghari M, Mitsiadis TA. Human dental pulp stem cells exhibit enhanced properties in comparison to human bone marrow stem cells on neurites outgrowth. FASEB J 2020; 34:5499-5511. [PMID: 32096581 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902482r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the capacity to self-renew and differentiate into specific cell types and are, therefore, key players during tissue repair and regeneration. The use of MSCs for the regeneration of tissues in vivo is increasingly being explored and already constitutes a promising alternative to existing clinical treatments. MSCs also exert paracrine and trophic functions, including the promotion of innervation that plays fundamental roles in regeneration and in restoration of the function of organs. Human bone marrow stem cells (hBMSCs) and human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) have been used in studies that aimed at the repair and/or regeneration of bone or other tissues of the craniofacial complex. However, the capabilities of hBMSCs and hDPSCs to elicit the growth of specific axons in order to reestablish functional innervation of the healing tissues are not known. Here, we compared the neurotrophic effects of hDPSCs and hBMSCs on trigeminal and dorsal root ganglia neurons using microfluidic organs-on-chips devices. We found that hDPSCs express significantly higher levels of neurotrophins than hBMSCs and consequently neurons cocultured with hDPSCs develop longer axons in the microfluidic co-culture system when compared to neurons cocultured with hBMSCs. Moreover, hDPSCs elicited the formation of extensive axonal networks and established close contacts with neurons, a phenomenon not observed in presence of hBMSCs. Taken together, these findings indicate that hDPSCs constitute a superior option for restoring the functionality of damaged craniofacial tissues, as they are able to support and promote extensive trigeminal innervation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Pagella
- Orofacial Development and Regeneration, Institute of Oral Biology, Centre of Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Shayee Miran
- Orofacial Development and Regeneration, Institute of Oral Biology, Centre of Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Estrela Neto
- i3S, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering (INEB), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ivan Martin
- Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Meriem Lamghari
- i3S, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering (INEB), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Thimios A Mitsiadis
- Orofacial Development and Regeneration, Institute of Oral Biology, Centre of Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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15
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Ibán-Arias R, Lisa S, Poulaki S, Mastrodimou N, Charalampopoulos I, Gravanis A, Thermos K. Effect of topical administration of the microneurotrophin BNN27 in the diabetic rat retina. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 257:2429-2436. [PMID: 31512044 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-019-04460-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complex eye disease associated with diabetes mellitus. It is characterized by three pathophysiological components, namely microangiopathy, neurodegeneration, and inflammation. We recently reported that intraperitoneal administration of BNN27, a novel neurosteroidal microneurotrophin, reversed the diabetes-induced neurodegeneration and inflammation in rats treated with streptozotocin (STZ), by activating the NGF TrkA and p75 receptors. The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of BNN27 to protect retinal neurons when applied topically as eye drops in the same model. METHODS The STZ rat model of DR was employed. BNN27 was administered as eye drops to diabetic Sprague-Dawley rats for 7 days, 4 weeks post-STZ (70 mg/kg) injection. Immunohistochemistry and western blot analyses were employed to examine the viability of retinal neurons in control, diabetic, and diabetic-treated animals and the involvement of the TrkA receptor and its downstream signaling ERK1/2 kinases, respectively. RESULTS BNN27 reversed the STZ-induced attenuation of the immunoreactive brain nitric oxide synthetase (bNOS)- and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-expressing amacrine cells and neurofilament (NFL)-expressing ganglion cell axons in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, BNN27 activated/phosphorylated the TrkA receptor and its downstream prosurvival signaling pathway, ERK1/2 kinases. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study provide solid evidence regarding the efficacy of BNN27 as a neuroprotectant to the diabetic retina when administered topically, and suggest that its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles render it a putative therapeutic for diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Ibán-Arias
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Department of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Genetics of Neurodegeneration, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Silvia Lisa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Department of Cell Biology and Pathology, Instituto de Neurociencias de Castilla y León (INCyL) University of Salamanca & Institute of Biomedical Research, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Smaragda Poulaki
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Niki Mastrodimou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Kyriaki Thermos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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16
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Yilmaz C, Karali K, Fodelianaki G, Gravanis A, Chavakis T, Charalampopoulos I, Alexaki VI. Neurosteroids as regulators of neuroinflammation. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100788. [PMID: 31513776 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a physiological protective response in the context of infection and injury. However, neuroinflammation, especially if chronic, may also drive neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), display inflammatory activation of microglia and astrocytes. Intriguingly, the central nervous system (CNS) is a highly steroidogenic environment synthesizing steroids de novo, as well as metabolizing steroids deriving from the circulation. Neurosteroid synthesis can be substantially affected by neuroinflammation, while, in turn, several steroids, such as 17β-estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and allopregnanolone, can regulate neuroinflammatory responses. Here, we review the role of neurosteroids in neuroinflammation in the context of MS, AD, PD and TBI and describe underlying molecular mechanisms. Moreover, we introduce the concept that synthetic neurosteroid analogues could be potentially utilized for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canelif Yilmaz
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kanelina Karali
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Georgia Fodelianaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Triantafyllos Chavakis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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17
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In organotypic cultures, the modiolus (MOD) region of newborn rats shows a fourfold higher rate of cell death than the organ of Corti (OC). The differing vulnerability of OC and MOD cells is related to differential expression of numerous genes (DEG). MATERIALS AND METHODS Organotypic cultures of OC and MOD of 3-5-day-old rats were exposed to a normoxic or a hypoxic (pO2 10-20 mmHg; 5 h) atmosphere. Cell death rate and gene expression as detected by c‑DNA microarray analysis were determined 24 h after the culture was created. Genes with modified expression (n = 60) were analyzed for biological processes according to the DAVID Gene Ontology Database (GO). Molecular networks were created using the STRING and ConsensusPathDB databases. RESULTS The network of the GO annotations "hypoxia", "inflammation", and "mechanical stimulus" indicates the existence of two gene clusters: a cluster with pro-inflammatory genes (Ccl3, Cxcl2, Cxcr4, Ccl20) and a cluster with hypoxia-associated genes (e.g., c-Jun, Hif1a, and Vegfa). The network of the GO annotations "positive and negative regulation of neuron apoptotic process" suggests that the differential expression of c-Jun, Ngfr, and Casp3 is important for regulation of programmed cell death in neuronal cells of the OC and MOD. CONCLUSION While c‑JUN acts as an important modulator of the balance between cell death and survival, the associations of NGFR and CASP3 seem to be significant for the initiation of cell death. The evaluation and application of findings from biostatistical databases is important for understanding the function of individual genes and gene clusters in medically relevant biological processes.
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18
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Tsoka P, Matsumoto H, Maidana DE, Kataoka K, Naoumidi I, Gravanis A, Vavvas DG, Tsilimbaris MK. Effects of BNN27, a novel C17-spiroepoxy steroid derivative, on experimental retinal detachment-induced photoreceptor cell death. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10661. [PMID: 30006508 PMCID: PMC6045604 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28633-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal detachment (RD) leads to photoreceptor cell death secondary to the physical separation of the retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium. Intensifying photoreceptor survival in the detached retina could be remarkably favorable for many retinopathies in which RD can be seen. BNN27, a blood-brain barrier (BBB)-permeable, C17-spiroepoxy derivative of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has shown promising neuroprotective activity through interaction with nerve growth factor receptors, TrkA and p75NTR. Here, we administered BNN27 systemically in a murine model of RD. TUNEL+ photoreceptors were significantly decreased 24 hours post injury after a single administration of 200 mg/kg BNN27. Furthermore, BNN27 increased inflammatory cell infiltration, as well as, two markers of gliosis 24 hours post RD. However, single or multiple doses of BNN27 were not able to protect the overall survival of photoreceptors 7 days post injury. Additionally, BNN27 did not induce the activation/phosphorylation of TrkAY490 in the detached retina although the mRNA levels of the receptor were increased in the photoreceptors post injury. Together, these findings, do not demonstrate neuroprotective activity of BNN27 in experimentally-induced RD. Further studies are needed in order to elucidate the paradox/contradiction of these results and the mechanism of action of BNN27 in this model of photoreceptor cell damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavlina Tsoka
- Laboratory of Optics and Vision, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Angiogenesis Laboratory, Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hidetaka Matsumoto
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel E Maidana
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Keiko Kataoka
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Irene Naoumidi
- Laboratory of Optics and Vision, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Demetrios G Vavvas
- Angiogenesis Laboratory, Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Miltiadis K Tsilimbaris
- Laboratory of Optics and Vision, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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19
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Ibán-Arias R, Lisa S, Mastrodimou N, Kokona D, Koulakis E, Iordanidou P, Kouvarakis A, Fothiadaki M, Papadogkonaki S, Sotiriou A, Katerinopoulos HE, Gravanis A, Charalampopoulos I, Thermos K. The Synthetic Microneurotrophin BNN27 Affects Retinal Function in Rats With Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes. Diabetes 2018; 67:321-333. [PMID: 29208634 DOI: 10.2337/db17-0391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BNN27, a C17-spiroepoxy derivative of DHEA, was shown to have antiapoptotic properties via mechanisms involving the nerve growth factor receptors (tropomyosin-related kinase A [TrkA]/neurotrophin receptor p75 [p75NTR]). In this study, we examined the effects of BNN27 on neural/glial cell function, apoptosis, and inflammation in the experimental rat streptozotocin (STZ) model of diabetic retinopathy (DR). The ability of BNN27 to activate the TrkA receptor and regulate p75NTR expression was investigated. BNN27 (2,10, and 50 mg/kg i.p. for 7 days) administration 4 weeks post-STZ injection (paradigm A) reversed the diabetes-induced glial activation and loss of function of amacrine cells (brain nitric oxide synthetase/tyrosine hydroxylase expression) and ganglion cell axons via a TrkA receptor (TrkAR)-dependent mechanism. BNN27 activated/phosphorylated the TrkAY490 residue in the absence but not the presence of TrkAR inhibitor and abolished the diabetes-induced increase in p75NTR expression. However, it had no effect on retinal cell death (TUNEL+ cells). A similar result was observed when BNN27 (10 mg/kg i.p.) was administered at the onset of diabetes, every other day for 4 weeks (paradigm B). However, BNN27 decreased the activation of caspase-3 in both paradigms. Finally, BNN27 reduced the proinflammatory (TNFα and IL-1β) and increased the anti-inflammatory (IL-10 and IL-4) cytokine levels. These findings suggest that BNN27 has the pharmacological profile of a therapeutic for DR, since it targets both the neurodegenerative and inflammatory components of the disease.
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MESH Headings
- Amacrine Cells/drug effects
- Amacrine Cells/immunology
- Amacrine Cells/metabolism
- Amacrine Cells/pathology
- Animals
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/administration & dosage
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use
- Axons/drug effects
- Axons/immunology
- Axons/metabolism
- Axons/pathology
- Dehydroepiandrosterone/administration & dosage
- Dehydroepiandrosterone/therapeutic use
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/complications
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/drug therapy
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/physiopathology
- Diabetic Retinopathy/immunology
- Diabetic Retinopathy/metabolism
- Diabetic Retinopathy/pathology
- Diabetic Retinopathy/prevention & control
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Eye Proteins/agonists
- Eye Proteins/metabolism
- Female
- Ganglia, Sensory/drug effects
- Ganglia, Sensory/immunology
- Ganglia, Sensory/metabolism
- Ganglia, Sensory/pathology
- Male
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/agonists
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/metabolism
- Neuroglia/drug effects
- Neuroglia/immunology
- Neuroglia/metabolism
- Neuroglia/pathology
- Neuroprotective Agents/administration & dosage
- Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use
- Phosphorylation/drug effects
- Protein Processing, Post-Translational/drug effects
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor, Nerve Growth Factor/agonists
- Receptor, Nerve Growth Factor/metabolism
- Receptor, trkA/agonists
- Receptor, trkA/metabolism
- Retina/drug effects
- Retina/immunology
- Retina/pathology
- Retina/physiopathology
- Streptozocin
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Ibán-Arias
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Silvia Lisa
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Niki Mastrodimou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Despina Kokona
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Emmanuil Koulakis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Panagiota Iordanidou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Antonis Kouvarakis
- Laboratory of Environmental Chemical Processes, Department of Chemistry, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Myrto Fothiadaki
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Sofia Papadogkonaki
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Aggeliki Sotiriou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Kyriaki Thermos
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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Bonetto G, Charalampopoulos I, Gravanis A, Karagogeos D. The novel synthetic microneurotrophin BNN27 protects mature oligodendrocytes against cuprizone-induced death, through the NGF receptor TrkA. Glia 2017; 65:1376-1394. [PMID: 28567989 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BNN27, a member of a chemical library of C17-spiroepoxy derivatives of the neurosteroid DHEA, has been shown to regulate neuronal survival through its selective interaction with NGF receptors (TrkA and p75NTR ), but its role on glial populations has not been studied. Here, we present evidence that BNN27 provides trophic action (rescue from apoptosis), in a TrkA-dependent manner, to mature oligodendrocytes when they are challenged with the cuprizone toxin in culture. BNN27 treatment also increases oligodendrocyte maturation and diminishes microglia activation in vitro. The effect of BNN27 in the cuprizone mouse model of demyelination in vivo has also been investigated. In this model, that does not directly involve the adaptive immune system, BNN27 can protect from demyelination without affecting the remyelinating process. BNN27 preserves mature oligodendrocyte during demyelination, while reducing microgliosis and astrogliosis. Our findings suggest that BNN27 may serve as a lead molecule to develop neurotrophin-like blood-brain barrier (BBB)-permeable protective agents of oligodendrocyte populations and myelin, with potential applications in the treatment of demyelinating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bonetto
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Achille Gravanis
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
| | - Domna Karagogeos
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology - FoRTH, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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