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Sandhu A, Rawat K, Gautam V, Kumar A, Sharma A, Bhatia A, Grover S, Saini L, Saha L. Neuroprotective effect of PPAR gamma agonist in rat model of autism spectrum disorder: Role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 135:111126. [PMID: 39179196 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical manifestation of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is linked to the disruption of fundamental neurodevelopmental pathways. Emerging evidences claim to have an upregulation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway while downregulation of PPARγ pathway in ASD. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of pioglitazone, a PPARγ agonist, in rat model of ASD. The study further explores the possible role of PPARγ and Wnt/β-catenin pathway and their interaction in ASD by using their modulators. MATERIAL AND METHODS Pregnant female Wistar rats received 600 mg/kg of valproic acid (VPA) to induce autistic symptoms in pups. Pioglitazone (10 mg/kg) was used to evaluate neurobehaviors, relative mRNA expression of inflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α), apoptotic markers (Bcl-2, Bax, & Caspase-3) and histopathology (H&E, Nissl stain, Immunohistochemistry). Effect of pioglitazone was evaluated on Wnt pathway and 4 μg/kg dose of 6-BIO (Wnt modulator) was used to study the PPARγ pathway. RESULTS ASD model was established in pups as indicated by core autistic symptoms, increased neuroinflammation, apoptosis and histopathological neurodegeneration in cerebellum, hippocampus and amygdala. Pioglitazone significantly attenuated these alterations in VPA-exposed rats. The expression study results indicated an increase in key transcription factor, β-catenin in VPA-rats suggesting an upregulation of canonical Wnt pathway in them. Pioglitazone significantly downregulated the Wnt signaling by suppressing the expression of Wnt signaling-associated proteins. The inhibiting effect of Wnt pathway on PPARγ activity was indicated by downregulation of PPARγ-associated protein in VPA-exposed rats and those administered with 6-BIO. CONCLUSION In the present study, upregulation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway was demonstrated in ASD rat model. Pioglitazone administration significantly ameliorated these symptoms potentially through its neuroprotective effect and its ability to downregulate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The antagonism between the PPARγ and Wnt pathway offers a promising therapeutic approach for addressing ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arushi Sandhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Vipasha Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Anil Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Antika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Sandeep Grover
- Department of Psychiatry, Post Graduate Institute ofMedical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Lokesh Saini
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001, India
| | - Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India.
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Alwaili MA, Elhoby AH, El-Sayed NM, Mahmoud IZ, Alharthi A, El-Nablaway M, Khodeer DM. Cardioprotective Effects of α-Asarone Against Hexavalent Chromium-Induced Oxidative Damage in Mice. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:3383-3397. [PMID: 39100222 PMCID: PMC11297565 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s464334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This comprehensive study investigated the therapeutic potential of α-asarone in mitigating myocardial oxidative damage, primarily induced by hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) exposure in mice. Methods In this experiment, 24 mice were divided into four groups to assess the cardioprotective role of α-asarone. The study focused on two treatment groups, receiving 25 mg and 50 mg of α-asarone, respectively. These groups were compared against a control group subjected to Cr(VI) without α-asarone treatment, and a normal control negative group. The key biochemical parameters evaluated included serum levels of Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) and Troponin I, markers indicative of myocardial damage. Additionally, the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured to assess lipid peroxidation, alongside the evaluation of key inflammatory biomarkers in cardiac tissue homogenates, such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Results Remarkably, α-asarone treatment resulted in a significant reduction in these markers compared to the control group. The treatment also elevated the activity of cardinal antioxidant enzymes like catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced the glutathione (GSH). Furthermore, a notable upregulation of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPAR-γ) in cardiac tissue homogenates was observed, highlighting a potential pathway through which α-asarone exerts its protective effects. Histopathological analysis of cardiac tissues revealed that α-asarone ameliorated the structural lesions induced by Cr(VI). The study thus provides substantial evidence that α-asarone ameliorates Cr(VI)-induced cardiotoxicity through a multifaceted approach. It enhances cardiac enzyme function, modulates free radical generation, improves antioxidant status, and mitigates histopathological damage in cardiac tissues. Given these findings, α-asarone emerges as a promising agent against Cr(VI)-induced myocardial injury. Purpose This study paves the way for further research into the cardioprotective properties of α-asarone and its potential application in clinical settings by specifically exploring the protective efficacy of α-asarone against Cr(VI)-induced cardiotoxicity and delineating the underlying biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Abdullah Alwaili
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdallah H Elhoby
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Norhan M El-Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Islam Z Mahmoud
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Afaf Alharthi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad El-Nablaway
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Diriyah, Riyadh, 13713, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Dina M Khodeer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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Kale G, Addepalli V, Joshi S. A snapshot on introspection of autism spectrum disorder. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:610. [PMID: 38704762 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09514-5] [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: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by restricted interests and difficulty with social communication. ASD is characterized by heightened neuroinflammation and irregular neuronal connections. ASD is more frequent in male than female with male-female ratio of around 4:1. ASD affects 2.8% or 1 in 36 8-year-olds, based on the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Various factors like Environmental, Genetic, Epigenetic and Developmental factors are linked with genesis of ASD. Repetitive behaviors, Impaired communication skills, difficulty with social interaction are some of the clinical features of ASD. Current Pharmacotherapy of ASD limits to management of symptoms only, not cure. The stem cell therapy has a promising potential to be a breakthrough in treating ASD. Various types of stem cells have been successfully tested in children with ASD. AI has a potential to emerge as a tool for early detection of ASD. Robotics can assist the children with ASD to overcome the challenges associated with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govind Kale
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, 411018, Maharashtra, India
| | - Veeranjaneyulu Addepalli
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, 411018, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Sharvari Joshi
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, Pune, 411018, Maharashtra, India
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Sandhu A, Rawat K, Gautam V, Bhatia A, Grover S, Saini L, Saha L. Ameliorating effect of pioglitazone on prenatal valproic acid-induced behavioral and neurobiological abnormalities in autism spectrum disorder in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 237:173721. [PMID: 38307465 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopment disorder that mainly arises due to abnormalities in different brain regions, resulting in behavioral deficits. Besides its diverse phenotypical features, ASD is associated with complex and varied etiology, presenting challenges in understanding its precise neuro-pathophysiology. Pioglitazone was reported to have a fundamental role in neuroprotection in various other neurological disorders. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of pioglitazone in the prenatal valproic acid (VPA)-model of ASD in Wistar rats. Pregnant female Wistar rats received VPA on Embryonic day (E.D12.5) to induce autistic-like-behavioral and neurobiological alterations in their offspring. VPA-exposed rats presented core behavioral symptoms of ASD such as deficits in social interaction, poor spatial and learning behavior, increased anxiety, locomotory and repetitive activity, and decreased exploratory activity. Apart from these, VPA exposure also stimulated neurochemical and histopathological neurodegeneration in various brain regions. We administered three different doses of pioglitazone i.e., 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg in rats to assess various parameters. Of all the doses, our study highlighted that 10 mg/kg pioglitazone efficiently attenuated the autistic symptoms along with other neurochemical alterations such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis. Moreover, pioglitazone significantly attenuated the neurodegeneration by restoring the neuronal loss in the hippocampus and cerebellum. Taken together, our study suggests that pioglitazone exhibits therapeutic potential in alleviating behavioral abnormalities induced by prenatal VPA exposure in rats. However, further research is needed to fully understand and establish pioglitazone's effectiveness in treating ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arushi Sandhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Vipasha Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education andResearch (PGIMER), 2nd Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Sandeep Grover
- Department of Psychiatry, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Lokesh Saini
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur 342001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India.
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Nakhal MM, Jayaprakash P, Aburuz S, Sadek B, Akour A. Canagliflozin Ameliorates Oxidative Stress and Autistic-like Features in Valproic-Acid-Induced Autism in Rats: Comparison with Aripiprazole Action. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050769. [PMID: 37242552 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on their proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, recent studies have examined the therapeutic potential of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the effects of subchronic systemic treatment with intraperitoneal (i.p.) canagliflozin (20, 50, and 100 mg/kg) compared to aripiprazole (ARP) (3 mg/g, i.p.) in a valproic acid (VPA)-induced rat model of autism. The behavioral characteristics of ASD, oxidative stress, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in rats with ASD-like behaviors, which were induced by prenatal exposure to VPA, were evaluated. The behavioral assessment methods used for this study were the open field test (OFT), the marble-burying test (MBT), and the nestlet-shredding test (NST) to examine their exploratory, anxiety, and compulsiveness-like actions, while the biochemical assessment used for this study was an ELISA colorimetric assay to measure ASD biomarker activity in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and cerebellum. Rats that were pretreated with 100 mg/kg of canagliflozin displayed a significantly lower percentage of shredding (1.12 ± 0.6%, p < 0.01) compared to the ARP group (3.52 ± 1.6%). Pretreatment with (20 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg) canagliflozin reversed anxiety levels and hyperactivity and reduced hyper-locomotor activity significantly (161 ± 34.9 s, p < 0.05; 154 ± 44.7 s, p < 0.05; 147 ± 33.6 s, p < 0.05) when compared with the VPA group (303 ± 140 s). Moreover, canagliflozin and ARP mitigated oxidative stress status by restoring levels of glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) and increasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in all tested brain regions. The observed results propose repurposing of canagliflozin in the therapeutic management of ASD. However, further investigations are still required to verify the clinical relevance of canagliflozin in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Moutaz Nakhal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Petrilla Jayaprakash
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salahdein Aburuz
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Bassem Sadek
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amal Akour
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
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