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Merighi A. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Nociception, and Pain. Biomolecules 2024; 14:539. [PMID: 38785946 PMCID: PMC11118093 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050539] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This article examines the involvement of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the control of nociception and pain. BDNF, a neurotrophin known for its essential role in neuronal survival and plasticity, has garnered significant attention for its potential implications as a modulator of synaptic transmission. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into the multifaceted interactions between BDNF and pain pathways, encompassing both physiological and pathological pain conditions. I delve into the molecular mechanisms underlying BDNF's involvement in pain processing and discuss potential therapeutic applications of BDNF and its mimetics in managing pain. Furthermore, I highlight recent advancements and challenges in translating BDNF-related research into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adalberto Merighi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095 Turin, Italy
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2
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Wan T, Zhang FS, Qin MY, Jiang HR, Zhang M, Qu Y, Wang YL, Zhang PX. Growth factors: Bioactive macromolecular drugs for peripheral nerve injury treatment - Molecular mechanisms and delivery platforms. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116024. [PMID: 38113623 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioactive macromolecular drugs known as Growth Factors (GFs), approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have found successful application in clinical practice. They hold significant promise for addressing peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs). Peripheral nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) loaded with GFs, in the context of tissue engineering, can ensure sustained and efficient release of these bioactive compounds. This, in turn, maintains a stable, long-term, and effective GF concentration essential for treating damaged peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerve regeneration is a complex process that entails the secretion of various GFs. Following PNI, GFs play a pivotal role in promoting nerve cell growth and survival, axon and myelin sheath regeneration, cell differentiation, and angiogenesis. They also regulate the regenerative microenvironment, stimulate plasticity changes post-nerve injury, and, consequently, expedite nerve structure and function repair. Both exogenous and endogenous GFs, including NGF, BDNF, NT-3, GDNF, IGF-1, bFGF, and VEGF, have been successfully loaded onto NGCs using techniques like physical adsorption, blend doping, chemical covalent binding, and engineered transfection. These approaches have effectively promoted the repair of peripheral nerves. Numerous studies have demonstrated similar tissue functional therapeutic outcomes compared to autologous nerve transplantation. This evidence underscores the substantial clinical application potential of GFs in the domain of peripheral nerve repair. In this article, we provide an overview of GFs in the context of peripheral nerve regeneration and drug delivery systems utilizing NGCs. Looking ahead, commercial materials for peripheral nerve repair hold the potential to facilitate the effective regeneration of damaged peripheral nerves and maintain the functionality of distant target organs through the sustained release of GFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Wan
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China; National Centre for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Feng-Shi Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China; National Centre for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Ming-Yu Qin
- Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215026, China
| | - Hao-Ran Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China; National Centre for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China; National Centre for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Yang Qu
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China; National Centre for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China
| | - Yi-Lin Wang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China; National Centre for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China.
| | - Pei-Xun Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China; Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration, Peking University, Beijing 100044, China; National Centre for Trauma Medicine, Beijing 100044, China; Peking University People's Hospital Qingdao Hospital, Qingdao 266000, China.
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Zhang WJ, Liu SC, Ming LG, Yu JW, Zuo C, Hu DX, Luo HL, Zhang Q. Potential role of Schwann cells in neuropathic pain. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 956:175955. [PMID: 37541365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NPP) is a common syndrome associated with most forms of disease, which poses a serious threat to human health. NPP may persist even after the nociceptive stimulation is eliminated, and treatment is extremely challenging in such cases. Schwann cells (SCs) form the myelin sheaths around neuronal axons and play a crucial role in neural information transmission. SCs can secrete trophic factors to nourish and protect axons, and can further secrete pain-related factors to induce pain. SCs may be activated by peripheral nerve injury, triggering the transformation of myelinated and non-myelinated SCs into cell phenotypes that specifically promote repair. These differentiated SCs provide necessary signals and spatial clues for survival, axonal regeneration, and nerve regeneration of damaged neurons. They can further change the microenvironment around the regions of nerve injury, and relieve the pain by repairing the injured nerve. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the biological characteristics of SCs, discuss the relationship between SCs and nerve injury, and explore the potential mechanism of SCs and the occurrence of NPP. Moreover, we summarize the feasible strategies of SCs in the treatment of NPP, and attempt to elucidate the deficiencies and defects of SCs in the treatment of NPP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jun Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China
| | - Si-Cheng Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China
| | - Li-Guo Ming
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China
| | - Jian-Wen Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China
| | - Cheng Zuo
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China
| | - Dong-Xia Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China
| | - Hong-Liang Luo
- Department of Gastrointestinal surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China.
| | - Qiao Zhang
- Orthopedics Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi province, 343000, China.
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Mohamed T, Colciago A, Montagnani Marelli M, Moretti RM, Magnaghi V. Protein kinase C epsilon activation regulates proliferation, migration, and epithelial to mesenchymal-like transition in rat Schwann cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1237479. [PMID: 37645595 PMCID: PMC10461112 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1237479] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Protein kinase type C-ε (PKCε) plays an important role in the sensitization of primary afferent nociceptors, promoting mechanical hyperalgesia. In accordance, we showed that PKCε is present in sensory neurons of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), participating in the control of pain onset and chronification. Recently, it was found that PKCε is also implicated in the control of cell proliferation, promoting mitogenesis and metastatic invasion in some types of cancer. However, its role in the main glial cell of the PNS, the Schwann cells (SCs), was still not investigated. Methods Rat primary SCs culture were treated with different pharmacologic approaches, including the PKCε agonist dicyclopropyl-linoleic acid (DCP-LA) 500 nM, the human recombinant brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) 1 nM and the TrkB receptor antagonist cyclotraxin B 10 nM. The proliferation (by cell count), the migration (by scratch test and Boyden assay) as well as some markers of SCs differentiation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process (by qRT-PCR and western blot) were analyzed. Results Overall, we found that PKCε is constitutively expressed in SCs, where it is likely involved in the switch from the proliferative toward the differentiated state. Indeed, we demonstrated that PKCε activation regulates SCs proliferation, increases their migration, and the expression of some markers (e.g., glycoprotein P0 and the transcription factor Krox20) of SCs differentiation. Through an autocrine mechanism, BDNF activates TrkB receptor, and controls SCs proliferation via PKCε. Importantly, PKCε activation likely promoted a partial EMT process in SCs. Discussion PKCε mediates relevant actions in the neuronal and glial compartment of the PNS. In particular, we posit a novel function for PKCε in the transformation of SCs, assuming a role in the mechanisms controlling SCs' fate and plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Valerio Magnaghi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Weng HR, Taing K, Chen L, Penney A. EZH2 Methyltransferase Regulates Neuroinflammation and Neuropathic Pain. Cells 2023; 12:1058. [PMID: 37048131 PMCID: PMC10093242 DOI: 10.3390/cells12071058] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies by us and others have shown that enhancer of zeste homolog-2 (EZH2), a histone methyltransferase, in glial cells regulates the genesis of neuropathic pain by modulating the production of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. In this review, we summarize recent advances in this research area. EZH2 is a subunit of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which primarily serves as a histone methyltransferase to catalyze methylation of histone 3 on lysine 27 (H3K27), ultimately resulting in transcriptional repression. Animals with neuropathic pain exhibit increased EZH2 activity and neuroinflammation of the injured nerve, spinal cord, and anterior cingulate cortex. Inhibition of EZH2 with DZNep or GSK-126 ameliorates neuroinflammation and neuropathic pain. EZH2 protein expression increases upon activation of Toll-like receptor 4 and calcitonin gene-related peptide receptors, downregulation of miR-124-3p and miR-378 microRNAs, or upregulation of Lncenc1 and MALAT1 long noncoding RNAs. Genes suppressed by EZH2 include suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like-2 factor (NrF2), miR-29b-3p, miR-146a-5p, and brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor 1 (BAI1). Pro-inflammatory mediators facilitate neuronal activation along pain-signaling pathways by sensitizing nociceptors in the periphery, as well as enhancing excitatory synaptic activities and suppressing inhibitory synaptic activities in the CNS. These studies collectively reveal that EZH2 is implicated in signaling pathways known to be key players in the process of neuroinflammation and genesis of neuropathic pain. Therefore, targeting the EZH2 signaling pathway may open a new avenue to mitigate neuroinflammation and neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Rong Weng
- Department of Basic Sciences, California Northstate University College of Medicine, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA
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Magnaghi V, Bonalume V. Axonal tuning by GABA A receptor unveils novel tricks from an old dog. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:533-534. [DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Tu Y, Muley MM, Beggs S, Salter MW. Microglia-independent peripheral neuropathic pain in male and female mice. Pain 2022; 163:e1129-e1144. [PMID: 35384869 PMCID: PMC9578531 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The dominant view in the field of pain is that peripheral neuropathic pain is driven by microglia in the somatosensory processing region of the spinal dorsal horn. Here, to the contrary, we discovered a form of neuropathic pain that is independent of microglia. Mice in which the nucleus pulposus (NP) of the intervertebral disc was apposed to the sciatic nerve developed a constellation of neuropathic pain behaviours: hypersensitivity to mechanical, cold, and heat stimuli. However, NP application caused no activation of spinal microglia nor was pain hypersensitivity reversed by microglial inhibition. Rather, NP-induced pain hypersensitivity was dependent on cells within the NP which recruited macrophages to the adjacent nerve. Eliminating macrophages systemically or locally prevented NP-induced pain hypersensitivity. Pain hypersensitivity was also prevented by genetically disrupting the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor selectively in macrophages. Moreover, the behavioural phenotypes as well as the molecular mechanisms of NP-induced pain hypersensitivity were not different between males and females. Our findings reveal a previously unappreciated mechanism for by which a discrete peripheral nerve lesion may produce pain hypersensitivity, which may help to explain the limited success of microglial inhibitors on neuropathic pain in human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- YuShan Tu
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Milind M. Muley
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Simon Beggs
- Developmental Neurosciences, UCL GOSH Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael W. Salter
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University of Toronto Centre for the Study of Pain, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Liu Q, Ma Z, Cao Q, Zhao H, Guo Y, Liu T, Li J. Perineural invasion-associated biomarkers for tumor development. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113691. [PMID: 36095958 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Perineural invasion (PNI) is the process of neoplastic invasion of peripheral nerves and is considered to be the fifth mode of cancer metastasis. PNI has been detected in head and neck tumors and pancreatic, prostate, bile duct, gastric, and colorectal cancers. It leads to poor prognostic outcomes and high local recurrence rates. Despite the increasing number of studies on PNI, targeted therapeutic modalities have not been proposed. The identification of PNI-related biomarkers would facilitate the non-invasive and early diagnosis of cancers, the establishment of prognostic panels, and the development of targeted therapeutic approaches. In this review, we compile information on the molecular mediators involved in PNI-associated cancers. The expression and prognostic significance of molecular mediators and their receptors in PNI-associated cancers are analyzed, and the possible mechanisms of action of these mediators in PNI are explored, as well as the association of cells in the microenvironment where PNI occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Zhiming Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Qian Cao
- Department of Education, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Hongyu Zhao
- Gastroenterology and Center of Digestive Endoscopy, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yu Guo
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Tongjun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Jiannan Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China.
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Cáceres ARR, Campo Verde Arboccó F, Cardone DA, Sanhueza MDLÁ, Casais M, Vega Orozco AS, Laconi MR. Superior mesenteric ganglion neural modulation of ovarian angiogenesis, apoptosis and proliferation by the neuroactive steroid allopregnanolone. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13056. [PMID: 34739183 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Allopregnanolone (ALLO), a potent neuroactive steroid, is synthesized and active in the peripheral nervous system. Previous studies have shown that ALLO participates in the central regulation of reproduction with effects on ovarian physiology, although there is little evidence for its ability to modulate peripheral tissues. The present study aimed to determine whether ALLO, administered to an ex vivo system that comprises the superior mesenteric ganglion (SMG), the ovarian nervous plexus (ONP) and the ovary (O), or to the denervated ovary (DO), was able to modify ovarian apoptosis, proliferation and angiogenesis. For this purpose, the SMG-ONP-O system and DO were incubated during 120 min at 37°C, in the presence of two ALLO doses (0.06 µm and 6 µm). The intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of apoptosis were analyzed. Incubation of the SMG-ONP-O system with ALLO 0.06 µm led to an increase in the BAX/BCL-2 ratio and a reduction of FAS-L mRNA levels. ALLO 6 µm induced a decrease of FAS-L levels. Incubation of DO with ALLO 0.06 µm reduced FAS-L, whereas ALLO 6 µm significantly increased it. Cyclin D1 mRNA was measured to evaluate proliferation. Treatment with ALLO 6 µm increased proliferation in both SMG-ONP-O and DO. ALLO 0.06 µm produced an increase of Cyclin D1 in DO only. Administration of either ALLO dose led to a higher ovarian expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in the SMG-ONP-O system, but a lower one in the DO system. ALLO 6 µm induced ovarian sensitization to GABA by increasing GABAA receptor expression. In conclusion, ALLO participates in the peripheral neural modulation of ovarian physiology. It can also interact directly with the ovarian tissue, modulating key mechanisms involved in normal and pathological processes in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Rosario Ramona Cáceres
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Fiorella Campo Verde Arboccó
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Daniela Alejandra Cardone
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - María de Los Ángeles Sanhueza
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Marilina Casais
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción (LABIR), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Adriana Soledad Vega Orozco
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción (LABIR), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, San Luis, Argentina
| | - Myriam Raquel Laconi
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología Ovárica, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU - CONICET Mendoza), Mendoza, Argentina
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina
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Bonalume V, Caffino L, Castelnovo LF, Faroni A, Liu S, Hu J, Milanese M, Bonanno G, Sohns K, Hoffmann T, De Col R, Schmelz M, Fumagalli F, Magnaghi V, Carr R. Axonal GABA A stabilizes excitability in unmyelinated sensory axons secondary to NKCC1 activity. J Physiol 2021; 599:4065-4084. [PMID: 34174096 DOI: 10.1113/jp279664] [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: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS GABA depolarized sural nerve axons and increased the electrical excitability of C-fibres via GABAA receptor. Axonal excitability responses to GABA increased monotonically with the rate of action potential firing. Action potential activity in unmyelinated C-fibres is coupled to Na-K-Cl cotransporter type 1 (NKCC1) loading of axonal chloride. Activation of axonal GABAA receptor stabilized C-fibre excitability during prolonged low frequency (2.5 Hz) firing. NKCC1 maintains intra-axonal chloride to provide feed-forward stabilization of C-fibre excitability and thus support sustained firing. ABSTRACT GABAA receptor (GABAA R)-mediated depolarization of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) axonal projections in the spinal dorsal horn is implicated in pre-synaptic inhibition. Inhibition, in this case, is predicated on an elevated intra-axonal chloride concentration and a depolarizing GABA response. In the present study, we report that the peripheral axons of DRG neurons are also depolarized by GABA and this results in an increase in the electrical excitability of unmyelinated C-fibre axons. GABAA R agonists increased axonal excitability, whereas GABA excitability responses were blocked by GABAA R antagonists and were absent in mice lacking the GABAA R β3 subunit selectively in DRG neurons (AdvillinCre or snsCre ). Under control conditions, excitability responses to GABA became larger at higher rates of electrical stimulation (0.5-2.5 Hz). However, during Na-K-Cl cotransporter type 1 (NKCC1) blockade, the electrical stimulation rate did not affect GABA response size, suggesting that NKCC1 regulation of axonal chloride is coupled to action potential firing. To examine this, activity-dependent conduction velocity slowing (activity-dependent slowing; ADS) was used to quantify C-fibre excitability loss during a 2.5 Hz challenge. ADS was reduced by GABAA R agonists and exacerbated by either GABAA R antagonists, β3 deletion or NKCC1 blockade. This illustrates that activation of GABAA R stabilizes C-fibre excitability during sustained firing. We posit that NKCC1 acts in a feed-forward manner to maintain an elevated intra-axonal chloride in C-fibres during ongoing firing. The resulting chloride gradient can be utilized by GABAA R to stabilize axonal excitability. The data imply that therapeutic strategies targeting axonal chloride regulation at peripheral loci of pain and itch may curtail aberrant firing in C-fibres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Bonalume
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Caffino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca F Castelnovo
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas at Austin, Port Aransas, TX, USA
| | - Alessandro Faroni
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sheng Liu
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jing Hu
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marco Milanese
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Giambattista Bonanno
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFAR), Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
- Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Genova, Italy
| | - Kyra Sohns
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tal Hoffmann
- Institute for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Roberto De Col
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Fabio Fumagalli
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Valerio Magnaghi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Richard Carr
- Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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11
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Castelnovo LF, Thomas P. Membrane progesterone receptor α (mPRα/PAQR7) promotes migration, proliferation and BDNF release in human Schwann cell-like differentiated adipose stem cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 531:111298. [PMID: 33930460 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) were recently found to be present and active in Schwann cells, where they have a potentially pro-regenerative activity. In this study, we investigated the role of mPRs in human adipose stem cells (ASC) differentiated into Schwann cell-like cells (SCL-ASC), which represent a promising alternative to Schwann cells for peripheral nerve regeneration. Our findings show that mPRs are present both in undifferentiated and differentiated ASC, and that the differentiation protocol upregulates mPR expression. Activation of mPRα promoted cell migration and differentiation in SCL-ASC, alongside with changes in cell morphology and mPRα localization. Moreover, it increased the expression and release of BDNF, a neurotrophin with pro-regenerative activity. Further analysis showed that Src and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways are involved in mPRα activity in SCL-ASC. These findings suggest that mPRα could play a pro-regenerative role in SCL-ASC and may be a promising target for the promotion of peripheral nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca F Castelnovo
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channel View Drive, Port Aransas (TX), 78373, United States.
| | - Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, 750 Channel View Drive, Port Aransas (TX), 78373, United States
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She B, Wu H, Xie Q, Zhang M, Zhou N, Pei D, Tu Z. The effects of methylated flavonoids on depression-like activity and pro-inflammatory cytokine thresholds in mice induced by repeated finasteride administration. EUR J INFLAMM 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/20587392211047646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of naringenin (NGN) and its methylated derivatives (50 or 100 mg kg−1) on finasteride-caused depression-like performance in mice to identify the effects on behavior and biomarkers of inflammation in the management of depression. Depression-like behavior was induced by repeated dose of finasteride (100 mg kg−1, subcutaneously) in mice. The effects of the naringenin (50 or 100 mg kg−1) or its methylated derivatives (Ngn-M; 50 or 100 mg kg−1 or Ngn-DM; 50 or 100 mg kg−1) and duloxetine (DXT, 10 mg kg−1) were evaluated for the immobility time in tail suspension and forced swimming tests following finasteride pre-treatment. The levels of brain pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and TNF-α were also measured by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay to further evaluate the impact of naringenin and its methylated derivatives on inflammation. Pre-treatment with finasteride substantially increased both the immobility time spent in tail suspension and forced swimming tests and brain levels of IL-1β and TNF–α in mice. Doluxetine (DLX) was given at a dose of 10 mg kg−1, and Naringenin or its methylated derivatives were given at doses of 50 and 100 mg kg−1 orally. It reduced immobility time in both tests, restored the preference to sucrose solution, and normalized cytokine levels (p < 0.01) in mice. Similar effects were observed with DTX (10 mg kg−1) as positive control. The increased brain levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) or nitrite were considerably (p < 0.05) decreased while substantially (p < 0.05) increased glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) levels after finasteride pre-treatment relative to vehicle-control by naringenin or its methylated derivatives (50 or 100 mg kg−1). These findings demonstrated the potential for methylated flavonoids as safe and effective anti-depressive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin She
- Department of Psychiatry, Gong’an County People’s Hospital, Gong’an County, Jingzhou, China
| | - Huajin Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, Gong’an County People’s Hospital, Gong’an County, Jingzhou, China
| | - Qin Xie
- Department of Psychiatry, Gong’an County People’s Hospital, Gong’an County, Jingzhou, China
| | - Mingjuan Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, Gong’an County People’s Hospital, Gong’an County, Jingzhou, China
| | - Nan Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, Gong’an County People’s Hospital, Gong’an County, Jingzhou, China
| | - Deyu Pei
- Department of Psychiatry, Gong’an County People’s Hospital, Gong’an County, Jingzhou, China
| | - Zheming Tu
- Jingzhou Mental Health Center, Jingzhou, China
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Physiopathological Role of Neuroactive Steroids in the Peripheral Nervous System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239000. [PMID: 33256238 PMCID: PMC7731236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy (PN) refers to many conditions involving damage to the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Usually, PN causes weakness, numbness and pain and is the result of traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes, or exposure to chemicals. Despite the high prevalence of PN, available treatments are still unsatisfactory. Neuroactive steroids (i.e., steroid hormones synthesized by peripheral glands as well as steroids directly synthesized in the nervous system) represent important physiological regulators of PNS functionality. Data obtained so far and here discussed, indeed show that in several experimental models of PN the levels of neuroactive steroids are affected by the pathology and that treatment with these molecules is able to exert protective effects on several PN features, including neuropathic pain. Of note, the observations that neuroactive steroid levels are sexually dimorphic not only in physiological status but also in PN, associated with the finding that PN show sex dimorphic manifestations, may suggest the possibility of a sex specific therapy based on neuroactive steroids.
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