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Wang Z, Zhou W, Zhang Z, Zhang L, Li M. Metformin alleviates spinal cord injury by inhibiting nerve cell ferroptosis through upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 expression. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2041-2049. [PMID: 38227534 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202409000-00037/figure1/v/2024-01-16T170235Z/r/image-tiff Previous studies have reported upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 in different central nervous system injury models. Heme oxygenase-1 plays a critical anti-inflammatory role and is essential for regulating cellular redox homeostasis. Metformin is a classic drug used to treat type 2 diabetes that can inhibit ferroptosis. Previous studies have shown that, when used to treat cardiovascular and digestive system diseases, metformin can also upregulate heme oxygenase-1 expression. Therefore, we hypothesized that heme oxygenase-1 plays a significant role in mediating the beneficial effects of metformin on neuronal ferroptosis after spinal cord injury. To test this, we first performed a bioinformatics analysis based on the GEO database and found that heme oxygenase-1 was upregulated in the lesion of rats with spinal cord injury. Next, we confirmed this finding in a rat model of T9 spinal cord compression injury that exhibited spinal cord nerve cell ferroptosis. Continuous intraperitoneal injection of metformin for 14 days was found to both upregulate heme oxygenase-1 expression and reduce neuronal ferroptosis in rats with spinal cord injury. Subsequently, we used a lentivirus vector to knock down heme oxygenase-1 expression in the spinal cord, and found that this significantly reduced the effect of metformin on ferroptosis after spinal cord injury. Taken together, these findings suggest that metformin inhibits neuronal ferroptosis after spinal cord injury, and that this effect is partially dependent on upregulation of heme oxygenase-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wu Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Zhixiong Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Lulu Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Nanchang People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Meihua Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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Xing C, Liu S, Wang L, Ma H, Zhou M, Zhong H, Zhu S, Wu Q, Ning G. Metformin enhances endogenous neural stem cells proliferation, neuronal differentiation, and inhibits ferroptosis through activating AMPK pathway after spinal cord injury. J Transl Med 2024; 22:723. [PMID: 39103875 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inadequate nerve regeneration and an inhibitory local microenvironment are major obstacles to the repair of spinal cord injury (SCI). The activation and differentiation fate regulation of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) represent one of the most promising repair approaches. Metformin has been extensively studied for its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and autophagy-regulating properties in central nervous system diseases. However, the effects of metformin on endogenous NSCs remains to be elucidated. METHODS The proliferation and differentiation abilities of NSCs were evaluated using CCK-8 assay, EdU/Ki67 staining and immunofluorescence staining. Changes in the expression of key proteins related to ferroptosis in NSCs were detected using Western Blot and immunofluorescence staining. The levels of reactive oxygen species, glutathione and tissue iron were measured using corresponding assay kits. Changes in mitochondrial morphology and membrane potential were observed using transmission electron microscopy and JC-1 fluorescence probe. Locomotor function recovery after SCI in rats was assessed through BBB score, LSS score, CatWalk gait analysis, and electrophysiological testing. The expression of the AMPK pathway was examined using Western Blot. RESULTS Metformin promoted the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of NSCs both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, a ferroptosis model of NSCs using erastin treatment was established in vitro, and metformin treatment could reverse the changes in the expression of key ferroptosis-related proteins, increase glutathione synthesis, reduce reactive oxygen species production and improve mitochondrial membrane potential and morphology. Moreover, metformin administration improved locomotor function recovery and histological outcomes following SCI in rats. Notably, all the above beneficial effects of metformin were completely abolished upon addition of compound C, a specific inhibitor of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). CONCLUSION Metformin, driven by canonical AMPK-dependent regulation, promotes proliferation and neuronal differentiation of endogenous NSCs while inhibiting ferroptosis, thereby facilitating recovery of locomotor function following SCI. Our study further elucidates the protective mechanism of metformin in SCI, providing new mechanistic insights for its candidacy as a therapeutic agent for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Xing
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Song Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Liyue Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongpeng Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Mi Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao Zhong
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Shibo Zhu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiang Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China
| | - Guangzhi Ning
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.
- International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord lnjury, Tianjin, China.
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin, China.
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Islam R, Noman H, Azimi A, Siu R, Chinchalongporn V, Schuurmans C, Morshead CM. Primitive and Definitive Neural Precursor Cells Are Present in Human Cerebral Organoids. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6549. [PMID: 38928255 PMCID: PMC11203442 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126549] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Activation of neural stem cells (NSCs) correlates with improved functional outcomes in mouse models of injury. In the murine brain, NSCs have been extensively characterized and comprise (1) primitive NSCs (pNSCs) and (2) definitive NSCs (dNSCs). pNSCs are the earliest cells in the NSC lineage giving rise to dNSCs in the embryonic and adult mouse brain. pNSCs are quiescent under baseline conditions and can be activated upon injury. Herein, we asked whether human pNSCs and dNSCs can be isolated during the maturation of human cerebral organoids (COs) and activated by drugs known to regulate mouse NSC behavior. We demonstrate that self-renewing, multipotent pNSC and dNSC populations are present in human COs and express genes previously characterized in mouse NSCs. The drug NWL283, an inhibitor of apoptosis, reduced cell death in COs but did not improve NSC survival. Metformin, a drug used to treat type II diabetes that is known to promote NSC activation in mice, was found to expand human NSC pools. Together, these findings are the first to identify and characterize human pNSCs, advancing our understanding of the human NSC lineage and highlighting drugs that enhance their activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehnuma Islam
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Humna Noman
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Ashkan Azimi
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | - Ricky Siu
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
| | | | - Carol Schuurmans
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Cindi M. Morshead
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, 149 College Street, Toronto, ON M5T 1P5, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
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Parrilla GE, Gupta V, Wall RV, Salkar A, Basavarajappa D, Mirzaei M, Chitranshi N, Graham SL, You Y. The role of myelin in neurodegeneration: implications for drug targets and neuroprotection strategies. Rev Neurosci 2024; 35:271-292. [PMID: 37983528 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2023-0081] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Myelination of axons in the central nervous system offers numerous advantages, including decreased energy expenditure for signal transmission and enhanced signal speed. The myelin sheaths surrounding an axon consist of a multi-layered membrane that is formed by oligodendrocytes, while specific glycoproteins and lipids play various roles in this formation process. As beneficial as myelin can be, its dysregulation and degeneration can prove detrimental. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and changes in cellular metabolism and the extracellular matrix can lead to demyelination of these axons. These factors are hallmark characteristics of certain demyelinating diseases including multiple sclerosis. The effects of demyelination are also implicated in primary degeneration in diseases such as glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease, as well as in processes of secondary degeneration. This reveals a relationship between myelin and secondary processes of neurodegeneration, including resultant degeneration following traumatic injury and transsynaptic degeneration. The role of myelin in primary and secondary degeneration is also of interest in the exploration of strategies and targets for remyelination, including the use of anti-inflammatory molecules or nanoparticles to deliver drugs. Although the use of these methods in animal models of diseases have shown to be effective in promoting remyelination, very few clinical trials in patients have met primary end points. This may be due to shortcomings or considerations that are not met while designing a clinical trial that targets remyelination. Potential solutions include diversifying disease targets and requiring concomitant interventions to promote rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella E Parrilla
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Roshana Vander Wall
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Akanksha Salkar
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Devaraj Basavarajappa
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Mehdi Mirzaei
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Nitin Chitranshi
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Stuart L Graham
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
- Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie St, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Yuyi You
- Faculty of Human, Health, and Medical Science, Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
- Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, 8 Macquarie St, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
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Sadek MA, Rabie MA, El Sayed NS, Sayed HM, Kandil EA. Neuroprotective effect of curcumin against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis-induced cognitive and physical impairments in mice: an insight into the role of the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway. Inflammopharmacology 2024; 32:1499-1518. [PMID: 38112964 PMCID: PMC11006778 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01399-3] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an incurable chronic neurodegenerative disease where autoimmunity, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation collaboration predispose myelin sheath destruction. Interestingly, curcumin, a natural polyphenol, showed a neuroprotective effect in numerous neurodegenerative diseases, including MS. Nevertheless, the influence of curcumin against MS-induced cognitive impairment is still vague. Hence, we induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice using spinal cord homogenate (SCH) and complete Freund's adjuvant, which eventually mimic MS. This study aimed not only to evaluate curcumin efficacy against EAE-induced cognitive and motor dysfunction, but also to explore a novel mechanism of action, by which curcumin exerts its beneficial effects in MS. Curcumin (200 mg/kg/day) efficacy was evaluated by behavioral tests, histopathological examination, and biochemical tests. Concisely, curcumin amended EAE-induced cognitive and motor impairments, as demonstrated by the behavioral tests and histopathological examination of the hippocampus. Interestingly, curcumin activated the adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase/silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (AMPK/SIRT1) axis, which triggered cyclic AMP response element-binding protein/brain-derived neurotrophic factor/myelin basic protein (CREB/BDNF/MBP) pathway, hindering demyelination of the corpus callosum. Furthermore, AMPK/SIRT1 activation augmented nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a powerful antioxidant, amending EAE-induced oxidative stress. Additionally, curcumin abolished EAE-induced neuroinflammation by inhibiting Janus kinase 2 /signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) axis, by various pathways, including AMPK/SIRT1 activation. JAK2/STAT3 inhibition halts inflammatory cytokines synthesis. In conclusion, curcumin's neuroprotective effect in EAE is controlled, at least in part, by AMPK/SIRT1 activation, which ultimately minimizes EAE-induced neuronal demyelination, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Sadek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mostafa A Rabie
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nesrine S El Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Helmy M Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Esraa A Kandil
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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De Keersmaecker AV, Van Doninck E, Popescu V, Willem L, Cambron M, Laureys G, D’ Haeseleer M, Bjerke M, Roelant E, Lemmerling M, D’hooghe MB, Derdelinckx J, Reynders T, Willekens B. A metformin add-on clinical study in multiple sclerosis to evaluate brain remyelination and neurodegeneration (MACSiMiSE-BRAIN): study protocol for a multi-center randomized placebo controlled clinical trial. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362629. [PMID: 38680485 PMCID: PMC11046490 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite advances in immunomodulatory treatments of multiple sclerosis (MS), patients with non-active progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) continue to face a significant unmet need. Demyelination, smoldering inflammation and neurodegeneration are important drivers of disability progression that are insufficiently targeted by current treatment approaches. Promising preclinical data support repurposing of metformin for treatment of PMS. The objective of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether metformin, as add-on treatment, is superior to placebo in delaying disease progression in patients with non-active PMS. Methods and analysis MACSiMiSE-BRAIN is a multi-center two-arm, 1:1 randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, conducted at five sites in Belgium. Enrollment of 120 patients with non-active PMS is planned. Each participant will undergo a screening visit with assessment of baseline magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), clinical tests, questionnaires, and a safety laboratory assessment. Following randomization, participants will be assigned to either the treatment (metformin) or placebo group. Subsequently, they will undergo a 96-week follow-up period. The primary outcome is change in walking speed, as measured by the Timed 25-Foot Walk Test, from baseline to 96 weeks. Secondary outcome measures include change in neurological disability (Expanded Disability Status Score), information processing speed (Symbol Digit Modalities Test) and hand function (9-Hole Peg test). Annual brain MRI will be performed to assess evolution in brain volumetry and diffusion metrics. As patients may not progress in all domains, a composite outcome, the Overall Disability Response Score will be additionally evaluated as an exploratory outcome. Other exploratory outcomes will consist of paramagnetic rim lesions, the 2-minute walking test and health economic analyses as well as both patient- and caregiver-reported outcomes like the EQ-5D-5L, the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale and the Caregiver Strain Index. Ethics and dissemination Clinical trial authorization from regulatory agencies [Ethical Committee and Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP)] was obtained after submission to the centralized European Clinical Trial Information System. The results of this clinical trial will be disseminated at scientific conferences, in peer-reviewed publications, to patient associations and the general public. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05893225, EUCT number: 2023-503190-38-00.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Victoria De Keersmaecker
- Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Translational Neurosciences Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Eline Van Doninck
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Center of Health Economic Research and Modelling Infectious Diseases, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Veronica Popescu
- Immunology and Infection, University of Hasselt, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- Biomedical Research Institute, University of Hasselt, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Noorderhart Maria Hospital, Pelt, Belgium
- University Multiple Sclerosis Centre, University of Hasselt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Lander Willem
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Center of Health Economic Research and Modelling Infectious Diseases, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Melissa Cambron
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Algemeen Ziekenhuis Sint Jan, Bruges, Belgium
| | - Guy Laureys
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Miguel D’ Haeseleer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, National Multiple Sclerosis Center, Melsbroek, Belgium
- Department Neuroprotection and Neuromodulation, Center for Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Bjerke
- Department Neuroprotection and Neuromodulation, Center for Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Neurochemistry Laboratory, Department of Clinical Biology, Brussels, University Hospital Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Ella Roelant
- Clinical Trial Center, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Marc Lemmerling
- Department of Radiology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Marie Beatrice D’hooghe
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, National Multiple Sclerosis Center, Melsbroek, Belgium
- Department Neuroprotection and Neuromodulation, Center for Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Judith Derdelinckx
- Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tatjana Reynders
- Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Translational Neurosciences Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Barbara Willekens
- Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
- Translational Neurosciences Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
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Al-kuraishy HM, Jabir MS, Al-Gareeb AI, Saad HM, Batiha GES, Klionsky DJ. The beneficial role of autophagy in multiple sclerosis: Yes or No? Autophagy 2024; 20:259-274. [PMID: 37712858 PMCID: PMC10813579 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2023.2259281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) due to an increase of abnormal peripherally auto-reactive T lymphocytes which elicit autoimmunity. The main pathophysiology of MS is myelin sheath damage by immune cells and a defect in the generation of myelin by oligodendrocytes. Macroautophagy/autophagy is a critical degradation process that eliminates dysfunctional or superfluous cellular components. Autophagy has the property of a double-edged sword in MS in that it may have both beneficial and detrimental effects on MS neuropathology. Therefore, this review illustrates the protective and harmful effects of autophagy with regard to this disease. Autophagy prevents the progression of MS by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory disorders. In contrast, over-activated autophagy is associated with the progression of MS neuropathology and in this case the use of autophagy inhibitors may alleviate the pathogenesis of MS. Furthermore, autophagy provokes the activation of different immune and supporting cells that play an intricate role in the pathogenesis of MS. Autophagy functions in the modulation of MS neuropathology by regulating cell proliferation related to demyelination and remyelination. Autophagy enhances remyelination by increasing the activity of oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. However, autophagy induces demyelination by activating microglia and T cells. In conclusion, specific autophagic activators of oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes, and specific autophagic inhibitors of dendritic cells (DCs), microglia and T cells induce protective effects against the pathogenesis of MS.Abbreviations: ALS: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; APCs: antigen-presenting cells; BBB: blood-brain barrier; CSF: cerebrospinal fluid; CNS: central nervous system; DCs: dendritic cells; EAE: experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; LAP: LC3-associated phagocytosis; MS: multiple sclerosis; NCA: non-canonical autophagy; OCBs: oligoclonal bands; PBMCs: peripheral blood mononuclear cells; PD: Parkinson disease; ROS: reactive oxygen species; UPR: unfolded protein response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M. Al-kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Iraq, Baghdad
| | - Majid S. Jabir
- Department of Applied Science, University of Technology, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I. Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Iraq, Baghdad
| | - Hebatallah M. Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh University, Matrouh, Egypt
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, El Beheira, Egypt
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8
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Geng Y, Wang Z, Xu X, Sun X, Dong X, Luo Y, Sun X. Extensive therapeutic effects, underlying molecular mechanisms and disease treatment prediction of Metformin: a systematic review. Transl Res 2024; 263:73-92. [PMID: 37567440 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Metformin (Met), a first-line management for type 2 diabetes mellitus, has been expansively employed and studied with results indicating its therapeutic potential extending beyond glycemic control. Beyond its established role, this therapeutic drug demonstrates a broad spectrum of action encompassing over 60 disorders, encompassing metabolic conditions, inflammatory disorders, carcinomas, cardiovascular diseases, and cerebrovascular pathologies. There is clear evidence of Met's action targeting specific nodes in the molecular pathways of these diseases and, intriguingly, interactions with the intestinal microbiota and epigenetic processes have been explored. Furthermore, novel Met derivatives with structural modifications tailored to diverse diseases have been synthesized and assessed. This manuscript proffers a comprehensive thematic review of the diseases amenable to Met treatment, elucidates their molecular mechanisms, and employs informatics technology to prospect future therapeutic applications of Met. These data and insights gleaned considerably contribute to enriching our understanding and appreciation of Met's far-reaching clinical potential and therapeutic applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Geng
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, China
| | - Xiaoyu Xu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, China
| | - Xiao Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, China
| | - Yun Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, China.
| | - Xiaobo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, China.
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Gilbert EAB, Livingston J, Flores EG, Khan M, Kandavel H, Morshead CM. Metformin treatment reduces inflammation, dysmyelination and disease severity in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Brain Res 2024; 1822:148648. [PMID: 37890574 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148648] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, death or damage of oligodendrocytes, and axonal degeneration. Current MS treatments are non-curative, associated with undesired side-effects, and expensive, highlighting the need for expanded therapeutic options for patients. There is great interest in developing interventions using drugs or therapeutics to reduce symptom onset and protect pre-existing myelin. Metformin is a well-tolerated drug used to treat Type 2 diabetes that has pleiotropic effects in the central nervous system (CNS), including reducing inflammation, enhancing oligodendrogenesis, increasing the survival/proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs), and increasing myelination. Here, we investigated whether metformin administration could improve functional outcomes, modulate oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), and reduce inflammation in a well-established mouse model of MS- experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Male and female mice received metformin treatment at the time of EAE induction ("acute") or upon presentation of disease symptoms ("delayed"). We found that acute metformin treatment improved functional outcomes, concomitant with reduced microglia numbers and decreased dysmyelination. Conversely, delayed metformin treatment did not improve functional outcomes. Our findings reveal that metformin administration can improve EAE outcomes when administered before symptom onset in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A B Gilbert
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Jessica Livingston
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Emilio Garcia Flores
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Monoleena Khan
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Harini Kandavel
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada
| | - Cindi M Morshead
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada; Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S3E1, Canada; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S1A8, Canada.
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10
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Kaffe D, Kaplanis SI, Karagogeos D. The Roles of Caloric Restriction Mimetics in Central Nervous System Demyelination and Remyelination. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:9526-9548. [PMID: 38132442 PMCID: PMC10742427 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45120596] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The dysfunction of myelinating glial cells, the oligodendrocytes, within the central nervous system (CNS) can result in the disruption of myelin, the lipid-rich multi-layered membrane structure that surrounds most vertebrate axons. This leads to axonal degeneration and motor/cognitive impairments. In response to demyelination in the CNS, the formation of new myelin sheaths occurs through the homeostatic process of remyelination, facilitated by the differentiation of newly formed oligodendrocytes. Apart from oligodendrocytes, the two other main glial cell types of the CNS, microglia and astrocytes, play a pivotal role in remyelination. Following a demyelination insult, microglia can phagocytose myelin debris, thus permitting remyelination, while the developing neuroinflammation in the demyelinated region triggers the activation of astrocytes. Modulating the profile of glial cells can enhance the likelihood of successful remyelination. In this context, recent studies have implicated autophagy as a pivotal pathway in glial cells, playing a significant role in both their maturation and the maintenance of myelin. In this Review, we examine the role of substances capable of modulating the autophagic machinery within the myelinating glial cells of the CNS. Such substances, called caloric restriction mimetics, have been shown to decelerate the aging process by mitigating age-related ailments, with their mechanisms of action intricately linked to the induction of autophagic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despoina Kaffe
- Department of Biology, University of Crete, Vassilika Vouton, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Stefanos Ioannis Kaplanis
- Department of Basic Science, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Vassilika Vouton, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Vassilika Vouton, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Domna Karagogeos
- Department of Basic Science, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Vassilika Vouton, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Vassilika Vouton, 70013 Heraklion, Greece
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11
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Alruwaili M, Al-kuraishy HM, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, ALRashdi BM, Elhussieny O, Saad HM, Batiha GES. Pathogenic Role of Fibrinogen in the Neuropathology of Multiple Sclerosis: A Tale of Sorrows and Fears. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:3255-3269. [PMID: 37442896 PMCID: PMC10514123 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-03981-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune demyelinating neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) due to injury of the myelin sheath by immune cells. The clotting factor fibrinogen is involved in the pathogenesis of MS by triggering microglia and the progress of neuroinflammation. Fibrinogen level is correlated with MS severity; consequently, inhibition of the fibrinogen cascade may reduce MS neuropathology. Thus, this review aimed to clarify the potential role of fibrinogen in the pathogenesis of MS and how targeting of fibrinogen affects MS neuropathology. Accumulation of fibrinogen in the CNS may occur independently or due to disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity in MS. Fibrinogen acts as transduction and increases microglia activation which induces the progression of inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal injury. Besides, brain fibrinogen impairs the remyelination process by inhibiting the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells. These findings proposed that fibrinogen is associated with MS neuropathology through interruption of BBB integrity, induction of neuroinflammation, and demyelination with inhibition of the remyelination process by suppressing oligodendrocytes. Therefore, targeting of fibrinogen and/or CD11b/CD18 receptors by metformin and statins might decrease MS neuropathology. In conclusion, inhibiting the expression of CD11b/CD18 receptors by metformin and statins may decrease the pro-inflammatory effect of fibrinogen on microglia which is involved in the progression of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubarak Alruwaili
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hayder M. Al-kuraishy
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicine, Medical Faculty, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, NSW 2770 Australia
- AFNP Med, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten-Herdecke, University of Witten-Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Barakat M. ALRashdi
- Biology Department, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka, 41412 Saudi Arabia
| | - Omnya Elhussieny
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh University, Marsa Matruh, 51744 Egypt
| | - Hebatallah M. Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh University, Marsa Matruh, 51744 Egypt
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511 Egypt
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12
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Drake SS, Mohammadnia A, Heale K, Groh AMR, Hua EML, Zaman A, Hintermayer MA, Zandee S, Gosselin D, Stratton JA, Sinclair DA, Fournier AE. Cellular rejuvenation protects neurons from inflammation mediated cell death. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.30.560301. [PMID: 37873446 PMCID: PMC10592844 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.30.560301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
In multiple sclerosis (MS), the invasion of the central nervous system by peripheral immune cells is followed by the activation of resident microglia and astrocytes. This cascade of events results in demyelination, which triggers neuronal damage and death. The molecular signals in neurons responsible for this damage are not yet fully characterized. In MS, retinal ganglion cell neurons (RGCs) of the central nervous system (CNS) undergo axonal injury and cell death. This phenomenon is mirrored in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of MS. To understand the molecular landscape, we isolated RGCs from mice subjected to the EAE protocol. RNA-sequencing and ATAC-sequencing analyses were performed. Pathway analysis of the RNA-sequencing data revealed that RGCs displayed a molecular signature, similar to aged neurons, showcasing features of senescence. Single-nucleus RNA-sequencing analysis of neurons from human MS patients revealed a comparable senescence-like phenotype., which was supported by immunostaining RGCs in EAE mice. These changes include alterations to the nuclear envelope, modifications in chromatin marks, and accumulation of DNA damage. Transduction of RGCs with an Oct4 - Sox2 - Klf4 transgene to convert neurons in the EAE model to a more youthful epigenetic and transcriptomic state enhanced the survival of RGCs. Collectively, this research uncovers a previously unidentified senescent-like phenotype in neurons under pathological inflammation and neurons from MS patients. The rejuvenation of this aged transcriptome improved visual acuity and neuronal survival in the EAE model supporting the idea that age rejuvenation therapies and senotherapeutic agents could offer a direct means of neuroprotection in autoimmune disorders.
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13
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Belousova O, Lopatina A, Kuzmina U, Melnikov M. The role of biogenic amines in the modulation of monocytes in autoimmune neuroinflammation. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 78:104920. [PMID: 37536214 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is inflammatory demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) with autoimmune mechanism of development. The study of the neuroimmune interactions is one of the most developing directions in the research of the pathogenesis of MS. The influence of biogenic amines on the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and MS was shown by the modulation of subsets of T-helper cells and B-cells, which plays a crucial role in the autoimmunity of the CNS. However, along with T- and B-cells the critical involvement of mononuclear phagocytes such as dendritic cells, macrophages, and monocytes in the development of neuroinflammation also was shown. It was demonstrated that the activation of microglial cells (resident macrophages of the CNS) could initiate the neuroinflammation in the EAE, suggesting their role at an early stage of the disease. In contrast, monocytes, which migrate from the periphery into the CNS through the blood-brain barrier, mediate the effector phase of the disease and cause neurological disability in EAE. In addition, the clinical efficacy of the therapy with depletion of the monocytes in EAE was shown, suggesting their crucial role in the autoimmunity of the CNS. Biogenic amines, such as epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin are direct mediators of the neuroimmune interaction and may affect the pathogenesis of EAE and MS by modulating the immune cell activity and cytokine production. The anti-inflammatory effect of targeting the biogenic amines receptors on the pathogenesis of EAE and MS by suppression of Th17- and Th1-cells, which are critical for the CNS autoimmunity, was shown. However, the latest data showed the potential ability of biogenic amines to affect the functions of the mononuclear phagocytes and their involvement in the modulation of neuroinflammation. This article reviews the literature data on the role of monocytes in the pathogenesis of EAE and MS. The data on the effect of targeting of biogenic amine receptors on the function of monocytes are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Belousova
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnology of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna Lopatina
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnology of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ulyana Kuzmina
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnology of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia; Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Immunology, Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics - Subdivision of the Ufa Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Science, Ufa, Russia
| | - Mikhail Melnikov
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnology of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia; Department of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Medical Genetics, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia; Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Research Center Institute of Immunology of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russia.
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14
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Jenkins BJ, Blagih J, Ponce-Garcia FM, Canavan M, Gudgeon N, Eastham S, Hill D, Hanlon MM, Ma EH, Bishop EL, Rees A, Cronin JG, Jury EC, Dimeloe SK, Veale DJ, Thornton CA, Vousden KH, Finlay DK, Fearon U, Jones GW, Sinclair LV, Vincent EE, Jones N. Canagliflozin impairs T cell effector function via metabolic suppression in autoimmunity. Cell Metab 2023; 35:1132-1146.e9. [PMID: 37230079 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Augmented T cell function leading to host damage in autoimmunity is supported by metabolic dysregulation, making targeting immunometabolism an attractive therapeutic avenue. Canagliflozin, a type 2 diabetes drug, is a sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor with known off-target effects on glutamate dehydrogenase and complex I. However, the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on human T cell function have not been extensively explored. Here, we show that canagliflozin-treated T cells are compromised in their ability to activate, proliferate, and initiate effector functions. Canagliflozin inhibits T cell receptor signaling, impacting on ERK and mTORC1 activity, concomitantly associated with reduced c-Myc. Compromised c-Myc levels were encapsulated by a failure to engage translational machinery resulting in impaired metabolic protein and solute carrier production among others. Importantly, canagliflozin-treated T cells derived from patients with autoimmune disorders impaired their effector function. Taken together, our work highlights a potential therapeutic avenue for repurposing canagliflozin as an intervention for T cell-mediated autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Jenkins
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Julianna Blagih
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; University of Montreal, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, 5414 Assomption Blvd, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada
| | - Fernando M Ponce-Garcia
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Mary Canavan
- Molecular Rheumatology, School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, 152-160 Pearce Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nancy Gudgeon
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Simon Eastham
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Biomedical Sciences Building, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - David Hill
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Biomedical Sciences Building, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Megan M Hanlon
- Molecular Rheumatology, School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, 152-160 Pearce Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eric H Ma
- Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA; Rheos Medicines, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Emma L Bishop
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - April Rees
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - James G Cronin
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Elizabeth C Jury
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah K Dimeloe
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Douglas J Veale
- EULAR Centre of Excellence, Centre for Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catherine A Thornton
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Karen H Vousden
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - David K Finlay
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, 152-160 Pearce Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ursula Fearon
- Molecular Rheumatology, School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, 152-160 Pearce Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gareth W Jones
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Biomedical Sciences Building, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Linda V Sinclair
- Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Emma E Vincent
- School of Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Bristol BS1 3NY, UK; Integrative Epidemiology Unit, School of Population Health Science, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Nicholas Jones
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK.
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15
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Dong Y, Qi Y, Jiang H, Mi T, Zhang Y, Peng C, Li W, Zhang Y, Zhou Y, Zang Y, Li J. The development and benefits of metformin in various diseases. Front Med 2023; 17:388-431. [PMID: 37402952 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-0998-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Metformin has been used for the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus for decades due to its safety, low cost, and outstanding hypoglycemic effect clinically. The mechanisms underlying these benefits are complex and still not fully understood. Inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory-chain complex I is the most described downstream mechanism of metformin, leading to reduced ATP production and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Meanwhile, many novel targets of metformin have been gradually discovered. In recent years, multiple pre-clinical and clinical studies are committed to extend the indications of metformin in addition to diabetes. Herein, we summarized the benefits of metformin in four types of diseases, including metabolic associated diseases, cancer, aging and age-related diseases, neurological disorders. We comprehensively discussed the pharmacokinetic properties and the mechanisms of action, treatment strategies, the clinical application, the potential risk of metformin in various diseases. This review provides a brief summary of the benefits and concerns of metformin, aiming to interest scientists to consider and explore the common and specific mechanisms and guiding for the further research. Although there have been countless studies of metformin, longitudinal research in each field is still much warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yingbei Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Haowen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Tian Mi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yunkai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chang Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wanchen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yongmei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
| | - Yi Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Open Studio for Druggability Research of Marine Natural Products, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266237, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
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16
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Sepasi T, Ghadiri T, Ebrahimi-Kalan A, Bani F, Talebi M, Rahbarghazi R, Khodakarimi S, Beyrampour-Basmenj H, Seidi K, Abbaspour-Ravasjani S, Sadeghi MR, Zarebkohan A, Gao H. CDX-modified chitosan nanoparticles remarkably reduce therapeutic dose of fingolimod in the EAE model of mice. Int J Pharm 2023; 636:122815. [PMID: 36907279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.122815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Fingolimod (Fin), an FDA-approved drug, is used to control relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). This therapeutic agent faces crucial drawbacks like poor bioavailability rate, risk of cardiotoxicity, potent immunosuppressive effects, and high cost. Here, we aimed to assess the therapeutic efficacy of nano-formulated Fin in a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Results showed the suitability of the present protocol in the synthesis of Fin-loaded CDX-modified chitosan (CS) nanoparticles (NPs) (Fin@CSCDX) with suitable physicochemical features. Confocal microscopy confirmed the appropriate accumulation of synthesized NPs within the brain parenchyma. Compared to the control EAE mice, INF-γ levels were significantly reduced in the group that received Fin@CSCDX (p < 0.05). Along with these data, Fin@CSCDX reduced the expression of TBX21, GATA3, FOXP3, and Rorc associated with the auto-reactivation of T cells (p < 0.05). Histological examination indicated a low-rate lymphocyte infiltration into the spinal cord parenchyma after the administration of Fin@CSCDX. Of note, HPLC data revealed that the concentration of nano-formulated Fin was about 15-fold less than Fin therapeutic doses (TD) with similar reparative effects. Neurological scores were similar in both groups that received nano-formulated fingolimod 1/15th of free Fin therapeutic amounts. Fluorescence imaging indicated that macrophages and especially microglia can efficiently uptake Fin@CSCDX NPs, leading to the regulation of pro-inflammatory responses. Taken together, current results indicated that CDX-modified CS NPs provide a suitable platform not only for the efficient reduction of Fin TD but also these NPs can target the brain immune cells during neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Sepasi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Ghadiri
- Department of Neuroscience and Cognitive, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abbas Ebrahimi-Kalan
- Department of Neuroscience and Cognitive, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Bani
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Talebi
- Stem Cells Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cells Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sina Khodakarimi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Neuroscience and Cognitive, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hanieh Beyrampour-Basmenj
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Khaled Seidi
- Polymer Research Laboratory, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad-Reza Sadeghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Zarebkohan
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Advanced Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Huile Gao
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China.
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17
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Efforts Towards Repurposing of Antioxidant Drugs and Active Compounds for Multiple Sclerosis Control. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:725-744. [PMID: 36385213 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03821-8] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) with complicated etiology that has not been clearly analyzed until nowadays. Apart from anti-inflammatory, immune modulatory and symptomatic treatments, which are the main tools towards MS control, antioxidant molecules may be of interest. Oxidative stress is a key condition implicated in the disease progression. Reactive species production is associated with immune cell activation in the brain as well as in the periphery, accounting for demyelinating and axonal disruptive processes. This review refers to research articles, of the last decade. It describes biological evaluation of antioxidant drugs, and molecules with pharmaceutical interest, which are not designed for MS treatment, however they seem to have potency against MS. Their antioxidant effect is accompanied, in most of the cases, by anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory and neuroprotective properties. Compounds with such characteristics are expected to be beneficial in the treatment of MS, alone or as complementary therapy, improving some clinical and mechanistic aspects of the disease. This review also summarizes some of the pathobiological characteristics of MS, as well as the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in the progression of neurodegeneration. It presents known drugs and bioactive compounds with antioxidant, and in many cases, pleiotropic activity that have been tested for their efficacy in MS progression or the experimentally induced MS. Antioxidants may offer reduction or prevention of the disease symptoms and progression. Thus, their results may, combined with already applied treatments, be beneficial for the development of new molecules or the repurposing of drugs and supplements that are used with other indication so far.
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Luo H, Guo H, Zhou Y, Fang R, Zhang W, Mei Z. Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury: Friend and Foe. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:2079-2096. [PMID: 36892020 PMCID: PMC10556361 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230308090351] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral ischemic injury, one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, triggers various central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and chronic ischemia-induced Alzheimer's disease (AD). Currently, targeted therapies are urgently needed to address neurological disorders caused by cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CI/RI), and the emergence of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) may be able to relieve the pressure. Neutrophils are precursors to brain injury following ischemic stroke and exert complicated functions. NETs extracellularly release reticular complexes of neutrophils, i.e., double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), histones, and granulins. Paradoxically, NETs play a dual role, friend and foe, under different conditions, for example, physiological circumstances, infection, neurodegeneration, and ischemia/reperfusion. Increasing evidence indicates that NETs exert anti-inflammatory effects by degrading cytokines and chemokines through protease at a relatively stable and moderate level under physiological conditions, while excessive amounts of NETs release (NETosis) irritated by CI/RI exacerbate the inflammatory response and aggravate thrombosis, disrupt the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and initiates sequential neuron injury and tissue damage. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the machinery of NETs formation and the role of an abnormal cascade of NETs in CI/RI, as well as other ischemia-induced neurological diseases. Herein, we highlight the potential of NETs as a therapeutic target against ischemic stroke that may inspire translational research and innovative clinical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyue Luo
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, China
| | - Hanjing Guo
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, China
| | - Rui Fang
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, China
| | - Wenli Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, China
| | - Zhigang Mei
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, 410208, China
- Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Medical College of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
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Functional Heterodimerization between the G Protein-Coupled Receptor GPR17 and the Chemokine Receptors 2 and 4: New Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010261. [PMID: 36613703 PMCID: PMC9820414 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
GPR17, a G protein-coupled receptor, is a pivotal regulator of myelination. Its endogenous ligands trigger receptor desensitization and downregulation allowing oligodendrocyte terminal maturation. In addition to its endogenous agonists, GPR17 could be promiscuously activated by pro-inflammatory oxysterols and chemokines released at demyelinating lesions. Herein, the chemokine receptors CXCR2 and CXCR4 were selected to perform both in silico modelling and in vitro experiments to establish their structural and functional interactions with GPR17. The relative propensity of GPR17 and CXCR2 or CXCR4 to form homo- and hetero-dimers was assessed by homology modelling and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and co-immunoprecipitation and immunoenzymatic assay. The interaction between chemokine receptors and GPR17 was investigated by determining receptor-mediated modulation of intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Our data show the GPR17 association with CXCR2 or CXCR4 and the negative regulation of these interactions by CXCR agonists or antagonists. Moreover, GPR17 and CXCR2 heterodimers can functionally influence each other. In contrast, CXCR4 can influence GPR17 functionality, but not vice versa. According to MD simulations, all the dimers reached conformational stability and negative formation energy, confirming the experimental observations. The cross-talk between these receptors could play a role in the development of the neuroinflammatory milieu associated with demyelinating events.
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Li F, Ke H, Wang S, Mao W, Fu C, Chen X, Fu Q, Qin X, Huang Y, Li B, Li S, Xing J, Wang M, Deng W. Leaky Gut Plays a Critical Role in the Pathophysiology of Autism in Mice by Activating the Lipopolysaccharide-Mediated Toll-Like Receptor 4–Myeloid Differentiation Factor 88–Nuclear Factor Kappa B Signaling Pathway. Neurosci Bull 2022:10.1007/s12264-022-00993-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00993-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractIncreased intestinal barrier permeability, leaky gut, has been reported in patients with autism. However, its contribution to the development of autism has not been determined. We selected dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) to disrupt and metformin to repair the intestinal barrier in BTBR T+tf/J autistic mice to test this hypothesis. DSS treatment resulted in a decreased affinity for social proximity; however, autistic behaviors in mice were improved after the administration of metformin. We found an increased affinity for social proximity/social memory and decreased repetitive and anxiety-related behaviors. The concentration of lipopolysaccharides in blood decreased after the administration of metformin. The expression levels of the key molecules in the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)–myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)–nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway and their downstream inflammatory cytokines in the cerebral cortex were both repressed. Thus, “leaky gut” could be a trigger for the development of autism via activation of the lipopolysaccharide-mediated TLR4–MyD88–NF-κB pathway.
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Sanchez-Álvarez NT, Bautista-Niño PK, Trejos-Suárez J, Serrano-Díaz NC. A model of metformin mitochondrial metabolism in metachromatic leukodystrophy: first description of human Schwann cells transfected with CRISPR-Cas9. Open Biol 2022; 12:210371. [PMID: 35857900 PMCID: PMC9256087 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Metachromatic leukodystrophy is a neurological lysosomal deposit disease that affects public health despite its low incidence in the population. Currently, few reports are available on pathophysiological events related to enzyme deficiencies and subsequent sulfatide accumulation. This research aims to examine the use of metformin as an alternative treatment to counteract these effects. This was evaluated in human Schwann cells (HSCs) transfected or non-transfected with CRISPR-Cas9, and later treated with sulfatides and metformin. This resulted in transfected HSCs showing a significant increase in cell reactive oxygen species (ROS) production when exposed to 100 µM sulfatides (p = 0.0007), compared to non-transfected HSCs. Sulfatides at concentrations of 10 to 100 µM affected mitochondrial bioenergetics in transfected HSCs. Moreover, these analyses showed that transfected cells showed a decrease in basal and maximal respiration rates after exposure to 100 µM sulfatide. However, maximal and normal mitochondrial respiratory capacity decreased in cells treated with both sulfatide and metformin. This study has provided valuable insights into bioenergetic and mitochondrial effects of sulfatides in HSCs for the first time. Treatment with metformin (500 µM) restored the metabolic activity of these cells and decreased ROS production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayibe Tatiana Sanchez-Álvarez
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Masira Institute for Biomedical Research, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia,Faculty of Health, Phd in Biomedical Sciences, Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia,Research Center Floridablanca, Colombian Cardiovascular Foundation, FL, Colombia
| | | | - Juanita Trejos-Suárez
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Masira Institute for Biomedical Research, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
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Metformin alleviates the calcification of aortic valve interstitial cells through activating the PI3K/AKT pathway in an AMPK dependent way. Mol Med 2021; 27:156. [PMID: 34895136 PMCID: PMC8666063 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-021-00416-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is the most prevalent valvular disease worldwide. However, no effective treatment could delay or prevent the progression of the disease due to the poor understanding of its pathological mechanism. Many studies showed that metformin exerted beneficial effects on multiple cardiovascular diseases by mediating multiple proteins such as AMPK, NF-κB, and AKT. This study aims to verify whether metformin can inhibit aortic calcification through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. METHODS We first analyzed four microarray datasets to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and signaling pathways related to CAVD. Then aortic valve samples were used to verify selected genes and pathways through immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blot (WB) assays. Aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs) were isolated from non-calcific aortic valves and then cultured with phosphate medium (PM) with or without metformin to verify whether metformin can inhibit the osteogenic differentiation and calcification of AVICs. Finally, we used inhibitors and siRNA targeting AMPK, NF-κB, and AKT to study the mechanism of metformin. RESULTS We screened 227 DEGs; NF-κB and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways were implicated in the pathological mechanism of CAVD. IHC and WB experiments showed decreased AMPK and AKT and increased Bax in calcific aortic valves. PM treatment significantly reduced AMPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways, promoted Bax/Bcl2 ratio, and induced AVICs calcification. Metformin treatment ameliorated AVICs calcification and apoptosis by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. AMPK activation and NF-κB inhibition could inhibit AVICs calcification induced by PM treatment; however, AMPK and AKT inhibition reversed the protective effect of metformin. CONCLUSIONS This study, for the first time, demonstrates that metformin can inhibit AVICs in vitro calcification by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway; this suggests that metformin may provide a potential target for the treatment of CAVD. And the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway emerges as an important regulatory axis in the pathological mechanism of CAVD.
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Li Y, Yang L, Wang Y, Deng Z, Xu S, Xie H, Zhang Y, Li J. Exploring metformin as a candidate drug for rosacea through network pharmacology and experimental validation. Pharmacol Res 2021; 174:105971. [PMID: 34763093 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory disease that affects the middle of the face. Due to the unclear pathogenesis, the effective treatment options for rosacea remain limited. In this study, weighted gene co-expression network analyses (WGCNA) identified three rosacea-related hub modules, which were involved in immune-, metabolic- and development- related signaling pathways. Next, the key genes from green and brown modules were submitted to CMap database for drug prediction and metformin was identified as a candidate drug for rosacea. Moreover, network pharmacology analysis identified pharmacological targets of metformin and demonstrated that metformin could help in treating rosacea partly by modulating inflammatory and angiogenesis signaling pathways. Finally, we verified the therapeutic role and mechanism of metformin on rosacea in vivo and vitro. We found that metformin treatment significantly improved rosacea-like skin lesions including immune cells infiltration, cytokines/chemokines expression and angiogenesis. Moreover, metformin suppressed LL37- and TNF-α-induced the ROS production and MAPK-NF-κB signal activation in keratinocytes cells. In conclusion, our findings identified and verified metformin as a novel therapeutic candidate for rosacea, and it alleviates the pathological symptoms, possibly by suppressing inflammatory responses, angiogenesis in rosacea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangfan Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China
| | - Yaling Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China
| | - Zhili Deng
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China
| | - San Xu
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China
| | - Hongfu Xie
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China
| | - Yiya Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China.
| | - Ji Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Hunan key laboratory of aging biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders,Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China; Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China.
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Jin S, Wang X, Xiang X, Wu Y, Hu J, Li Y, Lin Dong Y, Tan Y, Wu X. Inhibition of GPR17 with cangrelor improves cognitive impairment and synaptic deficits induced by Aβ 1-42 through Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB signaling pathway in mice. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 101:108335. [PMID: 34781121 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) in the brain is thought to be associated with cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, current methods to combat Aβ neurotoxicity are still lacking. G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17) has become a target for treating inflammation in brain diseases, but it is unclear whether it has a role in AD. Here, we investigated the effects of cangrelor, a GPR17 antagonist, on neurotoxicity and memory impairment induced by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of Aβ1-42 in mice. The behavior results showed that cangrelor (2.0 or 4.0 μg/mouse, i.c.v.) treatment reversed the deficits in memory and learning ability induced by Aβ1-42 in mice. Importantly, we demonstrated for the first time that GPR17 expression in the hippocampus and frontal cortex is increased in response to Aβ1-42 exposures. We also found that cangrelor treatment reduced the activity of β-secretase 1 (BACE1) and the levels of soluble Aβ1-42 in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. Meanwhile, cangrelor treatment suppressed oxidative stress induced by Aβ1-42, as proved by reduced production of malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), and promoted the expression of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1). Furthermore, cangrelor also suppressed Aβ1-42-induced neuroinflammation, characterized by suppressed activation of microglia, decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65, as well as ameliorated synaptic deficits by promoting the upregulation of synaptic proteins, and increasing the number of Golgi-Cox stained dendritic spines. These results suggest that cangrelor may reverse Aβ1-42-induced cognition deficits via inhibiting oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and synaptic dysfunction mediated by Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- ShiYu Jin
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xin Wang
- West Anhui Health Vocational College, Luan 237000, China
| | - XiaoTong Xiang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China
| | - YuMei Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jie Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China
| | - YueYue Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yue Lin Dong
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China
| | - YueQiang Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xian Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, The Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases of Anhui Province, Hefei 230032, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicines, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China.
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Poor SR, Ettcheto M, Cano A, Sanchez-Lopez E, Manzine PR, Olloquequi J, Camins A, Javan M. Metformin a Potential Pharmacological Strategy in Late Onset Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14090890. [PMID: 34577590 PMCID: PMC8465337 DOI: 10.3390/ph14090890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most devastating brain disorders. Currently, there are no effective treatments to stop the disease progression and it is becoming a major public health concern. Several risk factors are involved in the progression of AD, modifying neuronal circuits and brain cognition, and eventually leading to neuronal death. Among them, obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have attracted increasing attention, since brain insulin resistance can contribute to neurodegeneration. Consequently, AD has been referred to "type 3 diabetes" and antidiabetic medications such as intranasal insulin, glitazones, metformin or liraglutide are being tested as possible alternatives. Metformin, a first line antihyperglycemic medication, is a 5'-adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator hypothesized to act as a geroprotective agent. However, studies on its association with age-related cognitive decline have shown controversial results with positive and negative findings. In spite of this, metformin shows positive benefits such as anti-inflammatory effects, accelerated neurogenesis, strengthened memory, and prolonged life expectancy. Moreover, it has been recently demonstrated that metformin enhances synaptophysin, sirtuin-1, AMPK, and brain-derived neuronal factor (BDNF) immunoreactivity, which are essential markers of plasticity. The present review discusses the numerous studies which have explored (1) the neuropathological hallmarks of AD, (2) association of type 2 diabetes with AD, and (3) the potential therapeutic effects of metformin on AD and preclinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saghar Rabiei Poor
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran;
- Institute for Brain and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
| | - Miren Ettcheto
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
| | - Amanda Cano
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
- Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Sanchez-Lopez
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Regina Manzine
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
- Department of Gerontology, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Jordi Olloquequi
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca 3467987, Chile;
| | - Antoni Camins
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Institut de Neurociències, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (P.R.M.)
- Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), 08028 Madrid, Spain; (A.C.); (E.S.-L.)
- Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca 3467987, Chile;
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (M.J.)
| | - Mohammad Javan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran;
- Institute for Brain and Cognition, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (M.J.)
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Peruzzotti-Jametti L, Willis CM, Hamel R, Krzak G, Pluchino S. Metabolic Control of Smoldering Neuroinflammation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:705920. [PMID: 34249016 PMCID: PMC8262770 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.705920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Compelling evidence exists that patients with chronic neurological conditions, which includes progressive multiple sclerosis, display pathological changes in neural metabolism and mitochondrial function. However, it is unknown if a similar degree of metabolic dysfunction occurs also in non-neural cells in the central nervous system. Specifically, it remains to be clarified (i) the full extent of metabolic changes in tissue-resident microglia and infiltrating macrophages after prolonged neuroinflammation (e.g., at the level of chronic active lesions), and (ii) whether these alterations underlie a unique pathogenic phenotype that is amenable for therapeutic targeting. Herein, we discuss how cell metabolism and mitochondrial function govern the function of chronic active microglia and macrophages brain infiltrates and identify new metabolic targets for therapeutic approaches aimed at reducing smoldering neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Peruzzotti-Jametti
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Cory M Willis
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Regan Hamel
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Grzegorz Krzak
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Stefano Pluchino
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Kadry H, Noorani B, Bickel U, Abbruscato TJ, Cucullo L. Comparative assessment of in vitro BBB tight junction integrity following exposure to cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vapor: a quantitative evaluation of the protective effects of metformin using small-molecular-weight paracellular markers. Fluids Barriers CNS 2021; 18:28. [PMID: 34158083 PMCID: PMC8220771 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-021-00261-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The blood–brain barrier (BBB) plays a critical role in protecting the central nervous system (CNS) from blood-borne agents and potentially harmful xenobiotics. Our group’s previous data has shown that tobacco smoke (TS) and electronic cigarettes (EC) affect the BBB integrity, increase stroke incidence, and are considered a risk factor for multiple CNS disorders. Metformin was also found to abrogate the adverse effects of TS and EC. Methods We used sucrose and mannitol as paracellular markers to quantitatively assess TS and EC’s impact on the BBB in-vitro. Specifically, we used a quantitative platform to determine the harmful effects of smoking on the BBB and study the protective effect of metformin. Using a transwell system and iPSCs-derived BMECs, we assessed TS and EC’s effect on sucrose and mannitol permeability with and without metformin pre-treatment at different time points. Concurrently, using immunofluorescence (IF) and Western blot (WB) techniques, we evaluated the expression and distribution of tight junction proteins, including ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-5. Results Our data showed that TS and EC negatively affect sucrose and mannitol permeability starting after 6 h and up to 24 h. The loss of barrier integrity was associated with a reduction of TEER values. While the overall expression level of ZO-1 and occludin was not significantly downregulated, the distribution of ZO-1 was altered, and discontinuation patterns were evident through IF imaging. In contrast to occludin, claudin-5 expression was significantly decreased by TS and EC, as demonstrated by WB and IF data. Conclusion In agreement with previous studies, our data showed the metformin could counteract the negative impact of TS and EC on BBB integrity, thus suggesting the possibility of repurposing this drug to afford cerebrovascular protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam Kadry
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Behnam Noorani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Ulrich Bickel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA.,Center for Blood-Brain Barrier Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA
| | - Thomas J Abbruscato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA. .,Center for Blood-Brain Barrier Research, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, 79106, USA.
| | - Luca Cucullo
- Department of Foundation Medical Studies, Oakland University, William Beaumont School of Medicine586 Pioneer Dr, 460 O'Dowd Hall, Office 415, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA.
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Beneficial Effects of Metformin on the Central Nervous System, with a Focus on Epilepsy and Lafora Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105351. [PMID: 34069559 PMCID: PMC8160983 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin is a drug in the family of biguanide compounds that is widely used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Interestingly, the therapeutic potential of metformin expands its prescribed use as an anti-diabetic drug. In this sense, it has been described that metformin administration has beneficial effects on different neurological conditions. In this work, we review the beneficial effects of this drug as a neuroprotective agent in different neurological diseases, with a special focus on epileptic disorders and Lafora disease, a particular type of progressive myoclonus epilepsy. In addition, we review the different proposed mechanisms of action of metformin to understand its function at the neurological level.
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Orian JM, D'Souza CS, Kocovski P, Krippner G, Hale MW, Wang X, Peter K. Platelets in Multiple Sclerosis: Early and Central Mediators of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration and Attractive Targets for Molecular Imaging and Site-Directed Therapy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:620963. [PMID: 33679764 PMCID: PMC7933211 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.620963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Platelets are clearly central to thrombosis and hemostasis. In addition, more recently, evidence has emerged for non-hemostatic roles of platelets including inflammatory and immune reactions/responses. Platelets express immunologically relevant ligands and receptors, demonstrate adhesive interactions with endothelial cells, monocytes and neutrophils, and toll-like receptor (TLR) mediated responses. These properties make platelets central to innate and adaptive immunity and potential candidate key mediators of autoimmune disorders. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic autoimmune central nervous system (CNS) disease. An association between platelets and MS was first indicated by the increased adhesion of platelets to endothelial cells. This was followed by reports identifying structural and functional changes of platelets, their chronic activation in the peripheral blood of MS patients, platelet presence in MS lesions and the more recent revelation that these structural and functional abnormalities are associated with all MS forms and stages. Investigations based on the murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) MS model first revealed a contribution to EAE pathogenesis by exacerbation of CNS inflammation and an early role for platelets in EAE development via platelet-neuron and platelet-astrocyte associations, through sialated gangliosides in lipid rafts. Our own studies refined and extended these findings by identifying the critical timing of platelet accumulation in pre-clinical EAE and establishing an initiating and central rather than merely exacerbating role for platelets in disease development. Furthermore, we demonstrated platelet-neuron associations in EAE, coincident with behavioral changes, but preceding the earliest detectable autoreactive T cell accumulation. In combination, these findings establish a new paradigm by asserting that platelets play a neurodegenerative as well as a neuroinflammatory role in MS and therefore, that these two pathological processes are causally linked. This review will discuss the implications of these findings for our understanding of MS, for future applications for imaging toward early detection of MS, and for novel strategies for platelet-targeted treatment of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M Orian
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Claretta S D'Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Pece Kocovski
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Guy Krippner
- Medicinal Chemistry, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Matthew W Hale
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, School of Psychology and Public Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Atherothrombosis and Vascular Biology Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Molecular Imaging and Theranostics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Atherothrombosis and Vascular Biology Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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