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Martínez-Villaluenga C, Hernández-Ledesma B. Special Issue "Peptides for Health Benefits 2021". Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2362. [PMID: 38397038 PMCID: PMC10889464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have increased in prevalence in our society and have become a serious burden of disease worldwide [...].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Blanca Hernández-Ledesma
- Institute of Food Science Research (CIAL, CSIC-UAM, CEI UAM+CSIC), Nicolás Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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2
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Kong CC, Cheng JD, Wang W. Neurotransmitters regulate β cells insulin secretion: A neglected factor. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:6670-6679. [PMID: 37901031 PMCID: PMC10600852 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i28.6670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
β cells are the main cells responsible for the hypoglycemic function of pancreatic islets, and the insulin secreted by these cells is the only hormone that lowers blood glucose levels in the human body. β cells are regulated by various factors, among which neurotransmitters make an important contribution. This paper discusses the effects of neurotransmitters secreted by various sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves on β cells and summarizes the mechanisms by which various neurotransmitters regulate insulin secretion. Many neurotransmitters do not have a single source and are not only released from nerve terminals but also synthesized by β cells themselves, allowing them to synergistically regulate insulin secretion. Almost all of these neurotransmitters depend on the presence of glucose to function, and their actions are mostly related to the Ca2+ and cAMP concentrations. Although neurotransmitters have been extensively studied, many of their mechanisms remain unclear and require further exploration by researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu-Chu Kong
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361100, Fujian Province, China
| | - Ji-Dong Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361100, Fujian Province, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361100, Fujian Province, China
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3
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Rajbhandari AK, Barson JR, Gilmartin MR, Hammack SE, Chen BK. The functional heterogeneity of PACAP: Stress, learning, and pathology. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2023; 203:107792. [PMID: 37369343 PMCID: PMC10527199 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2023.107792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a highly conserved and widely expressed neuropeptide that has emerged as a key regulator of multiple neural and behavioral processes. PACAP systems, including the various PACAP receptor subtypes, have been implicated in neural circuits of learning and memory, stress, emotion, feeding, and pain. Dysregulation within these PACAP systems may play key roles in the etiology of pathological states associated with these circuits, and PACAP function has been implicated in stress-related psychopathology, feeding and metabolic disorders, and migraine. Accordingly, central PACAP systems may represent important therapeutic targets; however, substantial heterogeneity in PACAP systems related to the distribution of multiple PACAP isoforms across multiple brain regions, as well as multiple receptor subtypes with several isoforms, signaling pathways, and brain distributions, provides both challenges and opportunities for the development of new clinically-relevant strategies to target the PACAP system in health and disease. Here we review the heterogeneity of central PACAP systems, as well as the data implicating PACAP systems in clinically-relevant behavioral processes, with a particular focus on the considerable evidence implicating a role of PACAP in stress responding and learning and memory. We also review data suggesting that there are sex differences in PACAP function and its interactions with sex hormones. Finally, we discuss both the challenges and promise of harnessing the PACAP system in the development of new therapeutic avenues and highlight PACAP systems for their critical role in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jessica R Barson
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Marieke R Gilmartin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Sayamwong E Hammack
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont, 2 Colchester Avenue, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Briana K Chen
- Division of Systems Neuroscience, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. (RFMH) / New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, NY, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), New York, NY, United States.
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4
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Vu JP, Luong L, Sanford D, Oh S, Kuc A, Pisegna R, Lewis M, Pisegna JR, Germano PM. PACAP and VIP Neuropeptides' and Receptors' Effects on Appetite, Satiety and Metabolism. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1013. [PMID: 37508442 PMCID: PMC10376325 DOI: 10.3390/biology12071013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The overwhelming increase in the prevalence of obesity and related disorders in recent years is one of the greatest threats to the global healthcare system since it generates immense healthcare costs. As the prevalence of obesity approaches epidemic proportions, the importance of elucidating the mechanisms regulating appetite, satiety, body metabolism, energy balance and adiposity has garnered significant attention. Currently, gastrointestinal (GI) bariatric surgery remains the only approach capable of achieving successful weight loss. Appetite, satiety, feeding behavior, energy intake and expenditure are regulated by central and peripheral neurohormonal mechanisms that have not been fully elucidated yet. Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) and Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide (VIP) are members of a family of regulatory peptides that are widely distributed in parallel with their specific receptors, VPAC1R, VPAC2R and PAC1R, in the central nervous system (CNS) and in the periphery, such as in the gastrointestinal tract and its associated organs and immune cells. PACAP and VIP have been reported to play an important role in the regulation of body phenotype, metabolism and homeostatic functions. The purpose of this review is to present recent data on the effects of PACAP, VIP, VPAC1R, VPAC2R and PAC1R on the modulation of appetite, satiety, metabolism, calorie intake and fat accumulation, to evaluate their potential use as therapeutic targets for the treatment of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- John P Vu
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Leon Luong
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Daniel Sanford
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Suwan Oh
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Alma Kuc
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Rita Pisegna
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Michael Lewis
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90078, USA
- Department of Pathology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
- Department of Pathology, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Joseph R Pisegna
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Parenteral Nutrition, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and Department of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- Division of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Patrizia M Germano
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- CURE/Digestive Diseases Research Center, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
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5
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Sonkodi B, Marsovszky L, Csorba A, Balog A, Kopper B, Nagy ZZ, Resch MD. Neural Regeneration in Dry Eye Secondary to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Is Also Disrupted like in Rheumatoid Arthritis, but in a Progressive Fashion. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10680. [PMID: 37445856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310680] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Our objective in this study was to analyze the aberrant neural regeneration activity in the cornea by means of in vivo confocal microscopy in systemic lupus erythematosus patients with concurrent dry eye disease. We examined 29 systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 29 age-matched healthy control subjects. Corneal nerve fiber density (CNFD, the number of fibers/mm2) and peripheral Langerhans cell morphology were lower (p < 0.05) in systemic lupus erythematosus patients compared to the control group. Interestingly, corneal nerve branch density, corneal nerve fiber length, corneal nerve fiber total branch density, and corneal nerve fiber area showed a negative correlation with disease duration. A negative correlation was also demonstrated between average corneal nerve fiber density and central Langerhans cell density. This is in line with our hypothesis that corneal somatosensory terminal Piezo2 channelopathy-induced impaired Piezo2-Piezo1 crosstalk not only disrupts regeneration and keeps transcription activated, but could lead to Piezo1 downregulation and cell activation on Langerhans cells when we consider a chronic path. Hence, Piezo2 containing mechanosensory corneal nerves and dendritic Langerhans cells could also be regarded as central players in shaping the ocular surface neuroimmune homeostasis through the Piezo system. Moreover, lost autoimmune neuroinflammation compensation, lost phagocytic self-eating capacity, and lost transcription regulation, not to mention autoantibodies against vascular heparin sulfate proteoglycans and phospholipids, could all contribute to the progressive fashion of dry eye disease in systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balázs Sonkodi
- Department of Health Sciences and Sport Medicine, Hungarian University of Sports Science, 1123 Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Marsovszky
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anita Csorba
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Balog
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bence Kopper
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, 1123 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Zsolt Nagy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós D Resch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
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6
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Palus K, Bulc M, Całka J. Glyphosate affects the neurochemical phenotype of the intramural neurons in the duodenum in the pig. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2023; 35:e14507. [PMID: 36502523 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.14507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glyphosate-based herbicides have been one of the most intensively used pollutants worldwide and food products containing glyphosate are an essential component of human and animal diet. The aim of present study was to determine the effect of glyphosate intoxication on the neurochemical properties of the enteric nervous system (ENS) neurons located in the wall of the porcine duodenum. METHODS Fifteen sexually immature gilts divided into 3 groups were used: control-animals receiving empty gelatin capsules; G1-animals receiving a low dose of glyphosate-corresponding to the theoretical maximum daily intake (TMDI) - 0.05 mg/kg bw/day; G2-animals receiving a higher dose of glyphosate-corresponding to the acceptable daily intake (ADI)-0.5 mg/kg/day in gelatin capsules orally for 28 days. After this time, the animals were euthanized and small intestine samples were collected. Frozen sections were then subjected to the procedure of double immunofluorescent staining. KEY RESULTS Glyphosate supplementation led to alterations in the neurochemical code of the ENS neurons in the porcine duodenum. Generally, increased population of neurons immunoreactive to PACAP, CGRP, CART, nNOS, and a decreased number of VAChT-like immunoreactive neurons were noted. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES It may be a first preclinical symptom of digestive tract dysfunction in the course of glyphosate intoxication and further studies are needed to assess the toxicity and risks of glyphosate to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Palus
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Michał Bulc
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jarosław Całka
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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Karpiesiuk A, Całka J, Palus K. Acrylamide-Induced Changes in the Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) Immunoreactivity in Small Intestinal Intramural Neurons in Pigs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3272. [PMID: 36833970 PMCID: PMC9963040 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A particularly pressing problem is determining consumer-safe doses of potentially health- and life-threatening substances, such as acrylamide. The aim of the study was to determine how acrylamide affects the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP)-immunoreactive intramural neurons in the small intestine of sexually immature gilts. METHODS The study was conducted on 15 sexually immature Danish gilts receiving for 28 days empty gelatin capsules or acrylamide in low (0.5 µg/kg of body weight (b.w.)/day) and high (5 µg/kg b.w./day) doses. After euthanasia, intestinal sections were stained using the double immunofluorescence staining procedure. RESULTS Studies have shown that oral administration of acrylamide in both doses induced a response of intramural neurons expressed as an increase in the population of PACAP-immunoreactive neurons in the small intestine. In the duodenum, only in the myenteric plexus (MP) was an increase in the number of PACAP-immunoreactive (IR) neurons observed in both experimental groups, while in the outer submucous plexus (OSP) and inner submucous plexus (ISP), an increase was noted only in the high-dose group. In the jejunum, both doses of acrylamide led to an increase in the population of PACAP-IR neurons in each enteric plexus (MP, OSP, ISP), while in the ileum, only supplementation with the higher dose of acrylamide increased the number of PACAP-IR enteric neurons in the MP, OSP, and ISP. CONCLUSIONS The obtained results suggest the participation of PACAP in acrylamide-induced plasticity of enteric neurons, which may be an important line of defence from the harmful action of acrylamide on the small intestines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Karpiesiuk
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego Str. 13, 10-718 Olsztyn, Poland
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Yan X, Zhang Y, Lang H, Huang Z, Chen X, He H, Zhao Q, Wang J. Research on the mechanism of prednisone in the treatment of ITP via VIP/PACAP-mediated intestinal immune dysfunction. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:67. [PMID: 36750876 PMCID: PMC9906942 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-00987-x] [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: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is thought to be a result of immune dysfunction, which is treated by glucocorticoids such as prednisone. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) have immunomodulatory properties, but their role in intestinal immune control is unclear. The major goal of this study was to look at the effects of prednisone on platelet, VIP, and PACAP levels in ITP mice, as well as the regulatory system that controls intestinal immunity. METHODS Eighteen BALB/c mice were randomly divided into three groups: blank control group, model control group, and prednisone group, with six mice in each group. The ITP animal model control group and the prednisone group were injected with anti-platelet serum (APS) to replicate the ITP animal model. The prednisone group began prednisone intervention on the 8th day. Platelet count was dynamically measured before APS injection, on the 4th day of injection, on the 1st day of administration, on the 4th day of administration, and at the end of the experiment. After the experiment, the expression of p53 protein in mouse mesenteric lymph node lymphocytes was detected by immunohistochemistry. The changes in lymphocyte apoptosis rate in mouse mesenteric lymph nodes were detected by in situ terminal transferase labeling (TUNEL). The contents of VIP and PACAP in the mouse brain, colon, and serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The contents of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17A in the mouse spleen were detected by ELISA. RESULTS ①Changes of peripheral platelet count: there was no significant difference in platelet count among the three groups before modeling; on the 4th day, the platelet count decreased in the model control group and prednisone group; on the 8th day, the number of platelets in model control group and prednisone group was at the lowest level; on the 12th day, the platelet count in prednisone group recovered significantly; on the 15th day, the platelet count in prednisone group continued to rise. ②Changes of VIP, PACAP: compared with the blank control group, VIP and PACAP in the model control group decreased significantly in the brain, colon, and serum. Compared with the model control group, the levels of VIP and PACAP in the brain, colon, and serum in the prednisone group were increased except for serum PACAP. ③Changes of mesenteric lymphocytes: the expression of p53 protein in the mesenteric lymph nodes of model control group mice was significantly higher than that of blank control group mice. After prednisone intervention, the expression of p53 protein decreased significantly.④Changes of cytokines in spleen: compared with blank control group, IFN- γ, IL-17A increased and IL-4 and IL-10 decreased in model control group. After prednisone intervention, IFN- γ, IL-17A was down-regulated and IL-4 and IL-10 were upregulated. CONCLUSIONS Prednisone-upregulated VIP and PACAP levels decreased P53 protein expression and apoptosis rate in mesenteric lymph node lymphocytes and affected cytokine expression in ITP model mice. Therefore, we speculate that the regulation of intestinal immune function may be a potential mechanism of prednisone in treating ITP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yan
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yayue Zhang
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Haiyan Lang
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ziming Huang
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Chen
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hao He
- grid.508540.c0000 0004 4914 235XXi’an Medical University, Xi An, Shaanxi China
| | - Qian Zhao
- grid.24695.3c0000 0001 1431 9176Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China. .,Department of Hematology, Zhejiang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Toth D, Reglodi D, Schwieters L, Tamas A. Role of endocrine PACAP in age-related diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1118927. [PMID: 36967746 PMCID: PMC10033946 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1118927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a conserved neuropeptide, which confers diverse anti-aging endocrine and paracrine/autocrine effects, including anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action. The results of the in vivo and in vitro experiments show that increasing emphasis is being placed on the diagnostic/prognostic biomarker potential of this neuropeptide in a wide array of age-related diseases. After the initial findings regarding the presence and alteration of PACAP in different body fluids in physiological processes, an increasing number of studies have focused on the changes of its levels in various pathological conditions associated with advanced aging. Until 2016 - when the results of previous human studies were reviewed - a vast majority of the studies had dealt with age-related neurological diseases, like cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, multiple sclerosis, as well as some other common diseases in elderly such as migraine, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic hepatitis and nephrotic syndrome. The aim of this review is to summarize the old and the new results and highlight those 'classical' and emerging clinical fields in which PACAP may become subject to further investigation as a diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarker in age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denes Toth
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Lili Schwieters
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Andrea Tamas
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Team, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Andrea Tamas,
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Guo S, Jansen-Olesen I, Olesen J, Christensen SL. Role of PACAP in migraine: An alternative to CGRP? Neurobiol Dis 2023; 176:105946. [PMID: 36481434 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a widespread and debilitating neurological condition affecting more than a billion people worldwide. Thus, more effective migraine therapies are highly needed. In the last decade, two endogenous neuropeptides, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP), were identified to be implicated in migraine. Recently, introduction of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) blocking the CGRP is the most important advance in migraine therapy for decades. However, 40% of patients are unresponsive to these new drugs. We believe that PACAP may be involved in these patients. Like CGRP, PACAP is located to sensory nerve fibers, it dilates cranial arteries, it causes migraine when infused into patients and it is a peptide that lends itself to antibody therapy. Also, recent studies suggest that the PACAP pathway is independent of the CGRP pathway. Understanding the signaling pathways of PACAP may therefore lead to identification of novel therapeutic targets of particular interest in patients unresponsive to anti-CGRP therapy. Accordingly, neutralizing mAb to PACAP is currently in clinical phase II development. The aim of the present review is, therefore, to give a thorough account of the existing data on PACAP, its receptors and its relation to migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Guo
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Inger Jansen-Olesen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jes Olesen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sarah Louise Christensen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Headache Center, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Patko E, Szabo E, Toth D, Tornoczky T, Bosnyak I, Vaczy A, Atlasz T, Reglodi D. Distribution of PACAP and PAC1 Receptor in the Human Eye. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:2176-2187. [PMID: 35253081 PMCID: PMC9726800 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-01985-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide with widespread distribution and diverse biological functions. Several studies show that PACAP has strong cytoprotective effects mediated mostly through its specific PAC1 receptor (PAC1-R) and it plays important roles in several pathological conditions. Its distribution and altered expression are known in various human tissues, but there is no descriptive data about PACAP and its receptors in the human eyebulb. Since PACAP38 is the dominant form of the naturally occurring PACAP, our aim was to investigate the distribution of PACAP38-like immunoreactivity in the human eye and to describe the presence of PAC1-R. Semiquantitative evaluation was performed after routine histology and immunohistochemical labeling on human eye sections. Our results showed high level of immunopositivity in the corneal epithelium and endothelium. Within the vascular layer, the iris and the ciliary body had strong immunopositivity for both PACAP and PAC1-R. Several layers of the retina showed immunoreactivity for PACAP and PAC1-R, but the ganglion cell layer had a special pattern in the immunolabeling. Labeling was observed in the neuropil within the optic nerve in both cases and glial cells displayed immunoreactivity for PAC1-R. In summary, our study indicates the widespread occurrence of PACAP and its specific receptor in the human eye, implying that the results from in vitro and animal studies have translational value and most probably are also present in the human eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelin Patko
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Edina Szabo
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Denes Toth
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Tamas Tornoczky
- Department of Pathology, Medical School and Clinical Center, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Inez Bosnyak
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Vaczy
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Tamas Atlasz
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary.
- Szentagothai Research Center, Medical School, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary.
- Department of Sportbiology, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary.
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, Medical School, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
- Szentagothai Research Center, Medical School, University of Pecs, 7624, Pecs, Hungary
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12
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Hawley E, Mia K, Yusuf M, Swanson KC, Doetkott C, Dorsam GP. Messenger RNA Gene Expression Screening of VIP and PACAP Neuropeptides and Their Endogenous Receptors in Ruminants. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11101512. [PMID: 36290416 PMCID: PMC9598725 DOI: 10.3390/biology11101512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) and Pituitary Adenylate-Cyclase-Activating Peptide (PACAP) are anti-inflammatory neuropeptides that play important roles in human and rodent gut microbiota homeostasis and host immunity. Pharmacologically regulating these neuropeptides is expected to have significant health and feed efficiency benefits for agriculturally relevant animals. However, their expression profile in ruminant tissues is not well characterized. To this end, we screened for VIP and PACAP neuropeptides and their endogenous GPCRs using 15 different tissues from wethers and steers by RT-qPCR. Our results revealed relatively similar expression profiles for both VIP and PACAP neuropeptide ligands in the brain and intestinal tissue of both species. In contrast, the tissue expression profiles for VPAC1, VPAC2, and PAC1 were more widespread and disparate, with VPAC1 being the most diversely expressed receptor with mRNA detection in the brain and throughout the gastrointestinal tract. These data are an important first step to allow for future investigations regarding the VIP and PACAP signaling pathways in livestock ruminant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Hawley
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58102, USA
| | - Kafi Mia
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58102, USA
| | - Mustapha Yusuf
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58102, USA
| | - Kendall C. Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58102, USA
| | - Curt Doetkott
- Information Technology Services, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58102, USA
| | - Glenn P. Dorsam
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58102, USA
- Correspondence:
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13
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Luo W, Dai J, Liu J, Huang Y, Zheng Z, Xu P, Ma Y. PACAP attenuates hepatic lipid accumulation through the FAIM/AMPK/IRβ axis during overnutrition. Mol Metab 2022; 65:101584. [PMID: 36055580 PMCID: PMC9478455 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2022.101584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) was reported to attenuate hepatic lipid accumulation in overnutrition-related metabolic disorder, mediated by up-regulation of fas apoptosis inhibitory molecule (FAIM). However, how PACAP regulates FAIM in metabolic tissues remains to be addressed. Here we investigated the underlying mechanism on the role of PACAP in ameliorating metabolic disorder and examined the potential therapeutic effects of PACAP in preventing the progression of metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Methods Mouse models with MAFLD induced by high-fat diet were employed. Different doses of PACAP were intraperitoneally administrated. Western blot, luciferase assay, lentiviral-mediated gene manipulations and animal metabolic phenotyping analysis were performed to explore the signaling pathway involved in PACAP function. Results PACAP ameliorated the excessive hepatic lipid accumulation and inhibited lipogenesis in HFD-fed C57BL/6J mice. Mechanistically, PACAP activated the FAIM-AMPK-IRβ axis to inhibit the expression of lipid synthesis genes, and FAIM mediated the effects of PACAP. FAIM suppression via lentiviral-mediated shRNA inhibited the activation of AMPK, whereas FAIM overexpression promoted AMPK activation. PACAP increased the promoter activity of FAIM gene through activating PKA-CREB signaling pathway. Conclusion Our work demonstrated that the administration of PACAP represented a feasible approach for treating hepatic lipid accumulation in MAFLD. The findings reveal the molecular mechanism that PACAP increase FAIM expression and activates the FAIM/AMPK/IRβ signaling axis, thus inhibits lipogenesis to mediate its beneficial effects. PACAP ameliorates hepatic lipid accumulation through the AMPK pathway. AMPK is a downstream mediator of FAIM. FAIM is transcriptionally activated by CREB and regulated by PACAP. PACAP regulates the FAIM-AMPK-IRβ axis to treat fatty liver phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Luo
- Department of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxin Dai
- Department of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianmin Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongmei Huang
- Department of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziqiong Zheng
- Department of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pei Xu
- Department of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Ma
- Department of Cellular Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine of Guangdong Province, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
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14
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Investigation of the Role of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Peptide (PACAP) and Its Type 1 (PAC1) Receptor in Uterine Contractility during Endometritis in Pigs. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105467. [PMID: 35628275 PMCID: PMC9146118 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine inflammation is a common pathology in animals, leading to disturbances in reproductive processes and reduced production profitability. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) effects at the uterine level during inflammation are not known. In the current study, we analyzed the relative PACAP type 1 receptor (PAC1R) mRNA transcript and protein abundances in the myometrium (MYO), as well s PACAP and PAC1R involvement in the contractile function of inflamed pig uterus. To that end, E. coli suspension (E. coli group) or saline (SAL group) was injected into the uterine horns or laparotomy was performed (CON group). Eight days after the bacteria injections, severe acute endometritis and a reduced relative abundance of PAC1R protein in the MYO were observed. Compared to the period before PACAP in vitro administration, PACAP (10-7 M) in the CON and SAL groups decreased in amplitude in the MYO and endometrium (ENDO)/MYO, whereas in the E. coli group, increased amplitude in the MYO and reduced amplitude in the ENDO/MYO were observed. In the E. coli group, PACAP enhanced the amplitude in the MYO (10-7 M) and decreased the amplitude in the ENDO/MYO (10-8 M) compared with other groups. PACAP (10-7 M) increased the frequency of both kinds of strips in the CON and SAL groups compared with the pretreatment period. PACAP (both doses) did not significantly change the frequency in the E. coli group, whereas in response to PACAP (10-7 M), the frequency was reduced compared to other groups. In the MYO, PAC1R antagonist decreased the amplitude reduction (CON and SAL groups) and reversed a rise in PACAP (10-7 M)-evoked amplitude (E. coli group). PAC1R blocking reversed (MYO) and abolished (ENDO/MYO) the stimulatory effect of PACAP (10-7 M) on the frequency (CON and SAL groups). PAC1R antagonist and PACAP (10-7 M) evoked the appearance of frequency depression in both kinds of strips (E. coli group). In summary, in pigs, severe acute endometritis reduces the relative abundance of PAC1R protein in the MYO, and PAC1R mediates the influence of PACAP on inflamed uterus contractility.
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Dominguez-Moreno R, Do TP, Ashina M. Calcitonin gene-related peptide and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide in migraine treatment. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2022; 29:225-231. [PMID: 35066541 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the latest advances in migraine management with a focus on medications specifically developed for the treatment of migraine. RECENT FINDINGS Randomized clinical trials demonstrated the efficacy of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) mAbs for the preventive treatment of migraine and the small molecule CGRP receptor antagonist gepants for acute abortion and prevention of migraine attacks. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is another signaling molecule of interest and represents a potential new drug class of mechanism-based migraine medications. Drugs targeting PACAP are currently undergoing clinical trials, and the coming years will reveal whether this class of drugs will expand our therapeutic armamentarium. SUMMARY Here, we summarize the role of CGRP and PACAP in migraine pathophysiology and discuss novel therapies targeting the CGRP and PACAP signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogelio Dominguez-Moreno
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen
| | - Thien Phu Do
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen
| | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen
- Danish Knowledge Center on Headache Disorders, Glostrup, Denmark
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de Almeida Miranda D, Araripe J, de Morais Magalhães NG, de Siqueira LS, de Abreu CC, Pereira PDC, Henrique EP, da Silva Chira PAC, de Melo MAD, do Rêgo PS, Diniz DG, Sherry DF, Diniz CWP, Guerreiro-Diniz C. Shorebirds' Longer Migratory Distances Are Associated With Larger ADCYAP1 Microsatellites and Greater Morphological Complexity of Hippocampal Astrocytes. Front Psychol 2022; 12:784372. [PMID: 35185684 PMCID: PMC8855117 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.784372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For the epic journey of autumn migration, long-distance migratory birds use innate and learned information and follow strict schedules imposed by genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, the details of which remain largely unknown. In addition, bird migration requires integrated action of different multisensory systems for learning and memory, and the hippocampus appears to be the integration center for this task. In previous studies we found that contrasting long-distance migratory flights differentially affected the morphological complexity of two types of hippocampus astrocytes. Recently, a significant association was found between the latitude of the reproductive site and the size of the ADCYAP1 allele in long distance migratory birds. We tested for correlations between astrocyte morphological complexity, migratory distances, and size of the ADCYAP1 allele in three long-distance migrant species of shorebird and one non-migrant. Significant differences among species were found in the number and morphological complexity of the astrocytes, as well as in the size of the microsatellites of the ADCYAP1 gene. We found significant associations between the size of the ADCYAP1 microsatellites, the migratory distances, and the degree of morphological complexity of the astrocytes. We suggest that associations between astrocyte number and morphological complexity, ADCYAP1 microsatellite size, and migratory behavior may be part of the adaptive response to the migratory process of shorebirds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego de Almeida Miranda
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil.,Laboratório de Genética e Conservação, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Juliana Araripe
- Laboratório de Genética e Conservação, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Nara G de Morais Magalhães
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Lucas Silva de Siqueira
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Cintya Castro de Abreu
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Patrick Douglas Corrêa Pereira
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Ediely Pereira Henrique
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Pedro Arthur Campos da Silva Chira
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Mauro A D de Melo
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Péricles Sena do Rêgo
- Laboratório de Genética e Conservação, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará, Bragança, Brazil
| | - Daniel Guerreiro Diniz
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Belém, Brazil.,Laboratório de Microscopia Eletrônica, Instituto Evandro Chagas, Belém, Brazil
| | - David Francis Sherry
- Department of Psychology, Advanced Facility for Avian Research, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Cristovam W P Diniz
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Belém, Brazil
| | - Cristovam Guerreiro-Diniz
- Instituto Federal de Educação Ciência e Tecnologia do Pará, Campus Bragança, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Neuroecologia, Bragança, Brazil
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Koppan M, Nagy Z, Bosnyak I, Reglodi D. Female reproductive functions of the neuropeptide PACAP. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:982551. [PMID: 36204113 PMCID: PMC9531758 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.982551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide originally isolated as a hypothalamic peptide. It has a widespread distribution in the body and has a diverse spectrum of actions. Among other processes, PACAP has been shown to be involved in reproduction. In this review we summarize findings related to the entire spectrum of female reproduction. PACAP is a regulatory factor in gonadal hormone production, influences follicular development and plays a role in fertilization and embryonic/placental development. Furthermore, PACAP is involved in hormonal changes during and after birth and affects maternal behavior. Although most data come from cell cultures and animal experiments, increasing number of evidence suggests that similar effects of PACAP can be found in humans. Among other instances, PACAP levels show changes in the serum during pregnancy and birth. PACAP is also present in the human follicular and amniotic fluids and in the milk. Levels of PACAP in follicular fluid correlate with the number of retrieved oocytes in hyperstimulated women. Human milk contains very high levels of PACAP compared to plasma levels, with colostrum showing the highest concentration, remaining steady thereafter for the first 7 months of lactation. All these data imply that PACAP has important functions in reproduction both under physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zsuzsanna Nagy
- Department of Physiology, University of Pecs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Inez Bosnyak
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Group and Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, ELKH-PTE PACAP Research Group and Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Dora Reglodi,
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On JSW, Su L, Shen H, Arokiaraj AWR, Cardoso JCR, Li G, Chow BKC. PACAP/GCGa Is an Important Modulator of the Amphioxus CNS-Hatschek's Pit Axis, the Homolog of the Vertebrate Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis in the Basal Chordates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:850040. [PMID: 35498398 PMCID: PMC9049855 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.850040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hatschek's pit in the cephalochordate amphioxus, an invertebrate deuterostome basal to chordates is suggested to be the functional homolog structure of the vertebrate adenohypophysis based on anatomy and expression of homologous neuroendocrine genes. However, the endocrine potential of the cephalochordate Hatschek's pit remains to be demonstrated as well as the physiological actions of the secreted neuropeptides. In this study, we have explored the distribution and characterize the potential function of the amphioxus PACAP/GCG precursor, which is the ortholog of the hypothalamic PACAP neuropeptide in vertebrates. In amphioxi, two PACAP/GCG transcripts PACAP/GCGa and PACAP/GCGbc that are alternative isoforms of a single gene with different peptide coding potentials were isolated. Immunofluorescence staining detected their expression around the nucleus of Rohde, supporting that this structure may be homologous of the neurosecretory cells of the vertebrate hypothalamus where abundant PACAP is found. PACAP/GCGa was also detected in the infundibulum-like downgrowth approaching the Hatschek's pit, indicating diffusion of PACAP/GCGa from the CNS to the pit via the infundibulum-like downgrowth. Under a high salinity challenge, PACAP/GCGa was upregulated in amphioxi head and PACAP/GCGa treatment increased expression of GHl in Hatschek's pit in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that PACAP/GCGa may be involved in the regulation of GHl via hypothalamic-pituitary (HP)-like axis similar as in the vertebrates. Our results support that the amphioxus Hatschek's pit is likely to be the functional homolog of pituitary gland in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason S. W. On
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Liuru Su
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hong Shen
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - João C. R. Cardoso
- Comparative Endocrinology and Integrative Biology, Centre of Marine Sciences, Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Guang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- *Correspondence: Billy K. C. Chow, ; Guang Li,
| | - Billy K. C. Chow
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Billy K. C. Chow, ; Guang Li,
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