1
|
Possemis N, Verhey F, Prickaerts J, Blokland A, Ramakers I. A proof of concept phase II study with the PDE-4 inhibitor roflumilast in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease dementia (ROMEMA): study protocol of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, between-subjects trial. Trials 2024; 25:162. [PMID: 38438923 PMCID: PMC10910786 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08001-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research into the neurobiological underpinnings of learning and memory has demonstrated the cognitive-enhancing effects associated with diverse classes of phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. Specific PDE inhibitors have been identified to improve neuronal communication through selective inhibition of PDE activity. Roflumilast, a PDE4 inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing episodic memory in healthy adults and elderly participants with pronounced memory impairment, indicative of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). In alignment with these findings, the present protocol aims to provide a proof of concept phase II of the potential of roflumilast to aid patients diagnosed with (a)MCI or mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. METHODS The study will be conducted according to a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled, between-subjects design. Participants with (a)MCI and mild AD dementia will be recruited through the Memory Clinic at the Maastricht University Medical Centre + (MUMC +) in Maastricht, the Netherlands, alongside outreach through regional hospitals, and social media. The study will have three arms: placebo, 50 μg roflumilast, and 100 μg roflumilast, with a treatment duration of 24 weeks. The primary outcome measure will focus on the assessment of episodic memory, as evaluated through participants' performance on the 15-word Verbal Learning Task (VLT). Our secondary objectives are multifaceted, including an exploration of various cognitive domains. In addition, insights into the well-being and daily functioning of participants will be investigated through interviews with both the participants and their (informal) caregivers, we are interested in the well-being and daily functioning of the participants. DISCUSSION The outcomes of the present study aim to elucidate the significance of the PDE4 inhibition mechanism as a prospective therapeutic target for enhancing cognitive function in individuals with (a)MCI and mild AD dementia. Identifying positive effects within these patient cohorts could extend the relevance of this treatment to encompass a broader spectrum of neurological disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION The Medical Ethics Committee of MUMC + granted ethics approval for the 4th version of the protocol on September 10th, 2020. The trial was registered at the European Drug Regulatory Affairs Clinical Trials (EudraCT) registered on the 19th of December 2019 ( https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2019-004959-36/NL ) and ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT04658654, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04658654?intr=roflumilast&cond=mci&rank=1 ) on the 8th of December 2020. The Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects (CCMO) granted approval on the 30th of September 2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Possemis
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental, Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Frans Verhey
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan Blokland
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Inez Ramakers
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhao H, Blokland A, Prickaerts J, Havekes R, Heckman PRA. Treatment with the selective PDE4B inhibitor A-33 or PDE4D inhibitor zatolmilast prevents sleep deprivation-induced deficits in spatial pattern separation. Behav Brain Res 2024; 459:114798. [PMID: 38056709 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Sleep deprivation (SD) disrupts hippocampus-dependent memory, particularly in the dentate gyrus (DG) region, an area crucial for pattern separation. Previous research showed that non-selective phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) inhibitors like roflumilast can alleviate these deficits. However, it remains unclear whether these outcomes are specific to a particular subfamily of PDE4. Hence, this study examined the specific impact of PDE4B inhibitor (A-33) and PDE4D inhibitor (zatolmilast) on spatial pattern separation in sleep deprived mice. Results demonstrated that SD impairs pattern separation, but both zatolmilast and A-33 alleviate these effects. However, A-33 impaired pattern separation in non-sleep deprived animals. The cognitive benefits of these inhibitors after SD may arise from alterations in relevant signaling pathways in the DG. This study provides initial evidence that inhibiting PDE4B or PDE4D holds promise for mitigating memory deficits due to SD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Zhao
- Dept. Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Arjan Blokland
- Dept. Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Dept. Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Robbert Havekes
- Neurobiology Expert Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Pim R A Heckman
- Dept. Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Possemis N, ter Huurne D, Banning L, Gruters A, Van Asbroeck S, König A, Linz N, Tröger J, Langel K, Blokland A, Prickaerts J, de Vugt M, Verhey F, Ramakers I. The Reliability and Clinical Validation of Automatically-Derived Verbal Memory Features of the Verbal Learning Test in Early Diagnostics of Cognitive Impairment. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 97:179-191. [PMID: 38108348 PMCID: PMC10789344 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has shown that verbal memory accurately measures cognitive decline in the early phases of neurocognitive impairment. Automatic speech recognition from the verbal learning task (VLT) can potentially be used to differentiate between people with and without cognitive impairment. OBJECTIVE Investigate whether automatic speech recognition (ASR) of the VLT is reliable and able to differentiate between subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). METHODS The VLT was recorded and processed via a mobile application. Following, verbal memory features were automatically extracted. The diagnostic performance of the automatically derived features was investigated by training machine learning classifiers to distinguish between participants with SCD versus MCI/dementia. RESULTS The ICC for inter-rater reliability between the clinical and automatically derived features was 0.87 for the total immediate recall and 0.94 for the delayed recall. The full model including the total immediate recall, delayed recall, recognition count, and the novel verbal memory features had an AUC of 0.79 for distinguishing between participants with SCD versus MCI/dementia. The ten best differentiating VLT features correlated low to moderate with other cognitive tests such as logical memory tasks, semantic verbal fluency, and executive functioning. CONCLUSIONS The VLT with automatically derived verbal memory features showed in general high agreement with the clinical scoring and distinguished well between SCD and MCI/dementia participants. This might be of added value in screening for cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Possemis
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daphne ter Huurne
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Leonie Banning
- Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Stephanie Van Asbroeck
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandra König
- National Institute for Research in Computer Science and Automation (INRIA), Valbonne, Sophia Antipolis, France
- ki:elements, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | | | | | - Kai Langel
- Janssen Clinical Innovation, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Arjan Blokland
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein de Vugt
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Frans Verhey
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Inez Ramakers
- Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Machado Batista Sohn J, Cardoso NC, Raymundi AM, Prickaerts J, Stern CAJ. Phosphodiesterase 4 inhibition after retrieval switches the memory fate favoring extinction instead of reconsolidation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20384. [PMID: 37990053 PMCID: PMC10663466 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47717-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), an enzyme expressed in the dorsal hippocampus (DH), hydrolyzes the cAMP, limiting the PKA-induced CREB phosphorylation (pCREB) and BDNF expression. Depending on the brain region, PKA and pCREB mediate reconsolidation or extinction, whereas BDNF is mainly related to extinction facilitation. The mechanisms underpinning the switch between reconsolidation and extinction are relatively unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that PDE4 might control these processes. We showed in Wistar rats submitted to contextual fear conditioning that PDE4 inhibition with roflumilast (ROF) within the DH, after a short retrieval, did not change freezing behavior after one day (TestA1). After 10 days, the ROF-treated group significantly reduced the expression of freezing behavior. This effect depended on retrieval, Test A1 exposure, and reinstated after a remainder foot shock, suggesting an extinction facilitation. The ROF effect depended on PKA after retrieval or, protein synthesis after Test A1. After retrieval, ROF treatment did not change the pCREB/CREB ratio in the DH. It enhanced proBDNF expression without changing pre-proBDNF or mature BDNF in the DH after Test A1. The results suggest that the inhibition of PDE4 in the DH after a short retrieval changes the memory sensibility from reconsolidation to extinction via regulating proBDNF expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeferson Machado Batista Sohn
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ana Maria Raymundi
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nelissen E, Schepers M, Ponsaerts L, Foulquier S, Bronckaers A, Vanmierlo T, Sandner P, Prickaerts J. Soluble guanylyl cyclase: A novel target for the treatment of vascular cognitive impairment? Pharmacol Res 2023; 197:106970. [PMID: 37884069 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) describes neurodegenerative disorders characterized by a vascular component. Pathologically, it involves decreased cerebral blood flow (CBF), white matter lesions, endothelial dysfunction, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) impairments. Molecularly, oxidative stress and inflammation are two of the major underlying mechanisms. Nitric oxide (NO) physiologically stimulates soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) to induce cGMP production. However, under pathological conditions, NO seems to be at the basis of oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to a decrease in sGC activity and expression. The native form of sGC needs a ferrous heme group bound in order to be sensitive to NO (Fe(II)sGC). Oxidation of sGC leads to the conversion of ferrous to ferric heme (Fe(III)sGC) and even heme-loss (apo-sGC). Both Fe(III)sGC and apo-sGC are insensitive to NO, and the enzyme is therefore inactive. sGC activity can be enhanced either by targeting the NO-sensitive native sGC (Fe(II)sGC), or the inactive, oxidized sGC (Fe(III)sGC) and the heme-free apo-sGC. For this purpose, sGC stimulators acting on Fe(II)sGC and sGC activators acting on Fe(III)sGC/apo-sGC have been developed. These sGC agonists have shown their efficacy in cardiovascular diseases by restoring the physiological and protective functions of the NO-sGC-cGMP pathway, including the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation, and improvement of vascular functioning. Yet, only very little research has been performed within the cerebrovascular system and VCI pathology when focusing on sGC modulation and its potential protective mechanisms on vascular and neural function. Therefore, within this review, the potential of sGC as a target for treating VCI is highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, the Netherlands; Neuro-immune connect and repair lab, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium
| | - Laura Ponsaerts
- Neuro-immune connect and repair lab, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; Department of Cardio & Organ Systems (COS), Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Sébastien Foulquier
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), School for Cardiovascular Diseases (CARIM), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Annelies Bronckaers
- Department of Cardio & Organ Systems (COS), Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, the Netherlands; Neuro-immune connect and repair lab, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113 Wuppertal, Germany; Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tiane A, Schepers M, Reijnders RA, van Veggel L, Chenine S, Rombaut B, Dempster E, Verfaillie C, Wasner K, Grünewald A, Prickaerts J, Pishva E, Hellings N, van den Hove D, Vanmierlo T. From methylation to myelination: epigenomic and transcriptomic profiling of chronic inactive demyelinated multiple sclerosis lesions. Acta Neuropathol 2023; 146:283-299. [PMID: 37286732 PMCID: PMC10328906 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-023-02596-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In the progressive phase of multiple sclerosis (MS), the hampered differentiation capacity of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) eventually results in remyelination failure. We have previously shown that DNA methylation of Id2/Id4 is highly involved in OPC differentiation and remyelination. In this study, we took an unbiased approach by determining genome-wide DNA methylation patterns within chronically demyelinated MS lesions and investigated how certain epigenetic signatures relate to OPC differentiation capacity. We compared genome-wide DNA methylation and transcriptional profiles between chronically demyelinated MS lesions and matched normal-appearing white matter (NAWM), making use of post-mortem brain tissue (n = 9/group). DNA methylation differences that inversely correlated with mRNA expression of their corresponding genes were validated for their cell-type specificity in laser-captured OPCs using pyrosequencing. The CRISPR-dCas9-DNMT3a/TET1 system was used to epigenetically edit human-iPSC-derived oligodendrocytes to assess the effect on cellular differentiation. Our data show hypermethylation of CpGs within genes that cluster in gene ontologies related to myelination and axon ensheathment. Cell type-specific validation indicates a region-dependent hypermethylation of MBP, encoding for myelin basic protein, in OPCs obtained from white matter lesions compared to NAWM-derived OPCs. By altering the DNA methylation state of specific CpGs within the promotor region of MBP, using epigenetic editing, we show that cellular differentiation and myelination can be bidirectionally manipulated using the CRISPR-dCas9-DNMT3a/TET1 system in vitro. Our data indicate that OPCs within chronically demyelinated MS lesions acquire an inhibitory phenotype, which translates into hypermethylation of crucial myelination-related genes. Altering the epigenetic status of MBP can restore the differentiation capacity of OPCs and possibly boost (re)myelination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Assia Tiane
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Rick A. Reijnders
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lieve van Veggel
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Sarah Chenine
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Emma Dempster
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Catherine Verfaillie
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kobi Wasner
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Anne Grünewald
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ehsan Pishva
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Niels Hellings
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Daniel van den Hove
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Handels R, Grimm S, Blokland A, Possemis N, Ramakers I, Sambeth A, Verhey F, Vos S, Joore M, Prickaerts J, Jönsson L. The value of maintaining cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment: The innovation headroom and potential cost-effectiveness of roflumilast. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:3458-3471. [PMID: 36808801 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early health-technology assessment can support discussing scarce resource allocation among stakeholders. We explored the value of maintaining cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) by estimating: (1) the innovation headroom and (2) the potential cost effectiveness of roflumilast treatment in this population. METHODS The innovation headroom was operationalized by a fictive 100% efficacious treatment effect, and the roflumilast effect on memory word learning test was assumed to be associated with 7% relative risk reduction of dementia onset. Both were compared to Dutch setting usual care using the adapted International Pharmaco-Economic Collaboration on Alzheimer's Disease (IPECAD) open-source model. RESULTS The total innovation headroom expressed as net health benefit was 4.2 (95% bootstrap interval: 2.9-5.7) quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The potential cost effectiveness of roflumilast was k€34 per QALY. DISCUSSION The innovation headroom in MCI is substantial. Although the potential cost effectiveness of roflumilast treatment is uncertain, further research on its effect on dementia onset is likely valuable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ron Handels
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Sabine Grimm
- KEMTA, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Arjan Blokland
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, EURON, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Nina Possemis
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Inez Ramakers
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Anke Sambeth
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, EURON, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Frans Verhey
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Stephanie Vos
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Manuela Joore
- KEMTA, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Linus Jönsson
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kerkhofs D, Helgers R, Hermes D, Steinbusch HP, Van Essen H, Leenders P, Prickaerts J, Staals J, Biessen EA, Van Oostenbrugge RJ, Foulquier S. Amlodipine limits microglia activation and cognitive dysfunction in aged hypertensive mice. J Hypertens 2023; 41:1159-1167. [PMID: 37071429 PMCID: PMC10242521 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND SBP and blood pressure variability are independent risk factors for cerebral small vessel disease, a leading cause for stroke and dementia. Calcium-channel blockers are known to reduce blood pressure variability and may thus offer benefit against dementia. Beyond this effect, the impact of calcium-channel blockers on hypertension-induced neuroinflammation, and especially, microglial phenotype remains unknown. We aimed to study the ability of amlopidine to alleviate microglia inflammation, and slow down cognitive dysfunction in aged hypertensive mice. METHODS Hypertensive BPH/2J and normotensive BPN/3J mice were studied until 12 months of age. Hypertensive mice were untreated or received amlodipine (10 mg/kg per day). Blood pressure parameters were measured by telemetry and tail cuff plethysmography. Mice underwent repeated series of cognitive tasks. Brain immunohistochemistry was performed to study blood-brain barrier dysfunction and microglial pro-inflammatory phenotype (CD68 + Iba1 + cells; morphological analysis). RESULTS Amlodipine normalized SBP over the entire life span and decreased blood pressure variability. BPH/2J mice exhibited impaired short-term memory that was prevented by amlodipine at 12 months (discrimination index 0.41 ± 0.25 in amlodipine-treated vs. 0.14 ± 0.15 in untreated BPH/2J mice, P = 0.02). Amlopidine treatment of BPH/2J did not prevent blood-brain barrier leakage, a measure of cerebral small vessel disease, but limited its size. Microglia's inflammatory phenotype in BPH/2J, characterized by an increased number of Iba1 + CD68 + cells, increased soma size and shortened processes, was partly reduced by amlodipine. CONCLUSION Amlodipine attenuated the short-term memory impairment in aged hypertensive mice. Beyond its blood pressure lowering capacity, amlodipine may be cerebroprotective by modulating neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Kerkhofs
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center
- Department of Pathology
- CARIM, School for Cardiovascular Diseases
| | | | - Denise Hermes
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology
- MH&NS, School for Mental Health and Neurosciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hellen P.J. Steinbusch
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology
- MH&NS, School for Mental Health and Neurosciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology
- MH&NS, School for Mental Health and Neurosciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Julie Staals
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center
- CARIM, School for Cardiovascular Diseases
| | - Erik A. Biessen
- Department of Pathology
- CARIM, School for Cardiovascular Diseases
- IMCAR, Institute for Molecular Cardiology Research, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Robert J. Van Oostenbrugge
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center
- CARIM, School for Cardiovascular Diseases
- MH&NS, School for Mental Health and Neurosciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sébastien Foulquier
- CARIM, School for Cardiovascular Diseases
- MH&NS, School for Mental Health and Neurosciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmacology-Toxicology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Paes D, Schepers M, Willems E, Rombaut B, Tiane A, Solomina Y, Tibbo A, Blair C, Kyurkchieva E, Baillie GS, Ricciarelli R, Brullo C, Fedele E, Bruno O, van den Hove D, Vanmierlo T, Prickaerts J. Ablation of specific long PDE4D isoforms increases neurite elongation and conveys protection against amyloid-β pathology. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:178. [PMID: 37306762 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04804-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Inhibition of phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D) enzymes has been investigated as therapeutic strategy to treat memory problems in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although PDE4D inhibitors are effective in enhancing memory processes in rodents and humans, severe side effects may hamper their clinical use. PDE4D enzymes comprise different isoforms, which, when targeted specifically, can increase treatment efficacy and safety. The function of PDE4D isoforms in AD and in molecular memory processes per se has remained unresolved. Here, we report the upregulation of specific PDE4D isoforms in transgenic AD mice and hippocampal neurons exposed to amyloid-β. Furthermore, by means of pharmacological inhibition and CRISPR-Cas9 knockdown, we show that the long-form PDE4D3, -D5, -D7, and -D9 isoforms regulate neuronal plasticity and convey resilience against amyloid-β in vitro. These results indicate that isoform-specific, next to non-selective, PDE4D inhibition is efficient in promoting neuroplasticity in an AD context. Therapeutic effects of non-selective PDE4D inhibitors are likely achieved through actions on long isoforms. Future research should identify which long PDE4D isoforms should be specifically targeted in vivo to both improve treatment efficacy and reduce side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dean Paes
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Emily Willems
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Assia Tiane
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Yevgeniya Solomina
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Amy Tibbo
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Connor Blair
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Elka Kyurkchieva
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - George S Baillie
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Roberta Ricciarelli
- Section of General Pathology, Department of Experimental Medicine, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Chiara Brullo
- Section of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ernesto Fedele
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
- Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Olga Bruno
- Section of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniel van den Hove
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Schepers M, Malheiro A, Gamardo AS, Hellings N, Prickaerts J, Moroni L, Vanmierlo T, Wieringa P. Phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4 inhibition boosts Schwann cell myelination in a 3D regeneration model. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 185:106441. [PMID: 37004962 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors have been extensively researched for their anti-inflammatory and neuroregenerative properties. Despite the known neuroplastic and myelin regenerative properties of nonselective PDE4 inhibitors on the central nervous system, the direct impact on peripheral remyelination and subsequent neuroregeneration has not yet been investigated. Therefore, to examine the possible therapeutic effect of PDE4 inhibition on peripheral glia, we assessed the differentiation of primary rat Schwann cells exposed in vitro to the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast. To further investigate the differentiation promoting effects of roflumilast, we developed a 3D model of rat Schwann cell myelination that closely resembles the in vivo situation. Using these in vitro models, we demonstrated that pan-PDE4 inhibition using roflumilast significantly promoted differentiation of Schwann cells towards a myelinating phenotype, as indicated by the upregulation of myelin proteins, including MBP and MAG. Additionally, we created a unique regenerative model comprised of a 3D co-culture of rat Schwann cells and human iPSC-derived neurons. Schwann cells treated with roflumilast enhanced axonal outgrowth of iPSC-derived nociceptive neurons, which was accompanied by an accelerated myelination speed, thereby showing not only phenotypic but also functional changes of roflumilast-treated Schwann cells. Taken together, the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast possesses a therapeutic benefit to stimulate Schwann cell differentiation and, subsequently myelination, as demonstrated in the biologically relevant in vitro platform used in this study. These results can aid in the development of novel PDE4 inhibition-based therapies in the advancement of peripheral regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Schepers
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, MD 6200, the Netherlands; Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Afonso Malheiro
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, the Netherlands
| | - Adrián Seijas Gamardo
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, the Netherlands
| | - Niels Hellings
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, MD 6200, the Netherlands
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, the Netherlands
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, MD 6200, the Netherlands; Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium; University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium.
| | - Paul Wieringa
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Aguiar RP, Soares LM, Varney M, Newman-Tancredi A A, Milani H, Prickaerts J, de Oliveira RMW. NLX-101, a 5-HT 1A receptor-biased agonist, improves pattern separation and stimulates neuroplasticity in aged rats. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 124:52-59. [PMID: 36739621 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
5-HT1A serotonin receptors may play a role in cognitive function changes related to advanced age. Here, we investigated the effects of acute and repeated treatment with NLX-101 (F15599), a postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptor-biased agonist, and F13714, a presynaptic 5-HT1A receptor-biased agonist on spatial object pattern separation (OPS) in aged (22-24 months) rats. Neuroplasticity markers including brain-derived neurotrophic factor, PSD95, synaptophysin, and doublecortin were evaluated in the hippocampus. Unlike younger rats, aged rats were incapable of discriminating any new position of the objects in the arena, reflecting the detrimental effect of aging on pattern separation. However, aged animals treated with NLX-101 showed a significant cognitive improvement in the OPS test, accompanied by increases in hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor and PSD95 protein levels. In contrast, no improvement in OPS performance was observed when aged rats received F13714. Both F13714 and NLX-101 increased the number of newborn neurons in the hippocampi of aged rats. These findings provide a rationale for targeting post-synaptic 5-HT1A as a treatment for cognitive deficits related to aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Pazinatto Aguiar
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Lígia Mendes Soares
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | | | - Humberto Milani
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Schepers M, Paes D, Tiane A, Rombaut B, Piccart E, van Veggel L, Gervois P, Wolfs E, Lambrichts I, Brullo C, Bruno O, Fedele E, Ricciarelli R, Ffrench-Constant C, Bechler ME, van Schaik P, Baron W, Lefevere E, Wasner K, Grünewald A, Verfaillie C, Baeten P, Broux B, Wieringa P, Hellings N, Prickaerts J, Vanmierlo T. Selective PDE4 subtype inhibition provides new opportunities to intervene in neuroinflammatory versus myelin damaging hallmarks of multiple sclerosis. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 109:1-22. [PMID: 36584795 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by focal inflammatory lesions and prominent demyelination. Even though the currently available therapies are effective in treating the initial stages of disease, they are unable to halt or reverse disease progression into the chronic progressive stage. Thus far, no repair-inducing treatments are available for progressive MS patients. Hence, there is an urgent need for the development of new therapeutic strategies either targeting the destructive immunological demyelination or boosting endogenous repair mechanisms. Using in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models, we demonstrate that selective inhibition of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), a family of enzymes that hydrolyzes and inactivates cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), reduces inflammation and promotes myelin repair. More specifically, we segregated the myelination-promoting and anti-inflammatory effects into a PDE4D- and PDE4B-dependent process respectively. We show that inhibition of PDE4D boosts oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPC) differentiation and enhances (re)myelination of both murine OPCs and human iPSC-derived OPCs. In addition, PDE4D inhibition promotes in vivo remyelination in the cuprizone model, which is accompanied by improved spatial memory and reduced visual evoked potential latency times. We further identified that PDE4B-specific inhibition exerts anti-inflammatory effects since it lowers in vitro monocytic nitric oxide (NO) production and improves in vivo neurological scores during the early phase of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). In contrast to the pan PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast, the therapeutic dose of both the PDE4B-specific inhibitor A33 and the PDE4D-specific inhibitor Gebr32a did not trigger emesis-like side effects in rodents. Finally, we report distinct PDE4D isoform expression patterns in human area postrema neurons and human oligodendroglia lineage cells. Using the CRISPR-Cas9 system, we confirmed that pde4d1/2 and pde4d6 are the key targets to induce OPC differentiation. Collectively, these data demonstrate that gene specific PDE4 inhibitors have potential as novel therapeutic agents for targeting the distinct disease processes of MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Schepers
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands; University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Dean Paes
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Assia Tiane
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands; University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Piccart
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Lieve van Veggel
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands; University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Pascal Gervois
- Department of Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Esther Wolfs
- Department of Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Department of Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Chiara Brullo
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Olga Bruno
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Ernesto Fedele
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Genova, Genova, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Roberta Ricciarelli
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy; Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of General Pathology, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Charles Ffrench-Constant
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine and MS Society Edinburgh Centre, Edinburgh bioQuarter, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Marie E Bechler
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Pauline van Schaik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wia Baron
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Evy Lefevere
- Rewind Therapeutics NV, Gaston Geenslaan 2, B-3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kobi Wasner
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Anne Grünewald
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Catherine Verfaillie
- Stem Cell Institute, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paulien Baeten
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium; Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Bieke Broux
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium; Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Paul Wieringa
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Complex Tissue Regeneration department, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Niels Hellings
- University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium; Department of Immunology and Infection, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands; University MS Center (UMSC) Hasselt-Pelt, Hasselt, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Waltrick APF, da Silva ACF, de Mattos BA, Chaves YC, de Oliveira RMW, Prickaerts J, Zanoveli JM. Long-term treatment with roflumilast improves learning of fear extinction memory and anxiety-like response in a type-1 diabetes mellitus animal model. Behav Brain Res 2023; 439:114217. [PMID: 36400237 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.114217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic encephalopathy is related to serious damage to the Central Nervous System leading to several disturbances in memory processing and emotions. It is known that the cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) responsive element-binding protein (CREB) pathway participates in neuronal plasticity and prevention of neuroinflammation, as well as the mediation of learning/memory processes and emotions in brain areas such as the hippocampus (HIP) and prefrontal cortex (PFC). We aimed to investigate the effect of acute (one injection) and long-term treatment (21 days) with roflumilast (ROF; i.p.; 0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.1 mg/kg), a drug able to inhibit the enzyme phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4) responsible for cAMP hydrolysis, on parameters related to the acquisition of fear extinction memory and anxiety-like responses in animals with type-1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) induced through one injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg; ip; STZ animals). When we performed acute treatment, no difference was observed between all the groups when resubmitted to the same context paired with an aversive stimulus (footshock) or to a neutral context. In contrast, long-term treatment was able to improve learning of extinction fear memory and discriminating between a conditioned and neutral context. Moreover, this treatment decreased the pronounced anxiety-like response of STZ animals. In addition, there was an increase in the product of the CREB signaling pathway, the pro brain-derived neurotrophic factor, in the HIP and PFC of these animals. The treatment did not impair glycemic control, whereas it decreased the animal's blood glucose levels. To conclude, these findings suggest that ROF treatment repositioning has potential for future translational investigations involving diabetic patients considering its beneficial effects on emotional processes related to fear memory and anxiety, in addition to improvement of glycemic control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Farias Waltrick
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Sciences Building, Federal University of Paraná, Street Coronel Francisco H dos Santos S/N, P.O. Box 19031, Curitiba, PR 81540-990, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Felipe da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Sciences Building, Federal University of Paraná, Street Coronel Francisco H dos Santos S/N, P.O. Box 19031, Curitiba, PR 81540-990, Brazil
| | | | - Yane Costa Chaves
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Sciences Building, Federal University of Paraná, Street Coronel Francisco H dos Santos S/N, P.O. Box 19031, Curitiba, PR 81540-990, Brazil
| | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, University of Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Janaína Menezes Zanoveli
- Department of Pharmacology, Biological Sciences Building, Federal University of Paraná, Street Coronel Francisco H dos Santos S/N, P.O. Box 19031, Curitiba, PR 81540-990, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
van den Hove D, Vanmierlo T, Koulousakis P, Tiane A, Hellings N, Prickaerts J. A perspective on causality assessment in epigenetic research on neurodegenerative disorders. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:331-332. [PMID: 35900421 PMCID: PMC9396512 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.343898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
15
|
Koulousakis P, Willems E, Schepers M, Rombaut B, Prickaerts J, Vanmierlo T, van den Hove D. Exogenous Oxytocin Administration Restores Memory in Female APP/PS1 Mice. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 96:1207-1219. [PMID: 37927260 PMCID: PMC10741313 DOI: 10.3233/jad-230657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current treatment options for Alzheimer's disease (AD) are limited, inefficient, and often have serious side effects. Oxytocin is a neuropeptide implicated in a variety of central processes, such as social and reproductive behaviors. Among others, it has garnered attention in various domains of psychiatric research, while its role in the development and course of neurodegenerative disorders like AD is rather unknown. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the role of exogenous oxytocin administration on memory, specifically in view of AD, as a potential novel treatment option. METHODS We describe a novel treatment approach by using a relatively low dose of long-term intranasal oxytocin treatment, to restore memory deficits in female APPswePS1dE9 mice. RESULTS Female APPswePS1dE9 mice treated with oxytocin showed increased spatial memory performance in the object location task and improved working memory in the Y-Maze, while indicating decreased sociability. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that oxytocin is able to reverse acquired cognitive deficits in female APPswePS1dE9 mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippos Koulousakis
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Emily Willems
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Daniel van den Hove
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Calis D, Hess M, Marchetta P, Singer W, Modro J, Nelissen E, Prickaerts J, Sandner P, Lukowski R, Ruth P, Knipper M, Rüttiger L. Acute deletion of the central MR/GR steroid receptor correlates with changes in LTP, auditory neural gain, and GC-A cGMP signaling. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1017761. [PMID: 36873102 PMCID: PMC9983609 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1017761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex mechanism by which stress can affect sensory processes such as hearing is still poorly understood. In a previous study, the mineralocorticoid (MR) and/or glucocorticoid receptor (GR) were deleted in frontal brain regions but not cochlear regions using a CaMKIIα-based tamoxifen-inducible Cre ERT2/loxP approach. These mice exhibit either a diminished (MRTMXcKO) or disinhibited (GRTMXcKO) auditory nerve activity. In the present study, we observed that mice differentially were (MRTMXcKO) or were not (GRTMXcKO) able to compensate for altered auditory nerve activity in the central auditory pathway. As previous findings demonstrated a link between central auditory compensation and memory-dependent adaptation processes, we analyzed hippocampal paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) and long-term potentiation (LTP). To determine which molecular mechanisms may impact differences in synaptic plasticity, we analyzed Arc/Arg3.1, known to control AMPA receptor trafficking, as well as regulators of tissue perfusion and energy consumption (NO-GC and GC-A). We observed that the changes in PPF of MRTMXcKOs mirrored the changes in their auditory nerve activity, whereas changes in the LTP of MRTMXcKOs and GRTMXcKOs mirrored instead the changes in their central compensation capacity. Enhanced GR expression levels in MRTMXcKOs suggest that MRs typically suppress GR expression. We observed that hippocampal LTP, GC-A mRNA expression levels, and ABR wave IV/I ratio were all enhanced in animals with elevated GR (MRTMXcKOs) but were all lower or not mobilized in animals with impaired GR expression levels (GRTMXcKOs and MRGRTMXcKOs). This suggests that GC-A may link LTP and auditory neural gain through GR-dependent processes. In addition, enhanced NO-GC expression levels in MR, GR, and MRGRTMXcKOs suggest that both receptors suppress NO-GC; on the other hand, elevated Arc/Arg3.1 levels in MRTMXcKOs and MRGRTMXcKOs but not GRTMXcKOs suggest that MR suppresses Arc/Arg3.1 expression levels. Conclusively, MR through GR inhibition may define the threshold for hemodynamic responses for LTP and auditory neural gain associated with GC-A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dila Calis
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Morgan Hess
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Philine Marchetta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Wibke Singer
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julian Modro
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer Health Care Pharmaceuticals, Global Drug Discovery Pharma Research Centre Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Robert Lukowski
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Ruth
- Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marlies Knipper
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Lukas Rüttiger
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tübingen Hearing Research Centre, Molecular Physiology of Hearing, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
van Hagen BTJ, van Goethem NP, Nelissen E, Paes D, Koymans K, van Hoof S, Schreiber R, Varney M, Newman-Tancredi A, Prickaerts J. Biased 5-HT 1A receptor agonists F13714 and NLX-101 differentially affect pattern separation and neuronal plasticity in rats after acute and chronic treatment. Mol Cell Neurosci 2022; 120:103719. [PMID: 35283305 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2022.103719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Pattern separation is a hippocampal process in which highly similar stimuli are recognized as separate representations, and deficits could lead to memory impairments in neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. The 5-HT1A receptor (5-HT1AR) is believed to be involved in these hippocampal pattern separation processes. However, in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN), the 5-HT1AR is expressed as a somatodendritic autoreceptor, negatively regulates serotonergic signaling, and could thereby counteract the effects of hippocampal postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors. Therefore, this study aims to identify how pre- and post-synaptic 5-HT1AR activity affects pattern separation. Object pattern separation (OPS) performance was measured in male Wistar rats after both acute and chronic treatment (i.p.) with 5-HT1AR biased agonists F13714 (0.0025 mg/kg acutely, 0.02 mg/kg/day chronically) or NLX-101 (0.08 mg/kg acutely, 0.32 mg/kg/day chronically), which preferentially activate autoreceptors or postsynaptic receptors respectively, for 14 days. Body temperature - a functional correlate of hypothalamic 5-HT1AR stimulation - was measured daily. Additionally, 5-HT1AR density (DRN) and plasticity markers (hippocampus) were assessed. Acute treatment with F13714 impaired OPS performance, whereas chronic treatment normalized this, and a drop in body temperature was found from day 4 onwards. NLX-101 enhanced OPS performance acutely and chronically, and caused an acute drop in body temperature. Chronic NLX-101 treatment increased doublecortin positive neurons in the dorsal hippocampus, while chronic treatment with F13714 resulted in a downregulation of 5-HT1A autoreceptors, which likely reversed the acute impairment in OPS performance. Chronic treatment with NLX-101 appears to have therapeutic potential to improve brain plasticity and OPS performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Britt T J van Hagen
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Nick P van Goethem
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Dean Paes
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Karin Koymans
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Scott van Hoof
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Rudy Schreiber
- Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Section Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mark Varney
- Neurolixis Inc., Dana Point, California, USA
| | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nelissen E, Possemis N, Van Goethem NP, Schepers M, Mulder-Jongen DAJ, Dietz L, Janssen W, Gerisch M, Hüser J, Sandner P, Vanmierlo T, Prickaerts J. The sGC stimulator BAY-747 and activator runcaciguat can enhance memory in vivo via differential hippocampal plasticity mechanisms. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3589. [PMID: 35246566 PMCID: PMC8897390 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07391-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) requires a heme-group bound in order to produce cGMP, a second messenger involved in memory formation, while heme-free sGC is inactive. Two compound classes can increase sGC activity: sGC stimulators acting on heme-bound sGC, and sGC activators acting on heme-free sGC. In this rodent study, we investigated the potential of the novel brain-penetrant sGC stimulator BAY-747 and sGC activator runcaciguat to enhance long-term memory and attenuate short-term memory deficits induced by the NOS-inhibitor L-NAME. Furthermore, hippocampal plasticity mechanisms were investigated. In vivo, oral administration of BAY-747 and runcaciguat to male Wistar rats enhanced memory acquisition in the object location task (OLT), while only BAY-747 reversed L-NAME induced memory impairments in the OLT. Ex vivo, both BAY-747 and runcaciguat enhanced hippocampal GluA1-containing AMPA receptor (AMPAR) trafficking in a chemical LTP model for memory acquisition using acute mouse hippocampal slices. In vivo only runcaciguat acted on the glutamatergic AMPAR system in hippocampal memory acquisition processes, while for BAY-747 the effects on the neurotrophic system were more pronounced as measured in male mice using western blot. Altogether this study shows that sGC stimulators and activators have potential as cognition enhancers, while the underlying plasticity mechanisms may determine disease-specific effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Nina Possemis
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nick P Van Goethem
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair Lab, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Danielle A J Mulder-Jongen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa Dietz
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Wiebke Janssen
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Michael Gerisch
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Jörg Hüser
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
- Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair Lab, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Vilhena ER, Bonato JM, Schepers M, Kunieda JKC, Milani H, Vanmierlo T, Prickaerts J, de Oliveira RMW. Positive effects of roflumilast on behavior, neuroinflammation, and white matter injury in mice with global cerebral ischemia. Behav Pharmacol 2021; 32:459-471. [PMID: 34320520 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) is a promising pharmacological strategy for the treatment of cerebral ischemic conditions. To increase the relevance and increase the translational value of preclinical studies, it is important to conduct experiments using different animal species and strains, different animal models, and to evaluate long-term functional outcomes after cerebral ischemia. In the present study, the effects of the selective PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast were evaluated in vivo and in vitro. Balb/c mice were subjected to bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) and tested during 21 days in multiple behavioral tasks to investigate the long-term effects of roflumilast on functional recovery. The effects of roflumilast were also investigated on hippocampal cell loss, white matter injury, and expression of neuroinflammatory markers. Roflumilast prevented cognitive and emotional deficits induced by BCCAO in mice. Roflumilast also prevented neurodegeneration and reduced the white matter damage in the brain of ischemic animals. Besides, roflumilast decreased Iba-1 (microglia marker) levels and increased Arginase-1 (Arg-1; microglia M2 phenotype marker) levels in the hippocampus of these mice. Likewise, roflumilast suppressed inducible nitric oxide synthase (microglia M1 phenotype marker) expression and increased Arg-1 levels in a primary mouse microglia culture. These findings support evidence that PDE4 inhibition by roflumilast might be beneficial in cerebral ischemic conditions. The neuroprotective effects of roflumilast appear to be mediated by a decrease in neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuella R Vilhena
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Jéssica M Bonato
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Neuroimmune Connect and Repair Lab., Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Juliana K C Kunieda
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Humberto Milani
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Neuroimmune Connect and Repair Lab., Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rúbia M W de Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nelissen E, Argyrousi EK, Van Goethem NP, Zhao F, Hines CDG, Swaminath G, Gerisch M, Hueser J, Sandner P, Prickaerts J. Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Stimulator Vericiguat Enhances Long-Term Memory in Rats without Altering Cerebral Blood Volume. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1047. [PMID: 34440254 PMCID: PMC8393324 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9081047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) is characterized by impairments in cerebral blood flow (CBF), endothelial function and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity. These processes are all physiologically regulated by the nitric oxide (NO)-soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)-cGMP signaling pathway. Additionally, cGMP signaling plays an important role in long-term potentiation (LTP) underlying memory formation. Therefore, targeting the NO-sGC-cGMP pathway may be a therapeutic strategy for treating VCI. Hence, in this study we investigated whether sGC stimulator vericiguat has potential as a cognitive enhancer. The effects of vericiguat on long-term memory were measured in rats using an object location task. Due to the low brain-penetrance of vericiguat found in this study, it was investigated whether in the absence of BBB limitations, vericiguat enhanced hippocampal plasticity using an ex vivo memory acquisition-like chemical LTP model. Finally, peripheral effects were measured by means of blood pressure and cerebral blood volume. Vericiguat successfully enhanced long-term memory and increased hippocampal plasticity via enhanced translocation of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptors to the cell membrane, while blood pressure and cerebral blood volume were unaltered. Although the memory enhancing effects in this study are likely due to peripheral effects on the cerebral microvasculature, sGC stimulation may provide a new therapeutic strategy for treating VCI, especially when BBB integrity is reduced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (E.N.); (E.K.A.); (N.P.V.G.)
| | - Elentina K. Argyrousi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (E.N.); (E.K.A.); (N.P.V.G.)
| | - Nick P. Van Goethem
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (E.N.); (E.K.A.); (N.P.V.G.)
| | - Fuqiang Zhao
- Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ 07033, USA; (F.Z.); (C.D.G.H.)
| | | | | | - Michael Gerisch
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113 Wuppertal, Germany; (M.G.); (J.H.); (P.S.)
| | - Joerg Hueser
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113 Wuppertal, Germany; (M.G.); (J.H.); (P.S.)
| | - Peter Sandner
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, 42113 Wuppertal, Germany; (M.G.); (J.H.); (P.S.)
- Hannover Medical School, Institute for Pharmacology, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (E.N.); (E.K.A.); (N.P.V.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Homberg JR, Adan RAH, Alenina N, Asiminas A, Bader M, Beckers T, Begg DP, Blokland A, Burger ME, van Dijk G, Eisel ULM, Elgersma Y, Englitz B, Fernandez-Ruiz A, Fitzsimons CP, van Dam AM, Gass P, Grandjean J, Havekes R, Henckens MJAG, Herden C, Hut RA, Jarrett W, Jeffrey K, Jezova D, Kalsbeek A, Kamermans M, Kas MJ, Kasri NN, Kiliaan AJ, Kolk SM, Korosi A, Korte SM, Kozicz T, Kushner SA, Leech K, Lesch KP, Lesscher H, Lucassen PJ, Luthi A, Ma L, Mallien AS, Meerlo P, Mejias JF, Meye FJ, Mitchell AS, Mul JD, Olcese U, González AO, Olivier JDA, Pasqualetti M, Pennartz CMA, Popik P, Prickaerts J, de la Prida LM, Ribeiro S, Roozendaal B, Rossato JI, Salari AA, Schoemaker RG, Smit AB, Vanderschuren LJMJ, Takeuchi T, van der Veen R, Smidt MP, Vyazovskiy VV, Wiesmann M, Wierenga CJ, Williams B, Willuhn I, Wöhr M, Wolvekamp M, van der Zee EA, Genzel L. The continued need for animals to advance brain research. Neuron 2021; 109:2374-2379. [PMID: 34352213 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Policymakers aim to move toward animal-free alternatives for scientific research and have introduced very strict regulations for animal research. We argue that, for neuroscience research, until viable and translational alternatives become available and the value of these alternatives has been proven, the use of animals should not be compromised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Roger A H Adan
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Natalia Alenina
- The Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Antonis Asiminas
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK; Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Bader
- The Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Tom Beckers
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute and Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Denovan P Begg
- School of Psychology, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Gertjan van Dijk
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrich L M Eisel
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ype Elgersma
- Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Carlos P Fitzsimons
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anne-Marie van Dam
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center, Free University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Gass
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim Faculty, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Robbert Havekes
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Christiane Herden
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Gießen, Gießen, Germany; Center of Mind Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University of Marburg and Justus-Liebig-University Gießen, Marburg, Germany
| | - Roelof A Hut
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Kate Jeffrey
- Institute of Behavioural Neuroscience, University College London, London WC1H 0AP, UK
| | - Daniela Jezova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Andries Kalsbeek
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten Kamermans
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martien J Kas
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Aniko Korosi
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S Mechiel Korte
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Kirk Leech
- European Animal Research Association, London, UK
| | - Klaus-Peter Lesch
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Center of Mental Health, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany; Laboratory of Psychiatric Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; Department of Neuropsychology and Psychiatry, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Heidi Lesscher
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Paul J Lucassen
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anita Luthi
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Liya Ma
- Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Anne S Mallien
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim Faculty, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Peter Meerlo
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jorge F Mejias
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frank J Meye
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Joram D Mul
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Umberto Olcese
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jocelien D A Olivier
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Cyriel M A Pennartz
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Piotr Popik
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków 31-343, Poland
| | | | - Liset M de la Prida
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sidarta Ribeiro
- Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Janine I Rossato
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Ali-Akbar Salari
- Salari Institute of Cognitive and Behavioral Disorders (SICBD), Karaj, Alborz, Iran
| | - Regien G Schoemaker
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - August B Smit
- Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Tomonori Takeuchi
- Danish Research Institute of Translational Neuroscience - DANDRITE, Nordic-EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Rixt van der Veen
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marten P Smidt
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Corette J Wierenga
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ingo Willuhn
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Markus Wöhr
- Center of Mind Brain and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-University of Marburg and Justus-Liebig-University Gießen, Marburg, Germany; Philipps-University of Marburg, Faculty of Psychology, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience, Marburg, Germany; KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute and Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Eddy A van der Zee
- Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lisa Genzel
- Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Aguiar RPD, Newman-Tancredi A, Prickaerts J, Oliveira RMWD. The 5-HT 1A receptor as a serotonergic target for neuroprotection in cerebral ischemia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 109:110210. [PMID: 33333136 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral ischemia due to stroke or cardiac arrest greatly affects daily functioning and the quality of life of patients and has a high socioeconomic impact due to the surge in their prevalence. Advances in the identification of an effective pharmacotherapy to promote neuroprotection and recovery after a cerebral ischemic insult are, however, limited. The serotonin 1A (5-HT1A) receptor has been implicated in the regulation of several brain functions, including mood, emotions, memory, and neuroplasticity, all of which are deleteriously affected by cerebral ischemia. This review focuses on the specific roles and mechanisms of 5-HT1A receptors in neuroprotection in experimental models of cerebral ischemia. We present experimental evidence that 5-HT1A receptor agonists can prevent neuronal damage and promote functional recovery induced by focal and transient global ischemia in rodents. However, indiscriminate activation of pre-and postsynaptic by non-biased 5-HT1A receptor agonists may be a limiting factor in the anti-ischemic clinical efficacy of these compounds since 5-HT1A receptors in different brain regions can mediate diverging or even contradictory responses. Current insights are presented into the 'biased' 5-HT1A post-synaptic heteroreceptor agonist NLX-101 (also known as F15599), a compound that preferentially and potently stimulates postsynaptic cortical pyramidal neurons without inhibiting firing of serotoninergic neurons, as a potential strategy providing neuroprotection in cerebral ischemic conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Pazinatto de Aguiar
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rúbia Maria Weffort de Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Paes D, Schepers M, Rombaut B, van den Hove D, Vanmierlo T, Prickaerts J. The Molecular Biology of Phosphodiesterase 4 Enzymes as Pharmacological Targets: An Interplay of Isoforms, Conformational States, and Inhibitors. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:1016-1049. [PMID: 34233947 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) enzyme family plays a pivotal role in regulating levels of the second messenger cAMP. Consequently, PDE4 inhibitors have been investigated as a therapeutic strategy to enhance cAMP signaling in a broad range of diseases, including several types of cancers, as well as in various neurologic, dermatological, and inflammatory diseases. Despite their widespread therapeutic potential, the progression of PDE4 inhibitors into the clinic has been hampered because of their related relatively small therapeutic window, which increases the chance of producing adverse side effects. Interestingly, the PDE4 enzyme family consists of several subtypes and isoforms that can be modified post-translationally or can engage in specific protein-protein interactions to yield a variety of conformational states. Inhibition of specific PDE4 subtypes, isoforms, or conformational states may lead to more precise effects and hence improve the safety profile of PDE4 inhibition. In this review, we provide an overview of the variety of PDE4 isoforms and how their activity and inhibition is influenced by post-translational modifications and interactions with partner proteins. Furthermore, we describe the importance of screening potential PDE4 inhibitors in view of different PDE4 subtypes, isoforms, and conformational states rather than testing compounds directed toward a specific PDE4 catalytic domain. Lastly, potential mechanisms underlying PDE4-mediated adverse effects are outlined. In this review, we illustrate that PDE4 inhibitors retain their therapeutic potential in myriad diseases, but target identification should be more precise to establish selective inhibition of disease-affected PDE4 isoforms while avoiding isoforms involved in adverse effects. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Although the PDE4 enzyme family is a therapeutic target in an extensive range of disorders, clinical use of PDE4 inhibitors has been hindered because of the adverse side effects. This review elaborately shows that safer and more effective PDE4 targeting is possible by characterizing 1) which PDE4 subtypes and isoforms exist, 2) how PDE4 isoforms can adopt specific conformations upon post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions, and 3) which PDE4 inhibitors can selectively bind specific PDE4 subtypes, isoforms, and/or conformations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dean Paes
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands (D.P, M.S., B.R., D.v.d.H., T.V., J.P.); Department of Neuroscience, Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium (D.P., M.S., B.R., T.V.); and Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (D.v.d.H.)
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands (D.P, M.S., B.R., D.v.d.H., T.V., J.P.); Department of Neuroscience, Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium (D.P., M.S., B.R., T.V.); and Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (D.v.d.H.)
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands (D.P, M.S., B.R., D.v.d.H., T.V., J.P.); Department of Neuroscience, Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium (D.P., M.S., B.R., T.V.); and Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (D.v.d.H.)
| | - Daniel van den Hove
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands (D.P, M.S., B.R., D.v.d.H., T.V., J.P.); Department of Neuroscience, Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium (D.P., M.S., B.R., T.V.); and Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (D.v.d.H.)
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands (D.P, M.S., B.R., D.v.d.H., T.V., J.P.); Department of Neuroscience, Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium (D.P., M.S., B.R., T.V.); and Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (D.v.d.H.)
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, EURON, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands (D.P, M.S., B.R., D.v.d.H., T.V., J.P.); Department of Neuroscience, Neuro-Immune Connect and Repair laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium (D.P., M.S., B.R., T.V.); and Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (D.v.d.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kanazawa LKS, Radulski DR, Pereira GS, Prickaerts J, Schwarting RKW, Acco A, Andreatini R. Andrographolide blocks 50-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations, hyperlocomotion and oxidative stress in an animal model of mania. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 139:91-98. [PMID: 34058655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In rats, lisdexamfetamine (LDX) induces manic-like behaviors such as hyperlocomotion and increases in appetitive 50-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations (USV), which are prevented by antimanic drugs, such as lithium. Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) and antioxidant activity have been associated with antimanic effects. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible antimanic-like effects of andrographolide (ANDRO), a GSK3β inhibitor, on LDX-induced hyperlocomotion and 50-kHz USV increases. In addition, the effect of ANDRO was studied on LDX-induced oxidative stress. Lithium was used as positive control. Adult Wistar rats were treated with vehicle, lithium (100 mg/kg i.p., daily) or ANDRO (2 mg/kg i.p., 3 times a week) for 21 days. On the test day, either 10 mg/kg LDX or saline was administered i.p. and USV and locomotor activity were recorded. LDX administration increased the number of 50-kHz calls, as well as locomotor activity. Repeated treatment with lithium or ANDRO prevented these effects of LDX on 50-kHz USV and locomotor activity. LDX increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels in rat striatum and both lithium and ANDRO prevented this effect. LPO levels in rat striatum were positively correlated with increases in 50-kHz USV emission as well as hyperlocomotion. In conclusion, the present results indicate that ANDRO has antimanic-like effects, which may be mediated by its antioxidant properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luiz K S Kanazawa
- Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of the Central Nervous System, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81540-990, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Débora R Radulski
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Metabolism, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81540-990, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Gabriela S Pereira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Metabolism, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81540-990, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rainer K W Schwarting
- Behavioural Neuroscience, Experimental and Biological Psychology, and Center for Mind, Brain, and Behavior (CMBB), Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, 35032, Germany
| | - Alexandra Acco
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Metabolism, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81540-990, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Roberto Andreatini
- Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of the Central Nervous System, Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81540-990, Curitiba, PR, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ponsaerts L, Alders L, Schepers M, de Oliveira RMW, Prickaerts J, Vanmierlo T, Bronckaers A. Neuroinflammation in Ischemic Stroke: Inhibition of cAMP-Specific Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) to the Rescue. Biomedicines 2021; 9:703. [PMID: 34206420 PMCID: PMC8301462 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is caused by a thromboembolic occlusion of a major cerebral artery, with the impaired blood flow triggering neuroinflammation and subsequent neuronal damage. Both the innate immune system (e.g., neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages) in the acute ischemic stroke phase and the adaptive immune system (e.g., T cells, B cells) in the chronic phase contribute to this neuroinflammatory process. Considering that the available therapeutic strategies are insufficiently successful, there is an urgent need for novel treatment options. It has been shown that increasing cAMP levels lowers neuroinflammation. By inhibiting cAMP-specific phosphodiesterases (PDEs), i.e., PDE4, 7, and 8, neuroinflammation can be tempered through elevating cAMP levels and, thereby, this can induce an improved functional recovery. This review discusses recent preclinical findings, clinical implications, and future perspectives of cAMP-specific PDE inhibition as a novel research interest for the treatment of ischemic stroke. In particular, PDE4 inhibition has been extensively studied, and is promising for the treatment of acute neuroinflammation following a stroke, whereas PDE7 and 8 inhibition more target the T cell component. In addition, more targeted PDE4 gene inhibition, or combined PDE4 and PDE7 or 8 inhibition, requires more extensive research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ponsaerts
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium; (L.P.); (L.A.); (M.S.)
- European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Lotte Alders
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium; (L.P.); (L.A.); (M.S.)
- European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium; (L.P.); (L.A.); (M.S.)
- European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium; (L.P.); (L.A.); (M.S.)
- European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies Bronckaers
- Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium; (L.P.); (L.A.); (M.S.)
- European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Paes D, Xie K, Wheeler DG, Zook D, Prickaerts J, Peters M. Inhibition of PDE2 and PDE4 synergistically improves memory consolidation processes. Neuropharmacology 2021; 184:108414. [PMID: 33249120 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterases (PDE) are the only enzymes that degrade cAMP and cGMP which are second messengers crucial to memory consolidation. Different PDE inhibitors have been developed and tested for their memory-enhancing potential, but the occurrence of side effects has hampered clinical progression. As separate inhibition of the PDE2 and PDE4 enzyme family has been shown to enhance memory, we investigated whether concurrent treatment with a PDE2 and PDE4 inhibitor can have synergistic effects on memory consolidation processes. We found that combined administration of PF-999 (PDE2 inhibitor) and roflumilast (PDE4 inhibitor) increases the phosphorylation of the AMPA receptor subunit GluR1 and induces CRE-mediated gene expression. Moreover, when combined sub-effective and effective doses of PF-999 and roflumilast were administered after learning, time-dependent forgetting was abolished in an object location memory task. Pharmacokinetic assessment indicated that combined treatment does not alter exposure of the individual compounds. Taken together, these findings suggest that combined PDE2 and PDE4 inhibition has synergistic effects on memory consolidation processes at sub-effective doses, which could therefore provide a therapeutic strategy with an improved safety profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dean Paes
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229, ER Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Keqiang Xie
- In Vitro Pharmacology, Dart Neuroscience, LLC, 12278 Scripps Summit Drive, San Diego, CA, 92131, USA
| | - Damian G Wheeler
- Target Discovery & Behavioral Pharmacology, Dart Neuroscience, LLC, 12278 Scripps Summit Drive, San Diego, CA, 92131, USA
| | - Douglas Zook
- DMPK, Dart Neuroscience, LLC, 12278 Scripps Summit Drive, San Diego, CA, 92131, USA
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229, ER Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marco Peters
- Target Discovery & Behavioral Pharmacology, Dart Neuroscience, LLC, 12278 Scripps Summit Drive, San Diego, CA, 92131, USA; Neurobiology and Behavior & Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California Irvine, 213 Qureshey Research Lab, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bonato JM, Meyer E, de Mendonça PSB, Milani H, Prickaerts J, Weffort de Oliveira RM. Roflumilast protects against spatial memory impairments and exerts anti-inflammatory effects after transient global cerebral ischemia. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:1171-1188. [PMID: 33340424 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors have been shown to present beneficial effects in cerebral ischemic injury because of their ability to improve cognition and target different phases and mechanisms of cerebral ischemia, including apoptosis, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and inflammation. The present study investigated whether repeated treatment with the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast rescued memory loss and attenuated neuroinflammation in rats following transient global cerebral ischemia (TGCI). TGCI caused memory impairments, neuronal loss (reflected by Neuronal nuclei (NeuN) immunoreactivity), and compensatory neurogenesis (reflected by doublecortin (DCX) immunoreactivity) in the hippocampus. Also, increases in the protein expression of the phosphorylated response element-binding protein (pCREB) and inflammatory markers such as the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1), were detected in the hippocampus in TGCI rats. Repeated treatment with roflumilast (0.003 and 0.01 mg/kg) prevented spatial memory deficits without promoting hippocampal protection in ischemic animals. Roflumilast increased the levels of pCREB, arginase-1, interleukin (IL) 4, and IL-10 in the hippocampus 21 days after TGCI. These data suggest a protective effect of roflumilast against functional sequelae of cerebral ischemia, which might be related to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica M Bonato
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Maringá, Brazil
| | - Erika Meyer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Maringá, Brazil
| | | | - Humberto Milani
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Maringá, Brazil
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Montalto G, Caudano F, Sturla L, Bruzzone S, Salis A, Damonte G, Prickaerts J, Fedele E, Ricciarelli R. Protein kinase G phosphorylates the Alzheimer's disease-associated tau protein at distinct Ser/Thr sites. Biofactors 2021; 47:126-134. [PMID: 33469985 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Intraneuronal accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau is a pathological hallmark of several neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. Phosphorylation plays a crucial role in modulating the tau-microtubule interaction and the ability of the protein to aggregate, but despite efforts during the past decades, the real identity of the kynases involved in vivo remains uncertain. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate that the cGMP-dependent protein kinase G (PKG) phosphorylates tau in both in vitro and in vivo models. More intriguingly, we provide evidence that PKG phosphorylates tau at Ser214 but not at Ser202, a condition that could reduce the pathological aggregation of the protein shifting tau from a pro-aggregant to a neuroprotective anti-aggregant conformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Montalto
- Section of General Pathology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Caudano
- Section of General Pathology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Sturla
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, Center for Excellence in Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Santina Bruzzone
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, Center for Excellence in Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Annalisa Salis
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, Center for Excellence in Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Damonte
- Section of Biochemistry, Department of Experimental Medicine, Center for Excellence in Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatric and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ernesto Fedele
- Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Roberta Ricciarelli
- Section of General Pathology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rombaut B, Kessels S, Schepers M, Tiane A, Paes D, Solomina Y, Piccart E, Hove DVD, Brône B, Prickaerts J, Vanmierlo T. PDE inhibition in distinct cell types to reclaim the balance of synaptic plasticity. Theranostics 2021; 11:2080-2097. [PMID: 33500712 PMCID: PMC7797685 DOI: 10.7150/thno.50701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Synapses are the functional units of the brain. They form specific contact points that drive neuronal communication and are highly plastic in their strength, density, and shape. A carefully orchestrated balance between synaptogenesis and synaptic pruning, i.e., the elimination of weak or redundant synapses, ensures adequate synaptic density. An imbalance between these two processes lies at the basis of multiple neuropathologies. Recent evidence has highlighted the importance of glia-neuron interactions in the synaptic unit, emphasized by glial phagocytosis of synapses and local excretion of inflammatory mediators. These findings warrant a closer look into the molecular basis of cell-signaling pathways in the different brain cells that are related to synaptic plasticity. In neurons, intracellular second messengers, such as cyclic guanosine or adenosine monophosphate (cGMP and cAMP, respectively), are known mediators of synaptic homeostasis and plasticity. Increased levels of these second messengers in glial cells slow down inflammation and neurodegenerative processes. These multi-faceted effects provide the opportunity to counteract excessive synapse loss by targeting cGMP and cAMP pathways in multiple cell types. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are specialized degraders of these second messengers, rendering them attractive targets to combat the detrimental effects of neurological disorders. Cellular and subcellular compartmentalization of the specific isoforms of PDEs leads to divergent downstream effects for these enzymes in the various central nervous system resident cell types. This review provides a detailed overview on the role of PDEs and their inhibition in the context of glia-neuron interactions in different neuropathologies characterized by synapse loss. In doing so, it provides a framework to support future research towards finding combinational therapy for specific neuropathologies.
Collapse
|
30
|
Genzel L, Adan R, Berns A, van den Beucken JJJP, Blokland A, Boddeke EHWGM, Bogers WM, Bontrop R, Bulthuis R, Bousema T, Clevers H, Coenen TCJJ, van Dam AM, Deen PMT, van Dijk KW, Eggen BJL, Elgersma Y, Erdogan I, Englitz B, Fentener van Vlissingen JM, la Fleur S, Fouchier R, Fitzsimons CP, Frieling W, Haagmans B, Heesters BA, Henckens MJAG, Herfst S, Hol E, van den Hove D, de Jonge MI, Jonkers J, Joosten LAB, Kalsbeek A, Kamermans M, Kampinga HH, Kas MJ, Keijer J, Kersten S, Kiliaan AJ, Kooij TWA, Kooijman S, Koopman WJH, Korosi A, Krugers HJ, Kuiken T, Kushner SA, Langermans JAM, Lesscher HMB, Lucassen PJ, Lutgens E, Netea MG, Noldus LPJJ, van der Meer JWM, Meye FJ, Mul JD, van Oers K, Olivier JDA, Pasterkamp RJ, Philippens IHCHM, Prickaerts J, Pollux BJA, Rensen PCN, van Rheenen J, van Rij RP, Ritsma L, Rockx BHG, Roozendaal B, van Schothorst EM, Stittelaar K, Stockhofe N, Swaab DF, de Swart RL, Vanderschuren LJMJ, de Vries TJ, de Vrij F, van Wezel R, Wierenga CJ, Wiesmann M, Willuhn I, de Zeeuw CI, Homberg JR. How the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the necessity of animal research. Curr Biol 2020; 30:4328. [PMID: 33142090 PMCID: PMC7605800 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
31
|
Genzel L, Adan R, Berns A, van den Beucken JJJP, Blokland A, Boddeke EHWGM, Bogers WM, Bontrop R, Bulthuis R, Bousema T, Clevers H, Coenen TCJJ, van Dam AM, Deen PMT, van Dijk KW, Eggen BJL, Elgersma Y, Erdogan I, Englitz B, Fentener van Vlissingen JM, la Fleur S, Fouchier R, Fitzsimons CP, Frieling W, Haagmans B, Heesters BA, Henckens MJAG, Herfst S, Hol E, van den Hove D, de Jonge MI, Jonkers J, Joosten LAB, Kalsbeek A, Kamermans M, Kampinga HH, Kas MJ, Keijer JA, Kersten S, Kiliaan AJ, Kooij TWA, Kooijman S, Koopman WJH, Korosi A, Krugers HJ, Kuiken T, Kushner SA, Langermans JAM, Lesscher HMB, Lucassen PJ, Lutgens E, Netea MG, Noldus LPJJ, van der Meer JWM, Meye FJ, Mul JD, van Oers K, Olivier JDA, Pasterkamp RJ, Philippens IHCHM, Prickaerts J, Pollux BJA, Rensen PCN, van Rheenen J, van Rij RP, Ritsma L, Rockx BHG, Roozendaal B, van Schothorst EM, Stittelaar K, Stockhofe N, Swaab DF, de Swart RL, Vanderschuren LJMJ, de Vries TJ, de Vrij F, van Wezel R, Wierenga CJ, Wiesmann M, Willuhn I, de Zeeuw CI, Homberg JR. How the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the necessity of animal research. Curr Biol 2020; 30:R1014-R1018. [PMID: 32961149 PMCID: PMC7416712 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recently, a petition was offered to the European Commission calling for an immediate ban on animal testing. Although a Europe-wide moratorium on the use of animals in science is not yet possible, there has been a push by the non-scientific community and politicians for a rapid transition to animal-free innovations. Although there are benefits for both animal welfare and researchers, advances on alternative methods have not progressed enough to be able to replace animal research in the foreseeable future. This trend has led first and foremost to a substantial increase in the administrative burden and hurdles required to make timely advances in research and treatments for human and animal diseases. The current COVID-19 pandemic clearly highlights how much we actually rely on animal research. COVID-19 affects several organs and systems, and the various animal-free alternatives currently available do not come close to this complexity. In this Essay, we therefore argue that the use of animals is essential for the advancement of human and veterinary health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Genzel
- Radboud University, 6525 XZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Roger Adan
- University Medical Center, Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anton Berns
- Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Arjan Blokland
- Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Erik H W G M Boddeke
- University of Groningen, 9712 CP Groningen, The Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Willy M Bogers
- Biomedical Primate Research Centre, 2288 GJ Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald Bontrop
- Biomedical Primate Research Centre, 2288 GJ Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - R Bulthuis
- Metris BV, 2132 NG Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Clevers
- University Medical Center, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Anne-Marie van Dam
- Amsterdam UMC, location VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - K W van Dijk
- Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Bart J L Eggen
- University of Groningen, 9712 CP Groningen, The Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ype Elgersma
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Izel Erdogan
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Susanne la Fleur
- Amsterdam UMC, location VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron Fouchier
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carlos P Fitzsimons
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bart Haagmans
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Balthasar A Heesters
- Amsterdam UMC, location VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sander Herfst
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elly Hol
- University Medical Center, Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marien I de Jonge
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Jonkers
- Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Oncode Institute, 3521 AL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Leo A B Joosten
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Andries Kalsbeek
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Kamermans
- Amsterdam UMC, location VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harm H Kampinga
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martien J Kas
- University of Groningen, 9712 CP Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J Aap Keijer
- Wageningen University, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Kersten
- Wageningen University, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda J Kiliaan
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Taco W A Kooij
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Kooijman
- Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Aniko Korosi
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harm J Krugers
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thijs Kuiken
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven A Kushner
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan A M Langermans
- Biomedical Primate Research Centre, 2288 GJ Rijswijk, The Netherlands; Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Paul J Lucassen
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Lutgens
- Amsterdam UMC, location VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mihai G Netea
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Frank J Meye
- University Medical Center, Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joram D Mul
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kees van Oers
- Wageningen University, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands; Netherlands Institute of Ecology(NIOO-KNAW), 6700 AB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - R Jeroen Pasterkamp
- University Medical Center, Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Maastricht University, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - B J A Pollux
- Wageningen University, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Ronald P van Rij
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Laila Ritsma
- Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Barry H G Rockx
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Benno Roozendaal
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - K Stittelaar
- Viroclinics Xplore, 5374 RE Schaijk, The Netherlands
| | - Norbert Stockhofe
- Wageningen University, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands; Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, 8221 RA Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Dick F Swaab
- Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rik L de Swart
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Taco J de Vries
- Amsterdam UMC, location VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Femke de Vrij
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Ingo Willuhn
- Amsterdam UMC, location VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chris I de Zeeuw
- Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith R Homberg
- Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kerkhofs D, van Hagen BT, Milanova IV, Schell KJ, van Essen H, Wijnands E, Goossens P, Blankesteijn WM, Unger T, Prickaerts J, Biessen EA, van Oostenbrugge RJ, Foulquier S. Pharmacological depletion of microglia and perivascular macrophages prevents Vascular Cognitive Impairment in Ang II-induced hypertension. Am J Cancer Res 2020; 10:9512-9527. [PMID: 32863942 PMCID: PMC7449902 DOI: 10.7150/thno.44394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cerebral small vessel disease, the most prevalent cause of vascular cognitive impairment. As we have shown, hypertension induced by a prolonged Angiotensin II infusion is associated with increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), chronic activation of microglia and myelin loss. In this study we therefore aim to determine the contribution of microglia to hypertension-induced cognitive impairment in an experimental hypertension model by a pharmacological depletion approach. Methods: For this study, adult Cx3Cr1gfp/wtxThy1yfp/0 reporter mice were infused for 12 weeks with Angiotensin II or saline and subgroups were treated with PLX5622, a highly selective CSF1R tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured via tail-cuff. Short- and long-term spatial memory was assessed during an Object Location task and a Morris Water Maze task (MWM). Microglia depletion efficacy was assessed by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. BBB leakages, microglia phenotype and myelin integrity were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results: SBP, heart weight and carotid pulsatility were increased by Ang II and were not affected by PLX5622. Short-term memory was significantly impaired in Ang II hypertensive mice, and partly prevented in Ang II mice treated with PLX5622. Histological and flow cytometry analysis revealed almost complete ablation of microglia and a 60% depletion of brain resident perivascular macrophages upon CSF1R inhibition. Number and size of BBB leakages were increased in Ang II hypertensive mice, but not altered by PLX5622 treatment. Microglia acquired a pro-inflammatory phenotype at the site of BBB leakages in both Saline and Ang II mice and were successfully depleted by PLX5622. There was however no significant change in myelin integrity at the site of leakages. Conclusion: Our results show that depletion of microglia and PVMs, by CSF1R inhibition prevents short-term memory impairment in Ang II induced hypertensive mice. We suggest this beneficial effect is mediated by the major decrease of pro-inflammatory microglia within BBB leakages. This novel finding supports the critical role of brain immune cells in the pathogenesis of hypertension-related cognitive impairment. An adequate modulation of microglia /PVM density and phenotype may constitute a relevant approach to prevent and/or limit the progression of vascular cognitive impairment.
Collapse
|
33
|
Magro Dos Reis I, Houben T, Oligschläger Y, Bücken L, Steinbusch H, Cassiman D, Lütjohann D, Westerterp M, Prickaerts J, Plat J, Shiri-Sverdlov R. Dietary plant stanol ester supplementation reduces peripheral symptoms in a mouse model of Niemann-Pick type C1 disease. J Lipid Res 2020; 61:830-839. [PMID: 32291331 PMCID: PMC7269767 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.ra120000632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Niemann-Pick type C (NPC)1 disease is a rare genetic condition in which the function of the lysosomal cholesterol transporter NPC1 protein is impaired. Consequently, sphingolipids and cholesterol accumulate in lysosomes of all tissues, triggering a cascade of pathological events that culminate in severe systemic and neurological symptoms. Lysosomal cholesterol accumulation is also a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis and NASH. In these two metabolic diseases, the administration of plant stanol esters has been shown to ameliorate cellular cholesterol accumulation and inflammation. Given the overlap of pathological mechanisms among atherosclerosis, NASH, and NPC1 disease, we sought to investigate whether dietary supplementation with plant stanol esters improves the peripheral features of NPC1 disease. To this end, we used an NPC1 murine model featuring a Npc1-null allele (Npc1nih ), creating a dysfunctional NPC1 protein. Npc1nih mice were fed a 2% or 6% plant stanol ester-enriched diet over the course of 5 weeks. During this period, hepatic and blood lipid and inflammatory profiles were assessed. Npc1nih mice fed the plant stanol-enriched diet exhibited lower hepatic cholesterol accumulation, damage, and inflammation than regular chow-fed Npc1nih mice. Moreover, plant stanol consumption shifted circulating T-cells and monocytes in particular toward an anti-inflammatory profile. Overall, these effects were stronger following dietary supplementation with 6% stanols, suggesting a dose-dependent effect. The findings of our study highlight the potential use of plant stanols as an affordable complementary means to ameliorate disorders in hepatic and blood lipid metabolism and reduce inflammation in NPC1 disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inês Magro Dos Reis
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tom Houben
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Oligschläger
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Leoni Bücken
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hellen Steinbusch
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - David Cassiman
- Liver Research Unit University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology and Metabolic Center, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dieter Lütjohann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marit Westerterp
- Department of Pediatrics, Section Molecular Genetics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jogchum Plat
- Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences, School for Nutrition, Toxicology, and Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ronit Shiri-Sverdlov
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. mailto:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Sohn JMB, de Souza STF, Raymundi AM, Bonato J, de Oliveira RMW, Prickaerts J, Stern CA. Persistence of the extinction of fear memory requires late-phase cAMP/PKA signaling in the infralimbic cortex. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2020; 172:107244. [PMID: 32376452 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2020.107244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fear extinction is a form of new learning that inhibits expression of the original fear memory without erasing the conditioned stimulus-unconditioned stimulus association. Much is known about the mechanisms that underlie the acquisition of extinction, but the way in which fear extinction is maintained has been scarcely explored. Evidence suggests that protein kinase A (PKA) in the frontal cortex might be related to the persistence of extinction. Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) specifically hydrolyzes cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). The present study evaluated the effect of the selective PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast (ROF; 0.01, 0.03, and 0.1 mg/kg given i.p.) on acquisition and consolidation of the extinction of fear memory in male Wistar rats in a contextual fear conditioning paradigm. When administered before acquisition, 0.1 mg/kg ROF disrupted short-term (1 day) extinction recall. In contrast, 0.03 mg/kg ROF administration in the late consolidation phase (3 h after extinction learning) but not in the early phase immediately after learning improved long-term extinction recall at 11 days, suggesting potentiation of the persistence of extinction. This effect of ROF requires the first (day 1) exposure to the context. A similar effect was observed when 9 ng ROF or 30 µM 8-bromoadenosine 3',5'-cAMP (PKA activator) was directly infused in the infralimbic cortex (IL), a brain region necessary for memory extinction. The PKA activity-dependent ROF-induced effect in the IL was correlated with an increase in its brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein expression, while blockade of PKA with 10 µM H89 in the IL abolished the ROF-induced increase in BDNF expression and prevented the effect of ROF on extinction recall. These effects were not associated with changes in anxiety-like behavior or general exploratory behavior. Altogether, these findings suggest that cAMP-PKA activity in the IL during the late consolidation phase after extinction learning underlies the persistence of extinction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ana Maria Raymundi
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Bonato
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, University of Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Aguiar RP, Soares LM, Meyer E, da Silveira FC, Milani H, Newman-Tancredi A, Varney M, Prickaerts J, Oliveira RMW. Activation of 5-HT 1A postsynaptic receptors by NLX-101 results in functional recovery and an increase in neuroplasticity in mice with brain ischemia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 99:109832. [PMID: 31809832 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological interventions that selectively activate serotonin 5-hydroxytryptramine-1A (5-HT1A) heteroreceptors may prevent or attenuate the consequences of brain ischemic episodes. The present study investigated whether the preferential 5-HT1A postsynaptic receptor agonist NLX-101 (a.k.a. F15599) mitigates cognitive and emotional impairments and affects neuroplasticity in mice that are subjected to the bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) model of brain ischemia. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor escitalopram (Esc) was used for comparative purposes because it is able to decrease morbidity and improve recovery in stroke patients and ischemic rodents. Sham and BCCAO mice received daily doses of NLX-101 (0.32 mg/kg, i.p) or Esc (20 mg/kg, i.p) for 28 days. During this period, they were evaluated for locomotor activity, anxiety- and despair-related behaviors and hippocampus-dependent cognitive function, using the open field, elevated zero maze, forced swim test and object location test, respectivelly. The mice's brains were processed for biochemical and histological analyses. BCCAO mice exhibited high anxiety and despair-like behaviors and performed worse than controls in the cognitive assessment. BCCAO induced neuronal and dendritic spine loss and decreases in the protein levels of neuronal plasticity markers, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), synaptophysin (SYN), and postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), in prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus. NLX-101 and Esc attenuated cognitive impairments and despair-like behaviors in BCCAO mice. Only Esc decreased anxiety-like behaviors due to brain ischemia. Both NLX-101 and Esc blocked the increase in plasma corticosterone levels and, restored BDNF, SYN and PSD-95 protein levels in the hippocampus. Moreover, both compounds impacted positively dentritic remodeling in the hippocampus and PFC of ischemic mice. In the PFC, NLX-101 increased the BDNF protein levels, while Esc in turn, attenuated the decrease in the PSD-95 protein levels induced by BCCAO. The present results suggest that activation of post-synaptic 5-HT1A receptors is the molecular mechanism for serotonergic protective effects in BCCAO. Moreover, post-synaptic biased agonists such as NLX-101 might constitute promising therapeutics for treatment of functional and neurodegenerative outcomes of brain ischemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Pazinatto Aguiar
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900 Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Lígia Mendes Soares
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900 Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Erika Meyer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900 Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Canova da Silveira
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900 Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Humberto Milani
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900 Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rúbia M Weffort Oliveira
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, CEP 87020-900 Maringá, Paraná, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Heckman PRA, Roig Kuhn F, Raven F, Bolsius YG, Prickaerts J, Meerlo P, Havekes R. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors roflumilast and vardenafil prevent sleep deprivation-induced deficits in spatial pattern separation. Synapse 2020; 74:e22150. [PMID: 32056276 PMCID: PMC9285343 DOI: 10.1002/syn.22150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Sleep deprivation (SD) is known to impair hippocampus‐dependent memory processes, in part by stimulating the phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity. In the present study, we assessed in mice whether SD also affects spatial pattern separation, a cognitive process that specifically requires the dentate gyrus (DG) subregion of the hippocampus. Adult male mice were trained in an object pattern separation (OPS) task in the middle of the light phase and then tested 24 hr thereafter. In total, we conducted three studies using the OPS task. In the first study, we validated the occurrence of pattern separation and tested the effects of SD. We found that 6 hr of SD during the first half of the light phase directly preceding the test trial impaired the spatial pattern separation performance. As a next step, we assessed in two consecutive studies whether the observed SD‐induced performance deficits could be prevented by the systemic application of two different PDE inhibitors that are approved for human use. Both the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast and PDE5 inhibitor vardenafil successfully prevented SD‐induced deficits in spatial pattern separation. As a result, these PDE inhibitors have clinical potential for the prevention of memory deficits associated with loss of sleep.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pim R A Heckman
- Neurobiology Expert Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Roig Kuhn
- Neurobiology Expert Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Raven
- Neurobiology Expert Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Youri G Bolsius
- Neurobiology Expert Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), European Graduate School of Neuroscience (EURON), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Meerlo
- Neurobiology Expert Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Robbert Havekes
- Neurobiology Expert Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Argyrousi EK, Heckman PRA, Prickaerts J. Role of cyclic nucleotides and their downstream signaling cascades in memory function: Being at the right time at the right spot. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 113:12-38. [PMID: 32044374 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
A plethora of studies indicate the important role of cAMP and cGMP cascades in neuronal plasticity and memory function. As a result, altered cyclic nucleotide signaling has been implicated in the pathophysiology of mnemonic dysfunction encountered in several diseases. In the present review we provide a wide overview of studies regarding the involvement of cyclic nucleotides, as well as their upstream and downstream molecules, in physiological and pathological mnemonic processes. Next, we discuss the regulation of the intracellular concentration of cyclic nucleotides via phosphodiesterases, the enzymes that degrade cAMP and/or cGMP, and via A-kinase-anchoring proteins that refine signal compartmentalization of cAMP signaling. We also provide an overview of the available data pointing to the existence of specific time windows in cyclic nucleotide signaling during neuroplasticity and memory formation and the significance to target these specific time phases for improving memory formation. Finally, we highlight the importance of emerging imaging tools like Förster resonance energy transfer imaging and optogenetics in detecting, measuring and manipulating the action of cyclic nucleotide signaling cascades.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elentina K Argyrousi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6200 MD, the Netherlands
| | - Pim R A Heckman
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6200 MD, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6200 MD, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
van den Berg M, Krauskopf J, Ramaekers J, Kleinjans J, Prickaerts J, Briedé J. Circulating microRNAs as potential biomarkers for psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 185:101732. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2019.101732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
39
|
Argyrousi EK, Heckman PRA, van Hagen BTJ, Muysers H, van Goethem NP, Prickaerts J. Pro-cognitive effect of upregulating cyclic guanosine monophosphate signalling during memory acquisition or early consolidation is mediated by increased AMPA receptor trafficking. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:103-114. [PMID: 31692397 PMCID: PMC6947811 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119885262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Episodic memory consists of different mnemonic phases, including acquisition and early and late consolidation. Each of these phases is characterised by distinct molecular processes. Although both cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) are implicated in the acquisition phase, early consolidation only depends on cGMP, whereas late consolidation is mediated by cAMP. Accordingly, the cGMP-selective phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor vardenafil or the cAMP-selective PDE4 inhibitor rolipram can improve memory acquisition or consolidation when applied during their respective time windows. AIMS Considering the important role of glutamatergic α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPAR) during normal memory function, we aimed to investigate whether the differential actions of these PDE inhibitors are mediated through AMPAR dynamics. METHODS For biochemical analysis, mice were treated with either vardenafil or rolipram and sacrificed shortly after injection. For the behavioural studies, mice received either of the inhibitors during the different mnemonic phases, while their spatial memory was tested using the object location task, and they were sacrificed 24 hours later. RESULTS Administration of either vardenafil or rolipram causes rapid changes in AMPARs. Moreover, treatment with vardenafil during the acquisition or early consolidation of spatial memory resulted in increased surface levels of AMPARs which were still augmented 24 hours after learning. Membrane levels of AMPARs were not affected anymore 24 hours after learning when rolipram was administrated at either the acquisition or late consolidation phase. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that dissociative molecular mechanisms could mediate the pro-cognitive function of different classes of PDE inhibitors, and in the case of vardenafil, this phenomenon could be explained by changes in AMPAR dynamics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jos Prickaerts
- Jos Prickaerts, Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Blokland A, Heckman P, Vanmierlo T, Schreiber R, Paes D, Prickaerts J. Phosphodiesterase Type 4 Inhibition in CNS Diseases. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2019; 40:971-985. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
41
|
Tiane A, Schepers M, Rombaut B, Hupperts R, Prickaerts J, Hellings N, van den Hove D, Vanmierlo T. From OPC to Oligodendrocyte: An Epigenetic Journey. Cells 2019; 8:E1236. [PMID: 31614602 PMCID: PMC6830107 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligodendrocytes provide metabolic and functional support to neuronal cells, rendering them key players in the functioning of the central nervous system. Oligodendrocytes need to be newly formed from a pool of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). The differentiation of OPCs into mature and myelinating cells is a multistep process, tightly controlled by spatiotemporal activation and repression of specific growth and transcription factors. While oligodendrocyte turnover is rather slow under physiological conditions, a disruption in this balanced differentiation process, for example in case of a differentiation block, could have devastating consequences during ageing and in pathological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis. Over the recent years, increasing evidence has shown that epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs, are major contributors to OPC differentiation. In this review, we discuss how these epigenetic mechanisms orchestrate and influence oligodendrocyte maturation. These insights are a crucial starting point for studies that aim to identify the contribution of epigenetics in demyelinating diseases and may thus provide new therapeutic targets to induce myelin repair in the long run.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Assia Tiane
- Department of Immunology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium.
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Melissa Schepers
- Department of Immunology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium.
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Immunology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium.
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Raymond Hupperts
- Department of Neurology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen 6130 MB, The Netherlands.
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Niels Hellings
- Department of Immunology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium.
| | - Daniel van den Hove
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg 97080, Germany.
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Immunology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt 3500, Belgium.
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Schepers M, Tiane A, Paes D, Sanchez S, Rombaut B, Piccart E, Rutten BPF, Brône B, Hellings N, Prickaerts J, Vanmierlo T. Targeting Phosphodiesterases-Towards a Tailor-Made Approach in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1727. [PMID: 31396231 PMCID: PMC6667646 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by heterogeneous clinical symptoms including gradual muscle weakness, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. The disease course of MS can be classified into a relapsing-remitting (RR) phase defined by periods of neurological disabilities, and a progressive phase where neurological decline is persistent. Pathologically, MS is defined by a destructive immunological and neuro-degenerative interplay. Current treatments largely target the inflammatory processes and slow disease progression at best. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop next-generation therapeutic strategies that target both neuroinflammatory and degenerative processes. It has been shown that elevating second messengers (cAMP and cGMP) is important for controlling inflammatory damage and inducing CNS repair. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) have been studied extensively in a wide range of disorders as they breakdown these second messengers, rendering them crucial regulators. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of PDE inhibition in limiting pathological inflammation and stimulating regenerative processes in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Schepers
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Assia Tiane
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Dean Paes
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Selien Sanchez
- Department of Morphology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Ben Rombaut
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth Piccart
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Bart P F Rutten
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Bert Brône
- Department of Physiology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Niels Hellings
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Tim Vanmierlo
- Department of Neuroimmunology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, European Graduate School of Neuroscience, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
van Goethem NP, Paes D, Puzzo D, Fedele E, Rebosio C, Gulisano W, Palmeri A, Wennogle LP, Peng Y, Bertrand D, Prickaerts J. Antagonizing α7 nicotinic receptors with methyllycaconitine (MLA) potentiates receptor activity and memory acquisition. Cell Signal 2019; 62:109338. [PMID: 31176021 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7nAChRs) have been targeted to improve cognition in different neurological and psychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, no α7nAChR activating ligand has been clinically approved. Here, we investigated the effects of antagonizing α7nAChRs using the selective antagonist methyllycaconitine (MLA) on receptor activity in vitro and cognitive functioning in vivo. Picomolar concentrations of MLA significantly potentiated receptor responses in electrophysiological experiments mimicking the in vivo situation. Furthermore, microdialysis studies showed that MLA administration substantially increased hippocampal glutamate efflux which is related to memory processes. Accordingly, pre-tetanus administration of low MLA concentrations produced longer lasting potentiation (long-term potentiation, LTP) in studies examining hippocampal plasticity. Moreover, low doses of MLA improved acquisition, but not consolidation memory processes in rats. While the focus to enhance cognition by modulating α7nAChRs lies on agonists and positive modulators, antagonists at low doses should provide a novel approach to improve cognition in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nick P van Goethem
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6200, MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dean Paes
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6200, MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela Puzzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Ernesto Fedele
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, 16148 Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Polyclinic Hospital San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Claudia Rebosio
- Department of Pharmacy, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, 16148 Genoa, Italy
| | - Walter Gulisano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Agostino Palmeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Youyi Peng
- Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc., New York 10016, United States
| | - Daniel Bertrand
- HiQScreen Sàrl, 6, rte de Compois, 1222, Vésenaz, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, 6200, MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Argyrousi EK, de Nijs L, Lagatta DC, Schlütter A, Weidner MT, Zöller J, van Goethem NP, Joca SR, van den Hove DL, Prickaerts J. Effects of DNA methyltransferase inhibition on pattern separation performance in mice. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2019; 159:6-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
45
|
Blokland A, Van Duinen MA, Sambeth A, Heckman PRA, Tsai M, Lahu G, Uz T, Prickaerts J. Acute treatment with the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast improves verbal word memory in healthy old individuals: a double-blind placebo-controlled study. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 77:37-43. [PMID: 30776650 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There is ample evidence that phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibition can improve memory performance in animal studies. In the present study, we examined the acute effects of the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast on memory performance in healthy individuals (60-80 years of age). We tested the effects of acute roflumilast administration (100, 250, 1000 μg) in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, 4-way crossover design. Participants were first screened for their verbal word memory performance to ensure normal memory performance (within 0.5 standard deviation from norm score; n = 20) Drug effects on memory performance were tested in a verbal memory test and a spatial memory test. Reported side effects of drug treatment were registered. Roflumilast (100 μg) improved the delayed recall performance of the participants (Cohen's d, 0.69). No effects were observed in the spatial memory task. Roflumilast was well tolerated at this low dose. Although no clear adverse side effects were reported at the low dose, mild adverse events (including headache, dizziness, insomnia, and diarrhea) were reported after the 1000 μg dose. The present study provides first evidence that the PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast improves verbal memory performance in old participants. The current data encourage further development of PDE4 inhibitors for improving memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arjan Blokland
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marlies A Van Duinen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Anke Sambeth
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Pim R A Heckman
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Max Tsai
- Department of Clinical Development, Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Gezim Lahu
- Department of Clinical Development, Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Tolga Uz
- Department of Clinical Development, Takeda Development Center Americas, Deerfield, IL, USA
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Nelissen E, van Goethem NP, Bonassoli VT, Heckman PRA, van Hagen BTJ, Suay D, Wouters C, Prickaerts J. Validation of the xylazine/ketamine anesthesia test as a predictor of the emetic potential of pharmacological compounds in rats. Neurosci Lett 2019; 699:41-46. [PMID: 30659913 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The xylazine/ketamine anesthesia test is widely used as a predictor of the emetic potential of pharmacological compounds in rats. An emetic reflex is usually triggered by the emetic center, which is populated with many different chemoreceptors. Inhibition of the α2 adrenergic receptor (α2 receptor) is involved in the initiation of the emetic reflex, and this is the key mechanism behind the xylazine/ketamine anesthesia test. In this study, we attempt to validate this test as a predictor of the emetic potential of pharmacological compounds. Furthermore, it was investigated whether an anti-emetic potential of pharmacological compounds could be assessed within this test as well. Rats were anesthetized with a combination of low doses of ketamine and xylazine, and subsequently treated with PDE4 inhibitor rolipram, α2 receptor antagonist yohimbine, α2 receptor agonist clonidine, tricyclic antidepressant imipramine, D2-receptor antagonist haloperidol, or 5-HT3 receptor antagonist (and anti-emetic drug) ondansetron. We were able to successfully reproduce the reduction in anesthesia time after rolipram or yohimbine treatment, as found in previous studies and has been suggested to be indicative of emetic properties of these treatments is humans. Furthermore, clonidine shortened anesthesia duration whereas imipramine and haloperidol lengthened anesthesia duration. Ondansetron was unable to rescue the reduction in duration of anesthesia induced by either rolipram or yohimbine. Altogether, the xylazine/ketamine anesthesia test is a reliable measure for α2 receptor antagonism. However, it may not be appropriate to assess emesis independent of this mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellis Nelissen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Nick P van Goethem
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Vivian T Bonassoli
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Pim R A Heckman
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Britt T J van Hagen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Dila Suay
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Caroline Wouters
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Houben T, Magro Dos Reis I, Oligschlaeger Y, Steinbusch H, Gijbels MJJ, Hendrikx T, Binder CJ, Cassiman D, Westerterp M, Prickaerts J, Shiri-Sverdlov R. Pneumococcal Immunization Reduces Neurological and Hepatic Symptoms in a Mouse Model for Niemann-Pick Type C1 Disease. Front Immunol 2019; 9:3089. [PMID: 30666257 PMCID: PMC6330339 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Niemann-Pick type C1 (NPC1) disease is caused by a deleterious mutation in the Npc1 gene, causing lysosomal accumulation of unesterified cholesterol and sphingolipids. Consequently, NPC1 disease patients suffer from severe neurovisceral symptoms which, in the absence of effective treatments, result in premature death. NPC1 disease patients display increased plasma levels of cholesterol oxidation products such as those enriched in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), a pro-inflammatory mediator. While it has been shown that inflammation precedes and exacerbates symptom severity in NPC1 disease, it is unclear whether oxLDL contributes to NPC1 disease progression. In this study, we investigated the effects of increasing anti-oxLDL IgM autoantibodies on systemic and neurological symptoms in an NPC1 disease mouse model. For this purpose, Npc1nih mice were immunized with heat-inactivated S. pneumoniae, an immunogen which elicits an IgM autoantibody-mediated immune response against oxLDL. Npc1nih mice injected with heat-inactivated pneumococci displayed an improved hepatic phenotype, including liver lipid accumulation and inflammation. In addition, regression of motor skills was delayed in immunized Npc1nih. In line with these results, brain analyses showed an improved cerebellar phenotype and neuroinflammation in comparison with control-treated subjects. This study highlights the potential of the pneumococcal immunization as a novel therapeutical approach in NPC1 disease. Future research should investigate whether implementation of this therapy can improve life span and quality of life of NPC1 disease patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Houben
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Inês Magro Dos Reis
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Oligschlaeger
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Hellen Steinbusch
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Marion J J Gijbels
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Tim Hendrikx
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph J Binder
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - David Cassiman
- Liver Research Unit, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology and Metabolic Center, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marit Westerterp
- Section Molecular Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ronit Shiri-Sverdlov
- Department of Molecular Genetics, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Schepers M, Paes D, Tiane A, Houben E, Bruno O, Brullo C, Hellings N, Prickaerts J, Vanmierlo T. Phosphodiesterase 4D inhibition boosts remyelination in multiple sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2019. [DOI: 10.3389/conf.fnins.2019.96.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
49
|
van Goethem NP, van Hagen BTJ, Prickaerts J. Publisher Correction: Assessing spatial pattern separation in rodents using the object pattern separation task. Nat Protoc 2018; 14:2259. [PMID: 30305702 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-018-0061-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In the HTML version of this paper originally published online, text in Table 6 was misaligned in a way that made it difficult to determine which entries in the "Problem," "Possible reason," and "Solution" columns corresponded to one another. Additional but less severe alignment problems were also present in the PDF and print articles. These errors have been corrected in the HTML and PDF versions of the paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nick P van Goethem
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Britt T J van Hagen
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Borghans LGJM, Sambeth A, Prickaerts J, Ramaekers JG, Blokland A. The effects of the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator riociguat on memory performance in healthy volunteers with a biperiden-induced memory impairment. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:2407-2416. [PMID: 29882087 PMCID: PMC6061766 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-4938-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE After stimulation with nitric oxide, soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) produces cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which stimulates an important signalling pathway for long-term potentiation (LTP). By upregulating cGMP, LTP could be stimulated and thereby enhancing memory processes. The present study investigated the effects of the sGC stimulator riociguat on cognition in healthy volunteers. Participants were pre-treated with and without biperiden, which impairs memory performance, to investigate the memory-enhancing effects of riociguat. METHODS Twenty volunteers participated in a double-blind placebo-controlled six-way crossover design with a cognitive test battery including the verbal learning task (VLT), n-back task, spatial memory test, the attention network test, and a reaction time task. Treatments were placebo and riociguat 0.5 mg, placebo and riociguat 1.0 mg, biperiden 2.0 mg and placebo, biperiden 2.0 mg and riociguat 0.5 mg and biperiden 2.0 mg and riociguat 1.0 mg. RESULTS Blood pressure was found to be decreased and heart rate to be increased after administration of riociguat. Cognitive performance was not enhanced after administration of riociguat. Biperiden decreased episodic memory on the VLT, yet this deficit was not reversed by riociguat. CONCLUSION This supports the notion that biperiden might be a valuable pharmacological model to induce episodic memory impairments as observed in AD/MCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura G. J. M. Borghans
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anke Sambeth
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Prickaerts
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Science, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes G. Ramaekers
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan Blokland
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|