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Davoody S, Asgari Taei A, Khodabakhsh P, Dargahi L. mTOR signaling and Alzheimer's disease: What we know and where we are? CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14463. [PMID: 37721413 PMCID: PMC11017461 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14463] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the great body of research done on Alzheimer's disease, the underlying mechanisms have not been vividly investigated. To date, the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles constitutes the hallmark of the disease; however, dysregulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) seems to be significantly involved in the pathogenesis of the disease as well. mTOR, as a serine-threonine protein kinase, was previously known for controlling many cellular functions such as cell size, autophagy, and metabolism. In this regard, mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) may leave anti-aging impacts by robustly inhibiting autophagy, a mechanism that inhibits the accumulation of damaged protein aggregate and dysfunctional organelles. Formation and aggregation of neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid-beta plaques seem to be significantly regulated by mTOR signaling. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and connection between mTOR signaling and AD may suggest conducting clinical trials assessing the efficacy of rapamycin, as an mTOR inhibitor drug, in managing AD or may help develop other medications. In this literature review, we aim to elaborate mTOR signaling network mainly in the brain, point to gaps of knowledge, and define how and in which ways mTOR signaling can be connected with AD pathogenesis and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samin Davoody
- Student Research Committee, School of MedicineShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of NeurophysiologyInstitute of Physiology, Eberhard Karls University of TübingenTübingenGermany
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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Khodabakhsh P, Asgari Taei A, Shafaroodi H, Pournajaf S, Dargahi L. Effect of Metformin on Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cells and Their Potential Application in Ameliorating Paclitaxel-induced Neurotoxicity Phenotype. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:394-412. [PMID: 37924435 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10642-x] [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] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cells (EPI-NCSCs) have emerged as prospective ideal candidates to meet the fundamental requirements of cell-based therapies in neurodegenerative disorders. The present study aimed to identify the potential of metformin in driving EPI-NCSCs to neuronal/glial differentiation and express neurotrophic factors as well as assess their therapeutic potential for mitigating the main behavioral manifestations of chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity (CIN). MAIN METHODS EPI-NCSCs were extracted from the bulge region of hair follicle. Following expansion, transcript and protein expression profiles of key markers for stemness (Nestin, EGR-1, SOX-2 and 10), neurotrophic activity (BDNF, GDNF, NGF, FGF-2, and IL-6), and neuronal (TUB3, DCX, NRF and NeuN) and glial (PDGFRα, NG2, GFAP, and MBP) differentiation were determined on days 1 and 7 post-treatment with 10 and 100 μM metformin using real time-PCR and immunocytochemistry methods. Then, the in vivo function of metformin-treated stem cells was evaluated in the context of paclitaxel CIN. To do so, thermal hyperalgesia, mechanical allodynia, and spatial learning and memory tests were evaluated by Hotplate, Von Frey, and Morris water maze tests. KEY FINDINGS Our result indicated that exposure of EPI-NCSCs to metformin was associated with progressive decline in stemness markers and enhanced expression levels of several neurotrophic, neuron and oligodendrocyte-specific markers. Further, it was observed that intranasal metformin-treated EPI-NCSCs improved the cognitive impairment, and mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity induced by paclitaxel in rats. SIGNIFICANCE Collectively, we reasoned that metformin pretreatment of EPI-NCSCs might further enhance their therapeutic benefits against CIN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Institute of Physiology, Department Neurophysiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Shafaroodi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Safura Pournajaf
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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3
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Vakili K, Fathi M, Yaghoobpoor S, Sayehmiri F, Nazerian Y, Nazerian A, Mohamadkhani A, Khodabakhsh P, Réus GZ, Hajibeygi R, Rezaei-Tavirani M. The contribution of gut-brain axis to development of neurological symptoms in COVID-19 recovered patients: A hypothesis and review of literature. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:983089. [PMID: 36619768 PMCID: PMC9815719 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.983089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota undergoes significant alterations in response to viral infections, particularly the novel SARS-CoV-2. As impaired gut microbiota can trigger numerous neurological disorders, we suggest that the long-term neurological symptoms of COVID-19 may be related to intestinal microbiota disorders in these patients. Thus, we have gathered available information on how the virus can affect the microbiota of gastrointestinal systems, both in the acute and the recovery phase of the disease, and described several mechanisms through which this gut dysbiosis can lead to long-term neurological disorders, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome, chronic fatigue, psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety, and even neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. These mechanisms may be mediated by inflammatory cytokines, as well as certain chemicals such as gastrointestinal hormones (e.g., CCK), neurotransmitters (e.g., 5-HT), etc. (e.g., short-chain fatty acids), and the autonomic nervous system. In addition to the direct influences of the virus, repurposed medications used for COVID-19 patients can also play a role in gut dysbiosis. In conclusion, although there are many dark spots in our current knowledge of the mechanism of COVID-19-related gut-brain axis disturbance, based on available evidence, we can hypothesize that these two phenomena are more than just a coincidence and highly recommend large-scale epidemiologic studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Vakili
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobina Fathi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirin Yaghoobpoor
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sayehmiri
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Nazerian
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ashraf Mohamadkhani
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gislaine Z. Réus
- Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Ramtin Hajibeygi
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Rezaei-Tavirani
- Proteomics Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,*Correspondence: Mostafa Rezaei-Tavirani,
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Khodabakhsh P, Bazrgar M, Mohagheghi F, Parvardeh S, Ahmadiani A. MicroRNA-140-5p inhibitor attenuates memory impairment induced by amyloid-ß oligomer in vivo possibly through Pin1 regulation. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 29:91-103. [PMID: 36184817 PMCID: PMC9804077 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS The peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase, Pin1, has a protective role in age-related neurodegeneration by targeting different phosphorylation sites of tau and the key proteins required to produce Amyloid-β, which are the well-known molecular signatures of Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology. The direct interaction of miR-140-5p with Pin1 mRNA and its inhibitory role in protein translation has been identified. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the role of miRNA-140-5p inhibition in promoting Pin1 expression and the therapeutic potential of the AntimiR-140-5p in the Aß oligomer (AßO)-induced AD rat model. METHODS Spatial learning and memory were assessed in the Morris water maze. RT-PCR, western blot, and histological assays were performed on hippocampal samples at various time points after treatments. miRNA-140-5p inhibition enhanced Pin1 and ADAM10 mRNA expressions but has little effect on Pin1 protein level. RESULTS The miRNA-140-5p inhibitor markedly ameliorated spatial learning and memory deficits induced by AßO, and concomitantly suppressed the mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators TNFα and IL-1β, and phosphorylation of tau at three key sites (thr231, ser396, and ser404) as well as increased phosphorylated Ser473-Akt. CONCLUSION According to our results, Antimir-140-mediated improvement of AβO-induced neuronal injury and memory impairment in rats may provide an appropriate rationale for evaluating miR-140-5p inhibitors as a promising agent for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of MedicineShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran,Neuroscience Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical ScienceTehranIran
| | - Maryam Bazrgar
- Neuroscience Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical ScienceTehranIran
| | - Fatemeh Mohagheghi
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of MedicineTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Siavash Parvardeh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of MedicineShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Abolhassan Ahmadiani
- Neuroscience Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical ScienceTehranIran
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Asgari Taei A, Khodabakhsh P, Nasoohi S, Farahmandfar M, Dargahi L. Paracrine Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Ischemic Stroke: Opportunities and Challenges. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:6281-6306. [PMID: 35922728 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02967-4] [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: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
It is well acknowledged that neuroprotective effects of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in ischemic stroke are attributed to their paracrine-mediated actions or bystander effects rather than to cell replacement in infarcted areas. This therapeutic plasticity is due to MSCs' ability to secrete a broad range of bioactive molecules including growth factors, trophic factors, cytokines, chemokines, and extracellular vesicles, overall known as the secretome. The secretome derivatives, such as conditioned medium (CM) or purified extracellular vesicles (EVs), exert remarkable advantages over MSC transplantation in stroke treating. Here, in this review, we used published information to provide an overview on the secretome composition of MSCs, underlying mechanisms of therapeutic effects of MSCs, and preclinical studies on MSC-derived products application in stroke. Furthermore, we discussed current advantages and challenges for successful bench-to-bedside translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Nasoohi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Farahmandfar
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Asgari Taei A, Dargahi L, Khodabakhsh P, Kadivar M, Farahmandfar M. Hippocampal neuroprotection mediated by secretome of human mesenchymal stem cells against experimental stroke. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 28:1425-1438. [PMID: 35715988 PMCID: PMC9344087 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Regenerative medicine literature has demonstrated that the therapeutic potentials of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in experimental stroke are attributed to secreted bioactive factors rather than to cell replacement. Here, we explored the effects of secretome or conditioned medium (CM) derived from human embryonic stem cell‐derived MSCs (hESC‐MSCs) on hippocampal neurogenesis, inflammation, and apoptosis in experimental stroke. Methods Ischemic stroke was induced by right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in male Wistar rats, and CM was infused either one time (1‐h post‐stroke; CM1) or three times (1‐, 24‐, and 48‐h post‐stroke; CM3) into left lateral ventricle. Neurogenesis markers (Nestin, Ki67, Doublecortin, and Reelin) were assessed at transcript and protein levels in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus on day seven following MCAO. In parallel, changes in the gene expression of markers of apoptosis (Bax and Bim, as well as an anti‐apoptotic marker of Bcl2), inflammation (IL‐1β and IL‐6, as well as IL‐10 as an anti‐inflammatory cytokine), trophic factors (BDNF, GDNF, NGF, and NT‐3), and angiogenesis (CD31 and VEGF) in the hippocampus were assessed. Results Our results demonstrate that CM3 treatment could stimulate neurogenesis and angiogenesis concomitant with inhibition of inflammation, apoptosis, and neuronal loss in ischemic brains. Furthermore, rats treated with CM3 exhibited upregulation in neurotrophic factors. Conclusion Our results suggest that hESC‐MSC‐CM could promote neurogenesis and protect brain tissue from ischemic injury, partly mediated by induction of angiogenesis and neurotrophic factors and inhibition of inflammatory and apoptotic factors expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Kadivar
- Department of Biochemistry, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Farahmandfar
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Bazrgar M, Khodabakhsh P, Dargahi L, Mohagheghi F, Ahmadiani A. MicroRNA modulation is a potential molecular mechanism for neuroprotective effects of intranasal insulin administration in amyloid βeta oligomer induced Alzheimer's like rat model. Exp Gerontol 2022; 164:111812. [PMID: 35476966 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2022.111812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Substantial evidence indicates that imbalance in the expression of miR-132-3p, miR-181b-5p, miR-125b-5p, miR-26a-5p, miR-124-3p, miR-146a-5p, miR-29a-3p, and miR-30a-5p in the AD brain are associated with amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation, tau pathology, neuroinflammation, and synaptic dysfunction, the major pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease)AD(. Several studies have reported that intranasal insulin administration ameliorates memory in AD patients and animal models. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not yet completely elucidated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether insulin is involved in regulating the expression of AD-related microRNAs. Pursuing this objective, we first investigated the therapeutic effect of intranasal insulin on Aβ oligomer (AβO)-induced memory impairment in male rats using the Morris water maze task. Then, molecular and histological changes in response to AβO and/or insulin time course were assessed in the extracted hippocampi on days 1, 14, and 21 of the study using congo red staining, western blot and quantitative real-time PCR analyses. We observed memory impairment, Aβ aggregation, tau hyper-phosphorylation, neuroinflammation, insulin signaling dys-regulation, and down-regulation of miR-26a, miR-124, miR-29a, miR-181b, miR-125b, miR-132, and miR-146a in the hippocampus of AβO-exposed rats 21 days after AβO injection. Intranasal insulin treatment ameliorated memory impairment and concomitantly increased miR-132, miR-181b, and miR-125b expression, attenuated tau phosphorylation levels, Aβ aggregation, and neuroinflammation, and regulated the insulin signaling as well. In conclusion, our study suggest that the neuroprotective effects of insulin on memory observed in AD-like rats could be partially due to the restoration of miR-132, miR-181b, and miR-125b expression in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Bazrgar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohagheghi
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Abolhassan Ahmadiani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
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Khodabakhsh P, Khoie N, Dehpour AR, Abdollahi A, Ghazi-Khansari M, Shafaroodi H. Montelukast suppresses the development of irritable bowel syndrome phenotype possibly through modulating NF-κB signaling in an experimental model. Inflammopharmacology 2022; 30:313-325. [PMID: 35013876 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-021-00907-7] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gut disorder with multi-factorial pathophysiology that causes recurring pain or discomfort in the abdomen, as well as altered bowel habits. Montelukast, a well-known cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 (CysLT1R) antagonist, is widely used for the anti-inflammatory management of asthma. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of pharmacological inhibition of CysLT1R on acetic acid-induced diarrhea-predominant IBS (D-IBS) in rats. Behavioral pain responses to noxious mechanical stimulation were decreased in the montelukast-treated rats as compared to the model animals following colorectal distension (CRD)-induced visceral hypersensitivity. Stool frequency decreased dose-dependently by montelukast in IBS rats exposed to restraint stress. A significantly shorter immobility time was also observed in IBS rats who received montelukast vs IBS group in the forced swimming test (depression-like behavior). Furthermore, there were significant decreases in the NF-κB protein expression, inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, and IL-1ß) levels, and histopathological inflammatory injuries concomitant with increased anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10, in montelukast-treated rats compared with the IBS group. Cysteinyl leukotriene production and CysLT1R mRNA expression showed no remarkable differences among the experimental groups. The present results suggest the possible beneficial effects of montelukast in the management of D-IBS symptoms. The molecular mechanism underlying such effects, at least to some extent, might be through modulating CysLT1R-mediated NF-κB signaling. Yet, more studies are required to demonstrate the clinical potential of this drug for IBS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Student Research Committee, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nilgoon Khoie
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad-Reza Dehpour
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Abdollahi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, IKHC, Teheran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Ghazi-Khansari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Shafaroodi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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9
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Khodabakhsh P, Asgari Taei A, Mohseni M, Bahrami Zanjanbar D, Khalili H, Masoumi K, Haji Abbas Shirazi A, Dargahi L. Vasoactive Peptides: Role in COVID-19 Pathogenesis and Potential Use as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets. Arch Med Res 2021; 52:777-787. [PMID: 34134920 PMCID: PMC8179120 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2021.05.007] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ongoing outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), as the latest threat to global health, causes overwhelming effects for the public healthcare systems worldwide. Of note, in addition to the respiratory complications, some patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) also develop serious cardiovascular injuries. Vasoactive peptides play an important role in a wide range of physiological and pathological conditions. AIM With the urgent need for exploring the specific therapeutic targets and biomarkers for the emerging COVID-19, the general aim of this review is to discuss the potentials of the vasoactive peptides including Angiotensin II (Ang II), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), endothelin-1 (ET-1), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), natriuretic peptides, substance P (SP) and bradykinin (BK) as therapeutic targets and/or prognostic indicators for the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION Based on various observations some authors conclude that the assessment of vasoactive peptides shall be considered a routine part of COVID-19 patient monitoring, and they can serve as potential therapeutic targets for the disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran,Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Mohseni
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Dorsa Bahrami Zanjanbar
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hasti Khalili
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Masoumi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Leila Dargahi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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10
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Khodabakhsh P, Bazrgar M, Dargahi L, Mohagheghi F, Asgari Taei A, Parvardeh S, Ahmadiani A. Does Alzheimer's disease stem in the gastrointestinal system? Life Sci 2021; 287:120088. [PMID: 34715145 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decades, our knowledge of the key pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has dramatically improved. Regarding the limitation of current therapeutic strategies for the treatment of multifactorial diseases, such as AD, to be translated into the clinic, there is a growing trend in research to identify risk factors associated with the onset and progression of AD. Here, we review the current literature with a focus on the relationship between gastrointestinal (GI)/liver diseases during the lifespan and the incidence of AD, and discuss the possible mechanisms underlying the link between the diseases. We also aim to review studies evaluating the possible link between the chronic use of the most common GI medications and the future risk of AD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Bazrgar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mohagheghi
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Afsaneh Asgari Taei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Siavash Parvardeh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Abolhassan Ahmadiani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Bazrgar M, Khodabakhsh P, Prudencio M, Mohagheghi F, Ahmadiani A. The role of microRNA-34 family in Alzheimer's disease: A potential molecular link between neurodegeneration and metabolic disorders. Pharmacol Res 2021; 172:105805. [PMID: 34371173 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105805] [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: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence indicates that overexpression of the microRNA-34 (miR-34) family in the brain may play a crucial role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis by targeting and downregulating genes associated with neuronal survival, synapse formation and plasticity, Aβ clearance, mitochondrial function, antioxidant defense system, and energy metabolism. Additionally, elevated levels of the miR-34 family in the liver and pancreas promote the development of metabolic syndromes (MetS), such as diabetes and obesity. Importantly, MetS represent a well-documented risk factor for sporadic AD. This review focuses on the recent findings regarding the role of the miR-34 family in the pathogenesis of AD and MetS, and proposes miR-34 as a potential molecular link between both disorders. A comprehensive understanding of the functional roles of miR-34 family in the molecular and cellular pathogenesis of AD brains may lead to the discovery of a breakthrough treatment strategy for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Bazrgar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Mohagheghi
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Abolhassan Ahmadiani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
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Khodabakhsh P, Pournajaf S, Mohaghegh Shalmani L, Ahmadiani A, Dargahi L. Insulin Promotes Schwann-Like Cell Differentiation of Rat Epidermal Neural Crest Stem Cells. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:5327-5337. [PMID: 34297315 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02423-9] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Schwann cells (SCs) are considered potentially attractive candidates for transplantation therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. However, problems arising from the isolation and expansion of the SCs restrict their clinical applications. Establishing an alternative Schwann-like cell type is a prerequisite. Epidermal neural crest stem cells (EPI-NCSCs) are well studied for their autologous accessibility, along with the ability to produce major neural crest derivatives and neurotrophic factors. In the current study, we explored insulin influence, a well-known growth factor, on directing EPI-NCSCs into the Schwann cell (SC) lineage. EPI-NCSCs were isolated from rat hair bulge explants. The viability of cells treated with a range of insulin concentrations (0.05-100 μg/ml) was defined by MTT assay at 24, 48, and 72 h. The gene expression profiles of neurotrophic factors (BDNF, FGF-2, and IL-6), key regulators involved in the development of SC (EGR-1, SOX-10, c-JUN, GFAP, OCT-6, EGR-2, and MBP), and oligodendrocyte (PDGFR-α and NG-2) were quantified 1 and 9 days post-treatment with 0.05 and 5 μg/ml insulin. Furthermore, the protein expression of nestin (stemness marker), SOX-10, PDGFR-α, and MBP was analyzed following the long-term insulin treatment. Insulin downregulated the early-stage SC differentiation marker (EGR-1) and increased neurotrophins (BDNF and IL-6) and pro-myelinating genes, including OCT-6, SOX-10, EGR-2, and MBP, as well as oligodendrocyte differentiation markers, upon exposure for 9 days. Insulin can promote EPI-NCSC differentiation toward SC lineage and possibly oligodendrocytes. Thus, employing insulin might enhance the EPI-NCSCs efficiency in cell transplantation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Safura Pournajaf
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Mohaghegh Shalmani
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abolhassan Ahmadiani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Pournajaf S, Valian N, Mohaghegh Shalmani L, Khodabakhsh P, Jorjani M, Dargahi L. Fingolimod increases oligodendrocytes markers expression in epidermal neural crest stem cells. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 885:173502. [PMID: 32860811 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal neural crest stem cells (EPI-NCSCs) are propitious candidates for cell replacement therapy and supplying neurotrophic factors in the neurological disorders. Considering the potential remyelinating and regenerative effects of fingolimod, in this study, we evaluated its effects on EPI-NCSCs viability and the expression of neurotrophic and oligodendrocyte differentiation factors. EPI-NCSCs, extracted from the bulge of rat hair follicles, were characterized and treated with fingolimod (0, 50, 100, 200, 400, 600, 1000, and 5000 nM). The cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay at 6, 24 and 72 h. The expression of neurotrophic and differentiation factors in the cells treated with 100 and 400 nM fingolimod were measured at 24 and 120 h. Fingolimod at 50-600 nM increased the cells viability after 6 h, with no change at the higher concentrations. The highest concentration (5000nM) induced toxicity at 24 and 72 h. NGF and GDNF genes expression were decreased at 120 h, but on the contrary, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin 3 (NT3) were increased by both concentrations at both time points. Oligodendrocyte markers including platelet-derived growth factor receptor A (PDGFRα), neuron-glial antigen 2 (NG2) and growth associated protein 43 (GAP43) were elevated at 120 h, which was accompanied with reduce in stemness markers (Nestin and early growth response 1 (EGR1)). Fingolimod increased the expression of neurotrophic factors in EPI-NCSCs, and guided them to oligodendrocyte fate. Therefore, fingolimod in combination with EPI-NCSCs, can be considered as a promising approach for demyelinating neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safura Pournajaf
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Valian
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Mohaghegh Shalmani
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pariya Khodabakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Jorjani
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Nakhostin A, Mirseyyedhosein S, Toolabi M, Khodabakhsh P, Aghamiri H, Ghaffari S, Shafaroodi H, Shayesteh A, Amini M, Shafiee A, Navidpour L. Synthesis, conformational assignment, and anti-inflammatory activities of N-arylidene-2-(4-chloro-2-(2-substituted phenoxy)phenyl)acetic acid hydrazides. Med Chem Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-016-1656-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Tegos TJ, Stavropoulos P, Sabetai MM, Khodabakhsh P, Sassano A, Nicolaides AN. Determinants of carotid plaque instability: echoicity versus heterogeneity. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2001; 22:22-30. [PMID: 11461098 DOI: 10.1053/ejvs.2001.1412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to identify the echoicity and heterogeneity of carotid plaques associated with ipsilateral symptomatic and asymptomatic neurovascular presentations. DESIGN cross-sectional study. MATERIALS a total of 113 patients, with 127 symptomatic and asymptomatic plaques, were studied. METHODS the duplex images of the plaques were analysed echoically in a computer by means of Grey Scale Median (GSM) [hypoechoic (low GSM), hyperechoic (high GSM)]. The presence or absence of at least two plaque regions within the plaque area being echoically uniform (no variation of echoicity), occupying each at least 10% of the plaque area and having GSM difference greater than the plaque GSM was evaluated to distinguish the heterogeneous (presence of this pattern) from the homogeneous (absence of this pattern) plaques. RESULTS the symptomatic status was associated with plaques of low median GSM (10.5) and 88% prevalence of the homogeneous pattern as contrasted with the asymptomatic status that was associated with high median GSM (28) and 65% prevalence of the homogeneous pattern [(p=0.001 (GSM), p=0.003 (heterogeneity)]. CONCLUSIONS symptomatic plaques were associated with hypoechoic and predominant homogeneous echo-pattern whereas the asymptomatic ones were associated with hyperechoic and less predominant homogeneous pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Tegos
- Irvine Laboratory for Cardiovascular Investigation and Research, Department of Vascular Surgery, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, Praed St, Paddington, London W2 1NY
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