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Oxenkrug G, Forester B. Anthranilic Acid, a GPR109A Agonist, and Schizophrenia. Int J Tryptophan Res 2024; 17:11786469241239125. [PMID: 38532858 PMCID: PMC10964450 DOI: 10.1177/11786469241239125] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Limited clinical efficiency of current medications warrants search for new antipsychotic agents. Deorphanized G-protein coupled receptor (GPR)109A has not attracted much of attention of schizophrenia researchers. We analyzed literature and our data on endogenous agonists of GPR109A, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), anthranilic (AA), butyric (BA), and nicotinic (NA) acids, in individuals with schizophrenia. Data Sex specific differences: plasma AA levels were 27% higher in female than in male patients and correlated with PANSS before 6 weeks of antipsychotics treatment (r = .625, P < .019, Spearman's test). There was no sex specific differences of plasma AA levels after treatment. AA plasma levels inversely correlated (-.58, P < .005) with PANSS scores in responders to treatment (at least, 50% improvement) but not in nonresponders. Preclinical studies suggested antipsychotic effect of BHB and BA. Clinical studies observed antipsychotic effect of NA; benzoate sodium, an AA precursor; and interventions associated with BHB upregulation (eg, fasting and ketogenic diets). Discussion Upregulation of GPR109A, an anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective receptor, inhibits cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), an enzyme that breakdown myelin, lipid-based insulating axonal sheath that protects and promotes nerve conduction. Brain cPLA2 is upregulated in individuals with schizophrenia and subjects at high-risk for development of psychosis. Lower myelin content is associated with cognitive decline in individuals with schizophrenia. Therefore, GPR109A might exert antipsychotic effect via suppression of cPLA2, and, consequently, preservation of myelin integrity. Future research might explore antipsychotic effects of (1) human pegylated kynureninase, an enzyme that catalyzes formation of AA from kynurenine (Kyn); (2) inhibitors of Kyn conversion into kynurenic acid, for example, KYN5356, to patients with already impaired Kyn conversion into 3-hydroxykynurenine; (3) synthetic GPR 109A agonists, for example, MK-1903 and SCH900271 and GSK256073, that underwent clinical trials as anti-dyslipidemia agents. GPR109A expression, that might be a new endophenotype of schizophrenia, especially associated with cognitive impairment, needs thorough assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Oxenkrug
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston MA, USA
| | - Brent Forester
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston MA, USA
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Hu J, Dai J, Sheng N. Kynurenic Acid Plays a Protective Role in Hepatotoxicity Induced by HFPO-DA in Male Mice. Environ Sci Technol 2024; 58:1842-1853. [PMID: 38228288 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08033] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Following its introduction as an alternative to perfluorooctanoic acid, hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA) has been extensively detected in various environmental matrices. Despite this prevalence, limited information is available regarding its hepatotoxicity biomarkers. In this study, toxicokinetic simulations indicated that under repeated treatment, HFPO-DA in mice serum reached a steady state by the 4th day. To assess its subacute hepatic effects and identify potential biomarkers, mice were administered HFPO-DA orally at doses of 0, 0.1, 0.5, 2.5, 12.5, or 62.5 mg/kg/d for 7 d. Results revealed that the lowest observed adverse effect levels were 0.5 mg/kg/d for hepatomegaly and 2.5 mg/kg/d for hepatic injury. Serum metabolomics analysis identified 34, 58, and 118 differential metabolites in the 0.1, 0.5, and 2.5 mg/kg/d groups, respectively, compared to the control group. Based on weighted gene coexpression network analysis, eight potential hepatotoxicity-related metabolites were identified; among them, kynurenic acid (KA) in mouse serum exhibited the highest correlation with liver injury. Furthermore, liver-targeted metabolomics analysis demonstrated that HFPO-DA exposure induced metabolic migration of the kynurenine pathway from KA to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, resulting in the activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress and the nuclear factor kappa-B signaling pathway. Notably, pretreatment with KA significantly attenuated liver injury induced by HFPO-DA exposure in mice, highlighting the pivotal roles of KA in the hepatotoxicity of HFPO-DA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianglin Hu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jiayin Dai
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200240, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Nan Sheng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 200240, China
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Cavaleri D, Crocamo C, Morello P, Bartoli F, Carrà G. The Kynurenine Pathway in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Blood Concentrations of Tryptophan and Its Catabolites. J Clin Med 2024; 13:583. [PMID: 38276089 PMCID: PMC10815986 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020583] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Preliminary evidence shows that the kynurenine pathway (KP) may be altered in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We thus conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis exploring the peripheral blood concentrations of tryptophan catabolites (TRYCATs) in people with ADHD. We searched the main electronic databases up to 7th December 2023. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were used to compare TRYCAT concentrations between participants with ADHD and healthy controls (HCs). We included eight studies. Random-effects meta-analyses found higher kynurenine (SMD = 0.56; 95%CI: 0.04 to 1.08; p = 0.033; I2 = 90.3%) and lower kynurenic acid (SMD = -0.33; 95%CI: -0.49 to -0.17; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%) concentrations in people with ADHD compared to HCs. Additional analyses on drug-free children with ADHD showed higher tryptophan (SMD = 0.31; 95%CI: 0.11 to 0.50; p = 0.002; I2 = 0%) and kynurenine (SMD = 0.74; 95%CI: 0.30 to 1.17; p < 0.001; I2 = 76.5%), as well as lower kynurenic acid (SMD = -0.37; 95%CI: -0.59 to -0.15; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%) blood levels, as compared to HCs. Despite some limitations, our work provides preliminary evidence on KP alterations in ADHD that may suggest decreased neuroprotection. Further research is needed to clarify the role of the KP in ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Cavaleri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (D.C.); (C.C.); (P.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Cristina Crocamo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (D.C.); (C.C.); (P.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Pietro Morello
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (D.C.); (C.C.); (P.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Francesco Bartoli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (D.C.); (C.C.); (P.M.); (F.B.)
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy; (D.C.); (C.C.); (P.M.); (F.B.)
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House 149, London W1T 7BN, UK
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Bednarz K, Kozieł K, Urbańska EM. Novel Activity of Oral Hypoglycemic Agents Linked with Decreased Formation of Tryptophan Metabolite, Kynurenic Acid. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:127. [PMID: 38255742 PMCID: PMC10820136 DOI: 10.3390/life14010127] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Kynurenic acid is a tryptophan (Trp) metabolite formed along the kynurenine (KYN) pathway in the brain and in peripheral tissues. The disturbed formation of kynurenic acid, which targets glutamate-mediated neurotransmission, GPR35, and aryl hydrocarbon receptors of immune or redox status, was implicated in the development of neuropsychiatric and metabolic disorders among others. Kynurenic acid exerts neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects, yet its high brain levels may negatively impact cognition. Changes in the Trp-KYN pathway are also linked with the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus, which is an established risk factor for cardiovascular and neurological diseases or cognitive deficits. Here, the effects of metformin and glibenclamide on the brain synthesis of kynurenic acid were evaluated. Acute exposure of rat cortical slices in vitro to either of the drugs reduced kynurenic acid production de novo. Glibenclamide, but not metformin, inhibited the activity of kynurenic acid biosynthetic enzymes, kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs) I and II, in semi-purified cortical homogenates. The reduced availability of kynurenic acid may be regarded as an unwanted effect, possibly alleviating the neuroprotective action of oral hypoglycemic agents. On the other hand, considering that both compounds ameliorate the cognitive deficits in animal and human studies and that high brain kynurenic acid may hamper learning and memory, its diminished synthesis may improve cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ewa M. Urbańska
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Chair and Department of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology, Medical University, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.B.)
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Lemieux GA, Yoo S, Lin L, Vohra M, Ashrafi K. The steroid hormone ADIOL promotes learning by reducing neural kynurenic acid levels. Genes Dev 2023; 37:998-1016. [PMID: 38092521 PMCID: PMC10760639 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350745.123] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Reductions in brain kynurenic acid levels, a neuroinhibitory metabolite, improve cognitive function in diverse organisms. Thus, modulation of kynurenic acid levels is thought to have therapeutic potential in a range of brain disorders. Here we report that the steroid 5-androstene 3β, 17β-diol (ADIOL) reduces kynurenic acid levels and promotes associative learning in Caenorhabditis elegans We identify the molecular mechanisms through which ADIOL links peripheral metabolic pathways to neural mechanisms of learning capacity. Moreover, we show that in aged animals, which normally experience rapid cognitive decline, ADIOL improves learning capacity. The molecular mechanisms that underlie the biosynthesis of ADIOL as well as those through which it promotes kynurenic acid reduction are conserved in mammals. Thus, rather than a minor intermediate in the production of sex steroids, ADIOL is an endogenous hormone that potently regulates learning capacity by causing reductions in neural kynurenic acid levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Lemieux
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Shinja Yoo
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Mihir Vohra
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Kaveh Ashrafi
- Department of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
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Stone TW, Williams RO. Tryptophan metabolism as a 'reflex' feature of neuroimmune communication: Sensor and effector functions for the indoleamine-2, 3-dioxygenase kynurenine pathway. J Neurochem 2023. [PMID: 38102897 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16015] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Although the central nervous system (CNS) and immune system were regarded as independent entities, it is now clear that immune system cells can influence the CNS, and neuroglial activity influences the immune system. Despite the many clinical implications for this 'neuroimmune interface', its detailed operation at the molecular level remains unclear. This narrative review focuses on the metabolism of tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway, since its products have critical actions in both the nervous and immune systems, placing it in a unique position to influence neuroimmune communication. In particular, since the kynurenine pathway is activated by pro-inflammatory mediators, it is proposed that physical and psychological stressors are the stimuli of an organismal protective reflex, with kynurenine metabolites as the effector arm co-ordinating protective neural and immune system responses. After a brief review of the neuroimmune interface, the general perception of tryptophan metabolism along the kynurenine pathway is expanded to emphasize this environmentally driven perspective. The initial enzymes in the kynurenine pathway include indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1), which is induced by tissue damage, inflammatory mediators or microbial products, and tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), which is induced by stress-induced glucocorticoids. In the immune system, kynurenic acid modulates leucocyte differentiation, inflammatory balance and immune tolerance by activating aryl hydrocarbon receptors and modulates pain via the GPR35 protein. In the CNS, quinolinic acid activates N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-sensitive glutamate receptors, whereas kynurenic acid is an antagonist: the balance between glutamate, quinolinic acid and kynurenic acid is a significant regulator of CNS function and plasticity. The concept of kynurenine and its metabolites as mediators of a reflex coordinated protection against stress helps to understand the variety and breadth of their activity. It should also help to understand the pathological origin of some psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases involving the immune system and CNS, facilitating the development of new pharmacological strategies for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard O Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Marković M, Petronijević N, Stašević M, Stašević Karličić I, Velimirović M, Stojković T, Ristić S, Stojković M, Milić N, Nikolić T. Decreased Plasma Levels of Kynurenine and Kynurenic Acid in Previously Treated and First-Episode Antipsychotic-Naive Schizophrenia Patients. Cells 2023; 12:2814. [PMID: 38132134 PMCID: PMC10741951 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242814] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan (TRP) catabolites exert neuroactive effects, with the plethora of evidence suggesting that kynurenic acid (KYNA), a catabolite of the kynurenine pathway (KP), acts as the regulator of glutamate and acetylcholine in the brain, contributing to the schizophrenia pathophysiology. Newer evidence regarding measures of KP metabolites in the blood of schizophrenia patients and from the central nervous system suggest that blood levels of these metabolites by no means could reflect pathological changes of TRP degradation in the brain. The aim of this study was to investigate plasma concentrations of TRP, kynurenine (KYN) and KYNA at the acute phase and remission of schizophrenia in a prospective, case-control study of highly selected and matched schizophrenia patients and healthy individuals. Our study revealed significantly decreased KYN and KYNA in schizophrenia patients (p < 0.001), irrespective of illness state, type of antipsychotic treatment, number of episodes or illness duration and no differences in the KYN/TRP ratio between schizophrenia patients and healthy individuals. These findings could be interpreted as indices that kynurenine pathway might not be dysregulated in the periphery and that other factors contribute to observed disturbances in concentrations, but as our study had certain limitations, we cannot draw definite conclusions. Further studies, especially those exploring other body compartments that participate in kynurenine pathway, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miloš Marković
- Clinic for Mental Disorders “Dr Laza Lazarević”, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.S.); (I.S.K.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.P.); (M.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Nataša Petronijević
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.P.); (M.V.); (T.S.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Milena Stašević
- Clinic for Mental Disorders “Dr Laza Lazarević”, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.S.); (I.S.K.)
| | - Ivana Stašević Karličić
- Clinic for Mental Disorders “Dr Laza Lazarević”, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.S.); (I.S.K.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Priština—Kosovska Mitrovica, 38220 Kosovska Mitrovica, Serbia
| | - Milica Velimirović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.P.); (M.V.); (T.S.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Tihomir Stojković
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.P.); (M.V.); (T.S.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Slavica Ristić
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Mina Stojković
- Clinic for Neurology, University Clinical Centre of Niš, 18000 Niš, Serbia;
| | - Nataša Milić
- Institute for Medical Statistics and Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
- Department for Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Tatjana Nikolić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (N.P.); (M.V.); (T.S.)
- Institute of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
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Sordillo LA, Sordillo PP. Suppression of Kynurenine 3-Monooxygenase as a Treatment for Triple-negative Breast Carcinoma. Anticancer Res 2023; 43:5275-5282. [PMID: 38030171 DOI: 10.21873/anticanres.16731] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO), a key enzyme within the kynurenine (KYN) pathway of tryptophan (TRY) metabolism, enables the excess production of toxic metabolites (such as 3-hydroxykynurenine, xanthurenic acid, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid and quinolinic acid), and modulates the balance between these toxic molecules and the protective metabolite, kynurenic acid (KYNA). Despite its importance, KMO suppression as a treatment for cancer has not been fully explored. Instead, researchers have focused on prevention of KYN pathway activity by inhibition of enzymes indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1 and IDO2) or tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO, also known as TDO2). However, studies using IDO/TDO inhibitors against cancer have not yet shown that this type of treatment can be successful. We argue that KMO suppression can be an effective strategy for treatment of cancer by 1) decreasing toxic metabolites within the KYN pathway and 2) increasing levels of KYNA, which has important protective and anticancer properties. This strategy may be beneficial in the treatment of aggressive breast cancer, particularly in patients with triple-negative breast cancer. A major challenge to this strategy, when searching for an effective treatment for tumors, especially tumors like breast carcinoma that often metastasize to the brain, is finding KMO inhibitors that adequately cross the blood-brain barrier.
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Knapskog AB, Aksnes M, Edwin TH, Ueland PM, Ulvik A, Fang EF, Eldholm RS, Halaas NB, Saltvedt I, Giil LM, Watne LO. Higher concentrations of kynurenic acid in CSF are associated with the slower clinical progression of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:5573-5582. [PMID: 37264981 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13162] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The kynurenine pathway's (KP) malfunction is closely related to Alzheimer's disease (AD), for antagonistic kynurenic acid (KA) and agonistic quinolinic acid act on the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, a possible therapeutic target in treating AD. METHODS In our longitudinal case-control study, KP metabolites in the cerebrospinal fluid were analyzed in 311 patients with AD and 105 cognitively unimpaired controls. RESULTS Patients with AD exhibited higher concentrations of KA (β = 0.18, P < 0.01) and picolinic acid (β = 0.20, P < 0.01) than the controls. KA was positively associated with tau pathology (β = 0.29, P < 0.01), and a higher concentration of KA was associated with the slower progression of dementia. DISCUSSION The higher concentrations of neuroprotective metabolites KA and picolinic acid suggest that the activation of the KP's neuroprotective branch is an adaptive response in AD and may be a promising target for intervention and treatment. Highlights Patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) exhibited higher concentrations of kynurenic acid and picolinic acid than controls. Higher concentrations of kynurenic acid were associated with slower progression of AD. Potential neurotoxic kynurenines were not increased among patients with AD. Activation of the kynurenine pathway's neuroprotective branch may be an adaptive response in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mari Aksnes
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trine Holt Edwin
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | - Evandro Fei Fang
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, University of Oslo and Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- The Norwegian Centre on Healthy Ageing (NO-Age), University of Oslo and Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Rannveig Sakshaug Eldholm
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Ingvild Saltvedt
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lasse M Giil
- Neuro-SysMed, Department of Internal Medicine, Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Leiv Otto Watne
- Oslo Delirium Research Group, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Campus Ahus, University of Oslo, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
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Chen P, Geng X. Research progress on the kynurenine pathway in the prevention and treatment of Parkinson's disease. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2225800. [PMID: 37381707 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2225800] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterised by progressive death of dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and pathological accumulation of α-synuclein fibrils, as well as central nervous system inflammation. Elevated levels of central inflammatory factors in PD disrupt the kynurenine pathway (KP) and favour the activation of excitotoxic branches, leading to a significant reduction in the neuroprotective metabolite kynurenic acid (KYNA) and a significant increase in the neurotoxic metabolite quinolinic acid (QUIN), which exacerbates excitotoxicity and amplifies the inflammatory response, closely related to the occurrence and development of PD. KYNA analogs, precursor drugs, and KP enzyme modulators may represent a new therapeutic strategy for PD. This article reviews the role of KP in the neurodegenerative pathology of PD and its prevention and treatment, aiming to provide necessary theoretical basis and new ideas for the study of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying PD-related behavioural dysfunction and targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Chen
- College of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
| | - Xiaofei Geng
- College of Physical Education, Hebei Normal University for Nationalities, Hebei, China
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Ovalle Rodríguez P, Ramírez Ortega D, Blanco Ayala T, Roldán Roldán G, Pérez de la Cruz G, González Esquivel DF, Gómez-Manzo S, Sánchez Chapul L, Salazar A, Pineda B, Pérez de la Cruz V. Modulation of Kynurenic Acid Production by N-acetylcysteine Prevents Cognitive Impairment in Adulthood Induced by Lead Exposure during Lactation in Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:2035. [PMID: 38136155 PMCID: PMC10740504 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12122035] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb2+) exposure during early life induces cognitive impairment, which was recently associated with an increase in brain kynurenic acid (KYNA), an antagonist of NMDA and alpha-7 nicotinic receptors. It has been described that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) favors an antioxidant environment and inhibits kynurenine aminotransferase II activity (KAT II, the main enzyme of KYNA production), leading to brain KYNA levels decrease and cognitive improvement. This study aimed to investigate whether the NAC modulation of the brain KYNA levels in mice ameliorated Pb2+-induced cognitive impairment. The dams were divided into four groups: Control, Pb2+, NAC, and Pb2++NAC, which were given drinking water or 500 ppm lead acetate in the drinking water ad libitum, from 0 to 23 postnatal days (PNDs). The NAC and Pb2++NAC groups were simultaneously fed NAC (350 mg/day) in their chow from 0 to 23 PNDs. At PND 60, the effect of the treatment with Pb2+ and in combination with NAC on learning and memory performance was evaluated. Immediately after behavioral evaluation, brain tissues were collected to assess the redox environment; KYNA and glutamate levels; and KAT II activity. The NAC treatment prevented the long-term memory deficit exhibited in the Pb2+ group. As expected, Pb2+ group showed redox environment alterations, fluctuations in glutamate levels, and an increase in KYNA levels, which were partially avoided by NAC co-administration. These results confirmed that the excessive KYNA levels induced by Pb2+ were involved in the onset of cognitive impairment and could be successfully prevented by NAC treatment. NAC could be a tool for testing in scenarios in which KYNA levels are associated with the induction of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Ovalle Rodríguez
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
- Posgrado en Ciencias Bioquímicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Unidad de Posgrado, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Daniela Ramírez Ortega
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Tonali Blanco Ayala
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Gabriel Roldán Roldán
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología de la Conducta, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Gonzalo Pérez de la Cruz
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México UNAM, Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Dinora Fabiola González Esquivel
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
| | - Saúl Gómez-Manzo
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica Genética, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Secretaría de Salud, Mexico City 04530, Mexico;
| | - Laura Sánchez Chapul
- Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, Clinical Neurosciences Division, National Institute of Rehabilitation “Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra”, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Aleli Salazar
- Neuroimmunology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (A.S.); (B.P.)
| | - Benjamín Pineda
- Neuroimmunology Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (A.S.); (B.P.)
| | - Verónica Pérez de la Cruz
- Neurochemistry and Behavior Laboratory, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery “Manuel Velasco Suárez”, Mexico City 14269, Mexico; (P.O.R.); (D.R.O.); (T.B.A.); (D.F.G.E.)
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12
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Sadok I, Jędruchniewicz K. Dietary Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites-Source, Fate, and Chromatographic Determinations. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16304. [PMID: 38003492 PMCID: PMC10671297 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216304] [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: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan metabolism plays an essential role in human health. In mammals, about 95% of dietary tryptophan is metabolized through the kynurenine pathway, which is associated with the development of several pathologies, including neurodegeneration. Some of the kynurenine pathway metabolites are agonists of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor involved in metabolic functions, inflammation, and carcinogenesis. Thus, their origins, fates, and roles are of widespread interest. Except for being produced endogenously, these metabolites can originate from exogenous sources (e.g., food) and undergo absorption in the digestive tract. Recently, a special focus on exogenous sources of tryptophan metabolites was observed. This overview summarizes current knowledge about the occurrence of the kynurenine pathway metabolites (kynurenines) in food and the analytical method utilized for their determination in different food matrices. Special attention was paid to sample preparation and chromatographic analysis, which has proven to be a core technique for the detection and quantification of kynurenines. A discussion of the fate and role of dietary kynurenines has also been addressed. This review will, hopefully, guide further studies on the impact of dietary kynurenines on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Sadok
- Laboratory of Separation and Spectroscopic Method Applications, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, 20-708 Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Jędruchniewicz
- Laboratory of Separation and Spectroscopic Method Applications, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, 20-708 Lublin, Poland;
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13
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Fan S, Guo W, Xiao D, Guan M, Liao T, Peng S, Feng A, Wang Z, Yin H, Li M, Chen J, Xiong W. Microbiota-gut-brain axis drives overeating disorders. Cell Metab 2023; 35:2011-2027.e7. [PMID: 37794596 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2023.09.005] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Overeating disorders (ODs), usually stemming from dieting history and stress, remain a pervasive issue in contemporary society, with the pathological mechanisms largely unresolved. Here, we show that alterations in intestinal microbiota are responsible for the excessive intake of palatable foods in OD mice and patients with bulimia nervosa (BN). Stress combined with a history of dieting causes significant changes in the microbiota and the intestinal metabolism, which disinhibit the vagus nerve terminals in the gut and thereby lead to a subsequent hyperactivation of the gut-brain axis passing through the vagus, the solitary tract nucleus, and the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus. The transplantation of a probiotic Faecalibacterium prausnitzii or dietary supplement of key metabolites restores the activity of the gut-to-brain pathway and thereby alleviates the OD symptoms. Thus, our study delineates how the microbiota-gut-brain axis mediates energy balance, unveils the underlying pathogenesis of the OD, and provides potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Fan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Weiwei Guo
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Dan Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Mengyuan Guan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Tiepeng Liao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Intelligent Processing, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei 230088, China
| | - Sufang Peng
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Airong Feng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Ziyi Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Hao Yin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Jue Chen
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Intelligent Processing, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei 230088, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Aging Research, Hefei 230026, China.
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14
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Zakrocka I, Kocki T, Urbańska E, Załuska W. Effects of Fenofibrate and Gemfibrozil on Kynurenic Acid Production in Rat Kidneys In Vitro: Old Drugs, New Properties. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2154. [PMID: 38004294 PMCID: PMC10672417 DOI: 10.3390/life13112154] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Kidney dysfunction significantly increases the cardiovascular risk, even in cases of minor functional declines. Hypertriglyceridemia is the most common lipid abnormality reported in patients with kidney disorders. PPAR-α (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α) agonists called fibrates are the main agents used to lower triglyceride levels. Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a tryptophan (Trp) derivative directly formed from L-kynurenine (L-KYN) by kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs). KYNA is classified as a uremic toxin, the level of which is correlated with kidney function impairments and lipid abnormalities. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of the most commonly used triglyceride-lowering drugs, fenofibrate and gemfibrozil, on KYNA production and KAT activity in rat kidneys in vitro. The influence of fenofibrate and gemfibrozil on KYNA formation and KAT activity was tested in rat kidney homogenates in vitro. Fenofibrate and gemfibrozil at 100 µM-1 mM significantly inhibited KYNA synthesis in rat kidney homogenates. Both fibrates directly affected the KAT I and KAT II isoenzyme activities in a dose-dependent manner at similar concentrations. The presented results reveal the novel mechanism of action of fibrates in the kidneys and suggest their potential role in kidney function protection beyond the well-known anti-hyperlipidemic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Zakrocka
- Department of Nephrology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego Street 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Kocki
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (T.K.); (E.U.)
| | - Ewa Urbańska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (T.K.); (E.U.)
| | - Wojciech Załuska
- Department of Nephrology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego Street 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
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Gao Y, Guo X, Zhou Y, Du J, Lu C, Zhang L, Sun S, Wang S, Li Y. Kynurenic acid inhibits macrophage pyroptosis by suppressing ROS production via activation of the NRF2 pathway. Mol Med Rep 2023; 28:211. [PMID: 37772394 PMCID: PMC10552067 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2023.13098] [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: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophage pyroptosis and related inflammatory responses play an important role in periodontitis. Kynurenic acid (KA) is hypothesized to have anti‑inflammatory potential, but whether KA can inhibit macrophage pyroptosis and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce pyroptosis in THP‑1‑derived macrophages. KA or ML385 was used to pretreat macrophages, after which, cell viability, NOD‑like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome‑related protein expression, oxidative stress levels and nuclear factor erythroid 2‑related factor 2 (NRF2) expression were measured. The results showed that KA improved the LPS‑induced decrease in macrophage viability and lactate dehydrogenase release. KA prevented THP‑1 macrophage pyroptosis induced by LPS by reducing the expression of NLRP3, Gasdermin‑D, and Caspase1, and decreased the expression of inflammatory factors. KA suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inhibiting ROS overproduction and increasing Heme Oxygenase 1 and glutathione levels. Moreover, KA promoted NRF2 translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. In addition, the anti‑pyroptotic and antioxidant effects of KA were reversed by ML385 inhibition of NRF2. In the present study, it was found that KA significantly suppressed macrophage pyroptosis induced by LPS. It was further demonstrated that the anti‑pyroptotic effects of KA were mediated by activation of the NRF2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Gao
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Jiamusi University Affiliated Stomatological Hospital, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang 154000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohui Guo
- Department of Pathology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, P.R. China
| | - Yunpeng Zhou
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Baodi Hospital, Baodi Clinical College of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300203, P.R. China
| | - Jie Du
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
| | - Chengbo Lu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang 154002, P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, People's Hospital of Taihe County, Taihe, Anhui 236600, P.R. China
| | - Siyuan Sun
- Department of Cardiology, People's Hospital of Taihe County, Taihe, Anhui 236600, P.R. China
| | - Shengfang Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P.R. China
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Yildirim V, Simsek S, Cetin I, Dokuyucu R. Kynurenine, Kynurenic Acid, Quinolinic Acid and Interleukin-6 Levels in the Serum of Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1906. [PMID: 38003955 PMCID: PMC10673218 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59111906] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: It is known that inflammatory processes play a role in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is also reported that immune activation induces the kynurenine pathway (KP), as known as the tryptophan destruction pathway. In our study, we aimed to investigate whether the serum levels of KP products and interleukin (IL)-6 activating indolamine 2-3 dioxygenase (IDO) enzyme are different in healthy developing children and children with ASD. Materials and Methods: Forty-three ASD children aged 2-9 were included in this study. Forty-two healthy developing children, similar to the patient group in terms of age and gender, were selected as the control group. Serum levels of kynurenic acid, kynurenine, quinolinic acid and IL-6 were analyzed using the ELISA method. ASD severity was evaluated with the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC). Results: The mean age of children with ASD was 42.4 ± 20.5 months, and that of healthy controls was 48.1 ± 15.8 months. While the serum levels of kynurenic acid, kynurenine and interleukin-6 were higher in the group with ASD (p < 0.05), there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in terms of the quinolinic acid level. There was no significant difference between the ABC total and subscale scores of children with ASD and biochemical parameters (p > 0.05). Conclusions: We conclude that these biomarkers must be measured in all ASD cases. They may be important for the diagnosis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veli Yildirim
- Special Clinic, Department of Child Psychiatry, Yenişehir, Mersin 33110, Turkey;
| | - Seref Simsek
- Special Clinic, Department of Child Psychiatry, Antalya 07000, Turkey;
| | - Ihsan Cetin
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Batman University, Batman 72040, Turkey;
| | - Recep Dokuyucu
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Atlas University, Istanbul 34413, Turkey
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Jansma J, Chatziioannou AC, Castricum K, van Hemert S, El Aidy S. Metabolic network construction reveals probiotic-specific alterations in the metabolic activity of a synthetic small intestinal community. mSystems 2023; 8:e0033223. [PMID: 37668401 PMCID: PMC10654062 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00332-23] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The development of probiotic therapies targeted at the small intestinal microbiota represents a significant advancement in the field of probiotic interventions. This region poses unique opportunities due to its low number of gut microbiota, along with the presence of heightened immune and metabolic host responses. However, progress in this area has been hindered by a lack of detailed understanding regarding the molecular mechanisms through which probiotics exert their effects in the small intestine. Our study, utilizing a synthetic community of three small intestinal bacterial strains and the addition of two different probiotic species, and kynurenine as a representative dietary or endogenously produced compound, highlights the importance of selecting probiotic species with diverse genetic capabilities that complement the functional capacity of the resident microbiota, or alternatively, constructing a multispecies formula. This approach holds great promise for the development of effective probiotic therapies and underscores the need to consider the functional capacity of probiotic species when designing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Jansma
- Host-Microbe Interactions, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB), University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Sahar El Aidy
- Host-Microbe Interactions, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB), University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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18
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Basson C, Serem JC, Hlophe YN, Bipath P. An in vitro investigation of l-kynurenine, quinolinic acid, and kynurenic acid on B16 F10 melanoma cell cytotoxicity and morphology. Cell Biochem Funct 2023; 41:912-922. [PMID: 37661337 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3843] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
The metastatic behavior of melanoma has accentuated the need for specific therapy targets. Compounds, namely l-kynurenine ( l-kyn), quinolinic acid (Quin), and kynurenic acid (KA) previously displayed antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects in vitro against cancer cells. Despite the growing interest in these compounds there are limited studies examining the in vitro effects on melanoma. In B16 F10 melanoma cells, RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, and HaCat keratinocyte cells, postexposure to the compounds, crystal violet staining was used to determine the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50 ), whereas polarization-optical transmitted light differential interference contrast and light microscopy after hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to assess morphological changes. l-kyn, Quin, and KA-induced cytotoxicity in all cell lines, with l-kyn being the most cytotoxic compound. l-kyn and KA at IC50 -induced morphological changes in B16 F10, RAW 264.7, and HaCat cell lines, whereas Quin had effects on B16 F10 and RAW 264.7 cells but did not affect HaCat cells. l-kyn, Quin, and KA each display different levels of cytotoxicity, which were cell line specific. l-kyn was shown to be the most potent compound against all cell lines and may offer future treatment strategies when combined with other viable treatments against melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlise Basson
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - June Cheptoo Serem
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yvette Nkondo Hlophe
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Priyesh Bipath
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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19
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Kamel R, Baetz D, Gueguen N, Lebeau L, Barbelivien A, Guihot AL, Allawa L, Gallet J, Beaumont J, Ovize M, Henrion D, Reynier P, Mirebeau-Prunier D, Prunier F, Tamareille S. Kynurenic Acid: A Novel Player in Cardioprotection against Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injuries. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1381. [PMID: 37895852 PMCID: PMC10610491 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101381] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocardial infarction is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide; hence, there is an urgent need to discover novel cardioprotective strategies. Kynurenic acid (KYNA), a metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, has been previously reported to have cardioprotective effects. However, the mechanisms by which KYNA may be protective are still unclear. The current study addressed this issue by investigating KYNA's cardioprotective effect in the context of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion. METHODS H9C2 cells and rats were exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation or myocardial infarction, respectively, in the presence or absence of KYNA. In vitro, cell death was quantified using flow cytometry analysis of propidium iodide staining. In vivo, TTC-Evans Blue staining was performed to evaluate infarct size. Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activities were measured using spectrophotometry. Protein expression was evaluated by Western blot, and mRNA levels by RT-qPCR. RESULTS KYNA treatment significantly reduced H9C2-relative cell death as well as infarct size. KYNA did not exhibit any effect on the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activity. SOD2 mRNA levels were increased by KYNA. A decrease in p62 protein levels together with a trend of increase in PARK2 may mark a stimulation of mitophagy. Additionally, ERK1/2, Akt, and FOXO3α phosphorylation levels were significantly reduced after the KYNA treatment. Altogether, KYNA significantly reduced myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injuries in both in vitro and in vivo models. CONCLUSION Here we show that KYNA-mediated cardioprotection was associated with enhanced mitophagy and antioxidant defense. A deeper understanding of KYNA's cardioprotective mechanisms is necessary to identify promising novel therapeutic targets and their translation into the clinical arena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima Kamel
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
| | - Delphine Baetz
- Laboratoire CarMeN, INSERM U1060, INRA U1397, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F-69500 Bron, France; (D.B.); (M.O.)
| | - Naïg Gueguen
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Angers, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Lucie Lebeau
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
| | - Agnès Barbelivien
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
| | - Anne-Laure Guihot
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
| | - Louwana Allawa
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
| | - Jean Gallet
- Service de Cardiologie, CHU Angers, F-49000 Angers, France;
| | - Justine Beaumont
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
| | - Michel Ovize
- Laboratoire CarMeN, INSERM U1060, INRA U1397, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F-69500 Bron, France; (D.B.); (M.O.)
- Service d’Explorations Fonctionnelles Cardiovasculaires & CIC de Lyon, Hôpital Louis Pradel, Hospices Civils de Lyon, F-69000 Lyon, France
| | - Daniel Henrion
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
| | - Pascal Reynier
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Angers, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Delphine Mirebeau-Prunier
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, CHU Angers, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Fabrice Prunier
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
- Service de Cardiologie, CHU Angers, F-49000 Angers, France;
| | - Sophie Tamareille
- MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Université d’Angers, F-49000 Angers, France; (R.K.); (N.G.); (L.L.); (A.-L.G.); (L.A.); (D.H.); (P.R.); (D.M.-P.); (F.P.)
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20
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Amir Poursaeed A, Jahani S, Moradalizadeh M, Shahidi Zandi M, Foroughi MM. Electrochemical detection of kynurenic acid in the presence of tryptophan with the carbon paste electrode modified with the flower-like nanostructures of zinc oxide doped with terbium. Front Chem 2023; 11:1250994. [PMID: 37810586 PMCID: PMC10556251 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1250994] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
With the help of a hydrothermal approach in this study, we could provide flower-like nanostructures (NSs) of zinc oxide (ZnO) doped with Tb (FL-NS Tb3+/ZnO). Then, FL-NS Tb3+/ZnO morphology was investigated by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and map analysis. The results revealed higher activity centers and porosity of this nanocomposite, which were followed by acceptable electrochemical function. Hence, it can be utilized for fabricating an electrochemical sensor with an appropriate response for the simultaneous determination of kynurenic acid (KYN) and tryptophan (TRP). However, as compared with the modified carbon paste electrode (FL-NS Tb3+/ZnO/CPE), the bare carbon paste electrode (BCPE) exhibited a weak response toward KYN and TRP but the modified electrode was followed by a high current response for KYN and TRP at a potential 0.35 and 0.809 V. Therefore, cyclic voltammetry (CV) was applied in optimal experimental conditions to study the electrochemical behaviors of KYN and TRP over the surface of the proposed modified electrode. Moreover, we used differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) for quantitative measurements. It was found that this new modified electrode linearly ranged from 0.001 to 700.0 μM, with detection limits of 0.34 nM and 0.22 nM for KYN and TRP, respectively. In addition, KYN and TRP in real samples can be analyzed by this sensor, with a recovery of 97.75%-103.6% for the spiked KYN and TRP in real samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Amir Poursaeed
- Department of Chemistry, Kerman Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kerman, Iran
| | - Shohreh Jahani
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam, Iran
| | | | - Mehdi Shahidi Zandi
- Department of Chemistry, Kerman Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kerman, Iran
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21
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Juhász Á, Ungor D, Varga N, Katona G, Balogh GT, Csapó E. Lipid-Based Nanocarriers for Delivery of Neuroprotective Kynurenic Acid: Preparation, Characterization, and BBB Transport. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14251. [PMID: 37762551 PMCID: PMC10531491 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814251] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Encapsulation possibilities of an extensively investigated neuroprotective drug (kynurenic acid, KYNA) are studied via lipid-based nanocarriers to increase the blood-brain barrier (BBB) specific permeability. The outcomes of various preparation conditions such as stirring and sonication time, concentration of the lipid carriers and the drug, and the drug-to-lipid ratio are examined. Considering the experimentally determined encapsulation efficiency, hydrodynamic diameter, and ζ-potential values, the initial lipid and drug concentration as well as the stirring and sonication time of the preparation were optimized. The average hydrodynamic diameter of the prepared asolectin-(LIP) and water-soluble lipopolymer (WSLP)-based liposomes was found to be ca. 25 and 60 nm under physiological conditions. The physicochemical characterization of the colloidal carriers proves that the preparation of the drug-loaded liposomes was a successful process, and secondary interactions were indicated between the drug molecule and the polymer residues around the WSLP membrane. Dissolution profiles of the active molecule under physiological conditions were registered, and the release of the unformulated and encapsulated drug is very similar. In addition to this outcome, the in vitro polar brain lipid extract (porcine)-based permeability test proved the achievement of two- or fourfold higher BBB specific penetration and lipid membrane retention for KYNA in the liposomal carriers relative to the unformatted drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ádám Juhász
- Interdisciplinary Excellence Center, Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. Sqr. 1, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
- MTA-SZTE Lendület “Momentum” Noble Metal Nanostructures Research Group, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. Sqr. 1, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Ditta Ungor
- MTA-SZTE Lendület “Momentum” Noble Metal Nanostructures Research Group, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. Sqr. 1, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Norbert Varga
- Interdisciplinary Excellence Center, Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. Sqr. 1, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
- MTA-SZTE Lendület “Momentum” Noble Metal Nanostructures Research Group, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. Sqr. 1, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Gábor Katona
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Regulatory Affairs, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Eötvös Str. 6, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - György T. Balogh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre út 9, H-1092 Budapest, Hungary;
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Process Engineering, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Műegyetem Rakpart 3, H-1111 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Edit Csapó
- Interdisciplinary Excellence Center, Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. Sqr. 1, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
- MTA-SZTE Lendület “Momentum” Noble Metal Nanostructures Research Group, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. Sqr. 1, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary;
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22
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Miyamoto K, Sujino T, Harada Y, Ashida H, Yoshimatsu Y, Yonemoto Y, Nemoto Y, Tomura M, Melhem H, Niess JH, Suzuki T, Suzuki T, Suzuki S, Koda Y, Okamoto R, Mikami Y, Teratani T, Tanaka KF, Yoshimura A, Sato T, Kanai T. The gut microbiota-induced kynurenic acid recruits GPR35-positive macrophages to promote experimental encephalitis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113005. [PMID: 37590143 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113005] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The intricate interplay between gut microbes and the onset of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) remains poorly understood. Here, we uncover remarkable similarities between CD4+ T cells in the spinal cord and their counterparts in the small intestine. Furthermore, we unveil a synergistic relationship between the microbiota, particularly enriched with the tryptophan metabolism gene EC:1.13.11.11, and intestinal cells. This symbiotic collaboration results in the biosynthesis of kynurenic acid (KYNA), which modulates the recruitment and aggregation of GPR35-positive macrophages. Subsequently, a robust T helper 17 (Th17) immune response is activated, ultimately triggering the onset of EAE. Conversely, modulating the KYNA-mediated GPR35 signaling in Cx3cr1+ macrophages leads to a remarkable amelioration of EAE. These findings shed light on the crucial role of microbial-derived tryptophan metabolites in regulating immune responses within extraintestinal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Miyamoto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Research Laboratory, 1-10-3, Kaminagazato, Kita-ku, Tokyo 114-0016, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Sujino
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
| | - Yosuke Harada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ashida
- Department of Bacterial Infection and Host Response, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan; Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, 1-8-1, Inohana, Cyuo-ku, Chiba city, Chiba 260-8673, Japan
| | - Yusuke Yoshimatsu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yuki Yonemoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Nemoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Michio Tomura
- Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Osaka Otani University, 3-11-1 Nshikiorikita, Tondabayshi, Osaka, 584-8584, Japan
| | - Hassan Melhem
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Hendrik Niess
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Clarunis-University Center for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, University Hospital Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Toshihiko Suzuki
- Department of Bacterial Infection and Host Response, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Toru Suzuki
- Division of Brain Sciences Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicne, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shohei Suzuki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yuzo Koda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Okamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tokyo Medical Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45, Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Yohei Mikami
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Teratani
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kenji F. Tanaka
- Division of Brain Sciences Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicne, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Akihiko Yoshimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Toshiro Sato
- Department of Organoid Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Takanori Kanai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; AMED-CREST, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, 1-7-1, Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan.
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23
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Zheng YR, Tufvesson-Alm M, Trepci A, Imbeault S, Li XQ, Schwieler L, Engberg G, Erhardt S. Dual administration of lipopolysaccharide induces behavioural changes in rats relevant to psychotic disorders. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37592805 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2023.40] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We previously reported that dual injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice constitute a valuable tool for investigating the contribution of inflammation to psychotic disorders. The present study investigated how immune activation affects the kynurenine pathway and rat behaviour of relevance for psychotic disorders. METHODS Male Sprague Dawley rats were treated with either dual injections of LPS (0.5 mg/kg + 0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or dual injections of saline. Twenty-four hours after the second injection, behavioural tests were carried out, including locomotor activity test, fear conditioning test, spontaneous alternation Y-maze test, and novel object recognition test. In a separate batch of animals, in vivo striatal microdialysis was performed, and tryptophan, kynurenine, quinolinic acid, and kynurenic acid (KYNA) in the dialysate were measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). RESULTS Dual-LPS treatment decreased spontaneous locomotion, exaggerated d-amphetamine-induced locomotor activity, and impaired recognition memory in male Sprague-Dawley rats. In vivo microdialysis showed that dual-LPS treatment elicited metabolic disturbances in the kynurenine pathway with increased extracellular levels of kynurenine and KYNA in the striatum. CONCLUSION The present study further supports the feasibility of using the dual-LPS model to investigate inflammation-related psychotic disorders and cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ran Zheng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Ada Trepci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Imbeault
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xue-Qi Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lilly Schwieler
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Göran Engberg
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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24
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Stone TW, Williams RO. Modulation of T cells by tryptophan metabolites in the kynurenine pathway. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:442-456. [PMID: 37248103 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Lymphocytes maturing in the thymus (T cells) are key factors in adaptive immunity and the regulation of inflammation. The kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism includes several enzymes and compounds that can modulate T cell function, but manipulating these pharmacologically has not achieved the expected therapeutic activity for the treatment of autoimmune disorders and cancer. With increasing knowledge of other pathways interacting with kynurenines, the expansion of screening methods, and the application of virtual techniques to understanding enzyme structures and mechanisms, details of interactions between kynurenines and other pathways are being revealed. This review surveys some of these alternative approaches to influence T cell function indirectly via the kynurenine pathway and summarizes the most recent work on the development of compounds acting directly on the kynurenine pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK
| | - Richard O Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK.
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25
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Stone TW, Williams RO. Interactions of IDO and the Kynurenine Pathway with Cell Transduction Systems and Metabolism at the Inflammation-Cancer Interface. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15112895. [PMID: 37296860 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying a relationship between inflammation and cancer are unclear, but much emphasis has been placed on the role of tryptophan metabolism to kynurenine and downstream metabolites, as these make a substantial contribution to the regulation of immune tolerance and susceptibility to cancer. The proposed link is supported by the induction of tryptophan metabolism by indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) or tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), in response to injury, infection or stress. This review will summarize the kynurenine pathway and will then focus on the bi-directional interactions with other transduction pathways and cancer-related factors. The kynurenine pathway can interact with and modify activity in many other transduction systems, potentially generating an extended web of effects other than the direct effects of kynurenine and its metabolites. Conversely, the pharmacological targeting of those other systems could greatly enhance the efficacy of changes in the kynurenine pathway. Indeed, manipulating those interacting pathways could affect inflammatory status and tumor development indirectly via the kynurenine pathway, while pharmacological modulation of the kynurenine pathway could indirectly influence anti-cancer protection. While current efforts are progressing to account for the failure of selective IDO1 inhibitors to inhibit tumor growth and to devise means of circumventing the issue, it is clear that there are wider factors involving the relationship between kynurenines and cancer that merit detailed consideration as alternative drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK
| | - Richard O Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK
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26
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Khetarpal V, Herbst T, Akhtar S, LaFayette A, Miller D, Farnham J, Steege T, Miao Z, Marks B, Ledvina A, Dominguez C. Validation of LC-MS/MS methods for quantitative analysis of kynurenine pathway metabolites in human plasma and cerebrospinal fluid. Bioanalysis 2023. [PMID: 37170582 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2023-0016] [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] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Dysregulation of the kynurenine metabolic pathway has been reported in several neurological conditions. Methods & results: Sensitive and selective LC-MS/MS methods have been validated for six kynurenine pathway metabolites in human cerebrospinal fluid and plasma. For each matrix, we validated three methods - one for the simultaneous determination of kynurenine, kynurenic acid, anthranilic acid and 3-hydroxy-kynurenine (four-analyte assay), one for quinolinic acid and one for tryptophan - using stable-isotopically labeled internal standards. The dynamic range and quantitation limits were based on endogenous concentrations for each analyte. Conclusion: The use of validated methods for kynurenine pathway metabolites in human cerebrospinal fluid and plasma will provide definitive information in neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod Khetarpal
- CHDI Management/CHDI Foundation, 6080 Center Drive, Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA
| | - Todd Herbst
- CHDI Management/CHDI Foundation, 6080 Center Drive, Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA
| | - Shahzad Akhtar
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - Amber LaFayette
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - Dennis Miller
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - James Farnham
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - Troy Steege
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - Zhixin Miao
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - Bryan Marks
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - Aaron Ledvina
- Labcorp Early Development Laboratories, Inc., 3301 Kinsman Boulevard, Madison, WI 53704, USA
| | - Celia Dominguez
- CHDI Management/CHDI Foundation, 6080 Center Drive, Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA
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27
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Auyeung A, Wang HC, Aravagiri K, Knezevic NN. Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites as Potential Biomarkers in Chronic Pain. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050681. [PMID: 37242464 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050681] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a pressing medical and socioeconomic issue worldwide. It is debilitating for individual patients and places a major burden on society in the forms of direct medical costs and lost work productivity. Various biochemical pathways have been explored to explain the pathophysiology of chronic pain in order to identify biomarkers that can potentially serve as both evaluators of and guides for therapeutic effectiveness. The kynurenine pathway has recently been a source of interest due to its suspected role in the development and sustainment of chronic pain conditions. The kynurenine pathway is the primary pathway responsible for the metabolization of tryptophan and generates nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), in addition to the metabolites kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KA), and quinolinic acid (QA). Dysregulation of this pathway and changes in the ratios of these metabolites have been associated with numerous neurotoxic and inflammatory states, many of which present simultaneously with chronic pain symptoms. While further studies utilizing biomarkers to elucidate the kynurenine pathway's role in chronic pain are needed, the metabolites and receptors involved in its processes nevertheless present researchers with promising sources of novel and personalized disease-modifying treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Auyeung
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA
| | - Hank C Wang
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Kannan Aravagiri
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
| | - Nebojsa Nick Knezevic
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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28
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Fernandes BS, Inam ME, Enduru N, Quevedo J, Zhao Z. The kynurenine pathway in Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of central and peripheral levels. Braz J Psychiatry 2023; 45:286-297. [PMID: 36754068 PMCID: PMC10288481 DOI: 10.47626/1516-4446-2022-2962] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Changes in the kynurenine pathway are recognized in psychiatric disorders, but their role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is less clear. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether tryptophan and kynurenine pathway metabolites are altered in AD. METHODS We performed a systematic review and random-effects meta-analyses. Inclusion criteria were studies that compared AD and cognitively normal (CN) groups and assessed tryptophan or kynurenine pathway metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid or peripheral blood. RESULTS Twenty-two studies with a total of 1,356 participants (664 with AD and 692 CN individuals) were included. Tryptophan was decreased only in peripheral blood. The kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratio was only increased in peripheral blood of the AD group. 3-Hydroxykynurenine was decreased only in cerebrospinal fluid and showed higher variability in the CN group than the AD group. Kynurenic acid was increased in cerebrospinal fluid and decreased in peripheral blood. Finally, there were no changes in kynurenine and quinolinic acid between the groups. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested a shift toward the kynurenine pathway in both the brain and in the periphery, as well as a shift towards increased kynurenic acid production in the brain but decreased production in peripheral blood. In addition, our analysis indicated dissociation between the central and peripheral levels, as well as between plasma and serum for some of these metabolites. Finally, changes in the kynurenine pathway are suggested to be a core component of AD. More studies are warranted to verify and consolidate our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brisa S. Fernandes
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mehmet Enes Inam
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nitesh Enduru
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joao Quevedo
- Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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29
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Abstract
The orphan G-protein-coupled receptor 35 (GPR35), although poorly characterised, is attracting considerable interest as a therapeutic target. Marked differences in pharmacology between human and rodent orthologues of the receptor and a dearth of antagonists with affinity for mouse and rat GPR35 have previously restricted the use of preclinical disease models. The development of improved ligands, novel transgenic knock-in mouse lines, and detailed analysis of the disease relevance of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have greatly enhanced understanding of the key roles of GPR35 and have stimulated efforts towards disease-targeted proof-of-concept studies. In this opinion article, new information on the biology of the receptor is considered, whilst insight into how GPR35 is currently being assessed for therapeutic utility - in areas ranging from inflammatory bowel diseases to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and various cancers - is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graeme Milligan
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.
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30
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Inam ME, Fernandes BS, Salagre E, Grande I, Vieta E, Quevedo J, Zhao Z. The kynurenine pathway in major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cerebrospinal fluid studies. Braz J Psychiatry 2023; 45. [PMID: 37127280 PMCID: PMC10668321 DOI: 10.47626/1516-4446-2022-2973] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The kynurenine pathway has been attracting attention as a relevant pathway in schizophrenia (SZ), bipolar disorder (BD), and major depressive disorder (MDD). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the kynurenine pathway metabolites from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples in SZ, BD, and MDD. METHODS PubMed and Scopus databases were systematically searched to identify peer-reviewed case-control studies until April 2022 that assessed kynurenine metabolites, namely, tryptophan (TRP), kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KA), quinolinic acid (QA), and 3- hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) in SZ, BD, or MDD subjects compared with healthy controls (HC). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. The random effects model method was selected when comparing the standardized mean differences (SMD) between two groups. RESULTS There were 23 articles that met the inclusion criteria (k=8, k=8, k=11, for SZ, BD, and MDD, respectively). In SZ, KA levels were increased [SMD=2.64, confidence interval (CI) =1.16 to 4.13, p=0.0005, I2=96%, k=6, n=384 subjects]. TRP (k=5) and KYN (k=4) did not differ significantly. In BD, TRP levels (k=7) did not differ significantly. The level of KA was increased in MDD (k=2), but the small number of studies made not possible for statistical significance evaluation. Finally, in MDD, although some studies tended to have an increased level of KYN in those with remission versus decreased levels in those with current depression, no significant difference was found in any of the kynurenine metabolite levels. Similarly, there was an increased level of QA (k=2) but the number of studies (k= 2) was small. CONCLUSION KA, which has possibly neuroprotective effects, is increased in SZ. QA, which has neurotoxic effects, may be increased in MDD. There were no alterations in BD. There may be alterations in this pathway based on population characteristics and mood states. Future studies should explore the utility of these metabolites as biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Enes Inam
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Brisa S. Fernandes
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Estela Salagre
- Department of Affective Disorders, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Iria Grande
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Eduard Vieta
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - João Quevedo
- Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhongming Zhao
- Center for Precision Health, School of Biomedical Informatics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
- Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
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Ziuzia P, Janiec Z, Wróbel-Kwiatkowska M, Lazar Z, Rakicka-Pustułka M. Honey's Yeast-New Source of Valuable Species for Industrial Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097889. [PMID: 37175595 PMCID: PMC10178026 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097889] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey is a rich source of compounds with biological activity; moreover, it is a valuable source of various microorganisms. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify yeast from a sample of lime honey from Poland as well as to assess its ability to biosynthesize value-added chemicals such as kynurenic acid, erythritol, mannitol, and citric acid on common carbon sources. Fifteen yeast strains belonging to the species Yarrowia lipolytica, Candida magnolia, and Starmerella magnoliae were isolated. In shake-flask screening, the best value-added compound producers were chosen. In the last step, scaling up of the culture in the bioreactor was performed. A newly isolated strain of Y. lipolytica No. 12 produced 3.9 mg/L of kynurenic acid growing on fructose. Strain Y. lipolytica No. 9 synthesized 32.6 g/L of erythritol on technical glycerol with a low concentration of byproducts. Strain Y. lipolytica No. 5 produced 15.1 g/L of mannitol on technical glycerol, and strain No. 3 produced a very high amount of citric acid (76.6 g/L) on technical glycerol. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge this is the first study to report the use of yeast isolates from honey to produce valuable chemicals. This study proves that natural products such as lime honey can be an excellent source of wild-type yeasts with valuable production properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Ziuzia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 31 Norwida St., 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Janiec
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 37 Chełmońskiego St., 51-630 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Wróbel-Kwiatkowska
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 37 Chełmońskiego St., 51-630 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Lazar
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 37 Chełmońskiego St., 51-630 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Rakicka-Pustułka
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 37 Chełmońskiego St., 51-630 Wroclaw, Poland
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Heylen A, Vermeiren Y, Kema IP, van Faassen M, van der Ley C, Van Dam D, De Deyn PP. Brain Kynurenine Pathway Metabolite Levels May Reflect Extent of Neuroinflammation in ALS, FTD and Early Onset AD. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040615. [PMID: 37111372 PMCID: PMC10143579 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040615] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite distinct clinical profiles, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) patients share a remarkable portion of pathological features, with a substantial percentage of patients displaying a mixed disease phenotype. Kynurenine metabolism seems to play a role in dementia-associated neuroinflammation and has been linked to both diseases. We aimed to explore dissimilarities in kynurenine pathway metabolites in these early onset neurodegenerative disorders in a brain-region-specific manner. METHODS Using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), kynurenine metabolite levels were determined in the brain samples of 98 healthy control subjects (n = 20) and patients with early onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD) (n = 23), ALS (n = 20), FTD (n = 24) or a mixed FTD-ALS (n = 11) disease profile. RESULTS Overall, the kynurenine pathway metabolite levels were significantly lower in patients with ALS compared to FTD, EOAD and control subjects in the frontal cortex, substantia nigra, hippocampus and neostriatum. Anthranilic acid levels and kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratios were consistently lower in all investigated brain regions in ALS compared to the other diagnostic groups. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the contribution of kynurenine metabolism in neuroinflammation is lower in ALS than in FTD or EOAD and may also be traced back to differences in the age of onset between these disorders. Further research is necessary to confirm the potential of the kynurenine system as a therapeutic target in these early onset neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Heylen
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Experimental Neurobiology Unit, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Yannick Vermeiren
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Chair Group of Nutritional Biology, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ido P Kema
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn van Faassen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Claude van der Ley
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Debby Van Dam
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Experimental Neurobiology Unit, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter P De Deyn
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behavior, Experimental Neurobiology Unit, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Center Groningen, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 Groningen, The Netherlands
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Liu R, Hao J, Zhao X, Lai Y. Characterization of Elimination Pathways and the Feasibility of Endogenous Metabolites as Biomarkers of Organic Anion Transporter 1/3 (Oat1/3) Inhibition in Cynomolgus Monkeys. Drug Metab Dispos 2023:dmd.123.001277. [PMID: 37059471 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.123.001277] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Organic anion transporters 1 and 3 (OAT1/3) occupy a key role in mediating renal elimination. Kynurenic acid (KYNA) was previously discovered as an effective endogenous biomarker to assess drug-drug interaction (DDI) for OAT inhibitors. Here, further in vitro and in vivo investigation was performed to characterize the elimination routes and feasibility of KYNA, along with other reported endogenous metabolites, as biomarkers of Oat1/3 inhibition in bile duct-cannulated (BDC) cynomolgus monkeys. Our results suggested KYNA is a substrate of OAT1/3 and OAT2, but not OCT2, MATE1/2K, or NTCP, and it shares comparable affinities between OAT1 and OAT3. Renal and biliary excretions, and plasma concentration-time profiles of KYNA, pyridoxic acid (PDA), homovanillic acid (HVA), and coproporphyrin I (CP-I), were assessed in BDC monkeys dosed with either probenecid (PROB) at 100 mg/kg or the control vehicle. Renal excretion of KYNA, PDA, and HVA was determined to be the major elimination route. The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and AUC0-24h of KYNA were about 11.6 and 3.7-fold higher in the PROB group than in the vehicle group. Renal clearance (CLr) of KYNA decreased by 3.2-fold, but biliary clearance (CLbile) was not altered after PROB administration. A similar trend was observed for PDA and HVA. Interestingly, an elevation of plasma concentration and reduction of CP-I CLbile were observed after PROB treatment, which suggested inhibition of the CP-I Oatp-Mrp2 transport axis by PROB. Overall, our results indicated that KYNA could potentially facilitate early and reliable assessment of DDI liabilities of Oat inhibition in monkeys. Significance Statement This work reported renal excretion as the major elimination pathway for kynurenic acid, pyridoxic acid, and homovanillic acid. Administration of probenecid reduced renal clearance and increased plasma exposure of these biomarkers in monkeys, consistent with the observation in humans. These endogenous biomarkers discovered in monkeys could be potentially used to evaluate the clinical drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in the early phase of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renmeng Liu
- Drug Metabolism, Gilead Sciences Inc., United States
| | - Jia Hao
- Gilead Sciences Inc, United States
| | | | - Yurong Lai
- Drug Metabolism, Gilead Sciences Inc., United States
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Chojnacki C, Poplawski T, Blonska A, Konrad P, Chojnacki J, Blasiak J. The Usefulness of the Low-FODMAP Diet with Limited Tryptophan Intake in the Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15081837. [PMID: 37111056 PMCID: PMC10145220 DOI: 10.3390/nu15081837] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: A low-FODMAP diet is often recommended in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, but it does not improve abdominal symptoms in all patients, and an alternative diet is desirable. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a low-FODMAP diet with a concomitant reduction in tryptophan (TRP) intake in irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea predominance (IBS-D) in relation to its metabolism via the serotonin and kynurenine pathways. (2) Methods: 40 healthy people (Group I, Controls) and 80 patients with IBS-D were included in the study. IBS-D patients were randomly divided into two groups of 40 each (Groups IIA and IIB). In Group IIA, the low-FODMAP diet was recommended, while in Group IIB, the same diet was recommended but with limited TRP intake for 8 weeks. The TRP intake was analyzed with the use of the nutritional calculator. Abdominal complaints were assessed using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS-IBS), and psychological status was simultaneously determined using two scales: the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) and the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D). TRP and its metabolites: 5-hydoxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA), and quinolinic acid (QA) were measured in urine using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). (3) Results: The consumption of TRP per mg/kg/b.w./24 h has decreased in Group IIA from 20.9 ± 2.39 to 17.45 ± 2.41 (16.5%) and in Group IIB from 21.3 ± 2.33 to 14.32 (34.4%). Significantly greater improvement was found after nutritional treatment in patients in Group IIB as compared to Group IIA (GSRS score: 38.1% vs. 49.8%; HAM-A: 38.7% vs. 49.9%; HAM-D: 13.8% vs. 35.0%; p < 0.01). Reducing TRP intake showed a negative correlation with the degree of improvement in the GSRS score. (4) Conclusions: Lowering the TRP content in a low-FODMAP diet may be useful in treating IBS-D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cezary Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | - Tomasz Poplawski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Blonska
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | - Paulina Konrad
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | - Jan Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | - Janusz Blasiak
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
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Chojnacki C, Błońska A, Konrad P, Chojnacki M, Podogrocki M, Poplawski T. Changes in Tryptophan Metabolism on Serotonin and Kynurenine Pathways in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15051262. [PMID: 36904262 PMCID: PMC10005076 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051262] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: L-tryptophan is a substrate for the synthesis of many biological compounds through the serotonin and kynurenine pathways. These compounds have a significant influence on gastrointestinal functions and mental processes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the urinary excretion of selected tryptophan metabolites in patients with constipation-predominant and diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C and IBS-D, respectively), related to somatic and mental symptoms. (2) Methods: 120 people were included in the study and three groups were distinguished, with 40 individuals each, including healthy subjects (controls), patients with IBS-C and patients with IBS-D. The Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rating Scale (GSRS-IBS) was used to assess the severity of abdominal symptoms. The Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) were used to evaluate the mental state of patients. Using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), L-tryptophan and the following metabolites in urine, related to the creatinine level, were measured: 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and quinolinic acid (QA). (3) Results: In both groups of patients with IBS, changes in tryptophan metabolism were found as compared to the control group. We observed an increase in the activity of the serotonin pathway and a positive correlation between the 5-HIAA level and the GSRS score (p < 0.01) and HAM-A score (p < 0.001) in IBS-D patients. The IBS-C group was characterized by a higher concentration of kynurenines (KYN, QA) in urine. Moreover, the QA (p < 0.001) and KYNA (p < 0.05) levels were correlated with the HAM-D score among IBS-C patients. (4) Conclusions: Various changes in the tryptophan metabolism pathway can determine the differences in the clinical picture of irritable bowel syndrome. These results should be included in the nutritional and pharmacological treatment of this syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cezary Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (T.P.)
| | - Aleksandra Błońska
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | - Paulina Konrad
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | - Marcin Chojnacki
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, 90-647 Lodz, Poland
| | - Marcin Podogrocki
- Biohazard Prevention Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Tomasz Poplawski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-216 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (T.P.)
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Hinkley JM, Yu GX, Standley RA, Distefano G, Tolstikov V, Narain NR, Greenwood BP, Karmacharya S, Kiebish MA, Carnero EA, Yi F, Vega RB, Goodpaster BH, Gardell SJ, Coen PM. Exercise and ageing impact the kynurenine/tryptophan pathway and acylcarnitine metabolite pools in skeletal muscle of older adults. J Physiol 2023. [PMID: 36814134 DOI: 10.1113/jp284142] [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: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Exercise-induced perturbation of skeletal muscle metabolites is a probable mediator of long-term health benefits in older adults. Although specific metabolites have been identified to be impacted by age, physical activity and exercise, the depth of coverage of the muscle metabolome is still limited. Here, we investigated resting and exercise-induced metabolite distribution in muscle from well-phenotyped older adults who were active or sedentary, and a group of active young adults. Percutaneous biopsies of the vastus lateralis were obtained before, immediately after and 3 h following a bout of endurance cycling. Metabolite profile in muscle biopsies was determined by tandem mass spectrometry. Mitochondrial energetics in permeabilized fibre bundles was assessed by high resolution respirometry and fibre type proportion was assessed by immunohistology. We found that metabolites of the kynurenine/tryptophan pathway were impacted by age and activity. Specifically, kynurenine was elevated in muscle from older adults, whereas downstream metabolites of kynurenine (kynurenic acid and NAD+ ) were elevated in muscle from active adults and associated with cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle oxidative capacity. Acylcarnitines, a potential marker of impaired metabolic health, were elevated in muscle from physically active participants. Surprisingly, despite baseline group difference, acute exercise-induced alterations in whole-body substrate utilization, as well as muscle acylcarnitines and ketone bodies, were remarkably similar between groups. Our data identified novel muscle metabolite signatures that associate with the healthy ageing phenotype provoked by physical activity and reveal that the metabolic responsiveness of muscle to acute endurance exercise is retained [NB]:AUTHOR: Please ensure that the appropriate material has been provide for Table S2, as well as for Figures S1 to S7, as also cited in the text with age regardless of activity levels. KEY POINTS: Kynurenine/tryptophan pathway metabolites were impacted by age and physical activity in human muscle, with kynurenine elevated in older muscle, whereas downstream products kynurenic acid and NAD+ were elevated in exercise-trained muscle regardless of age. Acylcarnitines, a marker of impaired metabolic health when heightened in circulation, were elevated in exercise-trained muscle of young and older adults, suggesting that muscle act as a metabolic sink to reduce the circulating acylcarnitines observed with unhealthy ageing. Despite the phenotypic differences, the exercise-induced response of various muscle metabolite pools, including acylcarnitine and ketone bodies, was similar amongst the groups, suggesting that older adults can achieve the metabolic benefits of exercise seen in young counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Matthew Hinkley
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Gong Xin Yu
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Robert A Standley
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Giovanna Distefano
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Elvis Alvarez Carnero
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Fanchao Yi
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Rick B Vega
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Bret H Goodpaster
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Stephen J Gardell
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Paul M Coen
- AdventHealth Translational Research Institute, AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando, FL, USA
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Alberts C, Owe-Larsson M, Urbanska EM. New Perspective on Anorexia Nervosa: Tryptophan-Kynurenine Pathway Hypothesis. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15041030. [PMID: 36839388 PMCID: PMC9967350 DOI: 10.3390/nu15041030] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN), affecting up to 4% of all females and 0.3% of all males globally, remains the neuropsychiatric disorder with the highest mortality rate. However, the response to the current therapeutic options is rarely satisfactory. Considering the devastating prognosis of survival among patients with AN, further research aimed at developing novel, more effective therapies for AN is essential. Brain and serum tryptophan is mostly converted along the kynurenine pathway into multiple neuroactive derivatives, whereas only 1-2% is used for the synthesis of serotonin. This narrative review provides an update on the experimental and clinical research data concerning the metabolism of tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway in anorexia nervosa based on the available literature. We propose that in AN, lower levels of L-kynurenine and kynurenic acid result in diminished stimulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which could contribute to abnormally low body weight. The impact of L-kynurenine supplementation on anorexia in animal models and the effects of changes in tryptophan and downstream kynurenines on the clinical progression of AN require further investigation. Moreover, prospective clinical studies on larger cohorts of restrictive and binge-eating/purging AN patients and assessing the potential benefit of L-kynurenine as an add-on therapeutic agent, should follow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charl Alberts
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Maja Owe-Larsson
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Center of Biostructure Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Chałubińskiego 5, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa M. Urbanska
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
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Walczak K, Gerkowicz A, Krasowska D. PPARs and the Kynurenine Pathway in Melanoma-Potential Biological Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24. [PMID: 36834531 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated transcription factors involved in various physiological and pathological processes within the skin. PPARs regulate several processes in one of the most aggressive skin cancers, melanoma, including proliferation, cell cycle, metabolic homeostasis, cell death, and metastasis. In this review, we focused not only on the biological activity of PPAR isoforms in melanoma initiation, progression, and metastasis but also on potential biological interactions between the PPAR signaling and the kynurenine pathways. The kynurenine pathway is a major pathway of tryptophan metabolism leading to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) production. Importantly, various tryptophan metabolites exert biological activity toward cancer cells, including melanoma. Previous studies confirmed the functional relationship between PPAR and the kynurenine pathway in skeletal muscles. Despite the fact this interaction has not been reported in melanoma to date, some bioinformatics data and biological activity of PPAR ligands and tryptophan metabolites may suggest a potential involvement of these metabolic and signaling pathways in melanoma initiation, progression, and metastasis. Importantly, the possible relationship between the PPAR signaling pathway and the kynurenine pathway may relate not only to the direct biological effect on melanoma cells but also to the tumor microenvironment and the immune system.
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Kozieł K, Urbanska EM. Kynurenine Pathway in Diabetes Mellitus-Novel Pharmacological Target? Cells 2023; 12. [PMID: 36766803 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The tryptophan-kynurenine pathway (Trp-KYN) is the major route for tryptophan conversion in the brain and in the periphery. Kynurenines display a wide range of biological actions (which are often contrasting) such as cytotoxic/cytoprotective, oxidant/antioxidant or pro-/anti-inflammatory. The net effect depends on their local concentration, cellular environment, as well as a complex positive and negative feedback loops. The imbalance between beneficial and harmful kynurenines was implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric illnesses and metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus (DM). Despite available therapies, DM may lead to serious macro- and microvascular complications including cardio- and cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, chronic renal disease, diabetic retinopathy, autonomic neuropathy or cognitive impairment. It is well established that low-grade inflammation, which often coincides with DM, can affect the function of KP and, conversely, that kynurenines may modulate the immune response. This review provides a detailed summary of findings concerning the status of the Trp-KYN pathway in DM based on available animal, human and microbiome studies. We highlight the importance of the molecular interplay between the deranged (functionally and qualitatively) conversion of Trp to kynurenines in the development of DM and insulin resistance. The Trp-KYN pathway emerges as a novel target in the search for preventive and therapeutic interventions in DM.
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Theiler-Schwetz V, Trummer C, Grübler MR, Keppel MH, Zittermann A, Tomaschitz A, März W, Meinitzer A, Pilz S. Associations of Parameters of the Tryptophan-Kynurenine Pathway with Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Hypertensive Patients. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15020256. [PMID: 36678127 PMCID: PMC9862689 DOI: 10.3390/nu15020256] [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: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests an association of the tryptophan−kynurenine (TRP-KYN) pathway with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk factors. In this cross-sectional analysis we investigated whether TRP-KYN pathway parameters are associated with 24 h blood pressure (BP) and other risk factors in patients with arterial hypertension from a tertiary care centre. In 490 participants, we found no significant and independent association of 24 h systolic and diastolic BP with parameters of the TRP-KYN pathway. However, linear regression analyses of HDL as dependent and TRP, KYN and quinolinic acid (QUIN) as explanatory variables adjusted for BMI and sex showed significant associations. These were found for KYN, BMI and sex (unstandardised beta coefficient −0.182, standard error 0.052, p < 0.001; −0.313 (0.078), p < 0.001; −0.180 (0.024), p < 0.001, respectively) as well as for QUIN, BMI and sex (−0.157 (0.038), p < 0.001; −0.321 (0.079), p < 0.001; −0.193 (0.024), p < 0.001, respectively). Smokers had significantly lower levels of KYN (2.36 µmol/L, IQR 2.01−2.98, versus 2.71 µmol/L, IQR 2.31−3.27, p < 0.001), QUIN (384 nmol/L, IQR 303−448, versus 451 nmol/L, IQR 369−575, p < 0.001) and KYN/TRP ratio (38.2, IQR 33.7−43.2, versus 43.1, IQR 37.5−50.9, p < 0.001) compared to non-smokers. We demonstrated that TRP/KYN pathway metabolites are associated with some cardiovascular risk factors, warranting further studies to elucidate the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of the TRP-KYN pathway for cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Theiler-Schwetz
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
- Correspondence:
| | - Christian Trummer
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Martin R. Grübler
- Regional Hospital Wiener Neustadt, 2700 Wiener Neustadt, Austria
- Department of Aging Medicine and Aging Research, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin H. Keppel
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Armin Zittermann
- Clinic for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Herz-und Diabeteszentrum Nordrhein-Westfalen (NRW), Ruhr University Bochum, 32545 Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | | | - Winfried März
- SYNLAB Academy, Synlab Holding Deutschland GmbH, 68159 Mannheim, Germany
- Vth Department of Medicine (Nephrology, Hypertensiology, Rheumatology, Endocrinology, Diabetology, Lipidology), Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Meinitzer
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Stefan Pilz
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
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Roszkowicz-Ostrowska K, Młotkowska P, Kowalczyk P, Marciniak E, Barszcz M, Misztal T. Central Stimulatory Effect of Kynurenic Acid on BDNF-TrkB Signaling and BER Enzymatic Activity in the Hippocampal CA1 Field in Sheep. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24. [PMID: 36613581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Deficiency of neurotrophic factors and oxidative DNA damage are common causes of many neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, the importance of kynurenic acid (KYNA), an active metabolite of tryptophan, has increased as a neuroprotective molecule in the brain. Therefore, the present study tested the hypothesis that centrally acting KYNA would positively affect: (1) brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling and (2) selected base excision repair (BER) pathway enzymes activities in the hippocampal CA1 field in sheep. Both lower (20 μg in total) and higher (100 μg in total) doses of KYNA infused into the third brain ventricle differentially increased the abundance of BDNF and TrkB mRNA in the CA1 field; additionally, the higher dose increased BDNF tissue concentration. The lower dose of KYNA increased mRNA expression for 8-oxoguanine glycosylase (OGG1), N-methylpurine DNA glycosylase (MPG), and thymine DNA glycosylase and stimulated the repair of 1,N6-ethenodeoxyadenosine and 3,N4-ethenodeoxy-cytosine as determined by the excision efficiency of lesioned nucleobases. The higher dose increased the abundance of OGG1 and MPG transcripts, however, its stimulatory effect on repair activity was less pronounced in all cases compared to the lower dose. The increased level of AP-endonuclease mRNA expression was dose-dependent. In conclusion, the potential neurotrophic and neuroprotective effects of KYNA in brain cells may involve stimulation of the BDNF-TrkB and BER pathways.
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Si Y, Wei W, Chen X, Xie X, Guo T, Sasaki Y, Zhang Y, Wang L, Zhang F, Feng S. A comprehensive study on the relieving effect of Lilium brownii on the intestinal flora and metabolic disorder in p-chlorphenylalanine induced insomnia rats. Pharm Biol 2022; 60:131-143. [PMID: 34978949 PMCID: PMC8725957 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2021.2019283] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The bulb of Lilium brownii F. E. Brown (Liliaceae) (LB) is a common Chinese medicine to relieve insomnia. OBJECTIVE To investigate the molecular mechanism of LB relieving insomnia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Insomnia model was induced by intraperitoneally injection p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) in Wistar rats. Rats were divided into three groups: Control, PCPA (400 mg/kg, i.p. 2 days), LB (598.64 mg/kg, oral 7 days). The levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), melatonin (MT), and the expression of GABAA, 5-HT1A and MT receptors, as well as pathological changes in hypothalamus, were evaluated. 16S rDNA sequencing and UPLC-MS/MS were used to reveal the change of the intestinal flora and metabolic profile. RESULTS The adverse changes in the abundance and diversity of intestinal flora and faecal metabolic phenotype altered by PCPA in rats were reversed after LB treatment, accompanied by the up-regulated levels of 5-HT as 8.14 ng/mL, MT as 16.16 pg/mL, 5-HT1A R and GABAA R, down-regulated level of NE as 0.47 ng/mL, and the improvement of pathological phenomena of cells in the hypothalamus. And the arachidonic acid metabolism and tryptophan metabolism pathway most significantly altered by PCPA were markedly regulated by LB. Besides, it was also found that LB reduced the levels of kynurenic acid related to psychiatric disorders and trimethylamine-N-oxide associated with cardiovascular disease. CONCLUSION The mechanism of LB relieving insomnia involves regulating flora and metabolites to resemble the control group. As a medicinal and edible herb, LB could be considered for development as a health-care food to relieve increasing insomniacs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanpo Si
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaohui Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaolong Xie
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yohei Sasaki
- Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa City, Japan
| | - Youbo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs and Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuying Feng
- Medical College, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
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Badawy AB. Tryptophan metabolism and disposition in cancer biology and immunotherapy. Biosci Rep 2022; 42:BSR20221682. [PMID: 36286592 PMCID: PMC9653095 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20221682] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumours utilise tryptophan (Trp) and its metabolites to promote their growth and evade host defences. They recruit Trp through up-regulation of Trp transporters, and up-regulate key enzymes of Trp degradation and down-regulate others. Thus, Trp 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), IDO2, N'-formylkynurenine formamidase (FAMID) and Kyn aminotransferase 1 (KAT1) are all up-regulated in many cancer types, whereas Kyn monooxygenase (KMO), kynureninase (KYNU), 2-amino-3-carboxymuconic acid-6-semialdehyde decarboxylase (ACMSD) and quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase (QPRT) are up-regulated in a few, but down-regulated in many, cancers. This results in accumulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand kynurenic acid and in depriving the host of NAD+ by blocking its synthesis from quinolinic acid. The host loses more NAD+ by up-regulation of the NAD+-consuming poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) and the protein acetylaters SIRTs. The nicotinamide arising from PARP and SIRT activation can be recycled in tumours to NAD+ by the up-regulated key enzymes of the salvage pathway. Up-regulation of the Trp transporters SLC1A5 and SLC7A5 is associated mostly with that of TDO2 = FAMID > KAT1 > IDO2 > IDO1. Tumours down-regulate enzymes of serotonin synthesis, thereby removing competition for Trp from the serotonin pathway. Strategies for combating tumoral immune escape could involve inhibition of Trp transport into tumours, inhibition of TDO and IDOs, inhibition of FAMID, inhibition of KAT and KYNU, inhibition of NMPRT and NMNAT, inhibition of the AhR, IL-4I1, PARPs and SIRTs, and by decreasing plasma free Trp availability to tumours by albumin infusion or antilipolytic agents and inhibition of glucocorticoid induction of TDO by glucocorticoid antagonism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla A.-B. Badawy
- Formerly School of Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, U.K
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Yu X, Ge P, Zhai Y, Liu W, Zhang Q, Ye X, Liu X, Wang R, Zhang Y, Zhao J, Zhang D. Serum Kynurenic Acid and Kynurenine Are Negatively Associated with the Risk of Adult Moyamoya Disease. J Clin Med 2022; 11. [PMID: 36498644 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11237069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim. Kynurenine (KYN) and kynurenic acid (KYNA) are key intermediate metabolites associated with inflammation and immune responses in the kynurenine pathway. It remains unknown whether KYN or KYNA is associated with the risk of adult moyamoya disease (MMD). The aim of this study was to prospectively investigate the association between serum KYN or KYNA and the risk of adult MMD. Methods. The study was conducted from July 2020 to December 2021. We measured serum KYN and KYNA levels for 360 adult MMD patients (259 cases of ischemic MMD, 101 cases of hemorrhagic MMD) and 89 age-sex-matched healthy controls. Clinical and laboratory characteristics were collected from the medical record. Results. After multivariate adjustment, decreased serum KYNA (OR, 0.085; 95% CI, 0.035−0.206; p = 0.000) or KYN (OR, 0.430; 95% CI, 0.225−0.820; p = 0.010) levels were associated with increased risk of MMD when upper and lower tertiles were compared. In addition, a higher trend of hemorrhagic MMD was found in MMD patients in KYNA tertile 1 compared with those in tertile 2 to 3 (OR, 0.584; 95% CI, 0.345−0.987; p = 0.044). Addition of serum KYNA (net reclassification improvement: 73.24%, p = 0.000; integrated discrimination improvement: 9.60%, p = 0.000) or KYN (integrated discrimination improvement: 1.70%, p = 0.037) to conventional risk factors significantly improved the risk prediction of MMD. In the exploratory analysis, we observed an interaction between KYN and age (≥40 versus <40 years) or homocysteine levels (≥13.0 versus <13.0 μmol/L) on the risk of MMD. Conclusions. Decreased serum KYNA or KYN levels were associated with an increased risk of adult MMD, suggesting that serum KYNA or KYN may be a valuable predictive biomarker for adult MMD.
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Körtési T, Spekker E, Vécsei L. Exploring the Tryptophan Metabolic Pathways in Migraine-Related Mechanisms. Cells 2022; 11. [PMID: 36497053 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a complex neurovascular disorder, which causes intense socioeconomic problems worldwide. The pathophysiology of disease is enigmatic; accordingly, therapy is not sufficient. In recent years, migraine research focused on tryptophan, which is metabolized via two main pathways, the serotonin and kynurenine pathways, both of which produce neuroactive molecules that influence pain processing and stress response by disturbing neural and brain hypersensitivity and by interacting with molecules that control vascular and inflammatory actions. Serotonin has a role in trigeminal pain processing, and melatonin, which is another product of this pathway, also has a role in these processes. One of the end products of the kynurenine pathway is kynurenic acid (KYNA), which can decrease the overexpression of migraine-related neuropeptides in experimental conditions. However, the ability of KYNA to cross the blood-brain barrier is minimal, necessitating the development of synthetic analogs with potentially better pharmacokinetic properties to exploit its therapeutic potential. This review summarizes the main translational and clinical findings on tryptophan metabolism and certain neuropeptides, as well as therapeutic options that may be useful in the prevention and treatment of migraine.
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Stone TW, Clanchy FIL, Huang YS, Chiang NY, Darlington LG, Williams RO. An integrated cytokine and kynurenine network as the basis of neuroimmune communication. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1002004. [PMID: 36507331 PMCID: PMC9729788 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1002004] [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: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Two of the molecular families closely associated with mediating communication between the brain and immune system are cytokines and the kynurenine metabolites of tryptophan. Both groups regulate neuron and glial activity in the central nervous system (CNS) and leukocyte function in the immune system, although neither group alone completely explains neuroimmune function, disease occurrence or severity. This essay suggests that the two families perform complementary functions generating an integrated network. The kynurenine pathway determines overall neuronal excitability and plasticity by modulating glutamate receptors and GPR35 activity across the CNS, and regulates general features of immune cell status, surveillance and tolerance which often involves the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR). Equally, cytokines and chemokines define and regulate specific populations of neurons, glia or immune system leukocytes, generating more specific responses within restricted CNS regions or leukocyte populations. In addition, as there is a much larger variety of these compounds, their homing properties enable the superimposition of dynamic variations of cell activity upon local, spatially limited, cell populations. This would in principle allow the targeting of potential treatments to restricted regions of the CNS. The proposed synergistic interface of 'tonic' kynurenine pathway affecting baseline activity and the superimposed 'phasic' cytokine system would constitute an integrated network explaining some features of neuroimmune communication. The concept would broaden the scope for the development of new treatments for disorders involving both the CNS and immune systems, with safer and more effective agents targeted to specific CNS regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W. Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Trevor W. Stone,
| | - Felix I. L. Clanchy
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yi-Shu Huang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nien-Yi Chiang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - L. Gail Darlington
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ashtead Hospital, Ashtead, United Kingdom
| | - Richard O. Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Pisanu C, Squassina A, Paribello P, Dall’Acqua S, Sut S, Nasini S, Bertazzo A, Congiu D, Meloni A, Garzilli M, Guiso B, Suprani F, Pulcinelli V, Iaselli MN, Pinna I, Somaini G, Arru L, Corrias C, Pinna F, Carpiniello B, Comai S, Manchia M. Investigation of Genetic Variants Associated with Tryptophan Metabolite Levels via Serotonin and Kynurenine Pathways in Patients with Bipolar Disorder. Metabolites 2022; 12:1127. [PMID: 36422266 PMCID: PMC9694761 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12111127] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) may play a role in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD). We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify genetic variants associated with the plasma levels of the metabolites of tryptophan (TRP) via the serotonin (5-HT) and kynurenine (KYN) pathways in 44 patients with BD and 45 healthy controls. We assessed whether variants that were differentially associated with metabolite levels based on the diagnostic status improved the prediction accuracy of BD using penalized regression approaches. We identified several genetic variants that were significantly associated with metabolites (5-HT, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), TRP, and quinolinic acid (QA) or metabolite ratios (5-HTP/TRP and KYN/TRP) and for which the diagnostic status exerted a significant effect. The inclusion of genetic variants led to increased accuracy in the prediction of the BD diagnostic status. Specifically, we obtained an accuracy of 0.77 using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression. The predictors retained as informative in this model included body mass index (BMI), the levels of TRP, QA, and 5-HT, the 5-HTP/TRP ratio, and genetic variants associated with the levels of QA (rs6827515, rs715692, rs425094, rs4645874, and rs77048355) and TRP (rs292212) or the 5-HTP/TRP ratio (rs7902231). In conclusion, our study identified statistically significant associations between metabolites of TRP via the 5-HT and KYN pathways and genetic variants at the genome-wide level. The discriminative performance of penalized regression models incorporating clinical, genetic, and metabolic predictors warrants a follow-up analysis of this panel of determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Pisanu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessio Squassina
- Department of Biomedical Science, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Paribello
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall’Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Stefania Sut
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Sofia Nasini
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Antonella Bertazzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Donatella Congiu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Anna Meloni
- Department of Biomedical Science, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Garzilli
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Beatrice Guiso
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federico Suprani
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Vittoria Pulcinelli
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Novella Iaselli
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pinna
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Somaini
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Arru
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carolina Corrias
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Pinna
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Bernardo Carpiniello
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Comai
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Mirko Manchia
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, University Hospital Agency of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 0A2, Canada
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Dey S, Dubey V, Dixit AB, Tripathi M, Chandra PS, Banerjee J. Differential Levels of Tryptophan-Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites in the Hippocampus, Anterior Temporal Lobe, and Neocortex in an Animal Model of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy. Cells 2022; 11. [PMID: 36428989 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate-receptor-mediated hyperexcitability contributes to seizure generation in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Tryptophan-kynurenine pathway (TKP) metabolites regulate glutamate receptor activity under physiological conditions. This study was designed to investigate alterations in the levels of TKP metabolites and the differential regulation of glutamatergic activity by TKP metabolites in the hippocampus, anterior temporal lobe (ATL), and neocortex samples of a lithium-pilocarpine rat model of TLE. We observed that levels of tryptophan were reduced in the hippocampus and ATL samples but unaltered in the neocortex samples. The levels of kynurenic acid were reduced in the hippocampus samples and unaltered in the ATL and neocortex samples of the TLE rats. The levels of kynurenine were unaltered in all three regions of the TLE rats. The magnitude of reduction in these metabolites in all regions was unaltered in the TLE rats. The frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents were enhanced in hippocampus ATL samples but not in the neocortex samples of the TLE rats. The exogenous application of kynurenic acid inhibited glutamatergic activity in the slice preparations of all these regions in both the control and the TLE rats. However, the magnitude of reduction in the frequency of kynurenic acid was higher in the hippocampus (18.44 ± 2.6% in control vs. 30.02 ± 1.5 in TLE rats) and ATL (16.31 ± 0.91% in control vs. 29.82 ± 3.08% in TLE rats) samples of the TLE rats. These findings suggest the differential regulation of glutamatergic activity by TKP metabolites in the hippocampus, ATL, and neocortex of TLE rats.
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Fathi M, Vakili K, Yaghoobpoor S, Tavasol A, Jazi K, Mohamadkhani A, Klegeris A, McElhinney A, Mafi Z, Hajiesmaeili M, Sayehmiri F. Dynamic changes in kynurenine pathway metabolites in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1013784. [PMID: 36426364 PMCID: PMC9680557 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1013784] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by axonal damage, demyelination, and perivascular inflammatory lesions in the white matter of the central nervous system (CNS). Kynurenine pathway (KP), which is the major route of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism, generates a variety of neurotoxic as well as neuroprotective compounds, affecting MS pathology and the severity of impairments. Alterations in KP have been described not only in MS, but also in various psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. The purpose of this systematic review is to investigate the previously reported dysregulation of KP and differences in its metabolites and enzymes in patients with MS compared to healthy control subjects. Method Electronic databases of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science were searched to identify studies measuring concentrations of KP metabolites and enzymes in MS patients and control subjects. The following metabolites and enzymes implicated in the KP were investigated: TRP, kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA), quinolinic acid (QUIN), picolinic acid (PIC), hydroxyindoleacetic acid (HIAA), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT), and their related ratios. Result Ten studies were included in our systematic review. Our review demonstrates that IDO expression is reduced in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of MS patients compared to healthy controls. Also, increased levels of QUIN and QUIN/KYNA in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of MS patients is observed. Differences in levels of other metabolites and enzymes of KP are also reported in some of the reviewed studies, however there are discrepancies among the included reports. Conclusion The results of this investigation suggest a possible connection between alterations in the levels of KP metabolite or enzymes and MS. QUIN levels in CSF were higher in MS patients than in healthy controls, suggesting that QUIN may be involved in the pathogenesis of MS. The data indicate that differences in the serum/blood or CSF levels of certain KP metabolites and enzymes could potentially be used to differentiate between MS patients and control subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mobina Fathi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Vakili
- 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
| | - Arian Tavasol
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kimia Jazi
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Qom, Qom, Iran
| | - Ashraf Mohamadkhani
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Andis Klegeris
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Alyssa McElhinney
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Zahedeh Mafi
- Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Hajiesmaeili
- Critical Care Quality Improvement Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sayehmiri
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Sun T, Xie R, He H, Xie Q, Zhao X, Kang G, Cheng C, Yin W, Cong J, Li J, Wang X. Kynurenic acid ameliorates NLRP3 inflammasome activation by blocking calcium mobilization via GPR35. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1019365. [PMID: 36311752 PMCID: PMC9606686 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1019365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The inflammasome has been linked to diverse inflammatory and metabolic diseases, and tight control of inflammasome activation is necessary to avoid excessive inflammation. Kynurenic acid (KA) is a tryptophan metabolite in the kynurenine pathway. However, the roles and mechanisms of the regulation of inflammasome activation by KA have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we found that KA suppressed caspase-1 activation and IL-1β production in macrophages by specifically inhibiting canonical and noncanonical activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Mechanistically, KA reduced calcium mobilization through G-protein receptor 35 (GPR35), resulting in reduced mitochondrial damage and decreased mtROS production, thus blocking NLRP3 inflammasome assembly and activation. Importantly, KA prevented lipopolysaccharide-induced systemic inflammation, monosodium urate-induced peritoneal inflammation, and high-fat diet-induced metabolic disorder. Thus, KA ameliorated inflammation and metabolic disorders by blocking calcium mobilization-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation via GPR35. Our data reveal a novel mechanism for KA in the modulation of inflammasome activation and suggest that GPR35 might be a promising target for improving NLRP3 inflammasome-associated diseases by regulating calcium mobilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyin Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ruiqian Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongbin He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qianqian Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xueqin Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Guijie Kang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chen Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenwei Yin
- Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingjing Cong
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xuefu Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Inflammation and Immune-Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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