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Abi Karam K, El Rachkidi R, Semaan K, Saad E, Fakhoury M, Saade M, Ayoub E, Rteil A, Jaber E, Mekhael E, Nassim N, Massaad A, Ghanem I, Assi A. Kinematic adaptations from self-selected to fast speed walking in patients with adult spinal deformity. Spine Deform 2024; 12:423-431. [PMID: 38200215 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-023-00799-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate kinematic adaptations from self-selected to fast speed walking in ASD patients. METHODS 115 primary ASD and 66 controls underwent biplanar radiographic X-rays and 3D gait analysis to calculate trunk, segmental spine and lower limb kinematics during self-selected and fast speed walking. Kinematic adaptation was calculated as the difference (Δ) between fast and self-selected speed walking. ASD with 7 or more limited kinematic adaptation parameters were classified as ASD-limited-KA, while those with less than 7 limited kinematic adaptation parameters were classified as ASD-mild-KA. RESULTS 25 patients were classified as ASD-limited-KA and 90 as ASD-mild-KA. ASD-limited-KA patients walked with a lesser increase of pelvic rotation (Δ = 1.7 vs 5.5°), sagittal hip movement (Δ = 3.1 vs 7.4°) and shoulder-pelvis axial rotation (Δ = 3.4 vs 6.4°) compared to controls (all p < 0.05). ASD-limited-KA had an increased SVA (60.6 vs - 5.7 mm), PT (23.7 vs 11.9°), PI-LL (9.7 vs - 11.7°), knee flexion (9.2 vs - 0.4°) and a decreased LL (44.0 vs 61.4°) compared to controls (all p < 0.05). Kinematic and radiographic alterations were less pronounced in ASD-mild-KA. The limited increase of walking speed was correlated to the deteriorated physical component summary score of SF-36 (r = 0.37). DISCUSSION Kinematic limitations during adaptation from self-selected to fast speed walking highlight an alteration of a daily life activity in ASD patients. ASD with limited kinematic adaptations showed more severe sagittal malalignment with an increased SVA, PT, PI-LL, and knee flexion, a decreased LL and the most deteriorated quality of life. This highlights the importance of 3D movement analysis in the evaluation of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystel Abi Karam
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rami El Rachkidi
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Karl Semaan
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Eddy Saad
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maria Saade
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Elma Ayoub
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Rteil
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Elena Jaber
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Elio Mekhael
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nabil Nassim
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abir Massaad
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ismat Ghanem
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ayman Assi
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
- Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts et Métiers, Paris, France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences,
School of Arts and Sciences,
Lebanese American University (LAU),
Beirut,
Lebanon
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Fakhoury M, Fritz M. Neurobiology of Behavior-Influences of Neuropsychiatric Disorders on Neurobiology and Behavior. Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:807. [PMID: 37372092 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The field of neuroscience continues to unravel the mysteries of the human brain and its association with neuropsychiatric disorders [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 13-5053, Lebanon
| | - Michael Fritz
- School of Health and Social Sciences, AKAD University of Applied Sciences, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
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Fritz M, Soravia SM, Dudeck M, Malli L, Fakhoury M. Neurobiology of Aggression-Review of Recent Findings and Relationship with Alcohol and Trauma. Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:biology12030469. [PMID: 36979161 PMCID: PMC10044835 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030469] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Aggression can be conceptualized as any behavior, physical or verbal, that involves attacking another person or animal with the intent of causing harm, pain or injury. Because of its high prevalence worldwide, aggression has remained a central clinical and public safety issue. Aggression can be caused by several risk factors, including biological and psychological, such as genetics and mental health disorders, and socioeconomic such as education, employment, financial status, and neighborhood. Research over the past few decades has also proposed a link between alcohol consumption and aggressive behaviors. Alcohol consumption can escalate aggressive behavior in humans, often leading to domestic violence or serious crimes. Converging lines of evidence have also shown that trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could have a tremendous impact on behavior associated with both alcohol use problems and violence. However, although the link between trauma, alcohol, and aggression is well documented, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms and their impact on behavior have not been properly discussed. This article provides an overview of recent advances in understanding the translational neurobiological basis of aggression and its intricate links to alcoholism and trauma, focusing on behavior. It does so by shedding light from several perspectives, including in vivo imaging, genes, receptors, and neurotransmitters and their influence on human and animal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Fritz
- School of Health and Social Sciences, AKAD University of Applied Sciences, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Sarah-Maria Soravia
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Manuela Dudeck
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, BKH Günzburg, Lindenallee 2, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
| | - Layal Malli
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 13-5053, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut P.O. Box 13-5053, Lebanon
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El Karkafi R, Gebara T, Salem M, Kamel J, El Khoury G, Zalal M, Fakhoury M. Ketogenic Diet and Inflammation: Implications for Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Adv Exp Med Biol 2023; 1411:537-554. [PMID: 36949325 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7376-5_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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
The ketogenic diet, known as a low-carbohydrate, high-protein, and high-fat diet, drastically restrains the major source of energy for the body, forcing it to burn all excess fat through a process called ketosis-the breaking down of fat into ketone bodies. First suggested as a medical treatment for children suffering from epilepsy, this diet has gained increased popularity as a rapid weight loss strategy. Over the past few years, there have been numerous studies suggesting that the ketogenic diet may provide therapeutic effects for several psychiatric conditions such as mood- and anxiety-related disorders. However, despite significant progress in research, the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects remain largely unexplored and are yet to be fully elucidated. This chapter provides an in-depth overview of preclinical and clinical evidence supporting the use of a ketogenic diet in the management of mood and anxiety disorders and discusses its relationship with inflammatory processes and potential mechanisms of actions for its therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy El Karkafi
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Tammy Gebara
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Michael Salem
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Jessica Kamel
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Ghinwa El Khoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Marilynn Zalal
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
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Semaan K, Rachkidi R, Saad E, Massaad A, Kawkabani G, Saliby RM, Mekhael M, Abi Karam K, Fakhoury M, Jaber E, Ghanem I, Skalli W, Lafage V, Assi A. Alterations of gait kinematics depend on the deformity type in the setting of adult spinal deformity. Eur Spine J 2022; 31:3069-3080. [PMID: 36028589 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-022-07348-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [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: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate 3D kinematic alterations during gait in Adult Spinal Deformity (ASD) subjects with different deformity presentations. METHODS One hundred nineteen primary ASD (51 ± 19y, 90F), age and sex-matched to 60 controls, underwent 3D gait analysis with subsequent calculation of 3D lower limb, trunk and segmental spine kinematics as well as the gait deviation index (GDI). ASD were classified into three groups: 51 with sagittal malalignment (ASD-Sag: SVA > 50 mm, PT > 25°, and/or PI-LL > 10°), 28 with only frontal deformity (ASD-Front: Cobb > 20°) and 40 with only hyperkyphosis (ASD-HyperTK: TK > 60°). Kinematics were compared between groups. RESULTS ASD-Sag had a decreased pelvic mobility compared to controls with a decreased ROM of hips (38 vs. 45°) and knees (51 vs. 61°). Furthermore, ASD-Sag exhibited a decreased walking speed (0.8 vs. 1.2 m/s) and GDI (80 vs. 95, all p < 0.05) making them more prone to falls. ASD-HyperTK showed similar patterns but in a less pronounced way. ASD-Front had normal walking patterns. GDI, knee flex/extension and walking speed were significantly associated with SVA and PT (r = 0.30-0.65). CONCLUSION Sagittal spinal malalignment seems to be the driver of gait alterations in ASD. Patients with higher GT, SVA, PT or PI-LL tended to walk slower, with shorter steps in order to maintain stability with a limited flexibility in the pelvis, hips and knees. These changes were found to a lesser extent in ASD with only hyperkyphosis but not in those with only frontal deformity. 3D gait analysis is an objective tool to evaluate functionality in ASD patients depending on their type of spinal deformity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I Diagnostic: individual cross-sectional studies with consistently applied reference standard and blinding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Semaan
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rami Rachkidi
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Eddy Saad
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Abir Massaad
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Georges Kawkabani
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Renée Maria Saliby
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mario Mekhael
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Krystel Abi Karam
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Elena Jaber
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ismat Ghanem
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Wafa Skalli
- Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts Et Métiers, Paris, France
| | | | - Ayman Assi
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon.
- Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts Et Métiers, Paris, France.
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Fakhoury M, Eid F, El Ahmad P, Khoury R, Mezher A, El Masri D, Haddad Z, Zoghbi Y, Ghayad LM, Sleiman SF, Stephan JS. Exercise and Dietary Factors Mediate Neural Plasticity Through Modulation of BDNF Signaling. Brain Plast 2022; 8:121-128. [DOI: 10.3233/bpl-220140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The term “neural plasticity” was first used to describe non-pathological changes in neuronal structure. Today, it is generally accepted that the brain is a dynamic system whose morphology and function is influenced by a variety of factors including stress, diet, and exercise. Neural plasticity involves learning and memory, the synthesis of new neurons, the repair of damaged connections, and several other compensatory mechanisms. It is altered in neurodegenerative disorders and following damage to the central or peripheral nervous system. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate neural plasticity in both healthy and diseased states is of significant importance to promote cognition and develop rehabilitation techniques for functional recovery after injury. In this minireview, we will discuss the mechanisms by which environmental factors promote neural plasticity with a focus on exercise- and diet-induced factors. We will highlight the known circulatory factors that are released in response to exercise and discuss how all factors activate pathways that converge in part on the activation of BDNF signaling. We propose to harness the therapeutic potential of exercise by using BDNF as a biomarker to identify novel endogenous factors that promote neural plasticity. We also discuss the importance of combining exercise factors with dietary factors to develop a lifestyle pill for patients afflicted by CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Fady Eid
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Perla El Ahmad
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Reine Khoury
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Amar Mezher
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Diala El Masri
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Zena Haddad
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Yara Zoghbi
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Litsa Maria Ghayad
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Sama F. Sleiman
- Biological Sciences Program, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
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Suarez-Sarmiento A, Perito P, Suarez-Sarmiento A, Fakhoury M. Proper Circumferential Sizing of Penile Implants. J Sex Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.01.401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Suarez-Sarmiento A, Perito P, Fakhoury M, Levitt B. Expedited algorithm for IPP following Radical Prostatectomy. J Sex Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.01.377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Suarez-Sarmiento A, Perito P, Suarez-Sarmiento A, Fakhoury M, Levitt B. Ethnic Disparities in Penile Prosthesis Surgery: An Analysis of Hispanic Patients. J Sex Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Saad E, Semaan K, Kawkabani G, Massaad A, Salibv RM, Mekhael M, Fakhoury M, Karam KA, Jaber E, Ghanem I, Lafage V, Skalli W, Rachkidi R, Assi A. Alteration of the Sitting and Standing Movement in Adult Spinal Deformity. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 9:751193. [PMID: 35096787 PMCID: PMC8792509 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.751193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Adults with spinal deformity (ASD) are known to have spinal malalignment affecting their quality of life and daily life activities. While walking kinematics were shown to be altered in ASD, other functional activities are yet to be evaluated such as sitting and standing, which are essential for patients’ autonomy and quality of life perception. In this cross-sectional study, 93 ASD subjects (50 ± 20 years; 71 F) age and sex matched to 31 controls (45 ± 15 years; 18 F) underwent biplanar radiographic imaging with subsequent calculation of standing radiographic spinopelvic parameters. All subjects filled HRQOL questionnaires such as SF36 and ODI. ASD were further divided into 34 ASD-sag (with PT > 25° and/or SVA >5 cm and/or PI-LL >10°), 32 ASD-hyperTK (with only TK >60°), and 27 ASD-front (with only frontal malalignment: Cobb >20°). All subjects underwent 3D motion analysis during the sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit movements. The range of motion (ROM) and mean values of pelvis, lower limbs, thorax, head, and spinal segments were calculated on the kinematic waveforms. Kinematics were compared between groups and correlations to radiographic and HRQOL scores were computed. During sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit movements, ASD-sag had decreased pelvic anteversion (12.2 vs 15.2°), hip flexion (53.0 vs 62.2°), sagittal mobility in knees (87.1 vs 93.9°), and lumbar mobility (L1L3-L3L5: −9.1 vs −6.8°, all p < 0.05) compared with controls. ASD-hyperTK showed increased dynamic lordosis (L1L3–L3L5: −9.1 vs −6.8°), segmental thoracic kyphosis (T2T10–T10L1: 32.0 vs 17.2°, C7T2–T2T10: 30.4 vs 17.7°), and thoracolumbar extension (T10L1–L1L3: −12.4 vs −5.5°, all p < 0.05) compared with controls. They also had increased mobility at the thoracolumbar and upper-thoracic spine. Both ASD-sag and ASD-hyperTK maintained a flexed trunk, an extended head along with an increased trunk and head sagittal ROM. Kinematic alterations were correlated to radiographic parameters and HRQOL scores. Even after controlling for demographic factors, dynamic trunk flexion was determined by TK and PI-LL mismatch (adj. R2 = 0.44). Lumbar sagittal ROM was determined by PI-LL mismatch (adj. R2 = 0.13). In conclusion, the type of spinal deformity in ASD seems to determine the strategy used for sitting and standing. Future studies should evaluate whether surgical correction of the deformity could restore sitting and standing kinematics and ultimately improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eddy Saad
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Karl Semaan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Abir Massaad
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Mario Mekhael
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Elena Jaber
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ismat Ghanem
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Virginie Lafage
- Orthopaedics Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY, United States
| | - Wafa Skalli
- Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
| | - Rami Rachkidi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ayman Assi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saint-Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
- Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Ayman Assi,
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Fakhoury M. Optogenetics: A revolutionary approach for the study of depression. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 106:110094. [PMID: 32890694 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Depression is a severe and chronic mental disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Symptoms include depressed mood, loss of interest, reduced motivation and suicidal thoughts. Even though findings from genetic, molecular and imaging studies have helped provide some clues regarding the mechanisms underlying depression-like behaviors, there are still many unanswered questions that need to be addressed. Optogenetics, a technique developed in the early 2000s, has proved effective in the study and treatment of depression and depression-like behaviors and has revolutionized already known experimental techniques. This technique employs light and genetic tools to either inhibit or excite specific neurons or pathways within the brain. In this review paper, an up-to-date understanding of the use of optogenetics in the study of depression-like behaviors is provided, along with suggestions for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut Campus, Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Fakhoury M, Piras F, Banaj N. Editorial: Alzheimer's Disease From a Psychiatric Perspective: Towards New Therapeutic Guidelines? Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:782423. [PMID: 34803783 PMCID: PMC8601228 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.782423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fabrizio Piras
- Laboratory of Neuropsychiatry, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Nerisa Banaj
- Laboratory of Neuropsychiatry, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Fakhoury M, Shakkour Z, Kobeissy F, Lawand N. Depression following traumatic brain injury: a comprehensive overview. Rev Neurosci 2020; 32:289-303. [PMID: 33661587 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2020-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a major health concern affecting the neuropsychological health; TBI is accompanied by drastic long-term adverse complications that can influence many aspects of the life of affected individuals. A substantial number of studies have shown that mood disorders, particularly depression, are the most frequent complications encountered in individuals with TBI. Post-traumatic depression (P-TD) is present in approximately 30% of individuals with TBI, with the majority of individuals experiencing symptoms of depression during the first year following head injury. To date, the mechanisms of P-TD are far from being fully understood, and effective treatments that completely halt this condition are still lacking. The aim of this review is to outline the current state of knowledge on the prevalence and risk factors of P-TD, to discuss the accompanying brain changes at the anatomical, molecular and functional levels, and to discuss current approaches used for the treatment of P-TD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Zaynab Shakkour
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nada Lawand
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Ahmad RHMA, Fakhoury M, Lawand N. Electromagnetic Field in Alzheimer's Disease: A Literature Review of Recent Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Curr Alzheimer Res 2020; 17:1001-1012. [PMID: 33256578 DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666201130085853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of neurons leading to cognitive and memory decay. The main signs of AD include the irregular extracellular accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) protein in the brain and the hyper-phosphorylation of tau protein inside neurons. Changes in Aβ expression or aggregation are considered key factors in the pathophysiology of sporadic and early-onset AD and correlate with the cognitive decline seen in patients with AD. Despite decades of research, current approaches in the treatment of AD are only symptomatic in nature and are not effective in slowing or reversing the course of the disease. Encouragingly, recent evidence revealed that exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) can delay the development of AD and improve memory. This review paper discusses findings from in vitro and in vivo studies that investigate the link between EMF and AD at the cellular and behavioural level, and highlights the potential benefits of EMF as an innovative approach for the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Habib Mohamad Ali Ahmad
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon,Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Lebanon
| | - Nada Lawand
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon,Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Salman I, Fakhoury M, Fouani M, Lawand N. Peripheral Anti-nociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Effect of Oleanolic Acid in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis. Antiinflamm Antiallergy Agents Med Chem 2020; 20:239-249. [PMID: 33183210 DOI: 10.2174/1871523019999201111191754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oleanolic acid (OA) is a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid with multifarious actions. Chief among them is the anti-inflammatory effect it exerts when taken orally; however, the underpinning mechanisms of such effects have not yet been fully explored. METHODS In the present study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effect of OA by injecting it directly into the knee joint using an animal model of osteoarthritis. Behavioral and electrophysiological studies were conducted to determine whether OA exerts a direct modulatory effect on primary sensory afferents that could lead to a decrease in pain-related behaviors and inflammatory responses. Rats were divided into two main groups: a pre- and a post-treatment group. Knee joint inflammation was induced by injecting a mixture of 3% kaolin and carrageenan (K/C). In the pre-treatment groups, two different doses of OA [5 mg/ml (n=5) and 30 mg/ml (n=4); 0.1 ml per injection] were administered into the synovial cavity of the knee joint before induction of inflammation. In the post-treatment group, rats received only one dose [5 mg/ml (n=5)] of OA after induction of inflammation. RESULTS Results indicate that intra-articular injection of OA improves motor coordination and attenuates nociceptive behav-ior and inflammatory reactions. More importantly, we observed a direct depolarizing action of OA on articular sensory fi-bers, a crucial mechanism that activates descending inhibitory pathways and controls incoming nociceptive signals to the spinal cord. CONCLUSION Overall, our findings suggest that OA can be used as preventive and therapeutic approach for the management of osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israa Salman
- Department of anatomy, Cell biology & Physiological Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; American University of Beirut, Beirut,. Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Department of anatomy, Cell biology & Physiological Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; American University of Beirut, Beirut,. Lebanon.,Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Lebanon
| | - Malak Fouani
- Department of anatomy, Cell biology & Physiological Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; American University of Beirut, Beirut,. Lebanon
| | - Nada Lawand
- Department of anatomy, Cell biology & Physiological Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; American University of Beirut, Beirut,. Lebanon.,Department of Neurology; Faculty of Medicine; American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Alkhunizi SM, Fakhoury M, Abou-Kheir W, Lawand N. Gadolinium Retention in the Central and Peripheral Nervous System: Implications for Pain, Cognition, and Neurogenesis. Radiology 2020; 297:407-416. [DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2020192645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Safia M. Alkhunizi
- From the Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences (S.M.A., M.F., W.A., N.L.) and Department of Neurology (N.L.), Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Diana Tamari Sabbagh (DTS) Building, Bldg 130, John Kennedy St, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- From the Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences (S.M.A., M.F., W.A., N.L.) and Department of Neurology (N.L.), Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Diana Tamari Sabbagh (DTS) Building, Bldg 130, John Kennedy St, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Wassim Abou-Kheir
- From the Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences (S.M.A., M.F., W.A., N.L.) and Department of Neurology (N.L.), Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Diana Tamari Sabbagh (DTS) Building, Bldg 130, John Kennedy St, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Nada Lawand
- From the Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences (S.M.A., M.F., W.A., N.L.) and Department of Neurology (N.L.), Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, PO Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Diana Tamari Sabbagh (DTS) Building, Bldg 130, John Kennedy St, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
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Fakhoury M, Hernandez G, Lévesque D, Rompré PP. Modulation of brain stimulation reward and locomotor activity by ionotropic glutamate receptors of the tail of the ventral tegmental area. Behav Brain Res 2020; 393:112785. [PMID: 32593543 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112785] [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: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The rostromedial tegmental nucleus also referred to as the tail of the ventral tegmental area (tVTA) contains a cluster of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic neurons that receive dense glutamatergic afferents from the lateral habenula (LHb), and project to dopamine (DA) neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). In light of previous evidence implicating glutamate transmission in the regulation of midbrain DA neuronal activity, we first assessed the impact of intra-tVTA microinjection of NBQX (0.8 nmol/side) and PPPA (0.825 nmol/side), respectively AMPA and NMDA receptor antagonists, on reward induced by intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) and on locomotor activity. Since the tVTA contains a large concentration of mu opioid receptors, additional measures were obtained following microinjection of endomorphin-1 (EM-1, 1 nmol/side) to confirm tVTA placements. Then, using small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), we tested the effect of tVTA downregulation of the GluN1 subunit of the NMDA receptor on reward and locomotor activity. Results show that NBQX, PPPA and EM-1 all enhance reward and locomotor activity, effects that were of different magnitude in rostral and intermediate parts of the tVTA. On the other hand, a reduction in GluN1 subunits used a marked decrease in operant responding for ICSS, but failed to alter ICSS reward and the reward-enhancing effect of PPPA. Our results support a role for the tVTA as a main inhibitory component of DA-dependent behavioral measures, and suggest that tVTA NMDA receptors that modulate reward are most likely expressed on tVTA afferent terminals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Giovanni Hernandez
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Daniel Lévesque
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre-Paul Rompré
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Ahmad RHMA, Fakhoury M, Lawand N. Electromagnetic Field: A Potential Innovative Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease. CPRR 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/2666082216666200408103701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Reem Habib Mohamed Ali Ahmad
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nada Lawand
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut, Lebanon
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Fakhoury M, Salman I, Najjar W, Merhej G, Lawand N. The Lateral Hypothalamus: An Uncharted Territory for Processing Peripheral Neurogenic Inflammation. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:101. [PMID: 32116534 PMCID: PMC7029733 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [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: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The roles of the hypothalamus and particularly the lateral hypothalamus (LH) in the regulation of inflammation and pain have been widely studied. The LH consists of a parasympathetic area that has connections with all the major parts of the brain. It controls the autonomic nervous system (ANS), regulates feeding behavior and wakeful cycles, and is a part of the reward system. In addition, it contains different types of neurons, most importantly the orexin neurons. These neurons, though few in number, perform critical functions such as inhibiting pain transmission and interfering with the reward system, feeding behavior and the hypothalamic pituitary axis (HPA). Recent evidence has identified a new role for orexin neurons in the modulation of pain transmission associated with several inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Here, we review recent findings on the various physiological functions of the LH with special emphasis on the orexin/receptor system and its role in mediating inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Israa Salman
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Wassim Najjar
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - George Merhej
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nada Lawand
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Suarez-Sarmiento A, Houlihan M, Brennan M, Perito P, Kohler T, Suarez-Sarmiento A, Alom M, Ziegelmann M, Trost L, Fakhoury M. 389 Penile Prosthesis Glans Hypermobility Scale (GHS): Incidence, Severity, and Predictors in a Multi-Institutional Series. J Sex Med 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.11.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Abstract
Scientific findings over the past few decades have shaped our understanding of the underlying neurobiology associated with psychiatric illnesses. However, despite significant advances in research, there is widespread disappointment with the overall pace of progress in detecting and treating psychiatric disorders. Current approaches for the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders largely rely on physician-patient questionnaires that are most of the time inaccurate and ineffective in providing a reliable assessment of symptoms. These limitations can, however, be overcome by applying artificial intelligence (AI) to electronic medical database and health records. AI in psychiatry is a general term that implies the use of computerized techniques and algorithms for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental illnesses. Although the past few years have witnessed an increase in the use of AI in the medical practice, its role in psychiatry remains a complex and unanswered question. This chapter provides the current state of knowledge of AI's use in the diagnosis, prediction, and treatment of psychiatric disorders, and examines the challenges and limitations of this approach in the medical practise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada.
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24
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Fakhoury M. The tail of the ventral tegmental area in behavioral processes and in the effect of psychostimulants and drugs of abuse. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:30-38. [PMID: 29421265 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The tail of the ventral tegmental area (tVTA) is a recently identified structure that exerts a major inhibitory drive onto midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons. Also referred to as the rostromedial tegmental nucleus (RMTg), the tVTA is a cluster of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic neurons that starts within the posterior end of the VTA, where it is restricted dorsolateral to the caudal part of the interpeduncular nucleus, and extends into the pons. First identified in the rat, the tVTA has been described in many species, including mice and monkeys, as a region exhibiting similar anatomical and behavioral properties; it receives strong excitatory inputs from the lateral habenula (LHb), conveys negative reward-related information, and inhibits midbrain DA neuron activity. As an important inhibitory afferent to midbrain DA neurons, the tVTA is also implicated in drug abuse and in the complex interplay between reward and aversion processes. The overarching goal of this review is to provide the current state of knowledge on the anatomy and connectivity of the tVTA and to discuss recent evidence implicating this structure in reward-related processes and in the effect of psychostimulants and drugs of abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Fakhoury M. The dorsal diencephalic conduction system in reward processing: Spotlight on the anatomy and functions of the habenular complex. Behav Brain Res 2018; 348:115-126. [PMID: 29684476 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 01/20/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The dorsal diencephalic conduction system (DDC) is a highly conserved pathway in vertebrates that provides a route for the neural information to flow from forebrain to midbrain structures. It contains the bilaterally paired habenular nuclei along with two fiber tracts, the stria medullaris and the fasciculus retroflexus. The habenula is the principal player in mediating the dialogue between forebrain and midbrain regions, and functional abnormalities in this structure have often been attributed to pathologies like mood disorders and substance use disorder. Following Matsumoto and Hikosaka seminal work on the lateral habenula as a source of negative reward signals, the last decade has witnessed a great surge of interest in the role of the DDC in reward-related processes. However, despite significant progress in research, much work remains to unfold the behavioral functions of this intriguing, yet complex, pathway. This review describes the current state of knowledge on the DDC with respect to its anatomy, connectivity, and functions in reward and aversion processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, H3C3J7, Canada.
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Fakhoury M. Imaging genetics in autism spectrum disorders: Linking genetics and brain imaging in the pursuit of the underlying neurobiological mechanisms. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 80:101-114. [PMID: 28322981 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) include a wide range of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions that affect an individual in several aspects of social communication and behavior. Recent advances in molecular genetic technologies have dramatically increased our understanding of ASD etiology through the identification of several autism risk genes, most of which serve important functions in synaptic plasticity and protein synthesis. However, despite significant progress in this field of research, the characterization of the neurobiological mechanisms by which common genetic risk variants might operate to give rise to ASD symptomatology has proven to be far more difficult than expected. The imaging genetics approach holds great promise for advancing our understanding of ASD etiology by bridging the gap between genetic variations and their resultant biological effects on the brain. This paper provides a conceptual overview of the contribution of genetics in ASD and discusses key findings from the emerging field of imaging genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3J7, Canada.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of neurons, which typically leads to severe impairments in cognitive functions including memory and learning. Key pathological features of this disease include the deposition of highly insoluble amyloid β peptides and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the brain. Mounting evidence also implicates sustained glial-mediated inflammation as a major contributor of the neurodegenerative processes and cognitive deficits observed in AD. METHODS This paper provides an overview of findings from both human and animal studies investigating the role of microglia and astrocytes in AD, and discusses potential avenues for therapeutic intervention. RESULTS Glial-mediated inflammation is a 'double-edged sword', performing both detrimental and beneficial functions in AD. Despite tremendous effort in elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying AD pathology, to date, there is no treatment that could prevent or cure this disease. Current treatments are only useful in slowing down the progression of AD and helping patients manage some of their behavioral and cognitive symptoms. CONCLUSION A better understanding of the role of microglia and astrocytes in the regulation of AD pathology is needed as this could pave the way for new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Fakhoury M, Voyer D, Lévesque D, Rompré PP. Effect of electrolytic lesions of the dorsal diencephalic conduction system on the distribution of Fos-like immunoreactivity induced by rewarding electrical stimulation. Neuroscience 2016; 334:214-225. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects close to 1% of the population. Individuals with this disorder often present signs such as hallucination, anxiety, reduced attention, and social withdrawal. Although antipsychotic drugs remain the cornerstone of schizophrenia treatment, they are associated with severe side effects. Recently, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged as a potential therapeutic target for pharmacotherapy that is involved in a wide range of disorders, including schizophrenia. Since its discovery, a lot of effort has been devoted to the study of compounds that can modulate its activity for therapeutic purposes. Among them, cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, shows great promise for the treatment of psychosis, and is associated with fewer extrapyramidal side effects than conventional antipsychotic drugs. The overarching goal of this review is to provide current available knowledge on the role of the dopamine system and the ECS in schizophrenia, and to discuss key findings from animal studies and clinical trials investigating the antipsychotic potential of CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3J7, Canada.
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Fakhoury M. Immune-mediated processes in neurodegeneration: where do we stand? J Neurol 2016; 263:1683-701. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-016-8052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Fakhoury M. Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:768-778. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-9697-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Abstract
CONTEXT Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is by far the most common and aggressive form of glial tumor. It is characterized by a highly proliferative population of cells that invade surrounding tissue and that frequently recur after surgical resection and chemotherapy. Over the last decades, a number of promising novel pharmacological approaches have been investigated, but most of them have failed clinical trials due to some side-effects such as toxicity and poor drug delivery to the brain. The major obstacle in the treatment of GBM is the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Due to their relatively high molecular weight, most therapeutic drugs fail to cross the BBB from the blood circulation. OBJECTIVE This paper sheds light on the characteristics of GBM and the challenges of current pharmacological treatments. A closer look is given to the role of nanotechnology in the field of drug delivery, and its application in the treatment of brain tumors such as GBM. METHOD For this purpose, effort was made to select the most recent studies using predefined search criteria that included at least one of the following keywords in the PubMed and Medline databases: glioblastoma, drug delivery, blood-brain barrier, nanotechnology, and nanoparticle. CONCLUSION Breakthrough in nanotechnology offers promising applications in cancer therapy and targeted drug delivery. However, more efforts need to be devoted to the development of novel therapeutic strategies that enable the delivery of drugs to desired areas of the brain with limited side-effects and higher therapeutic efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- a Department of Neurosciences , University of Montreal , Montreal , QC , Canada
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Negrulj R, Mooranian A, Chen-Tan N, Al-Sallami HS, Mikov M, Golocorbin-Kon S, Fakhoury M, Watts GF, Arfuso F, Al-Salami H. Swelling, mechanical strength, and release properties of probucol microcapsules with and without a bile acid, and their potential oral delivery in diabetes. Artif Cells Nanomed Biotechnol 2015; 44:1290-7. [PMID: 25811999 DOI: 10.3109/21691401.2015.1024845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
We have demonstrated a permeation-enhancing effect of deoxycholic acid (DCA), the bile acid, in diabetic rats. In this study, we designed DCA-based microcapsules for the oral delivery of the antilipidemic drug probucol (PB), which has potential antidiabetic effects. We aimed to further characterize these microcapsules and examine their pH-dependent release properties, as well as the effects of DCA on their stability and mechanical strength at various pH and temperature values. Using the polymer sodium alginate (SA), we prepared PB-SA (control) and PB-DCA-SA (test) microcapsules. The microcapsules were examined for drug content, size, surface composition, release, Micro-CT cross-sectional imaging, stability, Zeta potential, mechanical strength, and swelling characteristics at different pH and temperature values. The microencapsulation efficiency and production yield were also examined. The addition of DCA resulted in microcapsules with a greater density and with reduced swelling at a pH of 7.8 and at temperatures of 25°C and 37°C (p < 0.01). The size, surface composition, production yield, and microencapsulation efficiency of the microcapsules remained similar after DCA addition. PB-SA microcapsules produced multiphasic PB release, while PB-DCA-SA microcapsules produced monophasic PB release, suggesting more controlled PB release in the presence of DCA. The PB-DCA-SA microcapsules showed good stability and a pH-sensitive uniphasic release pattern, which may suggest potential applications in the oral delivery of PB in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Negrulj
- a Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Armin Mooranian
- a Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Nigel Chen-Tan
- b Faculty of Science & Engineering, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | | | - Momir Mikov
- d Department of Pharmacology , Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad , Novi Sad , Serbia.,e Department of Pharmacy , Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro , Podgorica , Montenegro
| | - Svetlana Golocorbin-Kon
- d Department of Pharmacology , Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad , Novi Sad , Serbia.,e Department of Pharmacy , Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro , Podgorica , Montenegro
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- f Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Gerald F Watts
- g School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Royal Perth Hospital, University of Western Australia , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Frank Arfuso
- h Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Hani Al-Salami
- a Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the current evidence about the neurobiological mechanisms in major depressive disorders (MDD) and the key findings from studies using neuroimaging tools and animal models. METHOD This paper gives an overview of the role of genetic and environmental factors in the pathophysiology of MDD and describes the structural changes in brain structures of depressed individuals. A closer look is given at the molecular processes and neurotransmitters implicated in this mental disorder. Moreover, this paper discusses key findings from recent research using animal models and their relevance for clinical applications. RESULTS Although the exact cause of MDD is not known, there is enough evidence showing that genetic, psychological and environmental factors significantly increase the risk of developing this disease. Individuals affected by MDD exhibit a reduced volume of structures such as the amygdala, hippocampus and basal ganglia, as well as altered level of neurotransmitters in the brain. CONCLUSION The studies presented in this review show promising results that could shed light on the molecular mechanisms of MDD. However, more work needs to be done to better understand this psychiatric disorder and promote the development of new treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7, Canada.
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Mooranian A, Negrulj R, Al-Sallami HS, Fang Z, Mikov M, Golocorbin-Kon S, Fakhoury M, Watts GF, Matthews V, Arfuso F, Lambros A, Al-Salami H. Probucol release from novel multicompartmental microcapsules for the oral targeted delivery in type 2 diabetes. AAPS PharmSciTech 2015; 16:45-52. [PMID: 25168450 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-014-0205-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In previous studies, we developed and characterised multicompartmental microcapsules as a platform for the targeted oral delivery of lipophilic drugs in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We also designed a new microencapsulated formulation of probucol-sodium alginate (PB-SA), with good structural properties and excipient compatibility. The aim of this study was to examine the stability and pH-dependent targeted release of the microcapsules at various pH values and different temperatures. Microencapsulation was carried out using a Büchi-based microencapsulating system developed in our laboratory. Using SA polymer, two formulations were prepared: empty SA microcapsules (SA, control) and loaded SA microcapsules (PB-SA, test), at a constant ratio (1:30), respectively. Microcapsules were examined for drug content, zeta potential, size, morphology and swelling characteristics and PB release characteristics at pH 1.5, 3, 6 and 7.8. The production yield and microencapsulation efficiency were also determined. PB-SA microcapsules had 2.6 ± 0.25% PB content, and zeta potential of -66 ± 1.6%, suggesting good stability. They showed spherical and uniform morphology and significantly higher swelling at pH 7.8 at both 25 and 37°C (p < 0.05). The microcapsules showed multiphasic release properties at pH 7.8. The production yield and microencapsulation efficiency were high (85 ± 5 and 92 ± 2%, respectively). The PB-SA microcapsules exhibited distal gastrointestinal tract targeted delivery with a multiphasic release pattern and with good stability and uniformity. However, the release of PB from the microcapsules was not controlled, suggesting uneven distribution of the drug within the microcapsules.
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Fakhoury M. Role of Immunity and Inflammation in the Pathophysiology of Neurodegenerative Diseases. NEURODEGENER DIS 2015; 15:63-9. [PMID: 25591815 DOI: 10.1159/000369933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are the result of progressive loss of neurons and axons in the central nervous system (CNS), which can lead to cognition and motor dysfunction. It is well known that CNS inflammation and immune activation play a major role in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases. Although the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is able to protect the CNS from immune activation, it becomes more permeable during inflammation, which renders the brain vulnerable to infections. A better understanding of the interaction between inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, and the activated immune response, including astrocytes and microglia, is critical for the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases. This review first describes the role of innate immune activation in neurodegenerative diseases and illustrates the factors that contribute to the communication between the CNS and the immune system. A closer look is given at the role of the BBB in inflammation and immunity, as well as at the animal models used to study inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, this review outlines the key pathways and biological mechanisms involved in CNS diseases, with a particular focus on multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Alzheimer's disease (AD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Que., Canada
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Fakhoury M. Spinal cord injury: overview of experimental approaches used to restore locomotor activity. Rev Neurosci 2015; 26:397-405. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2015-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
AbstractSpinal cord injury affects more than 2.5 million people worldwide and can lead to paraplegia and quadriplegia. Anatomical discontinuity in the spinal cord results in disruption of the impulse conduction that causes temporary or permanent changes in the cord’s normal functions. Although axonal regeneration is limited, damage to the spinal cord is often accompanied by spontaneous plasticity and axon regeneration that help improve sensory and motor skills. The recovery process depends mainly on synaptic plasticity in the preexisting circuits and on the formation of new pathways through collateral sprouting into neighboring denervated territories. However, spontaneous recovery after spinal cord injury can go on for several years, and the degree of recovery is very limited. Therefore, the development of new approaches that could accelerate the gain of motor function is of high priority to patients with damaged spinal cord. Although there are no fully restorative treatments for spinal injury, various rehabilitative approaches have been tested in animal models and have reached clinical trials. In this paper, a closer look will be given at the potential therapies that could facilitate axonal regeneration and improve locomotor recovery after injury to the spinal cord. This article highlights the application of several interventions including locomotor training, molecular and cellular treatments, and spinal cord stimulation in the field of rehabilitation research. Studies investigating therapeutic approaches in both animal models and individuals with injured spinal cords will be presented.
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Denoya PI, Fakhoury M, Chang K, Fakhoury J, Bergamaschi R. Dearterialization with mucopexy versus haemorrhoidectomy for grade III or IV haemorrhoids: short-term results of a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Colorectal Dis 2014; 15:1281-8. [PMID: 23711288 DOI: 10.1111/codi.12303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2012] [Accepted: 01/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM There is scepticism regarding anatomical rationale and Doppler guidance for ligation of haemorrhoidal arteries. The null hypothesis of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) was that there is no difference in pain following dearterialization or haemorrhoidectomy for grade III/IV internal haemorrhoids in a minimum of three quadrants. METHOD This was a single-centre, double-blind RCT. Patients were allocated to dearterialization or haemorrhoidectomy. Included haemorrhoids were grade III, prolapsing but reducible; and grade IV, chronic non-incarcerated. The primary end-point was pain. Patients with external component, acute incarcerated grade IV or recurrent haemorrhoids were not included. The interventions were dearterialization (with Doppler guidance and mucopexy) or haemorrhoidectomy. The main outcome measure was the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI). RESULTS Twenty dearterialization patients were comparable to 20 haemorrhoidectomy patients for age (P = 0.107), body mass index (P = 0.559), race (P = 0.437), American Society of Anesthesiology score (P = 0.569), comorbidities (P = 0.592), grade (P = 0.096), quadrants (P = 0.222), Fecal Incontinence Quality-of-Life Score (FIQOL; P = 0.388), coping (P = 0.532), depression (P = 0.505), embarrassment (P = 0.842), and Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) physical components (P = 0.337), SF-12 mental components (P = 0.396) and constipation (P = 0.628) scores. Dearterialization patients had shorter operative time (36 vs 54 min, P = 0.043) with less pain (P = 0.011) and urinary retention (P = 0.012). Dearterialization patients had first bowel movement earlier (1.3 vs 4.6 days, P = 0.001), less pain (P = 0.011) and lower pain intensity (P = 0.001). Narcotic requirements were reduced in dearterialization patients (25% vs 100%, P = 0.001), with less medication (4.9 vs 112 pills, P = 0.001) and shorter regimen (0 vs 7 days, P = 0.001). BPI did not differ on days 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 except for less pain in dearterialization patients. At 3 months, symptomatic relief was the same with no differences in BPI, FIQOL or SF-12. CONCLUSION Compared with haemorrhoidectomy, dearterialization led to less pain in grade III/IV haemorrhoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- P I Denoya
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, State University of New York, Stony Brook, New York, USA
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Mooranian A, Negrulj R, Chen-Tan N, Fakhoury M, Arfuso F, Jones F, Al-Salami H. Advanced bile acid-based multi-compartmental microencapsulated pancreatic β-cells integrating a polyelectrolyte-bile acid formulation, for diabetes treatment. Artif Cells Nanomed Biotechnol 2014; 44:588-95. [PMID: 25358121 DOI: 10.3109/21691401.2014.971806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
This study utilized the Seahorse Analyzer to examine the effect of the bile acid ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), on the morphology, swelling, stability, and size of novel microencapsulated β-cells, in real-time. UDCA was conjugated with fluorescent compounds, and its partitioning within the microcapsules was examined using confocal microscopy. UDCA produced microcapsules with good morphology, better mechanical strength (p < 0.01), and reduced swelling properties (p < 0.01), but lower cell viability (p < 0.05) and cell count per microcapsule (p < 0.01). UDCA reduced the cells' biochemical activities, mitochondrial respiration, and energy production, post-microencapsulation. This is the first time biological functions of microencapsulated β-cells have been analyzed in real-time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Mooranian
- a Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Rebecca Negrulj
- a Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Nigel Chen-Tan
- b Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Imaging and Applied Physics , Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- c Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience , University of Montreal , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Frank Arfuso
- d Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Biomedical Science, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Franca Jones
- e Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Chemistry , Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
| | - Hani Al-Salami
- a Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth , Western Australia , Australia
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Fakhoury M, Coussa-Charley M, Al-Salami H, Kahouli I, Prakash S. Use of artificial cell microcapsule containing thalidomide for treating TNBS-induced Crohn's disease in mice. Curr Drug Deliv 2014; 11:146-53. [PMID: 24533726 DOI: 10.2174/156720181101140212170025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2013] [Revised: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the in-vivo characteristics of a novel microencapsulated thalidomide formulation in a murine model of experimental Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease was induced with a single intra-colonic injection of 120 mg/kg of bodyweight of 2,5,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) dissolved in 30% ethanol in Balb/c mice. Level of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin one beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured in tissue homogenate. Moreover, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was determined to assess the extent of neutrophil infiltration. Dose response study showed that treating the mice with microencapsulated thalidomide (100 mg/kg of bodyweight) for two weeks significantly decreased the degree of intestinal inflammation related to Crohn's disease. Higher and lower doses (0, 25, 50 and 200 mg/kg of bodyweight) did not exhibit comparable effects. The present study validates the success of alginate-poly-L-lysine-alginate (APA) microcapsules containing thalidomide in reducing colonic inflammation, and proposes a potential remedy for Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Satya Prakash
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Artificial Cells and Organs Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Mooranian A, Negrulj R, Al-Sallami HS, Fang Z, Mikov M, Golocorbin-Kon S, Fakhoury M, Arfuso F, Aruso F, Al-Salami H. Release and swelling studies of an innovative antidiabetic-bile acid microencapsulated formulation, as a novel targeted therapy for diabetes treatment. J Microencapsul 2014; 32:151-6. [PMID: 25265061 DOI: 10.3109/02652048.2014.958204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
In previous studies carried out in our laboratory, a bile acid formulation exerted a hypoglycaemic effect in a rat model of type 1 diabetes (T1D). When the antidiabetic drug gliclazide was added to the bile acid, it augmented the hypoglycaemic effect. In a recent study, we designed a new formulation of gliclazide-deoxycholic acid (G-DCA), with good structural properties, excipient compatibility and which exhibited pseudoplastic-thixotropic characteristics. The aim of this study is to test the slow release and pH controlled properties of this new formulation. The aim is also to examine the effect of DCA on G release kinetics at various pH values and different temperatures. Microencapsulation was carried out using our Buchi-based microencapsulating system developed in our laboratory. Using sodium alginate (SA) polymer, both formulations were prepared including: G-SA (control) and G-DCA-SA (test) at a constant ratio (1:3:30), respectively. Microcapsules were examined for efficiency, size, release kinetics, stability and swelling studies at pH 1.5, 3, 7.4 and 7.8 and temperatures of 25 °C and 37 °C. The new formulation is further optimised by the addition of DCA. DCA reduced bead-swelling of the microcapsules at pH 7.8 and 3 at 25 °C and 37 °C, and even though bead size remains similar after DCA addition, the percentage of G release was enhanced at high pH values (pH 7.4 and 7.8, p < 0.01). The new formulation exhibits colon-targeted delivery and the addition of DCA prolonged G release suggesting its suitability for the sustained and targeted delivery of G and DCA to the lower intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Mooranian
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University , Perth, Western Australia , Australia
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Mooranian A, Negrulj R, Chen-Tan N, Al-Sallami HS, Fang Z, Mukkur TK, Mikov M, Golocorbin-Kon S, Fakhoury M, Watts GF, Matthews V, Arfuso F, Al-Salami H. Microencapsulation as a novel delivery method for the potential antidiabetic drug, Probucol. Drug Des Devel Ther 2014; 8:1221-30. [PMID: 25246766 PMCID: PMC4166910 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s67349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction In previous studies, we successfully designed complex multicompartmental microcapsules as a platform for the oral targeted delivery of lipophilic drugs in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Probucol (PB) is an antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant drug with the potential to show benefits in T2D. We aimed to create a novel microencapsulated formulation of PB and to examine the shape, size, and chemical, thermal, and rheological properties of these microcapsules in vitro. Method Microencapsulation was carried out using the Büchi-based microencapsulating system developed in our laboratory. Using the polymer, sodium alginate (SA), empty (control, SA) and loaded (test, PB-SA) microcapsules were prepared at a constant ratio (1:30). Complete characterizations of microcapsules, in terms of morphology, thermal profiles, dispersity, and spectral studies, were carried out in triplicate. Results PB-SA microcapsules displayed uniform and homogeneous characteristics with an average diameter of 1 mm. The microcapsules exhibited pseudoplastic-thixotropic characteristics and showed no chemical interactions between the ingredients. These data were further supported by differential scanning calorimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectral studies, suggesting microcapsule stability. Conclusion The new PB-SA microcapsules have good structural properties and may be suitable for the oral delivery of PB in T2D. Further studies are required to examine the clinical efficacy and safety of PB in T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Mooranian
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rebecca Negrulj
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nigel Chen-Tan
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Zhongxiang Fang
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - T K Mukkur
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Biomedical Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Momir Mikov
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Serbia ; Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Svetlana Golocorbin-Kon
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Serbia ; Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gerald F Watts
- School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Royal Perth Hospital, University of Western Australia
| | - Vance Matthews
- Laboratory for Metabolic Dysfunction, UWA Centre for Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Frank Arfuso
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Biomedical Science, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Hani Al-Salami
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Mooranian A, Negrulj R, Chen-Tan N, Al-Sallami HS, Fang Z, Mukkur T, Mikov M, Golocorbin-Kon S, Fakhoury M, Arfuso F, Al-Salami H. Novel artificial cell microencapsulation of a complex gliclazide-deoxycholic bile acid formulation: a characterization study. Drug Des Devel Ther 2014; 8:1003-12. [PMID: 25114507 PMCID: PMC4122185 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s65396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliclazide (G) is an antidiabetic drug commonly used in type 2 diabetes. It has extrapancreatic hypoglycemic effects, which makes it a good candidate in type 1 diabetes (T1D). In previous studies, we have shown that a gliclazide-bile acid mixture exerted a hypoglycemic effect in a rat model of T1D. We have also shown that a gliclazide-deoxycholic acid (G-DCA) mixture resulted in better G permeation in vivo, but did not produce a hypoglycemic effect. In this study, we aimed to develop a novel microencapsulated formulation of G-DCA with uniform structure, which has the potential to enhance G pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects in our rat model of T1D. We also aimed to examine the effect that DCA will have when formulated with our new G microcapsules, in terms of morphology, structure, and excipients' compatibility. Microencapsulation was carried out using the Büchi-based microencapsulating system developed in our laboratory. Using sodium alginate (SA) polymer, both formulations were prepared: G-SA (control) at a ratio of 1:30, and G-DCA-SA (test) at a ratio of 1:3:30. Complete characterization of microcapsules was carried out. The new G-DCA-SA formulation was further optimized by the addition of DCA, exhibiting pseudoplastic-thixotropic rheological characteristics. The size of microcapsules remained similar after DCA addition, and these microcapsules showed no chemical interactions between the excipients. This was supported further by the spectral and microscopy studies, suggesting microcapsule stability. The new microencapsulated formulation has good structural properties and may be useful for the oral delivery of G in T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Mooranian
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Rebecca Negrulj
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Nigel Chen-Tan
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Zhongxiang Fang
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Trilochan Mukkur
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Biomedical Science, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Momir Mikov
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Svetlana Golocorbin-Kon
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Marc Fakhoury
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Frank Arfuso
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Biomedical Science, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Hani Al-Salami
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is defined as a chronic intestinal inflammation that results from host-microbial interactions in a genetically susceptible individual. IBDs are a group of autoimmune diseases that are characterized by inflammation of both the small and large intestine, in which elements of the digestive system are attacked by the body’s own immune system. This inflammatory condition encompasses two major forms, known as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Patients affected by these diseases experience abdominal symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloody stools, and vomiting. Moreover, defects in intestinal epithelial barrier function have been observed in a number of patients affected by IBD. In this review, we first describe the types and symptoms of IBD and investigate the role that the epithelial barrier plays in the pathophysiology of IBD as well as the major cytokines involved. We then discuss steps used to diagnose this disease and the treatment options available, and finally provide an overview of the recent research that aims to develop new therapies for such chronic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Fakhoury
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical engineering and Artificial Cells and Organs Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rebecca Negrulj
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Pharmacy, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Armin Mooranian
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Pharmacy, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Hani Al-Salami
- Biotechnology and Drug Development Research Laboratory, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Biosciences Research Precinct, School of Pharmacy, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Rodes L, Coussa-Charley M, Marinescu D, Paul A, Fakhoury M, Abbasi S, Khan A, Tomaro-Duchesneau C, Prakash S. Design of a novel gut bacterial adhesion model for probiotic applications. Artif Cells Nanomed Biotechnol 2012; 41:116-24. [PMID: 22889228 DOI: 10.3109/10731199.2012.712047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A new gut bacterial adhesion model has been developed. For this, a continuous-flow bioreactor packed with bacteria-coated beads was designed to simulate the gut lining and other features. In vitro model efficacy shows successful bacterial cell gut adhesions: bacterial adhesion was higher with mucin-alginate compared to controls. In feasibility study, adhesion of Lactobacillus fermentum NCIMB 5221 and Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 701359 was investigated for their metabolic activities for bile salt. Bile salt hydrolase (BSH)-active Lactobacillus reuteri exerted higher activity than non-BSH-active L. fermentum. This model has potential use in gut health, probiotic, bacterial cell gut adhesion and other delivery applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Rodes
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Artificial Cells and Organs Research Centre, McGill University, Duff Medical Building, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Rodes L, Paul A, Coussa-Charley M, Al-Salami H, Tomaro-Duchesneau C, Fakhoury M, Prakash S. Transit time affects the community stability of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species in an in vitro model of human colonic microbiotia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 39:351-6. [PMID: 22066794 DOI: 10.3109/10731199.2011.622280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Retention time, which is analogous to transit time, is an index for bacterial stability in the intestine. Its consideration is of particular importance to optimize the delivery of probiotic bacteria in order to improve treatment efficacy. This study aims to investigate the effect of retention time on Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria stability using an established in vitro human colon model. Three retention times were used: 72, 96, and 144 h. The effect of retention time on cell viability of different bacterial populations was analyzed with bacterial plate counts and PCR. The proportions of intestinal Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli, Enterococci, Staphylococci and Clostridia populations, analyzed by plate counts, were found to be the same as that in human colonic microbiota. Retention time in the human colon affected the stability of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria communities, with maximum stability observed at 144 h. Therefore, retention time is an important parameter that influences bacterial stability in the colonic microbiota. Future clinical studies on probiotic bacteria formulations should take into consideration gastrointestinal transit parameters to improve treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Rodes
- Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Artificial Cells and Organs Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Fakhoury M, Denoya P. Rectal washout and local recurrence of cancer after anterior resection (Br J Surg 2010 97 1589-1597). Br J Surg 2011; 98:601-2; author reply 602. [PMID: 21656726 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.7471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Adam de Beaumais T, Dervieux T, Fakhoury M, Medard Y, Azougagh S, Zhang D, Yakouben K, Jacqz-Aigrain E. The impact of high-dose methotrexate on intracellular 6-mercaptopurine disposition during interval therapy of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2009; 66:653-8. [PMID: 20033410 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-009-1205-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2009] [Accepted: 11/27/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Low-dose methotrexate (MTX) therapy is the cornerstone treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and may enhance the activation of 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) to 6-thioguanine nucleotides (6-TGN). Yet, data have established that high-dose MTX (HDMTX) hampers the accumulation of 6-TGN in red blood cells (RBC) and lymphoblasts. METHODS To clarify the pharmacokinetic interactions between these two antimetabolites, we serially measured RBC 6-TGN and MTX polyglutamates (MTXPG) levels following repeated courses of HDMTX (5 g/m(2) over 24 h) with daily oral 6-MP (25 mg/m(2)) during interval therapy in 20 children with ALL. RESULTS HDMTX produced a rapid reduction in RBC 6-TGN 24 h after the start of MTX, and this effect was sustained at least by the third day (median decrease -21%; P < 0.001). However, a return to pre-infusion of 6-TGN levels was observed by the time of the following HDMTX course 14 days later (P < 0.001). RBC MTX polyglutamates accumulation followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics but was not associated with the change in pre-infusion 6-TGN levels which remained stable during the interval period. CONCLUSION HDMTX does not appear to enhance 6-MP activation to 6-TGN. Moreover, given that the deleterious effect of HDMTX on intracellular 6-MP disposition has been shown to be several folds greater in lymphoblasts than in RBC. Our data warrant additional studies elucidating the optimal MTX dose synergizing with 6-MP.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Adam de Beaumais
- Department of Pediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacogenetics, Robert Debre Hospital, 48 Boulevard Serurier, Paris, France
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