1
|
Howes OD, Dawkins E, Lobo MC, Kaar SJ, Beck K. New drug treatments for schizophrenia: a review of approaches to target circuit dysfunction. Biol Psychiatry 2024:S0006-3223(24)01349-0. [PMID: 38815885 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2024.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a leading cause of global disease burden. Current drug treatments are associated with significant side-effects and have limited efficacy for many patients; highlighting the need to develop new approaches that target other aspects of the neurobiology of schizophrenia. Preclinical, in vivo imaging, post-mortem, genetic and pharmacological studies have highlighted the key role of cortical GABA-glutamatergic microcircuits and their projections to subcortical dopaminergic circuits in the pathoetiology of negative, cognitive and psychotic symptoms. Antipsychotics primarily act downstream of the dopaminergic component of this circuit. However, multiple drugs are currently in development that could target other elements of this circuit to treat schizophrenia. These include drugs for GABA or glutamatergic targets, including glycine transporters, d-amino acid oxidase, sodium channels or potassium channels. Other drugs in development are likely to primarily act on pathways that regulate the dopaminergic system such as muscarinic or trace amine receptors or serotonin 2A receptors, whilst phosphodiesterase 10 A inhibitors are being developed to modulate the downstream consequences of dopaminergic dysfunction. Our review considers where new drugs may act on this circuit and their latest clinical trial evidence in terms of indication, efficacy and side-effects. Limitations of the circuit model, including whether there are neurobiologically distinct subgroups of patients, and future directions are also considered. Several drugs based on the mechanisms reviewed have promising clinical data, with the muscarinic agonist KarXT most advanced. If they are approved for clinical use, they have the potential to revolutionise understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment of schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver D Howes
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Eleanor Dawkins
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London, UK
| | - Maria C Lobo
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London, UK
| | - Stephen J Kaar
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Katherine Beck
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fradley R, Goetghebeur P, Miller D, Burley R, Almond S, Gruart I Massó A, Delgado García JM, Zhu B, Howley E, Neill JC, Grayson B, Gaskin P, Carlton M, Gray I, Serrats J, Davies CH. Luvadaxistat: A Novel Potent and Selective D-Amino Acid Oxidase Inhibitor Improves Cognitive and Social Deficits in Rodent Models for Schizophrenia. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:3027-3041. [PMID: 37289348 PMCID: PMC10471729 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-03956-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor hypofunctionality is a well-studied hypothesis for schizophrenia pathophysiology, and daily dosing of the NMDA receptor co-agonist, D-serine, in clinical trials has shown positive effects in patients. Therefore, inhibition of D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) has the potential to be a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of schizophrenia. TAK-831 (luvadaxistat), a novel, highly potent inhibitor of DAAO, significantly increases D-serine levels in the rodent brain, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid. This study shows luvadaxistat to be efficacious in animal tests of cognition and in a translational animal model for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. This is demonstrated when luvadaxistat is dosed alone and in conjunction with a typical antipsychotic. When dosed chronically, there is a suggestion of change in synaptic plasticity as seen by a leftward shift in the maximum efficacious dose in several studies. This is suggestive of enhanced activation of NMDA receptors in the brain and confirmed by modulation of long-term potentiation after chronic dosing. DAAO is highly expressed in the cerebellum, an area of increasing interest for schizophrenia, and luvadaxistat was shown to be efficacious in a cerebellar-dependent associative learning task. While luvadaxistat ameliorated the deficit seen in sociability in two different negative symptom tests of social interaction, it failed to show an effect in endpoints of negative symptoms in clinical trials. These results suggest that luvadaxistat potentially could be used to improve cognitive impairment in patients with schizophrenia, which is not well addressed with current antipsychotic medications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Fradley
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - David Miller
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Sarah Almond
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Bin Zhu
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | - Eimear Howley
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jo C Neill
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ben Grayson
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Philip Gaskin
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mark Carlton
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ian Gray
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jordi Serrats
- Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda California, 9625 Towne Centre Dr, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
| | - Ceri H Davies
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals Company Limited, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Billard JM, Freret T. Improved NMDA Receptor Activation by the Secreted Amyloid-Protein Precursor-α in Healthy Aging: A Role for D-Serine? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415542. [PMID: 36555191 PMCID: PMC9779005 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Impaired activation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate subtype of glutamate receptors (NMDAR) by D-serine is linked to cognitive aging. Whether this deregulation may be used to initiate pharmacological strategies has yet to be considered. To this end, we performed electrophysiological extracellular recordings at CA3/CA1 synapses in hippocampal slices from young and aged mice. We show that 0.1 nM of the soluble N-terminal recombinant fragment of the secreted amyloid-protein precursor-α (sAPPα) added in the bath significantly increased NMDAR activation in aged but not adult mice without impacting basal synaptic transmission. In addition, sAPPα rescued the age-related deficit of theta-burst-induced long-term potentiation. Significant NMDAR improvement occurred in adult mice when sAPPα was raised to 1 nM, and this effect was drastically reduced in transgenic mice deprived of D-serine through genetic deletion of the synthesizing enzyme serine racemase. Altogether, these results emphasize the interest to consider sAPPα treatment targeting D-serine-dependent NMDAR deregulation to alleviate cognitive aging.
Collapse
|
4
|
Involvement of DAAO Overexpression in Delayed Hippocampal Neuronal Death. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223689. [PMID: 36429117 PMCID: PMC9688509 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) is a flavoenzyme that specifically catalyzes the deamination of many neutral and basic D-amino acids. This study aims to explore the pathological increment of hippocampal DAAO and its potential relationship with delayed hippocampal neuronal death. METHODS Ischemia-reperfusion was induced in mice through middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Neurological deficit scores and hippocampal neuronal death were assessed in MCAO mice. Immunofluorescent staining was applied to identify activated astrocytes and evaluate DAAO expression. TUNEL and Nissl staining were utilized to identify cell apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. RESULTS Hippocampal astrocytic DAAO was strikingly increased following ischemic stroke, with the greatest increase on day 5 after surgery, followed by the manifestation of neurobehavioral deficits. Astrocytic DAAO was found to be mainly expressed in the hippocampal CA2 region and linked with subsequent specific neural apoptosis. Thus, it is supposed that the activation of astrocytic DAAO in ischemic stroke might contribute to neuronal death. An intravenous, twice-daily administration of 4H-furo[3,2-b]pyrrole-5-carboxylic acid (SUN, 10 mg/kg) markedly relieved behavioral status and delayed hippocampal neuronal death by 38.0% and 41.5%, respectively, compared to the model group treated with saline. In transfected primary astrocytes, DAAO overexpression inhibits cell activity, induces cytotoxicity, and promotes hippocampal neuronal death at least partly by enhancing H2O2 levels with subsequent activation of TRP calcium channels in neurons. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that increased hippocampal DAAO is causally associated with the development of delayed neuronal death after MCAO onset via astrocyte-neuron interactions. Hence, targeting DAAO is a promising therapeutic strategy for the management of neurological disorders.
Collapse
|
5
|
Tang H, Jensen K, Houang E, McRobb FM, Bhat S, Svensson M, Bochevarov A, Day T, Dahlgren MK, Bell JA, Frye L, Skene RJ, Lewis JH, Osborne JD, Tierney JP, Gordon JA, Palomero MA, Gallati C, Chapman RSL, Jones DR, Hirst KL, Sephton M, Chauhan A, Sharpe A, Tardia P, Dechaux EA, Taylor A, Waddell RD, Valentine A, Janssens HB, Aziz O, Bloomfield DE, Ladha S, Fraser IJ, Ellard JM. Discovery of a Novel Class of d-Amino Acid Oxidase Inhibitors Using the Schrödinger Computational Platform. J Med Chem 2022; 65:6775-6802. [PMID: 35482677 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c00118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
d-Serine is a coagonist of the N-methyl d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, a key excitatory neurotransmitter receptor. In the brain, d-serine is synthesized from its l-isomer by serine racemase and is metabolized by the D-amino acid oxidase (DAO, DAAO). Many studies have linked decreased d-serine concentration and/or increased DAO expression and enzyme activity to NMDA dysfunction and schizophrenia. Thus, it is feasible to employ DAO inhibitors for the treatment of schizophrenia and other indications. Powered by the Schrödinger computational modeling platform, we initiated a research program to identify novel DAO inhibitors with the best-in-class properties. The program execution leveraged an hDAO FEP+ model to prospectively predict compound potency. A new class of DAO inhibitors with desirable properties has been discovered from this endeavor. Our modeling technology on this program has not only enhanced the efficiency of structure-activity relationship development but also helped to identify a previously unexplored subpocket for further optimization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Tang
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | | | - Evelyne Houang
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | - Fiona M McRobb
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | - Sathesh Bhat
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | - Mats Svensson
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | - Art Bochevarov
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | - Tyler Day
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | | | - Jeffery A Bell
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | - Leah Frye
- Schrödinger Inc., New York, New York 10036, United States
| | - Robert J Skene
- Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - James H Lewis
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - James D Osborne
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - Jason P Tierney
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - James A Gordon
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | | | | | | | - Daniel R Jones
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - Kim L Hirst
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - Mark Sephton
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - Alka Chauhan
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - Andrew Sharpe
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - Piero Tardia
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | | | - Andrea Taylor
- Charles River Laboratories, Harlow, Essex CM19 5TR, U.K
| | | | | | - Holden B Janssens
- Charles River Laboratories, South San Francisco, California 94080, United States
| | - Omar Aziz
- Charles River Laboratories, Harlow, Essex CM19 5TR, U.K
| | | | - Sandeep Ladha
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - Ian J Fraser
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K
| | - John M Ellard
- Charles River Laboratories, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1XL, U.K.,Charles River Laboratories, Harlow, Essex CM19 5TR, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nagy LV, Bali ZK, Kapus G, Pelsőczi P, Farkas B, Lendvai B, Lévay G, Hernádi I. Converging Evidence on D-Amino Acid Oxidase-Dependent Enhancement of Hippocampal Firing Activity and Passive Avoidance Learning in Rats. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 24:434-445. [PMID: 33305805 PMCID: PMC8130201 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activation requires the binding of a co-agonist on the glycine-binding site. D-serine is the main endogenous co-agonist of NMDA receptors, and its availability significantly depends on the activity of the metabolic enzyme D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO). Inhibition of DAAO increases the brain levels of D-serine and modulates a variety of physiological functions, including cognitive behavior. METHODS Here, we examined the effects of a novel 4-hydroxypyridazin-3(2H)-one derivative DAAO inhibitor, Compound 30 (CPD30), on passive avoidance learning and on neuronal firing activity in rats. RESULTS D-serine administration was applied as reference, which increased cognitive performance and enhanced hippocampal firing activity and responsiveness to NMDA after both local and systemic application. Similarly to D-serine, CPD30 (0.1 mg/kg) effectively reversed MK-801-induced memory impairment in the passive avoidance test. Furthermore, local iontophoretic application of CPD30 in the vicinity of hippocampal pyramidal neurons significantly increased firing rate and enhanced their responses to locally applied NMDA. CPD30 also enhanced hippocampal firing activity after systemic administration. In 0.1- to 1.0-mg/kg doses, CPD30 increased spontaneous and NMDA-evoked firing activity of the neurons. Effects of CPD30 on NMDA responsiveness emerged faster (at 10 minutes post-injection) when a 1.0-mg/kg dose was applied compared with the onset of the effects of 0.1 mg/kg CPD30 (at 30 minutes post-injection). CONCLUSIONS The present results confirm that the inhibition of DAAO enzyme is an effective strategy for cognitive enhancement. Our findings further facilitate the understanding of the cellular mechanisms underlying the behavioral effects of DAAO inhibition in the mammalian brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Veronika Nagy
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary,Szentágothai Research Center, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Kristóf Bali
- Szentágothai Research Center, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary,Grastyán Translational Research Center, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary,Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary,Correspondence: Zsolt Kristóf Bali, PhD, Translational Neuroscience Research Group, Grastyán Translational Research Center, 6 Ifjúság út, H-7624, Pécs, Hungary ()
| | - Gábor Kapus
- Pharmacological and Drug Safety Research, Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Pelsőczi
- Pharmacological and Drug Safety Research, Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bence Farkas
- Pharmacological and Drug Safety Research, Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Lendvai
- Pharmacological and Drug Safety Research, Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary
| | - György Lévay
- Pharmacological and Drug Safety Research, Gedeon Richter Plc, Budapest, Hungary,Department of Morphology and Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Hernádi
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary,Szentágothai Research Center, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary,Grastyán Translational Research Center, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary,Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
In Vivo Plasticity at Hippocampal Schaffer Collateral-CA1 Synapses: Replicability of the LTP Response and Pharmacology in the Long-Evans Rat. Neural Plast 2020; 2020:6249375. [PMID: 33273904 PMCID: PMC7676971 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6249375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Broad issues associated with non-replicability have been described in experimental pharmacological and behavioral cognitive studies. Efforts to prevent biases that contribute to non-replicable scientific protocols and to improve experimental rigor for reproducibility are increasingly seen as a basic requirement for the integrity of scientific research. Synaptic plasticity, encompassing long-term potentiation (LTP), is believed to underlie mechanisms of learning and memory. The present study was undertaken in Long-Evans (LE) rats, a strain of rat commonly used in cognitive behavioral tests, to (1) compare three LTP tetanisation protocols, namely, the high-frequency stimulation (HFS), the theta-burst stimulation (TBS), and the paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) at the Schaffer collateral-CA1 stratum radiatum synapse and to (2) assess sensitivity to acute pharmacology. Results: (1) When compared to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, the HFS using a stimulus intensity of 50% of the maximum slope obtained from input/output (I/O) curves elicited lower and higher thresholds of synaptic plasticity responses in SD and LE rats, respectively. The 2-train TBS protocol significantly enhanced the LTP response in LE rats over the 5- and 10-train TBS protocols in both strains, and the 5 × TBS protocol inducing a subthreshold LTP response was used in subsequent pharmacological studies in LE rats. The PPF protocol, investigating the locus of the LTP response, showed no difference for the selected interstimulus intervals. (2) Scopolamine, a nonspecific muscarinic antagonist, had a subtle effect, whereas donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, significantly enhanced the LTP response, demonstrating the sensitivity of the TBS protocol to enhanced cholinergic tone. MK-801, a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist, significantly reduced LTP response, while memantine, another NMDA antagonist, had no effect on LTP response, likely associated with a weaker TBS protocol. PQ10, a phosphodiesterase-10 inhibitor, significantly enhanced the TBS-induced LTP response, but did not change the PPF response. Overall, the results confirm the strain-dependent differences in the form of synaptic plasticity, replicate earlier plasticity results, and report effective protocols that generate a relatively subthreshold margin of LTP induction and maintenance, which are suitable for pharmacology in the LE rat strain mainly used in cognitive studies.
Collapse
|
8
|
Perlman SL. Update on the Treatment of Ataxia: Medication and Emerging Therapies. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:1660-1664. [PMID: 33021724 PMCID: PMC7851298 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-020-00941-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
While rehabilitation therapies always help patients with ataxia, there are currently no FDA-approved treatments for ataxia. Medications are available to treat symptoms that may complicate an ataxic illness, e.g., tremor, myoclonus, dystonia, and rigidity, which are discussed elsewhere in this volume. Spasticity, pain, fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive decline, and bowel and bladder dysfunction, if they occur, all have multiple available drugs and therapies for symptomatic use. There is also an extensive literature on off-label uses of various medications to improve imbalance. The pipeline of emerging therapies for symptomatic and possible disease-modifying management of ataxia gives hope that we will soon see the first of many FDA-approved drugs for ataxic illnesses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Perlman
- Clinical Professor of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang H, Lu J, Wu S. Sp4 controls constitutive expression of neuronal serine racemase and NF-E2-related factor-2 mediates its induction by valproic acid. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2020; 1863:194597. [PMID: 32603878 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2020.194597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Serine racemase (SR) synthesizes l-type serine to its enantimor, d-serine which participates in physiological processes and in pathological conditions. In the central nervous system, SR is highly expressed in neurons and astrocytes but expressed at relatively lower amount in microglia. However, the mechanism by which SR is highly expessed in neurons is hitherto unknown. We report that the SR mRNA and protein levels in Neuro-2a were increased by valproic acid (VPA), a neuron differentiation stimulator as well as a histone deacetylase inhibitor. SR proximal promoter contained nine putative Sp-binding elements and in the exon 1, three putative anti-oxidant elements (AREs) were conservative among human, rat, and mouse genome. The promoter constructs including 5'-, 3'-fragment, and full length fragment from mouse were individually cloned into a luciferase reporter. Using dual-luciferase assay, the promoter harboring 3'-fragment contained much lower activity than the construct containing 5'-fragment which was though resistant to VPA induction, relative to 3'-fragment. Overexpression of Sp4 or Nrf2 increased whereas knockdown of either decreased Srr mRNA and SR protein. Using site-directed mutagenesis, mutation of Sp-binding elements or AREs in the constructs significantly decreased luciferase activity of the corresponding promoter construct. With chromatin immunoprecipitation, Sp4 was demonstrated to interact directly with the Sp-binding elements whereas Nrf2 bound AREs in Srr mRNA promoter. Altogether, our study highlights that Sp4 controls constitutive expression of SR in neuron and VPA mediates SR expression in N2A cells which is associated with its effect on neuron differentiation, that is, the effect is mediated via Nrf2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- He Zhang
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and the Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China; State Key Laboratory of Optometry, Ophthalmology, and Visual Science, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325003, China
| | - Jinfang Lu
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and the Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China; School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Shengzhou Wu
- School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and the Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, China; State Key Laboratory of Optometry, Ophthalmology, and Visual Science, 270 Xueyuan Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
The medial prefrontal cortex - hippocampus circuit that integrates information of object, place and time to construct episodic memory in rodents: Behavioral, anatomical and neurochemical properties. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 113:373-407. [PMID: 32298711 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Rats and mice have been demonstrated to show episodic-like memory, a prototype of episodic memory, as defined by an integrated memory of the experience of an object or event, in a particular place and time. Such memory can be assessed via the use of spontaneous object exploration paradigms, variably designed to measure memory for object, place, temporal order and object-location inter-relationships. We review the methodological properties of these tests, the neurobiology about time and discuss the evidence for the involvement of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), entorhinal cortex (EC) and hippocampus, with respect to their anatomy, neurotransmitter systems and functional circuits. The systematic analysis suggests that a specific circuit between the mPFC, lateral EC and hippocampus encodes the information for event, place and time of occurrence into the complex episodic-like memory, as a top-down regulation from the mPFC onto the hippocampus. This circuit can be distinguished from the neuronal component memory systems for processing the individual information of object, time and place.
Collapse
|
11
|
Effects of arsenic exposure on d-serine metabolism in the hippocampus of offspring mice at different developmental stages. Arch Toxicol 2019; 94:77-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02616-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
12
|
Liu H, Zhao MJ, Wang ZY, Han QQ, Wu HY, Mao XF, Wang YX. Involvement of d-amino acid oxidase in cerebral ischaemia induced by transient occlusion of the middle cerebral artery in mice. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:3336-3349. [PMID: 31309542 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE d-Amino acid oxidase (DAAO) is a flavine adenine dinucleotide-containing flavoenzyme and specifically catalyses oxidative deamination of d-amino acids. This study aimed to explore the association between increased cerebral DAAO expression or enzymic activity and the development of cerebral ischaemia. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH A mouse model of transient (90 min) middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was established, and western blotting, enzymic activity assay, and fluorescent immunostaining techniques were used. KEY RESULTS The expression and enzymic activity of DAAO increased over time in the cortical peri-infarct area of the mice subjected to transient MCAO. The DAAO was specifically expressed in astrocytes, and its double immunostaining with the astrocytic intracellular marker, glial fibrillary acidic protein, in the cortical peri-infarct area was up-regulated following ischaemic insult, with peak increase on Day 5 after MCAO. Single intravenous injection of the specific and potent DAAO inhibitor Compound SUN reduced the cerebral DAAO enzymic activity and attenuated neuronal infarction and neurobehavioural deficits with optimal improvement apparent immediately after the MCAO procedure. The neuroprotective effect was dose dependent, with ED50 values of 3.9-4.5 mg·kg-1 . Intracerebroventricular injection of the DAAO gene silencer siRNA/DAAO significantly reduced cerebral DAAO expression and attenuated MCAO-induced neuronal infarction and behavioural deficits. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our results, for the first time, demonstrated that increased cerebral astrocytic DAAO expression and enzymic activity were causally associated with the development of neuronal destruction following ischaemic insults, suggesting that targeting cerebral DAAO could be a potential approach for treatment of neurological conditions following cerebral ischaemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Liu
- King's Lab, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Jing Zhao
- King's Lab, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| | - Zi-Ying Wang
- King's Lab, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiao-Qiao Han
- King's Lab, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-Yun Wu
- King's Lab, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Fang Mao
- King's Lab, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Xiang Wang
- King's Lab, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Pharmacy, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
A translational EEG-based approach to assess modulation of long-lasting NMDAR-dependent synaptic plasticity. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:3687-3693. [PMID: 31392357 PMCID: PMC6892763 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-05341-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND NYX-2925 is a novel N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) modulator that has been shown to facilitate both NMDAR-dependent long-term potentiation (LTP) in vitro and learning and memory in vivo. OBJECTIVE The present studies examine the effects of NYX-2925 on NMDAR-dependent auditory LTP (aLTP) in vivo. METHODS NMDAR-dependent aLTP and NMDAR-dependent auditory mismatch negativity (MMN) was measured, as well as changes in resting-state qEEG power. RESULTS NYX-2925 (1, 10 mg/kg PO) increased aLTP 1 h after auditory tetanus measured by the post- minus pre-tetanus difference waveform 140-180 ms post tone onset. NYX-2925 (0.1, 1 mg/kg PO) facilitated MMN measured by the difference waveform (i.e., deviant minus standard tones). NYX-2925 (0.1, 1, 10 mg/kg PO) also enhanced resting-state alpha qEEG power. Conversely, the NMDAR glutamate site antagonist CPP (10 mg/kg IP) reduces alpha power and MMN and produces an opposite effect as NYX-2925 on aLTP. CONCLUSIONS Together, these data suggest that the activation of the NMDAR by NYX-2925 enhances synaptic plasticity in vivo, which may both reduce symptoms of neurological disorders and serve as a biomarker for drug effects. This is the first demonstration of a long-lasting (1-h post-tetanus) effect of NMDAR modulation on synaptic plasticity processes in vivo using a noninvasive technique in freely behaving animals.
Collapse
|
14
|
Pollegioni L, Sacchi S, Murtas G. Human D-Amino Acid Oxidase: Structure, Function, and Regulation. Front Mol Biosci 2018; 5:107. [PMID: 30547037 PMCID: PMC6279847 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2018.00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
D-Amino acid oxidase (DAAO) is an FAD-containing flavoenzyme that catalyzes with absolute stereoselectivity the oxidative deamination of all natural D-amino acids, the only exception being the acidic ones. This flavoenzyme plays different roles during evolution and in different tissues in humans. Its three-dimensional structure is well conserved during evolution: minute changes are responsible for the functional differences between enzymes from microorganism sources and those from humans. In recent years several investigations focused on human DAAO, mainly because of its role in degrading the neuromodulator D-serine in the central nervous system. D-Serine is the main coagonist of N-methyl D-aspartate receptors, i.e., excitatory amino acid receptors critically involved in main brain functions and pathologic conditions. Human DAAO possesses a weak interaction with the FAD cofactor; thus, in vivo it should be largely present in the inactive, apoprotein form. Binding of active-site ligands and the substrate stabilizes flavin binding, thus pushing the acquisition of catalytic competence. Interestingly, the kinetic efficiency of the enzyme on D-serine is very low. Human DAAO interacts with various proteins, in this way modulating its activity, targeting, and cell stability. The known properties of human DAAO suggest that its activity must be finely tuned to fulfill a main physiological function such as the control of D-serine levels in the brain. At present, studies are focusing on the epigenetic modulation of human DAAO expression and the role of post-translational modifications on its main biochemical properties at the cellular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loredano Pollegioni
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Silvia Sacchi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulia Murtas
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Varese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Distinctive Roles of D-Amino Acids in the Homochiral World: Chirality of Amino Acids Modulates Mammalian Physiology and Pathology. Keio J Med 2018; 68:1-16. [PMID: 29794368 DOI: 10.2302/kjm.2018-0001-ir] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Living organisms enantioselectively employ L-amino acids as the molecular architecture of protein synthesized in the ribosome. Although L-amino acids are dominantly utilized in most biological processes, accumulating evidence points to the distinctive roles of D-amino acids in non-ribosomal physiology. Among the three domains of life, bacteria have the greatest capacity to produce a wide variety of D-amino acids. In contrast, archaea and eukaryotes are thought generally to synthesize only two kinds of D-amino acids: D-serine and D-aspartate. In mammals, D-serine is critical for neurotransmission as an endogenous coagonist of N-methyl D-aspartate receptors. Additionally, D-aspartate is associated with neurogenesis and endocrine systems. Furthermore, recognition of D-amino acids originating in bacteria is linked to systemic and mucosal innate immunity. Among the roles played by D-amino acids in human pathology, the dysfunction of neurotransmission mediated by D-serine is implicated in psychiatric and neurological disorders. Non-enzymatic conversion of L-aspartate or L-serine residues to their D-configurations is involved in age-associated protein degeneration. Moreover, the measurement of plasma or urinary D-/L-serine or D-/L-aspartate levels may have diagnostic or prognostic value in the treatment of kidney diseases. This review aims to summarize current understanding of D-amino-acid-associated biology with a major focus on mammalian physiology and pathology.
Collapse
|
16
|
Molla G. Competitive Inhibitors Unveil Structure/Function Relationships in Human D-Amino Acid Oxidase. Front Mol Biosci 2017; 4:80. [PMID: 29250527 PMCID: PMC5715370 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2017.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
D-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) catalyzes the oxidative deamination of several neutral D-amino acids and is the enzyme mainly responsible (together with serine racemase) for degrading D-serine (D-Ser) in the central nervous system of mammals. This D-amino acid, which binds the coagonist site of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, is thus a key neuromodulator of glutamatergic neurotransmission. Altered D-Ser metabolism results in several pathological conditions (e.g., amylotrophic lateral sclerosis or schizophrenia, SZ) for which effective "broad spectrum" pharmaceutical drugs are not yet available. In particular, the correlation between reduced D-Ser concentration and SZ led to a renaissance of biochemical interest in human DAAO (hDAAO). In the last 10 years, public and corporate research laboratories undertook huge efforts to study the structural, enzymatic, and physiological properties of the human flavoenzyme and to identify novel effective inhibitors which, acting as pharmaceutical drugs, could decrease hDAAO activity, thus restoring the physiological concentration of D-Ser. Although, none of the identified hDAAO inhibitors has reached the market yet, from a biochemical point of view, these compounds turned out to be invaluable for gaining a detailed understanding of the structure/function relationships at the molecular level in the mammalian DAAO, in particular of the interaction between ligand and the enzyme. This detailed knowledge, together with several recent studies concerning the interaction of the human enzyme with other protein regulative partners, its subcellular localization, and in vivo degradation, contributed to gaining comprehensive knowledge of the structure, function, and physiopathological role of this important human enzyme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Molla
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy.,The Protein Factory Research Center, Politecnico of Milano and University of Insubria, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Howley E, Bestwick M, Fradley R, Harrison H, Leveridge M, Okada K, Fieldhouse C, Farnaby W, Canning H, Sykes AP, Merchant K, Hazel K, Kerr C, Kinsella N, Walsh L, Livermore DG, Hoffman I, Ellery J, Mitchell P, Patel T, Carlton M, Barnes M, Miller DJ. Assessment of the Target Engagement and D-Serine Biomarker Profiles of the D-Amino Acid Oxidase Inhibitors Sodium Benzoate and PGM030756. Neurochem Res 2017; 42:3279-3288. [PMID: 28780732 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-017-2367-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Irregular N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function is one of the main hypotheses employed to facilitate understanding of the underlying disease state of schizophrenia. Although direct agonism of the NMDAR has not yielded promising therapeutics, advances have been made by modulating the NMDAR co-agonist site which is activated by glycine and D-serine. One approach to activate the co-agonist site is to increase synaptic D-serine levels through inhibition of D-amino acid oxidase (DAO), the major catabolic clearance pathway for this and other D-amino acids. A number of DAO inhibitors have been developed but most have not entered clinical trials. One exception to this is sodium benzoate which has demonstrated efficacy in small trials of schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. Herein we provide data on the effect of sodium benzoate and an optimised Takeda compound, PGM030756 on ex vivo DAO enzyme occupancy and cerebellar D-serine levels in mice. Both compounds achieve high levels of enzyme occupancy; although lower doses of PGM030756 (1, 3 and 10 mg/kg) were required to achieve this compared to sodium benzoate (300, 1000 mg/kg). Cerebellar D-serine levels were increased by both agents with a delay of approximately 6 h after dosing before the peak effect was achieved. Our data and methods may be useful in understanding the effects of sodium benzoate that have been seen in clinical trials of schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease and to support the potential clinical assessment of other DAO inhibitors, such as PGM030756, which demonstrate good enzyme occupancy and D-serine increases following administration of low oral doses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eimear Howley
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Michael Bestwick
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Rosa Fradley
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK.
| | - Helen Harrison
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Mathew Leveridge
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Kengo Okada
- Biomolecular Research Laboratories, Shonan Research Center, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Ltd, 26-1, Muraoka-Higashi 2-chome, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, 25108555, Japan
| | - Charlotte Fieldhouse
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Will Farnaby
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Hannah Canning
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Andy P Sykes
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Kevin Merchant
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Katherine Hazel
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Catrina Kerr
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Natasha Kinsella
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Louise Walsh
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - David G Livermore
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Isaac Hoffman
- Takeda California Inc., 10410 Science Center Dr, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
| | - Jonathan Ellery
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Phillip Mitchell
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Toshal Patel
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Mark Carlton
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - Matt Barnes
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| | - David J Miller
- Takeda Cambridge Ltd, 418 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0PA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
O'Tuathaigh CMP, Moran PM, Zhen XC, Waddington JL. Translating advances in the molecular basis of schizophrenia into novel cognitive treatment strategies. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:3173-3190. [PMID: 28667666 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence and severity of cognitive symptoms, including working memory, executive dysfunction and attentional impairment, contributes materially to functional impairment in schizophrenia. Cognitive symptoms have proved to be resistant to both first- and second-generation antipsychotic drugs. Efforts to develop a consensus set of cognitive domains that are both disrupted in schizophrenia and are amenable to cross-species validation (e.g. the National Institute of Mental Health Cognitive Neuroscience Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia and Research Domain Criteria initiatives) are an important step towards standardization of outcome measures that can be used in preclinical testing of new drugs. While causative genetic mutations have not been identified, new technologies have identified novel genes as well as hitherto candidate genes previously implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and/or mechanisms of antipsychotic efficacy. This review comprises a selective summary of these developments, particularly phenotypic data arising from preclinical genetic models for cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia, with the aim of indicating potential new directions for pro-cognitive therapeutics. Linked Articles This article is part of a themed section on Pharmacology of Cognition: a Panacea for Neuropsychiatric Disease? To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.19/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colm M P O'Tuathaigh
- School of Medicine, University College Cork, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paula M Moran
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Xuechu C Zhen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research & Therapy for Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - John L Waddington
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research & Therapy for Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Goff DC. D-cycloserine in Schizophrenia: New Strategies for Improving Clinical Outcomes by Enhancing Plasticity. Curr Neuropharmacol 2017; 15:21-34. [PMID: 26915421 PMCID: PMC5327448 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x14666160225154812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dysregulation of N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor signaling is strongly implicated in schizophrenia. Based on the ketamine model of NMDA receptor hypoactivity, therapeutic approaches designed to maintain a sustained increase in agonist activity at the glycine site of the NMDA receptor have produced promising, although inconsistent, efficacy for negative symptoms. Methods A review of the published literature on D-cycloserine (DCS) pharmacology in animal models and in clinical studies was performed. Findings relevant to DCS effects on memory and plasticity and their potential clinical application to schizophrenia were summarized. Results Studies in animals and clinical trials in patients with anxiety disorders have demonstrated that single or intermittent dosing with DCS enhances memory consolidation. Preliminary trials in patients with schizophrenia suggest that intermittent dosing with DCS may produce persistent improvement of negative symptoms and enhance learning when combined with cognitive behavioral therapy for delusions or with cognitive remediation. The pharmacology of DCS is complex, since it acts as a “super agonist” at NMDA receptors containing GluN2C subunits and, under certain conditions, it may act as an antagonist at NMDA receptors containing GluN2B subunits. Conclusions There are preliminary findings that support a role for D-cycloserine in schizophrenia as a strategy to enhance neuroplasticity and memory. However, additional studies with DCS are needed to confirm these findings. In addition, clinical trials with positive and negative allosteric modulators with greater specificity for NMDA receptor subtypes are needed to identify the optimal strategy for enhancing neuroplasticity in schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald C Goff
- Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, NYU School of Medicine, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Pritchett D, Taylor AM, Barkus C, Engle SJ, Brandon NJ, Sharp T, Foster RG, Harrison PJ, Peirson SN, Bannerman DM. Searching for cognitive enhancement in the Morris water maze: better and worse performance in D-amino acid oxidase knockout (Dao(-/-)) mice. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 43:979-89. [PMID: 26833794 PMCID: PMC4855640 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
A common strategy when searching for cognitive‐enhancing drugs has been to target the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR), given its putative role in synaptic plasticity and learning. Evidence in favour of this approach has come primarily from studies with rodents using behavioural assays like the Morris water maze. D‐amino acid oxidase (DAO) degrades neutral D‐amino acids such as D‐serine, the primary endogenous co‐agonist acting at the glycine site of the synaptic NMDAR. Inhibiting DAO could therefore provide an effective and viable means of enhancing cognition, particularly in disorders like schizophrenia, in which NMDAR hypofunction is implicated. Indirect support for this notion comes from the enhanced hippocampal long‐term potentiation and facilitated water maze acquisition of ddY/Dao− mice, which lack DAO activity due to a point mutation in the gene. Here, in Dao knockout (Dao−/−) mice, we report both better and worse water maze performance, depending on the radial distance of the hidden platform from the side wall of the pool. Dao−/− mice displayed an increased innate preference for swimming in the periphery of the maze (possibly due to heightened anxiety), which facilitated the discovery of a peripherally located platform, but delayed the discovery of a centrally located platform. By contrast, Dao−/− mice exhibited normal performance in two alternative assays of long‐term spatial memory: the appetitive and aversive Y‐maze reference memory tasks. Taken together, these results question the proposed relationship between DAO inactivation and enhanced long‐term associative spatial memory. They also have generic implications for how Morris water maze studies are performed and interpreted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Pritchett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology), John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Amy M Taylor
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Tinbergen Building, 9 South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3UD, UK
| | | | | | | | - Trevor Sharp
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Russell G Foster
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology), John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul J Harrison
- Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stuart N Peirson
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology), John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - David M Bannerman
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Tinbergen Building, 9 South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3UD, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Goff D. The Therapeutic Role of d-Cycloserine in Schizophrenia. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2016; 76:39-66. [PMID: 27288073 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2016.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The ketamine model for schizophrenia has led to several therapeutic strategies for enhancing N-methyl d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activity, including agonists directed at the glycine receptor site and inhibitors of glycine reuptake. Because ketamine may primarily block NMDA receptors on inhibitory interneurons, drugs that reduce glutamate release have also been investigated as a means of countering a deficit in inhibitory input. These approaches have met with some success for the treatment of negative and positive symptoms, but results have not been consistent. An emerging approach with the NMDA partial agonist, d-cycloserine (DCS), aims to enhance plasticity by intermittent treatment. Early trials have demonstrated benefit with intermittent DCS dosing for negative symptoms and memory. When combined with cognitive remediation, intermittent DCS treatment enhanced learning on a practiced auditory discrimination task and when added to cognitive behavioral therapy, DCS improved delusional severity in subjects who received DCS with the first CBT session. These studies require replication, but point toward a promising strategy for the treatment of schizophrenia and other disorders of plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Goff
- NYU School of Medicine, New York, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pritchett D, Hasan S, Tam SKE, Engle SJ, Brandon NJ, Sharp T, Foster RG, Harrison PJ, Bannerman DM, Peirson SN. d-amino acid oxidase knockout (Dao(-/-) ) mice show enhanced short-term memory performance and heightened anxiety, but no sleep or circadian rhythm disruption. Eur J Neurosci 2015; 41:1167-79. [PMID: 25816902 PMCID: PMC4744680 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
d-amino acid oxidase (DAO, DAAO) is an enzyme that degrades d-serine, the primary endogenous co-agonist of the synaptic N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor. Convergent evidence implicates DAO in the pathophysiology and potential treatment of schizophrenia. To better understand the functional role of DAO, we characterized the behaviour of the first genetically engineered Dao knockout (Dao(-/-) ) mouse. Our primary objective was to assess both spatial and non-spatial short-term memory performance. Relative to wildtype (Dao(+/+) ) littermate controls, Dao(-/-) mice demonstrated enhanced spatial recognition memory performance, improved odour recognition memory performance, and enhanced spontaneous alternation in the T-maze. In addition, Dao(-/-) mice displayed increased anxiety-like behaviour in five tests of approach/avoidance conflict: the open field test, elevated plus maze, successive alleys, light/dark box and novelty-suppressed feeding. Despite evidence of a reciprocal relationship between anxiety and sleep and circadian function in rodents, we found no evidence of sleep or circadian rhythm disruption in Dao(-/-) mice. Overall, our observations are consistent with, and extend, findings in the natural mutant ddY/Dao(-) line. These data add to a growing body of preclinical evidence linking the inhibition, inactivation or deletion of DAO with enhanced cognitive performance. Our results have implications for the development of DAO inhibitors as therapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Pritchett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology), John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Moaddel R, Luckenbaugh DA, Xie Y, Villaseñor A, Brutsche NE, Machado-Vieira R, Ramamoorthy A, Lorenzo MP, Garcia A, Bernier M, Torjman MC, Barbas C, Zarate CA, Wainer IW. D-serine plasma concentration is a potential biomarker of (R,S)-ketamine antidepressant response in subjects with treatment-resistant depression. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2015; 232:399-409. [PMID: 25056852 PMCID: PMC5990001 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-014-3669-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE (R,S)-ketamine is a rapid and effective antidepressant drug that produces a response in two thirds of patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). The underlying biochemical differences between a (R,S)-ketamine responder (KET-R) and non-responder (KET-NR) have not been definitively identified but may involve serine metabolism. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between baseline plasma concentrations of D-serine and its precursor L-serine and antidepressant response to (R,S)-ketamine in TRD patients. METHODS Plasma samples were obtained from 21 TRD patients at baseline, 60 min before initiation of the (R,S)-ketamine infusion. Patients were classified as KET-Rs (n = 8) or KET-NRs (n = 13) based upon the difference in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) scores at baseline and 230 min after infusion, with response defined as a ≥50 % decrease in MADRS score. The plasma concentrations of D-serine and L-serine were determined using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS Baseline D-serine plasma concentrations were significantly lower in KET-Rs (3.02 ± 0.21 μM) than in KET-NRs (4.68 ± 0.81 μM), p < 0.001. A significant relationship between baseline D-serine plasma concentrations and percent change in MADRS at 230 min was determined using a Pearson correlation, r = 0.77, p < 0.001, with baseline D-serine explaining 60 % of the variance in (R,S)-ketamine response. The baseline concentrations of L-serine (L-Ser) in KET-Rs were also significantly lower than those measured in KET-NRs (66.2 ± 9.6 μM vs 242.9 ± 5.6 μM, respectively; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate that the baseline D-serine plasma concentrations were significantly lower in KET-Rs than in KET-NRs and suggest that this variable can be used to predict an antidepressant response following (R,S)-ketamine administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruin Moaddel
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hopkins SC, Heffernan MLR, Saraswat LD, Bowen CA, Melnick L, Hardy LW, Orsini MA, Allen MS, Koch P, Spear KL, Foglesong RJ, Soukri M, Chytil M, Fang QK, Jones SW, Varney MA, Panatier A, Oliet SHR, Pollegioni L, Piubelli L, Molla G, Nardini M, Large TH. Structural, Kinetic, and Pharmacodynamic Mechanisms of d-Amino Acid Oxidase Inhibition by Small Molecules. J Med Chem 2013; 56:3710-24. [DOI: 10.1021/jm4002583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seth C. Hopkins
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | | | - Lakshmi D. Saraswat
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Carrie A. Bowen
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Laurence Melnick
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Larry W. Hardy
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Michael A. Orsini
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | | | - Patrick Koch
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Kerry L. Spear
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | | | | | - Milan Chytil
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Q. Kevin Fang
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Steven W. Jones
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Mark A. Varney
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| | - Aude Panatier
- Neurocentre Magendie, Inserm U862 and Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, F-33077, France
| | - Stephane H. R. Oliet
- Neurocentre Magendie, Inserm U862 and Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, F-33077, France
| | - Loredano Pollegioni
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie
e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via J. H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
- The Protein Factory, Politecnico di Milano, ICRM-CNR and Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Mancinelli 7,
20131 Milano, Italy
| | - Luciano Piubelli
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie
e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via J. H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
- The Protein Factory, Politecnico di Milano, ICRM-CNR and Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Mancinelli 7,
20131 Milano, Italy
| | - Gianluca Molla
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie
e Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via J. H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
- The Protein Factory, Politecnico di Milano, ICRM-CNR and Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Via Mancinelli 7,
20131 Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Nardini
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, I-20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Thomas H. Large
- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc., Marlborough, Massachusetts 01752, United States
| |
Collapse
|