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Gomez K, Santiago U, Nelson TS, Allen HN, Calderon-Rivera A, Hestehave S, Rodríguez Palma EJ, Zhou Y, Duran P, Loya-Lopez S, Zhu E, Kumar U, Shields R, Koseli E, McKiver B, Giuvelis D, Zuo W, Inyang KE, Dorame A, Chefdeville A, Ran D, Perez-Miller S, Lu Y, Liu X, Handoko, Arora PS, Patek M, Moutal A, Khanna M, Hu H, Laumet G, King T, Wang J, Damaj MI, Korczeniewska OA, Camacho CJ, Khanna R. A peptidomimetic modulator of the Ca V2.2 N-type calcium channel for chronic pain. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2305215120. [PMID: 37972067 PMCID: PMC10666126 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2305215120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Transmembrane Cav2.2 (N-type) voltage-gated calcium channels are genetically and pharmacologically validated, clinically relevant pain targets. Clinical block of Cav2.2 (e.g., with Prialt/Ziconotide) or indirect modulation [e.g., with gabapentinoids such as Gabapentin (GBP)] mitigates chronic pain but is encumbered by side effects and abuse liability. The cytosolic auxiliary subunit collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) targets Cav2.2 to the sensory neuron membrane and regulates their function via an intrinsically disordered motif. A CRMP2-derived peptide (CBD3) uncouples the Cav2.2-CRMP2 interaction to inhibit calcium influx, transmitter release, and pain. We developed and applied a molecular dynamics approach to identify the A1R2 dipeptide in CBD3 as the anchoring Cav2.2 motif and designed pharmacophore models to screen 27 million compounds on the open-access server ZincPharmer. Of 200 curated hits, 77 compounds were assessed using depolarization-evoked calcium influx in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. Nine small molecules were tested electrophysiologically, while one (CBD3063) was also evaluated biochemically and behaviorally. CBD3063 uncoupled Cav2.2 from CRMP2, reduced membrane Cav2.2 expression and Ca2+ currents, decreased neurotransmission, reduced fiber photometry-based calcium responses in response to mechanical stimulation, and reversed neuropathic and inflammatory pain across sexes in two different species without changes in sensory, sedative, depressive, and cognitive behaviors. CBD3063 is a selective, first-in-class, CRMP2-based peptidomimetic small molecule, which allosterically regulates Cav2.2 to achieve analgesia and pain relief without negative side effect profiles. In summary, CBD3063 could potentially be a more effective alternative to GBP for pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Gomez
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Ulises Santiago
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15261
| | - Tyler S. Nelson
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Heather N. Allen
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Aida Calderon-Rivera
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Sara Hestehave
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Erick J. Rodríguez Palma
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ85724
| | - Paz Duran
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Santiago Loya-Lopez
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Elaine Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
- Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY10016
| | - Upasana Kumar
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Center for Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Newark, NJ07101
| | - Rory Shields
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies, Newark Health Science Campus, Newark, NJ07101
| | - Eda Koseli
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Translational Research Initiative for Pain and Neuropathy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Bryan McKiver
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Translational Research Initiative for Pain and Neuropathy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Denise Giuvelis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences, University of New England, Biddeford, ME04005
| | - Wanhong Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ07103
| | | | - Angie Dorame
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ85724
| | - Aude Chefdeville
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ85724
| | - Dongzhi Ran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing400016, China
| | - Samantha Perez-Miller
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing400016, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing400016, China
| | - Handoko
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, NY10003
| | | | - Marcel Patek
- Bright Rock Path Limited Liability Company, Tucson, AZ85724
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO63104
| | - May Khanna
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
| | - Huijuan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ07103
| | - Geoffroy Laumet
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI48824
| | - Tamara King
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Center for Excellence in the Neurosciences, University of New England, Biddeford, ME04005
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Care and Pain Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY10016
- Interdisciplinary Pain Research Program, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY10016
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology and Neuroscience Institute, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY10010
| | - M. Imad Damaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Translational Research Initiative for Pain and Neuropathy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Olga A. Korczeniewska
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Center for Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Newark, NJ07101
- Rutgers School of Graduate Studies, Newark Health Science Campus, Newark, NJ07101
| | - Carlos J. Camacho
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA15261
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY10010
- New York University Pain Research Center, New York, NY10010
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology and Neuroscience Institute, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY10010
- Chemical, and Biomolecular Engineering Department, Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, New York City, NY11201
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2
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Lauerer RJ, Lerche H. Voltage-gated calcium channels in genetic epilepsies. J Neurochem 2023. [PMID: 37822150 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) are abundant in the central nervous system and serve a broad spectrum of functions, either directly in cellular excitability or indirectly to regulate Ca2+ homeostasis. Ca2+ ions act as one of the main connections in excitation-transcription coupling, muscle contraction and excitation-exocytosis coupling, including synaptic transmission. In recent years, many genes encoding VGCCs main α or additional auxiliary subunits have been associated with epilepsy. This review sums up the current state of knowledge on disease mechanisms and provides guidance on disease-specific therapies where applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Lauerer
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University and University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Holger Lerche
- Department of Neurology and Epileptology, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University and University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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3
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Spicarova D, Nerandzic V, Muzik D, Pontearso M, Bhattacharyya A, Nagy I, Palecek J. Inhibition of synaptic transmission by anandamide precursor 20:4-NAPE is mediated by TRPV1 receptors under inflammatory conditions. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1188503. [PMID: 37426071 PMCID: PMC10325575 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1188503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential ion channel, vanilloid subfamily, type 1 (TRPV1) cation channel, and cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) are essential in the modulation of nociceptive signaling in the spinal cord dorsal horn that underlies different pathological pain states. TRPV1 and CB1 receptors share the endogenous agonist anandamide (AEA), produced from N-arachidonoylphosphatidylethanolamine (20:4-NAPE). We investigated the effect of the anandamide precursor 20:4-NAPE on synaptic activity in naive and inflammatory conditions. Patch-clamp recordings of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) from superficial dorsal horn neurons in rat acute spinal cord slices were used. Peripheral inflammation was induced by subcutaneous injection of carrageenan. Under naive conditions, mEPSCs frequency (0.96 ± 0.11 Hz) was significantly decreased after 20 μM 20:4-NAPE application (55.3 ± 7.4%). This 20:4-NAPE-induced inhibition was blocked by anandamide-synthesizing enzyme N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) inhibitor LEI-401. In addition, the inhibition was prevented by the CB1 receptor antagonist PF 514273 (0.2 μM) but not by the TRPV1 receptor antagonist SB 366791 (10 μM). Under inflammatory conditions, 20:4-NAPE (20 μM) also exhibited a significant inhibitory effect (74.5 ± 8.9%) on the mEPSCs frequency that was prevented by the TRPV1 receptor antagonist SB 366791 but not by PF 514273 application. Our results show that 20:4-NAPE application has a significant modulatory effect on spinal cord nociceptive signaling that is mediated by both TRPV1 and CB1 presynaptic receptors, whereas peripheral inflammation changes the underlying mechanism. The switch between TRPV1 and CB1 receptor activation by the AEA precursor 20:4-NAPE during inflammation may play an important role in nociceptive processing, hence the development of pathological pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Spicarova
- Laboratory of Pain Research, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Vladimir Nerandzic
- Laboratory of Pain Research, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - David Muzik
- Laboratory of Pain Research, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Monica Pontearso
- Laboratory of Pain Research, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Anirban Bhattacharyya
- Laboratory of Pain Research, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Istvan Nagy
- Section of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Faculty of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Physiology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Jiri Palecek
- Laboratory of Pain Research, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
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Nieto-Rostro M, Patel R, Dickenson AH, Dolphin AC. Nerve injury increases native Ca V 2.2 trafficking in dorsal root ganglion mechanoreceptors. Pain 2023; 164:1264-1279. [PMID: 36524581 PMCID: PMC10184561 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Neuronal N-type (Ca V 2.2) voltage-gated calcium channels are essential for neurotransmission from primary afferent terminals in the dorsal horn. In this study, we have used a knockin mouse containing Ca V 2.2 with an inserted extracellular hemagglutinin tag (Ca V 2.2_HA), to visualise the pattern of expression of endogenous Ca V 2.2 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and their primary afferents in the dorsal horn. We examined the effect of partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL) and found an increase in Ca V 2.2_HA only in large and medium dorsal root ganglion neurons and also in deep dorsal horn synaptic terminals. Furthermore, there is a parallel increase in coexpression with GFRα1, present in a population of low threshold mechanoreceptors, both in large DRG neurons and in their terminals. The increased expression of Ca V 2.2_HA in these DRG neurons and their terminals is dependent on the presence of the auxiliary subunit α 2 δ-1, which is required for channel trafficking to the cell surface and to synaptic terminals, and it likely contributes to enhanced synaptic transmission at these synapses following PSNL. By contrast, the increase in GFRα1 is not altered in α 2 δ-1-knockout mice. We also found that following PSNL, there is patchy loss of glomerular synapses immunoreactive for Ca V 2.2_HA and CGRP or IB4, restricted to the superficial layers of the dorsal horn. This reduction is not dependent on α 2 δ-1 and likely reflects partial deafferentation of C-nociceptor presynaptic terminals. Therefore, in this pain model, we can distinguish 2 different events affecting specific DRG terminals, with opposite consequences for Ca V 2.2_HA expression and function in the dorsal horn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Nieto-Rostro
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ryan Patel
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony H. Dickenson
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Annette C. Dolphin
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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5
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Hwang JY, Chung JJ. CatSper Calcium Channels: 20 Years On. Physiology (Bethesda) 2023; 38:0. [PMID: 36512352 PMCID: PMC10085559 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00028.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The flagellar-specific Ca2+ channel CatSper is the predominant Ca2+ entry site in mammalian sperm. CatSper-mediated Ca2+ signaling affects nearly every event that regulates sperm to acquire fertilizing capability. In this review, we summarize some of the main findings from 20 years of CatSper research and highlight recent progress and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Yeon Hwang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Jean-Ju Chung
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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6
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Cunningham KL, Littleton JT. Mechanisms controlling the trafficking, localization, and abundance of presynaptic Ca 2+ channels. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1116729. [PMID: 36710932 PMCID: PMC9880069 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1116729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) mediate Ca2+ influx to trigger neurotransmitter release at specialized presynaptic sites termed active zones (AZs). The abundance of VGCCs at AZs regulates neurotransmitter release probability (Pr ), a key presynaptic determinant of synaptic strength. Given this functional significance, defining the processes that cooperate to establish AZ VGCC abundance is critical for understanding how these mechanisms set synaptic strength and how they might be regulated to control presynaptic plasticity. VGCC abundance at AZs involves multiple steps, including channel biosynthesis (transcription, translation, and trafficking through the endomembrane system), forward axonal trafficking and delivery to synaptic terminals, incorporation and retention at presynaptic sites, and protein recycling. Here we discuss mechanisms that control VGCC abundance at synapses, highlighting findings from invertebrate and vertebrate models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L. Cunningham
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Biology, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
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7
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Caminski ES, Antunes FTT, Souza IA, Dallegrave E, Zamponi GW. Regulation of N-type calcium channels by nociceptin receptors and its possible role in neurological disorders. Mol Brain 2022; 15:95. [PMID: 36434658 PMCID: PMC9700961 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-022-00982-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of nociceptin opioid peptide receptors (NOP, a.k.a. opioid-like receptor-1, ORL-1) by the ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ, leads to G protein-dependent regulation of Cav2.2 (N-type) voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). This typically causes a reduction in calcium currents, triggering changes in presynaptic calcium levels and thus neurotransmission. Because of the widespread expression patterns of NOP and VGCCs across multiple brain regions, the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, and the dorsal root ganglia, this results in the alteration of numerous neurophysiological features. Here we review the regulation of N-type calcium channels by the NOP-nociceptin system in the context of neurological conditions such as anxiety, addiction, and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuelle Sistherenn Caminski
- grid.412344.40000 0004 0444 6202Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Laboratory of Research in Toxicology (LAPETOX), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS Brazil
| | - Flavia Tasmin Techera Antunes
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Ivana Assis Souza
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Eliane Dallegrave
- grid.412344.40000 0004 0444 6202Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Laboratory of Research in Toxicology (LAPETOX), Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS Brazil
| | - Gerald W. Zamponi
- grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
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8
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Voltage-dependent Ca V3.2 and Ca V2.2 channels in nociceptive pathways. Pflugers Arch 2022; 474:421-434. [PMID: 35043234 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-022-02666-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Noxious stimuli like cold, heat, pH change, tissue damage, and inflammation depolarize a membrane of peripheral endings of specialized nociceptive neurons which eventually results in the generation of an action potential. The electrical signal is carried along a long axon of nociceptive neurons from peripheral organs to soma located in dorsal root ganglions and further to the dorsal horn of the spinal cord where it is transmitted through a chemical synapse and is carried through the spinal thalamic tract into the brain. Two subtypes of voltage-activated calcium play a major role in signal transmission: a low voltage-activated CaV3.2 channel and a high voltage-activated CaV2.2 channel. The CaV3.2 channel contributes mainly to the signal conductance along nociceptive neurons while the principal role of the CaV2.2 channel is in the synaptic transmission at the dorsal horn. Both channels contribute to the signal initiation at peripheral nerve endings. This review summarizes current knowledge about the expression and distribution of these channels in a nociceptive pathway, the regulation of their expression and gating during pain pathology, and their suitability as targets for pharmacological therapy.
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9
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Sameera, Shah FA, Rashid S. Conformational ensembles of non-peptide ω-conotoxin mimetics and Ca +2 ion binding to human voltage-gated N-type calcium channel Ca v2.2. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:2357-2372. [PMID: 32994894 PMCID: PMC7498737 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic pain is the most complex and challenging clinical problem of a population that sets a major physical and economic burden at the global level. Ca2+-permeable channels functionally orchestrate the processing of pain signals. Among them, N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) hold prominent contribution in the pain signal transduction and serve as prime targets for synaptic transmission block and attenuation of neuropathic pain. Here, we present detailed in silico analysis to comprehend the underlying conformational changes upon Ca2+ ion passage through Cav2.2 to differentially correlate subtle transitions induced via binding of a conopeptide-mimetic alkylphenyl ether-based analogue MVIIA. Interestingly, pronounced conformational changes were witnessed at the proximal carboxyl-terminus of Cav2.2 that attained an upright orientation upon Ca+2 ion permeability. Moreover, remarkable changes were observed in the architecture of channel tunnel. These findings illustrate that inhibitor binding to Cav2.2 may induce more narrowing in the pore size as compared to Ca2+ binding through modulating the hydrophilicity pattern at the selectivity region. A significant reduction in the tunnel volume at the selectivity filter and its enhancement at the activation gate of Ca+2-bound Cav2.2 suggests that ion binding modulates the outward splaying of pore-lining S6 helices to open the voltage gate. Overall, current study delineates dynamic conformational ensembles in terms of Ca+2 ion and MVIIA-associated structural implications in the Cav2.2 that may help in better therapeutic intervention to chronic and neuropathic pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameera
- National Center for Bioinformatics, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Fawad Ali Shah
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sajid Rashid
- National Center for Bioinformatics, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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10
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Targeting the CaVα-CaVβ interaction yields an antagonist of the N-type CaV2.2 channel with broad antinociceptive efficacy. Pain 2020; 160:1644-1661. [PMID: 30933958 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of voltage-gated calcium (CaV) channels is a potential therapy for many neurological diseases including chronic pain. Neuronal CaV1/CaV2 channels are composed of α, β, γ and α2δ subunits. The β subunits of CaV channels are cytoplasmic proteins that increase the surface expression of the pore-forming α subunit of CaV. We targeted the high-affinity protein-protein interface of CaVβ's pocket within the CaVα subunit. Structure-based virtual screening of 50,000 small molecule library docked to the β subunit led to the identification of 2-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)-N-((4-((3-phenylpropyl)amino)quinazolin-2-yl)methyl)acetamide (IPPQ). This small molecule bound to CaVβ and inhibited its coupling with N-type voltage-gated calcium (CaV2.2) channels, leading to a reduction in CaV2.2 currents in rat dorsal root ganglion sensory neurons, decreased presynaptic localization of CaV2.2 in vivo, decreased frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic potentials and miniature excitatory postsynaptic potentials, and inhibited release of the nociceptive neurotransmitter calcitonin gene-related peptide from spinal cord. IPPQ did not target opioid receptors nor did it engage inhibitory G protein-coupled receptor signaling. IPPQ was antinociceptive in naive animals and reversed allodynia and hyperalgesia in models of acute (postsurgical) and neuropathic (spinal nerve ligation, chemotherapy- and gp120-induced peripheral neuropathy, and genome-edited neuropathy) pain. IPPQ did not cause akinesia or motor impairment, a common adverse effect of CaV2.2 targeting drugs, when injected into the brain. IPPQ, a quinazoline analog, represents a novel class of CaV2.2-targeting compounds that may serve as probes to interrogate CaVα-CaVβ function and ultimately be developed as a nonopioid therapeutic for chronic pain.
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11
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Bunda A, LaCarubba B, Bertolino M, Akiki M, Bath K, Lopez-Soto J, Lipscombe D, Andrade A. Cacna1b alternative splicing impacts excitatory neurotransmission and is linked to behavioral responses to aversive stimuli. Mol Brain 2019; 12:81. [PMID: 31630675 PMCID: PMC6802325 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-019-0500-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Presynaptic CaV2.2 channels control calcium entry that triggers neurotransmitter release at both central and peripheral synapses. The Cacna1b gene encodes the α1-pore forming subunit of CaV2.2 channels. Distinct subsets of splice variants of CaV2.2 derived from cell-specific alternative splicing of the Cacna1b pre-mRNA are expressed in specific subpopulations of neurons. Four cell-specific sites of alternative splicing in Cacna1b that alter CaV2.2 channel function have been described in detail: three cassette exons (e18a, e24a, and e31a) and a pair of mutually exclusive exons (e37a/e37b). Cacna1b mRNAs containing e37a are highly enriched in a subpopulation of nociceptors where they influence nociception and morphine analgesia. E37a-Cacna1b mRNAs are also expressed in brain, but their cell-specific expression in this part of the nervous system, their functional consequences in central synapses and their role on complex behavior have not been studied. In this report, we show that e37a-Cacna1b mRNAs are expressed in excitatory projection neurons where CaV2.2 channels are known to influence transmitter release at excitatory inputs from entorhinal cortex (EC) to dentate gyrus (DG). By comparing behaviors of WT mice to those that only express e37b-CaV2.2 channels, we found evidence that e37a-CaV2.2 enhances behavioral responses to aversive stimuli. Our results suggest that alternative splicing of Cacna1b e37a influences excitatory transmitter release and couples to complex behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Bunda
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Road, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Brianna LaCarubba
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Road, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Melanie Bertolino
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Road, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Marie Akiki
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Road, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Kevin Bath
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, 190 Thayer Street, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - Javier Lopez-Soto
- Robert J and Nancy D Carney Institute for Brain Science & Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - Diane Lipscombe
- Robert J and Nancy D Carney Institute for Brain Science & Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02912 USA
| | - Arturo Andrade
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire, 46 College Road, Durham, NH 03824 USA
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12
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Mishima K, Nakasatomi M, Takahashi S, Ikeuchi H, Sakairi T, Kaneko Y, Hiromura K, Nojima Y, Maeshima A. Attenuation of renal fibrosis after unilateral ureteral obstruction in mice lacking the N-type calcium channel. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223496. [PMID: 31596895 PMCID: PMC6785082 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The N-type Ca2+ channel (Cav2.2) is distributed in sympathetic nerves that innervate the tubules, the vessels, and the juxtaglomerular granular cells of the kidney. However, the role of N-type Ca2+ channels in renal disease remains unknown. To address this issue, Cav2.2 knockout mice were utilized. Immunoreactive Cav2.2 was undetectable in normal kidneys of C57BL/6N mice, but it became positive in the interstitial S100-positive nerve fibers after unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). There were no significant differences in mean blood pressure, heart rate, and renal function between wild-type littermates and Cav2.2-knockout mice at baseline, as well as after UUO. Cav2.2 deficiency significantly reduced the EVG-positive fibrotic area, alpha-SMA expression, the production of type I collagen, and the hypoxic area in the obstructed kidneys. The expression of tyrosine hydroxylase, a marker for sympathetic neurons, was significantly increased in the obstructed kidneys of wild-type mice, but not in Cav2.2-knockout mice. These data suggest that increased Cav2.2 is implicated in renal nerve activation leading to the progression of renal fibrosis. Blockade of Cav2.2 might be a novel therapeutic approach for preventing renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiichiro Mishima
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Masao Nakasatomi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Takahashi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Ikeuchi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Toru Sakairi
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoriaki Kaneko
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Keiju Hiromura
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Nojima
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Akito Maeshima
- Department of Nephrology and Rheumatology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
- * E-mail:
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13
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Pitake S, Middleton LJ, Abdus-Saboor I, Mishra SK. Inflammation Induced Sensory Nerve Growth and Pain Hypersensitivity Requires the N-Type Calcium Channel Cav2.2. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1009. [PMID: 31607850 PMCID: PMC6761232 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) are important mediators of pain hypersensitivity during inflammatory states, but their role in sensory nerve growth remains underexplored. Here, we assess the role of the N-type calcium channel Cav2.2 in the complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) model of inflammatory pain. We demonstrate with in situ hybridization and immunoblotting, an increase in Cav2.2 expression after hind paw CFA injection in sensory neurons that respond to thermal stimuli, but not in two different mechanosensitive neuronal populations. Further, Cav2.2 upregulation post-CFA correlates with thermal but not mechanical hyperalgesia in behaving mice, and this hypersensitivity is blocked with a specific Cav2.2 inhibitor. Voltage clamp recordings reveal a significant increase in Cav2.2 currents post-CFA, while current clamp analyses demonstrate a significant increase in action potential frequency. Moreover, CFA-induced sensory nerve growth, which involves the extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK1/2) signaling pathway and likely contributes to inflammation-induced hyperalgesia, was blocked with the Cav2.2 inhibitor. Together, this work uncovers a role for Cav2.2 during inflammation, demonstrating that VGCC activity can promote thermal hyperalgesia through both changes in firing rates of sensory neurons as well as promotion of new neurite outgrowth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumitra Pitake
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.,Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Leah J Middleton
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ishmail Abdus-Saboor
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Santosh K Mishra
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.,Comparative Medicine Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.,The W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.,Program in Genetics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
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14
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Andrade A, Brennecke A, Mallat S, Brown J, Gomez-Rivadeneira J, Czepiel N, Londrigan L. Genetic Associations between Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels and Psychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3537. [PMID: 31331039 PMCID: PMC6679227 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20143537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders are mental, behavioral or emotional disorders. These conditions are prevalent, one in four adults suffer from any type of psychiatric disorders world-wide. It has always been observed that psychiatric disorders have a genetic component, however, new methods to sequence full genomes of large cohorts have identified with high precision genetic risk loci for these conditions. Psychiatric disorders include, but are not limited to, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder. Several risk loci for psychiatric disorders fall within genes that encode for voltage-gated calcium channels (CaVs). Calcium entering through CaVs is crucial for multiple neuronal processes. In this review, we will summarize recent findings that link CaVs and their auxiliary subunits to psychiatric disorders. First, we will provide a general overview of CaVs structure, classification, function, expression and pharmacology. Next, we will summarize tools to study risk loci associated with psychiatric disorders. We will examine functional studies of risk variations in CaV genes when available. Finally, we will review pharmacological evidence of the use of CaV modulators to treat psychiatric disorders. Our review will be of interest for those studying pathophysiological aspects of CaVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Andrade
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
| | - Ashton Brennecke
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Shayna Mallat
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Julian Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | | | - Natalie Czepiel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Laura Londrigan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
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15
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Shan Z, Cai S, Yu J, Zhang Z, Vallecillo TGM, Serafini MJ, Thomas AM, Pham NYN, Bellampalli SS, Moutal A, Zhou Y, Xu GB, Xu YM, Luo S, Patek M, Streicher JM, Gunatilaka AAL, Khanna R. Reversal of Peripheral Neuropathic Pain by the Small-Molecule Natural Product Physalin F via Block of CaV2.3 (R-Type) and CaV2.2 (N-Type) Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:2939-2955. [PMID: 30946560 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
No universally efficacious therapy exists for chronic pain, a disease affecting one-fifth of the global population. An overreliance on the prescription of opioids for chronic pain despite their poor ability to improve function has led to a national opioid crisis. In 2018, the NIH launched a Helping to End Addiction Long-term plan to spur discovery and validation of novel targets and mechanisms to develop alternative nonaddictive treatment options. Phytochemicals with medicinal properties have long been used for various treatments worldwide. The natural product physalin F, isolated from the Physalis acutifolia (family: Solanaceae) herb, demonstrated antinociceptive effects in models of inflammatory pain, consistent with earlier reports of its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. However, the target of action of physalin F remained unknown. Here, using whole-cell and slice electrophysiology, competition binding assays, and experimental models of neuropathic pain, we uncovered a molecular target for physalin F's antinociceptive actions. We found that physalin F (i) blocks CaV2.3 (R-type) and CaV2.2 (N-type) voltage-gated calcium channels in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, (ii) does not affect CaV3 (T-type) voltage-gated calcium channels or voltage-gated sodium or potassium channels, (iii) does not bind G-protein coupled opioid receptors, (iv) inhibits the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in spinal cord slices, and (v) reverses tactile hypersensitivity in models of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy and spinal nerve ligation. Identifying CaV2.2 as a molecular target of physalin F may spur its use as a tool for mechanistic studies and position it as a structural template for future synthetic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiming Shan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital & Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, P.R. China
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, P.R. China
| | | | - Jie Yu
- College of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310058, P.R. China
| | - Zhongjun Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital & Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, P.R. China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yuan Zhou
- The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130021, P. R. China
- BrightRock Path Consulting, LLC, Tucson 85721, Arizona, United States
| | | | | | | | - Marcel Patek
- BrightRock Path Consulting, LLC, Tucson 85721, Arizona, United States
| | | | | | - Rajesh Khanna
- The Center for Innovation in Brain Sciences, The University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona 85724, United States
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16
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Bonati MT, Castronovo C, Sironi A, Zimbalatti D, Bestetti I, Crippa M, Novelli A, Loddo S, Dentici ML, Taylor J, Devillard F, Larizza L, Finelli P. 9q34.3 microduplications lead to neurodevelopmental disorders through EHMT1 overexpression. Neurogenetics 2019; 20:145-154. [PMID: 31209758 DOI: 10.1007/s10048-019-00581-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Both copy number losses and gains occur within subtelomeric 9q34 region without common breakpoints. The microdeletions cause Kleefstra syndrome (KS), whose responsible gene is EHMT1. A 9q34 duplication syndrome (9q34 DS) had been reported in literature, but it has never been characterized by a detailed molecular analysis of the gene content and endpoints. To the best of our knowledge, we report on the first patient carrying the smallest 9q34.3 duplication containing EHMT1 as the only relevant gene. We compared him with 21 reported patients described here as carrying 9q34.3 duplications encompassing the entire gene and extending within ~ 3 Mb. By surveying the available clinical and molecular cytogenetic data, we were able to discover that similar neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) were shared by patient carriers of even very differently sized duplications. Moreover, some facial features of the 9q34 DS were more represented than those of KS. However, an accurate in silico analysis of the genes mapped in all the duplications allowed us to support EHMT1 as being sufficient to cause a NDD phenotype. Wider patient cohorts are needed to ascertain whether the rearrangements have full causative role or simply confer the susceptibility to NDDs and possibly to identify the cognitive and behavioral profile associated with the increased dosage of EHMT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Bonati
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Clinic of Medical Genetics, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy.
| | - Chiara Castronovo
- Research Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20145, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sironi
- Research Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20145, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Zimbalatti
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Clinic of Medical Genetics, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bestetti
- Research Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20145, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
| | - Milena Crippa
- Research Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20145, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Novelli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Loddo
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Lisa Dentici
- Medical Genetics Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Juliet Taylor
- Genetic Health Service New Zealand - Northern Hub, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Françoise Devillard
- Département de Génétique et Procréation Hôpital Couple-Enfant, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38043, Grenoble, France
| | - Lidia Larizza
- Research Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20145, Milan, Italy
| | - Palma Finelli
- Research Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, 20145, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Segrate, 20090, Milan, Italy
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17
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Lee K, Lee BM, Park CK, Kim YH, Chung G. Ion Channels Involved in Tooth Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092266. [PMID: 31071917 PMCID: PMC6539952 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The tooth has an unusual sensory system that converts external stimuli predominantly into pain, yet its sensory afferents in teeth demonstrate cytochemical properties of non-nociceptive neurons. This review summarizes the recent knowledge underlying this paradoxical nociception, with a focus on the ion channels involved in tooth pain. The expression of temperature-sensitive ion channels has been extensively investigated because thermal stimulation often evokes tooth pain. However, temperature-sensitive ion channels cannot explain the sudden intense tooth pain evoked by innocuous temperatures or light air puffs, leading to the hydrodynamic theory emphasizing the microfluidic movement within the dentinal tubules for detection by mechanosensitive ion channels. Several mechanosensitive ion channels expressed in dental sensory systems have been suggested as key players in the hydrodynamic theory, and TRPM7, which is abundant in the odontoblasts, and recently discovered PIEZO receptors are promising candidates. Several ligand-gated ion channels and voltage-gated ion channels expressed in dental primary afferent neurons have been discussed in relation to their potential contribution to tooth pain. In addition, in recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential sensory role of odontoblasts; thus, the expression of ion channels in odontoblasts and their potential relation to tooth pain is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kihwan Lee
- Gachon Pain Center and Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 406-799, Korea.
| | - Byeong-Min Lee
- Department of Oral Physiology and Program in Neurobiology, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
| | - Chul-Kyu Park
- Gachon Pain Center and Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 406-799, Korea.
| | - Yong Ho Kim
- Gachon Pain Center and Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon 406-799, Korea.
| | - Gehoon Chung
- Department of Oral Physiology and Program in Neurobiology, School of Dentistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
- Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea.
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18
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Mendis GDC, Berecki G, Morrisroe E, Pachernegg S, Li M, Varney M, Osborne PB, Reid CA, Halgamuge S, Petrou S. Discovering the pharmacodynamics of conolidine and cannabidiol using a cultured neuronal network based workflow. Sci Rep 2019; 9:121. [PMID: 30644434 PMCID: PMC6333801 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37138-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Determining the mechanism of action (MOA) of novel or naturally occurring compounds mostly relies on assays tailored for individual target proteins. Here we explore an alternative approach based on pattern matching response profiles obtained using cultured neuronal networks. Conolidine and cannabidiol are plant-derivatives with known antinociceptive activity but unknown MOA. Application of conolidine/cannabidiol to cultured neuronal networks altered network firing in a highly reproducible manner and created similar impact on network properties suggesting engagement with a common biological target. We used principal component analysis (PCA) and multi-dimensional scaling (MDS) to compare network activity profiles of conolidine/cannabidiol to a series of well-studied compounds with known MOA. Network activity profiles evoked by conolidine and cannabidiol closely matched that of ω-conotoxin CVIE, a potent and selective Cav2.2 calcium channel blocker with proposed antinociceptive action suggesting that they too would block this channel. To verify this, Cav2.2 channels were heterologously expressed, recorded with whole-cell patch clamp and conolidine/cannabidiol was applied. Remarkably, conolidine and cannabidiol both inhibited Cav2.2, providing a glimpse into the MOA that could underlie their antinociceptive action. These data highlight the utility of cultured neuronal network-based workflows to efficiently identify MOA of drugs in a highly scalable assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- G D C Mendis
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - G Berecki
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - E Morrisroe
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - S Pachernegg
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - M Li
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - M Varney
- Neurolixis, Inc, Dana Point, CA, 92629, USA
| | - P B Osborne
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - C A Reid
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - S Halgamuge
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.,Research School of Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
| | - S Petrou
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia. .,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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19
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Zhou WZ, Zhao TY, Wang ZY, Lu GY, Zhang SZ, Zhang C, Wu N, Li J. Synergistic antinociception between ZC88, an N-type voltage-dependent calcium channel blocker, and ibuprofen in mouse models of visceral and somatic inflammatory pain. Eur J Pain 2018; 23:46-56. [PMID: 29978517 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A combination of analgesic agents with different mechanisms can induce additive or synergistic analgesia. The N-type voltage-dependent calcium channel (N-VDCC) is a novel therapeutic target for pain control. In addition to providing effective pain relief when used alone, N-VDCC blockers produce synergistic analgesia when used in combination with opiates. However, the interaction between N-VDCC blockers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) remains unclear. METHODS Using isobolographic analysis and composite additive curve analysis, the antinociceptive interaction between ZC88, a selective N-VDCC blocker and ibuprofen, a classical NSAID, was investigated in two mouse models of visceral and somatic inflammatory pain. RESULTS In the acetic acid writhing test, both ZC88 (10.5-42 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) and ibuprofen (50-200 mg/kg, orally) produced dose-dependent antinociception, with ED50 values of 27.2 and 100.5 mg/kg, respectively. ZC88 in combination with ibuprofen (ZC88 + ibuprofen) also induced significant antinociception, and isobolographic analysis revealed a synergistic interaction at 50% effect level. The experimental ED50 (ED50 mix ) of this combination (34.5 mg/kg) was significantly lower than the theoretical ED50 (ED50 add ; 63.8 mg/kg). Additionally, composite additive curve analysis displayed synergistic interaction at other effect levels. In the formalin test, ZC88 or ibuprofen alone significantly reduced late-phase rather than early-phase pain, with ED50 values of 31.3 and 123.9 mg/kg, respectively. Similarly, both isobolographic analysis and composite additive curve analysis revealed synergistic antinociception of ZC88 + ibuprofen (40.6 mg/kg of ED50 mix vs. 77.6 mg/kg of ED50 add ). CONCLUSION ZC88 in combination with ibuprofen produces synergistic antinociception in mouse models of somatic and visceral inflammatory pain. SIGNIFICANCE Because ZC88 + ibuprofen achieves the same antinociceptive effect at lower doses, the use of this combination could result in fewer dose-related untoward effects. The potentiation of ZC88 on ibuprofen-induced antinociception indicates that N-VDCC blocker has potential benefit to treat severe inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- W-Z Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - T-Y Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - Z-Y Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - G-Y Lu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - S-Z Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - C Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - N Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - J Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
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20
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Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a genetic disorder linked to inactivating mutations or a homozygous deletion of the Nf1 gene, is characterized by tumorigenesis, cognitive dysfunction, seizures, migraine, and pain. Omic studies on human NF1 tissues identified an increase in the expression of collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2), a cytosolic protein reported to regulate the trafficking and activity of presynaptic N-type voltage-gated calcium (Cav2.2) channels. Because neurofibromin, the protein product of the Nf1 gene, binds to and inhibits CRMP2, the neurofibromin-CRMP2 signaling cascade will likely affect Ca channel activity and regulate nociceptive neurotransmission and in vivo responses to noxious stimulation. Here, we investigated the function of neurofibromin-CRMP2 interaction on Cav2.2. Mapping of >275 peptides between neurofibromin and CRMP2 identified a 15-amino acid CRMP2-derived peptide that, when fused to the tat transduction domain of HIV-1, inhibited Ca influx in dorsal root ganglion neurons. This peptide mimics the negative regulation of CRMP2 activity by neurofibromin. Neurons treated with tat-CRMP2/neurofibromin regulating peptide 1 (t-CNRP1) exhibited a decreased Cav2.2 membrane localization, and uncoupling of neurofibromin-CRMP2 and CRMP2-Cav2.2 interactions. Proteomic analysis of a nanodisc-solubilized membrane protein library identified syntaxin 1A as a novel CRMP2-binding protein whose interaction with CRMP2 was strengthened in neurofibromin-depleted cells and reduced by t-CNRP1. Stimulus-evoked release of calcitonin gene-related peptide from lumbar spinal cord slices was inhibited by t-CNRP1. Intrathecal administration of t-CNRP1 was antinociceptive in experimental models of inflammatory, postsurgical, and neuropathic pain. Our results demonstrate the utility of t-CNRP1 to inhibit CRMP2 protein-protein interactions for the potential treatment of pain.
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21
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Abstract
Neuropathic pain represents a significant and mounting burden on patients and society at large. Management of neuropathic pain, however, is both intricate and challenging, exacerbated by the limited quantity and quality of clinically available treatments. On this stage, dysfunctional voltage-gated ion channels, especially the presynaptic N-type voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) (Cav2.2) and the tetrodotoxin-sensitive voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) (Nav1.7), underlie the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain and serve as high profile therapeutic targets. Indirect regulation of these channels holds promise for the treatment of neuropathic pain. In this review, we focus on collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2), a protein with emergent roles in voltage-gated ion channel trafficking and discuss the therapeutic potential of targetting this protein.
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22
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Moutal A, Li W, Wang Y, Ju W, Luo S, Cai S, François-Moutal L, Perez-Miller S, Hu J, Dustrude ET, Vanderah TW, Gokhale V, Khanna M, Khanna R. Homology-guided mutational analysis reveals the functional requirements for antinociceptive specificity of collapsin response mediator protein 2-derived peptides. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 175:2244-2260. [PMID: 28161890 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE N-type voltage-gated calcium (Cav 2.2) channels are critical determinants of increased neuronal excitability and neurotransmission accompanying persistent neuropathic pain. Although Cav 2.2 channel antagonists are recommended as first-line treatment for neuropathic pain, calcium-current blocking gabapentinoids inadequately alleviate chronic pain symptoms and often exhibit numerous side effects. Collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) targets Cav 2.2 channels to the sensory neuron membrane and allosterically modulates their function. A 15-amino-acid peptide (CBD3), derived from CRMP2, disrupts the functional protein-protein interaction between CRMP2 and Cav 2.2 channels to inhibit calcium influx, transmitter release and acute, inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Here, we have mapped the minimal domain of CBD3 necessary for its antinociceptive potential. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Truncated as well as homology-guided mutant versions of CBD3 were generated and assessed using depolarization-evoked calcium influx in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons, binding between CRMP2 and Cav 2.2 channels, whole-cell voltage clamp electrophysiology and behavioural effects in two models of experimental pain: post-surgical pain and HIV-induced sensory neuropathy induced by the viral glycoprotein 120. KEY RESULTS The first six amino acids within CBD3 accounted for all in vitro activity and antinociception. Spinal administration of a prototypical peptide (TAT-CBD3-L5M) reversed pain behaviours. Homology-guided mutational analyses of these six amino acids identified at least two residues, Ala1 and Arg4, as being critical for antinociception in two pain models. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results identify an antinociceptive scaffold core in CBD3 that can be used for development of low MW mimetics of CBD3. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Advances in Targeting Ion Channels to Treat Chronic Pain. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.12/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Wennan Li
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Weina Ju
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China.,Department of Pharmacology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Shizhen Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Song Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | | | - Jackie Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Erik T Dustrude
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Todd W Vanderah
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Vijay Gokhale
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - May Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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(S)-lacosamide inhibition of CRMP2 phosphorylation reduces postoperative and neuropathic pain behaviors through distinct classes of sensory neurons identified by constellation pharmacology. Pain 2017; 157:1448-1463. [PMID: 26967696 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Chronic pain affects the life of millions of people. Current treatments have deleterious side effects. We have advanced a strategy for targeting protein interactions which regulate the N-type voltage-gated calcium (CaV2.2) channel as an alternative to direct channel block. Peptides uncoupling CaV2.2 interactions with the axonal collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) were antinociceptive without effects on memory, depression, and reward/addiction. A search for small molecules that could recapitulate uncoupling of the CaV2.2-CRMP2 interaction identified (S)-lacosamide [(S)-LCM], the inactive enantiomer of the Food and Drug Administration-approved antiepileptic drug (R)-lacosamide [(R)-LCM, Vimpat]. We show that (S)-LCM, but not (R)-LCM, inhibits CRMP2 phosphorylation by cyclin dependent kinase 5, a step necessary for driving CaV2.2 activity, in sensory neurons. (S)-lacosamide inhibited depolarization-induced Ca influx with a low micromolar IC50. Voltage-clamp electrophysiology experiments demonstrated a commensurate reduction in Ca currents in sensory neurons after an acute application of (S)-LCM. Using constellation pharmacology, a recently described high content phenotypic screening platform for functional fingerprinting of neurons that uses subtype-selective pharmacological agents to elucidate cell-specific combinations (constellations) of key signaling proteins that define specific cell types, we investigated if (S)-LCM preferentially acts on certain types of neurons. (S)-lacosamide decreased the dorsal root ganglion neurons responding to mustard oil, and increased the number of cells responding to menthol. Finally, (S)-LCM reversed thermal hypersensitivity and mechanical allodynia in a model of postoperative pain, and 2 models of neuropathic pain. Thus, using (S)-LCM to inhibit CRMP2 phosphorylation is a novel and efficient strategy to treat pain, which works by targeting specific sensory neuron populations.
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Botz B, Bölcskei K, Helyes Z. Challenges to develop novel anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 9. [PMID: 27576790 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases and persistent pain of different origin represent common medical, social, and economic burden, and their pharmacotherapy is still an unresolved issue. Therefore, there is a great and urgent need to develop anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents with novel mechanisms of action, but it is a very challenging task. The main problem is the relatively large translational gap between the preclinical experimental data and the clinical results due to characteristics of the models, difficulties with the investigational techniques particularly for pain, as well as species differences in the mechanisms. We summarize here the current state-of-the-art medication and related ongoing strategies, and the novel targets with lead molecules under clinical development. The first members of the gold-standard categories, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, and opioids, were introduced decades ago, and since then very few drugs with novel mechanisms of action have been successfully taken to the clinics despite considerable development efforts. Several biologics targeting different key molecules have provided breakthrough in some autoimmune/inflammatory diseases, but they are expensive, only parenterally available, their long-term side effects often limit their administration, and they do not effectively reduce pain. Some kinase inhibitors and phosphodiesterase-4 blockers have recently been introduced as new directions. There are in fact some promising novel approaches at different clinical stages of drug development focusing on transient receptor potential vanilloid 1/ankyrin 1 channel antagonism, inhibition of voltage-gated sodium/calcium channels, several enzymes (kinases, semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidases, and matrix metalloproteinases), cytokines/chemokines, transcription factors, nerve growth factor, and modulation of several G protein-coupled receptors (cannabinoids, purinoceptors, and neuropeptides). WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2017, 9:e1427. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1427 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bálint Botz
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kata Bölcskei
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Helyes
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary.,MTA-PTE NAP B Chronic Pain Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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25
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Offord J, Isom LL. Drugging the undruggable: gabapentin, pregabalin and the calcium channel α2δ subunit. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 51:246-56. [DOI: 10.3109/10409238.2016.1173010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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26
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Quach TT, Lerch JK, Honnorat J, Khanna R, Duchemin AM. Neuronal networks in mental diseases and neuropathic pain: Beyond brain derived neurotrophic factor and collapsin response mediator proteins. World J Psychiatry 2016; 6:18-30. [PMID: 27014595 PMCID: PMC4804265 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v6.i1.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The brain is a complex network system that has the capacity to support emotion, thought, action, learning and memory, and is characterized by constant activity, constant structural remodeling, and constant attempt to compensate for this remodeling. The basic insight that emerges from complex network organization is that substantively different networks can share common key organizational principles. Moreover, the interdependence of network organization and behavior has been successfully demonstrated for several specific tasks. From this viewpoint, increasing experimental/clinical observations suggest that mental disorders are neural network disorders. On one hand, single psychiatric disorders arise from multiple, multifactorial molecular and cellular structural/functional alterations spreading throughout local/global circuits leading to multifaceted and heterogeneous clinical symptoms. On the other hand, various mental diseases may share functional deficits across the same neural circuit as reflected in the overlap of symptoms throughout clinical diagnoses. An integrated framework including experimental measures and clinical observations will be necessary to formulate a coherent and comprehensive understanding of how neural connectivity mediates and constraints the phenotypic expression of psychiatric disorders.
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27
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Zamponi GW, Striessnig J, Koschak A, Dolphin AC. The Physiology, Pathology, and Pharmacology of Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels and Their Future Therapeutic Potential. Pharmacol Rev 2015; 67:821-70. [PMID: 26362469 PMCID: PMC4630564 DOI: 10.1124/pr.114.009654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 684] [Impact Index Per Article: 76.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated calcium channels are required for many key functions in the body. In this review, the different subtypes of voltage-gated calcium channels are described and their physiologic roles and pharmacology are outlined. We describe the current uses of drugs interacting with the different calcium channel subtypes and subunits, as well as specific areas in which there is strong potential for future drug development. Current therapeutic agents include drugs targeting L-type Ca(V)1.2 calcium channels, particularly 1,4-dihydropyridines, which are widely used in the treatment of hypertension. T-type (Ca(V)3) channels are a target of ethosuximide, widely used in absence epilepsy. The auxiliary subunit α2δ-1 is the therapeutic target of the gabapentinoid drugs, which are of value in certain epilepsies and chronic neuropathic pain. The limited use of intrathecal ziconotide, a peptide blocker of N-type (Ca(V)2.2) calcium channels, as a treatment of intractable pain, gives an indication that these channels represent excellent drug targets for various pain conditions. We describe how selectivity for different subtypes of calcium channels (e.g., Ca(V)1.2 and Ca(V)1.3 L-type channels) may be achieved in the future by exploiting differences between channel isoforms in terms of sequence and biophysical properties, variation in splicing in different target tissues, and differences in the properties of the target tissues themselves in terms of membrane potential or firing frequency. Thus, use-dependent blockers of the different isoforms could selectively block calcium channels in particular pathologies, such as nociceptive neurons in pain states or in epileptic brain circuits. Of important future potential are selective Ca(V)1.3 blockers for neuropsychiatric diseases, neuroprotection in Parkinson's disease, and resistant hypertension. In addition, selective or nonselective T-type channel blockers are considered potential therapeutic targets in epilepsy, pain, obesity, sleep, and anxiety. Use-dependent N-type calcium channel blockers are likely to be of therapeutic use in chronic pain conditions. Thus, more selective calcium channel blockers hold promise for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald W Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (G.W.Z.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria (J.S., A.K.); and Department of Neuroscience, Physiology, and Pharmacology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom (A.C.D.)
| | - Joerg Striessnig
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (G.W.Z.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria (J.S., A.K.); and Department of Neuroscience, Physiology, and Pharmacology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom (A.C.D.)
| | - Alexandra Koschak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (G.W.Z.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria (J.S., A.K.); and Department of Neuroscience, Physiology, and Pharmacology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom (A.C.D.)
| | - Annette C Dolphin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (G.W.Z.); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy, Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria (J.S., A.K.); and Department of Neuroscience, Physiology, and Pharmacology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom (A.C.D.)
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28
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CRMPs: critical molecules for neurite morphogenesis and neuropsychiatric diseases. Mol Psychiatry 2015; 20:1037-45. [PMID: 26077693 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2015.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal polarity and spatial rearrangement of neuronal processes are central to the development of all mature nervous systems. Recent studies have highlighted the dynamic expression of Collapsin-Response-Mediator Proteins (CRMPs) in neuronal dendritic/axonal compartments, described their interaction with cytoskeleton proteins, identified their ability to activate L- and N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) and delineated their crucial role as signaling molecules essential for neuron differentiation and neural network development and maintenance. In addition, evidence obtained from genome-wide/genetic linkage/proteomic/translational approaches revealed that CRMP expression is altered in human pathologies including mental (schizophrenia and mood disorders) and neurological (Alzheimer's, prion encephalopathy, epilepsy and others) disorders. Changes in CRMPs levels have been observed after psychotropic treatments, and disrupting CRMP2 binding to calcium channels blocked neuropathic pain. These observations, altogether with those obtained from genetically modified mice targeting individual CRMPs and RNA interference approaches, pave the way for considering CRMPs as potential early disease markers and modulation of their activity as therapeutic strategy for disorders associated with neurite abnormalities.
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29
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Analgesic effect of a broad-spectrum dihydropyridine inhibitor of voltage-gated calcium channels. Pflugers Arch 2015; 467:2485-93. [PMID: 26286466 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-015-1725-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-activated calcium channels are important facilitators of nociceptive transmission in the primary afferent pathway. Consequently, molecules that block these channels are of potential use as pain therapeutics. Our group has recently reported on the identification of a novel class of dihydropyridines (DHPs) that included compounds with preferential selectivity for T-type over L-type channels. Among those compounds, M4 was found to be an equipotent inhibitor of both Cav1.2 L- and Cav3.2 T-type calcium channels. Here, we have further characterized the effects of this compound on other types of calcium channels and examined its analgesic effect when delivered either spinally (i.t.) or systemically (i.p.) to mice. Both delivery routes resulted in antinociception in a model of acute pain. Furthermore, M4 was able to reverse mechanical hyperalgesia produced by nerve injury when delivered intrathecally. M4 retained partial activity when delivered to Cav3.2 null mice, indicating that this compound acts on multiple targets. Additional whole-cell patch clamp experiments in transfected tsA-201 cells revealed that M4 also effectively blocks Cav3.3 (T-type) and Cav2.2 (N-type) currents. Altogether, our data indicate that broad-spectrum inhibition of multiple calcium channel subtypes can lead to potent analgesia in rodents.
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30
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Rahman W, Patel R, Dickenson AH. Electrophysiological evidence for voltage-gated calcium channel 2 (Cav2) modulation of mechano- and thermosensitive spinal neuronal responses in a rat model of osteoarthritis. Neuroscience 2015; 305:76-85. [PMID: 26247695 PMCID: PMC4564012 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.07.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
MIA-dependent antinociceptive effect of TROX-1 on neuronal activity. Alterations in Cav2.2 channel function contribute to osteoarthritic (OA) pain. Blocking Cav2.2 channels has therapeutic potential for treating OA pain.
Osteoarthritis (OA) remains one of the greatest healthcare burdens in western society, with chronic debilitating pain-dominating clinical presentation yet therapeutic strategies are inadequate in many patients. Development of better analgesics is contingent on improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms mediating OA pain. Voltage-gated calcium channels 2.2 (Cav2.2) play a critical role in spinal nociceptive transmission, therefore blocking Cav2.2 activity represents an attractive opportunity for OA pain treatment, but the only available licensed Cav2.2 antagonist ziconitide (PrilatTM) is of limited use. TROX-1 is an orally available, use dependent and state-selective Cav2 antagonist, exerting its analgesic effect primarily via Cav2.2 blockade, with an improved therapeutic window compared with ziconitide. Using a rat model of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA), 2 mg, induced OA we used in vivo electrophysiology to assess the effects of spinal or systemic administration of TROX-1 on the evoked activity of wide dynamic range spinal dorsal horn neurons in response to electrical, natural mechanical (dynamic brush and von Frey 2, 8, 26 and 6 g) and thermal (40, 45 and 45 °C) stimuli applied to the peripheral receptive field. MIA injection into the knee joint resulted in mechanical hypersensitivity of the ipsilateral hind paw and weight-bearing asymmetry. Spinal administration of TROX-1 (0.1 and 1 μg/50 μl) produced a significant dose-related inhibition of dynamic brush, mechanical (von Frey filament (vF) 8, 26 and 60 g) and noxious thermal-(45 and 48 °C) evoked neuronal responses in MIA rats only. Systemic administration of TROX-1 produced a significant inhibition of the mechanical-(vF 8, 26 and 60 g) evoked neuronal responses in MIA rats. TROX-1 did not produce any significant effect on any neuronal measure in Sham controls. Our in vivo electrophysiological results demonstrate a pathological state-dependent effect of TROX-1, which suggests an increased functional role of Cav2, likely Cav2.2, channels in mediating OA pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Rahman
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - R Patel
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - A H Dickenson
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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31
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Ogiyama T, Yonezawa K, Inoue M, Watanabe T, Sugano Y, Gotoh T, Kiso T, Koakutsu A, Kakimoto S, Shishikura JI. Discovery of a 1-isopropyltetrahydroisoquinoline derivative as an orally active N-type calcium channel blocker for neuropathic pain. Bioorg Med Chem 2015; 23:4624-4637. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2015.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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32
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François-Moutal L, Wang Y, Moutal A, Cottier KE, Melemedjian OK, Yang X, Wang Y, Ju W, Largent-Milnes TM, Khanna M, Vanderah TW, Khanna R. A membrane-delimited N-myristoylated CRMP2 peptide aptamer inhibits CaV2.2 trafficking and reverses inflammatory and postoperative pain behaviors. Pain 2015; 156:1247-1264. [PMID: 25782368 PMCID: PMC5766324 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Targeting proteins within the N-type voltage-gated calcium channel (CaV2.2) complex has proven to be an effective strategy for developing novel pain therapeutics. We describe a novel peptide aptamer derived from the collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2), a CaV2.2-regulatory protein. Addition of a 14-carbon myristate group to the peptide (myr-tat-CBD3) tethered it to the membrane of primary sensory neurons near surface CaV2.2. Pull-down studies demonstrated that myr-tat-CBD3 peptide interfered with the CRMP2-CaV2.2 interaction. Quantitative confocal immunofluorescence revealed a pronounced reduction of CaV2.2 trafficking after myr-tat-CBD3 treatment and increased efficiency in disrupting CRMP2-CaV2.2 colocalization compared with peptide tat-CBD3. Consequently, myr-tat-CBD3 inhibited depolarization-induced calcium influx in sensory neurons. Voltage clamp electrophysiology experiments revealed a reduction of Ca, but not Na, currents in sensory neurons after myr-tat-CBD3 exposure. Current clamp electrophysiology experiments demonstrated a reduction in excitability of small-diameter dorsal root ganglion neurons after exposure to myr-tat-CBD3. Myr-tat-CBD3 was effective in significantly attenuating carrageenan-induced thermal hypersensitivity and reversing thermal hypersensitivity induced by a surgical incision of the plantar surface of the rat hind paw, a model of postoperative pain. These effects are compared with those of tat-CBD3-the nonmyristoylated tat-conjugated CRMP2 peptide as well as scrambled versions of CBD3 and CBD3-lacking control peptides. Our results demonstrate that the myristoyl tag enhances intracellular delivery and local concentration of the CRMP2 peptide aptamer near membrane-delimited calcium channels resulting in pronounced interference with the calcium channel complex, superior suppression of calcium influx, and better antinociceptive potential.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Aptamers, Peptide/genetics
- Aptamers, Peptide/metabolism
- Aptamers, Peptide/therapeutic use
- Calcium Channels, N-Type/metabolism
- Cells, Cultured
- Female
- Ganglia, Spinal/drug effects
- Ganglia, Spinal/metabolism
- Inflammation/drug therapy
- Inflammation/genetics
- Inflammation/metabolism
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
- Male
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/genetics
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/metabolism
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/therapeutic use
- Pain, Postoperative/drug therapy
- Pain, Postoperative/genetics
- Pain, Postoperative/metabolism
- Protein Transport/drug effects
- Protein Transport/physiology
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Aubin Moutal
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Karissa E. Cottier
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Xiaofang Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Yuying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Weina Ju
- Department of Pharmacology, Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | | | - May Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Todd W. Vanderah
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Interdisciplinary Program, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Althoff TF, Offermanns S. G-protein-mediated signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells — implications for vascular disease. J Mol Med (Berl) 2015; 93:973-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s00109-015-1305-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Revised: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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34
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Patel R, Rutten K, Valdor M, Schiene K, Wigge S, Schunk S, Damann N, Christoph T, Dickenson AH. Electrophysiological characterization of activation state-dependent Ca(v)2 channel antagonist TROX-1 in spinal nerve injured rats. Neuroscience 2015; 297:47-57. [PMID: 25839150 PMCID: PMC4436437 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
TROX-1 exhibits activation state-dependent inhibition of Cav2.2 in vitro. TROX-1 selectively attenuates neuronal responses to mechanical stimulation. Anti-nociceptive effect of TROX-1 dependent on pathophysiological state.
Prialt, a synthetic version of Cav2.2 antagonist ω-conotoxin MVIIA derived from Conus magus, is the first clinically approved voltage-gated calcium channel blocker for refractory chronic pain. However, due to the narrow therapeutic window and considerable side effects associated with systemic dosing, Prialt is only administered intrathecally. N-triazole oxindole (TROX-1) is a novel use-dependent and activation state-selective small-molecule inhibitor of Cav2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 calcium channels designed to overcome the limitations of Prialt. We have examined the neurophysiological and behavioral effects of blocking calcium channels with TROX-1. In vitro, TROX-1, in contrast to state-independent antagonist Prialt, preferentially inhibits Cav2.2 currents in rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons under depolarized conditions. In vivo electrophysiology was performed to record from deep dorsal horn lamina V/VI wide dynamic range neurons in non-sentient spinal nerve-ligated (SNL) and sham-operated rats. In SNL rats, spinal neurons exhibited reduced responses to innocuous and noxious punctate mechanical stimulation of the receptive field following subcutaneous administration of TROX-1, an effect that was absent in sham-operated animals. No effect was observed on neuronal responses evoked by dynamic brushing, heat or cold stimulation in SNL or sham rats. The wind-up response of spinal neurons following repeated electrical stimulation of the receptive field was also unaffected. Spinally applied TROX-1 dose dependently inhibited mechanically evoked neuronal responses in SNL but not sham-operated rats, consistent with behavioral observations. This study confirms the pathological state-dependent actions of TROX-1 through a likely spinal mechanism and reveals a modality selective change in calcium channel function following nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Patel
- University College London, Gower Street, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - K Rutten
- Grünenthal GmbH, Global Preclinical Research, 52078 Aachen, Germany
| | - M Valdor
- Grünenthal GmbH, Global Preclinical Research, 52078 Aachen, Germany
| | - K Schiene
- Grünenthal GmbH, Global Preclinical Research, 52078 Aachen, Germany
| | - S Wigge
- Grünenthal GmbH, Global Preclinical Research, 52078 Aachen, Germany
| | - S Schunk
- Grünenthal GmbH, Global Preclinical Research, 52078 Aachen, Germany
| | - N Damann
- Grünenthal GmbH, Global Preclinical Research, 52078 Aachen, Germany
| | - T Christoph
- Grünenthal GmbH, Global Preclinical Research, 52078 Aachen, Germany
| | - A H Dickenson
- University College London, Gower Street, Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Kuwahara K, Kimura T. The organ-protective effect of N-type Ca(2+) channel blockade. Pharmacol Ther 2015; 151:1-7. [PMID: 25659931 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2015.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The six subtypes of voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels (VDCCs) mediate a wide range of physiological responses. N-type VDCCs (NCCs) were originally identified as a high voltage-activated Ca(2+) channel selectively blocked by omega-conotoxin (ω-CTX)-GVIA. Predominantly localized in the nervous system, NCCs are key regulators of neurotransmitter release. Both pharmacological blockade with ω-CTX-GVIA and, more recently, mice lacking CNCNA1B, encoding the α1B subunit of NCC, have been used to assess the physiological and pathophysiological functions of NCCs, revealing in part their significant roles in sympathetic nerve activation and nociceptive transmission. The evidence now available indicates that NCCs are a potentially useful therapeutic target for the treatment of several pathological conditions. Efforts are therefore being made to develop effective NCC blockers, including both synthetic ω-CTX-GVIA derivatives and small-molecule inhibitors. Cilnidipine, for example, is a dihydropyridine L-type VDCC blocking agent that also possesses significant NCC blocking ability. As over-activation of the sympathetic nervous system appears to contribute to the pathological processes underlying cardiovascular, renal and metabolic diseases, NCC blockade could be a useful approach to treating these ailments. In this review article, we provide an overview of what is currently known about the physiological and pathophysiological activities of NCCs and the potentially beneficial effects of NCC blockade in several disease conditions, in particular cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichiro Kuwahara
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan.
| | - Takeshi Kimura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
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Ren AJ, Wang K, Zhang H, Liu A, Ma X, Liang Q, Cao D, Wood JN, He DZ, Ding YQ, Yuan WJ, Xie Z, Zhang WJ. ZBTB20 regulates nociception and pain sensation by modulating TRP channel expression in nociceptive sensory neurons. Nat Commun 2014; 5:4984. [PMID: 25369838 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms5984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, pain sensation is initiated by the detection of noxious stimuli through specialized transduction ion channels and receptors in nociceptive sensory neurons. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are the key sensory transducers that confer nociceptors distinct sensory modalities. However, the regulatory mechanisms about their expression are poorly defined. Here we show that the zinc-finger protein ZBTB20 regulates TRP channels expression in nociceptors. ZBTB20 is highly expressed in nociceptive sensory neurons of dorsal root ganglia. Disruption of ZBTB20 in nociceptors led to a marked decrease in the expression levels of TRPV1, TRPA1 and TRPM8 and the response of calcium flux and whole-cell currents evoked by their respective specific agonists. Phenotypically, the mice lacking ZBTB20 specifically in nociceptors showed a defect in nociception and pain sensation in response to thermal, mechanical and inflammatory stimulation. Our findings point to ZBTB20 as a critical regulator of nociception and pain sensation by modulating TRP channels expression in nociceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Jing Ren
- Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Anjun Liu
- 1] Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China [2] Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xianhua Ma
- Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Qing Liang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Dongmei Cao
- Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - John N Wood
- Biology Department, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - David Z He
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, Nebraska 68102, USA
| | - Yu-Qiang Ding
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Wen-Jun Yuan
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Key Lab of Ministry of Education in Fertility Preservation and Maintenance, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Zhifang Xie
- 1] Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China [2] Department of Cell Biology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Weiping J Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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Weiss J, Pyrski M, Weissgerber P, Zufall F. Altered synaptic transmission at olfactory and vomeronasal nerve terminals in mice lacking N-type calcium channel Cav2.2. Eur J Neurosci 2014; 40:3422-35. [PMID: 25195871 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Revised: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the role of voltage-activated calcium (Cav) channels for synaptic transmission at mouse olfactory and vomeronasal nerve terminals at the first synapse of the main and accessory olfactory pathways, respectively. We provided evidence for a central role of the N-type Cav channel subunit Cav2.2 in presynaptic transmitter release at these synapses. Striking Cav2.2 immunoreactivity was localised to the glomerular neuropil of the main olfactory bulb (MOB) and accessory olfactory bulb (AOB), and co-localised with presynaptic molecules such as bassoon. Voltage-clamp recordings of sensory nerve-evoked, excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in mitral/tufted (M/T) and superficial tufted cells of the MOB and mitral cells of the AOB, in combination with established subtype-specific Cav channel toxins, indicated a predominant role of N-type channels in transmitter release at these synapses, whereas L-type, P/Q-type, and R-type channels had either no or only relatively minor contributions. In Cacna1b mutant mice lacking the Cav2.2 (α1B) subunit of N-type channels, olfactory nerve-evoked M/T cell EPSCs were not reduced but became blocker-resistant, thus indicating a major reorganisation and compensation of Cav channel subunits as a result of the Cav2.2 deletion at this synapse. Cav2.2-deficient mice also revealed that Cav2.2 was critically required for paired-pulse depression of olfactory nerve-evoked EPSCs in M/T cells of the MOB, and they demonstrated an essential requirement for Cav2.2 in vomeronasal nerve-evoked EPSCs of AOB mitral cells. Thus, Cacna1b loss-of-function mutations are unlikely to cause general anosmia but Cacna1b emerges as a strong candidate in the search for mutations causing altered olfactory perception, such as changes in general olfactory sensitivity and altered social responses to chemostimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Weiss
- Department of Physiology, University of Saarland School of Medicine, Kirrbergerstrasse, Building 58, D-66421, Homburg, Germany
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Norcini M, Sideris A, Martin Hernandez LA, Zhang J, Blanck TJJ, Recio-Pinto E. An approach to identify microRNAs involved in neuropathic pain following a peripheral nerve injury. Front Neurosci 2014; 8:266. [PMID: 25221468 PMCID: PMC4148822 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2014.00266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury alters the expression of hundreds of proteins in dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Targeting some of these proteins has led to successful treatments for acute pain, but not for sustained post-operative neuropathic pain. The latter may require targeting multiple proteins. Since a single microRNA (miR) can affect the expression of multiple proteins, here, we describe an approach to identify chronic neuropathic pain-relevant miRs. We used two variants of the spared nerve injury (SNI): Sural-SNI and Tibial-SNI and found distinct pain phenotypes between the two. Both models induced strong mechanical allodynia, but only Sural-SNI rats maintained strong mechanical and cold allodynia, as previously reported. In contrast, we found that Tibial-SNI rats recovered from mechanical allodynia and never developed cold allodynia. Since both models involve nerve injury, we increased the probability of identifying differentially regulated miRs that correlated with the quality and magnitude of neuropathic pain and decreased the probability of detecting miRs that are solely involved in neuronal regeneration. We found seven such miRs in L3-L5 DRG. The expression of these miRs increased in Tibial-SNI. These miRs displayed a lower level of expression in Sural-SNI, with four having levels lower than those in sham animals. Bioinformatic analysis of how these miRs could affect the expression of some ion channels supports the view that, following a peripheral nerve injury, the increase of the seven miRs may contribute to the recovery from neuropathic pain while the decrease of four of them may contribute to the development of chronic neuropathic pain. The approach used resulted in the identification of a small number of potentially neuropathic pain relevant miRs. Additional studies are required to investigate whether manipulating the expression of the identified miRs in primary sensory neurons can prevent or ameliorate chronic neuropathic pain following peripheral nerve injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Norcini
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYU Langone Medical Center New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexandra Sideris
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYU Langone Medical Center New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYU Langone Medical Center New York, NY, USA
| | - Thomas J J Blanck
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYU Langone Medical Center New York, NY, USA ; Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, NYU Langone Medical Center New York, NY, USA
| | - Esperanza Recio-Pinto
- Department of Anesthesiology, NYU Langone Medical Center New York, NY, USA ; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Medical Center New York, NY, USA
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Marinelli S, Eleuteri C, Vacca V, Strimpakos G, Mattei E, Severini C, Pavone F, Luvisetto S. Effects of age-related loss of P/Q-type calcium channels in a mice model of peripheral nerve injury. Neurobiol Aging 2014; 36:352-64. [PMID: 25150573 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Revised: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
We analyzed the role of P/Q-type calcium channels in sciatic nerve regeneration after lesion induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) in heterozygous null mutant mice lacking the CaV2.1α1 subunit of these channels (Cacna1a+/-). Compared with wild type, Cacna1a+/- mice showed an initial reduction of the CCI-induced allodynia, indicating a reduced pain perception, but they also evidenced a lack of recovery over time, with atrophy of the injured hindpaw still present 3 months after CCI when wild-type mice fully recovered. In parallel, Cacna1a+/- mice exhibited an early onset of age-dependent loss of P/Q-type channels, which can be responsible for the lack of functional recovery. Moreover, Cacna1a+/- mice showed an early age-dependent reduction of muscular strength, as well as of Schwann cells proliferation and sciatic nerve remyelination. This study demonstrates the important role played by P/Q-type channels in recovery from nerve injury and has important implications for the knowledge of age-related processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Marinelli
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Eleuteri
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Vacca
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Georgios Strimpakos
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Mattei
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Severini
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Flaminia Pavone
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Siro Luvisetto
- CNR National Research Council of Italy, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Institute, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.
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Duan JH, Hodgdon KE, Hingtgen CM, Nicol GD. N-type calcium current, Cav2.2, is enhanced in small-diameter sensory neurons isolated from Nf1+/- mice. Neuroscience 2014; 270:192-202. [PMID: 24755485 PMCID: PMC4075288 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Major aspects of neuronal function are regulated by Ca(2+) including neurotransmitter release, excitability, developmental plasticity, and gene expression. We reported previously that sensory neurons isolated from a mouse model with a heterozygous mutation of the Nf1 gene (Nf1+/-) exhibited both greater excitability and evoked release of neuropeptides compared to wildtype mice. Furthermore, augmented voltage-dependent sodium currents but not potassium currents contribute to the enhanced excitability. To determine the mechanisms giving rise to the enhanced release of substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide in the Nf1+/- sensory neurons, the potential differences in the total voltage-dependent calcium current (ICa) as well as the contributions of individual Ca(2+) channel subtypes were assessed. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from small-diameter capsaicin-sensitive sensory neurons demonstrated that the average peak ICa densities were not different between the two genotypes. However, by using selective blockers of channel subtypes, the current density of N-type (Cav2.2) ICa was significantly larger in Nf1+/- neurons compared to wildtype neurons. In contrast, there were no significant differences in L-, P/Q- and R-type currents between the two genotypes. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction measurements made from the isolated but intact dorsal root ganglia indicated that N-type (Cav2.2) and P/Q-type (Cav2.1) Ca(2+) channels exhibited the highest mRNA expression levels although there were no significant differences in the levels of mRNA expression between the genotypes. These results suggest that the augmented N-type (Cav2.2) ICa observed in the Nf1+/- sensory neurons does not result from genomic differences but may reflect post-translational or some other non-genomic modifications. Thus, our results demonstrate that sensory neurons from Nf1+/- mice, exhibit increased N-type ICa and likely account for the increased release of substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide that occurs in Nf1+/- sensory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-H Duan
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - K E Hodgdon
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - C M Hingtgen
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - G D Nicol
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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41
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Simms BA, Zamponi GW. Neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels: structure, function, and dysfunction. Neuron 2014; 82:24-45. [PMID: 24698266 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2014.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 396] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-gated calcium channels are the primary mediators of depolarization-induced calcium entry into neurons. There is great diversity of calcium channel subtypes due to multiple genes that encode calcium channel α1 subunits, coassembly with a variety of ancillary calcium channel subunits, and alternative splicing. This allows these channels to fulfill highly specialized roles in specific neuronal subtypes and at particular subcellular loci. While calcium channels are of critical importance to brain function, their inappropriate expression or dysfunction gives rise to a variety of neurological disorders, including, pain, epilepsy, migraine, and ataxia. This Review discusses salient aspects of voltage-gated calcium channel function, physiology, and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett A Simms
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Gerald W Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
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Bourinet E, Altier C, Hildebrand ME, Trang T, Salter MW, Zamponi GW. Calcium-permeable ion channels in pain signaling. Physiol Rev 2014; 94:81-140. [PMID: 24382884 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00023.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The detection and processing of painful stimuli in afferent sensory neurons is critically dependent on a wide range of different types of voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels, including sodium, calcium, and TRP channels, to name a few. The functions of these channels include the detection of mechanical and chemical insults, the generation of action potentials and regulation of neuronal firing patterns, the initiation of neurotransmitter release at dorsal horn synapses, and the ensuing activation of spinal cord neurons that project to pain centers in the brain. Long-term changes in ion channel expression and function are thought to contribute to chronic pain states. Many of the channels involved in the afferent pain pathway are permeable to calcium ions, suggesting a role in cell signaling beyond the mere generation of electrical activity. In this article, we provide a broad overview of different calcium-permeable ion channels in the afferent pain pathway and their role in pain pathophysiology.
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Abstract
Chronic pain is a major therapeutic problem as the current treatment options are unsatisfactory with low efficacy and deleterious side effects. Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs), which are multi-complex proteins consisting of α1, β, γ, and α2δ subunits, play an important role in pain signaling. These channels are involved in neurogenic inflammation, excitability, and neurotransmitter release in nociceptors. It has been previously shown that N-type VGCCs (Cav2.2) are a major pain target. U.S. FDA approval of three Cav2.2 antagonists, gabapentin, pregabalin, and ziconotide, for chronic pain underlies the importance of this channel subtype. Also, there has been increasing evidence that L-type (Cav1.2) or T-type (Cav3.2) VGCCs may be involved in pain signaling and chronic pain. In order to develop novel pain therapeutics and to understand the role of VGCC subtypes, discovering subtype selective VGCC inhibitors or methods that selectively target the inhibitor into nociceptors would be essential. This review describes the various VGCC subtype inhibitors and the potential of utilizing VGCC subtypes as targets of chronic pain. Development of VGCC subtype inhibitors and targeting them into nociceptors will contribute to a better understanding of the roles of VGCC subtypes in pain at a spinal level as well as development of a novel class of analgesics for chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungkyu Lee
- F. M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston MA 02115 USA; ; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston MA 02115 USA
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Kline CF, Scott J, Curran J, Hund TJ, Mohler PJ. Ankyrin-B regulates Cav2.1 and Cav2.2 channel expression and targeting. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:5285-95. [PMID: 24394417 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.523639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
N-type and P/Q-type calcium channels are documented players in the regulation of synaptic function; however, the mechanisms underlying their expression and cellular targeting are poorly understood. Ankyrin polypeptides are essential for normal integral membrane protein expression in a number of cell types, including neurons, cardiomyocytes, epithelia, secretory cells, and erythrocytes. Ankyrin dysfunction has been linked to defects in integral protein expression, abnormal cellular function, and disease. Here, we demonstrate that ankyrin-B associates with Cav2.1 and Cav2.2 in cortex, cerebellum, and brain stem. Additionally, using in vitro and in vivo techniques, we demonstrate that ankyrin-B, via its membrane-binding domain, associates with a highly conserved motif in the DII/III loop domain of Cav2.1 and Cav2.2. Further, we demonstrate that this domain is necessary for proper targeting of Cav2.1 and Cav2.2 in a heterologous system. Finally, we demonstrate that mutation of a single conserved tyrosine residue in the ankyrin-binding motif of both Cav2.1 (Y797E) and Cav2.2 (Y788E) results in loss of association with ankyrin-B in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, our findings identify an interaction between ankyrin-B and both Cav2.1 and Cav2.2 at the amino acid level that is necessary for proper Cav2.1 and Cav2.2 targeting in vivo.
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Lee MS. Recent Progress in the Discovery and Development of N-Type Calcium Channel Modulators for the Treatment of Pain. PROGRESS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2014; 53:147-86. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63380-4.00004-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Jiang YQ, Andrade A, Lipscombe D. Spinal morphine but not ziconotide or gabapentin analgesia is affected by alternative splicing of voltage-gated calcium channel CaV2.2 pre-mRNA. Mol Pain 2013; 9:67. [PMID: 24369063 PMCID: PMC3916075 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-9-67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Presynaptic voltage-gated calcium CaV2.2 channels play a privileged role in spinal level sensitization following peripheral nerve injury. Direct and indirect inhibitors of CaV2.2 channel activity in spinal dorsal horn are analgesic in chronic pain states. CaV2.2 channels represent a family of splice isoforms that are expressed in different combinations according to cell-type. A pair of mutually exclusive exons in the CaV2.2 encoding Cacna1b gene, e37a and e37b, differentially influence morphine analgesia. In mice that lack exon e37a, which is enriched in nociceptors, the analgesic efficacy of intrathecal morphine against noxious thermal stimuli is reduced. Here we ask if sequences unique to e37a influence: the development of abnormal thermal and mechanical sensitivity associated with peripheral nerve injury; and the actions of two other classes of analgesics that owe part or all of their efficacy to CaV2.2 channel inhibition. We find that: i) the analgesic efficacy of morphine, but not ziconotide or gabapentin, is reduced in mice lacking e37a, ii) the induction and maintenance of behaviors associated with sensitization that accompany peripheral nerve injury, do not require e37a-specific sequence, iii) intrathecal morphine, but not ziconotide or gabapentin analgesia to thermal stimuli is significantly lower in wild-type mice after peripheral nerve injury, iv) the analgesic efficacy of ziconotide and gabapentin to mechanical stimuli is reduced following nerve injury, and iv) intrathecal morphine analgesia to thermal stimuli in mice lacking e37a is not further reduced by peripheral nerve injury. Our findings show that the analgesic action of morphine, but not ziconotide or gabapentin, to thermal stimuli is linked to which Cacna1b exon, e37a or e37b, is selected during alternative pre-mRNA splicing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Diane Lipscombe
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
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Mechanistic insights into the analgesic efficacy of A-1264087, a novel neuronal Ca(2+) channel blocker that reduces nociception in rat preclinical pain models. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2013; 15:387.e1-14. [PMID: 24374196 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2013.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Revised: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels play an important role in nociceptive transmission. There is significant evidence supporting a role for N-, T- and P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels in chronic pain. Here, we report that A-1264087, a structurally novel state-dependent blocker, inhibits each of these human Ca(2+) channels with similar potency (IC50 = 1-2 μM). A-1264087 was also shown to inhibit the release of the pronociceptive calcitonin gene-related peptide from rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. Oral administration of A-1264087 produces robust antinociceptive efficacy in monoiodoacetate-induced osteoarthritic, complete Freund adjuvant-induced inflammatory, and chronic constrictive injury of sciatic nerve-induced, neuropathic pain models with ED50 values of 3.0, 5.7, and 7.8 mg/kg (95% confidence interval = 2.2-3.5, 3.7-10, and 5.5-12.8 mg/kg), respectively. Further analysis revealed that A-1264087 also suppressed nociceptive-induced p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation, which are biochemical markers of engagement of pain circuitry in chronic pain states. Additionally, A-1264087 inhibited both spontaneous and evoked neuronal activity in the spinal cord dorsal horn in complete Freund adjuvant-inflamed rats, providing a neurophysiological basis for the observed antihyperalgesia. A-1264087 produced no alteration of body temperature or motor coordination and no learning impairment at therapeutic plasma concentrations. PERSPECTIVE The present results demonstrate that the neuronal Ca(2+) channel blocker A-1264087 exhibits broad-spectrum efficacy through engagement of nociceptive signaling pathways in preclinical pain models in the absence of effects on psychomotor and cognitive function.
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Feldman P, Khanna R. Challenging the catechism of therapeutics for chronic neuropathic pain: Targeting CaV2.2 interactions with CRMP2 peptides. Neurosci Lett 2013; 557 Pt A:27-36. [PMID: 23831344 PMCID: PMC3849117 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2013.06.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic pain management is a worldwide concern. Pharmaceutical companies globally have historically targeted ion channels as the therapeutic catechism with many blockbuster successes. Remarkably, no new pain therapeutic has been approved by European or American regulatory agencies over the last decade. This article will provide an overview of an alternative approach to ion channel drug discovery: targeting regulators of ion channels, specifically focusing on voltage-gated calcium channels. We will highlight the discovery of an anti-nociceptive peptide derived from a novel calcium channel interacting partner - the collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2). In vivo administration of this peptide reduces pain behavior in a number of models of neuropathic pain without affecting sympathetic-associated cardiovascular activity, memory retrieval, sensorimotor function, or depression. A CRMP2-derived peptide analgesic, with restricted access to the CNS, represents a completely novel approach to the treatment of severe pain with an improved safety profile. As peptides now represent one of the fastest growing classes of new drugs, it is expected that peptide targeting of protein interactions within the calcium channel complex may be a paradigm shift in ion channel drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina Feldman
- Sophia Therapeutics LLC, 351 West 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Sophia Therapeutics LLC, 351 West 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 635 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 635 Barnhill Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- Program in Medical Neurosciences, Paul and Carole Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, 950 West Walnut Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Ju W, Li Q, Wilson SM, Brittain JM, Meroueh L, Khanna R. SUMOylation alters CRMP2 regulation of calcium influx in sensory neurons. Channels (Austin) 2013; 7:153-9. [PMID: 23510938 DOI: 10.4161/chan.24224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The axon/dendrite specification collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) bidirectionally modulates N-type voltage-gated Ca ( 2+) channels (CaV2.2). Here we demonstrate that small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) protein modifies CRMP2 via the SUMO E2-conjugating enzyme Ubc9 in vivo. Removal of a SUMO conjugation site KMD in CRMP2 (K374A/M375A/D376A; CRMP2AAA) resulted in loss of SUMOylated CRMP2 without compromising neurite branching, a canonical hallmark of CRMP2 function. Increasing SUMOylation levels correlated inversely with calcium influx in sensory neurons. CRMP2 deSUMOylation by SUMO proteases SENP1 and SENP2 normalized calcium influx to those in the CRMP2AAA mutant. Thus, our results identify a novel role for SUMO modification in CRMP2/CaV2.2 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weina Ju
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Hannon HE, Atchison WD. Omega-conotoxins as experimental tools and therapeutics in pain management. Mar Drugs 2013; 11:680-99. [PMID: 23470283 PMCID: PMC3705365 DOI: 10.3390/md11030680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Revised: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain afflicts a large percentage of the global population. This form of chronic, intractable pain arises when the peripheral or central nervous systems are damaged, either directly by lesion or indirectly through disease. The comorbidity of neuropathic pain with other diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and AIDS, contributes to a complex pathogenesis and symptom profile. Because most patients present with neuropathic pain refractory to current first-line therapeutics, pharmaceuticals with greater efficacy in pain management are highly desired. In this review we discuss the growing application of ω-conotoxins, small peptides isolated from Conus species, in the management of neuropathic pain. These toxins are synthesized by predatory cone snails as a component of paralytic venoms. The potency and selectivity with which ω-conotoxins inhibit their molecular targets, voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, is advantageous in the treatment of neuropathic pain states, in which Ca2+ channel activity is characteristically aberrant. Although ω-conotoxins demonstrate analgesic efficacy in animal models of neuropathic pain and in human clinical trials, there remains a critical need to improve the convenience of peptide drug delivery methods, and reduce the number and severity of adverse effects associated with ω-conotoxin-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi E Hannon
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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