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Mohammadgholi-Beiki A, Sheibani M, Jafari-Sabet M, Motevalian M, Rahimi-Moghaddam P. Anti-inflammatory and protective effects of Aripiprazole on TNBS-Induced colitis and associated depression in rats: Role of kynurenine pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112158. [PMID: 38691917 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of depression is higher in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) than in the general population. Inflammatory cytokines and the kynurenine pathway (KP) play important roles in IBD and associated depression. Aripiprazole (ARP), an atypical antipsychotic, shows various anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful in treating major depressive disorder. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of ARP on TNBS-induced colitis and subsequent depression in rats, highlighting the role of the KP. MATERIAL AND METHODS Fifty-six male Wistar rats were used, and all groups except for the normal and sham groups received a single dose of intra-rectal TNBS. Three different doses of ARP and dexamethasone were injected intraperitoneally for two weeks in treatment groups. On the 15th day, behavioral tests were performed to evaluate depressive-like behaviors. Colon ulcer index and histological changes were assessed. The tissue levels of inflammatory cytokines, KP markers, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB), and zonula occludens (ZO-1) were evaluated in the colon and hippocampus. RESULTS TNBS effectively induced intestinal damages and subsequent depressive-like symptoms in rats. TNBS treatment significantly elevated the intestinal content of inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB expression, dysregulated the KP markers balance in both colon and hippocampus tissues, and increased the serum levels of LPS. However, treatment with ARP for 14 days successfully reversed these alterations, particularly at higher doses. CONCLUSION ARP could alleviate IBD-induced colon damage and associated depressive-like behaviors mainly via suppressing inflammatory cytokines activity, serum LPS concentration, and affecting the NF-κB/kynurenine pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Sheibani
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Razi Drug Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Majid Jafari-Sabet
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Razi Drug Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Manijeh Motevalian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Razi Drug Research Center, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Donlon J, Kumari P, Varghese SP, Bai M, Florentin OD, Frost ED, Banks J, Vadlapatla N, Kam O, Shad MU, Rahman S, Abulseoud OA, Stone TW, Koola MM. Integrative Pharmacology in the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders. J Dual Diagn 2024; 20:132-177. [PMID: 38117676 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2023.2293854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The detrimental physical, mental, and socioeconomic effects of substance use disorders (SUDs) have been apparent to the medical community for decades. However, it has become increasingly urgent in recent years to develop novel pharmacotherapies to treat SUDs. Currently, practitioners typically rely on monotherapy. Monotherapy has been shown to be superior to no treatment at all for most substance classes. However, many randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have revealed that monotherapy leads to poorer outcomes when compared with combination treatment in all specialties of medicine. The results of RCTs suggest that monotherapy frequently fails since multiple dysregulated pathways, enzymes, neurotransmitters, and receptors are involved in the pathophysiology of SUDs. As such, research is urgently needed to determine how various neurobiological mechanisms can be targeted by novel combination treatments to create increasingly specific yet exceedingly comprehensive approaches to SUD treatment. This article aims to review the neurobiology that integrates many pathophysiologic mechanisms and discuss integrative pharmacology developments that may ultimately improve clinical outcomes for patients with SUDs. Many neurobiological mechanisms are known to be involved in SUDs including dopaminergic, nicotinic, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), and kynurenic acid (KYNA) mechanisms. Emerging evidence indicates that KYNA, a tryptophan metabolite, modulates all these major pathophysiologic mechanisms. Therefore, achieving KYNA homeostasis by harmonizing integrative pathophysiology and pharmacology could prove to be a better therapeutic approach for SUDs. We propose KYNA-NMDA-α7nAChRcentric pathophysiology, the "conductor of the orchestra," as a novel approach to treat many SUDs concurrently. KYNA-NMDA-α7nAChR pathophysiology may be the "command center" of neuropsychiatry. To date, extant RCTs have shown equivocal findings across comparison conditions, possibly because investigators targeted single pathophysiologic mechanisms, hit wrong targets in underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms, and tested inadequate monotherapy treatment. We provide examples of potential combination treatments that simultaneously target multiple pathophysiologic mechanisms in addition to KYNA. Kynurenine pathway metabolism demonstrates the greatest potential as a target for neuropsychiatric diseases. The investigational medications with the most evidence include memantine, galantamine, and N-acetylcysteine. Future RCTs are warranted with novel combination treatments for SUDs. Multicenter RCTs with integrative pharmacology offer a promising, potentially fruitful avenue to develop novel therapeutics for the treatment of SUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Donlon
- Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, USA
| | - Pooja Kumari
- Community Living Trent Highlands, Peterborough, Canada
| | - Sajoy P Varghese
- Addiction Recovery Treatment Services, Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Michael Bai
- Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ori David Florentin
- Department of Psychiatry, Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Emma D Frost
- Department of Neurology, Cooper University Health Care, Camden, New Jersey, USA
| | - John Banks
- Talkiatry Mental Health Clinic, New York, New York, USA
| | - Niyathi Vadlapatla
- Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Alexandria, Virginia, USA
| | - Olivia Kam
- Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Mujeeb U Shad
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - Shafiqur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, USA
| | - Osama A Abulseoud
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Alix School of Medicine at Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Trevor W Stone
- Nuffield Department of Orthopedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Maju Mathew Koola
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Cooper University Health Care, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, USA
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Spekker E, Fejes-Szabó A, Nagy-Grócz G. Models of Trigeminal Activation: Is There an Animal Model of Migraine? Brain Sci 2024; 14:317. [PMID: 38671969 PMCID: PMC11048078 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14040317] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Migraine, recognized as a severe headache disorder, is widely prevalent, significantly impacting the quality of life for those affected. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the application of animal model technologies in unraveling the pathomechanism of migraine and developing more effective therapies. It introduces a variety of animal experimental models used in migraine research, emphasizing their versatility and importance in simulating various aspects of the condition. It details the benefits arising from the utilization of these models, emphasizing their role in elucidating pain mechanisms, clarifying trigeminal activation, as well as replicating migraine symptoms and histological changes. In addition, the article consciously acknowledges the inherent limitations and challenges associated with the application of animal experimental models. Recognizing these constraints is a fundamental step toward fine-tuning and optimizing the models for a more accurate reflection of and translatability to the human environment. Overall, a detailed and comprehensive understanding of migraine animal models is crucial for navigating the complexity of the disease. These findings not only provide a deeper insight into the multifaceted nature of migraine but also serve as a foundation for developing effective therapeutic strategies that specifically address the unique challenges arising from migraine pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonóra Spekker
- Interdisciplinary Research Development and Innovation, Center of Excellence, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Annamária Fejes-Szabó
- HUN-REN–SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Gábor Nagy-Grócz
- Department of Theoretical Health Sciences and Health Management, Faculty of Health Sciences and Social Studies, University of Szeged, Temesvári Krt. 31., H-6726 Szeged, Hungary;
- Preventive Health Sciences Research Group, Incubation Competence Centre of the Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development and Innovation of the University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
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Schwarcz R, Foo A, Sathyasaikumar KV, Notarangelo FM. The Probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri Preferentially Synthesizes Kynurenic Acid from Kynurenine. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3679. [PMID: 38612489 PMCID: PMC11011989 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073679] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The gut-brain axis is increasingly understood to play a role in neuropsychiatric disorders. The probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus (L.) reuteri and products of tryptophan degradation, specifically the neuroactive kynurenine pathway (KP) metabolite kynurenic acid (KYNA), have received special attention in this context. We, therefore, assessed relevant features of KP metabolism, namely, the cellular uptake of the pivotal metabolite kynurenine and its conversion to its primary products KYNA, 3-hydroxykynurenine and anthranilic acid in L. reuteri by incubating the bacteria in Hank's Balanced Salt solution in vitro. Kynurenine readily entered the bacterial cells and was preferentially converted to KYNA, which was promptly released into the extracellular milieu. De novo production of KYNA increased linearly with increasing concentrations of kynurenine (up to 1 mM) and bacteria (107 to 109 CFU/mL) and with incubation time (1-3 h). KYNA neosynthesis was blocked by two selective inhibitors of mammalian kynurenine aminotransferase II (PF-048559989 and BFF-122). In contrast to mammals, however, kynurenine uptake was not influenced by other substrates of the mammalian large neutral amino acid transporter, and KYNA production was not affected by the presumed competitive enzyme substrates (glutamine and α-aminoadipate). Taken together, these results reveal substantive qualitative differences between bacterial and mammalian KP metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Schwarcz
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21228, USA; (A.F.); (K.V.S.)
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Ishikawa M, Yamamoto Y, Wulaer B, Kunisawa K, Fujigaki H, Ando T, Kimura H, Kushima I, Arioka Y, Torii Y, Mouri A, Ozaki N, Nabeshima T, Saito K. Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 2 deficiency associates with autism-like behavior via dopaminergic neuronal dysfunction. FEBS J 2024; 291:945-964. [PMID: 38037233 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17019] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 2 (IDO2) is an enzyme of the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway that is constitutively expressed in the brain. To provide insight into the physiological role of IDO2 in the brain, behavioral and neurochemical analyses in IDO2 knockout (KO) mice were performed. IDO2 KO mice showed stereotyped behavior, restricted interest and social deficits, traits that are associated with behavioral endophenotypes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). IDO2 was colocalized immunohistochemically with tyrosine-hydroxylase-positive cells in dopaminergic neurons. In the striatum and amygdala of IDO2 KO mice, decreased dopamine turnover was associated with increased α-synuclein level. Correspondingly, levels of downstream dopamine D1 receptor signaling molecules such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor and c-Fos positive proteins were decreased. Furthermore, decreased abundance of ramified-type microglia resulted in increased dendritic spine density in the striatum of IDO2 KO mice. Both chemogenetic activation of dopaminergic neurons and treatment with methylphenidate, a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, ameliorated the ASD-like behavior of IDO2 KO mice. Sequencing analysis of exon regions in IDO2 from 309 ASD samples identified a rare canonical splice site variant in one ASD case. These results suggest that the IDO2 gene is, at least in part, a factor closely related to the development of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Ishikawa
- Department of Advanced Diagnostic System Development, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Yasuko Yamamoto
- Department of Advanced Diagnostic System Development, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Bolati Wulaer
- Department of Advanced Diagnostic System Development, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
- Laboratory of Health and Medical Science Innovation, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Science, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Kazuo Kunisawa
- Department of Regulatory Science for Evaluation & Development of Pharmaceuticals & Devices, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Hidetsugu Fujigaki
- Department of Advanced Diagnostic System Development, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Ando
- Department of Advanced Diagnostic System Development, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kimura
- Department of Psychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Itaru Kushima
- Medical Genomics Center, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuko Arioka
- Department of Psychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Youta Torii
- Department of Psychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akihiro Mouri
- Department of Regulatory Science for Evaluation & Development of Pharmaceuticals & Devices, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
- Japanese Drug Organization of Appropriate Use and Research, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Norio Ozaki
- Department of Psychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Toshitaka Nabeshima
- Laboratory of Health and Medical Science Innovation, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Science, Toyoake, Japan
- Japanese Drug Organization of Appropriate Use and Research, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kuniaki Saito
- Department of Advanced Diagnostic System Development, Fujita Health University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Toyoake, Japan
- Japanese Drug Organization of Appropriate Use and Research, Nagoya, Japan
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Nagy-Grócz G, Spekker E, Vécsei L. Kynurenines, Neuronal Excitotoxicity, and Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress: Role of the Intestinal Flora. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1698. [PMID: 38338981 PMCID: PMC10855176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031698] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The intestinal flora has been the focus of numerous investigations recently, with inquiries not just into the gastrointestinal aspects but also the pathomechanism of other diseases such as nervous system disorders and mitochondrial diseases. Mitochondrial disorders are the most common type of inheritable metabolic illness caused by mutations of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA. Despite the intensive research, its diagnosis is usually difficult, and unfortunately, treating it challenges physicians. Metabolites of the kynurenine pathway are linked to many disorders, such as depression, schizophrenia, migraine, and also diseases associated with impaired mitochondrial function. The kynurenine pathway includes many substances, for instance kynurenic acid and quinolinic acid. In this review, we would like to show a possible link between the metabolites of the kynurenine pathway and mitochondrial stress in the context of intestinal flora. Furthermore, we summarize the possible markers of and future therapeutic options for the kynurenine pathway in excitotoxicity and mitochondrial oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Nagy-Grócz
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary;
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Social Studies, University of Szeged, Temesvári krt. 31., H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Preventive Health Sciences Research Group, Incubation Competence Centre of the Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development and Innovation of the University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary;
- HUN-REN-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
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Sheibani M, Shayan M, Khalilzadeh M, Soltani ZE, Jafari-Sabet M, Ghasemi M, Dehpour AR. Kynurenine pathway and its role in neurologic, psychiatric, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:10409-10425. [PMID: 37848760 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08859-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Tryptophan metabolism along the kynurenine pathway is of central importance for the immune function. It prevents hyperinflammation and induces long-term immune tolerance. Accumulating evidence also demonstrates cytoprotective and immunomodulatory properties of kynurenine pathway in conditions affecting either central or peripheral nervous system as well as other conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although multilevel association exists between the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and various neurologic (e.g., neurodegenerative) disorders, it is believed that the kynurenine pathway plays a pivotal role in the development of both IBD and neurodegenerative disorders. In this setting, there is strong evidence linking the gut-brain axis with intestinal dysfunctions including IBD which is consistent with the fact that the risk of neurodegenerative diseases is higher in IBD patients. This review aims to highlight the role of kynurenine metabolic pathway in various neurologic and psychiatric diseases as well as relationship between IBD and neurodegenerative disorders in the light of the kynurenine metabolic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sheibani
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Razi Drug Research Centre, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shayan
- Experimental Medicine Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, MS, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mina Khalilzadeh
- Experimental Medicine Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, MS, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Ebrahim Soltani
- Experimental Medicine Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, MS, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Jafari-Sabet
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Razi Drug Research Centre, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Ghasemi
- Department of Neurology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, 41 Mall Road, Burlington, MA, 01803, USA.
| | - Ahmad Reza Dehpour
- Experimental Medicine Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, MS, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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García-Aguilar R, Ortega A, López-Bayghen E, Ramírez-Martínez L, Rodriguez-Campuzano A, Murillo-González F, Elizondo G, Vega L. Kynurenine attenuates mitochondrial depolarization and neuronal cell death induced by rotenone exposure independently of AhR-mediated parkin induction in SH-SY5Y differentiated cells. Neurotoxicology 2023; 99:282-291. [PMID: 37979659 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Rotenone is a pesticide commonly used in agriculture that is associated with the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD) by inducing mitochondrial damage. As a protective cell response to different challenges, they activate mitophagy, which involves parkin activity. Parkin is an E3 ubiquitin ligase necessary in the initial steps of mitophagy, and its overexpression protects against parkinsonian effects in different models. Recent studies have reported that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-dependent transcription factor, induces parkin expression. Kynurenine, an endogenous AHR ligand, promotes neuroprotection in chronic neurodegenerative disorders, such as PD, although its neuroprotective mechanism needs to be fully understood. Therefore, we evaluated whether the overexpression of parkin by AHR activation with kynurenine promotes autophagy and reduces the neurotoxicity induced by rotenone in SH-SY5Y cells differentiated to dopaminergic neurons. SH-SY5Y neurons were treated with rotenone or pretreated with kynurenine or 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), and parkin levels, apoptosis, mitochondrial potential membrane, and autophagy were determined. The results showed that kynurenine and TCDD treatments induced parkin expression in an AHR-dependent manner. Kynurenine pretreatment inhibited rotenone-induced neuronal apoptosis in 17%, and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in 30% when compare to rotenone alone, together with a decrease in autophagy. By contrast, although TCDD treatment increased parkin levels, non-neuroprotective effects were observed. The kynurenine protective activity was AHR independent, suggesting that parkin induction might not be related to this effect. On the other hand, kynurenine treatment inhibited alpha amine-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazol propionic acid and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, which are well-known excitotoxicity mediators activated by rotenone exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario García-Aguilar
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Arturo Ortega
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Esther López-Bayghen
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Leticia Ramírez-Martínez
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ada Rodriguez-Campuzano
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fátima Murillo-González
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Guillermo Elizondo
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Libia Vega
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Spekker E, Nagy-Grócz G, Vécsei L. Ion Channel Disturbances in Migraine Headache: Exploring the Potential Role of the Kynurenine System in the Context of the Trigeminovascular System. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16574. [PMID: 38068897 PMCID: PMC10706278 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Migraine is a primary headache disorder, which is an enormous burden to the healthcare system. While some aspects of the pathomechanism of migraines remain unknown, the most accepted theory is that activation and sensitization of the trigeminovascular system are essential during migraine attacks. In recent decades, it has been suggested that ion channels may be important participants in the pathogenesis of migraine. Numerous ion channels are expressed in the peripheral and central nervous systems, including the trigeminovascular system, affecting neuron excitability, synaptic energy homeostasis, inflammatory signaling, and pain sensation. Dysfunction of ion channels could result in neuronal excitability and peripheral or central sensitization. This narrative review covers the current understanding of the biological mechanisms leading to activation and sensitization of the trigeminovascular pain pathway, with a focus on recent findings on ion channel activation and modulation. Furthermore, we focus on the kynurenine pathway since this system contains kynurenic acid, which is an endogenous glutamate receptor antagonist substance, and it has a role in migraine pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gábor Nagy-Grócz
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary;
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Social Studies, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Preventive Health Sciences Research Group, Incubation Competence Centre of the Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development and Innovation of the University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary;
- HUN-REN-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Szeged, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
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Auyeung A, Wang HC, Aravagiri K, Knezevic NN. Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites as Potential Biomarkers in Chronic Pain. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050681. [PMID: 37242464 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a pressing medical and socioeconomic issue worldwide. It is debilitating for individual patients and places a major burden on society in the forms of direct medical costs and lost work productivity. Various biochemical pathways have been explored to explain the pathophysiology of chronic pain in order to identify biomarkers that can potentially serve as both evaluators of and guides for therapeutic effectiveness. The kynurenine pathway has recently been a source of interest due to its suspected role in the development and sustainment of chronic pain conditions. The kynurenine pathway is the primary pathway responsible for the metabolization of tryptophan and generates nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), in addition to the metabolites kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KA), and quinolinic acid (QA). Dysregulation of this pathway and changes in the ratios of these metabolites have been associated with numerous neurotoxic and inflammatory states, many of which present simultaneously with chronic pain symptoms. While further studies utilizing biomarkers to elucidate the kynurenine pathway's role in chronic pain are needed, the metabolites and receptors involved in its processes nevertheless present researchers with promising sources of novel and personalized disease-modifying treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Auyeung
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA
| | - Hank C Wang
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Kannan Aravagiri
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
| | - Nebojsa Nick Knezevic
- Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Silva-Parra J, Sandu C, Felder-Schmittbuhl MP, Hernández-Kelly LC, Ortega A. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Glia Cells: A Plausible Glutamatergic Neurotransmission Orchestrator. Neurotox Res 2023; 41:103-117. [PMID: 36607593 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-022-00623-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Glutamate is the major excitatory amino acid in the vertebrate brain. Glutamatergic signaling is involved in most of the central nervous system functions. Its main components, namely receptors, ion channels, and transporters, are tightly regulated at the transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels through a diverse array of extracellular signals, such as food, light, and neuroactive molecules. An exquisite and well-coordinated glial/neuronal bidirectional communication is required for proper excitatory amino acid signal transactions. Biochemical shuttles such as the glutamate/glutamine and the astrocyte-neuronal lactate represent the fundamental involvement of glial cells in glutamatergic transmission. In fact, the disruption of any of these coordinated biochemical intercellular cascades leads to an excitotoxic insult that underlies some aspects of most of the neurodegenerative diseases characterized thus far. In this contribution, we provide a comprehensive summary of the involvement of the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor, a ligand-dependent transcription factor in the gene expression regulation of glial glutamate transporters. These receptors might serve as potential targets for the development of novel strategies for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janisse Silva-Parra
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. IPN 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, 07360, CDMX, México
| | - Cristina Sandu
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marie-Paule Felder-Schmittbuhl
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Luisa C Hernández-Kelly
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. IPN 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, 07360, CDMX, México
| | - Arturo Ortega
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Av. IPN 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, 07360, CDMX, México.
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12
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Stone TW, Clanchy FIL, Huang YS, Chiang NY, Darlington LG, Williams RO. An integrated cytokine and kynurenine network as the basis of neuroimmune communication. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1002004. [PMID: 36507331 PMCID: PMC9729788 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1002004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Two of the molecular families closely associated with mediating communication between the brain and immune system are cytokines and the kynurenine metabolites of tryptophan. Both groups regulate neuron and glial activity in the central nervous system (CNS) and leukocyte function in the immune system, although neither group alone completely explains neuroimmune function, disease occurrence or severity. This essay suggests that the two families perform complementary functions generating an integrated network. The kynurenine pathway determines overall neuronal excitability and plasticity by modulating glutamate receptors and GPR35 activity across the CNS, and regulates general features of immune cell status, surveillance and tolerance which often involves the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR). Equally, cytokines and chemokines define and regulate specific populations of neurons, glia or immune system leukocytes, generating more specific responses within restricted CNS regions or leukocyte populations. In addition, as there is a much larger variety of these compounds, their homing properties enable the superimposition of dynamic variations of cell activity upon local, spatially limited, cell populations. This would in principle allow the targeting of potential treatments to restricted regions of the CNS. The proposed synergistic interface of 'tonic' kynurenine pathway affecting baseline activity and the superimposed 'phasic' cytokine system would constitute an integrated network explaining some features of neuroimmune communication. The concept would broaden the scope for the development of new treatments for disorders involving both the CNS and immune systems, with safer and more effective agents targeted to specific CNS regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W. Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Trevor W. Stone,
| | - Felix I. L. Clanchy
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yi-Shu Huang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nien-Yi Chiang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - L. Gail Darlington
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ashtead Hospital, Ashtead, United Kingdom
| | - Richard O. Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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13
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Lukić I, Ivković S, Mitić M, Adžić M. Tryptophan metabolites in depression: Modulation by gut microbiota. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:987697. [PMID: 36172468 PMCID: PMC9510596 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.987697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical depression is a multifactorial disorder and one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. The alterations in tryptophan metabolism such as changes in the levels of serotonin, kynurenine, and kynurenine acid have been implicated in the etiology of depression for more than 50 years. In recent years, accumulated evidence has revealed that gut microbial communities, besides being essential players in various aspects of host physiology and brain functioning are also implicated in the etiology of depression, particularly through modulation of tryptophan metabolism. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize the evidence of the role of gut bacteria in disturbed tryptophan metabolism in depression. We summed up the effects of microbiota on serotonin, kynurenine, and indole pathway of tryptophan conversion relevant for understanding the pathogenesis of depressive behavior. Moreover, we reviewed data regarding the therapeutic effects of probiotics, particularly through the regulation of tryptophan metabolites. Taken together, these findings can open new possibilities for further improvement of treatments for depression based on the microbiota-mediated modulation of the tryptophan pathway.
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14
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Meng X, Wang L, He M, Yang Z, Jiao Y, Hu Y, Wang K. Cysteine conjugate beta-lyase 2 (CCBL2) expression as a prognostic marker of survival in breast cancer patients. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269998. [PMID: 35771747 PMCID: PMC9246202 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Cysteine conjugate beta-lyase 2 (CCBL2), also known as kynurenine aminotransferase 3 (KAT3) or glutamine transaminase L (GTL), plays an essential role in transamination and cytochrome P450. Its correlation with some other cancers has been explored, but breast cancer (BC) not yet. Methods The mRNA and protein expression of CCBL2 in BC cell lines and patient samples were detected by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC). BC patients’ clinical information and RNA-Seq expression were acquired via The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Patients were categorized into high/low CCBL2 expression groups based on the optimal cutoff value (8.973) determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. We investigated CCBL2 and clinicopathological characteristics’ relationship using Chi-square tests, estimated diagnostic capacity using ROC curves and drew survival curves using Kaplan–Meier estimate. We compared survival differences using Cox regression and externally validated using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We evaluated enriched signaling pathways using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), explored CCBL2 and relevant genes’ relationship using tumor immunoassay resource (TIMER) databases and used the human protein atlas (HPA) for pan-cancer analysis and IHC. Results CCBL2 was overexpressed in normal human cell lines and tissues. CCBL2 expression was lower in BC tissues (n = 1104) than in normal tissues (n = 114), validated by GEO database. Several clinicopathologic features were related to CCBL2, especially estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and clinical stages. The low expression group exhibited poor survival. CCBL2’s area under curve (AUC) analysis showed finite diagnostic capacity. Multivariate cox-regression analysis indicated CCBL2 independently predicted BC survival. GSEA showed enriched pathways: early estrogen response, MYC and so on. CCBL2 positively correlated with estrogen, progesterone and androgen receptors. CCBL2 was downregulated in most cancers and was associated with their survival, including renal and ovarian cancers. Conclusions Low CCBL2 expression is a promising poor BC survival independent prognostic marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Meng
- Department of Breast Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Miao He
- Department of Anesthesia, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhaoying Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yan Jiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yubo Hu
- Department of Anesthesia, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- * E-mail: (YH); (KW)
| | - Keren Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- * E-mail: (YH); (KW)
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15
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Martos D, Tuka B, Tanaka M, Vécsei L, Telegdy G. Memory Enhancement with Kynurenic Acid and Its Mechanisms in Neurotransmission. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040849. [PMID: 35453599 PMCID: PMC9027307 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is an endogenous tryptophan (Trp) metabolite known to possess neuroprotective property. KYNA plays critical roles in nociception, neurodegeneration, and neuroinflammation. A lower level of KYNA is observed in patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases or psychiatric disorders such as depression and autism spectrum disorders, whereas a higher level of KYNA is associated with the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Little is known about the optimal concentration for neuroprotection and the threshold for neurotoxicity. In this study the effects of KYNA on memory functions were investigated by passive avoidance test in mice. Six different doses of KYNA were administered intracerebroventricularly to previously trained CFLP mice and they were observed for 24 h. High doses of KYNA (i.e., 20–40 μg/2 μL) significantly decreased the avoidance latency, whereas a low dose of KYNA (0.5 μg/2 μL) significantly elevated it compared with controls, suggesting that the low dose of KYNA enhanced memory function. Furthermore, six different receptor blockers were applied to reveal the mechanisms underlying the memory enhancement induced by KYNA. The series of tests revealed the possible involvement of the serotonergic, dopaminergic, α and β adrenergic, and opiate systems in the nootropic effect. This study confirmed that a low dose of KYNA improved a memory component of cognitive domain, which was mediated by, at least in part, four systems of neurotransmission in an animal model of learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diána Martos
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, University of Szeged (MTA-SZTE), Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.M.); (B.T.); (M.T.)
| | - Bernadett Tuka
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, University of Szeged (MTA-SZTE), Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.M.); (B.T.); (M.T.)
| | - Masaru Tanaka
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, University of Szeged (MTA-SZTE), Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.M.); (B.T.); (M.T.)
| | - László Vécsei
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, University of Szeged (MTA-SZTE), Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary; (D.M.); (B.T.); (M.T.)
- Department of Neurology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-62-342-361
| | - Gyula Telegdy
- Department of Pathophysiology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 5, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary;
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16
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Recent advances in clinical trials targeting the kynurenine pathway. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 236:108055. [PMID: 34929198 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.108055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the major catabolic pathway for the essential amino acid tryptophan leading to the production of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. In inflammatory conditions, the activation of the KP leads to the production of several bioactive metabolites including kynurenine, 3-hydroxykynurenine, 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, kynurenic acid and quinolinic acid. These metabolites can have redox and immune suppressive activity, be neurotoxic or neuroprotective. While the activity of the pathway is tightly regulated under normal physiological condition, it can be upregulated by immunological activation and inflammation. The dysregulation of the KP has been implicated in wide range of neurological diseases and psychiatric disorders. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms involved in KP-mediated neurotoxicity and immune suppression, and its role in diseases of our expertise including cancer, chronic pain and multiple sclerosis. We also provide updates on the clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of KP inhibitors and/or analogues in each respective disease.
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17
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Imbeault S, Gubert Olivé M, Jungholm O, Erhardt S, Wigström H, Engberg G, Jardemark K. Blockade of KAT II Facilitates LTP in Kynurenine 3-Monooxygenase Depleted Mice. Int J Tryptophan Res 2021; 14:11786469211041368. [PMID: 34483669 PMCID: PMC8411644 DOI: 10.1177/11786469211041368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Excess of brain kynurenic acid (KYNA), a neuroactive metabolite of the kynurenine
pathway, is known to elicit cognitive dysfunction. In the present study, we
investigated spatial working memory in mice with elevated levels of KYNA,
induced by targeted deletion of kynurenine 3-monooxygenase (KMO), as well as
long-term potentiation (LTP) of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials
(fEPSPs) in hippocampal brain slices from these mice. The KMO knock-out
(KMO−/−) mice performed more poorly in the spatial working memory
task as compared to their wild-type (WT) counterparts, as reflected by fewer
correct choices in a T-maze. Both fEPSPs, or LTP, did not significantly differ
between the 2 mouse strains. However, administration of PF-04859989, a
kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) II inhibitor, limiting the production of KYNA,
facilitated fEPSP and enhanced LTP to a greater extent in hippocampal slices
from KMO−/− mice compared to WT mice. The results of the present
study point to an essential role for KYNA in modulating LTP in the hippocampus
of KMO−/− mice which may account for their dysfunctional spatial
working memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Imbeault
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Max Gubert Olivé
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Oscar Jungholm
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Erhardt
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Holger Wigström
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Göran Engberg
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kent Jardemark
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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18
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Valente-Silva P, Cervenka I, Ferreira DMS, Correia JC, Edman S, Horwath O, Heng B, Chow S, Jacobs KR, Guillemin GJ, Blomstrand E, Ruas JL. Effects of Tryptophan Supplementation and Exercise on the Fate of Kynurenine Metabolites in Mice and Humans. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11080508. [PMID: 34436450 PMCID: PMC8400416 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11080508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway of tryptophan (TRP) degradation (KP) generates metabolites with effects on metabolism, immunity, and mental health. Endurance exercise training can change KP metabolites by changing the levels of KP enzymes in skeletal muscle. This leads to a metabolite pattern that favors energy expenditure and an anti-inflammatory immune cell profile and reduces neurotoxic metabolites. Here, we aimed to understand if TRP supplementation in untrained vs. trained subjects affects KP metabolite levels and biological effects. Our data show that chronic TRP supplementation in mice increases all KP metabolites in circulation, and that exercise reduces the neurotoxic branch of the pathway. However, in addition to increasing wheel running, we did not observe other effects of TRP supplementation on training adaptations, energy metabolism or behavior in mice. A similar increase in KP metabolites was seen in trained vs. untrained human volunteers that took a TRP drink while performing a bout of aerobic exercise. With this acute TRP administration, TRP and KYN were higher in the trained vs. the untrained group. Considering the many biological effects of the KP, which can lead to beneficial or deleterious effects to health, our data encourage future studies of the crosstalk between TRP supplementation and physical exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Valente-Silva
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Igor Cervenka
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Duarte M. S. Ferreira
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Jorge C. Correia
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
| | - Sebastian Edman
- Department of Physiology, Nutrition and Biomechanics, Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, 114 33 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.E.); (O.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Oscar Horwath
- Department of Physiology, Nutrition and Biomechanics, Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, 114 33 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.E.); (O.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Benjamin Heng
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Sharron Chow
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Kelly R. Jacobs
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Gilles J. Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sidney, NSW 2109, Australia; (B.H.); (S.C.); (K.R.J.); (G.J.G.)
| | - Eva Blomstrand
- Department of Physiology, Nutrition and Biomechanics, Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences, 114 33 Stockholm, Sweden; (S.E.); (O.H.); (E.B.)
| | - Jorge L. Ruas
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Biomedicum Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.V.-S.); (I.C.); (D.M.S.F.); (J.C.C.)
- Correspondence:
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19
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Walczak K, Kazimierczak P, Szalast K, Plech T. UVB Radiation and Selected Tryptophan-Derived AhR Ligands-Potential Biological Interactions in Melanoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147500. [PMID: 34299117 PMCID: PMC8307169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive UV exposure is considered the major environmental factor in melanoma progression. Human skin is constantly exposed to selected tryptophan-derived aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligands, including kynurenine (KYN) and kynurenic acid (KYNA), as they are endogenously produced and present in various tissues and body fluids. Importantly, recent studies confirmed the biological activity of KYN and KYNA toward melanoma cells in vitro. Thus, in this study, the potential biological interactions between UVB and tryptophan metabolites KYN and KYNA were studied in melanoma A375, SK-MEL-3, and RPMI-7951 cells. It was shown that UVB enhanced the antiproliferative activity of KYN and KYNA in melanoma cells. Importantly, selected tryptophan-derived AhR ligands did not affect the invasiveness of A375 and RPMI-7951 cells; however, the stimulatory effect was observed in SK-MEL-3 cells exposed to UVB. Thus, the effect of tryptophan metabolites on metabolic activity, cell cycle regulation, and cell death in SK-MEL-3 cells exposed to UVB was assessed. In conclusion, taking into account that both UVB radiation and tryptophan-derived AhR ligands may have a crucial effect on skin cancer formation and progression, these results may have a significant impact, revealing the potential biological interactions in melanoma cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walczak
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20093 Lublin, Poland; (K.S.); (T.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-814-486-774
| | - Paulina Kazimierczak
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Karolina Szalast
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20093 Lublin, Poland; (K.S.); (T.P.)
| | - Tomasz Plech
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20093 Lublin, Poland; (K.S.); (T.P.)
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20
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Zhu X, Hu J, Deng S, Tan Y, Qiu C, Zhang M, Ni X, Lu H, Wang Z, Li L, Luo Y, Huang S, Xiao T, Liu S, Li X, Shang D, Wen Y. Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis of the Kynurenine Pathway in Mood Disorders: Focus on Gut Microbiota Research. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:687757. [PMID: 34239441 PMCID: PMC8258344 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.687757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Emerging evidence implicates the dysregulated kynurenine pathway (KP), an immune-inflammatory pathway, in the pathophysiology of mood disorders (MD), including depression and bipolar disorder characterized by a low-grade chronic pro-inflammatory state. The metabolites of the KP, an important part of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, serve as immune system modulators linking the gut microbiota (GM) with the host central nervous system. Aim: This bibliometric analysis aimed to provide a first glimpse into the KP in MD, with a focus on GM research in this field, to guide future research and promote the development of this field. Methods: Publications relating to the KP in MD between the years 2000 and 2020 were retrieved from the Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), and analyzed in CiteSpace (5.7 R5W), biblioshiny (using R-Studio), and VOSviewer (1.6.16). Results: In total, 1,064 and 948 documents were extracted from the Scopus and WoSCC databases, respectively. The publications have shown rapid growth since 2006, partly owing to the largest research hotspot appearing since then, “quinolinic acid.” All the top five most relevant journals were in the neuropsychiatry field, such as Brain Behavior and Immunity. The United States and Innsbruck Medical University were the most influential country and institute, respectively. Journal co-citation analysis showed a strong tendency toward co-citation of research in the psychiatry field. Reference co-citation analysis revealed that the top four most important research focuses were “kynurenine pathway,” “psychoneuroimmunology,” “indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase,” and “proinflammatory cytokines,” and the most recent focus was “gut-brain axis,” thus indicating the role of the KP in bridging the GM and the host immune system, and together reflecting the field’s research foundations. Overlap analysis between the thematic map of keywords and the keyword burst analysis revealed that the topics “Alzheimer’s disease,” “prefrontal cortex,” and “acid,” were research frontiers. Conclusion: This comprehensive bibliometric study provides an updated perspective on research associated with the KP in MD, with a focus on the current status of GM research in this field. This perspective may benefit researchers in choosing suitable journals and collaborators, and aid in the further understanding of the field’s hotspots and frontiers, thus facilitating future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuqing Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinqing Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuhua Deng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqian Tan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Qiu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojia Ni
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoyang Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhanzhang Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yayan Luo
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Neuropsychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanqing Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Xiao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Shujing Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Dewei Shang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuguan Wen
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine of Mental Disorders, Guangzhou, China
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21
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Stone TW. Relationships and Interactions between Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors and Nicotinic Receptors in the CNS. Neuroscience 2021; 468:321-365. [PMID: 34111447 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although ionotropic glutamate receptors and nicotinic receptors for acetylcholine (ACh) have usually been studied separately, they are often co-localized and functionally inter-dependent. The objective of this review is to survey the evidence for interactions between the two receptor families and the mechanisms underlying them. These include the mutual regulation of subunit expression, which change the NMDA:AMPA response balance, and the existence of multi-functional receptor complexes which make it difficult to distinguish between individual receptor sites, especially in vivo. This is followed by analysis of the functional relationships between the receptors from work on transmitter release, cellular electrophysiology and aspects of behavior where these can contribute to understanding receptor interactions. It is clear that nicotinic receptors (nAChRs) on axonal terminals directly regulate the release of glutamate and other neurotransmitters, α7-nAChRs generally promoting release. Hence, α7-nAChR responses will be prevented not only by a nicotinic antagonist, but also by compounds blocking the indirectly activated glutamate receptors. This accounts for the apparent anticholinergic activity of some glutamate antagonists, including the endogenous antagonist kynurenic acid. The activation of presynaptic nAChRs is by the ambient levels of ACh released from pre-terminal synapses, varicosities and glial cells, acting as a 'volume neurotransmitter' on synaptic and extrasynaptic sites. In addition, ACh and glutamate are released as CNS co-transmitters, including 'cholinergic' synapses onto spinal Renshaw cells. It is concluded that ACh should be viewed primarily as a modulator of glutamatergic neurotransmission by regulating the release of glutamate presynaptically, and the location, subunit composition, subtype balance and sensitivity of glutamate receptors, and not primarily as a classical fast neurotransmitter. These conclusions and caveats should aid clarification of the sites of action of glutamate and nicotinic receptor ligands in the search for new centrally-acting drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK; Institute of Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK.
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22
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Rentschler KM, Baratta AM, Ditty AL, Wagner NTJ, Wright CJ, Milosavljevic S, Mong JA, Pocivavsek A. Prenatal Kynurenine Elevation Elicits Sex-Dependent Changes in Sleep and Arousal During Adulthood: Implications for Psychotic Disorders. Schizophr Bull 2021; 47:1320-1330. [PMID: 33823027 PMCID: PMC8379538 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) of tryptophan catabolism has been implicated in psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a KP metabolite synthesized by kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs) from its biological precursor kynurenine and acts as an endogenous antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate and α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Elevated KYNA levels found in postmortem brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid of patients are hypothesized to play a key role in the etiology of cognitive symptoms observed in psychotic disorders. Sleep plays an important role in memory consolidation, and sleep disturbances are common among patients. Yet, little is known about the effect of altered KP metabolism on sleep-wake behavior. We presently utilized a well-established experimental paradigm of embryonic kynurenine (EKyn) exposure wherein pregnant dams are fed a diet laced with kynurenine the last week of gestation and hypothesized disrupted sleep-wake behavior in adult offspring. We examined sleep behavior in adult male and female offspring using electroencephalogram and electromyogram telemetry and determined sex differences in sleep and arousal in EKyn offspring. EKyn males displayed reduced rapid eye movement sleep, while female EKyn offspring were hyperaroused compared to controls. We determined that EKyn males maintain elevated brain KYNA levels, while KYNA levels were unchanged in EKyn females, yet the activity levels of KAT I and KAT II were reduced. Our findings indicate that elevated prenatal kynurenine exposure elicits sex-specific changes in sleep-wake behavior, arousal, and KP metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Rentschler
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | - Audrey L Ditty
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Nathan T J Wagner
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Courtney J Wright
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Snezana Milosavljevic
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Jessica A Mong
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ana Pocivavsek
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed; tel: (803) 216–3509, fax: 803-216-3538, e-mail:
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23
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Al-Karagholi MAM, Hansen JM, Abou-Kassem D, Hansted AK, Ubhayasekera K, Bergquist J, Vécsei L, Jansen-Olesen I, Ashina M. Phase 1 study to access safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of kynurenine in healthy volunteers. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2021; 9:e00741. [PMID: 33682377 PMCID: PMC7937944 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the main path for tryptophan metabolism, and it represents a multitude of potential sites for drug discovery in neuroscience, including pain, stroke, and epilepsy. L‐kynurenine (LKYN), the first active metabolite in the pathway, emerges to be a prodrug targeting glutamate receptors. The safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of LKYN in humans have not been previously investigated. In an open‐label, single ascending dose study, six participants received an intravenous infusion of 50, 100, and 150 µg/kg LKYN and new six participants received an intravenous infusion of 0.3, 0.5, 1, and 5 mg/kg LKYN. To compare the pharmacological effects between species, we investigated in vivo the vascular effects of LKYN in rats. In humans, LKYN was safe and well‐tolerated at all dose levels examined. After infusion, LKYN plasma concentration increased significantly over time 3.23 ± 1.12 µg/mL (after 50 µg/kg), 4.04 ± 1.1 µg/mL (after 100 µg/kg), and 5.25 ± 1.01 µg/mL (after 150 µg/kg) (p ≤ 0.001). We observed no vascular changes after infusion compared with baseline. In rats, LKYN had no effect on HR and MAP and caused no dilation of dural and pial arteries. This first‐in‐human study of LKYN showed that LKYN was safe and well‐tolerated after intravenous infusion up to 5 mg/kg over 20 minutes. The lack of change in LKYN metabolites in plasma suggests a relatively slow metabolism of LKYN and no or little feed‐back effect of LKYN on its synthesis. The therapeutic potential of LKYN in stroke and epilepsy should be explored in future studies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jakob Møller Hansen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Danish Knowledge Center on Headache Disorders, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Dalia Abou-Kassem
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Koldbro Hansted
- Danish Headache Center, Glostrup Research Institute, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kumari Ubhayasekera
- Analytical Chemistry and Neurochemistry, Department of Chemistry - BMC, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Jonas Bergquist
- Analytical Chemistry and Neurochemistry, Department of Chemistry - BMC, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology and MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Inger Jansen-Olesen
- Danish Headache Center, Glostrup Research Institute, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Danish Knowledge Center on Headache Disorders, Rigshospitalet-Glostrup, Denmark
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24
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Subchronic N-acetylcysteine Treatment Decreases Brain Kynurenic Acid Levels and Improves Cognitive Performance in Mice. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10020147. [PMID: 33498402 PMCID: PMC7909398 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The tryptophan (Trp) metabolite kynurenic acid (KYNA) is an α7-nicotinic and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist. Elevated brain KYNA levels are commonly seen in psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases and may be related to cognitive impairments. Recently, we showed that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) inhibits kynurenine aminotransferase II (KAT II), KYNA's key biosynthetic enzyme, and reduces KYNA neosynthesis in rats in vivo. In this study, we examined if repeated systemic administration of NAC influences brain KYNA and cognitive performance in mice. Animals received NAC (100 mg/kg, i.p.) daily for 7 days. Redox markers, KYNA levels, and KAT II activity were determined in the brain. We also assessed the effect of repeated NAC treatment on Trp catabolism using brain tissue slices ex vivo. Finally, learning and memory was evaluated with and without an acute challenge with KYNA's bioprecursor L-kynurenine (Kyn; 100 mg/kg). Subchronic NAC administration protected against an acute pro-oxidant challenge, decreased KYNA levels, and lowered KAT II activity and improved memory both under basal conditions and after acute Kyn treatment. In tissue slices from these mice, KYNA neosynthesis from Trp or Kyn was reduced. Together, our data indicate that prolonged treatment with NAC may enhance memory at least in part by reducing brain KYNA levels.
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25
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Jorratt P, Hoschl C, Ovsepian SV. Endogenous antagonists of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor in schizophrenia. Alzheimers Dement 2020; 17:888-905. [PMID: 33336545 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic neuropsychiatric brain disorder that has devastating personal impact and rising healthcare costs. Dysregulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission has been implicated in the pathobiology of the disease, attributed largely to the hypofunction of the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor. Currently, there is a major gap in mechanistic analysis as to how endogenous modulators of the NMDA receptors contribute to the onset and progression of the disease. We present a systematic review of the neurobiology and the role of endogenous NMDA receptor antagonists in animal models of schizophrenia, and in patients. We discuss their neurochemical origin, release from neurons and glia with action mechanisms, and functional effects, which might contribute toward the impairment of neuronal processes underlying this complex pathological state. We consider clinical evidence suggesting dysregulations of endogenous NMDA receptor in schizophrenia, and highlight the pressing need in future studies and emerging directions, to restore the NMDA receptor functions for therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Jorratt
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic.,Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 10, Czech Republic
| | - Cyril Hoschl
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic.,Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 10, Czech Republic
| | - Saak V Ovsepian
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic.,Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 10, Czech Republic
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26
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Metabolomics approach revealed robust changes in amino acid and biogenic amine signatures in patients with schizophrenia in the early course of the disease. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13983. [PMID: 32814830 PMCID: PMC7438522 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71014-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to evaluate how schizophrenia (SCH) spectrum disorders and applied antipsychotic (AP) treatment affect serum level of amino acids (AAs) and biogenic amines (BAs) in the early course of the disorder. We measured 21 different AAs and 10 BAs in a sample of antipsychotic (AP)-naïve first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients (n = 52) at baseline, after 0.6-year as well as after 5.1-year treatment compared to control subjects (CSs, n = 37). Serum levels of metabolites were determined with AbsoluteIDQ p180 kit using flow injection analysis tandem mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography technique. Elevated level of taurine and reduced level of proline and alpha-aminoadipic acid (alpha-AAA) were established as metabolites with significant change in AP-naïve FEP patients compared to CSs. The following 0.6-year treatment restored these alterations. However, further continuous 5.1-year AP treatment changed the metabolic profile substantially. Significantly elevated levels of asparagine, glutamine, methionine, ornithine and taurine, alongside with decreased levels of aspartate, glutamate and alpha-AAA were observed in the patient group compared to CSs. These biomolecule profile alterations provide further insights into the pathophysiology of SCH spectrum disorders and broaden our understanding of the impact of AP treatment in the early stages of the disease.
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27
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Activation of alpha7 nicotinic and NMDA receptors is necessary for performance in a working memory task. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:1723-1735. [PMID: 32162104 PMCID: PMC7313359 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05495-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Working memory deficits are present in schizophrenia (SZ) but remain insufficiently resolved by medications. Similar cognitive dysfunctions can be produced acutely in animals by elevating brain levels of kynurenic acid (KYNA). KYNA's effects may reflect interference with the function of both the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) and the glycineB site of the NMDA receptor. OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to examine, using pharmacological tools, the respective roles of these two receptor sites on performance in a delayed non-match-to-position working memory (WM) task (DNMTP). METHODS DNMTP consisted of 120 trials/session (5, 10, and 15 s delays). Rats received two doses (25 or 100 mg/kg, i.p.) of L-kynurenine (KYN; bioprecursor of KYNA) or L-4-chlorokynurenine (4-Cl-KYN; bioprecursor of the selective glycineB site antagonist 7-Cl-kynurenic acid). Attenuation of KYN- or 4-Cl-KYN-induced deficits was assessed by co-administration of galantamine (GAL, 3 mg/kg) or PAM-2 (1 mg/kg), two positive modulators of α7nAChR function. Reversal of 4-Cl-KYN-induced deficits was examined using D-cycloserine (DCS; 30 mg/kg), a partial agonist at the glycineB site. RESULTS Both KYN and 4-Cl-KYN administration produced dose-related deficits in DNMTP accuracy that were more severe at the longer delays. In KYN-treated rats, these deficits were reversed to control levels by GAL or PAM-2 but not by DCS. In contrast, DCS eliminated performance deficits in 4-Cl-KYN-treated animals. CONCLUSIONS These experiments reveal that both α7nAChR and NMDAR activity are necessary for normal WM accuracy. They provide substantive new support for the therapeutic potential of positive modulators at these two receptor sites in SZ and other major brain diseases.
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28
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Martin KS, Azzolini M, Lira Ruas J. The kynurenine connection: how exercise shifts muscle tryptophan metabolism and affects energy homeostasis, the immune system, and the brain. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 318:C818-C830. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00580.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Tryptophan catabolism through the kynurenine pathway generates a variety of bioactive metabolites. Physical exercise can modulate kynurenine pathway metabolism in skeletal muscle and thus change the concentrations of select compounds in peripheral tissues and in the central nervous system. Here we review recent advances in our understanding of how exercise alters tryptophan-kynurenine metabolism in muscle and its subsequent local and distal effects. We propose that the effects of kynurenine pathway metabolites on skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, immune system, and the brain suggest that some of these compounds could qualify as exercise-induced myokines. Indeed, some of the more recently discovered biological activities for kynurenines include many of the best-known benefits of exercise: improved energy homeostasis, promotion of an anti-inflammatory environment, and neuroprotection. Finally, by considering the tissue expression of the different membrane and cytosolic receptors for kynurenines, we discuss known and potential biological activities for these tryptophan metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle S. Martin
- Molecular and Cellular Exercise Physiology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michele Azzolini
- Molecular and Cellular Exercise Physiology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jorge Lira Ruas
- Molecular and Cellular Exercise Physiology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Stockholm, Sweden
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29
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Walczak K, Wnorowski A, Turski WA, Plech T. Kynurenic acid and cancer: facts and controversies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:1531-1550. [PMID: 31659416 PMCID: PMC7162828 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03332-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is an endogenous tryptophan metabolite exerting neuroprotective and anticonvulsant properties in the brain. However, its importance on the periphery is still not fully elucidated. KYNA is produced endogenously in various types of peripheral cells, tissues and by gastrointestinal microbiota. Furthermore, it was found in several products of daily human diet and its absorption in the digestive tract was evidenced. More recent studies were focused on the potential role of KYNA in carcinogenesis and cancer therapy; however, the results were ambiguous and the biological activity of KYNA in these processes has not been unequivocally established. This review aims to summarize the current views on the relationship between KYNA and cancer. The differences in KYNA concentration between physiological conditions and cancer, as well as KYNA production by both normal and cancer cells, will be discussed. The review also describes the effect of KYNA on cancer cell proliferation and the known potential molecular mechanisms of this activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walczak
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Artur Wnorowski
- Department of Biopharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Waldemar A Turski
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Plech
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
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30
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Stone TW. Does kynurenic acid act on nicotinic receptors? An assessment of the evidence. J Neurochem 2020; 152:627-649. [PMID: 31693759 PMCID: PMC7078985 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
As a major metabolite of kynurenine in the oxidative metabolism of tryptophan, kynurenic acid is of considerable biological and clinical importance as an endogenous antagonist of glutamate in the central nervous system. It is most active as an antagonist at receptors sensitive to N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) which regulate neuronal excitability and plasticity, brain development and behaviour. It is also thought to play a causative role in hypo-glutamatergic conditions such as schizophrenia, and a protective role in several neurodegenerative disorders, notably Huntington's disease. An additional hypothesis, that kynurenic acid could block nicotinic receptors for acetylcholine in the central nervous system has been proposed as an alternative mechanism of action of kynurenate. However, the evidence for this alternative mechanism is highly controversial, partly because at least eight earlier studies concluded that kynurenic acid blocked NMDA receptors but not nicotinic receptors and five subsequent, independent studies designed to repeat the results have failed to do so. Many studies considered to support the alternative 'nicotinic' hypothesis have been based on the use of analogs of kynurenate such as 7-chloro-kynurenic acid, or putatively nicotinic modulators such as galantamine, but a detailed analysis of the pharmacology of these compounds suggests that the results have often been misinterpreted, especially since the pharmacology of galantamine itself has been disputed. This review examines the evidence in detail, with the conclusion that there is no confirmed, reliable evidence for an antagonist activity of kynurenic acid at nicotinic receptors. Therefore, since there is overwhelming evidence for kynurenate acting at ionotropic glutamate receptors, especially NMDAR glutamate and glycine sites, with some activity at GPR35 sites and Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptors, results with kynurenic acid should be interpreted only in terms of these confirmed sites of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W. Stone
- Institute for Neuroscience and PsychologyUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowG12 8QQUK
- Present address:
Kennedy InstituteNDORMSUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7FYUK
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31
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Tanaka M, Bohár Z, Vécsei L. Are Kynurenines Accomplices or Principal Villains in Dementia? Maintenance of Kynurenine Metabolism. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25030564. [PMID: 32012948 PMCID: PMC7036975 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25030564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, 50 million people suffer from dementia, a group of symptoms affecting cognitive and social functions, progressing severely enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) accounts for most of the dementia cases. Pathological and clinical findings have led to proposing several hypotheses of AD pathogenesis, finding a presence of positive feedback loops and additionally observing the disturbance of a branch of tryptophan metabolism, the kynurenine (KYN) pathway. Either causative or resultant of dementia, elevated levels of neurotoxic KYN metabolites are observed, potentially upregulating multiple feedback loops of AD pathogenesis. Memantine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamatergic receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, which belongs to one of only two classes of medications approved for clinical use, but other NMDAR modulators have been explored so far in vain. An endogenous KYN pathway metabolite, kynurenic acid (KYNA), likewise inhibits the excitotoxic NMDAR. Besides its anti-excitotoxicity, KYNA is a multitarget compound that triggers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Modifying the KYNA level is a potential multitarget strategy to normalize the disturbed KYN pathway and thus to alleviate juxtaposing AD pathogeneses. In this review, the maintenance of KYN metabolism by modifying the level of KYNA is proposed and discussed in search for a novel lead compound against the progression of dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Tanaka
- MTA-SZTE, Neuroscience Research Group, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Neurology, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Bohár
- MTA-SZTE, Neuroscience Research Group, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Neurology, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Vécsei
- MTA-SZTE, Neuroscience Research Group, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Neurology, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, H-6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-62-545-351
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32
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Kynurenines and the Endocannabinoid System in Schizophrenia: Common Points and Potential Interactions. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24203709. [PMID: 31619006 PMCID: PMC6832375 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24203709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia, which affects around 1% of the world’s population, has been described as a complex set of symptoms triggered by multiple factors. However, the exact background mechanisms remain to be explored, whereas therapeutic agents with excellent effectivity and safety profiles have yet to be developed. Kynurenines and the endocannabinoid system (ECS) play significant roles in both the development and manifestation of schizophrenia, which have been extensively studied and reviewed previously. Accordingly, kynurenines and the ECS share multiple features and mechanisms in schizophrenia, which have yet to be reviewed. Thus, the present study focuses on the main common points and potential interactions between kynurenines and the ECS in schizophrenia, which include (i) the regulation of glutamatergic/dopaminergic/γ-aminobutyric acidergic neurotransmission, (ii) their presence in astrocytes, and (iii) their role in inflammatory mechanisms. Additionally, promising pharmaceutical approaches involving the kynurenine pathway and the ECS will be reviewed herein.
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Bodkin JA, Coleman MJ, Godfrey LJ, Carvalho CM, Morgan CJ, Suckow RF, Anderson T, Ongur D, Kaufman MJ, Lewandowski KE, Siegel AJ, Waldstreicher E, Grochowski CM, Javitt DC, Rujescu D, Hebbring S, Weinshilboum R, Rodriguez SB, Kirchhoff C, Visscher T, Vuckovic A, Fialkowski A, McCarthy S, Malhotra D, Sebat J, Goff DC, Hudson JI, Lupski JR, Coyle JT, Rudolph U, Levy DL. Targeted Treatment of Individuals With Psychosis Carrying a Copy Number Variant Containing a Genomic Triplication of the Glycine Decarboxylase Gene. Biol Psychiatry 2019; 86:523-535. [PMID: 31279534 PMCID: PMC6745274 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increased mutational burden for rare structural genomic variants in schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental disorders has so far not yielded therapies targeting the biological effects of specific mutations. We identified two carriers (mother and son) of a triplication of the gene encoding glycine decarboxylase, GLDC, presumably resulting in reduced availability of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor coagonists glycine and D-serine and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor hypofunction. Both carriers had a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder. METHODS We carried out two double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor augmentation of psychotropic drug treatment in these two individuals. Glycine was used in the first clinical trial, and D-cycloserine was used in the second one. RESULTS Glycine or D-cycloserine augmentation of psychotropic drug treatment each improved psychotic and mood symptoms in placebo-controlled trials. CONCLUSIONS These results provide two independent proof-of-principle demonstrations of symptom relief by targeting a specific genotype and explicitly link an individual mutation to the pathophysiology of psychosis and treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Dost Ongur
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Marc J. Kaufman
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Arthur J. Siegel
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Daniel C. Javitt
- Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY.,Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY
| | - Dan Rujescu
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Scott Hebbring
- Center for Human Genetics, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Donald C. Goff
- Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY.,Department of Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - James I. Hudson
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Joseph T. Coyle
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Uwe Rudolph
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Deborah L. Levy
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Rodríguez-Sánchez M, Escartín-Pérez RE, Leyva-Gómez G, Avalos-Fuentes JA, Paz-Bermúdez FJ, Loya-López SI, Aceves J, Erlij D, Cortés H, Florán B. Blockade of Intranigral and Systemic D3 Receptors Stimulates Motor Activity in the Rat Promoting a Reciprocal Interaction among Glutamate, Dopamine, and GABA. Biomolecules 2019; 9:E511. [PMID: 31547016 PMCID: PMC6843834 DOI: 10.3390/biom9100511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In vivo activation of dopamine D3 receptors (D3Rs) depresses motor activity. D3Rs are widely expressed in subthalamic, striatal, and dendritic dopaminergic inputs into the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). In vitro studies showed that nigral D3Rs modulate their neurotransmitter release; thus, it could be that these changes in neurotransmitter levels modify the discharge of nigro-thalamic neurons and, therefore, motor behavior. To determine how the in vitro responses correspond to the in vivo responses, we examined the effect of intra-nigral and systemic blockade of D3Rs in the interstitial content of glutamate, dopamine, and GABA within the SNr using microdialysis coupled to motor activity determinations in freely moving rats. Intranigral unilateral blockade of D3R with GR 103,691 increased glutamate, dopamine, and GABA. Increments correlated with increased ambulatory distance, non-ambulatory activity, and induced contralateral turning. Concomitant blockade of D3R with D1R by perfusion of SCH 23390 reduced the increase of glutamate; prevented the increment of GABA, but not of dopamine; and abolished behavioral effects. Glutamate stimulates dopamine release by NMDA receptors, while blockade with kynurenic acid prevented the increase in dopamine and, in turn, of GABA and glutamate. Finally, systemic administration of D3R selective antagonist U 99194A increased glutamate, dopamine, and GABA in SNr and stimulated motor activity. Blockade of intra-nigral D1R with SCH 23390 prior to systemic U 99194A diminished increases in neurotransmitter levels and locomotor activity. These data highlight the pivotal role of presynaptic nigral D3 and D1R in the control of motor activity and help to explain part of the effects of the in vivo administration of D3R agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Rodríguez-Sánchez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Rodrigo Erick Escartín-Pérez
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Eating, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, FES Iztacala, Ciudad de México 54090, Mexico.
| | - Gerardo Leyva-Gómez
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | - José Arturo Avalos-Fuentes
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Francisco Javier Paz-Bermúdez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Santiago Iván Loya-López
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - Jorge Aceves
- Departamento de Fisiología, Biofísica y Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
| | - David Erlij
- Department of Physiology SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Hernán Cortés
- Laboratorio de Medicina Genómica, Departamento de Genética, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Ciudad de México 14389, Mexico.
| | - Benjamín Florán
- Departamento de Farmacología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
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The ‘Yin’ and the ‘Yang’ of the kynurenine pathway: excitotoxicity and neuroprotection imbalance in stress-induced disorders. Behav Pharmacol 2019; 30:163-186. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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36
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Han Q, Yang C, Lu J, Zhang Y, Li J. Metabolism of Oxalate in Humans: A Potential Role Kynurenine Aminotransferase/Glutamine Transaminase/Cysteine Conjugate Beta-lyase Plays in Hyperoxaluria. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:4944-4963. [PMID: 30907303 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190325095223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Hyperoxaluria, excessive urinary oxalate excretion, is a significant health problem worldwide. Disrupted oxalate metabolism has been implicated in hyperoxaluria and accordingly, an enzymatic disturbance in oxalate biosynthesis can result in the primary hyperoxaluria. Alanine glyoxylate aminotransferase-1 and glyoxylate reductase, the enzymes involving glyoxylate (precursor for oxalate) metabolism, have been related to primary hyperoxalurias. Some studies suggest that other enzymes such as glycolate oxidase and alanine glyoxylate aminotransferase-2 might be associated with primary hyperoxaluria as well, but evidence of a definitive link is not strong between the clinical cases and gene mutations. There are still some idiopathic hyperoxalurias, which require a further study for the etiologies. Some aminotransferases, particularly kynurenine aminotransferases, can convert glyoxylate to glycine. Based on biochemical and structural characteristics, expression level, subcellular localization of some aminotransferases, a number of them appear able to catalyze the transamination of glyoxylate to glycine more efficiently than alanine glyoxylate aminotransferase-1. The aim of this minireview is to explore other undermining causes of primary hyperoxaluria and stimulate research toward achieving a comprehensive understanding of underlying mechanisms leading to the disease. Herein, we reviewed all aminotransferases in the liver for their functions in glyoxylate metabolism. Particularly, kynurenine aminotransferase-I and III were carefully discussed regarding their biochemical and structural characteristics, cellular localization, and enzyme inhibition. Kynurenine aminotransferase-III is, so far, the most efficient putative mitochondrial enzyme to transaminate glyoxylate to glycine in mammalian livers, might be an interesting enzyme to look over in hyperoxaluria etiology of primary hyperoxaluria and should be carefully investigated for its involvement in oxalate metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Han
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228. China
| | - Cihan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228. China
| | - Jun Lu
- Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine Affiliated Haikou People's Hospital, Haikou, Hainan 570208. China
| | - Yinai Zhang
- Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine Affiliated Haikou People's Hospital, Haikou, Hainan 570208. China
| | - Jianyong Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061. United States
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Investigating KYNA production and kynurenergic manipulation on acute mouse brain slice preparations. Brain Res Bull 2019; 146:185-191. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Rossi F, Miggiano R, Ferraris DM, Rizzi M. The Synthesis of Kynurenic Acid in Mammals: An Updated Kynurenine Aminotransferase Structural KATalogue. Front Mol Biosci 2019; 6:7. [PMID: 30873412 PMCID: PMC6400995 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2019.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a bioactive compound that is produced along the kynurenine pathway (KP) during tryptophan degradation. In a few decades, KYNA shifted from being regarded a poorly characterized by-product of the KP to being considered a main player in many aspects of mammalian physiology, including the control of glutamatergic and cholinergic synaptic transmission, and the coordination of immunomodulation. The renewed attention being paid to the study of KYNA homeostasis is justified by the discovery of selective and potent inhibitors of kynurenine aminotransferase II, which is considered the main enzyme responsible for KYNA synthesis in the mammalian brain. Since abnormally high KYNA levels in the central nervous system have been associated with schizophrenia and cognitive impairment, these inhibitors promise the development of novel anti-psychotic and pro-cognitive drugs. Here, we summarize the currently available structural information on human and rodent kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs) as the result of global efforts aimed at describing the full complement of mammalian isozymes. These studies highlight peculiar features of KATs that can be exploited for the development of isozyme-specific inhibitors. Together with the optimization of biochemical assays to measure individual KAT activities in complex samples, this wealth of knowledge will continue to foster the identification and rational design of brain penetrant small molecules to attenuate KYNA synthesis, i.e., molecules capable of lowering KYNA levels without exposing the brain to the harmful withdrawal of KYNA-dependent neuroprotective actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franca Rossi
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Miggiano
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Davide M Ferraris
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Menico Rizzi
- Biochemistry and Biocrystallography Unit, DSF-Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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Dandia A, Arya K, Dhaka N. Multistep Microwave Assisted Solvent Free Green Chemical Synthesis of 2,7-Dihydro-3H-Pyridazino[3′,4′:4,5]Indolo[3,2-c]Quinoline-3,13(12H)-Dione. JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.3184/030823406776330666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A novel class of biologically active compound 2,7-dihydro-3 H-pyridazino[3′,4′:4,5]indolo[3,2- c]quinoline-3,13(12 H)-dione (10a–b)has been achieved efficiently and quickly under solvent free conditions in an open vessel microwave system. The multi step one pot synthesis involved the reaction of 8,9,10,11-tetrahydro-6 H-indolo[3,2- c]quinoline-6,7(5 H)-dione (6a–d) and glyoxylic acid monohydrate followed by cyclocondensation with hydrazine hydrate under microwave irradiation. The synthesis of 8,9,10,11-tetrahydro-6 H-indolo[3,2- c]quinoline-6,7(5 H)-dione(6a–d) has also been described from the reaction of (2-oxo-1,2-dihydroquinolin-4-yl)hydrazine with 1,3-cyclohexanedione in the absence of any solvent/catalyst/strong acid or solid support using microwaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anshu Dandia
- Department of Chemistry University of Rajasthan, Jaipur – 302 004, India
| | - Kapil Arya
- Department of Chemistry University of Rajasthan, Jaipur – 302 004, India
| | - Nidhi Dhaka
- Department of Chemistry University of Rajasthan, Jaipur – 302 004, India
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Linking phencyclidine intoxication to the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway: Therapeutic implications for schizophrenia. Neurochem Int 2019; 125:1-6. [PMID: 30731185 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Phencyclidine (PCP) is a dissociative anesthetic that induces psychotic symptoms and neurocognitive deficits in rodents similar to those observed in schizophrenia patients. PCP administration in healthy human subjects induces schizophrenia-like symptoms such as positive and negative symptoms, and a range of cognitive deficits. It has been reported that PCP, ketamine, and related drugs such as N-methyl-D-aspartate-type (NMDA) glutamate receptor antagonists, induce behavioral effects by blocking neurotransmission at NMDA receptors. Further, NMDA receptor antagonists reproduce specific aspects of the symptoms of schizophrenia. Neurochemical models based on the actions of PCP are well established, with increased focus on glutamatergic dysfunction as a basis for both symptoms and cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. On the other hand, the endogenous NMDA receptor antagonist, kynurenic acid (KYNA), which is a product of tryptophan-kynurenine pathway (KP) metabolism, is involved in schizophrenia pathogenesis. KYNA concentrations are elevated in the prefrontal cortex and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with schizophrenia. KYNA elevation affects neurotransmitter release in a similar manner to that of psychotomimetic agents such as PCP, underscoring a molecular basis of its involvement in schizophrenia pathophysiology. This review will highlight the relationship between PCP and KP metabolites based on evidence that both exogenous and endogenous NMDA receptor antagonists are involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, and discuss our current understanding of the mechanisms underlying dysfunctional glutamatergic signaling as potential therapeutic targets for schizophrenia.
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Pawlowski T, Malyszczak K, Inglot M, Zalewska M, Radkowski M, Laskus T, Pawlak D. Alterations in the metabolism of tryptophan in patients with chronic hepatitis C six months after pegylated interferon-α 2a treatment. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2018; 97:1-7. [PMID: 29990677 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risk of depression and suicide in patients on interferon remains also after the treatment, the pathogenesis of which is still unclear. We aimed to determine the influence of the PEG-IFN-α2a on tryptophan metabolism along the kynurenine pathway during treatment and up to 6 months after the end of treatment. METHODS We evaluated 101 patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with PEG-IFN-α2a, and 40 controls, so as to determine the activation of indolamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and tryptophan (TRP) and their metabolites' concentrations/levels: kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and anthranilic acid (AA). The subjects were evaluated before and after weeks 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, as well as 6 months after the end of the treatment. RESULTS In the group of patients treated 24 weeks, six months after the end of treatment IDO activity was significantly higher compared to baseline (69.5 vs 57.2 β = 0.21 P = 0.000); TRP concentration was significantly lower compared to baseline (30.0 vs 35.6 β=-0.21 P = 0.001); KYNA concentration was significantly higher compared to baseline (37.2 nmol/L vs 29.4 nmol/L β = 0.22 P = 0.02), and AA concentration was significantly higher compered to baseline (51.0 nmol/L vs 38.4 nmol/L β = 0.22 P = 0.05) In the group of patients treated 48 weeks six months, after the end of treatment both the IDO activity and KYNA concentration were significantly higher compared to baseline (respective values - IDO: 78.8 vs 56.2 β = 0.14 P = 0.02; KYNA: 39.2 nmol/L vs 27.0 nmol/L β = 0.26 P = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS This is the first report of a prolonged activation of IDO six months after the end of PEG-IFN-α2a treatment. The clinical significance of the finding can be implicated in the pathophysiology of depressive episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Pawlowski
- Division of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteura street 10 50-367, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Malyszczak
- Division of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteura street 10 50-367, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Inglot
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immune Deficiencies, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Zalewska
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology and Acquired Immune Deficiencies, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Radkowski
- Department of Immunopathology of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Warsaw Medical University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Laskus
- Department of Immunopathology of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Warsaw Medical University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dariusz Pawlak
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
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Metcalfe AJ, Koliamitra C, Javelle F, Bloch W, Zimmer P. Acute and chronic effects of exercise on the kynurenine pathway in humans – A brief review and future perspectives. Physiol Behav 2018; 194:583-587. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Villar-Briones A, Aird SD. Organic and Peptidyl Constituents of Snake Venoms: The Picture Is Vastly More Complex Than We Imagined. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:E392. [PMID: 30261630 PMCID: PMC6215107 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10100392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Small metabolites and peptides in 17 snake venoms (Elapidae, Viperinae, and Crotalinae), were quantified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Each venom contains >900 metabolites and peptides. Many small organic compounds are present at levels that are probably significant in prey envenomation, given that their known pharmacologies are consistent with snake envenomation strategies. Metabolites included purine nucleosides and their bases, neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, guanidino compounds, carboxylic acids, amines, mono- and disaccharides, and amino acids. Peptides of 2⁻15 amino acids are also present in significant quantities, particularly in crotaline and viperine venoms. Some constituents are specific to individual taxa, while others are broadly distributed. Some of the latter appear to support high anabolic activity in the gland, rather than having toxic functions. Overall, the most abundant organic metabolite was citric acid, owing to its predominance in viperine and crotaline venoms, where it chelates divalent cations to prevent venom degradation by venom metalloproteases and damage to glandular tissue by phospholipases. However, in terms of their concentrations in individual venoms, adenosine, adenine, were most abundant, owing to their high titers in Dendroaspis polylepis venom, although hypoxanthine, guanosine, inosine, and guanine all numbered among the 50 most abundant organic constituents. A purine not previously reported in venoms, ethyl adenosine carboxylate, was discovered in D. polylepis venom, where it probably contributes to the profound hypotension caused by this venom. Acetylcholine was present in significant quantities only in this highly excitotoxic venom, while 4-guanidinobutyric acid and 5-guanidino-2-oxopentanoic acid were present in all venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Villar-Briones
- Division of Research Support, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan.
| | - Steven D Aird
- Division of Faculty Affairs and Ecology and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan.
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Kynurenine pathway in depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 90:16-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Sas K, Szabó E, Vécsei L. Mitochondria, Oxidative Stress and the Kynurenine System, with a Focus on Ageing and Neuroprotection. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23010191. [PMID: 29342113 PMCID: PMC6017505 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23010191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, the potential causes of ageing are discussed. We seek to gain insight into the main physiological functions of mitochondria and discuss alterations in their function and the genome, which are supposed to be the central mechanisms in senescence. We conclude by presenting the potential modulating role of the kynurenine pathway in the ageing processes. Mitochondrial dynamics are supposed to have important physiological roles in maintaining cell homeostasis. During ageing, a decrease in mitochondrial dynamics was reported, potentially compromising the function of mitochondria. Mitochondrial biogenesis not only encompasses mitochondrial dynamics, but also the regulation of transcription and translation of genes, and mitochondria are supposed to play a prominent role in cell death during senescence. Defects in the mtDNA replication machinery and failure in the repair of mtDNA might result in the accumulation of mutations, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and bioenergetic failure of the cell. The role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the ageing processes is widely acknowledged. Exaggerated oxidative damage to mDNA is supposed to take place during senescence, including single-nucleotide base alterations, nucleotide base pair alterations, chain breaks and cross linkage. A broad repertoire for the repair of DNA faults has evolved, but they do not function efficiently during senescence. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is an enzyme that assists in DNA repair, i.e., it participates in the repair of single-stranded DNA nicks, initiating base excision repair (BER). In the case of extensive DNA damage, PARP-1 becomes overactivated and rapidly depletes the intracellular NAD+ and ATP pools. This results in a profound energy loss of the cell and leads to cell dysfunction, or even cell death. Alterations in the kynurenine system have been linked with ageing processes and several age-related disorders. The kynurenine pathway degrades tryptophan (TRP) to several metabolites, among others kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and quinolinic acid (QUIN). The end product of the route is NAD+. The first metabolic reaction is mediated by TRP-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) or indolamine-2,3-dioxygenases (IDO), the latter being induced by inflammation, and it is thought to have a significant role in several disorders and in ageing. Research is currently focusing on the KYN pathway, since several intermediates possess neuro- and immunoactive properties, and hence are capable of modulating the activity of certain brain cells and inflammatory responses. During ageing, and in many age-associated disorders like obesity, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, insulin resistance and neurodegenerative diseases, low-grade, sustained inflammation and upregulation of IDO have been reported. However, TRP downstream catabolites create a negative feedback loop by weakening the activated immune system through several actions, including a decline in the Th1 response and an enhancement of Th2-type processes. The broad actions of the KYN-intermediates in brain excitation/inhibition and their role in regulating immune responses may provide the possibility of modifying the pathological processes in an array of age-associated diseases in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katalin Sas
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Elza Szabó
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - László Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Szent-Györgyi Clinical Center, University of Szeged, Semmelweis u. 6, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
- MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Semmelweis u. 6, 6725 Szeged, Hungary.
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Deora GS, Kantham S, Chan S, Dighe SN, Veliyath SK, McColl G, Parat MO, McGeary RP, Ross BP. Multifunctional Analogs of Kynurenic Acid for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: Synthesis, Pharmacology, and Molecular Modeling Studies. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:2667-2675. [PMID: 28825789 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the synthesis and pharmacological investigation of analogs of the endogenous molecule kynurenic acid (KYNA) as multifunctional agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Synthesized KYNA analogs were tested for their N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor binding, mGluR5 binding and function, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, interference with the amyloid β peptide (Aβ) fibrillation process, and protection against Aβ-induced toxicity in transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans strain GMC101 expressing full-length Aβ42. Molecular modeling studies were also performed to predict the binding modes of most active compounds with NMDAR, mGluR5, and Aβ42. Among the synthesized analogs, 3c, 5b, and 5c emerged as multifunctional compounds that act via multiple anti-AD mechanisms including AChE inhibition, free radical scavenging, NMDA receptor binding, mGluR5 binding, inhibition of Aβ42 fibril formation, and disassembly of preformed Aβ42 fibrils. Interestingly, 5c showed protection against Aβ42-induced toxicity in transgenic C. elegans strain GMC101. Moreover, 5b and 5c displayed high permeability in an MDR1-MDCKII cell-based model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Compound 3b emerged with specific activity as a micromolar AChE inhibitor, however it had low permeability in the BBB model. This study highlights the opportunities that exist to develop analogs of endogenous molecules from the kynurenine pathway for therapeutic uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girdhar Singh Deora
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Srinivas Kantham
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Stephen Chan
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Satish N. Dighe
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Suresh K. Veliyath
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Gawain McColl
- The
Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Marie-Odile Parat
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Ross P. McGeary
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Benjamin P. Ross
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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Erhardt S, Pocivavsek A, Repici M, Liu XC, Imbeault S, Maddison DC, Thomas MAR, Smalley JL, Larsson MK, Muchowski PJ, Giorgini F, Schwarcz R. Adaptive and Behavioral Changes in Kynurenine 3-Monooxygenase Knockout Mice: Relevance to Psychotic Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2017; 82:756-765. [PMID: 28187857 PMCID: PMC5812460 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kynurenine 3-monooxygenase converts kynurenine to 3-hydroxykynurenine, and its inhibition shunts the kynurenine pathway-which is implicated as dysfunctional in various psychiatric disorders-toward enhanced synthesis of kynurenic acid, an antagonist of both α7 nicotinic acetylcholine and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors. Possibly as a result of reduced kynurenine 3-monooxygenase activity, elevated central nervous system levels of kynurenic acid have been found in patients with psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia. METHODS In the present study, we investigated adaptive-and possibly regulatory-changes in mice with a targeted deletion of Kmo (Kmo-/-) and characterized the kynurenine 3-monooxygenase-deficient mice using six behavioral assays relevant for the study of schizophrenia. RESULTS Genome-wide differential gene expression analyses in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of these mice identified a network of schizophrenia- and psychosis-related genes, with more pronounced alterations in cerebellar tissue. Kynurenic acid levels were also increased in these brain regions in Kmo-/- mice, with significantly higher levels in the cerebellum than in the cerebrum. Kmo-/- mice exhibited impairments in contextual memory and spent less time than did controls interacting with an unfamiliar mouse in a social interaction paradigm. The mutant animals displayed increased anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze and in a light/dark box. After a D-amphetamine challenge (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), Kmo-/- mice showed potentiated horizontal activity in the open field paradigm. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results demonstrate that the elimination of Kmo in mice is associated with multiple gene and functional alterations that appear to duplicate aspects of the psychopathology of several neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Erhardt
- Dept of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ana Pocivavsek
- Department of Psychiatry, Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mariaelena Repici
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Xi-Cong Liu
- Dept of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Imbeault
- Dept of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel C Maddison
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Marian AR Thomas
- Department of Psychiatry, Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joshua L Smalley
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Markus K Larsson
- Dept of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Flaviano Giorgini
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Robert Schwarcz
- Department of Psychiatry, Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Ingle SV, Joshi KA. Exploring Quantum Chemical Descriptors and Molecular Docking Approach for Designing Antagonist Search Model for the Glycine/NMDA Receptor Site. ChemistrySelect 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.201702291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Snehal V. Ingle
- Department of Chemistry; Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga; Mumbai 400019 India, Phone/Fax: +91-22-33612614/+91-22-33611020
| | - Kaustubh A. Joshi
- Department of Chemistry; Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga; Mumbai 400019 India, Phone/Fax: +91-22-33612614/+91-22-33611020
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Pierozan P, Biasibetti-Brendler H, Schmitz F, Ferreira F, Pessoa-Pureur R, Wyse ATS. Kynurenic Acid Prevents Cytoskeletal Disorganization Induced by Quinolinic Acid in Mixed Cultures of Rat Striatum. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:5111-5124. [PMID: 28840509 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0749-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a neuroactive metabolite of tryptophan known to modulate a number of mechanisms involved in neural dysfunction. Although its activity in the brain has been widely studied, the effect of KYNA counteracting the actions of quinolinic acid (QUIN) remains unknown. The present study aims at describing the ability of 100 μM KYNA preventing cytoskeletal disruption provoked by QUIN in astrocyte/neuron/microglia mixed culture. KYNA totally preserved cytoskeletal organization, cell morphology, and redox imbalance in mixed cultures exposed to QUIN. However, KYNA partially prevented morphological alteration in isolated primary astrocytes and failed to protect the morphological alterations of neurons caused by QUIN exposure. Moreover, KYNA prevented QUIN-induced microglial activation and upregulation of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba-1) and partially preserved tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level in mixed cultures. TNF-α level was also partially preserved in astrocytes. In addition to the mechanisms dependent on redox imbalance and microglial activation, KYNA prevented downregulation of connexin-43 and the loss of functionality of gap junctions (GJs), preserving cell-cell contact, cytoskeletal organization, and cell morphology in QUIN-treated cells. Furthermore, the toxicity of QUIN targeting the cytoskeleton of mixed cultures was not prevented by the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist MK-801. We suggest that KYNA protects the integrity of the cytoskeleton of mixed cultures by complex mechanisms including modulating microglial activation preventing oxidative imbalance and misregulated GJs leading to disrupted cytoskeleton in QUIN-treated cells. This study contributed to elucidate the molecular basis of KYNA protection against QUIN toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pierozan
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, CEP, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Helena Biasibetti-Brendler
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Felipe Schmitz
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Ferreira
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Regina Pessoa-Pureur
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, CEP, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Laboratório de Citoesqueleto, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Angela T S Wyse
- Laboratório de Neuroproteção e DoençasMetabólicas, Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de CiênciasBásicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, CEP, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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50
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Plitman E, Iwata Y, Caravaggio F, Nakajima S, Chung JK, Gerretsen P, Kim J, Takeuchi H, Chakravarty MM, Remington G, Graff-Guerrero A. Kynurenic Acid in Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Schizophr Bull 2017; 43:764-777. [PMID: 28187219 PMCID: PMC5472151 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbw221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is an endogenous antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors that is derived from astrocytes as part of the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan degradation. Evidence suggests that abnormal KYNA levels are involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. However, this has never been assessed through a meta-analysis. A literature search was conducted through Ovid using Embase, Medline, and PsycINFO databases (last search: December 2016) with the search terms: (kynuren* or KYNA) and (schizophreni* or psychosis). English language studies measuring KYNA levels using any method in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls (HCs) were identified. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated to determine differences in KYNA levels between groups. Subgroup analyses were separately performed for nonoverlapping participant samples, KYNA measurement techniques, and KYNA sample source. The influences of patients' age, antipsychotic status (%medicated), and sex (%male) on study SMDs were assessed through a meta-regression. Thirteen studies were deemed eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis. In the main analysis, KYNA levels were elevated in the patient group. Subgroup analyses demonstrated that KYNA levels were increased in nonoverlapping participant samples, and centrally (cerebrospinal fluid and brain tissue) but not peripherally. Patients' age, %medicated, and %male were each positively associated with study SMDs. Overall, KYNA levels are increased in patients with schizophrenia, specifically within the central nervous system. An improved understanding of KYNA in patients with schizophrenia may contribute to the development of novel diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Plitman
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yusuke Iwata
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Fernando Caravaggio
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Shinichiro Nakajima
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Geriatric Mental Health Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Ku Chung
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Philip Gerretsen
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Geriatric Mental Health Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Julia Kim
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hiroyoshi Takeuchi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan;,Schizophrenia Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - M. Mallar Chakravarty
- Cerebral Imaging Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada;,Departments of Psychiatry and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Gary Remington
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Schizophrenia Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Campbell Institute Research Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ariel Graff-Guerrero
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Geriatric Mental Health Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada;,Campbell Institute Research Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
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